Chapter 14: Cherry Blossom Ambush
Sarutobi Hiruzen studied the Thunder Breathing scroll Kagenori had presented, his initial satisfaction giving way to genuine astonishment. This wasn't merely adequate—it was extraordinary.
From his experienced perspective, the first five sword forms reached B-rank level at minimum, while the final two techniques approached A-rank classification. As a complete system, Thunder Breathing unquestionably qualified as A-rank.
Such a comprehensive combat system was incredibly precious.
Tucking the scroll away, Sarutobi regarded Kagenori with evident approval. "On behalf of Konoha, I thank you for contributing Thunder Breathing. What reward would you like?"
Kagenori shook his head humbly. "Contributing to Konoha is honor enough. This is my reward."
Sarutobi's satisfaction deepened. The boy's talent was undeniable—mastering lightning-nature transformation and these sword forms at his age. With proper guidance, he'd undoubtedly become a jōnin.
More importantly, his loyalty seemed absolute. Few would surrender an A-rank system so selflessly.
Any lingering doubts about resentment vanished. Why would someone bearing grudges offer such a treasure?
Sarutobi decided then: Kagenori showed promise worth nurturing. His mixed heritage might even prove useful regarding the Uchiha situation.
Approaching, he patted Kagenori's shoulder. "Train safely from now on. Work hard—don't disappoint me."
Kagenori bowed slightly, hiding his expression. So Sarutobi intends to use me? Perfect.
The more value Sarutobi placed in him, the smoother his plans would proceed.
Meeting the Hokage's gaze with determined eyes, he vowed, "I won't let you down, Lord Hokage!"
After further encouragement, Kagenori took his leave. Outside the Hokage Building, he breathed deeply in relief.
For the foreseeable future, his path was clear: train and grow stronger. During this peaceful period, no significant events would yield witness points.
He was essentially bankrupt points-wise. He almost suspected the system of intentional design—the standard sword costing 10 points, each chakra replenishment 30, three replenishments exactly 100 total.
Gazing at the sunset, he reaffirmed his resolve: I must grow stronger!
Five days later, the academy closed for break. Yesterday, Kagenori and Kushina had agreed to meet at his former training spot—he'd described its beauty, particularly during cherry blossom season.
Pink petals carpeted Konoha's streets. Their meeting time was 1:00 PM.
Thrilled about her first outing, Kushina departed immediately after lunch with Mito. She planned to arrive early and surprise Kagenori by jumping out from hiding.
Humming cheerfully, she headed toward their meeting place. Imagining them walking beneath cherry blossom showers brought a smile to her face.
Suddenly, she halted. Her smile vanished as she glared ahead.
Beside a cherry tree stood one of her frequent tormentors from the academy. The boy glared defiantly, clearly intending trouble.
From behind him emerged an older boy—a head taller, wearing a Konoha forehead protector. A genin.
The genin placed hands on his younger brother's shoulders, both smirking at Kushina. Crossing his arms, the genin swaggered forward. "So you're the one making my brother cry."
Kushina pointed accusingly. "He starts everything! He's just a coward!"
The genin glanced at his brother, who looked away guiltily. Turning back, the genin proudly tapped his forehead protector. "I'm a genin—pretty cool, right? Time to teach bullies like you a lesson!"
He cracked his knuckles ominously.
Kushina's eyes narrowed. Without hesitation, she leaped into the trees, fleeing.
The genin pursued instantly, kunai already in hand. One flew past Kushina's side, pinning her sleeve to a tree trunk.
Shock coursed through her—he'd used a real blade!
Springing from the trunk, she launched herself at the genin instead. Caught off-guard by her counterattack, he took her fist squarely and tumbled to the ground.
Before she could recover, smoke poofed—a substitution log clattered where he'd fallen.
The genin landed behind her, chopping her neck and kicking her back. She collapsed painfully.
Grabbing her hair, he yanked her head up. "Didn't even notice the substitution? Just a stupid brat!" He twisted the crimson locks. "This disgusting red hair—such an eyesore!"
The younger brother laughed mockingly. "Serves you right!"
Kushina sobbed helplessly.
When Kagenori arrived, this was the scene that greeted him: Kushina held by her hair, weeping.
Rage roared through him, white-hot and blinding.
The younger brother spotted him. "Brother! The traitor's here! He's with her!"
The genin cracked his neck, grinning viciously. "Perfect—I'll teach this scum too! Always wanted to!"
"Kagenori, run!" Kushina screamed.
But Kagenori's mind had already blanked with fury. His notched standard sword appeared in his hand. Body lowering into a crouch, lightning began crackling across his form.