When Fujimoto Tōma withdrew from the seal space, a faint smile lingered on his face.
Everything had gone exactly as planned.
Before, he had deliberately avoided linking the Nine-Tails' perception with Naruto's own. The risk was obvious. If Kurama acted with malice and fed Naruto false warnings, the result would be disastrous. But after seeing their current relationship with his own eyes, Tōma finally relaxed.
Even if Kurama chose not to help, it would not deliberately sabotage Naruto.
And if it helped once, there would be a second time. Then a third.
Over time, Naruto would be safer, and the bond between host and tailed beast would deepen naturally. Two benefits, one move. The only real risk had already been removed.
Perfect.
"Alright," Tōma said, patting Naruto's shoulder. "You can get up."
"That's it?" Naruto stood up and clenched his fist. "I don't feel any different."
"Of course you don't," Tōma replied flatly. "Who do you think I am?"
Naruto laughed. "I trust you! It just felt way faster than before."
"Removing something is easier than fine-tuning it," Tōma said, not bothering to elaborate.
"Oh. That makes sense." Naruto nodded seriously, even if he only half understood.
After getting dressed, Naruto looked at him and suddenly grinned. "Hey, Tōma! I'll treat you to Ichiraku Ramen!"
"…Sure," Tōma said after a moment's thought. He had just gotten back and probably should have eaten at home, but skipping one meal would not kill him.
"Um… Tōma."
Naruto hesitated.
"What is it?"
"That's not like you," Tōma added. Naruto being unsure about something felt unusual.
"You've helped me so much," Naruto said earnestly. "But I don't know how to repay you."
For Naruto, treating someone to ramen was already a big deal. Even so, he felt it was not enough. Not even close.
"Repay me?" Tōma blinked. "I didn't help you so you'd owe me anything."
"But that feels wrong," Naruto said stubbornly. "If there's something I can do for you, anything at all, I'll do it!"
Tōma studied him for a moment, then nodded slowly. He thought for a bit, then lightly smacked his fist into his palm.
"There is something."
Naruto's eyes lit up. "What is it?!"
"Get stronger," Tōma said calmly. "That's the best way to help me."
"…That doesn't count!" Naruto protested. "That's my own thing!"
"How doesn't it?" Tōma replied, his tone turning serious. "Someday, I'll face enemies I can't deal with alone. When that happens, I'll need help. So Naruto, all you need to do is become strong enough to stand beside me when that day comes."
Naruto froze.
Then his eyes shone.
"I get it!" He grinned and pumped his fist. "Don't worry, Tōma! I'll work even harder! When that time comes, I'll definitely help you, dattebayo!"
"I believe you," Tōma said with a nod.
If Naruto could not help him when the time came, then things would truly be grim.
"Hey," Naruto laughed awkwardly, scratching his head.
"Wasn't I getting ramen?" Tōma reminded him.
"Oh! Right! Ichiraku! Ramen!" Naruto took off running, humming happily as he went.
He had done everything he wanted to do today. He had even found a way to repay Tōma. Of course he was in a good mood.
After parting with Naruto, Tōma went to find Yamanaka Ino and told her about Tsunade's plan to teach her medical ninjutsu.
"Really?!" Ino stared at him, eyes sparkling. "The Hokage herself?!"
"Of course," Tōma said with a smile. "I asked her personally."
"That's amazing!" Ino leaned in and kissed his cheek without hesitation, completely natural about it.
They were not in public, and it was hardly the first time.
Tōma then mentioned that Haruno Sakura and Hyūga Hinata would be joining as well, hinting that Ino should inform them.
Ino paused, then narrowed her eyes. "So it's not just me?"
She jabbed a finger at him. "You tricked me into kissing you. How are you making that up to me?"
Tōma pretended to think. "How about I kiss you back?"
"…That works." Ino smirked, and they shared a look before laughing together.
She was not upset. If Tōma had wanted to chase them himself, he would have gained plenty of goodwill and opportunities. Asking her to pass the message instead meant something else entirely.
That alone was enough.
Tōma kissed her cheek properly this time, then began explaining his thoughts.
His plan was simple. Learn everything Tsunade could offer, especially her medical experience. That was her real treasure. If possible, learn her techniques as well. Monstrous strength. The Strength of a Hundred Seal.
"Can I really learn those?" Ino asked, hesitating. "Knowing the theory doesn't mean I can do it."
"That's why I'm here," Tōma said, raising an eyebrow. "I'll help you step by step."
Ino nodded immediately. If he said it was possible, then it was.
"Don't neglect the Yamanaka techniques either," Tōma added. "You've mastered the core ones, but there are still variations you haven't fully explored."
"I know," Ino said seriously. "I'm almost there."
"Good," Tōma replied. "Once you've integrated both medical ninjutsu and your clan techniques, you can start developing something truly your own. Like direct mental attacks."
Ino's gaze sharpened.
That path would hurt. Mental backlash was unavoidable. Learning to trade minimal damage for maximum impact would be painful.
But she did not hesitate.
Catching up to Tōma was impossible. She had accepted that long ago. Helping him, though? That was something she could aim for.
"I'll go tell Sakura and Hinata," Ino said at last. "They'll be thrilled."
"Go ahead."
Tōma watched her leave, then turned away.
He had places to check. That strange feeling he had noticed during the last mission had not left his mind.
Maybe something interesting was waiting for him.