JOURNEY OF AN ORDINARY NINJA

Chapter-11: Date with Tsunade

Akira's Estate Training Field

Akira stood in the middle of the training field behind his estate, the late afternoon sun casting a golden glow over the area. Lady Mochizuki was standing nearby, her arms crossed and her usual authoritative expression softened slightly by a small smile.

"Akira," Lady Mochizuki began, her tone calm yet firm, "you've taken your first step into the academy. It's a significant milestone, but you need to remember, you only have four years before you graduate and take your place in the ninja world as a genin. During this time, you must push yourself beyond your limits."

Akira nodded attentively, waiting for her to continue.

"In the academy, you'll learn the basics of being a ninja," she said. "But that won't be enough. In the evenings, I'll train you in the Senju style Taijutsu. By the time you graduate, I'll ensure your Taijutsu skills rival those of a chunin. Additionally, I expect you at the Senju compound training grounds every morning before sunrise. There, I'll teach you Kenjutsu—my original style—and we'll also work on enhancing your Ninjutsu. Furthermore, I want you to master an additional elemental nature beyond your wind and water chakra. This will give you a significant advantage as a ninja."

Akira looked surprised. "But sensei," he said hesitantly, "I thought mastering a secondary element that I'm not predisposed to is something genin or chunin focus on. I'm still in the academy!"

Lady Mochizuki let out a small chuckle, her sharp eyes narrowing in amusement. "Akira," she began, "a true ninja always has something up their sleeve. If you rely solely on what you're predisposed to, your enemies will adapt and counter you easily. By learning a new element, you'll not only broaden your capabilities but also gain an edge when it matters most. Besides, the academy will eventually require you to learn the basics of a D-rank jutsu from an element you're not predisposed to. It's better you get a head start."

Akira tilted his head, intrigued. "Sensei, you also mentioned Kenjutsu. I didn't know you could use Kenjutsu," he said, recalling the information he had read in the bingo book. "I read your profile in the bingo book, but there wasn't any mention of it."

Lady Mochizuki's lips curved into a sly smile as she shook her head. "It's good that you're doing your research, Akira," she said, "but remember this—never trust the bingo book or any written intel completely. A ninja must always hide their true strength. Even if you reveal part of your abilities, never show your full hand. Always keep your opponent guessing."

Her expression turned serious as she knelt to Akira's level, ruffling his pink hair. "Yes, I am a master of a unique Kenjutsu style," she admitted. "It's a technique I developed myself after years of studying and mastering other styles. I'll teach you everything I know and help you develop your own unique sword style, one that reflects your strengths."

"Do you really think I can do that, sensei?" Akira asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity and doubt.

Lady Mochizuki gave him a firm yet encouraging nod. "I don't just think, Akira—I know. With dedication and effort, you'll become the strongest Kenjutsu user this world has ever seen. But," she added, standing up and placing her hands on her hips, "you must work hard every day. The physical exercises I've made you endure over the past two years were just the beginning. Starting tomorrow, your true training begins. Basic Kenjutsu, advanced Taijutsu, and Ninjutsu work will all be part of your daily routine. And don't forget your studies in the academy."

Akira nodded determinedly, his heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, sensei," he said earnestly.

"Good," Lady Mochizuki said with a satisfied smile. "Now, get some rest. Meet me at the Senju training grounds at 4:30 AM sharp tomorrow. Don't be late."