New Naruto Fanfic: Naruto: Adopted By Tsunade (Patreon)

Synopsis:
Change your fate, and you can earn rewards.
Natsume, who holds the Sacred Ring of Fate, is adopted by Tsunade after awakening the Wood Release, and thus begins to change the fates of countless people.

PS: This book focuses on light-heartedness, invincibility, daily life, romance, and multiple heroines. Rest assured, the main character is not a eunuch.

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Chapter 1: The Flow of Fate Has Already Changed

"Happy birthday, Kabuto."

Natsume placed a palm-sized cake in front of the little boy. "The director is too busy to see you right now, but she asked me to apologize on her behalf."

"Thank you."

Kabuto adjusted his glasses, his face calm beyond his years. "There was a big commotion in Konoha recently. A lot of people were affected. The director is a medical ninja—it's normal for her to be busy."

"Eat up."

Natsume sat across from him, staring at his white hair. A thought crossed his mind.

If the gender were swapped, this would have amassed over ten thousand fans.

White-haired lolis are a lot of people's thing.

Maybe white-haired shota boys are someone's hobby too.

You can never underestimate people's tastes.

Though, it's all a bit much.

"You're seven this year, right?" Natsume asked.

"Yeah." Kabuto swallowed his cake before answering.

Natsume's mind worked quickly.

Although it's never stated outright, Kabuto should be meeting Shimura Danzo and Orochimaru around this age.

Thanks to his exceptional medical talent, he catches their eye and gets recruited, beginning his training as a ninja spy.

But now, with Natsume having transmigrated, he's been reminding Kabuto never to reveal his medical talent.

The flow of fate has already changed.

So why isn't there a reward yet?

Natsume glanced subconsciously at his wrist.

There was a divine object only he could see: the Sacred Ring of Fate.

As long as Natsume altered the fate nodes of characters in the story, he'd get a reward.

Fate nodes were the most crucial turning points in a character's life.

Kabuto's first fate node was meeting Shimura Danzo and Orochimaru.

"I'm done eating!"

Kabuto wiped his mouth, stood up, and asked, "I'm going to practice medical ninjutsu. What about you?"

Although Natsume told him to hide his talent, Kabuto never slacked on his medical ninjutsu.

His medical talent was truly strong—it would be a waste not to use it.

Without meeting Orochimaru, if Kabuto followed the normal path, he might have become the next Tsunade.

On the other hand, Natsume had zero talent.

No medical talent, and his ninja skills were terrible too.

[Ding!]

[Because of your actions, Yakushi Kabuto's fate has changed. You gain 100 Fate Points.]

Natsume froze, then was overwhelmed with joy.

Haha! My golden finger finally arrived!

"Go ahead and practice. Don't worry about me."

Natsume watched Kabuto leave, then turned into his room.

A hundred Fate Points might not seem like much, but it was already quite a lot.

According to the Sacred Ring of Fate's rules, each character's fate node could only yield up to 100 Fate Points.

The amount depended on how important the character was to the story.

But with enough fate nodes, you could keep farming points from the same character.

Natsume was seven—an orphan of the Third Shinobi World War, adopted by Yakushi Nonou.

In the orphanage, the only story character whose fate he could alter was Kabuto.

After three years of influence, they'd become close friends.

Otherwise, Kabuto would never have listened and hidden his talent.

Natsume spun the Sacred Ring. A light screen appeared in his view.

[Current Fate Points: 100]

[Fate Shop is now open]

[Newbie Special: Because you have Senju blood, you can awaken Wood Release for just 10% of the cost.]

Natsume didn't hesitate and immediately bought the special.

Ninety Fate Points disappeared.

A warm sensation flowed through his body.

So comfortable.

Natsume exhaled, feeling refreshed.

With Wood Release, he finally had a foothold in the ninja world.

But exchanging for a talent wasn't easy.

There were Wood Release jutsu in the Fate Shop, but gaining Fate Points was hard.

Natsume set his sights on Konoha.

The simplest way was to directly reveal his Wood Release talent.

Wood Release had a special status in Konoha.

It represented the invincible First Hokage, Senju Hashirama.

He'd likely be taken in by the Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, and taught.

Less likely, he'd end up in Root, brainwashed by Shimura Danzo.

But Natsume thought there was a third way.

Tsunade.

As the Senju Princess, she wouldn't ignore a second Wood Release user after her grandfather.

If he was under Tsunade's protection, he'd be safe for a long time and could learn Wood Release from her for free.

A win-win.

He'd win twice.

After the Second Shinobi War, Tsunade left Konoha and wandered.

But she never became a rogue ninja.

She still loved Konoha.

Otherwise, she wouldn't become the Fifth Hokage later.

The original work never says if she came back mid-wandering.

But now, with the Nine-Tails incident just past, and with Minato and Kushina's funeral coming up, she would probably return.

Natsume could only gamble.

He couldn't reach Tsunade, but Yakushi Nonou could.

Konoha, thanks to Tsunade, had a solid medical system—medical teams and hospitals.

Tsunade once taught in the medical squad.

Yakushi Nonou was one of her students; their relationship was decent.

Natsume planned to reveal his Wood Release to Nonou, who'd then contact Tsunade.

Of course, this would require skill.

Now, it was time for his performance.

…

Night.

After a busy day, Yakushi Nonou returned to the orphanage.

With the Nine-Tails incident, Konoha Hospital was full, and medical ninjas were in short supply.

She had to help out too.

Though tired, Nonou still had to make sure the kids slept.

First, she went to Kabuto's room.

The light was still on.

She knocked. "Reading?"

"Director, you're back?" Kabuto beamed. "I'm reading 'Beginner Ninja Medical Cases'—the one you gave me."

"Sleep early."

Nonou smiled too.

Kabuto learned slowly but worked hard.

Obedient and sensible.

Of all the children, he was her favorite.

"I'll just finish one more chapter, half an hour."

Kabuto bargained, holding up a finger.

"You're impossible. Okay, read, I'll come back later."

Nonou sighed, mostly out of affection and satisfaction.

She closed the door and walked to the next room.

If Kabuto was the obedient good kid, Natsume was the overly mature one.

Only seven, but he spoke and acted like an adult.

Because of this, he'd become the boss of the orphanage kids and saved Nonou a lot of trouble.

Nonou opened the door and raised her eyebrows.

His face was pale, hair messy, clean clothes smudged with dirt, sleeves torn as if by thorns, revealing red, swollen skin.

"Director."

Natsume grinned sheepishly. "I just tripped and fell."

"Tell me the truth."

Nonou looked him over, serious, then knelt and grabbed his arm.

"Ow, that hurts."

Natsume hissed reflexively.

"Now you know it hurts?"

Nonou placed her hand over the wound; a gentle green glow appeared.

Warm energy soothed his arm. Natsume sighed inwardly—medical ninjutsu was amazing.

"All done. Be careful next time."

Nonou fixed him with her dark gray eyes. "So, what really happened?"

Natsume hesitated, then said, "Director, I think I awakened some kind of special talent."

Awakened? Talent?

Nonou was an exceptional ninja. She immediately thought of Kekkei Genkai—bloodline techniques.

Under certain circumstances, they could awaken on their own.

"Show me," she asked eagerly.

If he had a Kekkei Genkai, he could become a ninja.

For an orphan, that was a great path forward.

Natsume held out his hand. Chakra surged, and several thorny vines grew from his palm.

But his control was poor. After a few seconds, the vines scattered, leaving new scratches on his arm.

"Wood Release?!"

Nonou's eyes widened, her emotions complex.

Chapter 2: The Man Who Wants to Be Hokage

Nonou was stunned, even ignoring Natsume's new wounds.

There were countless Kekkei Genkai in the ninja world, but Wood Release was different.

The First Hokage, Senju Hashirama, unified the world with it and built a new era.

Konoha's "leaf" referred to Wood Release.

Since Hashirama, no one had possessed it—not even among the Senju.

Nonou never expected to see Wood Release herself.

"Director?" Natsume called.

"Have you told anyone else about this?"

She exhaled deeply, then healed his new wound.

Nonou wasn't naive.

Before running the orphanage, she'd been an elite in Konoha's intelligence division and had been forced to serve under Danzo.

She understood what Wood Release meant.

"You're the first to know."

Natsume watched her, relieved—just as he expected.

After three years together, they were like mother and son.

Nonou would never hand him to Danzo.

She wasn't loyal—that's why Danzo later wanted her dead.

She knew too much without being loyal.

"Good."

Nonou patted his head, frowning, clearly troubled.

Keeping it secret couldn't last forever.

And having Wood Release but not using it would be a waste.

If Danzo got him, Natsume would become nothing but a tool.

So, report to the Third Hokage?

Nonou considered her options.

Natsume knew it was time to step in. "Director, what jutsu is this?"

"Wood Release. It was used by the First Hokage."

Nonou didn't hide it. "If you can use it, your ancestors must have intermarried with the Senju."

The Senju were once a great clan, but, by Hashirama's ideals, they stopped intermarrying and blended into Konoha. Now, they barely existed.

Only Tsunade remained publicly.

"It's really Wood Release?"

Natsume feigned shock, then got excited. "Director, do you know any Senju? If I can find out which ancestor, maybe I can learn who my parents were."

Nonou paused.

Natsume was a war orphan, young, with many lost memories.

His suggestion made sense—he might learn who his parents were.

And he reminded her: there was someone more suitable than Sarutobi Hiruzen—

Tsunade.

The last of the Senju.

Most importantly, Nonou knew Tsunade's character. She'd treat Natsume well.

"I'll handle this."

Nonou opened the closet and got him clean clothes. "Take a bath and get some rest."

"Okay."

Natsume nodded, taking the clothes.

He'd done what he needed.

Now, it was up to Nonou.

If not, he'd just have to play along with Sarutobi Hiruzen.

Going by Yamato's treatment later, it wasn't so bad.

Provided he showed the Will of Fire.

He was good at that sort of thing.

A half-baked ideology, really.

He even thought he could trick Sarutobi Hiruzen himself.

…

…

A week passed.

In a quiet corner of the orphanage—

"Natsume, happy birthday."

Kabuto brought him a small cake.

The tables had turned.

Natsume smiled and accepted it.

Their birthdays were only a week apart—a coincidence.

"Natsume, what's your birthday wish? Or what do you want to do when you grow up?" Kabuto was curious.

In three years together, Natsume had always seemed mysterious.

Especially last year, when he seriously told Kabuto, "Don't reveal your medical talent, or disaster will strike—for you and the director."

It sounded like a prophecy.

Kabuto was baffled.

But out of trust—and a strange feeling—he hid his true talent and played average.

"What do I want to do?"

Natsume thought for a moment, then waved his hand. "I'll be the man who becomes Hokage."

Meaning the Fifth Hokage, Tsunade.

If we're going big, let's go all the way.

Some might say she's too old.

But she's beautiful.

If she's beautiful, age doesn't matter—hell, even species doesn't matter.

Right, like the Ninja Ancestor who bang Kaguya.

So jealous!

"Hokage, huh?"

Kabuto wasn't surprised.

Thanks to Sarutobi Hiruzen's great PR, he was a hero to all kids—the strongest Hokage.

To be Hokage was every kid's dream.

Just like wanting to be an astronaut or scientist in the real world.

Only when they grew up would they learn about disappointment.

"Yep! Hokage!"

Natsume finished his cake, threw an arm around Kabuto's shoulder. "Someday, I'll be Hokage, and you'll be my advisor. We'll make Konoha great again!"

If he wasn't worried about scaring Kabuto, he'd add, "I laugh at Sarutobi for being foolish, Danzo for being reckless—today's world has only us as true heroes."

He had his reasons.

Kabuto had limitless potential; recruiting him early was a huge win.

A true all-rounder—couldn't miss out.

"Deal!" said Kabuto, fired up by Natsume's encouragement.

"Natsume!"

Yakushi Nonou's voice sounded.

Natsume jumped.

Crap, if she heard his chuunibyou speech, he'd die of embarrassment.

He turned, and froze.

It wasn't just Nonou—there was another woman.

She wore a green coat, had smooth blonde hair, a mature and alluring figure.

There's a saying: men like slightly plump women.

And this woman was the best of that type.

Just her legs, matched with black or white stockings, could kill.

Natsume looked up, meeting her amused brown eyes.

"Lady Tsunade, the kid was just joking, please don't take it seriously," Nonou hurried to explain.

"No worries."

Tsunade glanced at him. "So this is Natsume? Quite a smart kid."

Nonou nodded. "Yes, he's the one I told you about."

Tsunade approached. "You want to be Hokage?"

Natsume gave a bright smile. "Because I want to protect everyone."

It was a fake smile, but he knew this would hit Tsunade hard.

"Why?"

Tsunade paused, then said in a strange tone. "People who want to be Hokage are all idiots—willing to die for others."

"I've seen war. I want to bring peace."

Natsume gave the standard answer. "If I become Hokage, I can stop war and bring peace."

Truthfully, he just wanted to survive.

Tsunade paused, remembering her dead brother, Nawaki. He used to say the same things.

But he died in war.

"Such a big mouth for a little kid."

Tsunade laughed, rubbing his head.

Natsume was speechless.

You know what men hate most?

Being called small!

Someday, he'd show her what "big" meant.

Tsunade collected herself. "Show me your Wood Release."

Natsume held out his hand—thorns grew from his palm.

He didn't know Wood Release yet, so he relied on instinct.

Thankfully, Nonou had taught him chakra control.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have been able to show anything.

Tsunade's face turned serious—it was real.

She'd grown up with Hashirama and knew Wood Release well.

Natsume's display wasn't genjutsu or mimicry.

Chapter 3: Tsunade, Rich and Generous

"What an unexpected surprise," Tsunade smiled, considering what to do with Natsume.

If she left him in the orphanage, Danzo might get him—he'd be ruined.

As for Sarutobi Hiruzen, Tsunade had her grievances.

Why not take him herself?

Tsunade had returned to Konoha for Minato and Kushina's funeral, but also to take Shizune.

During the Second Shinobi War, Shizune was just born.

So Tsunade hadn't taken her.

Now, Shizune had graduated and showed good medical talent.

With no one in Konoha, Tsunade planned to take her along.

Now, adding Natsume seemed fine too.

According to Nonou, he was mature and sensible.

Tsunade wouldn't need to babysit—just teach him Wood Release.

Since Hashirama's death, Wood Release had disappeared for decades.

As the only Senju left, Tsunade felt responsible.

Maybe the world would remember the terror of Wood Release and the Senju.

"You can use Wood Release, so you're of Senju blood."

Tsunade softened. "You shouldn't stay in the orphanage—come back to the Senju. Will you come with me?"

For some reason, a thought flashed through Natsume's mind:

Are you my Master now?

"I'm one of the Legendary Sannin," Tsunade said, puffing her chest. "Stick with me, you'll never go hungry."

Natsume glanced—yep, he wouldn't starve.

He nodded. "I'm willing."

Tsunade beamed, pinching his cheek teasingly. "Smart choice, handsome."

"What about me?" Kabuto asked.

Natsume was his best friend; he didn't want him to leave.

"Kabuto, don't be rude," Nonou said quickly. "Natsume just won't live here, you'll still see him often."

Kabuto was disappointed, but didn't argue.

Natsume hesitated, then decided to stick to the plan.

Later, he'd let Kabuto accidentally reveal his talent, so Tsunade would take him as a disciple.

If he did it now, it'd be too much of a coincidence and would make Nonou suspicious.

"Kabuto, I'll visit you every day," Natsume smiled.

Kabuto cheered up.

He was smart—he knew it was a good thing for Natsume to go with Tsunade.

"Nonou, I'll take him first," Tsunade said, bending down and holding out her hand. Her impressive figure loomed over Natsume as she leaned forward.

Natsume immediately felt an overwhelming presence, like a deep abyss opening before him.

He thought of two words: rich and generous.

"Let's go."

Tsunade didn't wait, grabbed his hand, and led him out.

"Natsume, remember to visit!" Kabuto called.

"I will!"

Natsume waved back.

Kabuto was a valuable ally—he wouldn't give up their friendship.

…

Leaving the orphanage, Tsunade looked north.

The Hokage Rock came into view, faces of all the Hokage carved into it.

Natsume stood on tiptoe, trying to see what she was looking at.

But he was too short.

Tsunade noticed and smiled.

Natsume was only seven, with a pretty face—every move was adorable.

"I'm looking at the Hokage Rock," she said, resisting the urge to ruffle his hair. "The bottom left is where the Hokage live, and the Senju clan's compound. If you want to know your ancestry, the answer is there."

Tsunade led Natsume north to a remote house.

Her face showed nostalgia.

"This is where my grandparents lived, where I grew up."

She hadn't been back in a long time.

Her grandmother was the first Nine-Tails jinchuriki, Uzumaki Mito.

Because of her special status, she'd always lived in seclusion.

But that was long ago.

Natsume looked around.

Honestly?

Pretty average.

Just a normal Japanese-style house.

Tsunade opened the door. It was spotless—someone cleaned regularly.

Actually, there were even ANBU protecting it.

No one could get close without Tsunade.

If Natsume hadn't been with her, he'd have been caught.

"Nothing here," Tsunade muttered, finding the fridge empty. She shook her head.

She'd wanted to give Natsume milk—kids need it to grow.

Now he'd have to settle for water.

"Sit on the couch, I'll find something," she said, handing him a glass of water and heading upstairs.

Soon she returned with two scrolls.

"Can you read?"

"The director taught me."

"This is the Senju family register. See if any names are familiar."

She sat across from him, long white legs crossed, watching him with interest.

It really was a nice view.

Like admiring a beautiful white cat—you want to pet it.

Natsume finished the scroll.

Aside from Hashirama and Tobirama, all the names were unfamiliar.

"I don't remember the past," he said, shaking his head. "None of the names ring a bell."

"If you can't remember, just let it go," Tsunade said, feeling sorry for his downcast look.

A truly pitiful, yet sensible kid.

"From now on, you'll learn ninjutsu from me."

She opened the other scroll. "I don't know Wood Release myself, but my grandfather left detailed notes—enough for you to learn."

"Thank you, Lady Tsunade," Natsume said gratefully.

For real this time.

As long as he learned Wood Release, even if he couldn't reach Hashirama's level, being as strong as Yamato would be great.

Yamato was mocked for landscaping, but he was really an elite jonin.

"Don't call me 'Lady'—when we're alone, call me sister."

Tsunade was actually a little nervous—afraid he'd refuse.

They'd only just met, so it shouldn't have felt so close.

But Natsume was cute, and his words had won her over.

"Big sister Tsunade!" Natsume replied without hesitation.

Such a great sugar mama resource—calling her sister was a bargain.

Wait, Tsunade was more like a debt queen…

"Natsume, want to change your name? How about Natsuki?"

She'd already sat beside him, a pleasant fragrance wafting over.

Crap, I'm a replacement!

He hadn't expected this, even though he'd steered the conversation.

But he didn't like "Natsuki"—it reminded him of another Natsuki from "Initial D."

He used to envy that Natsuki had a generous uncle who always gave her money.

Only when he grew up did he realize that uncle was actually a sugar daddy.

And it became a meme.

Natsume shook his head. "Big sister Tsunade, Natsume is the only thing my parents left me. I don't want to change it."

Tsunade wasn't angry—she felt even more pity.

She patted his head. "Then we won't change it. What do you want for dinner? I'll go buy it."

"Barbecue!" Natsume replied instantly.

The orphanage barely scraped by with Nonou's help, so meals were simple.

Tsunade stood up. "You get familiar with the jutsu—I'll be back soon."

Natsume opened the scroll.

The first jutsu: Wood Clone.

Substitution jutsu was one of the basic three, but the Wood Clone was a bit more advanced.

You could swap yourself with a wooden clone when attacked.

Difficult, but just right for him now.

…

Meanwhile, in the Hokage's office—

After Minato's death, Sarutobi Hiruzen was forced to return as Hokage.

"This is bad."

Hiruzen puffed on his pipe, staring at a report, exhausted.

Taking power again was nice, but why couldn't things ever be calm?

Minato had just died, and now Kumogakure was causing trouble at the border.

"Lord Hokage."

An ANBU in a frog mask appeared. "Just now, Lady Tsunade took an orphan named Natsume to the First Hokage's old house."

"Natsume? Who's that?"

Hiruzen tapped his pipe. "What's his connection to Tsunade?"

"Natsume is an orphan from the Konoha orphanage. Today was the first time they met," ANBU replied.

Hiruzen blew a smoke ring.

First meeting, and already at Hashirama's house?

Definitely suspicious.

That boy must be special.

But compared to Tsunade, he didn't matter.

Hiruzen was thinking of something else:

Use Natsume to keep Tsunade in Konoha.

He'd already talked to his student, knew she was about to leave.

But Konoha was in crisis and needed Tsunade.

If she stayed, she'd help heal the village and deter enemies.

Chapter 4: Big Sis Will Give You a Check-up

Natsume didn't rush into training the Wood Release ninjutsu.

His foundations were too weak right now, so mistakes could easily happen.

If Tsunade were around, with her medical ninjutsu, as long as he wasn't blown to pieces, she could save him.

Natsume began learning about being a ninja from Yakushi Nonou last year.

But his talent wasn't great.

Up to now, he hadn't even learned the Three Basic Jutsu, only managing to pick up a chakra refining technique.

The door opened.

Natsume looked up and called out sweetly, "Sister Tsunade!"

Tsunade's usually refined, cool face immediately bloomed with a smile.

So adorable, so well-behaved.

She wanted to pinch his cheeks.

No one can resist something cute—not even her.

"We'll eat in a bit," Tsunade said, shaking the plastic bag in her hand, which contained takeout barbecue.

"Okay," Natsume replied obediently.

Tsunade turned and went into the kitchen, took out two sets of bowls and chopsticks, and four plates to wash.

After washing, she plated the barbecue and rice.

She actually knew how to cook herself.

She used to cook for her younger brother Nawaki, and it was amusing to see him put on a pained expression.

Mm, her cooking was the stuff of nightmares—in a word, inedible.

But she enjoyed cooking because seeing Nawaki try so hard to eat made her feel the bond between siblings.

Tsunade set the food on the table and took off her tea-green jacket.

Underneath, she wore a loose, sleeveless kimono-style top, exposing large areas of soft, fair skin.

"Natsume, come eat," Tsunade called, waving him over.

"Okay."

Natsume set down his ninjutsu scroll, looked up, and his eyes lit up at the sight of Tsunade.

Without her jacket, her graceful figure stood out even more.

So full and fair.

Natsume worried that the thin shirt might not hold out and could burst open.

He almost wanted to help her out himself.

"What are you spacing out for?" Tsunade raised her eyebrow and urged, "Come on!"

"Oh."

Natsume stood up, came to the table, sat down, sniffed the food, and exclaimed, "It smells so good!"

He even swallowed hard.

God knows how I've survived these past three years—natto, rice balls, instant noodles.

Even my old school cafeteria meals were better.

Now, finally getting to eat delicious barbecue—happiness, pure happiness!

Tsunade couldn't help but smile.

She rested her cheek in one hand, watching Natsume wolf down his food, finding it rather amusing.

The house hadn't felt this lively in a long time.

Tsunade's thoughts drifted, and when she came back to herself, she found Natsume staring straight at her.

"Sister Tsunade, why aren't you eating?"

"I'll eat now," Tsunade said gently as she picked up her chopsticks. "If you like it, eat more."

"Mm."

Natsume looked away.

Such a delicate face, that deep necklace, and those beautiful curves.

A feast for the eyes.

He immediately became a food goblin and polished off two big bowls.

"I'm full!" Natsume set down his bowl, feeling a little stuffed.

Tsunade nodded.

The kid could really eat.

But thinking of his time at the orphanage, a look of pity flashed in her light brown eyes.

He must not have had it easy.

"What are you doing?" Tsunade asked as she saw him take away the bowls.

"Washing the dishes," Natsume replied sensibly. "You worked hard buying food, Sis—let me do the dishes."

Tsunade froze for two seconds, then couldn't resist pinching his cheek.

She felt a surge of affection.

"Put them down, let Sis do it," Tsunade said, taking back the dishes. "You're still little. When I'm old, you can take care of me then."

"No way," Natsume said seriously. "Big Sis will never get old."

Tsunade's eyes widened.

She felt a little flustered.

"You sure know how to talk."

She tapped his forehead with her finger, saying, "Alright, go read your book. I'll quiz you later."

Not giving Natsume a chance to reply, she took the dishes to the kitchen.

Soon, the sound of running water was heard.

Natsume mentally applauded his own acting.

Honestly, this face was way too deceptive.

Plus, he was young—no one would suspect him, so it worked twice as well.

Before long, Tsunade left the kitchen and sat next to Natsume in the living room.

She glanced at his ninjutsu scroll. "Did Nonou teach you the basics of chakra?"

Natsume looked up. Thanks to his height, he could just see the view beneath her shoulders.

It was quite a sight.

"She did," Natsume answered.

"Good, then I won't need to cover the basics again."

After thinking for a bit, Tsunade took out a palm-sized test slip. "Since you've already refined chakra, let's test your chakra nature."

"Okay."

Natsume held the slip and channeled chakra into it. After ten seconds, the paper changed.

It became damp, as if soaked in water, but only halfway.

Then, the other half split down the middle, like snowflakes, scattering to the ground.

"As expected, water and earth," Tsunade explained. "Wood Release is a combination of water and earth chakra. In the future, focus on Wood Release, but you should also learn about water and earth techniques."

A qualified jonin should have more than one element.

For a simple reason.

Different elements have different uses and strengths and weaknesses.

The more you learn, the fewer weaknesses you have.

"Don't let anyone know about your Wood Release," Tsunade added after a moment.

Wood Release was extremely important to the Konoha.

Whether it was Hiruzen Sarutobi or Danzo Shimura, they'd both fight over it.

Tsunade wasn't afraid of them, but it would be a hassle.

"Understood," Natsume replied, thinking the same thing.

As a cunning old fox, keeping Wood Release hidden would give him an edge.

"Good boy," Tsunade beamed. "Now, Sis will give you a check-up. Don't resist, okay?"

No, Sis!

Natsume's eyes widened in innocent confusion.

What was happening?

Tsunade didn't explain. She reached out, pressing her hand to Natsume's abdomen through his clothes.

After a moment, she said, "You don't have much chakra."

Refining chakra usually has three steps:

Mix mental and physical energy into stamina.

Convert stamina into chakra.

Transfer chakra through your system to store it in your organs.

By checking Natsume's chakra, Tsunade could tell his limits.

At his current level, he could manage maybe two or three of the basic jutsu before getting exhausted.

So, in her training, Tsunade would hold back, to avoid overworking him and causing harm.

"You're still young, so it's normal to have little chakra. Just keep training and you'll be fine."

Tsunade picked up the ninjutsu scroll. "Let's start with the very basics: Wood Release - Three Basic Jutsu."

Natsume nodded.

He thought of Naruto Uzumaki. Comparing people only makes you angry.

At the same age, if Naruto weren't suppressing the Nine Tails, he'd already have tens of times more chakra.

…

By 9 p.m., Natsume was drenched in sweat and exhausted.

"That's enough, don't push yourself."

Tsunade scooped him up, and seeing him silently hold on, her maternal instincts kicked in and she hugged him tightly.

Her ample bosom enveloped him as she pressed him close, her warmth surrounding him completely.

Being too well-behaved makes others feel even more sorry for you.

Help! Sis, this isn't how you hug a kid. Are you trying to smother me?

He squirmed a bit, trying to free his face from the soft prison of her breasts.

Luckily, it only lasted three seconds.

Tsunade carried him to a room, set him down, and said, "Rest well. Tomorrow, you'll come with me to meet someone."

Chapter 5: The Head-Patting Big Sisters

Natsume slept soundly.

Probably because he was so tired yesterday, he went right into deep sleep as soon as he lay down.

He stretched, got dressed, and left his room.

"Natsume, are you awake?" came Tsunade's voice from the kitchen.

"I'm up," Natsume answered, heading to the kitchen door.

Tsunade was still wearing her sleeveless top, but now also wore an apron.

New outfit unlocked—Chef Tsunade.

No matter what she wore, she looked good. Natsume had always thought Tsunade's usual style was plain, but it couldn't hide that mature charm.

Like a ripe peach—full and tempting.

"Go wash up," Tsunade said without turning around.

Natsume went to the nearby bathroom and found a new toothbrush and plastic cup on the sink.

Clearly, she'd prepared them in advance.

He glanced back at Tsunade, feeling moved.

She might be bold and brash, but there's a gentle and caring side to her too.

After washing up, breakfast was ready.

Rice balls.

"Try it," Tsunade said, resting her chin on her hands and watching Natsume's reaction closely.

She clearly cared about his opinion.

Natsume hesitated, took a bite—and immediately struggled to keep a straight face.

He really wanted to give a good review, but his body betrayed him.

What on earth is this stuff?

Salty, sweet, and an indescribable flavor.

How do you even mess up rice balls this badly? That's a talent in itself.

"Not bad," Natsume replied with classic indirectness.

Tsunade laughed—she could tell he was just being polite.

But it was so familiar.

Nawaki used to say the same thing, eating everything even if it tasted awful.

Tsunade was a little lost in thought.

After a moment, her eyes crinkled with a smile. "Then I'll make it for you every day from now on."

Natsume paused.

He couldn't refuse.

Now was the time to win her favor.

So he nodded firmly. "Okay."

Tsunade's smile grew even brighter, and she picked up a rice ball herself.

Yeah, it really didn't taste great.

That made her like Natsume even more.

Anyone who could tolerate her cooking must see her as family.

Just like her little brother used to.

After breakfast, the two of them got ready to head out.

Tsunade put on her classic tea-green jacket again.

There was a big "Gamble" character on the back.

It was an iconic look, though her gambling skills weren't worth mentioning.

Tsunade glanced at Natsume. "Let's get you some new clothes."

"No need to spend the money," Natsume said, waving his hands in refusal.

"That won't do," Tsunade said, taking his hand and leading him out. "Your clothes don't match that cute face of yours."

Natsume froze.

Wow! Are you actually checking me out?

Since you're so honest, I won't hold back either.

Truthfully, I'm interested in your body too.

After leaving, they walked south and stopped in front of Konoha Hospital.

"Lady Tsunade!"

People greeted her constantly, all looking excited and admiring.

With the Three Legendary Sannin's reputation still intact, Tsunade, as the strongest medical ninja, was revered at the hospital.

Soon, they stopped in front of an office.

"Lady Tsunade!" The middle-aged woman at the desk stood up, surprised and excited.

"Shinmi, long time no see," Tsunade greeted her with a smile. "Where's Shizune?"

"She's observing surgery right now. Please wait, I'll go get her," Shinmi said, glancing at Natsume.

Such a beautiful child was rare.

But she didn't ask, simply leaving the office soon after.

"Natsume," Tsunade said, patting the sofa.

Natsume obediently sat next to her.

"You'll meet a girl named Shizune soon. She's a relative of an old friend of mine, very talented in medical ninjutsu. I'm thinking of taking her as my student."

Tsunade ruffled his hair. "You two should get along well."

"Mm, I will," Natsume replied. He'd already guessed they were here to see Shizune.

She was an important supporting character, always by Tsunade's side, calm, quiet, and serious.

As Hokage's assistant, she constantly looked after Tsunade.

Though a student, she worked like a maid and a mom.

Natsume was happy to meet Shizune. She was an important character and could provide him with fate points.

However, like Tsunade, she wasn't at a major plot point yet.

He couldn't do much for now.

There was also Yakushi Nonou, who'd raised him for three years.

According to the original story, she'd be sent by Danzo to be a spy in Iwagakure, and later killed after losing trust.

Because of Natsume's interference, Kabuto's fate changed, but Nonou's had not.

Unless she gained Danzo's trust, she was doomed.

To change her fate, he'd need to deal with Danzo and free her from his control.

Though he couldn't do much for now, Natsume already had a target in mind.

That dangerous and alluring villain—Orochimaru, whose life was about to reach a turning point as he defected from Konoha.

A few minutes later, Shinmi returned with a girl.

She had a gentle face and wore a nurse's uniform.

Upon seeing Tsunade, her calm expression turned excited.

"Lady Tsunade!"

Shizune was fourteen this year, and after graduating from the ninja academy, she stayed at the hospital waiting for Tsunade to return.

She naturally admired Tsunade, so her reaction was normal.

Natsume thought to himself: "Please, Miss, calm down."

"I've heard about your good work," Tsunade said calmly. "From today, you'll learn medical ninjutsu from me."

Shizune took a breath, calmed herself, and nodded. "Yes, Lady Tsunade."

"Shinmi, we'll leave for now—let's catch up another time," Tsunade said, taking Natsume's hand and heading out.

Shizune glanced curiously at the unfamiliar boy, then hurried after them.

"Shizune, this is Natsume—your junior apprentice," Tsunade explained as they walked.

Natsume, ever polite, looked up and called, "Sister Shizune!"

Shizune's heart skipped a beat at his cuteness.

She couldn't resist patting his head. "Let's take care of each other from now on."

Natsume was speechless.

Did I transmigrate to Head-Pat Village? Why does everyone love to pat my head?

Especially Tsunade.

Hmph, you like it so much, someday I'll give you something else to pat!

Tsunade took Natsume and Shizune to a clothing store, bought them each three sets of clothes, then headed home.

At the door, a short old man was waiting for them.

The Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi.

Chapter 6: The Considerate Good Child

"Tsunade, aren't you going to introduce us?" Hiruzen asked, wearing a kindly smile. With his excellent acting, he seemed like just a friendly old grandpa.

Tsunade pouted.

As Hokage, he'd already investigated Natsume and Shizune's backgrounds.

He was just putting on a show to make a good impression.

"This is Shizune," Tsunade said offhandedly.

"Shizune, huh?" Hiruzen said, a bit nostalgic. "You've grown so much. If your uncle were alive, he'd be so proud."

Tsunade narrowed her eyes, a little annoyed. "Old man, cut it out."

"Sorry, I was just thinking of old times."

He turned his attention to Natsume. "And this child?"

"Natsume, my new apprentice," Tsunade replied quickly, realizing Hiruzen was really here for Natsume.

He'd probably already spoken with Yakushi Nonou.

"An apprentice? That's rare," Hiruzen said, kneeling down and reaching to pat Natsume's head. "Tell Grandpa, what ninja clan are you from?"

Old fox—so sly.

Natsume realized the situation even faster than Tsunade.

He'd already considered this issue.

As one of the Sannin, Tsunade's apprentice would definitely be investigated.

Natsume was from the orphanage, so the person who knew him best was Nonou.

As his foster mother, she wouldn't betray him—at most, she'd say he was from the Senju clan.

That would be enough reason for Tsunade to take him as an apprentice.

Natsume instinctively looked at Tsunade, not Hiruzen.

Tsunade saw his expressive eyes and smiled. So clever.

"He has Senju blood. I saw his talent and took him as my student," Tsunade said.

"I see," Hiruzen replied, not surprised.

He had already asked Nonou.

But he hadn't suspected Wood Release.

The Senju had been scattered and monitored for years—he had a complete list.

Because Wood Release was so important.

If anyone awakened it, he'd take them away.

But decades had passed, and none had.

As the Ninja Professor, Hiruzen had led experiments with Hashirama cells, too.

He believed the key was in the body—Hashirama's body was too unique, even his cells had incredible vitality.

That might be the secret to awakening Wood Release.

When he patted Natsume's head, he'd checked.

Natsume was pitifully weak.

No way he could awaken Wood Release.

Removing his suspicions, Hiruzen said, "I think Natsume is old enough for school. I'll have the Ninja Academy send an admission notice soon."

"No need," Tsunade replied instinctively. She didn't want Natsume to leave her. "I can teach him myself."

"You know the academy is good for his growth," Hiruzen said, still smiling. "He'll learn more, and make friends."

Tsunade frowned—he wasn't wrong.

That's why she'd sent Shizune to school.

"Natsume, what do you think? Would you like to go? You'll make many friends there."

Hiruzen shifted his focus to Natsume.

He was always confident with children.

He'd spent years building an image as the strongest Hokage and a loving grandpa.

Kids adored him.

Natsume hesitated. Actually, he did want to go.

More friends mean more opportunities—and more future wives.

And staying in Konoha made collecting fate points easier.

"I'll do whatever Sister Tsunade says," Natsume replied.

Hiruzen was surprised—why wasn't this going as planned?

Was his PR not good enough?

Tsunade smiled, pleased with Natsume's answer.

"I'll think about it," she said.

"Alright." Hiruzen got down to business. "Three days from now, at 8 a.m., is the funeral for Minato Namikaze and Kushina Uzumaki. Don't be late."

Tsunade's smile faded, and she nodded. "I'll be there."

"Goodbye, Grandpa Hokage," Natsume and Shizune said.

Shizune meant it; Natsume was just pretending.

Hiruzen left smiling.

No matter what Natsume might hide, as long as he was in Konoha, he was under Hiruzen's control.

"Let's go inside," Tsunade said.

She was used to Hiruzen's style, so she wasn't surprised by the test.

The three went inside.

"Shizune, this will be your room from now on," Tsunade said, putting the new clothes down.

"Yes, Lady Tsunade," Shizune replied, immediately putting the clothes away and showing how sensible she was.

Tsunade was pleased—it meant less trouble later.

"Once you're done, come to the living room," she said, heading upstairs.

Shizune tidied her room, shut the door, and went to the living room.

She blinked.

So cute.

She saw Natsume curled up on the sofa like a white cat.

"Natsume-kun," Shizune said, sitting across from him. "How old are you?"

"Seven," Natsume replied, sitting up. "How about you, Sis?"

"I'm fourteen," Shizune said, patting her rather flat chest. "I'm already a qualified genin, so if you ever need anything, just ask."

She was trying to get closer, thinking Natsume had been with Tsunade for a while.

"Okay!" Natsume said happily.

He really was happy.

Tsunade, Shizune, and Kabuto—he had the three best nurse types from Naruto.

It'd be hard to die with them around.

"You two seem to get along," Tsunade said, coming down the stairs and handing a book to Shizune. "A book about medical ninjutsu."

Shizune opened it and was stunned.

Natsume peeked too.

It was a list of medical textbooks.

A devil move.

Anyone who encourages someone to study medicine deserves lightning strikes.

Natsume understood this now.

Being a regular ninja was much simpler.

"Shizune, your job for now is to memorize the theory. Then I'll teach you medical ninjutsu."

Tsunade turned to Natsume. "Come with me, I have something to ask."

Natsume guessed it was about ninja school.

Sure enough, once inside, Tsunade asked, "Do you want to go to the ninja academy?"

She had planned to leave Konoha with Shizune, but now there was Natsume.

Traveling with her would be hard for a child.

After two days together, Tsunade had grown really fond of Natsume. Since school was actually useful, she hesitated.

Natsume paused, then said, "I'll do whatever you think is best, Sis."

Tsunade noticed his expression, and realized he actually wanted to go.

It made her want to treat him even better.

She picked him up and set him on her lap, her mountains pressing down on his head, and said, "Such a considerate, good kid."