Naruto: You Call This A Medical Ninja?

News of Konoha's "special training" spread like wildfire through the special training camp. No one knew the origin of the rumors, but within a week, speculation had reached even the instructors, leaving them baffled.

Concerned Voices

"Tsunade-sama," said Goju Yagura, the Mizukage, his voice tinged with worry. "I think Konoha should address this matter. We're part of the Ninja Alliance now, and if someone is intentionally stirring trouble, it could harm the unity we've worked so hard to build—especially for the younger ninja, who are more easily influenced."

Despite his role as Mizukage, Yagura harbored deep gratitude toward Konoha. The Alliance's resources, particularly its training methods and medicinal advancements, were things Kirigakure could never have achieved alone. Yagura spoke respectfully, conscious of Konoha's contributions.

Luo Sha, the Kazekage, added bluntly, "This seems to involve Reiki and his team of medical ninja. Tsunade-sama, can you clarify what they're up to?"

All eyes turned to Tsunade. As Reiki's teacher and the leader of Konoha's medical ninjutsu, she was the most likely person to have answers.

Tsunade Responds

Tsunade frowned, her tone sharp. "Reiki? He's conducting independent training. You've seen him practicing, haven't you? The specifics of the training haven't been finalized yet. Do independent training sessions need to be reported now?"

Her words were firm, making it clear she wasn't amused by the baseless accusations.

She wasn't naive, though. Tsunade knew that neither Sunagakure nor Kirigakure had malicious intent. Both villages heavily relied on the Alliance's resources. Luo Sha and Yagura's inquiries likely stemmed from concern for the Alliance's image, not an intent to challenge Konoha.

However, the situation grated on her nerves. Why should Konoha constantly justify itself to everyone?

Tensions Escalate

The Third Raikage tried to interject. "Now that we're all part of the Ninja Alliance, transparency is important—"

Tsunade cut him off, her patience wearing thin. "If you're so curious, just ask Reiki directly. Why are you creating drama over nothing?"

The room fell silent. Tsunade's sharp words left everyone uncomfortable. Her growing frustration was evident—these supposed allies were beginning to look more like meddling busybodies.

Nagato, the former leader of the Akatsuki and now a crucial figure in the Alliance, spoke up calmly. "Tsunade-sama, perhaps we can resolve this by being direct. Announce openly that Konoha is conducting self-driven training. If anyone has questions, they're free to ask Reiki or his team directly. It's not as if they're strangers to the Alliance."

His suggestion carried weight, making it clear that transparency didn't equate to constant oversight.

The other leaders exchanged awkward glances. None of them wanted to approach Reiki directly—it would expose their attempt to force Konoha's hand.

Tsunade's Final Word

Tsunade's gaze swept across the room. "Listen carefully. We are an alliance, not your babysitters. Not everything Konoha does needs to be reported to you in detail. If you have concerns, address them respectfully. Otherwise, stop wasting my time."

Her tone was firm, bordering on domineering. The leaders, sensing her rising temper, chose to retreat for now.

As they left, Jiraiya tried to console her. "Tsunade, don't let them get to you. They're just jealous of Konoha's strength. It's natural for people to resent unequal contributions—"

Tsunade glared at him. "Are you saying I'm being unreasonable, Jiraiya?"

"No, no! Of course not! I'm on your side, always!" Jiraiya stammered, trying to placate her.

But it was too late. Tsunade's pent-up frustration found an outlet, and Jiraiya became her unfortunate target.

"Help!" Jiraiya's cries echoed as Tsunade vented her anger.

Aftermath

Half an hour later, Tsunade left, her mood slightly improved.

"I'm going to see Reiki," she declared before storming out.

Namikaze Minato and Nagato hurried to help Jiraiya, who was slumped in a chair, battered but alive.

"Why didn't you two stop her?" Jiraiya grumbled, wincing as he moved.

Minato smiled sheepishly. "We'd just end up in the same state if we tried."

Nagato nodded. "Exactly. Besides, we have other matters to handle. Take it easy, sensei."

Minato vanished in a yellow flash, and Nagato excused himself, leaving Jiraiya with Orochimaru.

"Orochimaru, at least you're staying, right?" Jiraiya asked hopefully.

Orochimaru's expression was unreadable. "Care to join me in my experiments, Jiraiya? I could use an assistant."

Jiraiya paled. "On second thought, I think I'll just rest."

Orochimaru smirked and left without another word.

Tsunade Confronts Reiki

Tsunade arrived at the training grounds where Reiki and his team were stationed. She immediately approached Shisui and Nozuki, who were now operating at the instructor level.

"How long has Reiki been sitting there?" Tsunade asked, pointing toward the figure under the tree.

"He's been there for ten days straight since returning," Shisui replied, his voice filled with concern.

Tsunade frowned. Reiki's prolonged silence and deep thought indicated that something significant was weighing on his mind. Whatever it was, it couldn't be ignored any longer.