After Yuki departed the training ground, Takao spoke up, "Although I've fought against both of you as a team, let's assess your individual skills now. Kosuke, you're up first."
Once the dust of their sparring had settled and the two combatants lay on the ground, gasping for breath, Takao asserted, "Now that I've had a chance to observe your skills, I want you to reflect on your own and identify what areas you need to improve. Give me your answer after 10 minutes."
Ten minutes elapsed, and with both of them lost in their thoughts, Takao clapped his hands to snap them out of their reverie. He then said, "Yuto, you're up first."
Yuto, paying attention to his sensei, took a deep breath and began, "I've noticed that I excel in fast strikes and unexpected attacks. However, when a battle drags on, the rhythm of the fight tends to work against me, making it easier for the opponent to counter my moves. My timing needs to be impeccable for my strikes to land effectively. Moreover, the combat style I'm currently using lacks versatility."
Upon hearing Yuto's response, Takao nodded approvingly and commented, "You're absolutely right, Yuto. It's commendable that you're aware of your weaknesses. Now, how do you plan to overcome these disadvantages?"
Yuto's voice carried determination as he spoke, "I believe I can introduce techniques that manipulate the battle's rhythm. Utilizing clones for distraction, concealing my presence, and meticulously choosing when to strike could significantly enhance my effectiveness."
Takao nodded in agreement, his advice laced with concern, "Indeed, expanding your repertoire is crucial, especially by incorporating techniques that focus on control. Relying solely on sword drawing might lead to vulnerability if your opponent catches on. Work towards executing your current technique which have one-second window for execution needs to narrow down to a mere blink."
With Yuto's turn completed, Takao's attention shifted to Kosuke, who began to speak, "Sensei, are there any drawbacks to the Hatake style? It emphasizes rapid and precise strikes, a path followed even by the esteemed White Fang who achieved remarkable mastery."
Takao's gaze shifted, now directed at Kosuke. "Ah, Kosuke," he began, "while the Hatake style indeed boasts its strengths, there are nuances to consider. Its focus on speed and precision can sometimes leave its practitioner vulnerable to opponents who decipher the strategy. Swift attacks can become predictable, and if an adversary discerns the rhythm, countering becomes plausible."
He continued, his words imparting wisdom akin to turning pages in a book, "The White Fang, an icon of this style, did indeed ascend to great heights. Yet, even the most revered techniques possess limitations. As a practitioner, it's imperative to recognize these gaps and evolve. Consider augmenting your skill set with tactical variations. Diversifying your abilities will safeguard against predictability, ensuring you stand strong against different opponents."
With unwavering determination gleaming in his eyes, Kosuke spoke, "Thank you, sensei. I'll heed your advice and mold the style to suit my strengths. Just as you pointed out, losers can't remain beggars. I'll train tirelessly to carve my own name in history, much like the renowned White Fang."
Takao's words echoed with guidance, "Your foundations are solid, both of you. However, there's refinement needed in your styles. Rest assured, I'll assist in honing your techniques. There's ample room for growth and development. That's a wrap for today; head back home and take your well-deserved rest." With a swift motion, he vanished from sight.
Left alone on the training grounds, Yuto and Kosuke exchanged a glance that seemed to convey their thoughts – "Why the tough lesson? Did we somehow cross paths with him in a previous life?"
Yuto's weariness showed as he suggested, "Let's regroup tomorrow. I need some rest at home. Goodbye."
Kosuke chimed in, echoing the sentiment, "Absolutely, I'm in the same boat. Goodbye for now."
Within the grand Hokage building,
After releasing Yuto and Kosuke from training, Takao ascended the steps to enter the Hokage's office. The sight that greeted him was that of Hiruzen Sarutobi, hunched over a sea of never-ending documents. A fleeting thought brushed through Takao's mind, a wry reflection, "What crimes did they commit to be sentenced to this level of punishment. If i would be ever reborn then please this foolish soul of mine, don't even think of becoming hokage.'
As Takao's presence registered, Hiruzen's gaze lifted from the papers. An inquiry emerged from the Hokage's lips, laden with curiosity, "How did your evaluation of the team fare, Takao?"
Offering his observations, Takao spoke, "There's definite promise, Lord Hokage. They've shown prowess beyond the typical Genin level. Yuki exhibits remarkable growth in her taijutsu skills, even nearing the threshold of chunin proficiency. Kosuke's performance in both kenjutsu and shurikenjutsu was commendable."
Pausing, Takao pondered his next words, choosing them carefully. "As for Yuto, well, it's a bit complex to put into words."
Intrigued, Hiruzen inquired further, "Is there a particular issue with his performance? I suppose I should have anticipated this scenario. The rookie of the year, yet the absence of a bloodline limit..."
Takao's voice carried a sense of assertion as he spoke up, addressing the Hokage, "Notably, Lord Hokage, Yuto stands as the recipient of the 'rookie of the year' honor. His development encompasses a well-rounded spectrum – his physical growth, Kenjutsu mastery, adeptness in ninjutsu, and even his tactical acumen seem to exceed his age. It's as though he's garnered experience from countless missions. Remarkably composed and collected, he exudes a sense of calm that sets him apart from his peers. Noteworthy too, his chakra reserves approach the levels seen in chunin, showcasing his potential."
Hiruzen's intrigue was evident, his tone reflecting the hope of potential, "This is indeed quite promising. What about his specialization skills, Takao?"
With thoughtfulness, Takao offered his insights, "Yuto's sensory skills show promise, though further battle experience would enhance their efficacy. Regarding his kenjutsu expertise, his foundation is solid, and he's actively refining his techniques. It may take time to fully gauge his mastery, but his current capabilities are commendable. As for the others, their abilities are noteworthy as well. They possess a strong grasp of their unique skills, with room to grow further. Focusing on their clan techniques could be instrumental in their progression."
Hiruzen's final decree resonated with authority, "Very well. I entrust their growth to your guidance and care." And with that, the meeting concluded.
As dawn's first light struggled to breach the window, Yuto stirred from his slumber at the unusually early hour of 4 am. Outside, darkness persisted, casting a curious thought into his mind, "Didn't Takao mention 5 am? How much sleep are we really getting? Waking up at 5 am felt early, but now it's as though even that's a luxury. I'll need to fit in bathing, breakfast, and then sprint to the training ground – quite the distance from here. Best to save the gravity seal for later; I can't afford to drain myself before even getting there. And what sort of training does he have in store? Hopefully, it won't be some monstrous regime that makes the Spartan training look like child's play."
Yuto arrived at the training grounds a few minutes ahead of time, finding Kosuke and Yuki already present. He greeted them with a nod and a "Good morning," before settling in to await Takao's arrival. Soon enough, Takao emerged, a beacon of authority in their midst.
With a composed stance, Takao initiated the proceedings, "Now that we're all assembled, let me clarify our routine. We'll gather at this hour every day, and our training will kick off with a rigorous focus on physical conditioning."
His gaze shifted towards Yuto, a question poised in his eyes. "By the way," he inquired, "why did you not deactivate the gravity seal?"
Yuto's reply was tinged with nervousness as he explained, "Um, well, I thought it might be a beneficial challenge, so I sort of kept the gravity seal on. I did make it a bit lighter though, so I could still move around comfortably." His hand sheepishly scratched the back of his head, a gesture of slight embarrassment.
Kosuke and Yuki exchanged puzzled glances, clearly trying to comprehend his reasoning.
Observing this, Takao couldn't help but ponder, 'Is he for real. Did he just died previously early, so now he is trying to train every moment' Despite the oddity of the situation, he composed himself and responded, "Alright then. Maintain the current setting for now. However, remember to remove it when needed, like during missions or for rest. Occasionally, practice without it as well, gradually adapting your body. Also, can you tell me the weight it exerts and its maximum capacity?"
Yuto replied, "Of course. Currently, I can handle around 50% of its total weight, which is 500 kg distributed across my limbs and body. During our sparring, I had it at around 40%. The maximum weight it can generate is 1000 kg."
Listening to Yuto's explanation, Takao was inwardly impressed, thinking, 'Impressive indeed. It seems someone must have suggested this method to him to enhance his physical training. No wonder he felt restricted during our spar. Looks like he's been focusing on building his body's strength.'
Takao then turned his gaze toward Kosuke and Yuki, their expressions reflecting a mix of realization and curiosity. He addressed them directly, saying, "Since you two don't have a similar seal on your bodies, I recommend asking your parents to acquire them within a week."
In unison, Kosuke and Yuki shared a thought, 'No wonder he exhibits such speed and strength. How come we never heard about this?'
With a sense of finality, Takao announced, "Now, let's embark on our training."
And so, Team 3 embarked on their training journey led by their newly appointed sensei. Enthusiasm filled the air as they began their exercises, driven by the ambition to someday attain the same level of skill and strength they saw in their mentor.
The initial 30 minutes saw the team in high spirits, giving their all to the training. However, as time progressed, so did the fatigue. After the two-hour mark, both Kosuke and Yuki found themselves gasping for breath, their bodies refusing to move with ease. Yuto, though holding on valiantly, eventually joined their ranks after another two hours of intense effort. As the clock approached 9 am, Takao called for a halt, granting Kosuke and Yuki a much-needed break to recover.
Concluding the grueling physical training, Yuto's thoughts couldn't help but spiral into disbelief, 'What in the world...? How did my early morning musings translate into this reality? Is it some strange morning haze? But that's not the point! Is he some sort of demon? How can he train us like this? What did we do to deserve such a brutal regimen?'
Observing the scene before him, Takao's internal amusement surfaced, reminiscent of his own early experiences. He thought, 'Ah, the familiar cycle of emotions. It's quite the sight.' Retrieving ration bars and bottles, he distributed them to the exhausted trio, advising, "Take a one-hour break now. Eat these rations and refuel your energy."
As Takao made a move to depart, Yuto's voice broke the moment, a request laced with a touch of humor, "Sensei, could I trouble you for some more? I've got quite the appetite, you see."
Amused by the request, Takao granted Yuto's wish, tossing more ration bars his way before vanishing with a flicker. Observing Yuto's voracious consumption, Kosuke and Yuki exchanged bemused thoughts, 'How in the world does he still have room to eat? We'd probably retch if we even tried.'
With Takao gone, Yuto seized the opportunity, consuming all the ration bars, his body instantly processing them to restore around 25% of his stamina and thought, 'It's so good to have this digestion ability of seimei kikan. With ample time remaining, he settled into a meditation, a practice that portrayed his fervent dedication to improvement. Seeing his actions, both Kosuke and Yuki came to the same conclusion – 'He's an even bigger training fanatic than we are.' Driven by this notion, they allowed sleep to overcome them.
After half an hour, Yuto roused them from their sleep, an alertness in his voice, "Wake up and eat. He'll be here in about 20 minutes."
Once they shook off the haze of sleep, the trio promptly consumed their provisions and emptied their bottles. A sigh escaped from Kosuke, his body echoing the sentiment as he expressed, "My entire body is aching after that training. How did you manage with all that weight on you?"
Yuki, in agreement, added, "I'm in the same boat. Seeing you devour those rations made me queasy."
Yuto offered reassurance born from personal experience, "Believe me, I was in your shoes at the beginning. Don't fret; once you witness the results, you'll find the effort worthwhile."
Curiosity piqued, Yuki inquired, "While I do focus on taijutsu, even for me, the training was overwhelming. Given our style's emphasis on technique, such brute strength isn't always essential."
Kosuke chimed in, sharing a similar perspective, "Exactly. My focus has been primarily on refining kenjutsu. The intensity of the physical aspect caught me off guard. Considering how he plans to increase the training further, especially after we get those seals, it's a bit daunting."
Yuki's expression mirrored the sentiment as she shivered, "You're so right. If he ups the intensity, I might not survive."
Yuto interjected with a note of determination, "Prepare yourselves; he will escalate the challenges. Consider it an entrance exam into the world of shinobi."
A spark of determination flickered in Kosuke's eyes, a reflection of his thoughts, 'This training won't deter me from becoming like the White Fang.'
Yuki's resolute determination matched his, her inner resolve echoing, 'I will emerge as the strongest Taijutsu practitioner.'
And as their shared determination intertwined, Yuto couldn't help but think, 'Did I just deliver a classic speech of youthful spirit?'