When Anya came to, the sky was already pitch black. The summoned Katsuyu had long vanished, and Tsunade was fast asleep at the table, surrounded by several differently colored bottles and jars. Anya didn't even need to guess what was inside them.
It seemed Tsunade was just as skilled in poisons as she was in healing—though her fists were definitely more direct and violent than any toxin.
Anya shook his head slightly, confirming there were no lingering effects from the poison, before performing the Summoning jutsu once again.
A puff of white smoke appeared, and a small slug materialized on the floor.
Smiling brightly, Anya greeted it, "Hello there! How should I address you?"
The summoned slug responded gently, "Just call me Katsuyu, Anya-sama."
Hearing this title made Anya feel somewhat flattered. He quickly waved his hand and said, "No need for such formalities. Just call me Anya."
Katsuyu let out a soft giggle with her gentle voice. "Alright then."
Originally intending to build rapport with the summoned creature, Anya was pleasantly surprised that Tsunade's summon was so agreeable. Carefully placing the slug on his palm, he lightly stroked her and asked, "Katsuyu, your body feels so soft. Was it you who saved me just now?"
"It was Tsunade-sama who saved you," Katsuyu replied honestly.
Anya quickly figured it out—he'd probably been used as a test subject again. Still, she had compensated him with a summoned creature, so all things considered, it wasn't a bad deal at all.
Smiling down at the slug resting in his palm, Anya said, "I look forward to working with you from now on."
"Of course." Katsuyu asked curiously, "Anya, if you don't mind me asking, why are you training so hard?"
Caught off guard by the question, Anya honestly hadn't thought about it much. After a moment of contemplation, he replied, "I want to become someone just like the First Hokage."
"Oh, I see. I understand now," Katsuyu praised, "Your dream is truly noble."
In truth, Anya hadn't finished what he meant to say. What he truly wanted was to obtain power equal to the First Hokage, unify the ninja world, and erase the existence of the Five Great Countries forever—bringing lasting peace to the war-torn world and allowing him to retire gracefully and enjoy a peaceful, happy life.
What Anya failed to notice was that Tsunade, still seemingly asleep, had heard his words—and a faint smile tugged at the corner of her lips.
When daylight fully illuminated the room, a voice rang out from beyond the door: "Anya, Third Hokage-sama has something to discuss with you."
The two, deep into their research on poisons, were both taken aback. Tsunade looked at Anya in confusion, as if asking, Why would the old man want to see you?
Anya also felt completely puzzled, shrugging helplessly to show his confusion.
Tsunade spoke up, "Since the elder wants to meet you, better go see him soon. I can handle things here alone."
"Okay, I'll be right back." With Katsuyu by his side, Anya's fascination with poisons grew stronger each day. Under Tsunade's guidance, he'd improved rapidly—from barely knowing the basics to becoming quite skilled.
Arriving at the Hokage's office, the Third was still the same old man, meticulously handling a pile of documents on his desk. His hair had turned completely white; it seemed the daily demands consumed enormous energy.
Seeing Anya enter, the Third smiled warmly and said, "You must be wondering why I suddenly summoned you."
Anya sighed slightly and replied, "It is indeed strange. After all, I am just a minor figure. Receiving such an honor to meet the Hokage in person feels rather unexpected."
"Haha," the Third chuckled, speaking affectionately, "Actually, I've been closely monitoring you for quite some time already. But what truly convinced me to meet you was the intelligence work you recently completed. This has shown me your limitless potential."
So the issue was with this intelligence work? Was it good or bad? Anya felt puzzled.
The Third continued, "Completing this assignment alone qualifies you to be promoted to Jonin. Furthermore, you possess talents most Jonin don't have. I believe you're capable of leading a team independently to complete missions now."
Anya caught the unspoken meaning in the Third's words and frowned slightly before replying, "Still, I hope I can continue working under my teacher."
Smiling brightly, the Third replied, "This was White Fang's opinion as well. He also holds great expectations for you."
So they were fully ready to push him into the spotlight. Feeling uneasy inside, Anya thought—if he hadn't come from the Uchiha Clan, stepping forward wouldn't matter much. However, knowing the fate awaiting the Uchiha, he hesitated greatly. He couldn't imagine having the ability to become an exception. Anya hesitated, then asked, "Do you have any further plans for me, Lord Third?"
Understanding Anya's implication, the Third curiously asked, "I always get the feeling that you're afraid of something. Would you like to tell me more details?"
Anya gave a bitter inward laugh. How could he possibly explain? Could he say that the Uchiha Clan will eventually be annihilated? If he told them, would anyone even believe him now?
Seeing Anya remained silent, the Third finally spoke, "I do have another plan for you. If you're willing, how about joining the Anbu?"
Anbu? A spark stirred within Anya's heart. He respectfully responded, "That would be acceptable."
Would he really prefer joining Anbu and hiding behind a mask instead of conducting missions openly in the field? The Third felt confused, sensing there was much the young boy kept hidden in his heart.
Yet since the words had been spoken, the Third continued, "Since you're willing to join the Anbu, I'll appoint you as an Anbu squad leader right now. Lead the team I've prepared for you to the battlefield near Iwagakure immediately. Provide maximum support to turn the front-line battle situation. Your top priority is to secure victory."
"Yes, sir." Anya responded promptly.
Observing Anya's straightforward acceptance, the Third hesitantly asked instead, "Anbu missions are often the most dangerous ones. Do you feel confident enough to handle them?"
Anya honestly answered, "I will accomplish the mission to the best of my abilities."
"Alright then. Prepare yourself; you'll depart tonight. The members of your squad have been meticulously selected. They're highly capable individuals who can handle various complicated situations. Remember, never act alone." The Third gave one final reminder.
"Yes, I'll pay attention to teamwork." After giving his promise, Anya was handed a set of special Anbu gear.
Anya donned the iconic Anbu mask and turned to leave the Hokage's office.
When Anya reappeared, he stood outside Tsunade's lab where she studied poison. As he was about to push the door open, he suddenly stopped and knocked instead.
Inside, Tsunade found it somewhat strange and said, "Just come in."
"No," Anya said, turning to leave. "I have to go now. Looks like this is as far as I can go with you on this research. I hope you'll soon develop a combat system tailored for medical ninja. Take care."
Hearing that, Tsunade dashed to the door and threw it open—but by then, the corridor outside was already empty.
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