Chapter 275 : Katsuyu, History Teacher?

Indeed, how could Kazuhiko possibly relinquish such a significant treasure as Sage Katsuyu?

From the moment Kazuhiko stepped foot into the Shikkotsu Forest, he was determined about one thing: ensuring the preservation of this invaluable resource.

Sage Katsuyu served as a living chronicle of the historical evolution of ninja civilization, a testament to the profound changes witnessed over the past millennium. 

In its presence, the rich tapestry of the ninja world's history unfolded before the eyes of those in Land of Red.

Kazuhiko contemplated the notion of inviting Sage Katsuyu to the Land of Red as an esteemed history instructor. Imagine, the venerable creature imparting knowledge of centuries past to the eager minds of children, offering insights into the intricate web of ninja history, particularly that of the preceding century.

What's more, Sage Katsuyu's unique ability to divide itself would allow for simultaneous instruction across multiple classes. 

Paired with its gentle demeanor and soothing voice, it would undoubtedly make for an unparalleled history teacher.

Already, Kazuhiko was devising strategies to persuade Sage Katsuyu to join the ranks of educators in Land of Red. The mental image of the venerable creature standing before a classroom, delivering lectures to enthralled students, amused him greatly.

Yet, this was merely a concept in Kazuhiko's mind. The actual realization of such a plan would require negotiation with Sage Katsuyu.

However, Sage Katsuyu was not the only aspect of Shikkotsu Forest that piqued Kazuhiko's interest.

The forest was teeming with marvels; from the mystical Fountain of Life to the natural energy-enriched mucus of Katsuyu, and the rare treasures housed within its trees. 

Properly utilized, these resources held immense value and potential.

Sage Katsuyu, nestled within the dense Shikkotsu Forest, cocked her head curiously as she nibbled on a couple of leaves, oblivious to the fact that Kazuhiko had just playfully tapped her with the abacus.

Yanagawa Fubuki strolled alongside Kazuhiko, surveying the surroundings with interest. Kazuhiko, head of the new ninja training facility's research division, regarded the location with utmost importance.

Kazuhiko intended to construct the facility in strict accordance with laboratory standards from a previous life. While there would undoubtedly be areas where it fell short, every effort would be made to emulate them.

This endeavor marked a pioneering venture within the ninja world, necessitating Kazuhiko's heightened vigilance.

With an eye on overseeing the laboratory's construction, Kazuhiko understood its significance to the future trajectory of the Land of Red.

Having mastered the utilization of natural energy, Kazuhiko now aimed to experiment with extending its application to a broader populace, thereby fostering a cadre of formidable warriors for the Land of Red's advancement.

Though the reasons for his keen interest in this undertaking remained a mystery to others, Kazuhiko alone grasped the pivotal role it played.

As time trickled by, the sky gradually darkened, and as dusk settled, distant flickers of light hinted at the return of the Land of Red's populace to their homes.

For many, this twilight hour marked the pinnacle of their day, with children completing homework by dim lamplight while parents engaged in hushed conversations nearby.

Some fathers intermittently sipped wine, while mothers voiced subdued grievances.

Occasional scoldings from neighboring households punctuated the evening, with mischievous children adding to the lively cacophony.

Amidst this symphony of life, the glow of a thousand hearths illuminated the scene.

February's lingering chill permeated the air, a reminder of Land of Red's modest prosperity.

In the former Land of the Whirlpool, only the Uzumaki clan boasted stoves for warmth, a luxury seldom found elsewhere.

In the face of winter, ordinary civilians used to huddle in a corner of their homes with a couple of logs to keep warm.

But times have changed. In Land of Red, wherever there are people, there's a small heater now, fueled by Land of Red's coal, ensuring warmth throughout the night.

Moreover, every household in the Red Country is now electrified, with light bulbs illuminating homes, a reality that was once beyond the wildest dreams of many.

For all this, the refugees offer sincere thanks to Kazuhiko, the man who brought these blessings upon them.

Many have even adorned their walls with posters of Kazuhiko, revering him as a savior without him even realizing it...

The greater the suffering, the deeper the gratitude toward Kazuhiko. It's well known that in impoverished, war-torn regions, the biting cold of winter can be more lethal than the deadliest ninjas.

With no shelter or means to combat the cold, it's all too easy to succumb to the freezing night.

Especially for the homeless, who have witnessed the brutal reality of winter's wrath.

But now, even the most destitute among them have warm clothing and heaters in their homes, courtesy of Kazuhiko's benevolence.

There's no need to fret about surviving the winter; instead, they can focus on improving their lives.

As Kazuhiko gazes upon the transformed landscape, a sense of pride wells up within him, knowing that it's all thanks to his efforts.

Observing Yanagawa Fubuki, dressed in a fashionable outfit rumored to be designed by Kazuhiko himself, he sees how quickly it's become a hit among working women across Land of Red.

Yet, sadly, no one has thought to pay him royalties...

"Do you have to return home tonight? I recall you have a son named Taichi, right?"

Yanagawa Fubuki shakes her head. "No need. Taichi can look after himself."

Kazuhiko nods, saying nothing further. He gazes at the twinkling lights of countless homes in the distance, feeling as though this cold winter is a touch warmer under the fiery glow of Land of Red's prosperity.