A Fair Offer

Haruto walked through the quiet hospital corridors, making his way toward Tsunade's office. The thought of the Shadow Clone Jutsu she had promised him for graduating early lingered in his mind. When he reached the door, he knocked respectfully.

"Come in!" Tsunade's voice rang out, firm and confident. Haruto stepped inside, closing the door behind him.

Tsunade sat at her desk, surrounded by stacks of medical reports and scrolls, but her attention immediately shifted to him. She motioned for him to take a seat.

"Haruto," she began, her tone thoughtful, "you've been working hard, and graduating early was impressive. As promised, here's your reward."

She slid a scroll across the desk toward him. Haruto's gaze followed it. The Shadow Clone Jutsu—a powerful and versatile technique. He took the scroll carefully, appreciating the significance of what it represented.

"Thank you, Tsunade-sama," he said with a respectful nod.

"Just be careful," Tsunade added, her voice steady but serious. "The jutsu's useful, but it can drain your chakra quickly if you're not careful. Make sure you don't overdo it."

Haruto nodded. "I'll be sure to practice thoroughly."

Tsunade gave a brief nod of approval before continuing, "I have another offer for you."

Haruto's curiosity piqued as he leaned forward.

"I want you to come to the hospital whenever you can," she explained. "Work and train under me. You've shown potential as a medical ninja, and it's time to take that further."

Haruto thought for a moment before responding. "Of course, I'd be honored. But I also have other pursuits. While I want to be a medical ninja, it won't be my only focus."

Tsunade nodded, understanding. "I'm aware you have other goals, and while you're a Genin, I know your time will be split with your Jonin leader's training. But when you become a Chunin, I'll expect a bigger commitment. I won't ask for all your time, but when you're here, I'll need you to take this seriously."

Haruto considered her words carefully. It was a fair deal. She wasn't demanding all his focus but expected dedication when the time came. "That sounds fair, Tsunade-sama. I'll be able to commit more when I reach that level."

Tsunade leaned back, satisfied. "Good. Don't spread yourself too thin. When you're ready, I'll expect you to give a significant portion of your time."

The conversation softened as Tsunade asked, "How's it going as a Genin? How's the training?"

Haruto smiled. "It's been intense, but Sakumo-sensei is an amazing Jonin leader. He's pushing us hard, and I feel stronger with each session."

Tsunade chuckled. "You've got a good leader in Sakumo. Keep pushing yourself—training under him will take you far."

Before leaving, Haruto hesitated for a moment, then pulled out a small folder from his bag. "One more thing, Tsunade-sama. I've been working on some ideas for the academy. Would you be willing to take a look?"

Tsunade raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Ideas for the academy? Sure, leave them with me. I'll review them."

Haruto handed her the folder, feeling a sense of anticipation. Tsunade accepted it with a nod, her curiosity evident.

As Haruto left the office, he felt a quiet sense of accomplishment. The Shadow Clone Jutsu, Tsunade's guidance, and a chance to shape the academy's future—his path was unfolding, and he was ready to take the next steps.