Chapter 16: Sanin

The following day, Kai received a message asking him to report to the training grounds at dawn. He hadn't been assigned a squad, so he hadn't expected a mentor. However, he sensed that this meeting was significant. He left his apartment early, the sun barely beginning to rise, casting a soft golden glow over the village. The streets of Konoha were quiet at this hour, making his walk to the training grounds peaceful yet filled with anticipation.

Upon reaching the field, Kai scanned the area. At first, it seemed empty, but a split-second later, a figure appeared, flickering into existence with ease. The man had long, gray hair pulled back, and a calm yet sharp look in his eyes. Kai instantly recognized him: Jiraiya, the legendary Sannin, one of the strongest shinobi of Konoha.

Kai was taken aback. ("The Toad Sage himself? This is unexpected.")

Jiraiya gave him a relaxed smile and gestured for him to approach. "So, you're the quiet one everyone's talking about," he said, a spark of curiosity in his gaze. "I've heard that you're a quick learner and a natural when it comes to chakra control. I've got a sense about these things, and there's something unique about you, kid."

Kai nodded, keeping his expression neutral. "I wasn't aware I'd be assigned a mentor, but I'm grateful for the opportunity to learn from you, Lord Jiraiya."

Jiraiya chuckled. "No need for formalities. You can just call me Jiraiya. I'm not here to coddle you or run you through the basics; you've already shown you're beyond that. Instead, I'm here to help you understand the foundations of power, to help you develop techniques that work uniquely for you."

Kai's curiosity piqued. Jiraiya was known for his mastery of ninjutsu and his wide knowledge of shinobi arts. This could be exactly what he needed to elevate his skills.

Jiraiya sat down cross-legged on a nearby boulder and motioned for Kai to sit across from him. "Tell me, Kai—what's your goal?"

Kai took a moment to consider his words. "I want to become the strongest, not just in Konoha, but beyond. I want to understand the true nature of power, of chakra, and to push myself beyond my limits."

Jiraiya's expression shifted from curious to thoughtful, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied Kai. "That's a serious ambition. And a dangerous one if not tempered with discipline and balance. Power for power's sake can destroy you if you're not careful."

Kai nodded. He understood the dangers, but his resolve remained unshaken. "I'm aware of the risks. I won't be reckless."

"Good," Jiraiya said, satisfied. "Then let's see what you can do. Show me your chakra control first."

Kai closed his eyes, focusing his chakra, channeling it with precision until a steady, visible flow appeared around him. He lifted a nearby rock effortlessly with his chakra alone, letting it hover before carefully lowering it back down.

"Impressive," Jiraiya remarked, visibly pleased. "Your chakra control is solid. Now, let's work on something a bit more advanced."

For the next hour, Jiraiya guided Kai through the basics of summoning, teaching him how to summon smaller creatures from Mount Myōboku. It was a technique few could master, requiring immense chakra control and the ability to channel natural energy. Kai struggled at first, but under Jiraiya's guidance, he made progress.

Jiraiya watched him closely, noting his dedication. "You're a natural at this. Keep practicing, and soon you'll be able to summon larger creatures. And remember, patience is key—strength isn't achieved overnight."

After their training, Jiraiya stood up and looked at Kai with an approving nod. "You've got potential, kid. I'll be keeping an eye on you. We'll meet again soon, and I expect to see even more progress."

With that, Jiraiya disappeared in a swirl of leaves, leaving Kai standing alone in the training ground. Kai felt a renewed sense of purpose. Under Jiraiya's guidance, he would gain skills and wisdom that could accelerate his journey toward his goal.

("Jiraiya's right. I need to keep pushing forward, but with patience and strategy. This is just the beginning.")

With his resolve stronger than ever, Kai turned and headed back, his mind already set on his next steps. The path to strength was long, but he was ready to walk it with patience and unwavering determination.