I Am Weak

"Weak?!"

Mizuki had arrived at the training ground to inform Kuro about the news of his potential early graduation.

But upon hearing Kuro's response, he couldn't help but glance at the destroyed forest behind him, with obvious burn marks and split trees.

He stood there silently, contemplating.

Does this kid really think he's weak?

Or have times changed so much that this level is no longer considered strong?

No, he definitely has a skewed perception of what "weak" means.

Most people in Konoha were aware of Kuro's strength, even if they didn't know the exact details. His overall level was evident, especially to those who had seen him train.

Training Ground 39 was remote, but it was still a public area. Ninjas occasionally passed through, and while many didn't know Kuro personally, they could deduce something about his level by observing his training.

Mizuki, who had come across the area by chance on one occasion, had a decent idea of Kuro's strength.

That's why he had proposed that both Kuro and Sasuke graduate early.

At this moment, Mizuki hadn't yet considered betraying Konoha. He was simply looking to stand out as a teacher, earn recognition, and elevate his status. Teaching geniuses like Kuro and Sasuke was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

But now, Kuro's refusal was complicating things.

How am I supposed to stand out if you and Sasuke don't graduate? My success depends on you two!

Mizuki gritted his teeth but maintained a smile.

"Kuro, you might not see it, but your strength is truly exceptional. Even I, as your sensei, am not necessarily your match."

"I know!" Kuro replied nonchalantly, pointing at Lian, who was standing nearby. "This guy is a former ANBU captain, a Jōnin, and he just lost to me."

"I haven't lost yet," Lian corrected with a calm expression.

Although things hadn't gone in his favor during their fight, technically, the battle wasn't over. Still, his attitude didn't seem very convincing, and Mizuki felt Kuro had a point.

"Well, since you can defeat him…" Mizuki began, trying to regain his composure while mentally confirming Kuro's abilities.

But Kuro cut him off. "Even though I beat him, it was tough. I might not win next time. Isn't that what being weak means?"

"..."

Mizuki fell silent, and Lian didn't bother correcting the "detail" that he hadn't officially lost.

"Well… Kuro…" Mizuki began, forcing a smile. "According to you, what level qualifies as strong?"

"At least the level of the First Hokage," Kuro replied with complete seriousness.

"..."

The corners of Mizuki and Lian's lips twitched in unison.

Mizuki opened his mouth, wanting to say something, but couldn't find the words.

"I'm joking, I'm joking," Kuro said, waving his hands. "Even I know reaching that level isn't realistic."

"Right, it's not," Mizuki replied, letting out a relieved sigh.

"But…" Kuro continued, "I can still reach the level of the Third Hokage."

"—Cough!"

Mizuki, who had just relaxed, nearly choked on Kuro's words.

Lian couldn't help but cast a sympathetic look at Mizuki.

He had known Kuro for some time and understood his personality perfectly.

He knew Kuro was messing with Mizuki.

It wasn't clear if there was a particular reason behind it, like resentment or just for fun, but one thing was certain: Mizuki wasn't going to come out of this unscathed.

"Mizuki-sensei, what's wrong?"

Kuro appeared concerned but took a step back, observing him cautiously.

"An infectious disease has been spreading through the village lately. Could it be that you've caught it, Sensei?"

"I…

Mizuki, trying to stay calm, choked on his words.

Infectious disease? The sick one here is you!

Despite his annoyance, Mizuki managed to maintain his composure. As a ninja, he had some self-control. Besides, he noticed that Kuro was clearly teasing him on purpose.

Why is he doing this?

He didn't know the reason but decided not to take it seriously. After all, it was just a joke… right?

He took a deep breath, calmed his mind, and forced a smile.

"Kuro, let's not argue about whether your level is low or not, but the school has nothing left to teach you. Staying there would be a waste of your talent, so..."

"Stop right there," Kuro interrupted, raising his hand. "I can still learn at school and get stronger."

"Kuro, I'm a teacher."

"And I'm better than you."

"My specialty is teaching others..."

"I'm better than you."

"I..."

"I can beat ten of you without breaking a sweat."

Mizuki felt his patience wavering. His supposedly stable mindset nearly collapsed again.

Finally, he realized Kuro was determined not to graduate early. Without saying another word, he turned and left.

As he walked away, Kuro opened his mouth to make another joke, but seeing him leave, he decided to let it go.

What a shame. These jokes make training less boring.

He sighed and then turned to Lian, his sword in hand.

"Let's pick up where we left off!"

"No need," Lian said, shaking his head. "You've already mastered several ninjutsu and techniques. Plus, with your astonishing chakra reserves and recovery speed, in terms of combat power, you've surpassed me."

"Combat power?" Kuro repeated, puzzled. "You mean mission experience?"

"Exactly," Lian replied with a slight nod. "Ninja missions involve facing highly varied situations, and many times there are factors that have nothing to do with brute strength."

"For example?"

"For example, in an assassination mission, you need stealth experience. Without it, you'll be easily discovered and surrounded."

"In an escort mission, you have to detect traps along the way and ensure you don't get diverted into ambushes."

"Another case would be facing ninjas from another country. During a mission, if you encounter an enemy, you need intelligence and experience to make quick decisions without causing chaos."

"While it might be difficult for me to defeat you in direct combat, in a real mission, without using your special tools, it would be nearly impossible for you to beat me."

Kuro interrupted him with a smile.

"Got it. In short, I need to gain experience to become a proper ninja, right?"

"That's right," Lian nodded. "Also, we've been training together for a year, and we know each other too well. If we keep fighting, you won't gain more combat experience, and it could cause misunderstandings."

"..."

Kuro raised an eyebrow. "So, you're saying you also think I should graduate?"

"Exactly. It's time for you to officially become a ninja."

"...."

Kuro was lost in thought for a moment before smiling.

"In that case… let's learn another ninjutsu!"

"What?!" Lian's eyes widened. "Didn't I just tell you that if you want to improve, you need to become a ninja and gain mission experience?"

"It's just… I'm still too weak."

________

Time: If you're craving more (and I know you are!), I have just what you need. On my Patreon, you'll find exclusive chapters. Join our community and be the first to discover what happens next!

👉 [patreon.com/Athome790]

Your support fuels me. Thank you for the support! 💖