NZNT: Chapter 124

Returning to Konoha from ancient Rōran, Yusuke brought back a piece of the God Tree root, imbued with powerful Yang Release chakra.

Itachi and Izumi, who had rescued Team Kakashi, also returned to the village and recounted their encounter with Orochimaru and Sasori.

Hearing about Orochimaru's power, Yusuke grew wary.

He had maintained a covert relationship with Orochimaru, exchanging knowledge on forbidden techniques.

This was a double-edged sword. Yusuke gained much from Orochimaru, but he also helped Orochimaru grow stronger.

"Orochimaru must have developed a forbidden technique to absorb others' Ice Release kekkei genkai, enhancing his own Ice Release."

"The Land of Snow's destruction and Orochimaru's obsession with Haku were all for Ice Release kekkei genkai."

Itachi and Izumi agreed with Yusuke's analysis.

"Let's put Orochimaru aside for now. I'll handle him. In Rōran, I found the legendary Ryūmyaku, solving the Mangekyō Sharingan chakra depletion problem."

Itachi and Izumi were delighted.

"Come to the Research Institute. I left the treasure there."

The three went to the Konoha Research Institute. After years of development, the Institute was thriving, with a large number of students in its affiliated academy.

Although most students couldn't participate in major projects yet, they formed a reserve of scientific talent, preventing a shortage.

Konoha now had a technological advantage over other nations in ninjutsu and tools. This advantage would only grow stronger.

Passing through the hall with a sign reading "Technological Advancement of the Village," they reached Kabuto's lab.

As the Vice-Director of the Konoha Research Institute, Kabuto looked like a scientist.

His long hair was now short; he wore a white lab coat and his black-rimmed glasses, a gift from Yakushi Nonō.

Kabuto appeared refined and gentle.

Only those familiar with him knew he possessed incredible life force, surpassing even jinchuriki.

Perhaps only Hashirama Senju could surpass him in life force.

Kabuto's life force was a result of many factors: exceptional physical aptitude, the Eight-Tails' Yang Release chakra, and bio-technology. His physical abilities surpassed almost all ninjas.

"Sensei, this God Tree root is invaluable. It gives me many new research topics!"

Gently touching the root, Kabuto displayed the demeanor of a mad scientist.

"The God Tree root is a natural treasure. Even untreated, it provides pure life force."

Yusuke produced Ryūjin Jakka, slicing off four small pieces.

"Made into jewelry, it gently nourishes the body, reducing illness and accelerating healing. It's not ideal for combat but is beneficial for health."

"For the Uchiha, it nourishes the Sharingan and replenishes chakra without the harmful side effects of Hashirama cells."

Yusuke carved the pieces into jewelry: pendants for him and Kabuto, a ring for Itachi, and earrings for Izumi.

"My vision is improving!"

Izumi exclaimed, surprised, after putting on her earrings. Despite her careful chakra control, years of Mangekyō Sharingan use had depleted her chakra and vision.

"Even if more Uchiha awaken the Mangekyō Sharingan, chakra depletion won't be a problem. This is significant for the clan!" Itachi added.

A researcher knocked on Yusuke's door, "Director, the Fourth Hokage is here. He wants to talk to you."

"Understood. Ask him to wait in the meeting room. I'll be there soon."

After instructing his disciples, Yusuke went to the meeting room.

"Minato, why did you come in person? Anbu could have relayed a message," Yusuke smiled.

Thirty-four-year-old Minato hadn't changed much physically, but he was more mature than six years ago.

"I was tired after a day at the Hokage Tower and wanted a walk. Hearing you were back, I wanted to discuss something."

"Care for a walk and talk?"

On Konoha's streets, Yusuke and Minato strolled, chatting casually.

They were Konoha's most powerful and respected individuals.

One would expect conflict, given the nature of power struggles.

However, in the six years since Minato's awakening, they had rarely clashed.

Neither craved power. Yusuke focused on research and training; Minato viewed Hokage as a responsibility, not a means to build factions.

Both were principled, prioritizing the village's interests and upholding fairness and transparency in their work, minimizing disagreements.

"I love walking the village streets, seeing the villagers' busy, happy lives. It's rewarding. Your contributions are immense."

Greeting villagers along the way, Minato smiled.

____________________

for more advance chapters visit my p@treon

p@treon.com/kane45

Casual Reader - 20 Advance Chapters

Intermediate Reader - 40 Advance Chapters

Expert Reader - 60 Advance Chapters