KONOHA :THE RISE OF KAITON

The next day, before dawn, Kaiton woke up early.

Since beginning to practice cell enhancement, Kaiton's energy had gradually strengthened with the increasing vitality of his cells.

Typically, children needed eight to nine hours of sleep daily. However, Kaiton now required only five hours to maintain optimal functionality, which significantly extended his time for training.

After washing up and having a simple breakfast, Kaiton headed toward the back mountain, his training grounds.

The familiar routine of practice began once again.

By the time afternoon arrived, Kaiton was drenched in sweat and gasping for breath, his intense training for the day complete.

Wiping the sweat from his brow, Kaiton couldn't hide his satisfaction. The results of today's efforts were significant.

"Practice truly makes perfect," Kaiton mused, noting the remarkable progress in his chakra control. Initially, his goal had been to master the control of ten times his chakra. But by the end of the session, he found himself proficient at controlling twenty times the amount.

This level of progress was astounding.

"At this rate, I'll master this in about two months," Kaiton thought, a wave of excitement washing over him. "By then, my chakra control will reach a whole new level. Combined with my current ninjutsu, I might even develop a technique unique to me!"

As the possibilities unfolded in his mind, Kaiton laughed triumphantly, his hands on his hips, envisioning the power he'd soon achieve.

"Kaiton, what's so funny?"

Tenzou's voice jolted Kaiton from his thoughts. Standing before him, Tenzou raised an eyebrow, curiosity evident as he waved a hand in front of Kaiton's face.

Kaiton froze, startled. When he recognized Tenzou, his face flushed in embarrassment. He coughed twice, trying to compose himself.

"Tenzou! I didn't see you there. What's up?"

Tenzou blushed faintly, though Kaiton failed to notice as he looked away, scratching his head. In a soft voice, Tenzou murmured, "I just saw you've been practicing nonstop these days. You must be exhausted. How about… we take a break and go out for a walk?"

The suggestion caught Kaiton off guard. Indeed, his relentless training had left him fatigued, though he powered through, driven by his goals.

Still, Tenzou's offer was tempting, and Kaiton couldn't find a reason to refuse.

After a brief moment of thought, Kaiton nodded in agreement.

But where could they go? Konoha Village had only a handful of entertaining spots, all of which they had already visited countless times.

"How about we go to the Death Forest outside the village?" Kaiton suggested suddenly, an idea forming in his mind. "I've heard there are strong beasts there. We could hunt some game and have a barbecue. What do you think?"

Tenzou's eyes lit up. The suggestion was exactly what he wanted. Since Kaiton had begun his intense training regimen, the two hadn't spent much time together. Now, with an opportunity to relax and enjoy each other's company, Tenzou wasn't about to miss it.

With excitement bubbling within, Tenzou agreed, announcing he'd prepare supplies. The two decided to meet at Kaiton's house the next morning before heading to the Death Forest.

---

That evening, Kaiton wandered the streets of Konoha, pondering what to bring for their outing.

"Dango? Tenzou loves those. I'll grab a few."

"I should stop by the shop to pick up some bamboo skewers and seasonings for cooking."

"And just in case we don't make it back by nightfall… I should pack a tent."

Satisfied with his purchases, Kaiton made his way home.

On the way, he ran into Akirai and Setsu, who were deep in conversation.

"Setsu, how many times do I have to tell you? Pay attention to the details of the object you're replicating. If you miss even the slightest thing, your control won't improve!" Akirai scolded.

Setsu scratched his head sheepishly. "I did pay attention, but my chakra just doesn't cooperate. The results are always way off. I don't understand why!"

"Your control is too weak. You need more practice."

"Oh, if only I had Kaiton's talent!" Setsu lamented dramatically.

Hearing his name, Kaiton stopped. Akirai and Setsu turned to see him approaching with bags in hand.

"Kaiton! What are you doing here?" Setsu asked, beaming.

Kaiton explained his plans for a barbecue in the Death Forest with Tenzou.

"A picnic in the Death Forest? That sounds amazing!" Setsu's eyes sparkled with excitement. "I want to come too!"

Kaiton hesitated, scratching the back of his head. "Well… Tenzou and I planned for just the two of us. If you want to come, you'll have to ask Tenzou."

Setsu winced, knowing Tenzou's fiery temper. But the allure of the outing was too strong to resist. He turned to Akirai, an idea forming in his mind.

"Akirai and I can head to the Death Forest, too. If we run into you 'by chance,' Tenzou can't complain!"

Kaiton sighed, realizing there was no stopping Setsu. Turning to Akirai, he asked, "Are you okay with this?"

Akirai chuckled, his expression mischievous. "Why not? See you tomorrow, Kaiton."

Without another word, Setsu and Akirai hurried off to prepare, leaving Kaiton shaking his head in exasperation.

---

The next morning, Tenzou stood at Kaiton's door, her mood sour as she glared at Setsu and Akirai.

"Why are you two here?" Tenzou demanded.

Setsu grinned, unfazed by Tenzou's anger. "We're all friends, aren't we? Why didn't you invite us? But don't worry, I forgive you!"

Tenzou's fists clenched, a vein pulsing on her forehead.

"Setsu! You're asking for it!"

Moments later, Setsu was running for his life, Tenzou hot on his heels.

Kaiton sighed, watching the chaos unfold. "He really doesn't know when to quit."

Eventually, after some coaxing from Kaiton and healing Setsu's injuries, the group set off.

Their journey was lively, filled with Setsu's endless chatter and Akirai's dry humor. Though delayed, they finally reached the Death Forest by noon.

---

The forest was vast and teeming with life. Ancient trees towered overhead, their dense canopy casting shadows across the ground.

Kaiton led the way, expertly navigating the terrain. "We'll set up camp here," he announced, gesturing to a clearing.

Tenzou and Akirai began gathering firewood while Setsu scouted for game. Kaiton unpacked the supplies, setting up a makeshift kitchen.

By late afternoon, the smell of roasting meat filled the air. The group sat around the fire, laughing and sharing stories.

"It's been a while since we've done something like this," Tenzou said, smiling softly.

"Yeah," Akirai agreed. "It's nice to take a break."

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the forest came alive with the sounds of nocturnal creatures. The group huddled closer to the fire, their bonds stronger than ever.

For Kaiton, this was a reminder that even amidst rigorous training and lofty ambitions, moments like these were equally important.

And so, under the starlit sky of the Death Forest, they laughed, ate, and forged memories they would carry forever.

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