Naruto Shadow Mage - Chapter 33

Bearing the title of genius and being the top new generation of the Nara Clan, Koshino’s benefits within the clan extended beyond mere training resources; he also had considerable advantages in terms of information.

Whenever something noteworthy happened in Konoha, Shikaku would often inform Koshino to nurture his growth, sometimes using the information as a way to test Koshino’s thinking.

The “temporary worker” plan devised by the Fourth Hokage was something Koshino had known about for a while.

However, Koshino had never expected that, at just four years old and without having attended the ninja academy, he would be included in the plan through the Fourth Hokage’s deliberate arrangements.

Alright, it’s necessary to explain the Fourth Hokage’s “temporary worker” plan.

To gather the young geniuses of Konoha and form his power base, the Fourth Hokage, with the approval of the Third Hokage, aimed to assemble some elite members into his Anbu. However, these recruited elites wouldn’t have the official Anbu status and wouldn’t need to undergo the preliminary training required for becoming an Anbu.

The true purpose of the Fourth Hokage was to include talented ninjas like Koshino and Guy in his ranks, imprinting them with his mark. Additionally, he intended to temper these elites on the battlefield, helping them become fully-fledged ninjas through real combat experience.

When watching the original storyline, Koshino had a thought: ninjas who hadn’t participated in wars were far inferior to those who had.

So, when Shikaku explained the Fourth Hokage’s “temporary worker” plan, Koshino was highly supportive. But when Koshino expressed his desire to join the plan, Shikaku’s previously smiling face turned grim, and he smacked his head to give Koshino a stern warning.

“Don’t be foolish!”

“Koshino, Minato’s idea is good, but do you know how difficult it is to execute?”

“Leaving aside whether these recruited elites can handle the battlefield’s atmosphere if they all perish in combat, wouldn’t our village’s new generation be wiped out? And who can predict the course of the battlefield or ensure our plans remain undiscovered?”

“So, Koshino, if Minato plans to summon you to the battlefield, you must refuse immediately! The clan will arrange for your battlefield training in the future, so don’t worry. But remember, if anyone persuades you to enter the battlefield, even if it’s Uncle Choza or Uncle Inoichi, suspect their motives, understand?”

Initially, when Shikaku finished speaking, Koshino thought he was overreacting. But upon reflection at home, Koshino realized there were indeed risks to joining the battlefield early. So, despite outwardly agreeing with the Fourth Hokage’s “temporary worker” plan, Koshino began to have doubts about its viability.

Today, after facing the Anbu ambush and meeting the renowned Kakashi, Koshino, and Guy became part of the Fourth Hokage’s plan.

Watching Guy’s excitement, Koshino felt a mix of emotions.

Clearly, Yoshiya was excited about the idea of soon joining the battlefield under the Fourth Hokage’s command.

After all, he had gained some renown in Konoha, but on the battlefield, he was merely another novice.

Moreover, Koshino knew he could improve more significantly in the dangerous environment of the battlefield.

He had felt his progress slowing down in Konoha, so to challenge a Jonin, Koshino needed a more dangerous setting to hone his skills.

But Shikaku’s warnings made Koshino wary.

Thinking pessimistically, Koshino considered that while the Fourth Hokage might protect him, the Uchiha clan might use every means to ensure his downfall on the battlefield. This uncertainty made Koshino hurry back home to consult Shikaku.

When Koshino arrived at Shikaku’s room, he was surprised to see another familiar figure already there.

The Fourth Hokage!

“Koshino, you’re back?”

“Your performance earlier was impeccable. I was just discussing it with Shikaku.”

With a gentle smile, the Fourth Hokage waved Koshino over.

Respectfully, Koshino greeted his teacher and sat beside Shikaku.

After some casual conversation, the topic eventually shifted to Koshino’s participation in the “temporary worker” plan.

“Minato, are you sure? Koshino is only four years old. Is it really okay for him to train on the battlefield?”

“Don’t worry, Shikaku. It’s just to let Koshino experience the battlefield’s atmosphere, not to engage in actual combat.”

Maintaining his warm smile, the Fourth Hokage glanced at Koshino and reassured Shikaku, “I understand your concerns, Shikaku. But don’t forget, this is both a danger and an opportunity. Koshino could potentially become an even greater ninja than Kakashi, surpassing him to be the youngest Jonin in the village.”

“Besides, I plan to train Koshino before he enters the battlefield.”

“Three days should be sufficient, given Koshino’s talent.”

“Shikaku, with all this in place, surely you can’t refuse me?”

Seeing the Fourth Hokage’s sincerity and considering the Nara clan’s legacy of guarding the Hokage, Shikaku finally nodded in agreement, allowing Koshino to join the “temporary worker” plan.

Before leaving, the Fourth Hokage handed Koshino a scroll containing basic Anbu gear and informed him of the meeting time the next day, then quickly departed.

However, as the Fourth Hokage left, Koshino barely registered his parting words because, at that moment, the APP’s voice echoed in his mind once more!

Ding!
“Research complete!”

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