NARUTO: In the Era of Sannin

With exhaustion weighing down every step, Yuichi forced his body to keep moving as he ran to complete the final lap of his self-imposed training regimen.

Sweat dripped down his brow, soaking his clothes, and his legs felt like they were made of lead. Yet, he pushed through. This wasn't the first time he'd trained himself to the brink of collapse, and it wouldn't be the last.

"Fuuu… just one more session of self-improvement. I really need to focus on the Rasengan too and finish it soon. It's so close… maybe I can complete it within the month," Yuichi murmured to himself, his words barely audible as he jogged in autopilot mode. His mind was already planning the next steps of his training when a firm hand suddenly grabbed his arm, halting his stride.

"Hey! I've been calling you, so why are you ignoring me? And what are you mumbling about?"

Startled, Yuichi looked up to see Tsunade standing in front of him, her arms crossed and a slight frown on her face. Her usual commanding aura was softened by the faint flush on her cheeks, likely from her own training.

"Ah, sorry about that," Yuichi said sheepishly, his fatigue making his voice sound even more subdued but he kept a hold of his expressions. 

"I was… uh, just thinking about something. What are you doing here? On a jog?" He couldn't help but glance at her from head to toe, noting her casual yet confident stance.

"Hmm," Tsunade nodded, her expression easing a bit. "Today's my first C-rank mission. I'll be escorting a VIP on their journey. I thought a jog would help clear my mind before heading out." 

Her voice carried a mix of pride and nerves as she explained. Despite her usual composed demeanor, there was a hint of anticipation in her tone.

Yuichi took a moment to process her words. His body screamed at him to rest, but he could sense that Tsunade was waiting for some form of acknowledgment. 

He summoned his last reserves of energy and smiled faintly. "That's great, Tsuna- Tsunade… Best of luck on your mission." 

He hesitated, then added with a teasing edge, "Actually, I'm pretty drained right now, so forgive me if I'm not as enthusiastic. How about I make it up to you later with a meal?"

Tsunade's eyes widened briefly before a faint blush crept up her cheeks. "Hmm… though your expression doesn't exactly scream exhaustion, I'll let it slide this time. Also, it's Tsunade, not Tsuna. But… if you really want, I'll let you call me that." 

Her words stumbled slightly, and before Yuichi could respond, she turned on her heel. "Let's meet later. Bye."

As she walked away, her movements quickened as though she were fleeing the scene. Yuichi blinked in surprise before a small grin tugged at his lips. "Was she embarrassed?" he murmured to himself. 

The thought amused him, and for a moment, the fatigue seemed to fade. "Alright, let's get home. I need to rest."

***

(two days later)

The next couple of days passed uneventfully as Yuichi focused on recuperating and refining his training. Now, he stood outside the Hokage Mansion alongside his teammates Sakumo and Mio, waiting for their first mission outside the village.

The mission assignment process in Konoha was well-organized but hierarchical. Missions of high importance, those impacting the village's security or involving delicate diplomacy, were often handed out directly by the Hokage. 

Meanwhile, lower-ranked or routine missions were divided into two categories: those that could be completed within the village and those requiring travel. For the latter, genin teams had to enter the mission assignment room to ensure they met the qualifications.

Sakumo, being the eager one, practically buzzed with excitement. "It's finally our turn! Isn't this awesome? Our first mission outside the village!"

Yuichi gave him a calm look, his older mental age tempering any excitement. "It's about time. Most of our peers have already completed their first missions outside the village."

Mio rolled her eyes, her voice laced with dry humor. "Why are you fussing over something so simple? Sometimes I wonder if you're really a few years older than us, Sakumo."

The comment hit Sakumo like a dart, deflating his enthusiasm momentarily. Before he could retort, their sensei Kagami interrupted in a firm tone. "No chit-chat. It's our turn."

The three genin followed Kagami into the mission assignment room. Inside, the air was heavy with authority, and at the center of it all sat Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, reviewing a stack of mission scrolls.

To the genin's surprise, Kagami's serious demeanor melted away as he addressed Hiruzen casually. "Hey, Hiruzen, if you're this free, why don't you join me for drinks tonight?"

Hiruzen looked up, momentarily startled before a faint smile crossed his face. "Kagami, didn't I tell you I was out with my team recently? Let's save that conversation for later. For now, here's a mission I think will suit your squad." He handed a scroll to Kagami.

Kagami skimmed the scroll quickly, nodding in approval. "This works. We'll head out tomorrow morning and try to return as soon as possible. And yes, we're definitely having drinks tonight." He flashed a grin at Hiruzen, who responded with a subtle nod, maintaining his composed exterior.

Outside the Hokage Mansion, Kagami gathered his team and detailed the mission. "We're heading to the Land of Grains. The villagers there have been dealing with a surge in wild boar attacks, likely caused by a chakra beast disrupting the local ecosystem. We'll investigate and handle the situation."

He paused, letting the information sink in. "We'll also be joined by a genin squad from Uzushiogakure. This is a great opportunity for you all to interact and build relationships with our allies. Remember, teamwork isn't limited to just your village."

Mio's usually relaxed demeanor shifted as she pulled out a notebook and began furiously jotting down notes. Kagami chuckled lightly. "No need to overthink it, Mio. Just pack a couple of changes of clothes, basic supplies, and any tools you might need. The rest will be covered in the field."

Despite his reassurance, Mio continued her meticulous preparations, leaving Sakumo and Yuichi exchanging amused glances.

*

Later that evening, Yuichi had a scheduled meeting with someone, a continuation of his promise to keep pushing forward. 

His thoughts wandered briefly to Tsunade and their earlier interaction. A small smile crept onto his face as he prepared for the next day's mission, knowing that every step brought him closer to his goals. 

And perhaps, closer to understanding the people around him who made this second life so worthwhile.