vstars Chapter 591 You're still young
Chapter 591 You're still young
She asked again, uncertainly, "You're still young, and the summoning beast you choose can't be changed, especially since mine is quite special. Are you sure?"
Zhang Hai nodded frantically and said resolutely, "I am absolutely certain! I will not change my mind!" What he was thinking was that although he was young, if he did not choose the slug, given Tsunade's practice of using him as a "poison experiment subject," he didn't know if he would have any future left.
Zhang Hai looked at the smooth, warm, and jade-like little thing in his palm, and his feelings were somewhat complicated.
Slug, one of the five great summoning beasts, is known for its unique medical ninjutsu and powerful sensory abilities. He was probably "experimented" with by Tsunade's rough treatment methods, but the value of this summoning beast made him feel that this deal was very worthwhile.
"Please guide me in the future, Lord Slug." A sincere smile appeared on Zhang Hai's lips. The slug in his palm seemed to sense his kindness, wriggling slightly and making a soft "gurgling" sound, as if affirming his words.
"You... are very special." The slug's voice entered Zhang Hai's mind directly, carrying a hint of curiosity and scrutiny. "Most people would be thrilled to receive my psychic contract, but you are so calm, even... seemingly helpless. Why are you cultivating so desperately?"
Upon hearing this, Zhang Hai's smile froze slightly. The question had come so suddenly, striking at the deepest, most hidden corner of his heart. He was stunned, his eyes glazed over, and after a moment of contemplation, countless images flashed through his mind, finally settling on a towering figure.
"I want to become...someone like the First Hokage." Zhang Hai spoke softly, his tone carrying a hint of unwavering determination. He didn't mention the terrifying Wood Release, nor the immense power that could shake the entire ninja world; he simply said "someone like that."
After hearing this, the slug remained silent for a moment, then the voice in its mind sounded again, this time with a hint of admiration: "The First Hokage? That is truly... a great and lofty ideal."
Zhang Hai simply smiled, saying nothing more. The slug's praise stirred something within him, but his true thoughts were far grander and more "selfish" than what he expressed. He wanted to possess the same power as the First Hokage, a power strong enough to suppress all who dared to defy him. Then, he would unify the entire ninja world, completely quelling the endless wars and rendering the division of the Five Great Nations meaningless. He was weary of bloodshed, weary of sacrifice; he wanted to force peace upon the world in the most direct and violent way. And when everything settled, when the bells of peace truly tolled, he would retire gracefully, find a secluded valley, build a house facing the sea, and enjoy his own peaceful and happy life.
Unbeknownst to him, Tsunade, who had fallen into a deep sleep due to exhaustion, relaxed her tightly furrowed brows and a faint, slightly amused smile unconsciously appeared on her lips when she heard the words, "I want to become someone like the First Hokage." That smile seemed to be a premonition of Zhang Hai's future, or perhaps a sense of satisfaction with some kind of legacy.
Time passed quietly until dawn broke, and the morning light streamed through the windows, illuminating the messy herbs and experimental equipment inside.
"Zhang Hai, someone is looking for you. The Third Hokage has something to discuss." A young ninja's voice came from outside the door, carrying a hint of respect.
Zhang Hai, who was engrossed in studying a poison formula, paused slightly in his finger movements. Tsunade, who was beside him, also stopped using her pestle, and the two of them looked up at the same time, their faces showing a hint of surprise.
Tsunade looked at Zhang Hai with a puzzled expression, her eyes seemingly asking silently: What does the Third Hokage want with a kid like you who has only recently been promoted to Chunin?
Zhang Hai was equally baffled. He shrugged, indicating that he had no idea either. He considered himself an ordinary ninja, who, apart from doing some poison research under Tsunade and occasionally going on small missions, couldn't think of anything that could alarm the Hokage.
"Go quickly, don't keep the old man waiting." Tsunade patted Zhang Hai on the shoulder, her tone carrying an unquestionable command, but a hint of curiosity flashed in her eyes. "I can manage here by myself."
"I'll be right back!" Zhang Hai replied, composed himself, quickly got up, straightened his clothes, and strode out.
Since acquiring the slug, Zhang Hai's interest in poisons has grown exponentially. Previously, he only had a superficial understanding of the lethality of poisons, but now, under Tsunade's tutelage, his understanding of toxins has advanced by leaps and bounds. Tsunade not only taught him how to precisely concoct deadly poisons, but more importantly, she showed him the infinite possibilities of toxins in medicine, intelligence, and even battlefield control. He began to immerse himself in the study of the toxicity of various plants, minerals, and even animals; the mystery of controlling the edge of life and death fascinated him.
After navigating several streets of Konoha, Zhang Hai quickly arrived at the Hokage's office. Pushing open the door, he saw the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, still maintaining his meticulous posture, buried in a mountain of documents. His hair was completely white, and the deep wrinkles on his forehead showed the immense energy the old man expended daily and the heavy pressure he endured. Even so, he still sat firmly at the center of power in this world, protecting the peace of Konoha.
Hearing the door open, the Third Hokage slowly raised his head. When he saw Zhang Hai enter, a kind smile appeared on his weathered face, and the wrinkles at the corners of his eyes smoothed out.
"Isn't it strange that I suddenly contacted you?" The Third Hokage's voice was slightly hoarse, but his tone was exceptionally kind.
Zhang Hai sighed, feigning surprise, and bowed, saying, "Reporting to the Hokage, I am indeed puzzled. I am merely a Chunin, and usually only perform small tasks within my capabilities. To suddenly be summoned by the Hokage is a great honor." His words were half true and half false; in truth, he had a vague idea of what was going on—that he had simply performed exceptionally well on a certain mission.
The Third Hokage smiled and waved his hand, indicating that there was no need for formalities. His gaze fell on Zhang Hai, carrying a mixture of scrutiny and admiration. "You are quite modest. Actually, I have been observing you for a long time. You are very composed and resilient. But what really made me decide to summon you was the intelligence work you completed last time."
Zhang Hai was taken aback. The intelligence work from last time?