"Because at the end of last year, didn't the village discuss some cooperation with the Shion Flower Company from the Land of Demons? They wanted to arrange some trainees interested in medical ninjutsu to study medical ninjutsu at our Ninja School in Konoha."
"But wasn't that supposed to be in April?"
This matter was approved by Tsunade, so naturally, there would be no opposition from the Konoha high officials.
After all, the Land of Demons is a Neutral Country and doesn't participate in the Ninja Realm wars. The commercial exchanges between both sides have been quite harmonious, and the medicines and medical supplies produced by the Shion Flower Company have eased a lot of pressure on Konoha Hospital.
However, the decision to have people from the Land of Demons come to Konoha to learn medical ninjutsu should start in April.
"Just preparing in advance, since there are many vacant classrooms in the school, Tsunade-sama arranged some people to tidy them up when she had nothing else to do."
"It seems Tsunade-sensei values this quite a bit."
Hakushi asked intentionally or unintentionally.
"Yes, because Tsunade-sama mentioned that the research data on medicines exchanged by the Shion Flower with Konoha is quite beneficial for us, and it's considered a normal return."
Shizune thought back and answered Hakushi's question.
Soon, as Shizune said, Tsunade came from the opposite side of the corridor.
"Here on time again today, huh?"
"It's the first day after the New Year's holiday, after all."
"Oh, is that so? Let me take a look."
Tsunade looked Hakushi over with interest, as if she had discovered something fascinating.
"What's the matter, Tsunade-sensei?"
Hakushi felt a bit unnatural being stared at and couldn't help but ask.
"The scent of a woman."
Tsunade answered with certainty.
"..."
Dog nose? Hakushi silently ridiculed.
During the holiday, he had been glued to Ruri constantly, even until lunchtime today, they were that intensely close.
And after the release, young men and women naturally didn't possess such mature calmness, suddenly just...
Cough cough.
"There is no need to say such a thing."
"You really are a young brat." Tsunade smiled teasingly and nudged Hakushi's body with her elbow: "So, when are you planning to treat me to a meal?"
"That sort of thing is still a bit far off, since Ruri's parents are not at home."
"Is that so? That's a bit unfortunate."
"Tsunade-sama, Hakushi-senpai, what are you talking about? I don't understand at all."
Shizune asked with a bewildered expression.
"You'll understand later, Shizune."
"Oh."
Shizune thought for a while but still didn't understand, she followed Tsunade into the office, holding the apology gift Hakushi gave her.
"Back to business, the delegation from the Land of Demons is expected to arrive in Konoha around April. To maintain the friendship between the two countries, I've already recommended you to Teacher Sarutobi as the dedicated instructor for the second medical ninja experimental class. Do you have any requests?"
Tsunade sat in the chair and her expression became serious.
"I am very grateful for Tsunade-sensei's trust, just arrange an assistant for me when the time comes."
"No problem, I'll have Shizune assist you then."
Hakushi and Shizune had no objections.
"By the way, you really have guts; last time you left Shizune sitting alone at the BBQ stall until midnight..."
Tsunade recalled this, and her smile turned a bit sardonic.
"I've already bought an expensive gift as an apology, but last time the situation was really a bit sudden..."
Hakushi dared not meet Tsunade's eyes, his voice growing smaller as he explained.
"Forget it, as you've recognized your mistake; I'll generously forgive you this time. But, you don't need to attend today's lesson, okay?"
"Eh? Am I being dismissed?"
Hakushi was taken aback.
"Not dismissed, just no need for you to give a lesson today."
"What's going on?"
Hakushi didn't quite understand.
This isn't punishment, right? Calling it a reward... is also a bit strange.
"On my way here, I ran into Minato. He said he needs to have a talk with you, he's waiting for you at the school gate, go over there."
"Minato?"
Hakushi was even more puzzled.
Namikaze Minato? Why is he looking for me?
Because of performing duties alongside Tsunade, Hakushi had met all three Sannin and though not familiar, they exchanged greetings and considered each other acquaintances.
Being the same entry student, and also as a direct disciple of Sannin Jiraiya, Hakushi and Minato's relationship was good enough for casual conversations whenever they occasionally met.
However, these conversations were trivial chit-chats, not deep insights into any profound subjects.
"I don't know what he wants from you, go find out."
"Fair enough."
Hakushi nodded.
Looks like he really won't be attending class with Tsunade today.
After saying goodbye to Tsunade and Shizune, Hakushi headed towards the Ninja School entrance, where he indeed saw Minato waiting for him.
Wearing Konoha's Jonin ninja suit, his yellow hair dazzling like the sun, and his smile was always bright; he was the ideal man in the eyes of many women.
In comparison, Hakushi felt he appeared rather ordinary.
Minato almost simultaneously became a Jonin along with Ruri and Ayane, and with a nearly 100% mission completion rate, he was practically the leading ninja of his generation.
Even many veteran Jonin praised him, showing no jealousy towards his outstanding talent.