He deliberately kept his abilities and reaction speed just slightly above Rin's level, enough to respond to her attacks while still applying pressure, pushing her to improve without overwhelming her completely.
Before long, Rin's breathing began to grow uneven.
The consumption of Tailed Beast chakra was far greater than she had imagined, and that power constantly struggled against her control, as if it wanted to break free at any moment.
She could feel the restlessness deep within her heart, that urge to release more, to destroy more.
"Water Release: Water Dragon Bullet Technique!"
Another water dragon surged up from the ground, but this time its size expanded dramatically.
The dragon let out a deep, rumbling roar as it lunged toward Kiyohara, moving much faster than before.
"Fire Release: Great Fire Annihilation!"
A blazing torrent of flames poured from his mouth like a cascading waterfall, instantly colliding with the water dragon.
This clash was far more violent than any before.
When water and fire met, what erupted was not steam, but an explosion.
A massive shockwave spread outward from the point of impact, stirring up a fierce gale that swept the dirt from the ground into the air, forming a brief but intense dust storm.
Rin was knocked back several steps by the shockwave before falling onto the ground with a thud.
"Are you alright?"
Kiyohara had only used a fraction of his true strength, yet Rin was already struggling to hold on.
Her talent in combat was somewhat ordinary, and even with the power of a Tailed Beast, she was not yet adept at using it effectively.
Hearing his voice, Rin lifted her head.
"I'm fine… it's just that my chakra consumption is a bit too high."
Kiyohara crouched down in front of her and carefully examined her condition.
There was a burn on her left shoulder, caused by the residual heat of the flames from earlier.
Even his Fire Release: Great Fireball Technique could cover a range of about ten meters, and just now he had used Great Fire Annihilation, which expanded the range several times over.
The wound was not deep, but her skin was reddened, with faint blisters forming along the edges.
"A minor burn," Kiyohara said. "I'll treat it for you."
He extended his right hand, and green medical chakra gathered in his palm.
The ordinary Mystical Palm Technique, when performed by Kiyohara, was more effective than that of many medical jonin.
Rin did not refuse.
She watched as his hand approached her shoulder.
The moment the life-filled Yang Release chakra touched her skin, a cool sensation spread through her body, easing the burning pain.
She could smell the faint scent coming from him, and suddenly she felt her cheeks growing hot, her heartbeat quickening without her realizing it.
Thump, thump.
"What's wrong?"
Kiyohara noticed something unusual.
"Your heart is beating so fast. Are you feeling unwell somewhere?"
"N-no… it's nothing."
Rin shook her head in a fluster, but the movement was too large and tugged at her wound, making her inhale sharply.
"Don't move."
Kiyohara pressed gently on her shoulder.
"It'll be done soon."
His palm was warm, and even through the thin white coat she wore, Rin could clearly feel that warmth.
Her face grew even hotter, as if it were being roasted over a flame.
This reaction left her both confused and embarrassed. It was clearly just treatment, just ordinary physical contact, so why was she so nervous?
She had been treated like this before, yet she had never felt this way.
Kiyohara continued healing her wound.
When he looked up, he noticed that Rin had lowered her head, her cheeks flushed red, her eyelashes trembling slightly.
"All done."
Kiyohara withdrew his hand.
"For the next couple of days, try not to let it get wet."
"Thank you," Rin said softly, still not daring to lift her head.
Kiyohara stood up and brushed the sand off his clothes. "You've improved a lot. Your control over the Tailed Beast chakra is better than I expected, you just need more practice to stabilize it."
Only then did Rin raise her head, though the blush on her face had not completely faded.
"I… I'll keep working hard."
"Don't push yourself too much," Kiyohara replied.
"Mhm."
Rin nodded and finally stood up.
Her legs still felt weak, partly due to excessive chakra consumption, and partly because of the tension she had just experienced.
Seeing her swaying slightly, Kiyohara extended his hand. "Do you want me to support you?"
"No, no, it's fine!"
Rin waved her hands hastily, but almost lost her balance and instinctively grabbed his arm to steady herself.
The moment their hands made contact, she felt as if she had been shocked and tried to pull back, but Kiyohara had already grasped her wrist.
"I'll walk you back," he said.
Rin did not resist anymore.
She allowed him to support her as they slowly walked out of the training ground.
"Kiyohara-kun…"
She spoke softly.
"What are your plans next?"
She asked, trying to distract herself.
"I'll be heading to the Land of the Sea."
"The Land of the Sea? That island country?"
"Yes. There have been reports of a large sea monster attacking fishing boats. Tsunade-sensei and I accepted a mission to investigate."
Kiyohara paused for a moment.
"Besides that, I'm also interested in the Summoning Island there."
"Summoning Island…"
Rin recalled the geography lessons from the shinobi academy.
"It's said to be a gathering place for summoning beasts, with many rare species."
"Exactly. I want to take a look. Maybe I'll find a suitable summoning beast."
Rin nodded.
Most shinobi would establish a contract with a summoning beast. Whether for combat support, intelligence gathering, or special abilities, summoning beasts were invaluable allies.
"Then… be careful," Rin said softly.
"The Land of the Sea is far away, and missions across the ocean always come with many uncertainties."
"I will."
Kiyohara nodded.
"However, I can ask Tsunade-sensei if you can come along as well."
"?"
Rin did not expect him to say that.
"Really?"
Her eyes lit up with hope.
"Of course."
Kiyohara nodded.
The environment of the Land of the Sea would be very suitable for training Water Release techniques.
As they talked, they soon arrived at Rin's home. It was an ordinary two story house, similar to most shinobi residences in Konoha.
Warm light shone from the windows, indicating that her parents were probably home.
"We're here."
Kiyohara released her hand.
As the warmth on her wrist disappeared, Rin suddenly felt an inexplicable sense of loss.
She unconsciously held her wrist, as if his touch still lingered there.
"Thank you for walking me back," Rin said.
"Go inside and get some rest," Kiyohara replied.
Rin nodded and turned to open the door, but then paused.
"Kiyohara-kun…"
She gathered her courage.
"After this… can we spar again? I want… I want to become stronger."
Kiyohara smiled faintly.
"Of course. Anytime."
The smile was subtle, yet it made Rin's heart start racing once again.
She hurriedly turned around, opened the door, and rushed inside as if fleeing.
The door closed behind her. She leaned against it, breathing heavily, her face so hot it felt as though it might catch fire.
Outside, Kiyohara stood there for a moment before turning and leaving.
Rin's progress had indeed been remarkable, especially her control over the Tailed Beast chakra, which had already reached a fairly good level.
Although she still could not fully utilize the power of the Three Tails, at least she would not lose control easily.
For her, this was an important breakthrough. As a jinchuriki, mastering the power of the Tailed Beast was a hurdle she had to overcome.
Kiyohara quickened his pace and headed toward Tsunade's house.
At the same time, inside Rin's home,
After washing up and changing into her pajamas, Rin sat on the edge of her bed.
In her hand was a strawberry, the largest and reddest one from the bag she had bought earlier that day.
She did not eat it, only stared at it as her thoughts drifted back to everything that had just happened.
Bringing the strawberry close to her nose, the fresh fruity aroma calmed her slightly.
She took a small bite, and the sweet juice spread through her mouth, yet for some reason, she felt that its taste was not as sweet as the one she had shared with Kiyohara earlier.
"What's wrong with me…"
She murmured softly, her fingers unconsciously brushing over her wrist.
Her heartbeat was still fast.
Her cheeks were still burning.
And the image of Kiyohara lingered stubbornly in her mind, refusing to fade.
Rin lay down on her bed and pulled the blanket over her head, hiding herself completely beneath it.
She tossed and turned for a long time, her thoughts restless and tangled, and it was not until deep into the night that exhaustion finally overtook her and she fell asleep.
When Kiyohara returned, the kitchen was brightly lit. Shizune had already come back and was helping with the cooking.
"Welcome back, Kiyohara-kun!"
Shizune took the ingredients from him.
"Lady Tsunade is in the living room. She said she's waiting for you to make tender chicken."
Kiyohara glanced toward the living room. Tsunade was sprawled lazily on the sofa, holding a gambling book in her hands, but her gaze was unfocused, clearly on the verge of falling asleep.
He shook his head, tied on an apron, and began to get to work.
Before long, the aroma of food slowly filled the air.
At dinner, the four of them sat around the table.
Tsunade was in an excellent mood, not only because the negotiations had been successful, but also because of the table full of delicious dishes in front of her.
"Oh right, Shizune," Tsunade suddenly said.
"Kiyohara and I have taken a mission to the Land of the Sea. We leave the day after tomorrow. Remember to inform Kurenai."
"I understand, Lady Tsunade."
Shizune paused briefly before continuing, "But I've heard that the Land of the Sea is rather chaotic. There are pirates, rogue shinobi, and all kinds of giant beasts."
"That's exactly why we're going," Kiyohara said with a faint smile.
"Don't worry. With me there, nothing will happen."
Tsunade lifted her chin proudly. "Shizune, although Kiyohara is your junior, his strength is quite formidable."
In Tsunade's eyes, Kiyohara was fully capable of inheriting her legacy.
If even Kiyohara could not do it, then among the current shinobi of Konoha, she did not think anyone else could.
Even if she were to teach out the method of the Strength of a Hundred Seal, very few people would be able to learn it, not to mention inheriting her medical ninjutsu as well.
fuinjutsu and medical ninjutsu were two entirely different systems.
"By the way, sensei, can Rin come along with us as well?" Kiyohara asked.
He explained that this would help train Rin's control over the power of the Tailed Beast.
After all, the Three Tails provided a boost to Water Release techniques.
"This is something I need to think about," Tsunade replied, not giving an immediate answer.
After all, Tailed Beasts were extremely important to the village.
Although the Tailed Beast within Rin came from Kirigakure, it was still an indispensable combat force for Konoha at present.
"I understand," Kiyohara nodded.
It was only natural that Tsunade would consider it carefully.
He knew exactly what she was concerned about. At present, Uzumaki Kyoko was far away on the battlefield.
Previously, Rin had been allowed to go out only because Kyoko had been there to watch over her.
As the jinchuriki of the Three Tails, Rin's safety was of utmost importance.
But precisely because of that, she needed real combat experience even more.
If not for Hiruzen and Tsunade in the original timeline, Naruto would likely have been placed under strict confinement, just like Kushina, forbidden from leaving the barrier unless he had completely mastered the Nine Tails.
The next day,
As the morning light filtered through the window and into the room, Kiyohara had already completed his daily basic training.
He stood in the courtyard, slowly sheathing the shinobi blade in his hand.
He had just finished practicing the kenjutsu he had copied from Hanzo.
Hanzo's sword release carried the characteristics of the Land of Rain, leaning toward cunning and ruthlessness, with many moves designed to be vicious and lethal.
But Kiyohara did not mind. As long as it was effective, that was enough.
It also gave him the opportunity to further refine his own kenjutsu.
"Kiyohara."
Tsunade's voice came from behind him.
She was wearing a white nightgown that outlined her figure, her long golden hair falling loosely over her shoulders, her face still carrying the lazy softness of someone who had just woken up.
"Sensei."
Kiyohara turned to face her.
Tsunade walked up to him and carefully looked over her disciple.
At some point, his height had already surpassed hers by quite a bit. His shoulders were broad, his figure tall and well proportioned.
"I've thought about the matter regarding Rin," Tsunade said slowly.
"I think you're right. That child needs real combat experience to master the power of the Tailed Beast. Keeping her protected within the village will only limit her growth."
"Does that mean you agree, sensei?"
"Yes, but…"
Tsunade changed her tone.
"This matter must be reported to the old man. Rin is a jinchuriki, so her leaving the village requires the Hokage's approval. Additionally, I will personally be responsible for her safety, and you must also keep a close eye on her."
"I understand."
Kiyohara spoke seriously.
"I will ensure Rin's safety."
Tsunade nodded, then turned and walked back toward the house. After taking a few steps, she stopped again.
"Oh, right. Go tell Rin today so she can make preparations."
"Yes."
Soon, Kiyohara received confirmation.
Tsunade informed him that Hiruzen had approved the request, but Kiyohara was required to keep strict watch over Rin.
Kiyohara guessed that his performance during the trip to the Land of Rain had given the village great confidence in him.
He then headed toward Training Ground Three.
Rin liked to practice her ninjutsu there.
Before long, Kiyohara arrived.
From a distance, he spotted Rin.
She was currently practicing Water Release techniques.
In front of her was a specially made target composed of multiple layers of water soaked leather and wooden boards, specifically designed to test the penetrating power of Water Release jutsu.
"Water Release: Water Fang Bullet!"
Rin formed hand seals, condensing a spiraling stream of water.
The stream was as thin as a finger, yet it possessed terrifying cutting power, instantly piercing through three layers of leather and two layers of wooden boards.
"Ha…"
Rin stopped, breathing heavily.
She had repeated the technique many times, and her chakra was already more than half depleted.
"Your control has improved."
A familiar voice sounded from behind her.
Rin turned around in surprise and delight, seeing Kiyohara standing at the entrance of the training ground.
"Kiyohara-kun!"
She ran toward him.
"That Water Release technique just now had good penetrating power," Kiyohara evaluated.
"I see."
Rin smiled slightly at the praise.
"By the way, what brings you here, Kiyohara-kun?" she asked curiously.
"I came to inform you of something."
Kiyohara looked at her.
"I spoke with Tsunade-sensei. You can come with us to the Land of the Sea."
Rin froze.
Her eyes slowly widened, her lips parting slightly.
"R-really?"
"Of course. Tsunade-sensei has already agreed, and the Hokage has approved the request as well."
Kiyohara smiled.
"We leave early the day after tomorrow. Use these two days to prepare. The Land of the Sea is an island country with a humid and hot climate, so bring extra clothes to change into. Also, the sea voyage may take several days, so make sure to prepare motion sickness medicine."
Rin nodded vigorously.
She had not expected Kiyohara to actually make it happen, nor had she expected the Hokage to approve it.
"This mission might not be easy. The sea monster attacks in the Land of the Sea may have more complicated factors behind them, so be mentally prepared."
"I understand."
Rin clenched her fists.
"I'll do my best. I won't hold everyone back."
"Then let's continue training today," Kiyohara said.
"I'll accompany you."
Time passed in the blink of an eye until the day of departure arrived.
At the gates of Konoha,
Beside the two gate guards stood Kiyohara and his group.
Tsunade stood at the front, a shinobi tool pouch hanging at her waist.
Kiyohara stood at her side, carrying his usual shinobi blade on his back, with an additional pouch at his waist containing not only standard weapons but also special antidotes and medical supplies prepared by Tsunade.
Kurenai and Shizune stood on the other side.
Rin was the last to arrive. She jogged over, her cheeks slightly flushed.
"S-sorry, am I late?"
"No, just in time."
Tsunade glanced at the sky.
"Everyone's here. Let's go."
The five of them left the gates of Konoha and proceeded along a forest path toward the southeast.
Their first destination was a port town in the southeastern part of the Land of Fire, Tide Town, where they would board a ship to the Land of the Sea.
Along the way, Tsunade walked at the front, Kiyohara brought up the rear, and the three girls stayed in the middle.
Rin appeared somewhat nervous. This was her first time going to the Land of the Sea on a mission.
"Where did you go for your first mission, Kurenai?" Rin asked along the way.
"The Land of Rivers. It was a C rank mission to escort a merchant caravan," Kurenai recalled.
"At the time, I went together with Kiyohara and Genma."
"And then?"
"And then…"
Kurenai blinked.
"We dealt with all the enemies together, and Kiyohara was already the same as he is now, always fond of searching the bodies of enemies."
As she spoke, she glanced back at Kiyohara.
He was vigilantly observing their surroundings. Sensing her gaze, he gave a slight nod in acknowledgment.
Rin followed her line of sight.
"Kiyohara-kun… has always been like that?"
"Mm."
Kurenai nodded.
Kiyohara was short on money to the core.
Kurenai even suspected that if he were ever truly desperate for money, he might end up selling his blood or even finding a wealthy woman to support him.
With Kiyohara's looks, finding such a patron would probably not be difficult.
"It feels a bit similar to Lady Tsunade," Shizune whispered softly, noticing that Tsunade and Kiyohara were both walking at the front.
The three girls chatted quietly, and the atmosphere gradually became more lively.
Two days later, at the port of Tide Town,
The sea breeze carried a salty, humid scent as it blew toward them, and ships of all sizes were docked at the harbor.
Fishing boats, cargo ships, and passenger vessels filled the port, their masts standing like a forest, sails overlapping one another.
Tsunade's group arrived at their designated berth, where a medium sized sailing ship was already waiting.
The hull was painted a deep blue, with wave patterns carved into the bow, and it appeared to be well maintained.
"So this is the ship we rented?" Kurenai asked curiously as she looked it over.
"Yes, the Seagull. The captain is an old sailor who has been sailing these waters for decades," Tsunade replied, then called out toward the ship, "Granny Shimahui, are you there?"
A figure emerged from within the cabin.
(End of Chapter)