Konoha’s White Fang Shines

Chapter 19: Accelerated Training

In the original story, Kakashi graduated early because of his father's death. But now, even though his father is alive, he still graduated ahead of time.

The exact reasons behind this are unclear, but it was enough to motivate Genma Shiranui—along with many others in their class.

"I can't believe my eternal rival has become a genin so quickly. I must train even harder!"

"That blasted Kakashi! He didn't even duel me before graduating. Clearly, he was scared of me! Yeah, that's got to be it!"

"Oh my gosh, Kakashi graduated! He's so amazing, just as I expected from the guy I have a crush on. Eeeek!"

"I can't believe Kakashi actually graduated. As much as I hate to admit it, his talent is on a level that's almost hopeless to catch up to."

As the class buzzed with excitement about Kakashi's early graduation, Kurenai couldn't help but notice Genma reading a book with uncharacteristic focus. Her curiosity got the better of her, and she began to stare.

Noticing Kurenai's gaze, Genma closed his book with a soft thud, smiling warmly. "What is it? Is there something on my face, or are you just admiring this handsome guy?"

"Don't be ridiculous!" Kurenai pouted, turning her attention back to her own book. "Normally, you'd be napping during breaks. But today, you seem full of energy. Even the dark circles under your eyes are lighter."

"Hehe, I didn't think you cared so much about me, Kurenai. Well, I finally completed a personal training regimen yesterday, so no more late-night training for me." Genma rubbed the back of his head sheepishly, sneaking a glance at Kurenai as she tried to steal glances at him in return.

Genma chuckled inwardly. Kurenai is as shy as Asuma when it comes to these things. He thought about how late they both ended up having kids in the original timeline. It was clear now that Kurenai's reserved nature mirrored Asuma's.

Having been influenced by Might Duy for three years and his shameless father's relentless teasing at home, Genma had developed a confident, steady attitude when it came to interacting with girls. After all, this was a second chance at life, and he was determined to reshape his personality for the better.

With a playful flourish, Genma pulled a finely crafted crimson gift box from his bag, presenting it to Kurenai. She looked at him in surprise as he opened it, revealing a delicate yellow comb made from an unknown wood.

"Kurenai, I know you find managing your hair to be a hassle, so I picked up a skill from my parents. From now on, leave it to me."

Before Kurenai could protest, Genma gently took a strand of her hair and began combing it. Despite her initial embarrassment, Kurenai found herself frozen in place, unable to move under the curious gazes of their classmates.

"Hmm, much better now," Genma said as he adjusted a pink hair clip onto her freshly combed hair. "Absolutely perfect."

He handed Kurenai a mirror, and her eyes widened at her reflection. Her hair looked smooth and radiant, the pink clip accentuating her ruby-red eyes beautifully.

"Is this really me?" Kurenai gasped, covering her mouth. She glanced at Genma, who was beaming at her with admiration. "Did this take you a long time? If it's such a waste of time, don't do it again."

Before Genma could reply, a voice from the distance interrupted them. "Asuma, I want you to do my hair too!"

Genma didn't catch what happened next, but as Kurenai's expression softened with gratitude, he felt a mix of warmth and bittersweet pride.

"Kurenai," he said earnestly, "the time I spent is already gone. I can't take it back, so it's not wasted. Don't worry about it."

"Well, okay then. But don't make this a habit, or my dad might get upset."

At the mention of her father, Genma shuddered. The image of the stern, red-eyed man appeared in his mind, and he resolved to tread carefully.

"Understood. But that just means I'll have to work harder in my training—and marry you sooner," he teased.

"Wha—stop talking nonsense and focus on your book!" Kurenai huffed, flustered.

"Got it, got it. I'll get back to studying right now."

Though Genma normally dedicated himself entirely to training and studying, he'd learned that injecting some fun and relaxation into their routine was important too. His parents' loving antics had taught him the value of keeping things lighthearted.

---

"Kurenai, what do you think about Kakashi graduating so early?"

Amidst the chatter of the classroom, Kurenai closed her book and rested her chin on her hands, deep in thought.

Genma, who had spent months getting to know her habits, immediately recognized the signs of her introspection. He also knew she was likely swinging her feet idly under the desk.

"Kakashi, huh? If I weren't three years older than him, I wouldn't stand a chance in a fight. He's a true genius, but it's not just his talent—it's his relentless effort. Don't overthink it, Kurenai. With your skills, you could graduate early too, maybe even in your third year."

"Another two years, huh?" Kurenai mused. "What about you?"

"Of course, I'll graduate with you. We'll stick together."

"But what if we're assigned to different teams?"

The thought had crossed Genma's mind many times. His shameless father had promised to pull some strings, but there were no guarantees.

"If that happens, I'll protect you as soon as I reach chunin or jonin rank. I'll be the husband you can rely on."

"I don't need constant protection! I'm strong too, you know," Kurenai said, waving her bandaged hand playfully and flashing a small, mischievous smile.

Genma chuckled. He loved her fiery spirit and determination, even though her injuries often made him worry. To him, her strength and independence were among her most endearing qualities.

---

Genma's recent training efforts had paid off in more ways than one. After years of dedication, he had completed advanced chakra control training, including water-walking. Not just walking—he had practiced fighting and performing complex taijutsu on water surfaces, skills that even many jonin struggled to master.

This level of chakra control allowed him to learn the Shadow Clone Jutsu. Within a week of rigorous practice, Genma successfully created four clones.

Standing before him, the clones grinned mischievously, their identical eyes gleaming with self-assurance.

"Ahem. Boss, you're not worried we might steal your girlfriend, are you?"

"Man, the main body sure is lucky, huh?"

"True, but he's got us to thank. If not, who knows how things might turn out?"

"Eh, if it doesn't work out, we could always elope!"

Genma's face darkened as his clones teased him mercilessly. "Enough! Focus on the task at hand. Here's a map of the Land of Earth. Memorize it—each of you will take a section. You have one minute."

The clones saluted mockingly but complied. One by one, they dispelled, transferring their knowledge back to Genma. The flood of information was disorienting at first, but he quickly adapted. Over the next two weeks, he refined his use of Shadow Clones, discovering his limits and developing a meticulous training schedule.

By alternating his clones between studying, taijutsu practice, and other disciplines, Genma officially embarked on his accelerated path to greatness.

End of Chapter 19