Chapter 504: Chapter 504: Deployment!
Reiki unfolded the roster of the special training camp, reviewing the names of all participants and instructors. His own name was prominently listed, marking his integral role in the program.
"Chief, as long as no one dies, it's fine, right?" Chana asked with a sly smile, licking her crimson lips.
"Yes," Reiki replied. "Even if they're tortured to the brink of death or shattered mentally, it's acceptable. By the way, if you manage to capture me, the reward will be immense. So, from now on, treat me as your enemy."
Reiki's aura intensified, filling the room with an oppressive energy.
"Susususu..."
Without a second thought, Chana and her companions disappeared. Even the towering Iron Tower roared before bolting.
While the bounty for Reiki was tempting, they knew that attacking him while he was on guard would only end poorly. They'd not only fail but also endure a humiliating beating.
Though Reiki might heal their injuries afterward, none of them relished the idea of being pulverized. Time was precious, and wasting it on unnecessary fights was unwise.
"Master Reiki, what about us?" Chi Luoluo asked hesitantly, watching the scene unfold.
"Your mission is the same as the Kara Organization's. Here's the list." Reiki handed him a scroll. "I'm heading to Nawaki next. You'll handle the detailed planning and execution."
"Just like the others, I am also one of the targets on the list," Reiki added with a smirk before departing.
Upon arriving at Yucun Village, Reiki was struck by the transformation. The once-humble village of wooden huts was now adorned with large, well-constructed buildings. The streets were clean and orderly, reflecting the progress the village had made.
"Brother Reiki is here!"
"Come and have some fruit!"
"You're looking so handsome again, Brother Reiki! How do you keep getting taller?"
The villagers of Rouran Kingdom greeted him warmly, their cheerful voices echoing through the streets. Their simple, content lives revolved around cultivating their land and enjoying the security of their homes.
Reiki felt a pang of yearning for such a peaceful existence. But now was not the time to stop. He pressed onward, arriving at the Rouran Royal Palace—a modest courtyard larger than an average home but devoid of extravagant embellishments. Most resources had been funneled into improving the lives of the people, leaving little for luxuries.
"Nawaki, you've really been working hard on your Wood Release!" Reiki said, catching sight of Nawaki opening the palace gates.
"Of course!" Nawaki grinned. "I've finally found the trick to it."
"Trick? Wood Release doesn't come with shortcuts," Reiki said skeptically, raising an eyebrow.
"No, hear me out!" Nawaki began enthusiastically. "First, I use the body-building potions you provided to strengthen my physique quickly. Then, I help with construction projects around the village to consolidate my gains. Finally, I use your chakra-refining potion to control Wood Release more effectively!"
Reiki blinked, momentarily speechless. "Nawaki... those aren't tricks. I told you about that training method ages ago in Konoha!"
"Well, I perfected it!" Nawaki declared, beaming.
Reiki shook his head, trying not to laugh. "Alright, genius. Where's Queen Sara?"
"She's handling the kingdom's official affairs," Nawaki explained. "The rapid development of Rouran has created a mountain of issues to address. I'd help more, but, you know…"
"Stop," Reiki interrupted, rolling his eyes before Nawaki could delve into another self-praising monologue. "I'm here to discuss something important.
"I'm restructuring the training regimen at the special training camp. I need all Rouran ninjas proficient in puppet techniques. As for creating the puppets, I'll handle that. Since you've made progress with Wood Release, you're joining too."
Reiki handed Nawaki the list, explained the plan briefly, and left before Nawaki could bombard him with more anecdotes about his "brilliance."
As Reiki headed to his next destination, Prime Minister Sanada welcomed him. The plan Reiki proposed, however, made Sanada hesitate.
"Reiki, drawing out everyone's full strength like this... isn't it a bit too harsh?" Sanada asked, his concern evident.
"It's necessary," Reiki replied firmly. "We're facing enemies that won't give us any leniency. If we want to survive, we have to be ready."
Sanada sighed. "I understand the logic, but rapid improvements like this can lead to overconfidence. Some might start believing they're geniuses. And when they hit a wall, when that illusion shatters, it could lead to disastrous consequences—mentally and emotionally."
Reiki paused, considering Sanada's words. "You're right. But it's a risk we have to take. The key is ensuring that the instructors monitor the trainees closely and provide the right guidance to prevent those issues."
Sanada nodded reluctantly. "If you believe it's the best way forward, I'll support you. But I hope you're prepared for the fallout if things don't go as planned."
Reiki smiled. "That's why I have people like you, Sanada. To keep everything from falling apart."
The deployment phase had begun, and with it, the next chapter of challenges.