Chapter 33: Minato Namikaze
As the days passed, the oppressive tension of impending war grew heavier. Rumors swirled that more and more ninjas were being sent to the Land of Rain, ostensibly to seek Hanzō of the Salamander's assistance. Kawakaze shook his head at the absurdity of it all.
The Third Hokage was beginning to show his age, resorting to such naive tactics. Hanzō wasn't a fool. If large numbers of Konoha ninjas crossed into the Land of Rain, it was only a matter of time before the war became inevitable. The Land of Rain would lose its independence, becoming a battlefield once again.
For now, though, the war hadn't officially begun, and Kawakaze's life remained undisturbed. He continued enjoying his peaceful days: teaching Nawaki, who had recently returned from Orochimaru's tutelage; teasing Tsunade; occasionally annoying Sakumo; and making steady progress in Senjutsu training.
The hospital construction was well underway, and once completed, Kawakaze planned to visit the Shikkotsu Forest for further training.
One afternoon, Kawakaze sat at a stone table in the dojo courtyard, savoring a cup of tea. Tsunade, busy overseeing the hospital project, had left him with fewer responsibilities. In the distance, Nawaki was practicing Kenjutsu in the training field. His progress was steady, and by now, ordinary Genin were no match for him. He could even spar against Chūnin-level opponents, though he still bore bruises from Kawakaze's relentless training sessions. If not for Tsunade's medical skills, Nawaki might have needed weeks to recover after each session.
As Kawakaze enjoyed his tea, the butler approached with two children in tow. One was a lively girl with red hair cascading over her shoulders—Uzumaki Kushina. The other was a boy with short blond hair—Minato Namikaze.
Kawakaze raised an eyebrow, amused to see the future Fourth Hokage as a shy child. He smiled and continued sipping his tea, staying seated.
"Kawakaze Big Brother, I brought my friend here," Kushina said, grinning as she led Minato closer.
Minato, nervous under Kawakaze's gaze, stepped forward. Despite his youth, his manners were impeccable.
"Hello, Lord Kawakaze. My name is Minato Namikaze. I've come to pay my respects and hope to receive your guidance," Minato said, bowing politely.
Kawakaze studied the boy with interest. At ten years old, Minato was adorable, his eyes filled with a longing for approval. Orphaned, he clearly yearned for connection and affection.