Chapter 26: Yomi’s reward

"I did nothing out of the ordinary, Lord Hokage. Just like we were taught, I focused on the anatomy of a lion, and the transformation happened automatically," Kaida explained, though he was thinking, *So just by focusing on transforming like Ben 10, I can achieve such results? I should probably keep this to myself for now, as I've already shown more than enough to make the village invest in us.*

Even after looking into Kaida's eyes, Hiruzen couldn't detect any deception. After all, Kaida was just a 6-year-old child—what could he possibly gain by hiding something? The Hokage assumed it was simply a special talent Kaida possessed. After a moment, he said:

"Very good, Kaida. You can return to the academy now. We will come by shortly to announce the results."

"Thank you, Lord Hokage," Kaida replied, bowing respectfully before heading back to the academy.

As Hiruzen turned to Kenji, he asked, "What was decided for the elite class students in the third and fourth parts of the academy?"

"Sir, it was decided that after learning basic jutsu in the second part, they will learn elemental jutsu based on their chakra affinities in the third part and then gain experience in a specific field of ninjutsu in the fourth part."

"Hmm... exclude Kaida and Yomi from this plan. I will personally oversee their future training," Hiruzen instructed.

Kenji didn't doubt this decision, having witnessed the monstrous talent of both students firsthand. Learning all three basic jutsu in just two weeks was an impressive feat in itself, though he didn't realize it was made possible by their relentless hard work in improving their chakra control.

"As you wish, Lord Hokage."

They then made their way back to the academy.

Kaida and Yomi were sitting in the training area, discussing their exam when they saw Kenji enter the grounds. He approached them and said, "Your exam is now over. Head to the Hokage's office—he will inform you of your results."

Both of them nodded respectfully and made their way to the Hokage's office. Since Hiruzen was already expecting them, they didn't have to wait and were allowed to enter directly.

*Knock knock*

"Come in."

"Lord Hokage," they both greeted him with a bow.

Hiruzen gestured for them to stand normally with a smile and said, "Both of your performances in the exams were remarkable—so remarkable that I have decided you two have graduated from the Ninja Academy. From now on, you are officially Genin."

Kaida and Yomi were shocked upon hearing this, as they had expected more time before becoming Genin. Seeing their confusion, Hiruzen added, "Of course, you will still learn what you would have during the remaining time at the academy. I'll explain more in a week. Now, let's talk about the reward you both wanted."

"The reward you promised us at the entrance exam?" Yomi asked.

"Oh! So you remember. Yes, I'm talking about that reward. Is there anything special you'd like to learn?"

Yomi, as if waiting for this moment, quickly said, "Yes, Lord Hokage. Kaida has much more chakra than I do, which allows him to practice more. Can you teach me some ways to increase my chakra reserves?"

Hiruzen smiled, amused. The last time he checked, both of them had more chakra than any other academy student, but Kaida did indeed have nearly double the amount of chakra compared to Yomi. He nodded and explained:

"Yomi, do you know what chakra is?"

"Chakra refers to the essential life force energy that exists within every living being in the world. It's depicted as a form of spiritual and physical energy that can be harnessed and manipulated by individuals with the appropriate training and abilities," Yomi recited the definition they had learned at the academy.

"That's correct. Chakra is made up of both physical and spiritual energy. To increase your chakra reserves, you need to enhance both types of energy in your body. Since both of you already have strong physiques, the physical aspect is covered. However, you need to focus on increasing your spiritual energy to create a better balance between the two," Hiruzen explained.

Yomi tilted her head in thought. "Do we have to pray to increase our spiritual energy?"

Hiruzen chuckled, "No, Yomi. Shinobi don't believe in gods; they believe in themselves. Spiritual energy is related to your brain's capabilities and knowledge. To increase it, engage in activities that challenge your mind, such as playing Shogi, which requires strategic thinking. Some people use special pills to boost their chakra reserves, but those often have negative effects on the body and can stunt natural growth."

Yomi pondered this for a moment, sorting through the information Hiruzen had provided. She then bowed deeply and said, "Thank you very much, Lord Hokage."

Hiruzen then turned to Kaida and asked, "Kaida, what do you want as your reward?"

Kaida fell into deep thought. He had many desires but hadn't yet sorted out what to ask of the Hokage, especially since he still had nearly a year left before graduating from the academy. However, there was one thing he knew would greatly accelerate his growth and help him achieve many of his future plans.

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