Reborn in Konoha; I Think I’m Cultivating Immortality

Looking at Hui's warm, smile, Minato felt an instinctive closeness to him.

Even so, it was impossible for him to address Hui as "Hui-nii-san" outright. After all, Hui was the Hokage, and Minato couldn't help but maintain a sense of respect toward him.

"Kunai throwing, like the one I showed you earlier, is a highly challenging skill learn," Hui began, sitting beside Minato and gazing at the setting sun. "It requires significant effort to master and has many limitations compared to other ninjutsu.

"I've already mentioned that it's not a skill I recommend you focus on. So, why are you working so hard to learn it?"

Minato scratched his head and replied, "Even though it has limitations, this technique—just as Hokage-sama said—can serve as a surprise, one-hit finishing move.

"That's why I plan to practice and master it during my spare time, after completing the rest of my training regimen."

Hearing Minato's explanation, Hui's lips curved into a pleased smile.

"That's a solid approach. Ninja battles are mostly a test of comprehensive abilities, but for most ordinary ninjas, combat often boils down to a contest of strength, speed, reflexes, and experience.

"Sometimes, even ninjutsu isn't the deciding factor.

"However, this applies to ordinary ninjas. For stronger ninjas, especially at the jonin level, physical differences become negligible. At that point, the decisive factor is the range of techniques one has mastered.

"Having just one more powerful technique than your opponent can often tip the scales in your favor.

"For most ninjas, mastering kunai throwing techniques may not be necessary. But for a strong ninja, it could be the key to victory.

"Given your innate talent, having the mindset to expand your arsenal of skills is commendable."

Hui's affirmation left no doubt about his approval of Minato's efforts.

It was clear that Minato's talent was exceptional. However, many ninjas possessed talent, yet only a few ultimately achieved greatness.

The difference lay in their ability to learn and their dedication to hard work.

Minato wasn't just a genius, he was a hardworking genius. At just seven years old, he already created and rigorously followed his own training plans.

While his peers trained casually, Minato trained with focus. While his peers played, Minato continued to train.

With talent far surpassing others and a work ethic to match, it was no wonder he stood out.

Hui's praise made Minato's face flush red with excitement. After all, Hui was Minato's idol, someone he had always admired and aspired to emulate.

The reason Minato held himself to such high standards was because his idol had done the same during his youth.

"Minato, what's your dream for the future?" Hui asked, turning to face the young boy.

Minato replied instinctively, without hesitation. "To become Hokage!"

It was only after the words left his mouth that Minato realized what he had said. 

Even so, under Hui's gaze, he didn't feel embarrassed or falter. Instead, his eyes shone with determination.

"I want to be like the Third Hokage-sama—become the leader of the village, protect its people, safeguard it, and guide it toward an even brighter future!" Minato declared, his voice brimming with sincerity.

Hui's smile deepened as he stood up. "Come with me. I want to introduce you to someone."

Minato blinked in surprise but quickly followed. He trusted Hui completely, not just as the Third Hokage, but as his idol.

As they walked, Hui engaged Minato in casual conversation, prompting the boy to reveal much about himself without even realizing it.

In this way, Hui gained a thorough understanding of Minato's abilities and potential.

Minato, for his part, felt entirely at ease in Hui's presence, enjoying their interaction.

After some time, they arrived at the Senju Clan's compound. Hui led Minato into a courtyard.

"This is where the Second Hokage, Senju Tobirama, resides," Hui explained.

Once inside, Hui called out, "Grandpa Tobirama!"

Moments later, Senju Tobirama emerged from his house.

 He had been engrossed in his research, though it wasn't related to the natural energy studies that Hui had been exploring. 

Natural energy wasn't Tobirama's area of expertise.

Tobirama's sharp eyes immediately fell on Minato, and a flicker of surprise crossed his face.

"You spotted a promising talent after just one day at the Ninja Academy? It seems like your sharp eye hasn't dulled," Tobirama said, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

Hui chuckled. "As expected, an exceptional young ninja will always catch your attention, Grandpa."

Minato's talent had indeed been noticed by Tobirama upon his enrollment, though Tobirama hadn't paid much attention to him at the time.

"He's not just a promising student. He's better than you think." 

Tobirama's expression shifted slightly, his curiosity piqued. If Hui was saying this, it meant Minato possessed qualities Tobirama hadn't yet observed.

Confused by their exchange, Minato remained silent, unsure of what was happening.

Hui turned to him and explained, "This is the person I brought you to meet, Konoha's Second Hokage."

"Second Hokage-sama!" Minato exclaimed, bowing deeply in respect.

Tobirama acknowledged the gesture with a nod before turning back to Hui, silently urging him to elaborate on Minato's potential.

Hui smirked knowingly. "Spatial aptitude," he said.

Tobirama's eyes widened, and in a flash, he was standing beside Hui, scrutinizing Minato with intensity.

"Are you certain? How did you determine this?" Tobirama asked, his usually composed demeanor showing a rare hint of urgency.

"Why don't you test it yourself?" Hui replied with a laugh, amused by Tobirama's excitement.

Suppressing his emotions, Tobirama led Hui and Minato into his house.

"Come on in."

…

After several minutes of testing, Tobirama couldn't hide his satisfaction.

Minato's spatial aptitude was indeed extraordinary, on par with, if not exceeding, Tobirama's own.

"Excellent. Truly excellent!" Tobirama exclaimed. 

He had always regret not being able to pass down his flying thunder god technique to Hui, not he had found a worthy successor.

"Minato is both talented and hardworking. In him, I see a younger version of myself," Hui said warmly. "That's why I'd like you, Grandpa Tobirama, to mentor him. Under your guidance, he will undoubtedly become one of the village's finest ninjas."

Tobirama's lips curved into a rare smile. Hui had never compared anyone to himself before. Such high praise spoke volumes about Hui's confidence in Minato's potential.

"Is that so… very well then, Iet me teach you from now on, Minato." Tobirama said with a swarm smile..

Turning to Minato, he added, "Minato, I will train and mentor you rigorously until you become an outstanding ninja. Are you willing to accept my guidance?"

Minato's mind was still reeling from the day's events, but he nodded earnestly. "I am honored to receive the Second Hokage-sama's guidance. I will do my utmost to become an excellent ninja and contribute to the village!"

"Enough with the 'Second Hokage-sama.' From now on, call me 'Sensei,'" Tobirama said with a chuckle. "You are officially my student."

Minato froze for a moment as the words sank in. Then, realization dawned on him.

He—Namikaze Minato—had become the personal student of the Second Hokage!

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