CHAPTER 17: Missions In The Dark
As Haruki prepared the medical equipment for Ashikaga Ryuzen's check-up, he couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity with his long-time VIP client. Ashikaga-san had been a loyal supporter of his medical practice, and now they were meeting again in Konoha for a medical check-up.
"Welcome, Ashikaga-san. It's good to see you again," Haruki greeted with a warm smile as he guided him to the examination area. "Thank you so much for coming so far to Konoha to see me. How have you been?"
Ryuzen returned the smile and took a seat, ready for the check-up. "Oh, don't you even mention it, Haruki-san. How could I find a doctor better and more trustworthy than you?" he laughed joyfully. "And you know how it is, Haruki-san. The hectic life of a Fire Noble keeps me on my toes. But I can't complain."
Haruki chuckled. "Well, I hope you've been taking care of yourself. I'd hate to see you neglect your health."
Ryuzen raised an eyebrow playfully. "Ah, the nagging has already begun, I see. You're just as strict as ever, Haruki-kun. But I suppose I'll listen to you, considering you're one of the two people in my life who have the right to nag at me." They both shared a laugh.
Haruki smirked. "I'm glad you acknowledge my authority in the nagging department. Now, let's get started with the check-up, shall we?"
As Haruki performed the examination, they engaged in light-hearted banter, catching up on each other's lives. Haruki took the opportunity to inquire about Ashikaga's wife and her experience with the bath bombs he had gifted her.
"Oh, speaking of relaxation, how did your wife find the bath bombs?" Haruki asked, his eyes gleaming with curiosity.
Ryuzen's face lit up with enthusiasm. "She absolutely loved them, Haruki-san! The soothing aroma and the way they transformed her bathing experience were truly remarkable. She's been raving about her healthier and silkier skin, practically glowing, ever since. It feels like I've fallen in love with her all over again."
Haruki grinned, pleased with the positive feedback. "I'm glad she enjoyed it. It's a little side project I've been working on. Combining the healing properties of medical herbs with pleasant fragrances seemed like a perfect combination."
Ryuzen nodded appreciatively. "Well, you've certainly hit the mark with those bath bombs. I might have to steal a few from her stash for myself."
The bath bombs, obviously a concept stolen from his past life combined with the medical knowledge of his current life, was an idea he had cooked up to profit off the luxurious and glamorous lifestyle of Noble's wives. While medical baths do exist in this era, they usually have an unpleasant smell made for those who are sick. The bath bombs, on the other hand, not only have a variety of pleasant fragrances but also rejuvenate the skin.
In other words? He could make it up all he wants to milk their purses dry. He had one other Noble who specialized in herb trading who was ecstatic to 'finally get his turn' and come into a business venture with him surrounding this product and likely other future cosmetics-related goods. It's nice to be filthy rich.
Little did Haruki know, the innocent bath bombs he had created became the catalyst for a comically chaotic turn of events within the noble circles all across the world. As word spread about the extraordinary effects of Haruki's bath bombs, an unexpected demand arose among the concubines and main wives of the nobles.
In an attempt to secure their noble husbands' attention and affection, the concubines and wives began vying for the limited supply of bath bombs. The already volatile courtyards of the noble estates transformed into battlegrounds of strategic scheming and covert operations.
Rumors circulated of midnight raids on neighboring estates, with concubines tiptoeing through moonlit gardens, their eyes set on the coveted bath bombs. Stealthily, they navigated intricate palace corridors, dodging servants and security personnel, all for the chance to obtain the secret weapon of relaxation and seduction.
The noble wives, not to be outdone, employed their own tactics to secure their positions. Intricate alliances were formed, with wives exchanging valuable information and leveraging their influence to obtain the sought-after bath bombs. The great halls echoed with whispered conversations and plotting, as they strategized on how to stay one step ahead of their rivals.
As the frenzy spread, the bath bombs became a symbol of status and power among the noble women. Owning one became a proclamation of beauty, desirability, and influence. They competed fiercely to prove their loyalty and affection to their respective husbands, all while making sure to maintain a facade of elegance and poise.
The chaos wasn't limited to the courtyards alone. Haruki's bath bombs inadvertently triggered a booming underground market, with enterprising individuals seeking to profit from the demand. Counterfeit versions and imitation products flooded the market, leaving the noble women perplexed about the authenticity of their newly acquired treasures.
In the midst of the madness, Ashikaga Ryuzen found himself caught up in the whirlwind of his own wife's quest for the coveted bath bombs. While he admired her determination, he couldn't help but chuckle at the turn of events his innocent mention of the bath bombs had caused.
As the news of the chaos reached Haruki, he couldn't help but find the situation both amusing and astounding. He occasionally laughed out of nowhere during the day simply when reminded of the insanely bizarre incident. People are batshit insane, and somehow he managed to profit off it. His little side project had inadvertently set off a comedic and dramatic chain of events, inciting a bloody war only comparable with the warring periods amongst the noblewomen, leaving the noble circles in a state of disarray.
For a moment, he contemplated the idea of bottling the chaos and selling it as the latest form of entertainment, but he quickly dismissed the thought. His primary focus was and would always be on medicine, but he couldn't deny the humor in the unexpected popularity of his bath bombs.
As Haruki continued with the check-up, he meticulously ensured Ryuzen's well-being and offered advice on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. As they neared the end of the examination, Haruki couldn't resist a final gentle reminder.
"Remember, Ashikaga-san, moderation is key. Less alcohol and more self-care," he strongly advised with a serious tone, though a twinkle of mischief lingered in his eyes.
Ryuzen chuckled, a hint of resignation in his voice. "Ah, you and my wife, always teaming up against me. I suppose I can't escape the nagging. But I appreciate your concern, Haruki-san. I will try my best".
With the check-up complete, they bid each other farewell. Haruki offered a final word of encouragement before they parted ways.
"Take care, Ashikaga-san. And remember, I'm always here if you need any medical assistance or more bath bombs," Haruki said with a playful wink.
Ryuzen grinned. "Thank you, Haruki-san. I'll keep that in mind. Until our next check-up, take care of yourself too."
And with that, they went their separate ways, their bond of friendship and playful banter still intact. Haruki knew that he had made a difference in the lives of his patients, including Ashikaga Ryuzen, both through his medical expertise and his caring nature. After all, how could he let his golden-egg-laying ducks die so easily?
As he exited the VIP ward and left the main hospital building, Haruki noticed makeshift walls built to cover the construction that was just starting. The plans and budget for the new Hospital and Medical School wing had been approved by the Hokage, and thanks to Haruki's close friendship with a Noble who ran the largest construction company in the Land of Fire, the project was already underway.
Haruki had planned to hire some ninjas to potentially speed up the construction process. Though it would be more expensive, this approach would not only stimulate the village's economy by employing more ninjas but also serve as a means to diversify the job opportunities offered to ninjas in the future. As an example, after Pain's invasion, even Yamato was assigned to construction duties. Perhaps Haruki should discuss this idea with the Nara clan head, who could help him present the proposal to the Hokage for consideration.
As he approached the small building that was now temporarily the Isolation Ward of Konoha's Hospital, he touched the seal on the door, and it promptly opened by itself. "Good afternoon, Shikuro-san, Shibi-san," he greeted the patient and the Aburame standing next to him. They both simply nodded at him, classic Aburame, though Shikuro slightly smiled. Kami, this is definitely not genjutsu, right? A smiling Aburame? Blasphemy.
"How are you feeling, Shikuro-san?" he asked while quickly running through several diagnostic jutsu to check on the toxic insect master.
"Good. The Rinkaichu has also stabilized," his voice dark, quite unexpected. "They're grateful for your help, too," he added.
Haruki had witnessed many unusual things during his medical career: a parasitic twin, flesh-eating bacteria in the genital region, but insects thanking him for saving them was certainly a first. The job of a healer was both challenging and bizarre, and in that moment, he couldn't help but feel that it was the humans who were the weirdest creatures of all.
He nodded, his smile still plastered on his face. "I'm glad that they're fine too. While your chart indicates that you're okay, I'd like to keep you here for the next few days just to be sure. This is my first time facing these kinds of cases, and I wouldn't want to risk anything in case I've missed something," he explained, both men nodding in agreement without question.
"Tomorrow, maybe your wife and son can finally visit Shikuro-san," Haruki said, sensing the bugs inside the patient buzzing in excitement. He never regretted being one of the world's best sensors more than ever. "Just make sure to use your gloves and cover your skin, okay?" he reminded the stoic man, who quickly nodded back at him.
He moved on to the topic he wanted to discuss. "Has your son...?" trying to check the timeline.
"Not yet," Shikuro promptly responded. Haruki exhaled a sigh, recalling that Torune's Rinkaichu adaptation period in the original timeline had been disastrous. The boy couldn't even go to school out of fear of accidentally poisoning the whole class. Why were the Aburame doing this again?
"Well, just make sure to come to me to consult first before starting the process," Haruki confirmed again. "I won't interfere," he stressed. "I just want to make sure that the process wouldn't leave a lasting injury on him or be as painless as possible," he explained, trying to emphasize that he was not implying anything hostile. They both nodded in response. "Don't worry, Haruki-san. We understand."
"If you need anything, let the others know. I'll be around the whole day," his smile brightened once more before he exited the hospital. Two surgeries were lined up for him today. As he left the ward, he noticed a black-haired boy garbed in the Uchiha outfit, looking around the outside of the hospital. He instinctively sighed.
"This is a hospital, Shisui-kun. What are you doing outside? Are you hurt?" he asked, causing the boy to yelp and jump in shock. One eyebrow raised at his comical display, the boy's face flushed in embarrassment. "I—Hello, Haruki-kun," he coughed into his fist before gathering himself.
Haruki didn't answer, simply staring at the boy, who also began to simply stare back at him, his eyes seeming dazed. Oh, for Kami's sake, is this really Shisui? THE Shisui that was so feared in the Third Ninja War? The one who could essentially teleport behind his enemy before mauling them? He looks like a complete, blithering idiot.
His brows scrunched at the boy's odd actions, causing him to snap out of whatever trance he was in. Once more, a blush of shame colored Shisui's face. "Sorry! I was actually looking for you," he said, plunging Haruki into further confusion. Shisui opened up his storage scroll, and two well-packed bento popped out. "Director Iwai said that you haven't eaten lunch yet, so I was wondering if you have some time to eat now with me," his voice soft, head slightly turned away as if he couldn't meet Haruki's eyes.
He had the sudden urge to fire Director Mari on the spot. He mentally put a mark next to her name in his 'kill file'. Who in their right mind would spill someone's schedule so easily? They're ninjas, for Kami's sake. He pondered for a second before sighing and relenting to his fate. He's a busy surgeon and an Anbu babysitter apparently.
He walked past Shisui, the boy's face distorted in agony at the seeming rejection. "Let's eat at the office," Haruki simply said before he kept walking. He was pretty sure the boy exclaimed in joy. My Kami, are the Uchihas that friend-deprived? No wonder barely anyone managed to awaken the Mangekyo Sharingan.
Under the cover of darkness, Kakuzu stood in a secluded spot at the edge of the Land of Fire, close to the Land of River, waiting for the arrival of his boss, or well, likely his disguised and masked clone. The moonlight cast an eerie glow on the surroundings, adding an air of mystery to the clandestine meeting. Kakuzu, wearing his own elaborate white mask with purple markings given by his new retainer, contemplated his past encounters with said masked individual.
In his reminiscence, Kakuzu reflected on their initial meeting, where the masked person had tracked him down and offered him unimaginable wealth. He was arrogant, rightly so as he had lived to see Three Ninja Wars, chose to challenge the 'man'. Their confrontation had resulted in a resounding defeat for Kakuzu, as he had underestimated the true power of his opponent. It was a humbling experience for the seasoned shinobi, and one that had forever changed the course of his life.
Upon witnessing the sheer magnitude of the stacked wealth presented by his boss, Kakuzu made a momentous decision. He seemingly vanished from the face of the Earth, leaving behind his previous life. Many believed Kakuzu to be dead, but in reality, he surrendered himself to his boss's orders. In exchange, he became a globetrotting ninja, embarking on missions that were as bizarre and unconventional as they were dangerous. Despite the peculiar nature of these tasks, Kakuzu couldn't help but respect and admire his boss. The man possessed unmatched abilities, a charismatic charm that attracted other formidable subordinates, and an uncanny knack for seemingly knowing everything.
Among the other formidable subordinates, Kakuzu recounted a significant encounter with one of his boss's chosen warriors. When he was first recruited, he underwent a trial to prove his loyalty.
The trial paired him with a samurai on missions, an idea that he initially looked down upon. To Kakuzu, the notion of a samurai fighting alongside a shinobi seemed absurd. However, he quickly learned not to underestimate the power concealed within the samurai's unassuming exterior.
The samurai wielded the legendary kusanagi sword, a gift from their boss, with breathtaking skill. His swordsmanship was a unique display of terrifying power, augmented by jutsus and techniques bestowed upon him by their leader. Their clash left an indelible impression on Kakuzu, pushing him to the limits of his abilities.
Every move the samurai made bore the unmistakable influence of their boss. The leader had an uncanny ability to bring out the best in his subordinates, transforming them into an unstoppable force. It was a testament to their boss's unmatched abilities and profound understanding of their strengths.
The memory of that battle continued to resonate with Kakuzu, kindling a newfound appreciation for the diverse and powerful team that served under their boss. Each member brought their own unique skills and unwavering loyalty to the table, making them an exceptionally formidable force in the world of shinobi. Together, they stood as a living testament to their boss's extraordinary leadership and the strength of their bond as a team.
As Kakuzu awaited the arrival of his boss's arrival, a mix of anticipation and reverence coursed through him. He knew that their meeting would not only bring forth new assignments but also deepen the bond of respect and admiration between the two of them. In this world where strength was paramount, Kakuzu had found a companion who possessed a level of power and skill that surpassed even his own.
As the shadows danced in the dimly lit meeting place, a figure clad in a black cloak and intricate white mask adorned with a small red crystal, made their unnoticeable entrance. Kakuzu, familiar with these encounters, maintained his composure, acknowledging the presence of his enigmatic boss. With a silent nod, he handed over a scroll, containing valuable treasures he had managed to acquire during his missions.
As his boss perused the contents of the scroll, Kakuzu explained in a matter-of-fact tone. "Inside, you'll find two Kusanagi swords, meticulously hunted down and procured from their previous owners," his boss hummed, clearly approving of his good work. But he wasn't done yet. "And there, among them, lies the Nuibaru, one of the renowned 7 Legendary Swords of the Mist," he informed, his voice laced with a tinge of pride. He knew the significance and rarity of such artifacts, aware that his efforts had not gone unnoticed.
Intrigued by the findings, his boss expressed genuine admiration. His boss's voice sounded as if several different people, of differing age, gender, and tone were talking at the same time, their words overlapping. It was quite disorientating when he first heard it. "Exceptional work, Kakuzu-san. I knew you wasted your potential by being a mere bounty hunter" praising Kakuzu's relentless pursuit of the mission he was assigned to, he flinched slightly at the subtle dig. He can't complain though. He had been making more than he could even imagine before. The words of commendation stirred a sense of accomplishment within Kakuzu, validating his prowess as a skilled hunter, collector and most importantly, a useful subordinate. A feeling he hasn't felt for an immensely long time. Not since he was betrayed by his own village.
But the conversation didn't end there. He had more to report. He leaned forward, his voice low but filled with the weight of information. "I've managed to gain some intel about the 'Gelel Project'," he disclosed, emphasizing the importance of his findings. His boss's gaze sharpened, emphasizing the significance of the task at hand. The instructions were clear: gather information and locate its whereabouts, but refrain from retrieving it just yet.
Understanding the directive, Kakuzu nodded, his mind already formulating plans and strategies. His boss rewarded his diligence and success with a scroll, brimming with the enticing allure of wealth. The anticipation flickered in Kakuzu's eyes as he knew the value contained within that scroll. His boss was known to be generous, with or without the mask on.
Their conversation continued, the boss emphasizing the ongoing hunt for the elusive Kusanagi swords while keeping a vigilant ear to the ground for any developments regarding the other projects. The boss assured Kakuzu that if plans changed or new missions arose, he would be promptly notified.
Before Kakuzu's eyes, a sense of wonder ignited as his boss simply vanished into thin air, leaving him in awe. Despite witnessing this remarkable disappearance several times before, the sight never failed to captivate Kakuzu, reminding him of the unfathomable power and mastery possessed by his enigmatic leader. With newfound determination, Kakuzu tucked the scroll of riches securely away, ready to embark on his next mission, driven by loyalty and the insatiable desire for both power and wealth.
He knew the oddity of him working under someone, but frankly, he never felt happier or more accomplished than ever before. He also knew that he was accepted and 'taken in' when his boss revealed his true identity. Who could possibly imagine that the one so many worshiped and hailed as Kami's Messenger, the Saint of Embers, the poster child of 'Hope' and 'Salvation' were not only insanely powerful, wealthy beyond imagination but also capable and approve of illicit activities.
Despite his status and prestige, Kakuzu's boss never looked down on him and instead praised him for his inner mental strength, the courage to abandon the people who betrayed him and outlived them all. While his village remained small and inconsequential, Kakuzu had made a name for himself, though now he had to keep it strictly hidden. It was something he never even considered.
And most importantly, despite the 'failsafe' his boss had planted in his mind should he ever cross him, Kakuzu wasn't concerned at all. In fact, he of all people knew the pain and anger that came with being betrayed. And his boss, despite his proclivity for some illegal activities, was undoubtedly a good person worthy of respect. Kakuzu recalled how his boss even had him track down some ostracized children and provided them with shelter, food, and a chance to make something out of their life.
Yes, his boss was definitely a good person, one who cared deeply for those around him and wasn't afraid to take unconventional measures to help those in need.
As Kakuzu pondered these thoughts, he couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of loyalty and determination. His boss had given him purpose and a place where he felt valued and respected. In a world filled with chaos and power struggles, Kakuzu had found someone he could trust and follow without hesitation.
With a resolute nod, Kakuzu turned his attention to the scroll of riches in his possession. There were more missions to undertake, more treasures to acquire, and more opportunities to prove his worth. As he vanished into the shadows, he knew that his path was set, guided by the enigmatic leader he admired and respected.