The deeper forests of Konoha weren't quiet they breathed. Leaves rustled like whispers, and the ground trembled faintly with distant training explosions. But here, among towering trees and forgotten trails, Senju Raizen found his peace.
Day 23.
He had memorized the route. Two laps through the outer Senju compound. Three along the forest edge. One back near the riverbed.
Total: 5.2 km.
His legs felt like stone but they moved without hesitation. His breath was controlled. Focused. His mind getting sharp with every step.
Daily Task Progress:
Push ups: 493/500
Squats: 200/500
Run: 5.2/5km
Time Remaining: 15 hours
Progress: Day 23/180
"System" Raizen whispered under his breath. "What's next?"
But system did not respond as it was locked and he need to complete the task given by the system.
He didn't know what gift awaited him after completing the task. But if the system wanted a beast, he'd become one.
Back at the Senju compound, the ridicule continued.
"You training for a farm job, Raizen?"
"Come on, we use ninjutsu! Why waste time on peasant exercise?"
He ignored them.
Taijutsu wasn't flashy. It didn't create explosions. But it was real.
And unlike some kids who threw fireballs from scrolls their fathers gave them, Raizen earned every inch of progress with blood and sweat.
That night, he soaked in a hot tub alone. This was senju medicine bath which helped body heal faster. Muscles twitching. Skin sore. He stared at the cracked ceiling with determination in his eyes.
Let them mock.
He'd keep going.
Because someday soon, when war came and lives were on the line, they'd learn.
The body is the first weapon.
And his would be unbreakable.