shadow hokage dark moon

Chapter 33: Wood Release—Beyond Bloodline?

Uchiha Tsukiko spoke calmly, "Many believe that Wood Release is a kekkei genkai formed by the fusion of Water and Earth chakra natures. But I think that explanation is incomplete. Wood Release doesn't just manipulate trees; it creates real, living trees. This power goes beyond a mere combination of water and earth. It involves the influence of Yang Release chakra as well."

Tsunade's eyes flickered with surprise. "Yang Release chakra?"

Tsukiko nodded and elaborated, "Yes, Yang Release governs vitality and growth. It's what allows Wood Release to create life rather than just simulate it. Therefore, I believe Wood Release is not simply the fusion of Water and Earth chakra but rather a triple fusion of Water, Earth, and Yang Release."

Tsunade nodded thoughtfully. "That does make more sense. My grandfather could wield Wood Release effortlessly, likely because he had perfect control over these three chakra natures."

Her previous unease seemed to ease as she processed this new understanding. "Tsukiko, your theory sounds reasonable. If Yang Release is truly the key, then I'll focus my training on integrating Water, Earth, and Yang chakra."

Seeing Tsunade's determination, Tsukiko decided to share additional insights he had gleaned from the Destiny System.

"Sister Tsunade," Tsukiko said seriously, "based on my research, Wood Release is not solely dependent on chakra control. Bloodline aptitude plays a significant role. Only those with exceptional genetic potential seem to have the chance to awaken it."

Tsunade frowned, clearly dissatisfied with this conclusion. "I'm the granddaughter of Senju Hashirama! Our blood tie is undeniable. How can it be a question of aptitude?"

Tsukiko noticed her agitation and quickly sought to calm her. "Sister Tsunade, I'm not doubting your potential. My point is that bloodline alone doesn't guarantee awakening. Other factors—perhaps cellular compatibility or chakra balance—might also come into play."

Still frustrated, Tsunade crossed her arms and demanded, "Then tell me—if my lineage isn't enough, what exactly is stopping me from awakening Wood Release? Are you saying I'm not good enough?"

Tsukiko quickly shook his head. "Of course not! You're more than qualified. I believe the conditions for awakening Wood Release are more intricate than we assumed. That's why I've enlisted Orochimaru's help. He's studying Hashirama's cells to uncover ways to enhance compatibility."

Tsunade's expression softened, though doubt lingered. "Orochimaru? Are you sure we can trust him? That snake won't misuse Grandpa's cells for his twisted experiments, will he?"

Tsukiko chuckled and reassured her, "I understand your concerns, but rest assured. Orochimaru may be eccentric, but he's a genius—and careful when it comes to groundbreaking research. I'll personally oversee the progress to ensure everything remains under control."

After a moment's hesitation, Tsunade finally sighed and nodded. "Fine. Since you're vouching for him, I'll trust Orochimaru for now. But if anything shady happens, I'll personally deal with him."

Tsukiko smiled inwardly, relieved by her reluctant agreement.

"Stay hopeful, Sister Tsunade," he encouraged. "With persistent effort and the right approach, you will awaken Wood Release. When that day comes, you'll stand as Konoha's next legend."

Tsunade's eyes burned with newfound determination. Clenching her fists, she declared, "You're right. For Grandpa—and for myself—I won't give up until I awaken Wood Release!"

"I believe in you," Tsukiko affirmed. "You're Senju Hashirama's granddaughter. It's only a matter of time before you succeed."

Tsunade's lips curled into a rare, genuine smile. "Thank you, Tsukiko. If I encounter any obstacles in my training, I'll seek your guidance."

The two exchanged knowing glances, their bond strengthened by mutual understanding and shared ambition.

Tsukiko realized that his connection with Tsunade was growing deeper—not just through their interest in Wood Release, but through the trust forged in these intimate conversations.

After parting ways with Tsunade, Tsukiko strolled leisurely through Konoha's bustling streets, reflecting on his recent progress and achievements.

Training under Hatake Sakumo had accelerated his growth remarkably. Under Sakumo's tutelage, Tsukiko not only refined his kenjutsu and taijutsu but also gained invaluable combat experience through high-level missions.

Reflecting on his former self, Tsukiko recognized how far he had come. While his talent had always been extraordinary, he had once lacked the polish that only real battle could provide.

Now, he stood as a seasoned warrior, honed by countless trials. Thanks to Sakumo's mentorship, Tsukiko's combat prowess had soared, particularly in swordsmanship and close-quarters combat.

"Sakumo-sensei's guidance has been invaluable," Tsukiko mused. "I've not only mastered advanced techniques but also learned to remain calm and analytical in battle. I'm no longer the boy who relied solely on raw talent."

Finding a quiet corner, Tsukiko sat down cross-legged and summoned his Destiny System's attribute panel to review his progress.

The interface shimmered into view:

[Character: Uchiha Tsukiko]

[Rank: Genin]

[Bloodline: Senju Clan, Uchiha Clan]

[Kekkei Genkai: Sage Body 52%, Sharingan (Three Tomoe) 42% Eye Power, Wood Release]

[Chakra Reserve: 16,000 units]

[Special Ability: Dance King of the Ninja World – Ninjutsu Mastery]

[Ninjutsu: Clone Technique, Body Flicker Technique, Tsukiko Flow Taijutsu, Tsukiko Sword Style, Uchiha Shuriken Jutsu, Wood Release: Wood Clone, Wood Release: Deep Forest Emergence, Wood Release: Grafting Technique, Wood Release: Wood Locking Wall, Eight Gates (Sixth Gate: Gate of View), Fire Release: Great Fireball, Fire Release: Great Fire Annihilation, Fire Release: Dragon Flame Song, Earth Release: Earth Wall, Water Release: Water Dragon Bullet]

[Destiny Points: 8,000]

Seeing the updated statistics, Tsukiko couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction. Months of grueling training and life-threatening missions had propelled his strength to unprecedented heights.

"Sage Body at 52%… That's remarkable. My chakra reserves now rival those of elite jōnin. Few shinobi, even among the Five Great Nations, can match this capacity." Tsukiko pondered. "My Three Tomoe Sharingan's eye power is still at 42%, but given my enhanced mental resilience, unlocking the Mangekyō Sharingan is only a matter of time."

Beyond chakra and dojutsu, Tsukiko's mastery of Wood Release had deepened. He had further refined his personalized combat styles—the Tsukiko Flow and Tsukiko Sword Style—making his fighting approach more versatile and lethal.

His progress with the Eight Gates was equally impressive. He could now stably open the Sixth Gate: Gate of View, granting him superhuman speed and strength without debilitating side effects.

"My strength now surpasses that of most jōnin," Tsukiko concluded, "and among them, I stand at the very peak."

It was clear that remaining a genin no longer reflected Tsukiko's true capabilities. Though the title of "Konoha's Strongest Genin" was amusing in the context of the original timeline—where Naruto and Sasuke had fought godlike foes while still officially ranked genin—Tsukiko lacked the plot armor of the Six Paths Sage's intervention.

Thus, he resolved to apply for the Chūnin Exams, viewing it as the next milestone on his path toward becoming Hokage.

His consistent success in high-difficulty missions had not only sharpened his skills but also earned widespread recognition within Konoha. Advancing to chūnin would be both a formality and an important stepping stone toward his ultimate goal.