For the next two days, Itsuki focused entirely on training with Tenzō.
In order to face the dangers that might await him in Kusagakure, he had to grow stronger as quickly as possible. Otherwise, it would be no different than throwing his life away.
His talent, boosted unnaturally by the fabricated future, was already monstrous—and he never held back in training. His rate of progress nearly frightened Tenzō.
Itsuki successfully integrated Wood Release techniques into his training on his very first attempt.
By refining and strengthening his Wood Release, he surpassed Tenzō's level in just one morning.
That same afternoon, Itsuki learned every Wood Release ninjutsu Tenzō had, including the Wood Human Technique—a jutsu even Tenzō himself could not use.
On the third day, Itsuki completely drained Tenzō of all his stored techniques and knowledge. He even hoped to learn everything in Tenzō's mind directly.
But before that could happen, the Third Hokage, who had been observing through his crystal ball, sent for Itsuki and interrupted the training.
" Itsuki," Hiruzen said, seated behind his desk with his Hokage hat on and pipe in hand, "Tenzō tells me your training has gone very smoothly. Yesterday, you perfectly integrated Wood Release, learned many techniques, and even mastered them."
Tenzō stood silently behind Itsuki, sighing inwardly.
Although Itsuki's growth was terrifying—three days was all it took for him to reach and surpass his own strength—Tenzō still didn't feel confident letting him take on dangerous missions so soon.
Originally, he wanted Itsuki to rest and stabilize his power, but Hiruzen was already summoning him for something urgent.
"Reporting, Hokage-sama," Itsuki said respectfully. "I wouldn't say I've mastered everything, but I've definitely integrated Wood Release and learned some techniques. All of this is thanks to Teacher Tenzō."
That respectful address pleased Hiruzen greatly. After only three days, Itsuki had already acknowledged Tenzō as his teacher. Respect for one's teacher was something the Hokage valued highly.
"Not bad!" Hiruzen nodded, smiling. "I've occasionally watched your training. You're indeed very talented. Even without Wood Release, your talent, character, and perseverance are outstanding."
"With your abilities, remaining in isolation will not help you grow. I want you to join the Anbu and gain experience through missions. What do you think?"
Naruto had already started taking missions under Kakashi's guidance. Knowing his personality, it wouldn't be long before Naruto pushed for higher-ranked missions that took him outside the village.
Though Naruto had Kakashi's protection—and Kakashi's Sharingan—the Hokage still felt uneasy.
The village advisors wanted to keep the Nine-Tails' Jinchūriki trapped in the village forever. But Hiruzen had another plan: to cultivate Itsuki as insurance for Naruto's safety.
If Itsuki could fully grow, he would be an indestructible shield.
"It's all up to you, Hokage-sama," Itsuki replied with sincerity.
Joining the Anbu was something already set in the fabricated future. The timing was perfect.
The Fabrication System was indeed amazing. Without interference, events developed exactly as shown in the future video.
"Good. From now on, you are part of the Hokage's Anbu, under Tenzō's Third Team!" Hiruzen declared with a smile.
Tenzō was pleasantly surprised. He hadn't expected Itsuki to become his subordinate. This way, he could continue guiding him directly.
But before Tenzō could relax, Hiruzen continued:
"However, there is an urgent mission for you. Consider it your entry test. Only after completing it will you be officially recognized as a member of the Anbu."
"Yes, Hokage-sama!" Itsuki accepted without hesitation.
Hiruzen then explained the mission.
In three months, Konoha would host the Chūnin Exams. Although held in the Leaf, it was co-organized with allied villages. Preparations required enormous resources.
Teams of shinobi would soon be dispatched to deliver invitations to the allied villages.
Itsuki's task was linked to the team heading to Kusagakure.
He wasn't to deliver the invitation—that was another team's job. Instead, his mission was to infiltrate Kusagakure quietly and gather intelligence on their candidates for the exam.
"This type of mission usually requires experienced intelligence ninjas," Hiruzen explained. "A newcomer like you would normally be unsuitable. But with the cover of the official team, and Kusagakure's weak defenses, I believe you can manage it if you act cautiously."
"But Hokage-sama!" Tenzō interjected anxiously. "Itsuki has just graduated. He's never left the village and has no experience with intelligence work…"
Hiruzen waved off his concerns. "That's why I'm leaving him in your care. You'll teach him the necessary techniques tonight. With his talent, he will learn quickly."
Tenzō still looked uneasy but held his tongue.
The mission was set. Before Itsuki left, Hiruzen handed him a dossier containing details of the team delivering the invitation to Kusagakure.
To Itsuki's surprise, the team was none other than Team Guy, which included Tenten.
At the same time, Tenten's notification appeared in the chat group.
[Tenten: I was originally looking for a personal mission outside the village, but I just got a notice. Our team will be heading to Kusagakure tomorrow morning.]
[Yamanaka Ino: What a coincidence! But if you're traveling with your team, can you still meet Karin?]
[Hyuga Hinata: Come on, Senior Tenten!]
[Tenten: The mission seems simple, so I should have some free time. I'll try to slip away without being noticed. I just don't know if I can really help Itsuki and Karin.]
[Uzumaki Karin: Please make sure you stay safe first. I don't want you getting hurt because of me.]
[Tenten: Don't worry, Karin. I won't be reckless. And if anything happens, I'm still a Konoha ninja with an elite jōnin as my sensei. Even Kusagakure won't dare lay a hand on me.]
[Tenten: The most important thing is—Itsuki is the most special. You can always trust him!]
[Yamanaka Ino: Remember to start the live broadcast when the time comes!]