To Sekiya Ichikaze’s question on talent, Uchiha Tonan casually replied, “What is talent? Physique, character, and intellect to explore things. This is talent. However, these things can be changed.”
Ichikaze frowned and asked in a low voice, “Tonan-sama, do you mean to change through hard work?”
Tonan chuckled and shook his head. He explained, “Hard work? What is hard work? I’ve seen a pair of father and son whose talent is very poor but in everyone’s eyes, they work harder than anyone else. Their daily training routine is terrifying. But that’s not hard work… that’s more like self-motivation or self-hypnosis. They can endure physical pain but not mental pain. As I said, talent is about physique, character, and the way of thinking or the intellect to explore things.”
“People like these blindly pursue physical fitness. Of course, it pays off. But in this world, even a single household is diverse. When people find themselves working hard but not getting the expected reward, they should reconsider whether they are on the right path or not. There are many powerhouses and each can be used as a reference to understand one’s shortcomings.”
“But most people choose to ignore it. I admit that the saying, what suits you the best, is correct. But some people tried and learned other things. They guard their little things even more and use these words to comfort themselves. It’s a path to death.” After speaking so much, and seeing that Ichikaze seemed to be listening to him intently, Tonan took a sip of tea and continued.
“You already have two important distinct things for talent. Character and your way of thinking, which is your intellect. A steady character is always more suitable for survival in this world than a transcendent character. As for the way of thinking, it’s the exact opposite. You’ve already achieved these two.”
“While you are at ease, you are still thinking about continuously enriching yourself with the knowledge to change yourself. People always instinctively want to change others to change the world, but it’s difficult to calm down and introspect. This is human nature but it is also what shackles growth. Only the people who are mature and sensible enough can break through their shackles.”
Hearing this, Ichikaze frowned, “Why do people create such shackles for themselves?” Tonan sighed and replied, “Without these, when a person’s character is not mature enough, he’ll go crazy. You may have noticed while meeting people that some refuse to admit their mistakes even if you point them out clearly.”
“The truth is that they already know they are wrong but they can’t break through the shackles in their hearts. But some people might frown and think it over and will eventually admit that they were wrong. Self-denial is human nature but reason can suppress this nature.”
Ichikaze nodded and stared at Tonan with admiration on his face. He said, “Every time I meet you, Tonan-sama, I learn new things that I cannot learn at any other time or from anyone else. These words are truly thought-provoking.”
Tonan smiled slightly and wiped his mouth with a tissue. “Ninjas can be said to be the highest stratum in this world. You are one step away from becoming a ninja, and that is physique. I can help you with this aspect.”
A hint of joy flashed through Ichikaze’s face but he frowned again and solemnly replied, “Tonan-sama, it was only because of you last time that I was able to become a new person. But I cannot simply go on accepting your kindness like this.”
Tonan chuckled and shook his head, “You were willing to wait for me in the Fire Capital for so long. I want to express my gratitude to you as well. Don’t be embarrassed. It’ll be easier to pay me back when you are stronger.”
Ichikaze nodded vigorously and said, “Tonan-sama, thank you. You are truly a good person.” Hearing Ichikaze’s words, Tonan’s smile became brighter and brighter. He waved his hand toward him and said, “Come here.”
Ichikaze leaned forward immediately and approached him. “Be patient, it will hurt a bit.” After giving a casual warning, Tonan placed his right hand on his head. Ichikaze’s eyes widened instantly and he slammed back on the seat. He covered his head with his hands and began to twitch under severe pain, wailing and screaming. “Uh… ah!”
Tonan shook his head and glanced at the unfinished meal in front of him. He raised his chopsticks and gracefully ate. Ichikaze had already acknowledged him. Moreover, since the person wanted to repay, he would obviously give Ichikaze a chance. It can even be considered an early investment.
He hoped that Ichikaze would become a dark horse, dying the whole path red. Half an hour later, Ichikaze leaned back on the seat, gasping for breath. His dry and cracked lips trembled slightly and he asked in an inaudible voice, “Tonan-sama, do I already… have a ninja’s physique?”
At this time, Tonan had finished his meal and was drinking tea while looking out of the window. Hearing Ichikaze’s voice, he turned around.
Pushing the things in front of him to Ichikaze, he said, “These ten chakra potions and this secret technique are for you. I hope that when we meet again in the future, you’ll impress me. When you feel that your strength has reached genin level, become a vagrant ninja. A war is about to start. Be careful and don’t lose your life.”
Hearing his words, Ichikaze stared at the things on the table with a fanatic gaze. He knew that from today onwards, his destiny had changed. He was no longer an ordinary person who ran around for a living. Everything was because of the kindness of the man in front of him.
Ichikaze forcibly supported his weak body and walked over. He knelt to Tonan and kowtowed three times showing his gratitude. “Thank you, Tonan-sama.”
