Chapter 9: The Aftermath of Victory: Recognizing Hiroshi’s Strength

After the intense ambush, Hiroshi's exploits had not gone unnoticed. The Hidden Cloud Village buzzed with talk of the young shinobi who had single-handedly turned the tide of battle with his incredible Qi abilities. Hiroshi's peers, once skeptical and often hostile, now looked at him with respect and admiration. The village council and the Raikage were particularly interested in this new power that Hiroshi wielded.

Hiroshi was summoned to a debriefing with the higher council and the Raikage. As he entered the grand hall, he could feel the weight of their gazes upon him. The Raikage, seated at the head of the table, motioned for him to begin.

"Explain the events of the ambush," the Raikage commanded.

Hiroshi detailed the scenario, emphasizing the crucial moments where his Qi abilities had made the difference. He spoke of the explosive strength he had unleashed and the constructs he had summoned to fend off the attackers.

"Impressive," the Raikage remarked. "This Qi, can it be taught to others?"

Hiroshi took a deep breath. "Raikage-sama, Qi is a unique form of energy. From my understanding and experiments, it requires the practitioner to have no chakra in their body, essentially making them an empty vessel. Qi seems to be a higher form of energy, more explosive and lethal than chakra or natural energy."

Disappointment flickered across the faces of the council members. The Raikage, however, remained thoughtful. "Is there any benefit for those who do possess chakra?"

Hiroshi nodded. "Yes, Raikage-sama. While they can't cultivate Qi, they can use the body forging breathing technique I've developed. This technique can amplify a shinobi's strength fivefold, although it will rapidly consume their stamina. It's similar to the methods used by Might Guy but without the severe backlash."

The Raikage's eyes gleamed with excitement. "Such a technique is invaluable. I will classify it as an A-rank technique. Imagine the advantage in battle—catching an opponent off-guard with sudden explosive strength." He paused, considering. "However, given your unique abilities, Hiroshi, you will not be given a traditional shinobi rank. Instead, I am creating a special squad called the Protectors. This elite group will consist of combatants with peak physical prowess who can utilize your breathing technique. The leader of this squad will be B, our master swordsman and Jinchuriki. This force will be our final defense and main attackers, operating directly under my command."

The Raikage leaned forward. "Hiroshi, continue your training and develop new techniques that can benefit the village. You will receive significant compensation and access to study S-rank techniques. Adapt these to incorporate Qi instead of chakra. This will enhance your versatility and strength."

Hiroshi felt a swell of pride. His parents were beaming, their faces filled with pride and joy. Seeing their happiness strengthened his resolve. He vowed to become even stronger, to protect not only them but the entire village.

The Raikage's eyes bore into Hiroshi's. "Understand this, Hiroshi. Your abilities make you a key asset to the Hidden Cloud. You are a secret weapon, alongside B. Together, you will ensure the safety and strength of our village."

Hiroshi nodded, determination lighting up his eyes. "I understand, Raikage-sama. I will not let you down. I will continue to train and perfect my techniques. The Hidden Cloud Village will always have my utmost loyalty."

The Raikage smiled, a rare expression on his usually stern face. "Good. I expect great things from you, Hiroshi. Dismissed."

As Hiroshi left the grand hall, his heart swelled with pride and determination. He was no longer just the chakra-less boy; he was a protector of the Hidden Cloud Village, a warrior with the power to shape his own destiny.