NARUTO: Ninja World Scientific Revolution

If healing talismans can be mass-produced, they could revolutionize Konoha's current squad tactics. During the Second Shinobi World War, Konoha's four-man squads were widely regarded as the most balanced and effective among the Five Great Nations. However, high casualty rates were a persistent issue—an issue shared by other nations. That is, until Tsunade pioneered the medical corps system, extensively trained medical-nin, and spread battlefield first-aid knowledge. 

Even for those without the aptitude to become medical-nin, learning emergency care and basic treatment became a core part of Ninja Academy training. This reform drastically reduced casualties on missions post-war. Injured shinobi now often had medical-nin available for treatment. Tsunade's efforts skyrocketed her reputation within Konoha, eclipsing even the other two Sannin. 

Now, with the advent of healing talismans, the structure of mission squads could transform yet again. Medical-nin often lacked combat prowess, joining squads only to ensure the survival of their teammates. But if everyone carried a few healing talismans, squads could return to pre-war, combat-focused four-man teams. These talismans could essentially act as personal, portable medics for each team member. 

Just imagining such a scenario filled Hiruzen Sarutobi with confidence for Konoha's future. The village would no longer fear any war. 

"Kimura, how many healing talismans can be produced in a day?" Hiruzen asked. 

Kimura, the deputy director of Konoha Hospital, calculated the difficulty of talisman production before replying, "Currently, there are about eleven medical-nin in the hospital capable of creating healing talismans independently. If we enlist the help of the Sealing Team, we can produce around 200 talismans per day." 

With three talismans per jōnin, Konoha's monthly production could support a small-scale war. This effort wouldn't rely solely on Konoha Hospital; clans without medical-nin could trade funds for talismans as well. 

Hiruzen quickly envisioned numerous tactical applications for the talismans. 

"Mirai, you've done well. These healing talismans are of immense importance to Konoha. Thanks to you, many comrades' lives will be saved," Hiruzen praised warmly, puffing on his pipe. "Truly a genius of the Hyuga clan. If not for your clan elders' reluctance to let you go, I'd have invited you to join the ANBU." 

"Lord Hokage," Kimura interjected, a trace of urgency in his tone. "Mirai's talent in medical jutsu is even greater." 

Hiruzen chuckled, deftly shifting the topic. "Kimura, that depends on Mirai's own choices." 

The movement of Hyuga branch family members required consultation with the main family. Even as Hokage, Hiruzen was cautious not to disrupt the agreements between Konoha's clans, lest he lose their support. 

"Let's discuss the reward. These healing talismans are vital to Konoha's future. I'll grant you the equivalent merit of four S-rank missions. You can exchange this for money or ninjutsu." 

Four S-rank missions. That lined up with Kimura's earlier estimate. 

Hyuga Mirai didn't respond immediately, mulling over his options. The forbidden techniques on the Scroll of Seals were out of reach—Hiruzen would never allow access to those. At best, Mirai could exchange his merit for high-level elemental ninjutsu (B to S rank). But ninjutsu wasn't compatible with his fighting style. 

Mirai already had a clear vision for his path forward: he wouldn't dedicate himself to mastering ninjutsu. His best choice lay in sealing techniques or other abilities requiring exceptional chakra control. 

"Lord Hokage, I'd like to use my merit to gain access to the laboratory and some sealing techniques," Mirai stated. 

"The laboratory?" Hiruzen turned to Kimura. The hospital fell under Kimura's management, so Hiruzen sought his input. 

Kimura stepped forward and replied, "Lord Hokage, aside from Lady Tsunade, Mirai is the only one who has used the laboratory recently." 

Essentially, Tsunade had created the laboratory for herself, but after developing hemophobia, she stopped managing village affairs, leaving the facility unused. 

"In that case, the laboratory will be at your disposal from now on," Hiruzen decided. "As for the sealing techniques, I'll have the ANBU deliver them to you shortly." 

With that, the debriefing concluded. Hiruzen still needed to discuss the healing talismans with the village elders. 

Mirai left the Hokage's office with Kimura but didn't head straight to the hospital. Instead, he returned to the Hyuga compound to inform the main family. Better to address potential issues proactively than wait for them to arise. 

The *Caged Bird* seal—aptly named, indeed. 

When Mirai arrived at the main house, Kiyo Hyuga was sparring with Zosuke Hyuga. Kiyo had improved considerably, holding her own against Zosuke for over ten rounds. Clearly, she hadn't been slacking. 

By comparison, Mirai felt he'd wasted too much time researching healing talismans and cellular genetics. Moving forward, he resolved to balance both endeavors—otherwise, Kiyo might surpass him. 

After briefing the fourth elder on the healing talismans, Mirai left a copy of the production method before excusing himself. Kiyo was still training, so he didn't inquire about her progress in collecting cell samples. Given her status, she'd likely gathered plenty, and Mirai trusted her to follow through on her promise. 

"Daily training cannot be neglected. My main body will focus on training, while shadow clones will handle research on cellular genetics and sealing techniques. This plan should suffice." 

With his plan finalized, Mirai made his way to the ninja tool shop. His current weights were too light, so he intended to commission a heavier set, possibly one that could be worn like a cloak. Careful not to reveal his secret training regimen, Mirai disguised himself and thoroughly scanned the area with his Byakugan to ensure no one was following him. 

After placing a deposit at the shop, Mirai left. Thanks to the stipend he received for completing the healing talisman, equivalent to a medical jōnin's salary, he was financially secure for now. 

"I'll send a shadow clone to the hospital while my main body trains," Mirai decided. 

Research wouldn't yield immediate breakthroughs, so his taijutsu training couldn't be delayed any longer. Splitting his chakra among several clones for laboratory work, Mirai headed to his usual secret training ground to begin his regimen. 

 (End of Chapter)