Ryu repeated, "You mean to say that the hospital will pay for all of my medical expenses?"
Nono offered a reassuring nod and said, "Yes."
"But why?" Ryu asked.
Ryu was aware that in this world, even seemingly ordinary individuals were not particularly kind. He understood its cruelty, especially towards children, and recognised the presence of individuals like Danzo and Orochimaru. The greatest example was Naruto's situation, where he was rejected by the village even though he had done nothing wrong. In addition, every village has a practice where ninjas kidnap children to use for experiments, information gathering, or to get their special bloodline.
Yuki's eyes softened as she observed a mix of struggle, hope conflicting with doubt, and gratitude entangled with confusion playing across Ryu's face. She saw the struggle within him, the hope at odds with doubt, and the gratitude tangled with confusion, and she knew that after his experience at the orphanage with the Root Division, he was suspicious of new people.
Dr Nono said, "Your exceptional insight assisted a patient where our best efforts failed. That selfless act of offering a diagnosis started a cycle of kindness we are simply completing."
Yuki then interjected, "Ryu-kun, this is essential. You have pneumonia, peptic ulcers, and other severe infections. These conditions are life-threatening, and due to your body's rejection of immunity boosters, the situation is extremely critical and urgent. We need to address these issues immediately."
The realisation of his condition caused Ryu's shoulder to slump slightly, but the doctors' words brought a fragile hope that bloomed quickly in his chest.
Dr Sato, listening intently, cut in with a firm voice. "That patient was so grateful he made a significant donation to the hospital in your honour. We are using that goodwill to invest in your future. Do not call it charity, Ryu. Call it an investment."
"I do not know how to thank you," Ryu stammered, his voice heavy with emotion. His eyes flickered between the doctors.
Yuki remarked, smiling mischievously, "Dr. Sato may seem stingy, but he is very generous and kindhearted."
"Hi there! Who are you calling stingy? I am your superior, dammit." Dr. Sato joked, providing a brief break from the serious conversation.
Dr. Nono merely giggled a little, while Yuki laughed at his reply.
Dr Sato then placed a hand on Ryu's arm. "Ryu," he began gently, "I expect great things from you. We give permission for all of your future medical costs to be covered by the hospital. We believe in your potential and are invested in your future. Do not say 'thank you'; just take it, boy."
Interrupting them was a knock on the door. A voice then said, "Dr Sato. Your patients are waiting for you, and your appointments have also arrived at your office."
The intrusion of reality seemed to break the spell that had fallen over the room. Dr Sato straightened, his professional demeanour sliding back into place.
He reached over to shake hands with Ryu, a silent acknowledgement of the strength and resilience Ryu had displayed. Ryu grasped Dr Sato's hand firmly.
Ryu asked, "Dr. Sato, I appreciate the term 'investment.' Does that investment extend to research equipment? My current efforts are constrained by rudimentary supplies."
Dr. Sato considered this, then replied, "If your 'advanced observational requirements'—whether a high-quality microscope or specialized mediums—are tied to your treatment, the hospital will certainly cover it. Dr. Yuki will handle the requisitions. We are serious about this investment, Ryu. Write up your list."
Dr Sato glanced at Ryu, a touch of concern lingering in his eyes. "Yuki. Take good care of him."
"I would have done so even if you had not asked. He may have been adopted, but he is still my child," Yuki said gravely, her eyes meeting Dr Sato's, emphasising her maternal bond with Ryu.
Dr Sato and Dr Nono gracefully exchanged a nod before leaving the conference hall, their presence fading as they exited, leaving Ryu and the others to continue their discussion. Ryu watched the door click shut. The gift was more than health; it was absolute resource freedom. His practical mind instantly seized the opportunity. He wasn't just a patient now; he was a sponsored project. He could request advanced medical supplies and lab equipment, concealing his actual experimental needs behind the facade of his 'severe' treatment plan. A slow, strategic smile spread across his face. He was no longer a sickly child but a privileged, sponsored scientist.
Just then the door burst open, revealing Isao. Curiosity sparkled in his eyes, and his face practically creased with intrigue. "Whoa, what's going on here? I've never seen Dr Sato so happy! Ryu, spill the beans! What's got everyone grinning?"
"Nothing," Ryu deflected smoothly. "I just stood here and listened. You should ask Mother Yuki about the good news."
Before Ryu could respond, Yuki intervened, her words carrying a weight of responsibility: "The hospital has decided to shoulder the costs of his treatment moving forward. They were here to deliver this significant news to him, emphasising the importance of the moment."
Isao's face lit up with genuine happiness as he exclaimed, "What fantastic news! Congratulations, Ryu. I'm genuinely happy for you and here to support you through this journey."
Ryu's lips curved into a faint smile as he humbly expressed, "I appreciate it, Mr Isao."
Yuki, with a serious expression, said, "Let's focus on your research now. It's time to delve into the specifics and explore your experiments in detail."
A glint of anticipation shimmered in her eyes as she focused her attention solely on Ryu, quizzing, "Isao mentioned your experiments on seeking an alternative treatment. I would like to know what the two of you are doing. Could you please provide more details about these experiments?"
Ryu then elaborated on his unique theoretical approach, distinct from conventional practices involving potions and herbal remedies. He detailed his pursuit of replicating a natural substance released by microorganisms as a defence mechanism against external threats, highlighting the originality and complexity of his research.
Additionally, he elaborated on the petri dish experiments conducted in the library's makeshift lab, detailing his research progress.
Yuki, raising an eyebrow with intrigue, said, "Interesting. So, your goal is to utilise the fungus that grows on rotten bread to develop an artificial antibacterial agent. Tell me more about how you plan to achieve this."
As Ryu delved deeper into his groundbreaking concept of employing microbes as a defence against bacterial infections, a realm of unconventional yet potentially valuable creativity began to unfold, showcasing the innovative potential of his research endeavours. His commitment to developing an antimicrobial agent that utilised the body's natural defences demonstrated a forward-thinking approach to healthcare that went beyond conventional methods.
Dr. Yuki, leaning forward, her gaze intense, said, "The simplicity is its genius. Using a microbe's defense mechanism against another—pitting pathogen against pathogen—it's a massive leap in medical thinking. I dealt extensively with venoms and toxins to create controlled immunities in my past, but applying that same principle to widespread bacterial agents... this is truly groundbreaking, Ryu-kun."
Ryu hesitated briefly, then met her gaze firmly. "Yes, it's along those lines. Although unconventional, I have a strong belief in its potential effectiveness. I'm confident in the success of this approach."
Yuki leaned back in her chair. "Let me see what you've got."
Isao and Ryu exchanged a look, and Ryu said, "Do not worry, we will not disappoint you, Mother."
Yuki nodded, intrigued by the boldness of their approach. She was eager to see how their unconventional methods would unfold.