In this period, Tenzo gradually distances himself from the soulless discipline of 'Root,' but he still retains many traits of a trained operative: he is serious, somewhat terse, always ready for battle, and does not display unnecessary emotions. However, humanity is already beginning to mature within him—he starts to value his squad comrades, especially Kakashi, whom he respects as a mentor. Tenzo no longer regards allies as expendable material. He shows curiosity about the surrounding world, although outwardly he remains calm and collected. His main motivation is to serve the village and justify the trust of the Third Hokage, who gave him a second chance. He still bears the cursed seal of Danzo on his tongue, which prevents him from speaking about 'Root's secrets, but this does not hinder his loyalty to Konoha. In the squad, he quickly gains a reputation as a reliable and cold-blooded fighter. In his interactions with Kakashi, he learns trust and even a bit of light humor, although he himself remains restrained.
