Chapter 45 46 47 48 49 Hatake Tatsuya in Naruto (Patreon)

After an hour had passed, Rin approached both Tatsuya and Tsunade, presenting each of them with their requested items. As tension mounted, steam seemed to billow from Rin's head, giving the impression that Tatsuya believed she was somehow possessed by Hyuga Hinata.

"You actually bought these?" Tatsuya's astonishment was palpable as he glanced at the box of balloons that Rin had handed him.

Tsunade's eyes widened at the sight of the small box of rubber Rin had handed Tatsuya, clearly taken aback by the unexpected purchase.

Rin, who was aware of the nature of the items, remained silent. She cast her gaze downwards, fidgeting with her toes as if she wished to vanish into the ground.

"You let a young girl like her buy these kinds of things? What is she going to think in the future?" Tsunade exclaimed, her frustration causing her to elbow Tatsuya forcefully.

"No, no, it wasn't me who bought these," Rin quickly interjected, lifting her head and gesturing to the small box. "Kakashi and Obito got them for me."

"Really?" Tsunade's eyes widened even further in surprise.

Tatsuya couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, intrigued by the unfolding narrative. How had Kakashi and Obito become involved in this endeavor?

With a blush tinting her cheeks, Rin Nohara recounted the events that had transpired in Konoha an hour earlier. Obito had coincidentally crossed paths with Kurenai, accompanied by a lingering dog named Asuma.

Inquiring directly about the meaning of the term "Rubber," Obito received an unexpected slap from Kure ak, who comprehended its implications. Eventually, Kakashi divulged the truth, acknowledging Rin's assistance with their errands.

Amused by the tale, Tatsuya couldn't help but chuckle at the antics of his friends. He pondered how in the future Kakashi and Obito, despite being in their thirties, had yet to experience the use of such items.

Tsunade, initially on the brink of laughter, suddenly recalled something, causing her expression to darken once more. Her voice took on a frosty tone as she addressed Tatsuya: "Hold on a moment! Are you telling me that all these little spirits now know that you've been using these things?"

Tatsuya was taken aback by Tsunade's renewed frustration. "Well, isn't it obvious?" he responded nonchalantly. "After all, Rin is helping both of us with your errands."

Tsunade's outrage was palpable as she forcefully charged at Tatsuya, clearly displeased with his response. "No, no! That's not the point. How will she be able to face people in the future?"

Tatsuya was rendered speechless by Tsunade's line of argument. He hadn't anticipated such concern from her over a trivial matter.

Observing their exchange, Rin's cheeks remained flushed, the memory of the shop owner's comment adding to her embarrassment: "Oh? Does Master Tatsuya want this again?"

...

...

Time continued its steady march forward. Over the next few years, the junior instructors at the Ninja School continued their studies, displaying no particular eagerness to graduate prematurely.

Jiraiya accompanied Namikaze Minato in training sessions beyond the village confines, while Orochimaru's presence in public was notably scarce, leading some to speculate about his whereabouts.

Amidst these events, Tsunade eventually relocated to Tatsuya's cabin, finding it more appealing than the mansions within the Senju clan estate due to her fondness for casinos.

A unique understanding seemed to have developed between Tatsuya and Sarutobi Hiruzen, resulting in a lack of overt actions from either party. While Gekko Azuki had met a rather unfortunate end as a result of Tatsuya's ninja dog, Namikaze Minato had embarked on a journey with Jiraiya.

Despite the absence of overt confrontations, Tatsuya's awareness of the situation remained acute. In the wake of Sarutobi Shinnosuke's demise, Sarutobi Hiruzen had yet to divert his suspicions away from Tatsuya.

Lack of evidence, coupled with a gradual decline in strength due to advancing age, likely contributed to Hiruzen's inaction. Tatsuya, too, chose a stance of relative passivity, adhering to a tacit understanding of mutual non-interference.

However, beneath this veneer of inaction, Tatsuya was far from idle. Recognizing Tsunade's sentimental attachment to the Hokage position, a role once held by both her grandfathers, he resolved to create an opportunity for her to attain that title.

Nevertheless, Tatsuya's inclination favored swift and decisive actions over protracted struggles. His approach was akin to that of an annihilating blitzkrieg, seeking to swiftly eliminate obstacles and secure victory.

...

...

Time passed, and before anyone knew it,3 years had transpired since those earlier events in Konoha. The air was thick with anticipation as the family brimmed with excitement, heralding the arrival of the new era or new war?

Tatsuya, who had become accustomed to such occasions, took the hubbub in stride. Tsunade, on the other hand, had managed to amass a plethora of gambling debts at the casino during this period, resulting in creditors closely associating him with her, eager to collect.

Amidst this backdrop, an intriguing development unfolded. Jiraiya and Namikaze Minato, who had embarked on a three-year training sojourn, finally returned to the village. The outskirts of Konoha were enveloped in a blanket of snow, and a radiant golden streak danced around Tatsuya.

Drawing his sword in a fluid motion, Tatsuya intercepted the swift glint of light hurtling toward him. The speed was such that the naked eye struggled to track its movement.

"Did you see that? Someone actually evaded Uncle's strike!" Kakashi exclaimed in astonishment from the shore.

Under a nearby tree, Jiraiya's smile held an air of satisfaction.

A sharp sound resonated through the air as Tatsuya nimbly swatted down a peculiar flying kunai. The deflected weapon executed a graceful midair turn before a golden figure materialized before Tatsuya. The figure's hand bore a rapidly spinning chakra sphere.

"Rasengan!" Namikaze Minato's voice rang out with fervor.

The Chakra sphere in Namikaze Minato's hand came to an abrupt halt, mere centimeters away from the bridge of Tatsuya's nose.

"As expected of Master Tatsuya," Namikaze Minato remarked, his smile tinged with admiration as he compared Tatsuya's current stature and demeanor to three years prior.

Looking down, Minato suddenly became aware of Tatsuya's sword, positioned near his abdomen, with the potential to pierce through at any moment.

"The rate of growth is truly remarkable," Tsunade conceded, acknowledging Namikaze Minato's rapid advancement.

"Ha-ha! In comparison to growth spurt, it seems no one can quite measure up to Minato!" Jiraiya exclaimed, his arms akimbo, displaying a self-satisfied grin that almost suggested it was he himself who had achieved such growth.

"It appears you won't be far from surpassing Tatsuya," Jiraiya added with a triumphant glint in his eye.

Finally overcoming the one who had relentlessly pursued Tsunade, it was a small victory for Jiraiya, even if he wasn't the victor himself.

Tatsuya, however, simply smiled in response to Jiraiya's remark, choosing not to engage further.

"Master Jiraiya, the Hokage requests your presence," a sudden appearance of an Anbu member, utilizing the Body Flicker Technique, interjected.

"I know, we're on our way," Jiraiya responded, the triumphant expression on his face diminishing by half, and he added somewhat curtly, "We'll manage without your guidance."

"…Yes," the Anbu member acquiesced, clearly sensing the undertone of annoyance in Jiraiya's words, before disappearing with another Body Flicker Technique.

Though the Anbu served directly under the Hokage, even elite Jōnin tended to avoid confrontation with them whenever possible.

Amidst the gathering of prominent figures like Tatsuya, Tsunade, and Jiraiya, the Hokage's direct troops were cautious not to assert undue authority.

"Shall we go, Minato?" Jiraiya beckoned Namikaze Minato.

"Yes, Mr. Jiraiya," Namikaze Minato replied, stowing away his custom-made three-pointed kunai and offering a respectful bow to Tatsuya. "Thank you for the lesson."

With that, they departed for the village, Namikaze Minato in tow.

"It's quite remarkable that Mr. Minato could hold his own against Master Tatsuya. I've never witnessed anything like it," Rin, who had transformed into a mature young woman since her childhood, expressed her astonishment in a hushed tone.

"Why didn't you use your full strength?" a curious and slightly juvenile voice piped up from the forest behind.

Tsunade, Rin, and the others turned to see a young boy of about five years old, with curly black hair and a pair of inquisitive eyes fixed on Tatsuya.

"The Uchiha clan!" Kakashi mentally noted upon spotting the emblem on the boy's shoulder—a sign resembling a flame fan.

Kakashi's mind immediately connected the emblem with his former classmate, Obito, who had often discussed this very clan symbol during their school days.

Yet, the boy before them sported distinctive Uchiha features, such as black hair, yet had an unusual feature—curly hair and a slightly flattened nose.

"Why did you put on such a show?"

"By the way, the little mouse who's been lurking behind, peering at us lately—are you finally ready to show yourself?" Tatsuya inquired nonchalantly as he sheathed his sword with practiced ease.

In recent times, Tatsuya had been sensing a lingering presence observing him, though it lacked the antagonistic intent typical of previous encounters.

However, unlike the previous bumbling Anbu group, this observer emitted no hostility, and Tatsuya dismissed it as inconsequential.

"I heard that [Konoha Black Sword] is the most formidable swordsman in the village, so I couldn't resist," the young Uchiha boy admitted, scratching his head bashfully before offering a respectful bow. "My name is Uchiha Shisui. Please instruct me, Master Tatsuya."

Yet again, Tatsuya couldn't help but exhibit a faint expression of disdain upon hearing the name.

"Is that so?"

Uchiha Shisui, still a child of less than five, looked genuinely puzzled.

Tatsuya, having already found Sakumo's demise in the original narrative to be puzzling, found himself equally baffled by the unusual nature of Uchiha Shisui's end.

Moreover, the extraordinary technique known as the Kotoamatsukami, which he dubbed the "The Most Dangerous Genjutsu," was a veritable anomaly—its capability to rewrite a person's ideals with mere words was unprecedented. Except perhaps Naruto's Talk No Jutsu.

Shishui possessed a deep understanding of the skill's threat and understood the responsibility it entailed, leading him to conceal its existence from even those closest to him.

Observing this power, Tatsuya realized that even the once all-knowing Sarutobi Hiruzen had gaps in his knowledge.

In the original timeline, Uchiha Shisui had recommended using the Kotoamatsukami to manipulate Uchiha Fugaku's mindset and thwart the impending coup. This suggestion, however, ignited concerns in Sarutobi Hiruzen and others that Shisui might use the technique on them, thus highlighting the fear surrounding the power.

"Master Tatsuya, do you know me?" Uchiha Shisui inquired, genuine curiosity etched across his young features.

Tatsuya emitted a peculiar chuckle. "I've heard a little about you. I believe you and my brother would have become great friends."

"Really?" Uchiha Shisui, still a child, responded with a mixture of amazement and embarrassment.

Konoha's White Fang? The figure second only to the Black Sword? Can he truly can form a friendship with The legendary Sakumo Hatake?

After all, it was by chance that he had witnessed the training duel between Tatsuya and Sakumo during a passing moment.

Enchanted by the combat skills displayed by both swordsmen, Shisui, himself a practitioner of the blade, couldn't help but be drawn in.

For him, the appeal of the sword styles was inescapable.

"You're all equally foolish," Tatsuya retorted, causing a noticeable shift in Uchiha Shisui's expression.

Konoha Village stood proudly along the main road leading to the administrative building.

"Minato..."

After a prolonged period of reflection, Jiraiya finally broke the silence, "Just hold on for a moment. Whatever role the old man assigns you, just focus on excelling in your own duties and don't concern yourself with unnecessary matters."

Having ruminated extensively, this was the only advice Jiraiya could offer.

Three years of intensive spiritual training had made it evident to Jiraiya that Namikaze Minato possessed the qualities of a future Hokage.

This was a promising development. However, the desire to become Hokage often led to entanglements in the complex web of political intrigue.

Jiraiya's concern was genuine, but he could only offer these words as guidance.

He wanted to shield Namikaze Minato, whose heart was as pure as a child's, from the shadows lurking within Konoha.

"Alright, I understand," Namikaze Minato, now 17 years old, responded with a maturity that belied his age. He grasped the undertones in his teacher's advice and nodded with solemnity.

"I'll be on my way then, continuing to gather some fresh materials," Jiraiya abruptly shifted gears, adopting a more lighthearted demeanor as he headed toward the hot springs.

"The Three Forbidden Prohibitions of the Ninja... Sensei..." Minato murmured with a wry smile and a shake of his head. He then turned his attention to the towering administrative building adorned with a prominent "Fire" symbol.

"Sigh."

Summoning his resolve, Namikaze Minato suppressed the anxiety fluttering in his chest and stepped into the building.

...

...

Five minutes later, in the Hokage's office:

"Your demeanor and the aura you emanate are markedly different now, Minato."

Compared to three years ago, Sarutobi Hiruzen, his beard slightly grayer, regarded Namikaze Minato with a gaze akin to observing a priceless gem. A smile played on his lips as he spoke to the young ninja before him.

However, beneath this courteous exterior, a part of Hiruzen's mind quivered with an odd sensation. He couldn't help but silently muse on whether the Hokage's orientation was intact...

Namikaze Minato had evolved from merely being "priceless" in Hiruzen's estimation; he had become utterly invaluable.

Formidable. According to the Ministry of Information, Minato had returned from his training journey and was potentially invincible even against Tatsuya.

Remarkably, at the tender age of 17, he had already demonstrated capabilities that surpassed those of his peers.

Furthermore, Minato's civilian background and lack of familial connections within the ninja establishment allowed Hiruzen to utilize him with utmost confidence.

Another crucial aspect was his association with Uzumaki Kushina, the host of the Nine-Tails. The Nine-Tails was a potent asset firmly under Konoha's control—a card that could be employed to contain Namikaze Minato.

Truth be told, in Sarutobi Hiruzen's current perspective, Namikaze Minato had become something of a parallel to Orochimaru.

"Starting today, your official duties within the village are reinstated."

Namikaze Minato knelt on one knee and bowed his head respectfully in response to Sarutobi Hiruzen's announcement. "Yes, Master Hokage."

Yet, Hiruzen's statement was far from complete.

He continued, "However, your present level of power renders the role of a regular Anbu member inadequate. As such, you will take up the mantle of Anbu Captain."

The expression on Namikaze Minato's face underwent a rapid transformation. Throughout his journey back to the village, Namikaze Minato had, on more than one occasion, mused upon the coming days.

He had assumed that upon his return, the Third Hokage would prioritize his training and development.

He couldn't have been more mistaken.

He had scarcely set foot in the village before the position of Anbu Captain was unexpectedly bestowed upon him.

It was worth noting that since the departure of the White Fang, this role had remained vacant.

Witnessing the astonishment in Namikaze Minato's eyes, Sarutobi Hiruzen maintained his characteristic smile.

"Once occupied by the White Fang himself, this position has been unclaimed for some time. It's been a source of constant concern for me."

Hiruzen paused briefly before continuing, "However, I believe I've found a more suitable candidate in you."

The honor conveyed in Sarutobi Hiruzen's words carried an implicit message of commendation. Namikaze Minato's initial fluster transformed into a sense of humble pride as he absorbed the Hokage's affirmation.

However, beneath his appreciation lurked a growing apprehension.

Could it be that this great favor was extended with the intention of tethering him to the Elder Council's faction?

And what of Jiraiya's warnings, underscoring the strained relationship between Hiruzen and Tatsuya?

Was it possible that he was being groomed as a hidden weapon against Tatsuya?

Before he could voice his doubts, Jiraiya's voice echoed in Namikaze Minato's mind, reminding him of his teacher's counsel, "Don't refuse the old man; you won't have the luxury of doing so."

In a tone tinged with resignation, Namikaze Minato finally responded, "Very well, Master Hokage. I will do my utmost."

Hiruzen's expression remained content as he handed a specially prepared Anbu mask to Namikaze Minato from his desk drawer, signifying the beginning of a new chapter in the history of Konoha.

A few months later, near Tatsuya's hut.

"Master Tatsuya, could you teach me ninjutsu?"

Gazing at the wide eyes before him, like twinkling rubies in the evening's crimson glow, Tatsuya fell momentarily silent. Confronted with the daughter of his old brother's friend, he found it difficult to dampen her enthusiasm.

He contemplated. Had Kurenai demonstrated any significant feats in the original storyline?

Most people remembered her only for the tragic scene of her defeat at the hands of Uchiha Itachi, right? Some even claim that after defeating Itachi in Genjutsu. She planned to drown Kisame underwater.

But Tatsuya's perception of this girl was even more straightforward, recalling her growth and enviable figure.

"Alongside illusions, you could also delve into medical ninjutsu."

After a moment's reflection, Tatsuya reluctantly crafted a response that would minimize any harm. In the latter phase of the Fourth World War, superpowers were abundant, and Kage-level was no longer the pinnacle.

One couldn't even claim the title of a ninja without possessing at least a basic bloodline limit.

"Really? Then I should learn more from Tsunade-sama as well!"

Kurenai appeared content with this response, deciding to consult Tsunade on the matter when the opportunity arose.

Tatsuya couldn't fathom her true intentions.

Adding to the mix was Rin, who always trailed behind Tsunade with unwavering loyalty, and now another spirited girl was drawn to Tsunade's tutelage.

"Huh? Where's Master Tsunade?"

Kurenai turned around, scanning for Tsunade. The cohabitation of these two was a widely known secret in Konoha.

"The prodigal wife took Rin to the gambling establishment in the neighboring village early in the morning."

Tatsuya's statement carried a sense of accustomed resignation.

Nonetheless, it appeared that Rin was already adopting a role akin to Shizune's in the original narrative.

The role of following in Tsunade everywhere...

"Hurry, hurry, Let's hide here for a while!"

At that moment, a girl of the same age burst out from a forest path. The one with a blond single ponytail exclaimed urgently, "Those rascals from the casino managed to locate my home. Thankfully, Nawaki is holding them at bay. Would you mind if I take cover here?"

Blond single ponytail, emerald eyes gleaming, exuding youthful beauty and temperament. From any angle, she was undeniably stunning. It seems she has learned how to scam those Money lenders with transformation jutsu.

Though this metaphor seemed to suggest that planes could easily land on her smooth forehead.

And following closely behind this blonde Teen was Rin Nohara.

Tatsuya paid little attention, choosing instead to pivot and make his way toward the training grounds. The inner voice had grown increasingly distinct and potent of late.

...

...

Two hours later, Nawaki approached Tatsuya, his expression one of utter desolation, his eyes seemingly void of tears, as he lamented, "My sister accrued a staggering debt of 5,244,000 Ryō this time. I ended up surrendering our grandfather's cherished emerald Buddha statue—something my father treasured—to secure her release from those individuals."

"Those scoundrels must have cheated somehow, otherwise, how could I have suffered such massive losses!?"

The fiery outburst from the blond woman echoed Tatsuya's sentiments. Tatsuya and Nawaki fell into a subdued silence. Due to Tsunade's abysmal gambling skills, it seems that only the resurrection of Senju Hashirama could match her prowess in Gambling.

"Can this be reversed?"

Tatsuya's question was sudden.

"Oh, I totally forgot!"

The blond teen tapped her head and extended her index and middle fingers on both hands, curling them up and down to form a seal.

A burst of smoke erupted.

Upgrade from A to G in an instant.

Rin and Kurenai stood nearby, their eyes widening in disbelief.

Swiftly, they approached Tsunade, each pressing one side of her shoulders, their excitement verging on madness.

"Master Tsunade, what did you consume during your growth phase?"

"Have you developed any peculiar jutsu or medicine?"

"Or perhaps you've mastered a secret technique?"

"Please, enlighten us!"

Tsunade, rattled by the two girls and staring off into space, retorted angrily, "You two have pushed me to my limit!"

...

...

Let's set aside the infamous trio's scene for now. Nawaki suddenly remembered something and cast a solemn look at Tatsuya.

"Aniki, there's been a new captain among the Anbu, replacing Mr. Sakumo. The code name is... Light?"

Tatsuya glanced sideways. These trivial details didn't hold his attention. Not that he was completely indifferent.

Rather, his inner thoughts had grown louder and more distinct over recent years. He was consumed by the exploration of kendo, spending every waking moment immersed in it. Trivial things can't interrupt his practice.

Even Tsunade found cause to complain from time to time.

However, Nawaki's next topic piqued Tatsuya's interest:

Kakashi applied for early graduation.

In truth, Nawaki needn't have brought up the matter. Tatsuya had learned of it from Sakumo long ago. While not as exaggerated as the original tale, both enrollment and graduation happened within the same year.

But Kakashi, with his remarkable talent, had been in the Ninja School for three years.

There was little left for him to learn. Thus, he applied for early graduation some time ago. During the war, early graduation wasn't uncommon.

Most ninja academy students were around 10 years old upon graduation. If one waited until the sixth year, graduation would occur at age 12. It was a testament to one's ninja aptitude; nothing more.

Nawaki, however, had some intriguing news for Tatsuya. Several others had also applied for early graduation. Among them was Uchiha Obito.

Upon hearing of Kakashi's decision, Obito seemed to follow suit without hesitation.

Might Guy, the Second Crane Tail, who boasted of being Kakashi's eternal rival, was also among the early graduates.

Hokage's second son, the future bearded Asuma,

"Master Tatsuya, I've also applied for early graduation."

"Me too; Rin suggested it, and I agree. We both feel there's little left to learn in school."

The scene was joined by Loli and the two stalwart figures, Rin and Kurenai, both of whom had received special attention from Tsunade.

"Things are becoming increasingly intriguing."

A faint smile graced Tatsuya's lips. Was it already the time near the third Ninja War? In this matter, he would need to make prudent use of the developments.

Inside Hokage's office.

Observing Namikaze Minato returning from his mission, the Anbu Captain known as "Light," Sarutobi Hiruzen displayed a satisfied smile.

As expected, the reports were accurate. At the mere age of 18, he already possesses Kage-level strength.

His mastery of the One-handed Flying Thunder God Technique is exceptional, and he even exhibits a faint potential to surpass his teacher, Senju Tobirama, particularly in terms of speed, for now.

"The mission was demanding, Minato."

Sarutobi Hiruzen initiated their conversation with official pleasantries.

"Whereas, Lord Hokage, was it merely an A-level mission?"

Namikaze Minato, his face concealed by the Anbu mask, offered a reluctant smile. Truth be told, Sarutobi Hiruzen's unwavering dedication seemed almost intimidating to him.

After all, nothing comes without a cost.

The Hokage's strenuous endeavors cast a looming shadow that only Namikaze Minato perceived, akin to a colossal mountain pressing down on him.

"However, I believe the time has come for you to remove your mask and step into the limelight as an official ninja, Minato."

Sarutobi Hiruzen's unexpected proclamation caught Namikaze Minato off guard.

He had only served as the Anbu captain for a few months—was he now expected to switch divisions again?

"I hope you'll consider becoming a Jōnin instructor. The new batch of students this year is rather intriguing."

Sarutobi Hiruzen held a stack of documents, comprised of early graduation applications from the Ninja School.

The stack's thickness indicated a significant number of applicants.

Sakumo's son, Kakashi

Though his grades are modest, Uchiha Obito possesses the Uchiha lineage.

The diehard Shiranui family member, Shiranui Genma.

Kato Shizune from the Kato family, though she did not inherit the Kato Dan Spiritualization Technique.

Civilian-born Nohara Rin, who shares a close relationship with Tsunade.

Sarutobi Asuma, the Hokage's own flesh and blood.

...

...

Exhaling audibly after a day of rigorous training, Tatsuya's robust physique bore a resemblance to Zoro's.

Tatsuya assumed a cross-legged position on the grass, preparing to meditate.

Taking a deep breath, he entered a state of focused concentration known as "sword Zen," closing his eyes.

[Host: Tatsuya]

[Swordsmanship: (Hokage World) Hawkeye Black Swordsmanship (One Piece World), evolution level: 89%]

[Fire Style Ninjutsu (Hokage World) Blood Succession Limit · Inferno Style (Hokage World) Evolution: 91.4%]

[Body Flicker Technique (Hokage World) Shunpo (Shinigami World) Evolution: 30%]

After more than three years, he accessed the system panel once more.

The figures on the panel flickered before him, and Tatsuya felt as if his thoughts and even his soul momentarily detached from his body, transporting him to a dim realm.

Every step he took seemed to create ripples beneath his feet.

Yet, a silent but insistent call beckoned him forward.

Though devoid of sound, it urged him on. Tatsuya couldn't discern how much time had elapsed as he answered the call.

Finally, within the dark expanse, a fleeting spark ignited.

With renewed determination, Tatsuya raised his gaze, fixating on what lay ahead.

The light and shadows persisted as the flames subsided. An unsightly blade was discreetly embedded in the midst of the ripples.

Tatsuya uttered no words but advanced composedly toward the seemingly unremarkable sword before him. He extended his hand and grasped it.

In that fleeting instant, as palm met hilt, the obscure ripples beneath his feet transformed into intricate, web-like patterns.

Countless fractures sprawled across the previously invisible darkness.

Yet, the chance for Tatsuya to savor this moment of illumination was short-lived.

From the myriad crevices, an all-consuming blaze, potent enough to devour the world, erupted forth.

It swiftly engulfed the entirety of existence.

...

...

In the material realm, Tatsuya's eyes snapped open abruptly.

The Black Sword, originally resting on his lap, now resembled the weapon he had wielded in the Spiritual World moments ago.

Its handle featured a deep purple cord, while its design was straightforward.

No longer boasting the exceptional sharpness of Eagle Eye's blade or the elegance of Night's intricacies, nor did it possess Zoro's cutting edge or Autumn Water's flirtatious allure.

Its dissimilarity from Tatsuya's former blade was the main takeaway, albeit slightly enhanced in appearance.

"Congratulations, host, on unlocking a new dimension of evolution!"

[Asauchi sealed state Zanpakuto (Shinigami World), evolution level: 1%]

[New skill comprehended: Sword pressure.]

[Skill Description: Attainable only by a swordsman who has attained the pinnacle of mastery, Sword pressure transmutes sword intent into an incessant deterrent. It instills fear within enemies, quelling any hint of hostility and even inflicting physical harm.]

"It's almost like a Conqueror's for swordsmen," Tatsuya murmured to himself. He then clenched his right hand once more, sensing the lingering effects of the spiritual realm. He remarked, "That burning sensation from the flames wasn't a joke."

"Tatsuya."

At that very moment, a familiar voice resonated from his left.

Tatsuya instinctively turned his head, yet due to his recent return from the spiritual realm, he had yet to fully dispel his sword intent. Unintentionally, he exuded sword pressure.

As the figure leaped from a tree, it coincided with Tatsuya's gaze.

Whoosh!

Konoha's White Fang, whose might had neared the pinnacle of Kage-level, stumbled upon landing, ending up in an undignified heap on the ground.

"Are you rehearsing a comedy routine?"

Casually draping his shirt over his shoulders, Tatsuya jestingly rebuked his lingering sword intent, saying with a hint of amusement, "You alright there?"

Sakumo massaged his sore behind, his eye corners twitching involuntarily. Meanwhile, a lingering shiver of trepidation coursed through his heart.

Was the sword intent that this youngster emanated just now a tad excessive?

"What? Splitting your trousers in half? Need a hand?"

Tatsuya took a step forward, offering his assistance to Sakumo.

"They were already in two halves, to begin with."

Sakumo couldn't help but retort, yet he extended his hand, allowing Tatsuya to help him up. He stated, "Today is the early graduation ceremony for Kakashi and his batch. I estimated around a dozen kids have entered the examination hall. Let's go have a look."

Having recently concluded his training for the day and revisited the realm of the spiritual world, Tatsuya was disinclined to engage in any further practice. He dressed neatly and, alongside Sakumo, proceeded into the village.