"Teacher, isn't this the sword you had made just a few days ago?"
Nightdance exclaimed in surprise.
"Yeah. This kind of sword is too short for regular swordsmen. But for someone like him who uses the Strength of a Hundred Seal technique and doesn't primarily rely on swords for combat, it's perfect."
Kakashi Windseer replied calmly.
After their last battle, he'd gained a thorough understanding of Akaba's situation.
Akaba himself didn't have much strength or speed — his power mainly came from Monstrous Strength. Therefore, ordinary tantos couldn't withstand the immense chakra pressure from the Strength of a Hundred Seal technique.
This sword was specially crafted, with materials strong enough to endure chakra infusion.
Akaba examined it carefully. Though he wasn't an expert in swords, he could still tell quality when he saw it. This small blade was flawless in both craftsmanship and materials.
It was definitely an excellent sword!
"Uncle Windseer, it's far too valuable."
This sword would be a prized heirloom for any ordinary family. Akaba hesitated to accept such a grand gift.
"If I give it to you, then take it."
Kakashi Windseer shot him a glance before heading toward the dojo. "I've read the manga. Let's not talk about Scoop Death anymore. Tell me about Silent Steps instead. It might be useful for Anbu ninja."
"Yes, sir!"
Akaba hadn't thought of that initially, but now realized Silent Steps wasn't just useful for assassination — it could also conceal footsteps while using Hiding in Mist Technique.
Luckily, he'd spent points to unlock it, not only mastering the skill itself but also gaining the complete set of associated memories.
He proceeded to recount all the knowledge included with his exchange, covering key details and techniques comprehensively. While this might be relatively difficult for ordinary genin to grasp, Kakashi Windseer and Nightdance would have no problem.
After listening, Nightdance remained deep in thought.
However, Kakashi Windseer had already risen to his feet, taken a few steps forward, and then vanished with a 'whoosh' — completely silent [Silent Steps].
His speed was incredible.
In the next second, Kakashi Windseer appeared behind Nightdance. Akaba activated his sensing ability secretly and observed that Kakashi Windseer moved extremely fast. Even though Akaba could sense his movements, if they were actually fighting, his body probably wouldn't react quickly enough.
And this was without using Lightning Release to enhance physical abilities. If he used other acceleration ninjutsu techniques, his speed would be even more terrifying — faster than even the Scoop Death level. Unlike Scoop Death, which lacked control, Kakashi Windseer, as an elite jonin, could deliver precise high-speed slashes.
Kakashi Windseer stopped between the two young ninja.
He closed his eyes, sensing the changes in his chakra and physical condition, then spoke, "Physical energy expenditure increased by about twenty percent compared to normal, but chakra consumption remained relatively unchanged. Not suitable for frequent use, but should work well when used at critical moments."
"Yes, Teacher."
Nightdance understood that Kakashi Windseer was speaking directly to him.
Since Akaba created the technique, he naturally understood its strengths and weaknesses best, making Nightdance the only one needing an explanation.
"There are similar techniques within Anbu actually, but they aren't as refined as this one in terms of effectiveness."
Kakashi Windseer explained to Akaba.
"Considering this, we plan to establish a patent and filing system for jutsu within the Research Division to prevent ninja from redundantly developing techniques, wasting time and effort."
Akaiba casually mentioned this to Kakashi Windseer.
Though only an assistant minister, with the Hokage rarely involving himself in the Preparatory Division's affairs, Windseer essentially acted as the head himself.
"Not bad at all. I'll make sure your effort gets recognized."
Kakashi Windseer gave a small nod and added, "I'll also submit the [Silent Steps] technique to Anbu—they'll need it soon—and once they implement it, you'll earn some recognition too."
"Thanks, Uncle Windseer."
Akaiba grinned happily. With his connection to Danzo, naturally he would benefit when developing new techniques.
With Kakashi Windseer taking care of it, he saved himself the trouble of personally submitting a report.
Of course, [Silent Steps] only really worked in special situations—not something super critical—so the credit wasn't all that big. Nightdance still felt genuinely envious though.
He had already struggled enough developing his Sword Clone, but Akaiba kept coming up with new jutsu all the time.
Previously there was [Mist Phantom Scene], now [Silent Steps]; if you included the techniques developed by Sakumo and Orochimaru based on Akaiba's ideas, there were even more.
But he's just way too lazy!
Kakashi Windseer sighed inwardly.
If this guy could just work hard, his achievements would probably be two or three times what they are now. His talent is just too good. I mean, aside from him, who else among the Sakuma clan has such physical ability?
What a waste of an outstanding gift.
"I'll head to Anbu first. Keep watching over those brats, Nightdance."
Kakashi Windseer was always busy. He'd barely returned before, having learned [Silent Steps], he hurried off again.
Come to think of it, what exactly was his original position?
Akaiba thought for a moment. He remembered that Sakumo had previously mentioned something about him being the captain of Anbu?
In any case, being part of the Hokage's faction, he was likely a foothold inserted into Anbu by the Third—a sort of extension of the Third's power within Anbu.
Now, however, Root had disappeared, and Danzo had made concessions, so the Third had also withdrawn some personnel accordingly.
"Akaiba, teach me again—how exactly should my feet move?"
Nightdance felt frustrated. Kakashi Windseer grasped everything instantly, while he still didn't fully understand several points. Only after Kakashi left did he dare to ask once more.
Having just received a blade, Akaiba was in a good mood and answered patiently.
It took a few run-throughs over about half an hour, but Nightdance finally got the hang of it.
And no, that's not because he's untalented. Quite the opposite—Shinku or Shinnosuke would've probably needed days. Half an hour? That's lightning-fast!
"What about [Scoop Death]?"
Since he had already figured out [Silent Steps], wouldn't [Scoop Death] be easy too?
Nightdance pondered secretly.
Before long, though, he seemed to notice something odd about Akaiba's expression and immediately looked uncomfortable. "What?"
"Just promise me you won't turn into a mindless fanboy, alright?"
Akaiba said helplessly.
Techniques like [Scoop Death] are fine to look at, but if he used them on the battlefield, he'd end up cutting down his own allies?
Instead of studying [Scoop Death], he'd be better off mastering [Dance of the Sword] properly.
"Tsk!"
Nightdance understood the logic perfectly, but he thought it just looked cool, so he wanted to study it anyway.
"Still being sassy? I see you've been getting cocky lately since Uncle Windseer has been busy. What's the point of messing around with this junk? Couldn't you be practicing your sword techniques instead?"
Akaba scolded him.
He really didn't want Kakashi Windseer coming to have another 'heart-to-heart' talk with him. For his own safety, he had to stop things before they got out of hand.
"Aww, I just thought it looked cool at the time. Although honestly, it's not actually that useful."
Nightdance sighed regretfully.
"I'm going to head out now. Remember to tell Shinnosuke for me—the Third wants him to help me out the day after tomorrow."
Akaba specially reminded him.
"I know, I won't forget."
"Don't just worry about others. You're the same—you'd better not forget and force me to come find you later."
This conscripted helper couldn't be allowed to escape so easily.
Nightdance sighed helplessly. Though he hadn't gone out much recently, he had the feeling this kid had practically rounded up almost everyone he knew already. It was just a Preparatory Division Job Fair, yet it had turned into something like a gathering.
Going out once ended up taking until noon before he could return home. Worst of all, he couldn't even rest upon returning—right after eating, he had to start preparing related posters, requirements, and other materials for the recruitment event.
The Preparatory Division hadn't established too many programs—aside from the Taijutsu Specialized Groups and Genjutsu Specialized Groups, everything else was essentially an upgraded version of the ninja academy. But when it came to manpower, the Preparatory Division was completely understaffed. He was essentially a commander without troops, overseeing a group of temporary workers, which gave him plenty of work to do.
In addition,
After finishing those tasks, Akaba also had to review the Hokage's manuscript again—it seemed the last volume had some issues.
When he returned to the manga shop in the afternoon, he checked the updated chapter drawn by his Shadow Clones. In terms of content, it almost exactly matched the feeling he remembered from his past life.
There wasn't anything particularly controversial in the content either. Naruto's identity as a jinchuriki had long since become public knowledge, and revealing more wouldn't cause any discussions.
However,
Today's update inevitably sparked quite a bit of discussion—the comic's major antagonist "Orochimaru" wanting to kill The Third Hokage!
"Boss, this part is drawn wrong. Orochimaru here is depicted as so evil, but in real life Orochimaru is such a good person."
A young girl was pleading Orochimaru's case.
What situation is this? Someone actually giving Orochimaru a 'good person' card?
Akaba heard this and immediately came over.
The girl was dressed very simply, clearly coming from common origins, probably living pretty close to Orochimaru's residence.
"That child is very kind and pitiful too—his parents died early in the war."
"Remember, this is only a comic. In real life, Orochimaru definitely isn't like this."
Others chimed in as well.
Orochimaru's current reputation was actually quite good. Although most people didn't have deep interactions with him, no one truly believed he was a bad person.
"Orochimaru is certainly a good person himself."
Yunlang Sakuma patiently explained to the little girl, "Look, the cover states clearly that this story is purely fictional—any resemblance is purely coincidental."
"This sentence is so small, how can anyone possibly notice!"
The little girl held the book and looked closely. Only after staring carefully did she finally spot the line Yunlang Sakuma mentioned, but she didn't offer further comment on it. Apparently, the chorus of people praising Orochimaru made her feel genuinely happy deep down.
"However, in the manga, the Third had it pretty rough too. Forced back into action at his age, only to die protecting the village."
Someone couldn't help but sigh.
According to the manga, the Fourth died during the Nine-Tails attack, which led the Third to resume leadership.
If the Fourth had survived, why would the Third have had to hold everything together under pressure?
Though the plot hasn't fully unfolded yet, from the current situation, even if the Third Hokage survives, he might still struggle to continue as Hokage.
A fading ninja legend!
It's only a manga, but so far, no Hokage seems to meet a peaceful end.
"The Second was the same as well. Until the very end, he recommended the Third, giving his final efforts for the village. Truly admirable!"
Everyone inevitably thought about the Second.
Thus, everyone felt a wave of emotion and sorrow.
But this also clearly shows that these villagers believe the Second's choice of appointing Sarutobi Hiruzen as the Third was extremely wise. Indirectly proving that within just over a year of taking office, the Third had already established enough prestige and popular support.
In comparison, Danzo probably lacks such capability.
When it comes to personal charisma and village leadership, Hiruzen Sarutobi clearly has the edge.
"I hope these manga plots never become reality."
A Genin couldn't help but remark.
That really is the future, though not necessarily the present anymore.
Akaba returned to his seat to continue drawing, secretly thinking to himself.
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