Chapter 178

Kaito's interest in Anko's curse mark might have seemed impulsive, but in reality, he initially had genuine plans to examine it closely. What Orochimaru had studied with the curse mark was essentially a simplified version of Sage Mode. The power within the curse mark was extracted from Jūgo, a peculiar fellow.

Jūgo was an extraordinary person whose constitution allowed him to absorb natural energy without being petrified by it. However, the natural forces in this world are so ferocious that even Jūgo was not spared from their torment. Upon activating these powers, his personality split. Ordinarily a quiet individual, he transformed into a bloodthirsty demon upon entering Sage Mode.

This trait was also clearly exhibited in Sasuke; he had no qualms about dealing fatal blows to the Sound ninjas.

"Of course, one could interpret it as their inability to master these forces. After all, these are not powers that any random person could toy with," Kaito thought to himself. But this perspective was only gained after he had befriended the Forest Spirits and initiated his own Sage Mode.

Before that, he couldn't even begin to imagine the terrifying nature of natural forces in this world. He, too, had once desired to comprehend natural energy through the curse marks. Although this remains true, his perspective now greatly differs from before.

He now hopes to better understand natural forces through these curse marks to deepen his own understanding and insights. Of course, if he could master the mechanics of the curse mark, that would be a boon for him. It means he could use these marks to uplift his clan once more—though not indiscriminately, but rather targeted toward loyal followers.

This isn't due to Kaito being miserly. With his systematic approach, he's not worried about trivial matters. Even if everyone gains this power, what then? Can they reverse bloodline degradation like Kaito can? They can't; they lack that capability!

They don't even know about Indra and Asura, let alone the Rikudou Sennin. Only those involved and transmigrators like Kaito would know such details.

Despite the small episode involving Anko, the gathering went rather smoothly overall. The atmosphere was very harmonious afterward. Even Guy, after having some drinks, specifically came over to Kaito, expressing a desire to spar with him sometime.

Kaito did not flatly refuse, for he was well aware of just how formidable Guy's potential truly was.

Ah, getting on good terms with Guy might be quite the strategic move. Although Kaito has no intention of delving into the Eight Inner Gates technique, as a master of physical combat, there's much he can glean from Guy. Why yes, glean through the Sharingan.

Beyond that, Konoha's future reforms are definitely touching upon the 'specialist shinobi' sphere. Guy, a maestro in Taijutsu, could contribute by spending some time training the next generation—no need to go full-on Rock Lee, just some basic training methods would suffice. Such a move would undoubtedly elevate Konoha as a whole. Only if prodigies emerge from the commoner-ninjas can the major clans effectively recruit these talents.

"Though it might seem a bit sinister, a stronger clan means a stronger Konoha, right? Besides, it was Sarutobi Hiruzen who forced us into this—dead or alive, his influence persists."

The gathering ended on a high note, with everyone—invited by Kakashi—forming a whole new impression of Kaito. The collective perception? Kaito is an influential yet remarkably approachable man, an outlier even within the Uchiha Clan, offering considerable respect to others. High praise, indeed, especially for someone in a position of power. Their affection for him seems to be on a steady rise.

Yet they also clearly understood that Kaito's amiability hinged on the fact that they were not enemies. If their relationships were akin to that between the Third Hokage and himself, they would be mortal foes, undoubtedly. But that's alright—ninja should hold little mercy for enemies; otherwise, it's a surefire path to mutual destruction. Enemies are hardly ever easily swayed, and you're not everyone's cup of tea, so it's probably better to eliminate them.

Kaito himself was in high spirits. The only thing that struck him as peculiar was that upon leaving the barbecue restaurant, he felt as if someone were following him. This puzzled him; who in Konoha would dare track him? His expression quickly shifted to one of bemusement, as he realized that he recognized, or just met, the owners of the two chakra signatures trailing him.

One was Anko. Her following him was understandable; he had promised to do her some favors. Her impatience was expected, given her temperament. But the other was a bit more intriguing.

"Why is it Yamato... What's he doing following me?"

Kaito is somewhat baffled. He's not exactly on familiar terms with Tenzō, even though Tenzō had indeed been shafted, courtesy of their scheming—though Kakashi was the primary actor in that drama.

This guy even showed up for Kakashi's dinner today, which presumably means he holds no grudges against him, right? So why's he trailing behind me now?

"Could it be he wants to settle scores with me? With his level of skill, isn't he biting off more than he can chew?" Kaito mused, not without a trace of malice. After all, he has laid eyes upon the legendary Hashirama Senju himself.

Even though the Hashirama he met was, for various reasons, not at his peak strength, he's still no comparison to this guy, right?

Mulling over it, Kaito decided he needs to figure out what's going on with these two, especially what this Yamato guy—or should I say, Tenzō—is up to.

Thus, Kaito casually veered off into a less frequented route. He intended to find a secluded spot to have a candid chat with these two. His demeanor remained relaxed; he doesn't think he's running into any sort of trouble, even if it turns into a fight!

However, as he walked, Kaito suddenly noticed a figure approaching him. His facial expression shifted ever so slightly upon recognizing this individual.

The person walking toward him mirrored this change; both paused for a moment, standing their ground...

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