In the open space of the training ground, the renowned Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist gathered. Enthusiastic onlookers hid within the surrounding bushes, eager to witness this rare event. Such an opportunity to see the famous swordsmen in action was not to be missed.
Seven individuals, seven swords, each with a distinct personality, yet none possessing the trait of shyness.
Jūzō Biwa stepped forward first, standing in the center of the clearing, sneering, "So, what's it going to be, a one-on-one or a free-for-all?"
"Either is fine!" Jinpachi Munashi jumped in, nonchalantly weighing the explosive blade in his hand. Beside him, the masked, lanky Kuriarare Kushimaru nodded, indicating that the two of them were together.
Hearing this, Jūzō Biwa let out a cold snort, a cruel smile playing on his lips. "Then let's have a free-for-all. Whoever's left standing at the end will be the leader. How about it?" He subtly glanced at Rinjin.
Among the seven swords, the one that most aided in taijutsu was undoubtedly the Executioner's Blade, capable of regenerating by absorbing the iron from an enemy's blood and helping the wielder recover stamina. But for endurance, the Greatsword Samehada was unmatched, absorbing chakra and feeding it back to its owner.
As everyone gripped their weapons, the towering Fuguki Suikazan, wielding the Greatsword Samehada, waved his hand calmly. "You all fight; I'm out." Rinjin, ignoring the disdainful looks from the others, turned to find a spot to sit and watch.
Jūzō Biwa frowned. This wouldn't do. If this guy didn't participate, he might challenge the chosen leader later, claiming he didn't partake in the fight. That would mean having to beat him down later. In his mind, he was already the leader.
He swiftly drew his sword, pointing it at Rinjin, threatening, "You better join and let me cut you down!"
"Not my concern, you guys go ahead," Rinjin replied, sitting on a clean stone.
"What?! You planning to cause trouble later?!"
"...I said it's not my concern, just pick a leader yourselves," Rinjin explained helplessly.
"What?! You want to cause trouble and be the leader?!"
Rinjin was speechless. Jūzō Biwa must have some serious issues, both mentally and with his hearing. Deciding to ignore him, Rinjin quickly formed hand seals.
Water Release: Heavenly Cry!
With a spit, several shimmering senbon shot at Jūzō Biwa with incredible speed. Unable to dodge in time, he felt a tremendous force in his hand, and the Executioner's Blade broke in two.
The crowd was stunned. That was one powerful spit! The other five swordsmen took a step back, distancing themselves from Rinjin and his spitting tactics.
As the crowd was left in shock, Jūzō Biwa's expression turned from confusion to rage. Enraged, he charged at Rinjin, shouting, "Damn it, I'll kill you and sew your mouth shut!"
"Really?" Rinjin asked lightly, forming seals again.
Water Release: Starch Syrup Gun.
Spitting out multiple white syrup bullets, Rinjin forced Jūzō Biwa into a clumsy retreat. Watching him slip on the sticky spit, Rinjin calmly wiped his mouth with a handkerchief, saying softly, "You should be glad I didn't eat garlic today."
Jūzō Biwa's face turned black. The other five swordsmen took another step back. This guy had some seriously disgusting tactics. Better not offend him!
Seeing the fight going nowhere, Rinjin decided to leave, carrying Samehada and walking away from the training ground under the shocked gazes of the onlookers.
Disguised as Fuguki Suikazan, Rinjin walked through the misty streets back to the dormitory beside the Mizukage building. He swapped places with his clone and left Kirigakure.
He wasn't avoiding the fight on purpose; he had a problem with his hair. Fuguki Suikazan had long, flowing yellow hair, whereas Rinjin had short black hair, meaning he was wearing a wig. In daily life, it wasn't an issue, but in battle, it could easily fall off, risking exposure.
Knowing the Third Mizukage was planning to attack Uzushio Village, Rinjin needed to consult with Jiraiya, who specialized in hair jutsu. Using the Flying Thunder God Technique, Rinjin quickly returned to Konoha.
Back in his original form, Rinjin felt a strange atmosphere in Konoha. Many shops were closed, and the streets were less crowded. Even the ninjas seemed hurried, as if something was chasing them.
As he walked down Tea Street towards the Hokage building, a team of Uchiha police officers stopped him. "Please show your identification."
Confused, Rinjin handed over his forehead protector and Jōnin ID. "What's going on? Why is the village so tense?"
The officer glanced up, surprised, and replied seriously, "Lady Mito was attacked!"
"What?" Rinjin's voice stretched in disbelief. "Is Lady Mito okay? Was the attacker caught?"
"Lady Mito is fine. The attacker isn't our concern. The village is under lockdown, so please stay at home. Here's your ID back, Jōnin Rinjin."
Taking his ID, Rinjin frowned. Attacking the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki was unthinkable. Who had the audacity and ability to do such a thing?
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