The battle between Hirito and Minato lasted just under two minutes but was intense enough to rival that of seasoned Chūnin.
It was clear that Namikaze Minato was at a disadvantage.
The relentless high-speed taijutsu exchanges and his continuous use of combination ninjutsu had left Minato visibly exhausted. Despite his superior reflexes and dynamic vision, his chakra reserves were nearing depletion, a stark contrast to Hirito, who showed no signs of fatigue. Years of practicing the Pure Breathing Technique had strengthened Hirito's body and chakra reserves, giving him a significant edge.
Hirito, assessing Minato's labored breathing and faltering stance, decided it was time to end the match.
As Minato launched another attack, Hirito whispered, "Eight Trigrams: Revolving Heaven."
Using his waist as an axis, Hirito rotated gracefully, generating a thin, light-blue chakra barrier that deflected Minato's final strike. The barrier dissipated immediately after, signifying the match's conclusion.
Minato stopped mid-motion, acknowledging the tacit signal.
"Hirito, you're as impressive as ever," Minato said, panting as he withdrew his kunai.
"And you've made remarkable progress," Hirito replied with a genuine smile. "Jiraiya-sensei must be an excellent teacher."
Minato grinned sheepishly. "He's taught me a lot, but even with everything I've learned, I couldn't keep up with you. You didn't even use your Gentle Fist..."
Minato couldn't help but reflect on the battle. Even with all his improvements, he realized the vast gap between them. If Hirito had employed the Hyuga clan's Gentle Fist, Minato wouldn't have lasted long. The thought of having his meridians blocked and movements restricted sent a shiver down his spine.
"Speed," Minato thought. "That's the key. If I want to bridge the gap, I need to get faster. Faster than Hirito."
He resolved to consult Jiraiya-sensei about developing a speed-focused technique that could rival Hirito's Shunpo. Though Minato smiled at the thought of his teacher, the determination in his eyes was undeniable.
After the match, Hirito checked in with Aburame Ryoma before sitting down with Minato to share a meal.
The absence of Yakushi Nonō was a disappointment. Both Hirito and Minato missed their third teammate, who was now deeply involved in the intelligence division.
"She's been so busy since joining the analysis class," Minato remarked, a hint of longing in his voice.
"Seems like she's thriving in her role," Hirito replied, though he shared Minato's sentiments.
Despite the brief time together, Hirito felt a deep sense of pride in Minato. Some people, like Minato, could thrive even in challenging environments. Now, under Jiraiya's tutelage, Minato's potential seemed limitless.
After replenishing supplies and enjoying the brief reunion, Hirito and his team returned to their border stronghold. Their daily routine resumed—monotonous yet essential. The reconnaissance team patrolled and ensured no foreign ninjas infiltrated the Land of Fire.
While the others occasionally found the routine dull, Hirito used the time to train diligently. Whether it was practicing the Pure Breathing Technique, experimenting with new chakra applications, or honing his Gentle Fist and swordsmanship, Hirito's focus never wavered.
Even during downtime, Hirito's imagination took over. Inspired by martial arts novels from his previous life, he experimented with variations of Eight Trigrams: Air Palm, trying to mimic fantastical techniques like the Eighteen Dragon Subduing Palms and Six Meridian Divine Sword.
These creative exercises amused Hizashi, who watched with a mix of awe and bemusement. While these experiments were largely for Hirito's entertainment, they subtly refined his chakra control and expanded his combat repertoire.
One day, during training, Hirito examined his ninja sword. Though it had served him well, it was no longer suitable for his growing stature and skill.
"This sword feels... inadequate now," Hirito mused. "I need something that adapts to me, something versatile."
A thought struck him. "If only I had a sword that could change its length freely."
The idea lingered, and Hirito recalled legendary weapons like Orochimaru's Kusanagi Sword, capable of extending to incredible lengths, and the unique weapons of Takumi Ninja Village. His mind wandered to Kirigakure's Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist, known for their extraordinary blades.
"The decapitating sword that regenerates with blood... Samehada, a blade with its own will... Kirigakure truly excels at forging unique weapons," Hirito thought.
Though tempted to pursue such a blade, Hirito restrained himself. "Not yet. I'm not strong enough. When the time comes, I'll create my own unique weapon."
Lost in thought, Hirito activated his Byakugan out of habit, scanning the surrounding area.
"Huh?" His expression hardened. Through the scope of his Byakugan, Hirito detected several humanoid chakra signatures approaching their stronghold.
He immediately alerted Aburame Ryoma and the rest of the team.
To Be Continued...