Bam!
A single punch connected.
Crack—
The wooden stake shuddered violently before emitting the sharp sound of splintering wood.
A faint smile surfaced on Masahiko's face.
Throughout the previous night, he had been secluded within the System's training space, endlessly deducing and simulating the mechanics of the Cursed Tongue Eradication Seal. Now, he had confirmed his theory.
By utilizing the power of the Shikotsumyaku, he could manipulate his hyoid and throat bones to briefly compress—or even sever—the chakra circulation network connected to his tongue. Simultaneously, by coordinating this with the regenerative cycling of the Water Jellyfish Technique, he could ensure the compressed tissues wouldn't suffer from necrosis.
He had used the Shikotsumyaku to reinforce his skeletal structure, leveraging the denser bones to amplify the explosive power of his physical frame. The result was a comprehensive boost to both the speed and force of his punch.
With these preparations complete, he was confident enough to neutralize the side effects of the Cursed Tongue Eradication Seal. Only then did he dare to step out and train openly.
'The amplification of raw power is roughly twice as effective as standard chakra reinforcement. The speed boost is less dramatic, but my resistance to physical trauma has skyrocketed,' Masahiko analyzed pragmatically. 'The Kaguya Clan likely possesses inherited techniques similar to this. It's no wonder Kimimaro could effortlessly keep up with Rock Lee, despite Lee's relentless physical conditioning.'
Kekkei Genkai really were unreasonable. Fortunately, he now possessed one of his own.
Masahiko retracted his fist, wasting no further energy. He had already utilized this technique countless times within the training space; this was merely his first application in reality. Theoretically, he could push the power output even higher, but his current muscle fibers couldn't withstand that level of strain. Attempting it would result in torn muscles and internal hemorrhaging.
Masahiko had dubbed that theoretical state "Overload."
However, the successful bone reinforcement sparked another idea. The power of the Shikotsumyaku didn't conflict with his Collapsing Torrent (Bēngliú) or standard chakra reinforcement. If his muscle tissue could be strengthened to withstand the strain... the destructive power in that state would undoubtedly surpass even "Overload."
But even steel bars have a breaking point, and human muscles are far from steel.
'Perhaps once the research on the Fluid Mantle is complete, I can achieve a state where my body is saturated with chakra. Then, utilizing Water Style chakra and medical ninjutsu, I might be able to realize that concept.' Masahiko mentally noted his progress. 'Looking at it this way, the priority is still the Fluid Mantle, followed by the development of a Water Style Chakra Mode.'
He took out a pen and paper, jotting down these flashes of inspiration.
'Next step... Genjutsu training.'
Masahiko checked off an item on his schedule and prepared to resume his cultivation. Movements, light, shadow, sound—all were mediums.
Mediums.
Masahiko's thoughts drifted to the Yamanaka Clan. Their Mind Body Switch Technique required a specific hand seal to complete the transmission; in a sense, they were constructing a spiritual medium.
'If I think about it that way, Genjutsu isn't actually that difficult.'
Of course, that was only in theory. In practice...
"As expected, another failure."
"Again."
Masahiko kept his expression blank as he continued his attempts. There was a specific reason he was training out here in reality.
Not far away, an Anbu operative was watching him from a distance, occasionally shifting positions with commendable dedication. However, what the operative didn't notice was a fish swimming near the riverbank just a short distance from him, periodically poking its head out to gaze in Masahiko's direction.
'Anbu...'
'Danzō's men? Unlikely. This is the Academy grounds; they don't have the reach to operate this openly here.'
After the assassination attempt on Shisui, the Root squad's operational range within Konoha had been severely curtailed. The Academy was strictly off-limits.
Masahiko fell into deep thought. The Third Hokage?
'My dealings with Danzō obviously couldn't be hidden from Hiruzen and the Anbu forever. But... this isn't unexpected.'
The current Hiruzen Sarutobi might have lost the lion-like vigor of his prime, but Konoha remained his territory. Given Masahiko's close interactions with Danzō, it would be stranger if the Hokage hadn't noticed something amiss.
Masahiko pretended not to notice the surveillance. After practicing Genjutsu for a while, he seemingly gave up and switched to running laps.
As he passed the usual spot, insects buzzed through the air, but this time, he didn't stop.
It was evening when Masahiko finally returned home.
Whoosh!
A mass of insects coalesced, and Toge appeared before him.
"Danzō-sama requests your presence."
"But..."
"Arrangements have been made to mask your movements. You need not worry."
"Understood."
Masahiko nodded and followed Toge into the shadows.
Inside a dimly lit secret chamber.
Beside Danzō's hand lay a scroll, and on the other side, a small vial of medicine.
"Lord Danzō, we have arrived."
"Bring him in."
"Yes!"
Moments later, Masahiko walked alone down the corridor leading into the heart of the base. Unlike previous visits, no Genjutsu was used to knock him unconscious. He had been led straight in.
This was his first time seeing the true state of a Root stronghold.
However, this was not necessarily a good thing. A man like Danzō was no philanthropist. The investment and protection he provided came with a price tag. And now, it seemed, the bill had come due.
Masahiko's steps were steady as he approached Danzō. He immediately bowed with respect. "Danzō-sama!"
"Mm."
Danzō opened his eye, looking Masahiko up and down. Finally, he squeezed out a thin smile.
"You have improved rapidly as of late. This proves you possess talent. As long as you receive the proper support, you are no weaker than those so-called geniuses."
"It is entirely thanks to your cultivation, Danzō-sama. Without you, there would be no Masahiko today," Masahiko responded with gratitude and reverence. Then, he allowed a look of hesitation to cross his face. "However..."
"Speak." Danzō leaned back in his chair.
"Today, there seemed to be Anbu lurking around me. This subordinate is worried... does the Hokage-sama know something?"
"It matters not. I called you here today precisely to resolve this issue."
Danzō chuckled dryly. "Originally, my organization only accepted ninja we raised ourselves. But you are truly exceptional, so I am willing to make an exception."
He pointed to the items on either side of him.
"On the left is a special Cursed Seal. It ensures your loyalty."
"On the right is a poison. It requires regular doses of an antidote, which only I possess."
Danzō smiled, his expression unreadable. "Choose one."
"The left."
Masahiko didn't hesitate for a second. "Before this subordinate met you, Danzō-sama, I had nothing. Everything I have now was bestowed by you. I am willing to pledge my eternal loyalty to you!"
"You won't reconsider?" Danzō narrowed his visible eye.
Masahiko answered firmly, "Following you, Danzō-sama, allows me to achieve more and fulfill my long-cherished desires. But following the Hokage-sama..."
He shook his head.
"Hokage-sama treats me well, but he is too lenient with the Demon Fox, and far too merciful toward the various clans and foreign enemies."
"My philosophy does not align with his."
Masahiko delivered his answer with "frankness."
Hearing this, Danzō smiled—a genuine expression of satisfaction. "Very good! That you can recognize this proves I did not misjudge you."
He leaned forward slightly.
"As long as you remain loyal to me and work hard, I believe that one day, you will become my perfect successor. Perhaps... even surpass me!"
"You are like the sun and the bright moon, Danzō-sama, while this subordinate is but a firefly, only able to shine by borrowing your light. How could I ever compete with your brilliance?" Masahiko hurriedly expressed his humble loyalty.
Danzō laughed aloud, though his gaze remained cold and indifferent. "Then, stick out your tongue. I will apply the seal."
"Yes!"
Masahiko obediently extended his tongue.
Danzō unfurled the scroll. Around them, shadowy figures emerged from the darkness, each forming hand seals. Pitch-black shadows extended from their feet, snaking across the floor.
At the same time, Danzō formed his own seals.
In an instant, the shadows converged on Masahiko from all directions, gathering into a dense mass of black markings directly on his tongue.
A sharp, stinging pain radiated from the root of his tongue.
A split second later, Masahiko felt a faint trace of chakra travel from his tongue, up along his nerves, and burrow into his brain.
The Cursed Seal was complete.
Masahiko showed no curiosity, lowering his head respectfully. "Danzō-sama, am I now truly a member of the organization?"
"Indeed. We are the Root that exists beneath the leaves of Konoha. An organization that lurks in the darkness to protect the village. Everything we do is for Konoha."
Danzō delivered his speech with righteous gravity.
Masahiko dropped to one knee. "This subordinate is willing to do whatever it takes to become the strongest root in your service!"
"Mm, excellent."
A look of appreciation finally appeared in Danzō's eye. "This is just one of our bases. I will inform you of the others in due time. For now, I have a mission for you."
"Please give your orders, Danzō-sama!" Masahiko said without hesitation.
A ruthless glint flashed through Danzō's eye.
"I suspect the rogue ninja Shisui was rescued by Orochimaru. I need you to make contact with Orochimaru's subordinates and help me investigate the truth of this matter."
"That figure in the black robe?"
Masahiko looked up, appearing to think for a moment. "Then... the next time we meet, I will propose a request to defect directly to Orochimaru, asking him to facilitate an introduction."
"I only require success. The method is up to you."
Danzō looked at Masahiko. "Do you require any assistance?"
Masahiko replied, "This subordinate has heard that Orochimaru is a fanatic for research. I hope to obtain records of his past deeds and his research notes, so that I may better understand him."
"Granted."