As for the newly developed version of the foundational internal energy technique, it no longer deserved the label of "basic."
"This is a chakra internal art I've developed specifically for myself," Kin mused. "Its future development will be multifaceted."
After a moment of consideration, he decided, "Let's call it the Heavenly Demon Art." After all, it sounded rather appealing.
Kin extended his hand, watching as chakra coalesced in his palm. The once-blue chakra had now turned ink-black.
"Shadow Clones and basic transformation techniques aren't significantly affected," he noted. "But other breathing methods and fire-release jutsu can be tossed straight into the trash. I need a new breathing method for my sword techniques, and my chakra now amplifies Yin-based ninjutsu."
Though most Yin-based techniques were secret arts guarded by various clans, Kin's fixed chakra attributes allowed him to use any that weren't bloodline limits. In fact, he even had an innate advantage in learning them.
The only question was whether people would suspect if the Uchiha clan had strayed or the Nara clan had been unfaithful. A thought worth pondering.
Still, openly using the Nara clan's Shadow Imitation Technique in Konoha as an Uchiha wouldn't be ideal. His friction with Nara Shikaku wasn't due to any real conflict—just a shared preference for mature women. A rivalry between men, nothing more. There was no actual animosity between him and the Nara clan.
His gaze shifted to the copy of the Scroll of Seals, where one technique in particular caught his attention.
"Darkness Genjutsu Technique," Kin murmured, rubbing his chin. If he recalled correctly, official lore stated this was a jutsu developed by Senju Tobirama specifically to counter the Uchiha's Sharingan. Though labeled as a genjutsu, it functioned more like a ninjutsu.
While genjutsu typically invaded the target's mind, the Darkness Genjutsu created an actual dark space. Standard genjutsu release methods wouldn't work on it. Without the caster's permission, all within its range would be left in utter darkness—a visual-blocking ninjutsu.
Against non-Uchiha opponents, its effectiveness was limited. A single large-scale ninjutsu could easily dismantle it.
As for the Uchiha clan—aside from Kin himself—they all maintained inexplicable confidence in their Sharingan.
It's not even the Mangekyō. What are they so proud of?
"But what if I combine it with the Shadow Imitation Technique and Sharingan enhancement?" The darkness he created could become his domain.
And if he added the Flying Thunder God Technique to the mix...
Kin glanced at the Flying Thunder God entry in the Scroll of Seals. This technique required spatial aptitude and deep understanding of sealing arts—qualities he possessed.
"One step at a time," he sighed. He hadn't even begun cultivating the Heavenly Demon Art yet.
This chakra internal art's development path was clear: absorb chakra, lifespan, vitality, and even blood energy.
"These are all goals to achieve gradually."
Though Kin had many ideas, they remained just that—ideas. First, he needed to master the Heavenly Demon Art's basics.
Knock. Knock.
The sound interrupted his thoughts.
Rubbing his dark circles—evidence of sleepless nights spent trying to master the technique—Kin trudged to the door.
"Who is it?" he yawned while opening it.
Standing outside was Uchiha Yashiro.
"Brother Yashiro, what brings you here today?" Kin invited him in, his hospitality contrasting sharply with his usual demeanor toward certain uninvited Uchiha guests.
After serving fruit, Yashiro chuckled and explained, "I came to say goodbye. I'm heading to the Land of Hot Springs tomorrow."
The Land of Hot Springs bordered both the Land of Fire and the Land of Water.
"You mentioned it last time. I remember," Kin said, recalling their previous encounter when Yashiro had spoken of going to the front lines with Fugaku. He just hadn't expected a personal farewell visit.
Noticing Kin's heavy dark circles, Yashiro began lecturing like an old man. "You need rest... You're still young..."
Kin nearly dozed off. While Yashiro was kind, his habit of nagging younger clansmen remained inexplicable.
Seeing no end to the lecture, Kin quickly changed the subject. "Brother Yashiro, what's Kirigakure's current situation?"
Among the Five Great Shinobi Villages, Kirigakure embodied the ideal ninja village—specializing in covert assassinations. While lacking large-scale destructive techniques, they boasted numerous formidable assassins.
"Kirigakure..." Yashiro frowned. "They're hard to read. Most battles in the Land of Hot Springs have been against cultist ninjas. Kirigakure shinobi appear mysteriously, then vanish."
"At least our outposts haven't become full trench camps yet. That's good news."
Every Uchiha needed thorough knowledge of Kirigakure's tactics, given how often they were deployed against them.
Truthfully, Kirigakure's abilities countered the Uchiha poorly. Their water-release techniques naturally opposed Uchiha fire-release, and their signature Hidden Mist Technique neutralized the Sharingan's visual prowess completely.
"Actually, the Byakugan with its penetrating vision would be the most effective bloodline against Kirigakure's techniques. Yet Konoha deploys Hyuga members sparingly across all fronts, leaving the Uchiha to handle the Hidden Mist Village alone."
"Cultists, huh?" Kin's interest sparked as he recalled a certain immortal ninja from the future. "Do they have any undying techniques?"
He was intensely curious about the jutsu Future Hidan would use.
Yashiro shook his head. "No immortal techniques, just exceptionally bizarre ninjutsu that's hard to defend against. Without proper intelligence, engaging cultist ninjas recklessly will cost you dearly."
The veteran had learned this through bitter experience. Unlike conventional ninja who specialized in one of the three main disciplines, these cultists from Hot Springs Country defied all logic - sometimes a mere genin could kill a jōnin, while a seemingly powerful elite might fall to an ordinary chuunin.
"Then, Brother Yashiro, have you heard of the Jashin Cult?"
"Jashin Cult?" Yashiro frowned. "Never heard of it. Probably some minor sect. Why the interest?"
Though famous for its hot springs, this small nation inexplicably produced extraordinary forces during wartime, spawning countless strange religious groups. The current Takigakure might even rival Amegakure in strength.
"If you hear anything about them, let me know."
The power of immortality - even Kin coveted it. If he could fully understand that ability...
He might just obtain it for himself.
...
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[End of Chapter]