Half a month later, inside a quiet cavern deep within a small mountain range, Hayashi returned once more.
The dim light revealed Hatake Ichiro sitting on a rough stone, looking fatigued. His eyes were bloodshot from long hours of labor.
Hayashi approached and asked, "Sensei Hatake, is my sword finished?"
Ichiro looked up, exhaustion showing on his features, but his voice carried pride. "Yes, it is finished. I doubt I can forge a better blade in my lifetime."
He reached behind him and produced a long sword etched with intricate black patterns. It was simple in design, yet carried an aura of quiet strength and mystery.
"This is it," Ichiro said, handing the sword to Hayashi. "See if you are satisfied. If not, I can make adjustments, but understand it's not a light weapon. Its weight is several times that of standard blades."
Hayashi took the sword in both hands and examined it carefully. He lingered on the weight, the balance, and the craftsmanship. It was unlike any weapon he had ever held.
He directed a small amount of lightning chakra into the blade. Immediately, sparks danced along the edge with an electric hum, as if the blade itself breathed electricity.
The sword glowed faintly in Hayashi's grip. He swung it experimentally, observing the smoothness of its motion. It felt natural in his hand, responsive to even the slightest movement. However, this was not the place to test its true capabilities.
"This is exceptional," Hayashi said after a moment. "I am very satisfied. I will take it with me."
"Go... go quickly," Ichiro waved him off weakly, gesturing with his hand. "Seeing this blade makes me almost greedy. You should leave with it before I start trying to keep it for myself."
Hayashi smiled but said nothing. He knew how much effort Ichiro had poured into this creation.
By the end of September, Hayashi and Kushina finally returned to Konohagakure after a prolonged absence.
Inside the Hokage's Office, the Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, sat quietly behind his desk. Smoke curled from his pipe as he reviewed the paperwork before him, listening intently to Hayashi's mission report.
When Hayashi finished, Hiruzen folded his hands, thought for a moment, then exhaled slowly.
"The information from Kirigakure was precise," he said. "Kushina left the village and was attacked before she even reached her destination."
Hiruzen's gaze was grave, but his voice was calm. He did not see the matter with the confusion Hayashi did—he saw clarity.
"Kirigakure's goal was the Nine‑Tails," he said. "That was their intent."
Hayashi nodded, absorbing the Hokage's deduction.
"Not many even knew Kushina was on a mission," Hiruzen continued, eyes narrowing in thought. He reviewed the few people aware of the mission in his mind. "The only one who knew was Danzo."
Hayashi understood what Hiruzen was suggesting, but neither of them had proof.
Hiruzen took a deep drag from his pipe and asked, "So, the Lightning Blade is now in your possession?"
"Yes."
"Some time ago, the Third Mizukage sent a letter requesting the Lightning Blade."
Hiruzen nodded. "He also claimed Raiga Kurosuki went on a mission and was struck without cause."
"That's what he said."
Hiruzen stood and walked around his desk, placing a hand on Hayashi's shoulder before sitting back down. "I cannot return it," he said slowly. "But we should consider what we might exchange for it. Something worthy of Kirigakure if we choose to negotiate."
Hayashi reflected on the Hokage's words. The Lightning Blade was a powerful ninja tool—one of the Seven Ninja Swords of the Mist. As elite as it was, Hayashi knew its strength lay not just in its blade, but in how it was wielded.
Only a true master of a ninja art could unlock its full potential.
"A tailed beast would be valuable," Hayashi said quietly, "but that is not something to bargain with."
Hiruzen nodded, understanding his concern. "Perhaps precious resources," he said, "but nothing that could truly weaken us."
Hayashi considered this and realized just how much time the Third Hokage had spent balancing peace between the great nations. Konohagakure's strength was not only in its warriors, but in its stability.
In the ever‑shifting landscape of ninja politics, Hiruzen's approach was to preserve balance over inciting further conflict.
"It is not weakness," Hayashi said after a long pause. "It is wisdom."
Hiruzen smiled faintly. "Wisdom that comes with age," he said.
Hayashi sighed and reached into his cloak, pulling out a scroll. He unfurled it, and the Lightning Blade appeared in his hand once more—though its form had changed.
"I've modified the Lightning Blade further," he said. "Check it."
Hiruzen took the sword, watching its new silhouette. His expression was unreadable for a moment before he spoke.
"You are truly dedicated," he said with a soft exhale. "A blade so fine and you choose to reshape it."
"The original shape didn't suit my taste," Hayashi said simply.
Hiruzen made a face but eventually nodded. "All right, let it be."
Hayashi smiled, relieved.
He then placed another scroll gently on the desk.
"Hokage‑sama," Hayashi said, his tone respectful, "there is one more thing."
"What is it?" Hiruzen asked with a tired chuckle. "I am old now; I cannot keep up with your energy."
Hayashi waved his hand dismissively. "It is not important. While crafting the blade, there were leftover materials. I did not know what Sensei Asuma prefers, so I did not decide on my own. Consider this a gift for his graduation from the academy."
Hiruzen's expression softened into a warm smile.
"You are thoughtful. When I return, I will be sure to tell Asuma. And when you have the time, visit him. Shinnosuke is not in the village, and I am often busy. As his older brother, you should teach him when you can. He holds you in high regard."
"I will," Hayashi replied sincerely.
Hiruzen stood, leading Hayashi to the doorway. "You've done well," he said. "Rest, recover, and train. The peace we enjoy is precious, and it must be protected."
Hayashi nodded, understanding both the weight and the peace of his role.