Konoha's Sword Saint [115]

Gekkō Hoshiyomi nodded firmly.

"I'm ready to open the Sixth Gate, and my swordsmanship has improved enough. I believe it's enough to break through Terrifying Death Limit."

"Good, good, good."

Sarutobi Hiruzen repeated before gesturing to an ANBU operative.

"Go inform Captain Torifu that Hoshiyomi has returned. Tell him to meet us at the Senju Clan compound."

After sending the ANBU off, Hiruzen noticed Asuka at Hoshiyomi's side. He looked her over and asked:

"And who is this young lady?"

Hoshiyomi recounted everything: Asuka's illness, their duel, and the care and request from Sanjun. Asuka then handed Hiruzen her father's letter. Scanning it, he raised an impressed eyebrow—the leader of the Land of Iron indeed acts decisively.

The letter reaffirmed Hoshiyomi's story and added a promise: if Konoha cured Asuka, imports of iron ore would be discounted by 5% for five years—a deal worth hundreds of millions of ryo over time.

Though the Land of Iron typically abstained from shinobi affairs, its strategic resources made this a deal Konoha couldn't ignore. Even without Hoshiyomi's involvement, Hiruzen was committed to helping Asuka.

After a thoughtful moment, Hiruzen turned to Asuka:

"Miss Asuka, unfortunately Tsunade is away on a mission, but she'll return in a couple of days. Until then, an ANBU will escort you to Konoha Hospital for an initial examination. When Tsunade returns, she'll start treatment immediately. You'll be well taken care of, with attendants if you wish to step out. Rest assured, Tsunade will treat you personally."

Hiruzen's arrangements were both thoughtful and proper. Hoshiyomi reassured Asuka that there was nothing to worry about and promised to visit her during treatment. Seeing no issue, Asuka agreed without hesitation and followed the ANBU to Konoha Hospital.

Once Asuka departed, Hiruzen and Hoshiyomi headed to the Senju Clan compound, where they'd begin the breakthrough process.

At the compound, Torifu, Mito, Hiruzen, and Hoshiyomi gathered. The senior shinobi greeted Hoshiyomi warmly.

Mito took charge after the pleasantries, scrutinizing Hoshiyomi:

"Are you absolutely sure your Eight Inner Gates can reach the Sixth Gate without causing critical harm?"

Hoshiyomi nodded seriously.

Mito then explained the plan:

"Since you're confident, we'll proceed to break Terrifying Death Limit. I will remove the two seals on your back. Hiruzen will weaken the seal with his curse-symbol jutsu. Then you, Hoshiyomi, will open the Sixth Gate and break through. Torifu will provide defense support. If things go awry, I'll restrain you with Adamantine Chains, and Torifu will knock you out so I can reseal you. Is everyone clear on their roles?"

They all replied:

"Understood!"

Mito issued one final reminder:

"We'll do our best, but this will strain your body. You must outlast the process on your own."

Hoshiyomi responded with resolve:

"Don't worry, Lady Mito. I'm ready."

Mito nodded and added:

"Let's move to Tobirama's old training ground. It's spacious and reinforced with barrier jutsu—suitable for what we're about to do."

They proceeded to the old training grounds. As Mito had said, it was wide and protected by defensive seals.

Hiruzen prepared his vial of blood. Hoshiyomi disrobed. Mito performed hand seals and removed the two seals from Hoshiyomi's back effortlessly. Hiruzen used his blood-stained finger to trace ritual symbols.

After about ten minutes, he sighed:

"I've done what I can. From here, it's up to you, Hoshiyomi."

Hoshiyomi steadied himself and, after a silent moment, focused his strength. Thirty seconds passed before he took a deep breath and yelled:

"Sixth Gate… Gate of Joy—Open!"

Instantly, a terrifying aura exploded from him. A gust swept through, whipping the fabric of the onlookers.

His skin turned deep crimson. A surge of green chakra burst forth, lifting his hair by sheer force.

He felt immense power—the feeling that a punch could tear through air itself.

The three people around him also showed expressions of surprise as they felt the surging power from Hoshiyomi. Just then, Hiruzen spoke with a grave expression,

"It begins…"

In that moment, the skull-shaped Terrifying Death Limit mark on Hoshiyomi's back activated. Like a seal from legend, cursed symbols spread across his chakra pathways.

Though he'd peaked with Gate Six, agony crashed over him. A muffled groan escaped.

The skull's violet flames intensified as the curse-symbols shifted. Green chakra hissed alongside eerie violet flames, weaving a chilling beauty.

But Hoshiyomi felt no pleasure. The surge of chakra made the curse's torment multiply—like meat being ripped and grilled alive.

His whole body trembled with uncontrolled shakes. Beast-like roars tore from his throat.

Just as he felt himself slipping, Mito's voice cut through the pain:

"Focus! The curse symbols have spread through your body—they're weakest now. Break through them!"

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