Death Is Not the Opposite of Life, but a Part of It That Lives on Forever

"Third Hokage, can you leave Hanzo to me?"

The one who spoke was Mifune, who had rushed over after hearing the news. Hanzo held an extremely complicated place in his heart.

Back when Mifune first challenged Hanzo, he had been easily defeated. Yet Hanzo had not only spared his life, but had also given him the antidote.

That had made Mifune deeply admire Hanzo at the time.

But the current Hanzo had clearly been blinded by hatred.

Since someone was willing to step forward, Hiruzen Sarutobi had no reason to refuse.

"Alright, Hanzo is yours. I happen to want to trade blows with the Third Raikage."

Incidentally, the Third Hokage and the Third Raikage were old enemies as well.

Hanzo recognized the newcomer too. "So it's you. What, are you here to die again this time? Hiruzen Sarutobi, wait two minutes. I'll quickly deal with this fool who doesn't know his place."

With a savage grin, he raised his scythe.

Chain Scythe Double Strike

Mifune had lost to this very move back then. Hanzo could already see him collapsing to the ground.

"Don't underestimate me."

Iaido Slash

He bent down, gripped his sword, drew it, and sheathed it again in one fluid motion.

It was so fast that even Hanzo failed to see Mifune's movement. The chain wrapped around the scythe was instantly severed, and the scythe in Hanzo's hand was knocked flying.

"I'm no longer the man I was before. No one should remain trapped in their past impressions."

A surge of fury instantly welled up in Hanzo's heart. A minor nobody he could once kill at will had actually knocked his weapon away. It was utterly unforgivable.

And he even dared to mock him in return.

Summoning Technique—Salamander—Ibu se

A huge mudfish appeared. Hanzo retrieved his scythe and