A flicker of amusement passed through Shin Uchiha's eyes when he saw Zabuza's reaction.
Zabuza had always been arrogant. Never mind yielding to ordinary people-he might even pick a fight with renowned powerhouses like Orochimaru or Jiraiya.
Yet now, he had actually stepped aside slightly for Shin Uchiha and Haku, who were dressed as civilians. That showed just how poor his condition was. He might also have been fleeing someone's pursuit.
That had to be it. At this point, Zabuza might have just attempted to assassinate the Fourth Mizukage, who was under Obito Uchiha's control. Apparently, he had failed and suffered serious injuries himself.
Shin Uchiha said nothing. He also adjusted his course slightly and led Haku onward.
When Zabuza saw their response, his face remained expressionless, but inwardly, he breathed a sigh of relief.
Just as they passed each other, Shin Uchiha suddenly raised his hand and silently patted Zabuza on the shoulder.
Only after Shin Uchiha's hand landed on his shoulder did Zabuza realize something was wrong. He jolted, then darted away like a startled bird.
After leaping away, Zabuza stared at Shin Uchiha from a short distance, alarm written across his face. Cold sweat covered his forehead, and his right hand rested on the hilt of the Kubikiribōchō.
"Who the hell are you?"
Shin Uchiha looked leisurely at Zabuza and said:
"Just a passerby. I recognized someone familiar, so I thought I'd say hello. Isn't that right, Zabuza Momochi, the Demon?"
At Shin Uchiha's words, Zabuza's pupils abruptly contracted. Realizing that the man before him had come specifically for him, he began watching him warily. His right hand tightened around his sword's hilt, ready to strike at any moment.
Meanwhile, he said, "I don't know you. I'm no acquaintance of yours."
Shin Uchiha nodded and admitted, "Actually,