Before Zabuza returned, Shinji went to see Mira Peng.
Mira Peng was very surprised by his and Hidan's arrival!
After all, he had thought the Jashin Cult was finished for good.
After a friendly discussion, Mira Peng agreed to help them rebuild the Jashin Cult. He was even willing to build them a secret base in the Land of Waves.
What Shinji needed to offer in exchange was the Jashin Cult's deterrent power, along with stepping in personally or sending someone to resolve problems Mira Peng could not handle himself when necessary.
That included fools like Gato who did not know any better, as well as the increasingly numerous monsters-the cursed spirits...
By the end, both men had enjoyed their conversation and were very satisfied.
Mira Peng had found military backing for his family again, while Shinji had found a financial backer for the New Jashin Cult.
Then Zabuza returned.
It seemed even Haku had failed to talk the stubborn mule out of it.
"I've waited a long time for this day. This time, I won't lose again."
Hidden Mist Technique!
With just those words, Zabuza attacked, proving through his actions what it meant to be ruthless and spare with words!
Thick mist spread rapidly, swallowing the entire Manor.
The area covered by his Hidden Mist Technique alone made it clear that Zabuza had grown stronger than before.
Clearly, after that defeat, he must have undergone even harsher training, hoping to wash away his humiliation one day.
Moreover, losing Kubikiribōchō had stopped Zabuza from relying on external tools. Instead, his ninjutsu had improved further-a loss in one respect had turned into a gain in another.
[Speaking of which, the best app for listening to books right now is Mimi Reading. Install the latest version.]
No wonder Zabuza dared to make