Konoha cat breeder

Chapter 92: Ramen Diplomacy

"Huh?"

Tonari looked at Sakumo Hatake with mild surprise as he noticed the older man's amused expression.

Before Sakumo could say anything, Teuchi, the owner of Ichiraku Ramen, noticed them and called out cheerfully.

"Tonari! And a new guest as well. What can I get you?"

Teuchi was in a good mood, as he often was since ending his six-and-under half-price promotion. Whenever Tonari showed up, he considered it a sign of good business.

"Teuchi-ji, I'll have the usual. As for Sakumo-san, let's start him off with your signature bowl. I think he'll be back for more."

"Got it! Just give me a minute!" Teuchi replied with a grin.

Sakumo raised an eyebrow. "You must come here often."

Tonari chuckled. "Teuchi-ji's ramen is amazing. I'm sure his Ichiraku Ramen will one day become the most famous ramen shop in all of Konoha."

Sakumo smiled. "Then I'd better give it a try."

"By the way, how did you know I wanted to learn swordsmanship?" Tonari asked, curious.

Sakumo's smile widened. "Your teacher, Orochimaru, mentioned it before he left for the frontlines. He said your swordsmanship is... lacking, but you have an unusual fondness for blades, particularly short swords. So when you said you were my fan earlier, I wasn't surprised. Ha!"

Despite his stoic appearance, Sakumo was easygoing and approachable, especially off the battlefield. His friendly demeanor made him easy to talk to, even for someone as young as Tonari.

But Tonari sensed that this warm personality might also make Sakumo vulnerable to manipulation. A man with such a finely tuned moral compass could easily spiral into self-doubt over perceived failings—a thought that nagged at Tonari.

Before he could dwell further, Teuchi served their orders. Sakumo's bowl was a standard size, while Tonari's oversized "personal basin" drew an incredulous look from the elder.

"Didn't you just have a full barbecue meal?" Sakumo asked, incredulous.

"Why waste food?" Tonari replied matter-of-factly.

They finished their meals quickly, with Tonari polishing off his massive portion as Sakumo savored the standard bowl.

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After finishing his ramen, Sakumo continued the earlier conversation, explaining the origins and styles of swordsmanship in the ninja world.

"There are two main origins of swordsmanship.

"The first comes from the ancient samurai techniques, which predate the rise of ninja. The Land of Iron is the last stronghold of samurai traditions. Their warriors are still highly skilled, and their leader, Mifune, is especially famous. It's said he once faced Hanzo of the Salamander and survived, earning Hanzo's respect.

"The second origin adapted to modern times, combining ninja techniques, chakra, and physical combat. This style is more popular among the great villages. For example, Kumogakure specializes in swordsmanship that pairs with taijutsu, while Kirigakure blends it with ninjutsu, creating unique and powerful techniques."

Tonari listened intently, absorbing every word.

"Which of these styles do you use, Sakumo-san?"

Sakumo smiled knowingly. "Neither."

"What?" Tonari blinked, confused.

Sakumo chuckled at the boy's expression. "My swordsmanship doesn't fall into those categories."

He placed his short sword on the table, unsheathing it slightly to reveal its gleaming edge. His gaze softened as he looked at the blade, almost as if it were a cherished companion.

"My swordsmanship isn't about technique or brute strength. It's a killing art.

"When I draw my blade, it's not about achieving a goal or proving skill. My swordsmanship skips all of that. When my blade leaves its sheath, someone dies. Simple as that."

"Isn't that the purpose of all swordsmanship?" Tonari asked, confused.

Sakumo shook his head. "For most, yes. But they rely on skill or power to achieve that goal.

"I don't. My swordsmanship is about pure speed. One strike, one kill."

As he spoke, a chilling intensity flickered in Sakumo's eyes. Tonari felt as if death itself were staring him down. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead.

Just as quickly, the moment passed, and Sakumo's smile returned.

"Let's see how far your swordsmanship has come," he said, standing and heading toward the door.

Tonari followed quickly, eager to learn.

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Once outside, Tonari prepared to pay for their meal, only to see Sakumo waving him off.

"No need. This one's on me," Sakumo said.

"Wait," Tonari said, puzzled. "At Ichiraku, new customers get their first bowl free!"

Sakumo froze for a moment, then burst into laughter.

"Well then," he said with a wry smile, "I guess I owe you a real lesson."

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(Chapter End)

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