Chapter 43: Hashirama Cells
"Duy, what kind of technique is this?" Sakumo asked, unable to hide his curiosity.
"I call it the Eight Inner Gates," Duy replied honestly. "But for now, I can only open the Sixth Gate."
"This technique... it can open the Eight Inner Gates and surpass Kage-level strength?" Nayuki chimed in, recalling Kawakaze's earlier words.
Duy nodded, his expression turning serious. "Yes, but the eighth gate— the Gate of Death—comes at the cost of one's life. It should only be used as a last resort."
Kawakaze's face grew solemn. He knew all too well what would happen if the eighth gate were opened. After all, Duy's eventual death would come from doing just that.
"Haha, it's too early to worry about that," Duy laughed, brushing off the gravity of the topic. "I'm nowhere near that level yet."
"Um... could I learn your technique?"
Sakumo hesitated, his face reddening slightly as he finally voiced his request. The Eight Gates tempted him, their potential power too alluring to ignore.
"Sakumo!" Nayuki's voice carried both concern and disapproval. She felt it was not only rude to make such a request but also dangerous for her husband to practice such a life-threatening technique.
"It's fine, it's just an Taijutsu Technique," Duy said warmly, brushing off Nayuki's worries. "If Big Brother Sakumo wants to learn, I'll be happy to teach him."
He smiled brightly. "How could I leave a comrade unaccompanied on the road of youth?"