Chapter 49: No Fear
The next few days passed quicker than one would have expected.
Arthur diligently practiced for the upcoming tournament, training alone to perfect his basic skills. He couldn't afford to appear rusty or underestimate his opponents, even the ones he deemed weaker.
Sasuke would by no means be considered a looming threat. Arthur had yet to gauge the extent of Sasuke's newfound powers, but if he was following his counterpart as in the original story, he wouldn't be too difficult to handle.
Meanwhile, Arthur continued to refine his other techniques. He focused heavily on perfecting the chakra flow to execute stronger ninjutsu and escape illusions. He spent hours practicing hand signs and meditating, visualizing the intricate flow of energy within his own body.
Throughout that time, no one was aware of his true acts.
One night, as he sat cross-legged under the shade of a large oak tree, concentrating on a complex natural energy flow pattern, a thought struck him.
He remembered his conversation with Alex about the curse mark. Alex had mentioned trying to convert Orochimaru's chakra and make it his own. If Arthur could learn how to also do that, would he be able to orchestrate something new with the reanimation technique?
The possibility seemed plausible, but not something that could help him grow in power. If Alex could harness such potent chakra from a Sannin, what other forbidden things might he be experimenting with?
Regardless, Arthur wouldn't fall behind. He couldn't afford to let either player or character rise above him. His life was on the line.
He stood up, clearing the black sclera from his eyes. He had a lot to learn, as well as a lot of dangerous options to consider. But one thing was certain: He was still going to destroy this village one day.
His need for vengeance hadn't consumed him, as he knew when to execute his plans.