Chapter 72: Another Tool
In a desolate landscape, wind howls through the branches of gnarled trees.
It wasn't an ideal training ground, but it served its purpose: isolation and focus. At Arthur's side stood Tatewaki, the reanimated form of the once-proud samurai.
He'd chosen Tatewaki for this because, unlike his ideal choice of Minato, controlling the former swordsman didn't require Sage Mode.
Tatewaki's will, though present, was subdued, overridden by Arthur's command: fight him at full strength until he kills Arthur.
The advantage for Arthur was manifold—an opponent with unlimited stamina, regenerative abilities, and access to powerful sword techniques. The disadvantage, of course, was Tatewaki's inherent anger at being turned into a living puppet.
Tatewaki held a katana with resentment. It was the same blade that Arthur had infused with his ice chakra, making it both deadly and incredibly difficult to break.
Arthur himself held his Boltswords, the first of his six weapons he needed to perfect.
"Young man, this is a mockery," Tatewaki bellowed. "Is this all you can do? Defile the dead to fuel your delusions?"
Arthur didn't let the outburst get to him. Words wouldn't deter him.
"Be quiet, NPC... You have your command; now follow it."
He lunged, the Boltswords covered in blue electricity. Tatewaki parried the strike, the ice-infused katana meeting the electrified metal.