Chapter 106: Consciousness
The Yamanaka clan had long been revered for their exceptional mind techniques, hence why most of their abilities were considered secret. Now that same ability, the ability to forge a direct mental bridge with another's mind, was now in Arthur's possession.
The technique wasn't merely about manipulation; it was about connection, and he understood that the ramifications of perfecting the art could be monumental. Now what he needed to do was test it.
Since revealing himself to be alive would raise questions better left unanswered, he wouldn't test this newfound skill amongst the villagers. Too many eyes wandered the streets of arguably one of the most fortified villages—that's not considering plot devices.
He needed a subject. After a moment of contemplation, his resolve solidified.
Returning the scroll, he teleported out of the village using the flying raijin technique. In mere instants, he returned to the Water Country. Anything he did here would be a lot quieter than in the Fire Country.
And the chances of encountering a wandering passerby were greater since he understood his country's layout better than most.
What he had here was an opportunity to test almost anything he desired with fewer risks.
He ventured along the sandy landscape until a figure caught his eye: a man, seemingly lost in thought as he walked along the edge of a forest.
With stealth and precision, Arthur shadowed him, staying hidden before taking swift action. Performing the correct hand sign, some chakra coalesced around his very mind, and before the man knew it, a sharp pain darted through his consciousness.
His world faded to black.
Moments later, the unsuspecting passerby awoke—but to an entirely different scene. He found himself sprawled upon a barren, desolate wasteland, the sun burning overhead.