Kazuyama walked ahead, carrying two baskets of snakeberries, smiling as he listened to the system prompt.
[Ding! Detected that the host forcibly fed his disciple, Obito Uchiha, snakeberries and made him do hard labor. This behavior is highly improper. Reward: +5 Genjutsu.]
This attribute boost left Kazuyama quite satisfied. He glanced at Obito, who was struggling to drag seven baskets of snakeberries behind him. This kid needs more training. It's only seven baskets, and he's already panting? His stamina is way too poor.
I'll have to increase his training in the future.
When they returned to their lodgings, Kazuyama placed all nine baskets of snakeberries in the middle of the room, then bit his finger and smeared the blood onto his arm.
"Kakashi, Rin, Obito, I'm heading to Ryūchi Cave."
"Stay here and rest. Don't go out unless it's absolutely necessary. If anyone comes looking for me, just tell them I'm asleep and won't wake up for a day or two."
Since they had returned to the Daimyō's manor, the Daimyō's side would surely continue making moves. It wouldn't be surprising if someone came tonight to discuss recruiting him into the Daimyō's forces. But Kazuyama had other matters to attend to—he wasn't about to let a Daimyō delay him.
Hearing his words, the three nodded in understanding.
Still, they couldn't help their curiosity. Just what kind of place was this Ryūchi Cave that Kazuyama mentioned?
"What? Curious?"
"I'll take you there someday. I promise it'll be an eye-opener."
"Alright, get some rest. I'm off!"
With a puff of white smoke, Kazuyama and the snakeberries vanished.
...
Ryūchi Cave.
The moment Kazuyama landed, he was immediately surrounded by several large snakes.
Kinrin, Seirin, Korin, and one unfamiliar serpent.
This new snake was deep green, adorned with intricate patterns. Its body was slightly smaller, even more so than Seirin's.
"Kazuyama, you're here! Whoa, so many snakeberries!"
"I've been waiting for this for so long!"
Kinrin, the one closest to Kazuyama, practically lit up at the sight of the berries.
Seirin and Korin looked just as eager, but the last snake remained calm and composed.
"Kinrin, Seirin, Korin, here's the snakeberries I promised you. But you only get six baskets—the other three belong to the Snake Princesses."
"And, aren't you going to introduce me to this one?"
Kazuyama's gaze lingered on the last snake, a strange gleam in his eyes. Before Kinrin or the others could respond, he muttered to himself.
"Smaller build… belly scales curving sharply toward the back… angular ridges, notched edges… even the subcaudal scales have ridges and notches."
"I never expected Ryūchi Cave to have a flying snake…"
"Golden python, bamboo viper, rattlesnake, golden flower snake…"
"So, the four sisters each govern their own domain? Fascinating."
His words left all four snakes momentarily stunned.
Because he was right—the last snake was indeed a golden flower snake, also known as "flying snake."
Clap, clap, clap…
"Not bad, kid. Your knowledge of snakes is impressive. You're truly worthy of inheriting Ryūchi Cave's legacy."
Three figures descended from the depths of Ryūchi Cave—the three Snake Princesses. The one speaking was Tagorihime.
The moment they arrived, the four large snakes immediately bowed their heads in deference. Though they were powerful in their own right, they were still no match for the Snake Princesses.
After all, these three were the direct disciples of the White Snake Sage.
"Kazuyama, I never would have guessed you were a Jinchūriki."
That single sentence left him completely stunned. He turned to look at Tagitsuhime, his gaze full of disbelief. You actually leaked this?!
Tagitsuhime sighed helplessly.
"It wasn't me. You let your Tailed Beast's chakra slip, and the White Snake Sage sensed it."
"Now, you'll have to come with us to meet her."
"She wants to see you."
Kazuyama felt a headache coming on. He had been so careful, yet he still got found out.
Damn, the White Snake Sage's sensory abilities are ridiculously sharp.
"Fine, I'll go meet her."
"But first, was I right about what I said earlier? Also, what's this snake's name?"
The flying snake slithered forward, its golden eyes gleaming with approval.
"My name is Yulin. You were correct—I am a golden flower snake, also known as a flying snake. My ability allows me to glide for short distances."
"Kazuyama, for my three sisters to speak so highly of you, you must have some real skill. I hope I get the chance to witness your strength myself."
"A Jinchūriki, huh? Hehehe... I have high expectations for you."
Kazuyama chuckled and nodded. A flying snake? Flight was an incredibly rare ability in this world.
And considering her massive size, the fact that she could still fly was downright terrifying.
"Kinrin, those three baskets of snakeberries are ours. If you dare eat them, I'll beat you up!"
"Let's go, Kazuyama."
Tagitsuhime shot a warning glance at Kinrin, who had already started munching. Her voice carried a clear threat.
Kinrin shuddered mid-bite, hurriedly nodding to show she wouldn't touch them again.
...
Back in the depths of Ryūchi Cave, they arrived at the familiar temple.
The same vast chamber.
The same colossal white serpent.
"Hehehe… little brat, you're here."
"Well, the White Snake Sage summoned me, so of course, I came. I am a disciple of Ryūchi Cave, after all."
The White Snake Sage let out a deep, amused laugh.
"I have always prided myself on knowing everything that happens in this world. Even that old toad isn't my equal in this regard."
"And yet, I failed to see through you at first."
"A Jinchūriki of the Seven-Tails, hmm? Not bad."
Kazuyama smirked, full of confidence.
"Well, I specialize in the art of concealment. To be the only one capable of hiding from the White Snake Sage's perception… I'd say that's quite the accomplishment."
"Yes, I am the Seven-Tails' Jinchūriki."
At this point, there was no point in pretending—he might as well come clean.
"Impressive. Ryūchi Cave has always attracted those who seek power. When I first met you, I had my doubts, but now, it seems you fit the pattern perfectly."
"To possess a Tailed Beast is to be a symbol of strength."
"And judging by your chakra, you and the Seven-Tails seem to be on good terms. If there were hostility between you, the Coiling Serpent Technique wouldn't have worked."
"It appears I misjudged you once."
"A perfect Jinchūriki… Hehehe… Kazuyama, you truly are something special."
...
(100 Chapters Ahead)
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