(T/N: There is now a p.atreon for this work, and any new work I add will be dropped there first. check it out for an early release of up to 30 chapters edited smoothly. https://www.p.atreon.com/INeedRest)
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Zabuza's pupils shrank as he stood on the tree, taking in the unexpected turn of events. Originally, Kakashi was the only opponent in his eyes, a formidable challenge he was prepared to face. Now, a young kid had shattered his executioner's blade with a single, precise strike, completely ruining the dramatic entrance he had meticulously planned. In desperation, he could only jump to the side of his broken sword, the reality of the situation sinking in.
"Little brat, it seems I underestimated you and that sharp weapon of yours," he said, his tone cold and harsh as he picked up the severed blade, the weight of the situation pressing on him.
Colt sheathed his sword with a smooth, practiced motion, the action reflecting his improved swordsmanship skills. The confidence in his movements was evident, a clear indication of his growing prowess and training.
"I didn't expect someone would be foolish enough to throw their own weapon in a sneak attack," he remarked.
At the same time, a system prompt sounded in his mind:
[Kill just one, and save a whole country. 500 points will be rewarded. Ice release unlocked.]
(E/N: So, this was named ice shield bloodline limit, I couldn't understand if he just meant that demonic ice mirrors or ice release in general so I said ice release for now)
'Ice release? Is that because of Haku?'
Colt's eyes swept across the area, quickly finding Haku hiding in the shadows. He didn't linger too long on the spot, careful not to draw attention.
Zabuza's face twisted with anger and frustration. His plan had been to use a preemptive strike to build momentum, but Colt had completely destroyed his strategy. Even his mighty executioner's blade was broken, a severe blow to his confidence.
Fortunately, Zabuza knew the executioner's blade could absorb enemy blood to repair itself. He'd just have to kill some people later to fix it. Otherwise, he would have had to kill Colt for destroying it.
"Is the famous Demon of the Hidden Mist actually appearing in such a small place?" Kakashi stepped in front of Colt with a solemn expression. As a teacher, even if Colt was very strong, he should take the lead. The gravity of the situation called for his experience and leadership, despite Colt's evident skill.
"Naruto, Sakura, Sasuke, form a defensive formation to protect Tazuna," he ordered, lifting his forehead protector to reveal his three-tomoe Sharingan.
"This is Momochi Zabuza, the rogue ninja from the Hidden Mist, one of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen. Don't let your guard down."
"Copy Ninja Kakashi," Zabuza's eyes narrowed. "The legendary Konoha elite Jonin who copied thousands of jutsu. I didn't expect you to be my opponent this time."
The two exchanged verbal jabs, and Colt rolled his eyes at the display. Was this meant to highlight the opponent's skill to make themselves look better? He'd keep that tactic in mind.
Cold sweat broke out on the faces of Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura as Zabuza's figure suddenly vanished, reappearing on the water's surface.
"[Ninja Art: Hidden Mist Jutsu]!"
A thick white mist spread out, far denser than what they had encountered that morning.
"Not good!" Kakashi's eyes widened - he had underestimated Zabuza. The mist was infused with Zabuza's chakra, limiting the Sharingan's effectiveness. He could only sense Zabuza's general direction now.
The initial advantage Kakashi expected was gone.
"Kakashi, can your Sharingan see your own death?" Zabuza's voice echoed from all directions.
Kakashi retorted, "I only see your demise!"
Their killing intent burst forth simultaneously, and Naruto's team felt as if they'd been plunged into an ice bath. The oppressive aura made every inch of their skin tingle.
"Is this the true strength of a Jonin?" Sasuke's pupils dilated, his arms trembling as he tried to raise them.
"Eight vital points," Zabuza's voice rang out. "Larynx, spine, lungs, liver, jugular vein, collarbone, kidney, heart. Which should I strike first?"
Colt found Zabuza's classic speech interesting.
When he had watched this scene in his past life, he had found the idea of silent killing terrifying. Now it just sounded ridiculous. The quickest way to kill was to destroy the brain in one blow. Even with a destroyed heart, a ninja would have two seconds to counterattack or pass on information.
However, the murderous aura enveloping him was still uncomfortable.
"Kakashi-sensei, step back," Colt said, forming hand seals for a jutsu derived from the Second Hokage.
"[Bringer-of-Darkness Technique]!"
Endless darkness began to spread, quickly enveloping the space around them.
"Demon of the Hidden Mist, can your silent killing technique still work now?" Colt taunted. When it came to mind games, he could hold his own against anyone.
Zabuza was shocked. This technique was even more thorough than his Hidden Mist Jutsu - he couldn't see a thing.
How could this young swordsman be so skilled in ninjutsu as well?
In the darkness, only Colt could move normally. In an instant, he was at Zabuza's side, his lightning-charged hand piercing the swordsman's chest.
Relying on years of ninja instinct, Zabuza avoided a fatal blow but still suffered a minor injury.
"[Secret Jutsu: Crystal Ice Mirrors]!"
Suddenly, dozens of ice mirrors appeared, their reflected light shattering the Bringer-of-Darkness Technique.
A masked ninja dressed as a hunter-nin appeared before Zabuza.
"Are you alright, Zabuza-sama?" the newcomer asked.
Zabuza snorted, wrapping a bandage around his wound. "Didn't I tell you to stay hidden?"
The masked ninja, Haku, replied mildly, "The situation changed. I was worried you might be in danger facing Kakashi and this boy simultaneously."
As he spoke, Haku removed his mask, revealing a face more delicate than a woman's.
Zabuza didn't argue further. If Haku hadn't intervened, he would have been in real danger.
"Colt, this is the border of the Land of Water," Kakashi said, moving to stand beside Colt.
"Yes, we need to take them down one by one," Colt replied confidently.
"What about us, Colt?" Naruto shouted from beside Tazuna, frustrated at being sidelined.
"You guys just protect that old man," Colt said without turning. "And remember, don't die."
Sasuke's teeth clenched in frustration. Why was everyone so much stronger than him?
At that moment, his helplessness burned fiercely, a stark realization of his current weakness gripping him.
And then...
His eyes flashed red, the single-tomoe Sharingan evolving into two tomoe under the intense pressure. This advancement was significant, a testament to his potential and growth.
However, even with this newfound power, he was still outmatched on this battlefield.
Sakura felt even more helpless, resigned to staying by Tazuna's side and waiting for Colt and Kakashi to defeat their enemies. She knew her role was crucial in protecting Tazuna, but the sense of inadequacy was hard to shake as she watched her comrades take on their opponents.