Mifune's residence was a traditional Japanese-style home, unremarkable in most respects. However, what set it apart was the sheer number of swords adorning the walls.
"Please, take a seat, young man," Mifune said, gesturing toward the tatami mat.
Kakashi sat on the futon and nodded. "Thank you."
"You're from Konoha, aren't you?" Mifune inquired.
Kakashi blinked in surprise. "Yes. But how did you know?" At this moment, he was not wearing his Konoha uniform or forehead protector. His Sharingan was concealed beneath a white cloth, leaving no obvious identifiers.
Mifune chuckled. "The Land of Snow is closest to Konoha, and its reputation as the most reliable ninja village precedes it. If Zaoxue sought help, Konoha was the obvious choice."
"I see," Kakashi murmured.
"It seems Zaoxue knew he was powerless against his brother and called upon Konoha as a last resort," Mifune sighed.
Kakashi remained silent. As a shinobi, he refrained from commenting on his clients' decisions.
Beside him, Koyuki was also quiet, lost in thoughts of her father.
After a moment, Kakashi stood up. "Mr. Mifune, I'll leave Koyuki in your care. My mission is complete, so I'll be taking my leave."
"Brother Kakashi, are you leaving?" Koyuki's eyes welled with tears. "Don't leave me alone."
Kakashi sighed inwardly. At this stage, Koyuki was still an innocent child, untouched by the cynicism she would develop later in life. He found himself at a loss on how to handle her emotions.
"Koyuki, you'll be safe with Mr. Mifune. One day, you can visit me in Konoha, alright?" Kakashi ruffled her hair gently.
"But… I don't want you to go."
Over the past three days, Koyuki had come to rely on Kakashi, the only person she had left. However, bringing her to Konoha was out of the question. Her identity was too delicate, and Konoha was in a weakened state—taking her in could bring unnecessary trouble.
"I'm sorry, Koyuki, but I can't take you with me," Kakashi said firmly.
Tears streamed down her face as she sobbed uncontrollably.
Mifune watched the scene and commented, "She's quite attached to you, young man."
Kakashi sighed. "Mr. Mifune, you understand that Koyuki is safer here with you."
Mifune nodded. "Yes, Zaoxue entrusted her to me. I will see to her safety."
"Thank you." Kakashi turned to leave, but Mifune's eyes suddenly widened in shock. "Wait a moment!"
Kakashi stopped and turned back. "What is it, Mr. Mifune?"
"That sword on your back… is that the White Fang's blade?" Mifune's voice carried a note of disbelief and reverence.
Instantly, Kakashi's guard went up. The name of Konoha's White Fang had made both friends and enemies across the ninja world. If Mifune bore a grudge, things could turn ugly.
A tense silence hung in the air.
Noticing Kakashi's wariness, Mifune quickly added, "Relax. I was not Shumo's enemy—I was his friend."
At the mention of his father's name, Kakashi eased his stance. "Yes, this is my father's White Fang blade… though it is broken now." He unsheathed the shortened sword and held it out.
Mifune took the fractured blade in his hands, his eyes reflecting nostalgia. "So it truly is Shuomao's blade. I never imagined I'd see it again. I still remember how he wielded this simple weapon with such mastery, cutting through even the most formidable opponents."
"You knew my father?" Kakashi asked curiously.
Mifune nodded. "Yes. When I was younger, I dueled Shuomao. He defeated me, of course. But from that battle, a friendship was forged. It has been nearly a decade now… I can't believe his son has grown so much."
Kakashi remained silent, absorbing the information. He hadn't expected his father to have had such a connection with Mifune, but it made sense—both were renowned swordsmen.
Mifune suddenly asked, "How much of your father's skill have you inherited?"
Kakashi hesitated. "To be honest, I am nowhere near my father's level."
"Show me," Mifune said.
Kakashi nodded. Mifune was a master of the blade, a samurai who once held his own against the legendary Hanzo of the Salamander. If anyone could provide insight into his technique, it was him.
Stepping into the courtyard, Kakashi began executing the Hatake sword style amidst the falling cherry blossoms. His movements were precise, but his form lacked something—something essential.
Minutes later, he completed the sequence and looked toward Mifune expectantly.
Mifune pondered before speaking. "Kakashi, you have mastered the form of Shuomao's swordsmanship, but not its essence. For someone your age, your progress is commendable. However, remember—
A sword must have conviction. Without conviction, a blade is dull."
Kakashi contemplated Mifune's words. "What do you mean by the conviction of the sword?"
Mifune smiled. "You will understand once you know why you wield a blade. Your talent is exceptional, and if you refine your belief in your sword, I have no doubt you will surpass your father."
Kakashi bowed. "Thank you for your guidance, Mr. Mifune."
"There is no need to thank me. Shuomao once helped me—consider this my way of repaying a small part of that debt." Mifune's gaze drifted back to the broken White Fang blade. "Speaking of which, do you plan to restore this sword?"
"Yes. That's why I came to the Land of Craftsmen—to forge a blade that suits me."
"Perfect. I know an excellent blacksmith here. He crafted both my katana and Kurosawa. I will introduce you to him—you will not be disappointed."
Kakashi's eyes brightened. "Really? That would be a great help. Thank you."
Navigating the Land of Craftsmen alone would have been a challenge. With Mifune's assistance, Kakashi had a much better chance of finding a swordsmith worthy of forging his new weapon.