I, Konoha's Sage of Life

Chapter 17: Familiar Configurations, Root Organization?

"The Eight Gates Release Technique may harm the user's body, but opening the initial gates does not lead to instant death. As the restrictions are lifted, both chakra and physical states undergo varying levels of transformation."

"In such a state, ordinary taijutsu becomes obsolete."

Even the first activation of the Seven Heavens Breathing Method is classified as at least an A-rank forbidden technique, likely accessible only to elite Chūnin or higher.

This isn't something that needs to be rushed.

Kyoichi believed that developing taijutsu specifically tailored to the Eight Gates Release Technique was far more urgent.

Might Duy was indeed strong!

But...

His application of the Eight Gates was far too rudimentary.

If he could master the taijutsu techniques that Might Guy would later develop, it’s possible that Duy could have taken out all of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist. Perhaps even opening only seven gates would have been enough to repel them.

So...

Researching complementary taijutsu was the priority.

"That makes sense, but, Kanda-Sensei, I have no clue where to start. I wouldn't even know how to begin creating something like that," Might Duy said, scratching his head.

He could explain the Seven Heavens Breathing Method in detail because he had spent 20 years researching the Eight Gates Release Technique, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and experience along the way.

However...

The creation of taijutsu techniques was outside his area of expertise. Duy was not a naturally aggressive or combative person. Aware of his lack of talent, he had never been particularly interested in such matters.

"I have a rough idea," Kyoichi said, fully understanding the situation.

Duy simply lacked combat experience.

He had always been a Genin. Outside of the war, he rarely had opportunities for real combat or killing. His experiences were entirely different from Might Guy's.

After all, creating the Eight Gates Release Technique itself was already an incredible feat.

"Alright then!"

Duy scratched his head, still at a complete loss despite racking his brains.

Kyoichi turned his attention to Might Guy.

Duy might not understand combat well, but Guy did. Though he was still just a Genin, Guy had been through far more battles than his father.

Take techniques like the Leaf Hurricane, for example.

Guy had already mastered them far faster than Duy ever had.

"Guy, have you mastered the Eight Gates yet?"

"I’ve only managed to open three gates," Guy replied, looking slightly ashamed.

But...

Kyoichi was already impressed. To open three gates at the age of nine was no small feat.

Considering Guy’s future accomplishments, though, this was not surprising.

Kyoichi explained the concept of Primary Lotus.

"Did you understand that?"

"Got it!"

Guy’s talent for combat far surpassed his father’s.