NOVEL NEXT Chapter 13: A New Understanding
The academy training grounds buzzed with activity. Today's lesson focused on the basics of ninjutsu—something I had been eager to observe and study. While others aimed to master flashy techniques, my focus remained on control and efficiency.
Standing in line, I watched as the instructor demonstrated a simple Kawarimi no Jutsu (Substitution Technique).
"This jutsu allows you to switch places with an object nearby," the instructor explained. "It's a lifesaver when you're in danger, but it requires precise timing and chakra control."
As my turn approached, I analyzed every step: the hand signs, the flow of chakra, the mental focus required to connect with a target.
"Grant Marshall!" the instructor called.
I stepped forward, feeling the weight of every eye on me. My target was a wooden log about ten feet away. I closed my eyes and formed the hand signs slowly, deliberately.
The moment I released my chakra, a strange sensation spread through me—a pull, like being yanked out of my own body. When I opened my eyes, I was crouched behind the log.
"Good form," the instructor said with a nod. "Next!"
During lunch, I found a quiet spot near the edge of the training grounds. Pulling out a small notebook I had started carrying, I jotted down notes about the jutsu.
• Requires quick chakra release.
• Focus on nearby objects for better accuracy.
• Distance limits seem to depend on chakra reserves and control.
As I scribbled, I heard footsteps behind me. Turning, I saw Hiro, one of the more outspoken students in our class.
"Hey, Grant," he said, sitting down beside me. "What are you writing?"
"Just notes," I replied, closing the notebook.
"About the jutsu?" he guessed.
I nodded.
Hiro grinned. "You're always thinking ahead. It's like you're planning something big."
"Not really," I said, though his words made me pause. "I just want to understand things better."
Later that evening, I decided to experiment with the substitution technique on my own. Returning to the training grounds, I set up a few logs at varying distances.
"Let's see how far I can go," I muttered.
I started with the closest log, about five feet away. The substitution was smooth, almost effortless. Encouraged, I moved to the next, which was about fifteen feet away.
This time, it took more focus. The pull of the jutsu felt stronger, almost disorienting. When I opened my eyes, I was beside the log, but my legs felt weak.
"Chakra drain increases with distance," I noted aloud.
For the final test, I targeted a log twenty-five feet away. Forming the hand signs, I poured more chakra into the jutsu, feeling the strain as it activated.
When I appeared beside the log, I collapsed to one knee, breathing heavily.
"Too much," I admitted. "But now I know my limit."
Satisfied with the results, I walked back home under the fading light of the evening. My mind buzzed with thoughts of improvement, and for the first time since starting the academy, I felt like I was beginning to grasp the potential of chakra.