The Hidden Uchiha Gamer

Weak Chakra Bear has been killed

+700 EXP, 1 Bear Pelt, 1 Elemental Essence, 1 Bears Claw

9/60 left

Pulling my Kunai from the lifeless bear, I wiped the blade clean on its fur, the motion precise and deliberate. The Sharpness of an actual Kunai had made dispatching this creature far easier than my first encounter. Where their tough hide once resisted my attacks, the new edge cut through it like paper before scissors. Even their durability wasn't as much of an obstacle now, especially with Raiton: Rai Kunai to briefly stun them, leaving them vulnerable to follow-up strikes after the first.

The bears were still formidable in their raw strength, but their predictability and the 2 Kunai had shifted the odds in my favour. My encounters with them had been ended swiftly, yet I remained vigilant. 

Sliding the Kunai back into my pocket, I leapt onto a sturdy branch above, moving with quiet precision. My objective was clear: locate the third hidden grotto. Well all of them, but I need the 5th first.

As I leapt from branch to branch, the forest around me seemed to grow denser, the air thicker with an unnatural stillness. Each step carried me deeper into the heart of this enchanted place, where the light filtering through the canopy above was dimmer, its glow faint and eerie. The bioluminescent bark of the towering trees cast shifting patterns across the forest floor, like a living map that promised both guidance and misdirection. The faint trickling sound of water somewhere nearby mingled with the rustle of unseen creatures, a constant reminder that danger could be lurking at every turn.

It was then that I stumbled upon something strange. My path brought me to a sudden clearing, where the forest seemed to part in reverence. At the centre of the space stood a structure—a shrine, its dark stone weathered with age yet untouched by time's decay. The craftsmanship was intricate, each column carved with twisting vines alongside a strange Yōkai like creature that reminded me of the Kitsune from Japanese legend I read about.

The creature was depicted as a humanlike entity with 6 fox tails forming behind it, similar to the Kyūbi with 3 less tails, the entity was depicted with long waist length hair, with bangs framing the side of their face, and what was a moderately sized bust. The thing was a woman, no doubt about that, and had a serene look to her, on one column, an angered look on the other, and a bemused smile on the third.

Strange glyphs, faintly glowing with an emerald hue, covered its surface, forming a pattern that drew my eye toward the sealed stone doors at its centre. The air here felt heavier, charged with a latent energy that made me consider what it was. I approached cautiously, tracing a finger over the glyphs, but no amount of force or some Chakra Manipulation seemed to stir the doors. Even when I shaped my Chakra to fit into the doors to try and open them. Whatever lay beyond, it would not reveal itself so easily.

My thoughts were distracted by a translucent screen that appeared.

New Skill: Shape Transformation gained

Shape Transformation LVL 1/10: An advanced form of Chakra Control that involves controlling the form, movement, and potency of one's chakra, determining the size, range, and purpose of a technique. This is crucial to master when one plans to make their own Jutsu. Chakra used is dependent on Shape and detail on it. Grants 3% extra CC every level.

Shape Transformation has Levelled up to LVL 3.

Whilst I was trying to shape my Chakra to push open the doors, I did not realise that I would get this skill from something so basic.

I stepped back, letting out a quiet breath as I surveyed the shrine. It was no coincidence this was here. The detail in its design, the careful placement of each glyph—it all hinted at something more. But for now, the doors remained shut, a mystery locked away. My gaze lingered for a moment longer before I turned back toward the forest. 

It must be tied into the 2nd Bonus quest, which meant whatever it was would only be opened when I had completed my first objective on that Quest.

The deeper I ventured, the more the forest seemed to test my resolve. The twisting roots beneath the moss-covered ground threatened to trip me up, while the faint glow of Mushrooms made me wonder when I would have to dodge something. Twice, I was made to avoid triggering the toxic spores of a Sekiri mushroom, the faint hiss serving as a warning to keep my distance. Those Mushrooms were gathered. Still, as I consumed a Chakra Pill, my eyes scanned every detail around me, searching for something that might lead me to the main goal.

Finally I caught sight of it. Tucked beneath the sprawling roots of a massive, bioluminescent tree was the entrance to another grotto. The roots formed a natural archway, framing the opening in a way that was almost deliberate. This one was better hidden than the first, its entrance camouflaged by hanging moss and vines that swayed gently in the breeze. It also seemed that those vines weren't alive, but there was something more pressing then that guarding it.

Perched silently on a sturdy branch, I peered down at the entrance to the grotto. The faint glow from the bioluminescent tree roots illuminated the area just enough to reveal three Weak Chakra Bears prowling near the opening. Their massive frames moved in coordinated patterns, a surprising display of teamwork for creatures I had only encountered in isolation.

This was new.

The first bear sniffed the air, its deep blue eyes scanning the forest with unsettling intelligence. Its claws raked the moss-covered ground as it circled the entrance. The second bear lingered by a patch of mushrooms, occasionally glancing toward the grotto, as if guarding it. The third—a slightly larger one—stood a few paces back, its head swivelling slowly, watching the area like a sentry.

So they're not just wandering aimlessly. These ones are guarding something.

I crouched low on the branch, assessing the situation. Engaging all three at once would be risky. While I'd improved since my first encounter with a Chakra Bear, their raw strength and durability made them dangerous in groups. A head-on approach would only get me killed.

Splitting them up would be ideal. If I could isolate one or two, it would make things significantly easier. The larger bear in the back seemed to be the leader—its movements more deliberate as if it was leading the other 2. Taking it out first could scatter the others, but doing so without drawing attention would require precision, if I was planning on such an approach.

My hands went through 5 Hand Seals; Snake → Monkey → Boar → Horse → Tiger. Earlier I had trained Katon: Gokyaku more realising that it was incredibly helpful to me if I could get it's Level up to a point I could use it with more efficiency, removing a Hand Seal or 2. And it wasn't wasted, I used it on the times I found Weak Chakra Rabbits and the Weak Chakra Bears, ambushed by me using it. I only managed to remove one Hand Seal at LVL 5, but that was fine.

"Katon: Gokyaku no Jutsu."

A giant ball of flames exited my mouth, the scorching ball rushed forwards as soon as it exited my mouth, crashing in between all 3, affecting them all in a blaze of glory. The fireball exploded as it died down, revealing heavily scorched bodies of the bears, 1 that had taken the brunt of the ambushed attack laid dead on the floor, its body smoking as the smell of charred meat filled my nostrils.

The other 2 were confused, but angered, their movements looking around, for where the ambush had come from. Unfortunately, I dropped down on top of one directly, kicking it down to the floor, then using it as a jumping pad to leap up and high into the air in an aerodynamic way. 

Mid air, I pulled out 2 Low grade Shuriken, "Futon: Kaze Shuriken," enhancing them with wind chakra. I threw them into the head of the other bear who wasn't on the forested ground. I then landed directly on the ground as the leader fell dead from my Shuriken, pulling out my standard Kunai to finish my last target off.

Its claw sparked with electricity trying to get up. Right there were 3 types of these bears, one had a flame spit, one had a water spit, and the 3rd had this electrified claw, not that it mattered much as my Kunai entered its head with a quick stab, pushing into it with slight effort. 

3 Weak Chakra Bears killed.

+2100 EXP, 2 Bear Pelts, 2 Bear Claws

6/60 enemies left

Pulling my kunai from the lifeless bear, I wiped the blade clean on its fur with the same precise and deliberate motion as before. The faint metallic scent of blood mixed with the acrid smell of charred flesh, a combination I was becoming disturbingly accustomed to.

With the entrance to the grotto now unguarded, I stepped forward, pushing past the swaying vines that framed the opening. Their texture brushed against my skin, rough and fibrous, yet strangely cool to the touch. The bioluminescent glow of the tree roots outside cast faint light into the cavern, but it quickly faded as I descended further.

Bonus 2 Requirement Updated: 3/5 Grottos Found

The notification hovered in my peripheral vision, but I dismissed it with a wave of my hand. My focus was on the space ahead, and the potential rewards hidden within.

The grotto was larger than I expected, its high ceilings and smooth, natural walls giving it the air of a sacred chamber. Unlike the previous grottos, which felt more like hidden storage caches, this one bore a sense of purpose. It was an armoury—a repository for tools and knowledge.

At the far end of the room, three storage units stood side by side, their surfaces carved with intricate patterns. Each bore a unique image etched into its stone face:

A pill, its shape stylized with radiant lines emanating outward, symbolizing vitality and restoration.

• A scroll, its unfurled length engraved with Hiragana.

• A shuriken, its sharp edges glinting as if to hint at the tools of a shinobi's trade.

It was immediately clear what each container held, their depictions leaving little to the imagination.

I approached. my steps echoing faintly in the quiet chamber. The air here was heavy, almost reverent, as if the room itself acknowledged its contents. My fingers brushed against the metal opening the pill storage. 

There was a lot in there, a lot more than I expected, enough to bolster mine by double and a bit.

5 Basic Chakra and Health Pills, 15 Chakra Pills, and 14 Health Pills. 

After placing the items into my inventory, I moved to the second unit, the storage door sliding open to reveal something I didn't expect to see here, nestled within. There were 3 of them actually.

Why is there a Chakra Induction Paper, randomly here? I think to myself, finding it weirdly strange that there would just be 3 pieces of the paper inside. Not like I didn't need one, thus I put 2 in my inventory.

One would be for Shiina to use later on in my training, the other was just because the paper was valuable.

The 3rd rested between my middle and index fingers as I stepped back. I'd much rather know my affinities now then wait on it, thus I readied myself to use it. Knowing I had Fire, didn't matter, I knew I had 2 more and I'd rather know now, then wait.

The faint glow of bioluminescence flickered along the grotto walls as I stood near the unit, just a bit away from it, the Chakra Induction Paper resting lightly between my fingers. Its texture was smooth yet firm, pulsing faintly, almost as if it was alive, awaiting the touch of my chakra.

I took a steady breath, focusing my mind. Chakra Manipulation was like second nature to me now, but this was something more. It held a much different weight for it would truly confirm what I was working with. What Jutsu's ideas in my mind, this would decide which of them would I create and what would be lost, in the banks of my memory.

First, the centre of the paper ignited, a flickering orange flame devouring a portion in seconds. The warmth was brief but unmistakable. Fire, I thought, unsurprised. The Uchiha blood running through my veins made this an inevitability and the fact I had its Perk made this all the clearer. My attention was on flame as it consumed part of the paper, the edges split with a sudden surgical precision, leaving two halves fluttering delicately in my hand. Wind, a rather versatile affinity, one that complemented Fire well. 

As I took the reaction in, the remaining fragments shimmered faintly, darkening as moisture seeped through the fibres. Droplets formed on my fingertips, and the paper became damp, its surface glistening under the faint light.

Water.

Fire, Wind, and Water.

That was unexpected. Water was Fire's natural weakness as Fire was Wind's. Water was rather defensive, which complimented my Fire, as it was offensive, and my Wind was both, being a defensive and offensive element.

The paper crumbled into ash and damp flecks, its purpose fulfilled.

A translucent screen materialized before me, the text a stark contrast against the dim grotto:

Perks: Water Affinity + Wind Affinity gained

Wind Affinity: Your chakra flows with the cutting precision and relentless force of the wind. This natural attunement to the Futon element makes your Jutsu razor-sharp and devastatingly swift. +50% damage dealt with Futon Jutsu, makes it easier to create and learn Futon Jutsu.

Water Affinity: Your chakra harmonizes with the fluid and adaptive nature of water. This connection to the Suiton element empowers your techniques with unparalleled versatility and strength. +50% damage dealt with Suiton Jutsu, makes it easier to create and learn Suiton Jutsu.

It was sudden, a faint chuckle escaping my lips without me realising it until the sound filled my ears. These affinities truly reflected my own personal styles. The versatility they offered wasn't just a boon—it was a weapon.

I brushed the remnants of the paper from my fingers, a spark of determination igniting within me. The forest suddenly felt quieter, as though it too understood the significance of this moment.

"Shiina," I muttered, the name slipping past my lips as my thoughts drifted to her. A rare warmth flickered in my chest as I thought back, I'll need to guide her through this, too. I'll teach her a few Jutsu, myself. She deserves to know that much. 

With that, sorted something else happened, as if the storage unit recognised what had happened, it began to glow, the characters glowing faintly, pulsing with a strange Fuinjutsu Matrix, I recognised that 3 characters shimmered more then the others. Fire, Wind, Water, was it reacting to my affinities? No, it definitely was, but how was it reacting to what the paper did? That was the question I asked myself as I looked as a hidden compartment opened up, holding 3 actual Jutsu Scrolls.

1 Jutsu for every Affinity I held. I realised it when I read them all.

New skills gained.

Futon: Kazzekiri LVL 1/50: Harnesses your Chakra through a weapon to manipulate an air source or creating a new one you shape it into sharp, slicing blades of wind. The blades are launched with precision sweeping across the battlefield, cutting through most materials with ease. A versatile wind-based jutsu, it is deadly when combined with other elements or weapons.

Hand Seals: Tiger → Rabbit → Dog → Ram → Dragon

Costs: 200 per blade dealing 150 damage per blade + the Damage of your weapon

Suiton: Mizu Bakuha LVL 1/50: By moulding water chakra, you compress moisture from the atmosphere using your own chakra to create a dense, powerful water projectile that is shot at the target through a thrust of your palm.

Hand Seals: Tiger → Ox → Dog

Costs: 300 Chakra for 250 Damage

Katon: Hono Kosen LVL 1/50: Channelling Fire Chakra to your palms, you launch a concentrated narrow intense beam of flames directly from them into a focused ray, enabling you to strike a target with deadly accuracy. The beam is fast, traveling rapidly across the battlefield.

Hand Seals: Tiger → Snake → Rabbit → Horse → Dragon → Dog

Costs: 350 Chakra dealing 325 Damage with 100% chance of Burn.

I was out of harm's way for now thus I felt I had no reason to not learn them now.

All of them happened to be rather powerful as well.

I approached the last one, and found that it too, contained more than just Shuriken and Kunai, there was proper Senbon there, and vials of poison. I took the poison first, checking it. It said nothing about the type.

"Inventory," thus I placed it in my inventory, I could read its description now.

X5 Small Vials of Weak Paralyzing Poison: A delicate glass vial containing a faintly glowing, pale green liquid that swirls slowly when disturbed. This poison is crafted using diluted extracts from naturally toxic plants and fungi, making it effective for incapacitating small creatures or slowing down larger opponents. When applied to weapons, notably Senbon, it coats the surface with a sticky, translucent layer of venom that can induce minor paralysis upon contact with an opponent's bloodstream. Inflicts Paralysis for 1 minute, reducing the target's speed by 30%, time can be lessened via resistance to Poison. 

I looked at the description, and suddenly had a dangerous thought. If I injected myself with this, developing a poison resistance skill should be possible rather easily, as well. The effects aren't even that bad, either.

I recounted a memory of my time back in that place.

The sterile whiteness stretched endlessly, an oppressive void that stripped away any sense of individuality. Every surface gleamed with an artificial light that never dimmed, creating a perpetual day devoid of warmth or comfort. The air was cold, still, and unwelcoming, just like the people who watched us from behind the tinted white glass above us. 

I sat on the cold, pristine floor of the testing chamber, the sterile air thick with an antiseptic smell. The faint hum of fluorescent lights buzzed above me, filling the silence like a static lullaby. Around me, only nine other children remained—nine faces that had once been 100, then 20 from this year. 

The voice crackled through the speaker above. "Today's task: a live demonstration of survival instinct. The stimulant has been introduced to your bloodstream. You have ten minutes before your motor functions begin to fail. Antidotes are located at the far end of the room."

A single table stood across the expanse of the room, its surface barren save for a line of small vials filled with a faintly glowing liquid. The antidote. Ten vials for ten children.

The air in the room grew tense. I could see it all. The minute shifts in posture, the trembling hands. Some of the children immediately broke formation, sprinting toward the antidotes. Others hesitated, their fear anchoring them in place.

"Only ten minutes," the voice repeated coldly.

I hadn't moved, waiting for the others to move, so I had a clear path forwards.

One boy, tall and broad-shouldered, shoved another out of the way as he dashed forward, his footsteps echoing in the vast emptiness. The smaller child cried out, stumbling to the floor.

"Stop fighting!" a girl snapped, her voice trembling. "We'll all make it if we just—"

She didn't finish her sentence. The tall boy reached the table first, grabbing a vial and downing it in one gulp. His panicked breathing slowed as he turned back toward the group, triumphant.

I watched the Chaos as it unfolded. 

Another boy, the smallest save for her, hesitated too long, clutching his chest as his legs buckled beneath him. He gasped for air, his eyes wide with terror. 

A girl, tears streaming down her face, staggered forward, pleading with the others to share the antidote. Her cries fell on deaf ears as another child shoved past her, desperate to claim their own vial.

I stepped forward, with 2 down, and 2 minutes having been used up, I calmly strode over. The antidotes were dwindling, the children growing more frantic. Yet there was no need to run.

By the time I reached the table, 5 children had fallen behind by rushing, 4 were there, already having drunk a vial. I reached out, taking one for myself, and downing it easily. The bitterness didn't matter.

I stared at the table, 10 vials laid there, yet only 5 would live because of their desperation.

Emotions clouded their judgments, slowed their decisions. Desperation, Fear, anger, sorrow—it anchored them, chaining them to weakness. 

The girl who cried too often would hesitate when it mattered most. The boy whose anger flared uncontrollably would act recklessly. And the quiet one at the back, the one who always avoided confrontation, would crumble under pressure.

Their emotions would destroy them.

At the end of the day, people were nothing more than tools.

In this world, winning is everything. It didn't matter what one had to do to win; the sacrifices did not matter. So long as one wins, that's all that matters.

Machiavellianism: The only way to survive the White Room. That was the fundamental truth I have come to accept.

The memory faded as I closed my Inventory with a wave of my hand, having placed all the Shuriken, Senbon, and Kunai within it as the thoughts played in my mind.

That event had only happened once, in that place. It wasn't enough for my body to develop proper poison resistance naturally, and thus, a skill related to it never carried over.

Leaning against the bark wall, I collected my thoughts.

Darwinism underscored every aspect of the White Room's design. The strong triumphed, while the weak were culled. It was nature's most primal law, stripped of the illusions of morality and fairness that society clung to. Survival was not a right; it was earned through strength, adaptability, and cunning.

The experiment itself was proof of that truth. Those who faltered under pressure, who hesitated or succumbed to their fear, were consumed by the system. Their failure was not just their end—it was validation of the system's purpose. It was evolution in its most brutal form, a relentless refinement of those deemed worthy to move forward.

I had not survived because I was the strongest physically, nor because I had the most resources. I survived because I adapted, because I thought ahead, and because I understood the rules before anyone else could. That was how I became The White Room's Masterpiece.

That event only ever happened once, in that place. It wasn't enough for my body to develop proper poison resistance naturally, thus a skill related to that never carried over. 

The memory lingered, a sharp reminder of the cold logic that governed that place. Emotions and sentiment had no room there—only results mattered. Winning wasn't a choice; it was a necessity. In that sterile void, weakness was tantamount to death, and survival demanded an unrelenting focus on self-preservation.

And yet…

A faint, hollow ache stirred within me as I remembered their faces—the fear in their eyes, the trembling of their hands, the desperate cries that echoed in that sterile place. I told myself that I'd done what I had to do. If I didn't, I'd have fallen behind just like them.

But when I closed my eyes, their voices still lingered.

Guilt. I recognised the emotion I felt shortly after I suppressed it. 

I couldn't be feeling that right now. 

Moving off the wall, I made my way outside and soon began leaping across the branches once more. I moved with fluid precision, each step calculated, each leap silent. The forest canopy was my path, the rustling of leaves and the soft hum of bioluminescent bark my only company.

My mind worked alongside my movements, piecing together a pattern that had eluded me before. There were five grottos in total, a deliberate design hidden within the dungeon's layout. A pentagonal shape. The placement wasn't random; it followed a structure, a methodical logic that I suspected since the 2nd but decided to wait before calling it. That confirmation had come with the last or the 3rd grotto, its position aligning with the points that were on the map inside my mind formed from an eidetic memory. Knowing this, the path to the fourth became clear.

Adjusting my trajectory, I veered toward the new destination, weaving through the dense forest. The shifting golden beams of light filtering through the canopy marked the passage of time, yet the quiet rhythm of the dungeon kept its hold.

I paused as I looked into the distance. Directly at the last pack of Weak Chakra Rabbits that I had only now, just found. 

Their small, frail bodies moved through the underbrush, searching for prey, but they had unknowingly become the hunted.

Five Weak Chakra Rabbits fell simultaneously as my five shuriken struck true, embedding themselves deep in their necks. The precision of my throws left no room for struggle, their bodies collapsing silently to the forest floor.

X5 Weak Chakra Rabbits killed.

+250 EXP, 6 Rabbits' Fur gained, 4 Rabbits' Feet gained.

4/60 enemies left.

Retrieving my shuriken, I wiped them clean on the fur of one of the fallen creatures before slipping them back into my pouch. Efficiency had become second nature to me, and the thought of wasted motion was intolerable.

I moved on, leaping from branch to branch with fluid grace, the bioluminescent glow of the trees casting shifting patterns across my path. The rhythmic rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of distant birds were my only companions as I pushed deeper into the forest.

The forest began to shift subtly as I ventured further. The air grew heavier, the bioluminescence dimmer. The dense foliage seemed almost suffocating, with vines hanging like curtains from the canopy above. It felt as though the forest itself was watching, waiting.

Ahead, a faint glimmer caught my attention—soft, blue-green light pulsing faintly like a heartbeat. The glow emanated from the roots of a massive tree, gnarled and ancient, its bark alive with intricate patterns of glowing glyphs. As I drew closer, I realized the tree concealed the entrance to the fourth grotto, its roots forming a natural barrier that shielded the opening from casual view.

Crouching on a nearby branch, I studied the area for signs of danger. The last grotto had been guarded by three Chakra Bears—this one was likely no different. My instincts proved correct as movement caught my eye.

Two Weak Chakra Bears patrolled the grotto entrance, their heavy frames lumbering through the undergrowth with practiced ease. Their deep blue eyes glowed faintly, scanning their surroundings with unsettling intelligence. Unlike their more solitary kin, these two moved in coordinated patterns, watching each other's blind spots.

I considered my approach carefully. While two bears were less of a challenge than three, engaging both at once would still be risky. But it did give me some way to experiment with a technique.

I blur through a series of Hand Seals—Tiger → Rabbit → Dog → Ram → Dragon then I swished my Kunai creating a singular, vertical blade of wind as I murmur, "Futon: Kazzekiri."

The blade rushed forwards, attacking at a blind spot on one bear. The bear fell, with one fourth of its body falling one side, the other quarter fell beside it. The thing moved before I could cut it in half fully, but it had been too late. It was dead, its bones, muscles, organs, all falling onto the floor. 

The other watched its friend die, its claw began to spark with lightning as it growled, furious at its friend's death. It stared directly at me, meeting my eyes on the branch, it rushed forward, aiming to cut the tree down so it could attack me. I leaped away from the branch with a flip, a lower Grade Kunai readied in my right hand sparking as I activated, "Raiton: Rai Kunai."

The kunai struck its flank, sending a jolt through its body and momentarily stunning it. As I fell, I readied my standard one, and slashed its vertebrae with ease.

2 Weak Chakra Bears killed

+1400 EXP, 2 Bear Pelts, 1 Bear Claw, 1 Elemental Essence, (Lightning)

2/60 left

Futon: Kazzekiri has reached LVL 2.

With the guardians defeated, the path was clear. I approached the massive roots, slipping between their gnarled forms to step into the hidden space beyond.

Bonus 2 Requirement Updated: 4/5 Grottos Found

The notification flashed briefly before fading as I surveyed the grotto. This one was larger than the previous three, its walls shimmering faintly with bioluminescent moss. At the centre of the chamber stood a single pedestal, its surface carved with intricate designs. Resting atop it was a single object—a glowing sphere of jade-green light.

I approached the pedestal, studying the sphere. Its surface seemed to ripple like liquid, yet it held its shape firmly. Reaching out, I touched it lightly, and a faint warmth spread through my fingertips.

Dungeons Sphere of Stats has been found.

CON has increased by 100, CHA has increased by 50, STR has increased by 40, DEX has increased by 50, INT has increased by 30

HP and Chakra fully restored

The sphere's glow began to dim, its radiance fading as the newfound energy flowed through me. I felt my body grow lighter, stronger, every fibre of my being infused with vitality and power. My muscles seemed more responsive, my mind sharper, and my chakra reserves brimmed with renewed energy.

It was as if I had absorbed the essence of the sphere itself, its latent power becoming a part of me. I wondered if this existed in every dungeon.

Never mind that, I needed to prepare for further dungeons later on.

Breathing in through my nose to steady myself, I stepped back from the pedestal, the faint echo of its glow still lingering in my mind. With this new strength, I felt ready to tackle whatever lay ahead. The forest outside beckoned, and the final grotto awaited.

Thus, it was time to leave.

I moved with purpose, leaping through the dense canopy. My newfound strength from the sphere made every movement more efficient, every leap carrying me further than before. The forest blurred around me, golden beams of light filtering through the thick canopy, illuminating the twisting, bioluminescent bark of the ancient trees.

The silence was deceptive here. It wasn't the calm of a tranquil forest but the quiet of a predator's domain. I knew I was being watched—by what, I couldn't tell, but the weight of unseen eyes followed me.

As I neared the location of the final grotto as per the pattern, the trees became twisted, their glowing bark pulsing faintly like veins carrying lifeblood. The ground below became uneven, jagged roots and mossy outcroppings forming natural barriers.

Finally, I reached the area, pausing on a high branch to survey the scene below. The bioluminescent glow revealed a large clearing, its centre dominated by an enormous tree whose roots fanned out like a protective cage over a dark, gaping opening—the entrance to the final grotto.

But just like the last 3 it wasn't unguarded.

Two Weak Chakra Bears, the last of their kind, prowled around the entrance, their massive forms casting long shadows against the glowing ground. One stood near the tree's base, its deep, dark brown fur streaked with reddish hues that shimmered faintly. Its glowing blue eyes scanned its surroundings with deliberate intent, a primal intelligence evident in its movements. The second bear circled the perimeter, its claws raking the ground as it sniffed the air.

However, I wasn't worried. I had no need to. 

I reached into my pouch, pulling out shuriken. Focusing my chakra, I whispered, "Futon: Kaze Shuriken." The faint swirling wind around the weapons coated them, enhancing their piercing ability.

With precise aim, I hurled the first shuriken toward the bear closest to the grotto entrance. The blade whistled through the air, embedding itself into the creature's flank with a sickening thud.

The bear roared in pain, its attention snapping to the direction of the attack. Before it could react further, I launched the second shuriken, striking its hind leg. It staggered, turning its head toward me as I dropped silently to the ground, positioning myself near the dense roots of the tree.

The second bear growled and charged toward the commotion, its claws sparking with electricity. This one had the same Lightning Claw, Raikagi technique I'd encountered before—dangerous, but also predictable.

I pulled out my standard Kunai, "Futon: Kaze Kunai," a faint sound of wind swirling came from my Kunai as I imbued it with Wind chakra. Then dashed forwards. The bear in preparation stood on 2 feet and as predictable as a boxer it aimed its first strike but it never struck, as my Kunai met its electrified claw, displacing the electrical energy, and with that, I slammed my fist into its liver. A proper liver shot

A sickening crunch was heard as my fist shot into the right side of the rib cage then as it roared out in excruciating pain, I brought my kunai through it with a quick twirling motion with that, it fell to the ground dead. I looked at the one that was behind me watching as it got up. 

So I was right, that stat increase allowed me to beat them with minimal effort now without expanding a bit more Chakra.

I dodged as it spat water out at me. This was one I encountered more commonly, though I had avoided the attack always. It fired 2 more, one aimed directly at me, another aimed in the air, although I had already finished my hand seals for Katon: Gokyaku. My goal was still to bring this up a bit more so I used it.

"Katon: Gokyaku no Jutsu."

A massive ball of flames erupted from my mouth, hurtling towards its natural weakness of water but instead of being extinguished by the water, my flames evaporated the water as soon as they met. Although the size of my fireball was affected it was still around 1.5X the size of myself. 

The weakened but still powerful fireball collided with the bear, engulfing it in a sphere of flames that scorched its skin, burning it. I watched the flames consume the bear in an infernal surge before dispersing. The flames rescinded slowly revealing the bear, turned to an ashen body on the floor.

X2 Weak Chakra Bear's killed

+1400 EXP, 2 Bear Pelt, 1 Elemental Essences (Water), 1 Bear Claw

0/60

Bonus Quest 1: Completed.

Rewards:

+100,000 EXP

Futon: Ranga Hajan Jutsu Scroll

B Ranked Jutsu Creation Scroll

You have reached LVL 50

I read the series of screens as they appeared, I waved them off as usual as I turned around. 

With the area cleared, I turned my attention to the grotto's entrance. Pushing past the massive roots, I descended into the final chamber, my heart steady as the dim light of the cavern enveloped me.

Bonus 2 Requirement Updated: 5/5 Grottos Found

Entering the chamber, I looked around. It was strange that Grotto had a concrete flooring, with checkered patterns of silver and gold dancing, the checkered flooring led to an area that could only be described as an armoury, but just weapons.

In the middle of this armoury was a stone pedestal resting inside what looked to be a Chokuto, its Tsuba having 6 crescent moons etched on its hexagonal shape. Looking at the weapon, I could tell it had not been used in centuries, its edge should be dulled, but it looked sharp, sharper than any regular Chokuto. Its blade was made out of silvery, shimmering metal that did not look like it belonged in this world.

I gripped the hilt, feeling a strange desire to take the weapon, removing it from its pedestal as a textbox appeared.

Tsuki no Chokutō Obtained

Upon removing this weapon from its pedestal the Hidden Shrine of the Yokai Kodama no Inari opens. 

Bonus 2 Objective has been revealed.

Kill the Secret Boss: Kodama no Inari

Requirements:

Find the Hidden Grottos (Completed)

Solve the Puzzle of the Hidden Shrine.

Slay the Yokai

Bonus 2 Rewards

Ring of Protection

75,000 EXP

A Unique weapon

This wasn't the Unique weapon reward, huh? Is it just something for me to use for now, then? Hmm, no, it is, I just received the weapon. Unless, it underwent an evolution later? I can't possibly deny that it was a possibility, the fact is there wasn't something that told me I had received my Unique weapon. Just the fact that the name was unique.

I looked at the weapon I held, it's otherworldly sheen making me wonder if the metal was even from this planet.

It was Unique, yet no notification told me that it was the unique weapon I was going to gain from this. 

Dismissing the notifications with a wave of my hand, I muttered, "Inventory," a faint translucent box appeared, inside other squares formed, displaying my inventory.

Inventory

Ryo: 1000

X11 Low Grade Kunai: Kunai that whilst sharp, aren't as sharp as one would expect from a Kunai. Damage is dependent on the part of the body that is hit but it is common for it to deal 10 damage at long range and 20 at close range.

X8 Kunai: Standard issue Kunai, as sharp as one would expect from Kunai. Damage is dependent on the part of the body that is hit but it is common for it to deal 100 damage at long range and 200 at close range.

X17 Low Grade Shuriken: Shuriken that whilst sharp, aren't as sharp as one would expect from a Shuriken. Damage is dependent on the part of the body that is hit but it is common for it to deal 15 damage.

X20 Shuriken: Standard issue Shuriken as sharp as one would expect from Shuriken. Damage is dependent on the part of the body that is hit but it is common for it to deal 150 damage at long range.

X20 Low Grade Senbon: The precision is off as these Senbon are made from a different, slightly heavier material. Damage is dependent on the body part, and precision, but mainly 20 damage.

X5 Senbon: The precision on these Senbon are what one expects from one made from a light alloy that allows it to move as such. Damage is dependent on the body part but it mainly deals 90 damage on more common areas.

High Grade Explosive Tag: The Highest quality of Explosive Tags one can buy, these are some of the strongest ones out there. The explosion triggered is big, tending to be a 50 metre circle from where the explosion took place at and deals around 1000 to 2000 damage depending on how close one is to the detonation of the tags, the explosion can tear off limbs too. 

Enhanced High Grade Explosive Tag: The Highest quality of Explosive Tags one can buy, these are some of the strongest ones out there. This one has been enhanced. The explosion triggered is big, tending to be a 50 metre circle from where the explosion took place at and deals around 2000 to 4000 damage depending on how close one is to the detonation of the tags, the explosion can tear off limbs too. 

Flash Bomb: A compact, metallic sphere inscribed with the kanji for "Flash," this tool is a staple for distraction and disorientation in the shinobi arsenal. Upon activation, the bomb releases an intense burst of light and a sharp, crackling noise designed to momentarily blind and deafen anyone within its effective radius. In its range of 5 metres it can Blind person for 10 seconds and deafen them, this is also highly effective against anyone who has a Dojutsu that relies on sight which is basically all of them.

X3 Chakra Imbed Ink bottle: Ink used for Fuinjutsu that is bottled. That is all.

X10 Parchment: Paper crafted from another source can be used for Fuinjutsu, though it makes Low Grade Fuin items. 

X8 Basic Chakra Pill: A basic bluish-white pill that pulses with a faint shimmer. When consumed, it dissolves instantly, releasing a cool, refreshing sensation that revitalizes the user's chakra pathways through stimulating the Chakra production process. Often used by shinobi who know they are going to be in combat for a long time, this pill provides a much-needed boost. Taking too many can result in nausea, dizziness and other negative effects as the body pays the price for the increased Chakra regeneration. Restores 500 Chakra.

X25 Chakra Pill: A bluish-white pill that shimmers. When consumed, it dissolves instantly, releasing a cool, refreshing sensation that revitalizes the user's chakra pathways through stimulating the Chakra production process. Often used by shinobi who know they are going to be in combat for a long time, this pill provides a much-needed boost. Taking too many can result in nausea, dizziness and other negative effects as the body pays the price for the increased Chakra regeneration. Restores 1500 Chakra.

X8 Basic Health Pill: A basic, reddish-white pill with a faint glow that pulses like a heartbeat under the light. When ingested, it rapidly accelerates cellular regeneration to restore vitality. Its ability to treat wounds in the field makes it a valuable tool for Shinobi who know they are going to fight long battles. The body compensates for the accelerated healing process over usage can result in including the effects of Dizziness, tiredness, and other negative effects. Restores 500 HP.

X23 Health Pill: A reddish-white pill with a faint glow that pulses like a heartbeat under the light. When ingested, it rapidly accelerates cellular regeneration to restore vitality. Its ability to treat wounds in the field makes it a valuable tool for Shinobi who know they are going to fight long battles. The body compensates for the accelerated healing process over usage can result in including the effects of Dizziness, tiredness, and other negative effects. Restores 1500 HP.

X2 Chakra Induction Paper: A unique piece of parchment crafted from a special tree grown and sustained with chakra. Infused with properties that react to the user's chakra, it reveals their elemental affinities upon being infused with the user's Chakra. A valuable tool for Chunin seeking to become Jonin.

Jutsu Creation Scroll: A rare item exclusive to the Gamer, these scrolls allow for the instant creation of unique Jutsu without the need for traditional methods. Each scroll is of a specific rank, E, D, C, B, A, and S. When used, the scroll opens to reveal a glowing template where the user can conceptualize and finalize their desired Jutsu through a series of inputs. The process is entirely seamless, producing a functional technique with no risk of failure or negative consequences. However, all Jutsu created with this method will require Hand Seals, regardless of difficulty of the technique made.

You have 1 B Rank.

X21 Rabbits Fur: This brown fur taken from Chakra Rabbits can be used to make Rabbit Leather which can be used to enhance gear and it can be sold.

X8 Rabbits Foot: This foot from rabbits can be sold for a bit of Ryo or used to enhance an Outfits deftness.

X15 Bear Pelt: A thick, resilient pelt harvested from a Weak Chakra Bear. It's durable and warm, making it a prized material for enhancing basic leathers.

X30 Bear Claw: A claw from the Weak Chakra Bear that can be used to sharpen weapons. 

X10 Elemental Essence: A concentrated core of Chakra infused with elemental properties. The essence retains traces of the being's abilities, glowing faintly with fire, wind, lightning, earth, or water, depending on the last attack of the creature. It's a rare drop and tends to be a strong crafting item.

You have 2 Fire Essence

You have 4 Water Essence

You have 4 Lightning Essence

X20 Sekiri Mushroom: A deep red fungus that exudes a faint, toxic sap capable of incapacitating small animals. Its noxious defence mechanism releases a cloud of gas that causes immense pain when disturbed, making it dangerous to harvest without preparation. Despite its hazards, it is a crucial ingredient in crafting Health Pills and antidotes

X31 Aonari Mushroom: A bioluminescent fungus with a faint blue glow that hums softly when touched. Known for its chakra-restorative properties, it is a prized ingredient in crafting Chakra Pills. Its delicate structure makes it easy to harvest but also fragile to transport without proper care.

Futon: Ranga Hajan (Tempest Fang Severance) Jutsu Scroll: A Jutsu Scroll containing the A Ranked Jutsu: Futon: Ranga Hajan. 

(Equipped) Fully Enhanced Basic Protective Fibre Shinobi outfit: This practical outfit is crafted from durable, fibres designed to provide enhanced protection without sacrificing mobility. The fabric is lightweight yet highly resilient, offering basic defence against many attacks. Its sleek, black design includes a high-collared, long-sleeved hoodie, matching trousers, and reinforced combat boots, making it ideal for Genin. Defence: Take 50% less damage, you also receive a 10% DEX bonus.

(Equipped) Tsuki no Chukoto: A masterfully crafted chokutō forged from a metal that was found inside a meteorite. The blade is sharper than steel. Its Tsuba is etched with intricate crescent moons sprawling out from all 6 edges, surrounding the otherworldly metal. The metal itself is highly sensitive to Chakra. Damage is dependent on where the blade cuts, but it is normal for the weapon to deal around 500 damage.

I looked over the Tsuki no Chokuto, then read through my entire inventory.

Everything was fine but it could be better. I looked at the various other weapons, mostly Shuriken and Senbon, all standard grade. Alongside a Sheathe with a belt.

I took the belt, and put it on, situating the sheathe on it before sheathing the Tsuki no Chokuto. I then placed all the other items into the inventory.

The thought about a potential evolution still lingered in my mind. If this was not the final unique weapon, there was a chance that this blade was merely a stepping stone—a foundation for something beyond it.

But what was that exactly? 

Who knows?

I then looked at my inventory again.

So my suspicions about the Jutsu Creation Scrolls were right. I think. I read the description, then closed my eyes. 

I could use this right now, but adding to my arsenal would only make things worse. I already had a lot of Jutsu that were fine, and I planned to master most of my current Jutsu. It would be shameful to not master the Katon: Gokyaku after all.

Uchiha blood ran through my veins, it would be disappointing if I didn't master the Jutsu our Clan was known for, even if nobody knew I was one, yet. Granted, I didn't need to, then again, it's better to have many Jutsu mastered than to have so many options, yet none mastered. That was a recipe for disaster. I felt it was better that I mastered the Jutsu I had right now.

I also was well aware that I needed to expand it too, but right now I had too many Jutsu that needed to be mastered. And there was also the Gates as well.

The glow of the Tsuki no Chokutō pulsed faintly disrupting my thoughts, the sleek weapon resting securely at my side in its sheathe. This blade would be my companion moving forward—whether it was the "Unique Weapon" or merely a prelude to something greater, only time would tell.

With my thoughts disrupted, for now, my focus shifted to the immediate goal: the Hidden Shrine of Kodama no Inari.

I ascended into the forest canopy through a Chakra enhanced jump onto the first branch, then I began leaping from branch to branch with the focus of a hunter hunting its prey. The slight beams that made it through the dense leaves illuminated my path forwards.

I dropped onto the grassy ground as the Shrine became visible with a roll.

What there are no more monsters left for me to kill, so sorry but it was just that simple. Point A to Point B.

The Hidden Shrine of Kodama no Inari stood as a masterpiece of otherworldly craftsmanship, nestled in a natural clearing framed by the towering, bioluminescent trees of the enchanted forest. Its dark, weathered stone exuded an aura of ancient wisdom, etched with intricate glyphs that pulsed faintly with an emerald hue. Each glyph was part of a sprawling, interconnected matrix, forming swirling patterns that seemed alive with latent energy.

Six towering columns supported the shrine, each carved with depictions of the same enigmatic entity: Kodama no Inari.

The first column showed her serene and regal, her glowing tails flowing like rivers of light.

The second captured her anger, her glowing eyes narrowed in fury, flames licking the edges of her form.

The third displayed her bemusement, a wry smile playing across her lips, her tails fanned out like a guardian's shield.

Each column seemed to hum faintly, resonating with the forest around it, as if the shrine itself was alive. At the shrine's centre stood an imposing stone doorway that suddenly began to open as I drew close to them. 

I stepped inside without hesitation. The air grew cooler, carrying a faint scent of ancient moss and stone, while the corridor led to a circular chamber with a second door, sealed shut by vines. At its centre was 4 four pedestals, each inscribed with an intricate riddle written in Hiragana.

I stepped closer to the first pedestal and read the riddle aloud: "From the forest's glow, a humble stalk, it hums in the quiet and strengthens the weak. What am I?"

Aonari Mushroom. The answer was simple enough—pathetic, even. The glowing fungi were abundant throughout the forest, their faint hum unmistakable. Reaching into my inventory, I retrieved one and placed it on the pedestal.

The glyphs above the pedestal flared brightly before dimming, a soft click reverberating through the shrine.

Turning to the second pedestal, I read: "A crimson shield, sharp in scent and deadly in defence, it guards the strong against their wounds. What am I?"

Sekiri Mushroom. Another obvious answer. The toxic red fungi that I'd harvested earlier were unmistakable in their description. With a flick of my hand, I placed a Sekiri Mushroom on the pedestal. The response was identical to the first—bright glyphs, a satisfying click.

The third pedestal bore a riddle that tried—and failed—to be cryptic: "Shaped for the weary, its purpose; to restore what's lost. A treasure for those in battle. What am I?"

A Basic Chakra Pill. My lips twitched slightly, almost forming a smirk at the simplicity of these riddles. Without hesitation, I withdrew a pill from my inventory and placed it on the pedestal. The glyphs reacted as before, their glow synchronized with the faint tremor beneath my feet.

Finally, I approached the fourth pedestal. "Red as blood, it gives the fallen strength to stand, their wounds to close, their life returned. What am I?"

A Basic Health Pill. Predictable. Effortless. I placed the pill on the pedestal, waiting for the now-familiar response. The glyphs flared, their energy joining with the others as the ground beneath me vibrated softly.

With all four offerings in place, the glyphs on the massive door blazed brilliantly, illuminating the entire clearing in radiant green light. The vines began to unwind, slithering away from the door like serpents retreating into the shadows.

The massive stone slabs parted slowly, the grinding sound echoing through the forest like the rumble of distant thunder. A cold, sweet wind rushed outward, carrying the faint scent of flowers and decay. Beyond the doorway lay a dark passage, its walls lined with the same glowing glyphs that decorated the shrine.

Bonus 2 updated: Solve the Puzzle of the Hidden Shrine completed.

Pathetic. I think to myself, shaking my head as I step forward. For all its grandeur and foreboding presence, the shrine's "Puzzle" was merely child's play.

The hidden chamber awaited. It was time to face the Yokai.