Aftermath
AN: Hi, T0X1N here~! I've set up a Patreo(n) page for those of you that wish to support me. This is entirely optional and thus only restricted to those magnanimous enough to support me. Here's the link:
https://www.Patreo(n).com/TOX1N
Alternatively, use the one in the novel's synopsis. If you drop by and help me out, it would mean the world to me~!
Now, with that said... Happy reading!
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After I gave my consent, the system played a jingling sound, displaying the all-too-rare shop interface once again.
『 //Shop//
Current Balance: 50 points
Available Ninjutsu/Taijutsu/Genjutsu/Fūinjutsu:
E-Rank/
D-Rank/
C-Rank/
B-Rank/
A-Rank/
S-Rank/
Above/
Please think of the rank you wish to explore to view its contents. 』
'Now show me the C-rank section.'
『 //Shop//
C-Rank:
- Puppet Technique (Kugutsu no Jutsu) 『20p』
- Demonic Illusion: False Surroundings (Magen: Kokoni Arazu no Jutsu)『25p』
- Summoning technique (Kuchiyose no Jutsu)『25p』
- Finger Carving Seal (Shikoku Fūin)『30p』
- Wind Release: Gale Palm (Fūton: Reppūshō)『30p』
- Wind Release: Great Breakthrough (Fūton: Daitoppa)『35p』
- Wind Release: Sickle Weasel Technique (Kamaitachi no Jutsu)『40p』
- Earth Release: Tearing Earth Turning Palm (Doton: Retsudo Tenshō)『45p』
Please note that for the time being, we allow only one purchase per level. 』
Oh, now we're talking.
This choice of techniques is better than expected… granted that only relevant techniques are available.
(AN: Although I've explained this before, I strongly believe that the system's intricacies need reiteration. By relevant techniques, Gaara means those that make sense for him to learn. Having a wind affinity alongside great chakra control contributes to the fact that Wind-Style, Genjutsu, and Fūinjutsu all appear in the shop. Puppetry is likewise there because of his prodigious control. Oh, and just in case, let me remind you that the system does not provide instant learning. Gaara only receives a manual after his purchase.)
As I've stated before, points are a precious asset. These techniques are completely out of reach for the current me; Would anyone teach them to Shukaku's Jinchūriki? Every investment I make must have a legitimate reason.
I have excellent physical stats and a tremendous level of chakra. Not to mention that my control is above average. I haven't had the chance to practice the Wind-Style technique I gained last time. Consider this an area that requires improvement...
The aforementioned technique shall serve as my stepping stone to master wind. Because of this, there's no need to purchase another of the same nature for now. I should try to enlarge my range of abilities; Experimenting with other natures should be best.
Although the Summoning Technique is alluring, the present me has no need for it. Since I don't own a contract with a beast clan, reverse summoning will be the only option. My strength isn't near what I want it to be before leaving the village; If I'm summoned somewhere risky, I could die.
In conclusion, the best course of action is to buy an Earth-style technique. Although I can find many uses for puppetry and sealing, I believe that this is the right choice. Puppetry shouldn't be exceptionally hard to pick up on my own... And low-level sealing is useless to me. Furthermore, Shukaku is a little cooperative. Although we're not 'friends', I'm sure he won't be as annoying anymore.
At least, I expect him to tone down his impulses; Those have been annoying lately. Taking a deep breath, I purchased the 'Tearing Earth Turning Palm' technique. The system complied and played its signature tune.
『 Thank you for shopping with the System. The shop will now close, only to be accessed when the user levels up once again. 』
『 The Manual for the desired technique has been placed in the System's memory function along with its description. Please check it. 』
Feeling pleased, I accessed the memory function and checked my new technique out.
『Eath-Release: Tearing Earth Turning Palm (C-Rank)
By placing the palm of their hand on the ground, the user of this technique breaks up and shifts the local earth's structure. The better the user's chakra control, the greater the amount of earth that can be shifted. Despite its relative simplicity, this technique is effective enough to remain a viable option in combat, especially when performed by multiple users at the same time or by a single user with vast chakra reserves.』
Great, this technique is perfect for me. Not only do I have good Chakra control, but my reserves are staggering. If I can become proficient with this technique, not only will I be able to reform battlefields but also use it to unearth needed minerals for my sand. No matter how I look at it, it's a win-win situation!
Suddenly, the Anbu from earlier spoke up, interrupting my thoughts.
"We have arrived. Gaara-Sama, please enter the shelter and do not leave until instructed to do so. I shall stay around in accordance with Kazekage-Dono's instructions."
"Understood. You may leave now."
Masking my amusement with a somber expression, I controlled my sand to form a small hand that performed a shooing motion. The Anbu started shaking in anger but vanished out of sight. Containing my laughter, I passed through the guards and entered the shelter with no problems.
This place was built right under the Kazekage's building. While reading books in my father's library, I learned that the village held three shelters in total. The Anbu from earlier dropped me off at the one reserved for those of high-status; The ones staying here were council members, those of noble families, and my clan.
"Gaara! I'm so glad that you're okay!"
Before I could even walk two steps into the shelter, a loud, girly voice garnered everyone's attention. Shifting my gaze towards its direction, I noticed Temari running towards me. Tears started to well up in her eyes as she threw herself at me.
Before she could hug me though, I sidestepped and observed as she hit the floor face-first. Although I don't resent her, Temari should recall what took place last time in the library. I prefer not to partake in such intimate physical contact anymore.
"Ouch... Oh! Sorry for getting so close..."
Remembering last time, Temari's tears only multiplied as she sat there, on the ground, sobbing. I feel bad now, oh dear. Why does she always make me feel bad? What have I done to deserve this?
"Temari... quit crying, it's embarrassing. Gaara, I heard that those bad guys captured you... How on earth did you escape? Was it thanks to Dad?"
The guy talking to me as if we were friends was none other than Kankuro. Although he still had that smug look of his, you could tell he was still a kid by the way he carried himself. Sighing, I shifted my gaze once again and spoke coolly.
"Yeah, it was thanks to our father. He distracted those guys and provided me an opportunity to slip away."
Although I could've said what happened, I'd prefer to maintain the beast-cloak a secret for now. Rasa won't choose to disclose that information either, so it's better if I remain silent myself. Again, I must stay on his good side if I want to succeed with my plans.
Kankuro looked delighted with my reply, and Temari started inspecting me to make sure I had no injuries. Although its the first time I interact with both of my siblings, they don't seem to be so bad. In the original series, they were the first ones to accept Gaara for who he was. Especially Temari, who's borderline overprotective of her kin.