Chapter 163: A rasengan? (Conclusion)

Homura awakens in a sterile room, his gaze shifting from bandaged arms to the surroundings. 

HOMURA (voiceover) Well, this isn't my bedroom…though I don't remember how I got here.

A sterile scent lingered in the air, and as he adjusted to the ambient light, the realization of the familiar surroundings washed over him. A realization dawns, he's at Dr. Ueno's clinic.

The dull throb of pain accompanied his attempts to move, and a glance at his bandaged left hand brought the vivid memories of his recent escapade to the forefront.

He attempts to move, winces from pain in his left hand.

HOMURA (to C) Tch! Give me a status report.

C, an artificial intelligence, appears in holographic form of a simple but tangible circle with a simple patterns mimicking the simple patterns of what constitutes a face.

C Internal damage: ligaments, chest grazed, neck slightly scratched. Scarring likely, full recovery in two weeks.

The synthesized voice of C echoed, outlining the internal damage to ligaments in his hand, grazes on his chest and neck, and the promise of scars on his left palm and chest. Two weeks, C projected, for a complete recovery. Homura sighed, accepting the consequences of his ambitious venture into Rasengan mastery.

His recollection of the events leading to his injuries was foggy. Seeking clarity, he urged C to replay the incident. The holographic display unfolded, revealing the intricate dance of chakra and the disruptive spark that had unraveled his Rasengan. Lightning, an element he believed he had lesser control over, manifested spontaneously.

HOMURA (voiceover) So that's what happened…No wonder my head is a mess right now but….

Homura takes in the information, then shifts to recent events.

HOMURA: Proceed with an analysis report.

C projects holographic images – a Rasengan breakdown, lightning infusion.

The holographic display unfolded, revealing the intricate dance of chakra and the disruptive spark that had unraveled his Rasengan.

HOMURA: I see, so I somehow started to apply lightning to it, unconsciously?

Homura remembered a similar event happening to a character that was far more gifted than himself but for him to do the same was far from the norm. But the rasengan at the end of the day was just chakra, being forced to spin at a high rotation.

He who had a kekkei genkai had a quite strong affinity and was sometimes able to have his elemental affinity affect how he could use elemental releases even without intending to do as such.

But Homura was quite perplexed still.

HOMURA: To think, I somehow used lightning release instead of wind release instead…I thought I was better at wind release.

Although people with elemental kekkei genkai often able to use the said kekkei genkai almost unconsciously at times, it didn't especially mean they were good at using both elements individually. Like most things, it had to be learned and practiced.

Homura himself had to practice to be able to properly use wind release and he was far from being very masterful in its usage.

If it was not for his inherent perks that his body provided him with, it was unlikely that he would be able to progress as fast as he did; because he is not exactly gifted when it comes to elemental ninjutsu but seemingly more inclined towards ninjutsu that doesn't require an elemental affinity to pull.

At least, that was true for the ones he learned at the academy. Since they were much simpler and didn't require high amounts of chakra, making it possible for most to be for almost anyone to use them with a bit of training.

Though the entire claim was dubious and Homura himself was unsure where his talents to truly lied towards, he could almost do anything as long as he trained, either this was true because his uchiha blood provided him with slightly larger than normal chakra reserves or because Uchihas were said to have potent chakra inherently because they were direct descendants of the sage of six paths.

Either way coupled with the fact that he had grafted on to himself the genetic materials of many Uchiha since he was 5 muddied the waters on what the truth truly was.

But at the end of the day, people could mostly do anything as long as their bodies allowed them and they had enough chakra reserves. Having large chakra reserves always allowed one to bend the rules on how ninjutsu worked.

Homura was privy to that philosophy which was the reason for Naruto in the anime be able to do things that were thought to be impossible such as resisting his soul from being pulled by Nagato or being able to kick a truth seeking orb.

Which was also one of the reasons the reason as to why he wished to learn how to use the 8 gates when he first started his training.

But seeing Might Guy's actual training regiment, did not make this delusion seem more possible; but instead make him focus more on the things he was more acute to.

Which was knowledge he had of the world and above average chakra reserves.

However, if Homura was perplexed from the knowledge he thought he understood, he would have another surprise from C's revelation.

C: Host judgement is partially incorrect.

Homura who just heard C's words was slightly intrigued if not a tiny bit annoyed to be told he was wrong.

C: What do you mean?

He asked while thinking if he had done an error in judgement.

The holographic display unfolded, revealing the intricate dance of chakra and the disruptive spark that had unraveled his Rasengan. Lightning, an element he believed he had lesser control over, manifested spontaneously.

Homura seen the display was slightly perturbed.

Homura: That's!

In the display that properly correlated to the pattern of different chakra sources clearly showed 3 different sources. The last one was not entirely visible because of its overall nature.

C's analysis underscored the unintentional but potent infusion of lightning release, exposing Homura's latent affinity for the element. The simultaneous fusion of wind and lightning had led to the downfall of his technique.

The cause for the breaking down of the technique was not simply due to the infusion of lightning chakra but also wind which could not fuse together.

C: There's an 72 percent chance that host's natural affinity for swift release influenced within the implementation of the technique known as rasengan. The infusion of a nature release caused the system to break apart. Two elemental releases fused, causing the failure. Not advisable to pursue this path.

Homura: That could be true…,

Homura thought as he watched the moment as the technique imploded, vast gushes of wind as well as lightning were unleashed into the vicinity.

Certainly there was a merit to it, if he had been using the sharingan at that moment he could have been certain of the true nature of the events that transpired.

However as it stood it was possible outcome.

Before embarking on the journey of learning the rasengan, Homura had done some research within his memory about most key points. The fact the rasengan was considered imperfect by its creator namizake Minato, was a key point of the technique.

It was due to the fact that even the 4th Hokage himself had failed to infuse a nature release to the technique. It would be break apart or in the case of kakashi Hatake, it became the chidori after he failed to apply lightning release to it.

Naruto only managed to do so due to having a clone infusing the technique with wind release and was only able to throw it after using it in conjunction to using sage energy.

Homura had no access to either of those elements.

Though he remembered that Uzumaki Boruto was the only one able to truly infuse his affinities to the rasengan. First by mistake and the second time through training.

However Naruto was able to infuse kekkei genkais and other powers in the rasenshuriken after obtaining six path chakra.

Thus, through those examples, Homura understood it was not impossible to do the same but lamented that he could not partake in the same route.

Homura: If this hypothesis is correct…then learning the rasengan now would be a waste of time as well as dangerous. I don't think I could stop myself from subconsciously add my kekkei genkai abilities to it. Next time I could suffer some worse injuries.

Homura debated.

It was true that, if he was passively adding a fusion of chakra natures onto the rasengan without knowing, controlling it would be dangerous but potentially life threatening.

Not only that but it would more time he needed to invested onto something that might not work.

Homura, despite scoffing, contemplates the wisdom.

HOMURA: Alternatives, similar techniques? Add to it probability of me being able to learn it.

Suddenly, windows with various jutsus appear.

Homura, conceding to the practicalities, gestured for alternative options. A myriad of jutsus flickered into view—fire, lightning, water, each presenting a different path. Amidst the array, the Chidori caught his discerning eye, prompting a moment of self-reflection on his elemental affinities.

HOMURA (looking at one) Chidori? Certainly I could potentially use lightning release, that much was confirmed from that debacle but that's only because I'm able to use swift release but I can't afford to waste time learning that.

Homura debated.

His prowess lay in Swift Release, not lightning or wind releases. He may be has an affinity for learning both but that didn't mean that he was remarkably good at performing either. Attempting to master both felt like an additional burden, a detour from his primary path.

Besides, Homura felt that learning and practicing fire release jutsus along side with wind release would be more beneficial in the long run since these elements work well in conjunction.

Though as it was true that someone pressed with time and in severe need of power couldn't simply give up, Homura's attention would soon shift.

His eyes wandered to the side, catching sight of a peculiar-looking boy practicing techniques. The oddity was not just in his appearance but in the clothes that seemed to belong to another world—a world different from Homura's.

But curiously he seemed to be performing a technique similar to the rasengan, but that could not be true, apart from Jiraiya, Sasuke and Kakashi; all those who managed to learn the rasengan were direct relatives to Naruto.

It was also a reason as to why Homura did not hesitate to shift his focus from learning the rasengan, he believed that in the future by stealing some of Naruto's DNA he might be able to more easily learn the technique; thus it was possible that his efforts as of now would not be wasted.

However, the boy on display did not look like Naruto both in character and appearance. He seemed to be a much more strategic character and quirky. No resemblance almost whatsoever could be found.

"Who's that? Never seen him before. C, display all info on this character." Homura asked, pointing to the strange boy. C quickly provided an analysis, revealing that the boy and his techniques.

C explores the boy's life, revealing disparities.

HOMURA (confused) How is this our world?

The architecture, the presence of bikes—things that didn't align with Homura's reality. How could bikers exist if there were no bikes to be found in their world.

After all the boy seemed to have fought several bikers during his misadventures and whatnots. Although the architecture or even technology could be given a pass.

Since technology was all over the place in this world, and some technologies rarely leave their cities or find their way to more remote locations from its place of birth.

To villagers from small remote villages, televisions and most high to mid tech appliances may as well be not real or a myth at best.

A lot of the world was in a rural state since all the fighting has pushed technology backwards in some regards and access to it much harder.

Though what exists or may not exists was a headache to Homura. In the shinobi world everything was possible. It was not true but it was how he felt. Due to being originally from another dimension, even though it was getting harder, much harder to relate to his former world and life.

Homura was already fully integrated within his world.

Well, almost.

Homura: C, definitely cant tell people or worlds apart. If it were not for him understanding patterns, I fear the worst. To it a human is a human, regardless of shape or form.

Homura thought, but he was nonetheless interested in the boys techniques. Because, although he was not from their world he was also some kind of shinobi.

He only saw a few glimpse of moments at different point in time of the boy's life, he wasn't even sure if the boy was a boy at all or some kind of weirdly short teenager/young adult.

Nonetheless, he was interested in the boy's techniques.

Homura: C is there a similar technique to this one? Ah! But no rasengan variants are to be included within the search.

C: Understood. Here is the closest.

Homura is then shown a short scenes of Ashura, at several points in his life performing different techniques that resembled the rasengan.

Homura: He's certainly strong... maybe even stronger than Madara and Hashirama?!!!

Homura then suddenly gets out of a trance as he remembered his main objective.

Homura: What am I thinking?! C, I said to not include rasengan variants within the search…(I didn't know he could use wood release as well. If I could find a piece of his DNA, no one could get on my way. )

Homura definitely thought he could need the boost from Ashura's DNA, just like any jrpg protagonist, he was probably going to have to face a god at the end; any advantage was welcomed with open arms.

Thus, there was no way he wouldn't be impressed by a giant wooden 1000 arms giant buddah statue, displaying what seemed to be several giant rasengan on each of his thousands hands in order to create an incredible explosion.

Homura had thought little of characters that were alive during the past, except for the sage of six paths.

But he was now reevaluating his mistake.

Ashura was strong.

He now seemed like a better version of Naruto and Hashirama put together, not only he had similar powers to both of his reincarnations; but he was given 6 path chakra from the sage and his DNA was half of his.

Meaning he wasn't just a human with some mutations that belonged to the Ootsutuki clan and was born with special chakra, no, Ashura was the real deal. Similar to how karma rewrote someone's DNA to be closer to the Ootsutsuki who granted them power.

It was overall better than just being given the sage of six paths chakra.

In fact, Homura had all but forgotten that although Ashura and his twin brother, Indra. They looked more human-like than most Ootsutsukis, but seeing their fight, one could still tell that they were still members of the Otsutsuki clan through and through.

Even if their blood was severely more diluted, at least, when compared to most named Ootsutsuki.

One could not ignore their power.

Though evidently much weaker than most full blooded Ootsutsukis or even an Ootsutsuki such as Toneri; who had been born with the sage of six paths brother's body. Or at least very close to it.

C: The jutsu on display is not the rasengan or any of its variants.

Homura: It's not? (It sure looks like it to me.)

Said a surprised Homura although he was also slightly skeptical, it looked and acted no different then a regular rasengan as far as he could see.

C: Correct, it is a pure wind release created jutsu as the information from host's memory suggest.

Homura: hm? Is that so…could the memories be wrong?

C: Negative. According to all available information it is likely to be 94 percent correct. the base technique is called the Rasengatana.

Homura: Rasengatana..? (Spiralling blade?…is this also destiny at work? Or was it filler content?…I can no longer tell most of it apart.) I see, then show me the training method and everything about it.

C: Understood

Soon several windows appeared. All displaying Ashura at different point of his life performing the technique in question.

Homura: This technique was created to cut logs of wood?

Homura inquired inside his head, he was surprised that such a powerful technique had such humble beginnings.

However, his excitement waned as C showed the simplicity of the hand seals—only two.

Homura: Tigre and dog…Two!?

Homura, a firm believer in the complexity of hand seals for jutsu mastery, felt a pang of frustration.

To be shown simply 2 hand seals was a spit to the face, to most people, it was a way to flex one's jutsu mastery.

Contrary to what most non-ninjas think, learning ninjutsu it is not actually that hard. That's why even most 5 year old can be taught ninjutsu.

Especially if one has the prescribed requirements for it in the first place. Such as having the right bloodline, chakra levels or the right affinity as well as talent.

Most hand seals ninjutsu works as an instruction set.

The right order and the right amount of chakra being perfectly molded can be used as the catalysis to perform a ninjutsu.

That's why most teacher before teaching a jutsu first start by showing the correct hand seals to their students then proceed to demonstrate the jutsu in full.

Thus, why jutsus such as the fireball technique can be used to make one spew flames from their mouth, or fireballs at different speeds and sizes.

The hand seals mostly serve as a guide towards being able to achieve a desired result. Even though the same hand seals are being formed, changes or even alterations to certain hand seals or amount can be made; it is not as rigid of a system as one might think.

Key points are, that the person in question has an idea, or rather an image of what is being asked of them and if they are able to mold their chakra properly enough to achieve what is asked of them.

It takes finesse to be able to mold chakra or even to be able to properly have the right amount of chakra to perform a specific ninjutsu.

Since, the key to most ninjutsu is to have the right amount of chakra and affinity necessary to perform it.

Intricate knowledge comes second, especially for jutsus that incredibly complicated or take time to fully understand the specificities needed.

However, such complicated jutsus usually need a formula, jutsu-shiki, vessels, some kind of altar; or even requirements that can only be met by certain persons or location.

In other words, they are techniques that depend on many factors since they cannot be performed unless the practitioner is deeply savvy of the intricacies needed and has many preparations done before hand.

Thus, are not techniques that can be readily used by most people since they require very precise requirements and the user is only one of many focal points necessary.

Fortunately, most created ninjutsu as said before only require a set amount of chakra and the correct hand seals.

After that, if the technique is performed properly or not depends on the talent of the user and overall chakra reserves or control.

Not enough and and a jutsu simply doesn't work, too much chakra and the jutsu can sometimes not work properly.

Such as why Naruto keeps failing the clone technique in the original anime. A regular non corporeal clone cannot be made to hold too much chakra, the cause is due to it not being a physical entity. But a shadow clone can.

Since with the shadow clone it is basically a perfect copy of its creator, it is impossible to create a clone with more chakra than the original. And by having larger reserves, it not only benefits the user but allows for the creation of a theoretical unlimited amounts of shadow clones.

Because it is a type of jutsu that doesn't really require a lot of intricate control but more about the cost.

A jutsu that shares similar aspects to it is the summoning jutsu. The summoning jutsu, a jutsu where the contract is the key factor needed and hand seals are simply the key towards its activation.

Not enough chakra and it doesn't work.

But depending on the chakra exchanged to perform the summoning, it is possible to summon a specific being or as many as possible.

Thus, 2 hand seals to perform the Rasengatana could not be the true amount of hand seals to perform a ninjutsu as complex as the one he was shown. Even if Homura tried to ad more chakra the likelihood that it would work was next to 0.

Homura: C, show me the process of Ashura's training and explain every single available.

C explains Ashura's wind-based Rasengatana. Though Homura heard all of it and witnessed Ashura's struggle he was still dumbfounded by the little it was actually known.

Fortunately it was not hopeless, if it was a wind based ninjutsu, it had to somewhat abide to the theory behind all wind style jutsus.

HOMURA: *sigh* this is going to be a pain in the ass…I can already tell.

Homura rebuked as he watched Ashura's training, it most likely took Ashura several years to complete since he did not seem to be making much progress.

HOMURA: …At least, I don't think that I am as bad as him when it comes to using chakra, and if I base his jutsu on my already knowledge of the rasengan…I can see it working somewhat…maybe.

Seeing that the rasengatama was overall something close to a rasengan, execpet made of wind chakra. Homura could see a ray of hope at the end of the tunnel, However, manifesting wind chakra outside the body was even harder than what the rasengan demanded, but still much easier than infusing wind chakra on an already formed rasengan.

Though it would be a challenge and likely to be much weaker than a normal rasengan, so in terms of power, he would be on the losing end. Minato's technique was overall much better but at the same time more difficult to use. So it would likely not require two hands to perform it and the fact that Homura knew some of the hand seals was somewhat of a small win.

It would take time to reverse engineer the technique but it was not impossible. Homura was a genius and had a super computer by his side.

Despite his initial annoyance, Homura saw a glimmer of hope in the potential of mastering this new technique.

It was far from he had in mind when he started to train to learn the rasengan but it is not a terrible trade off, from a bad situation new ways to achieve the same goal may become available.

Homura: C, proceed to cross reference every information on most wind style techniques and the rasengan.

Suddenly new windows of wind style techniques appeared.

Although there were a lot of wind style techniques, it was much less from what Homura had imagined.

Homura: Is that truly all? I know that wind release is among the rarest affinities but still…Urgh.

Suddenly Homura had idea among his desperation.

Homura: C, show me that boy with the green cap performing the technique and his other wind techniques…(After all if he's using a similar technique there must be some type of pattern.)

Homura hoped it was true but reality is often cruel.

Homura: What the hell is that?

Is what Homura thought as he saw the types of hand seals the boy used it, they were completely different from the ones they used in Homura's world.

Although Homura was not one to give up.

Homura: C. cross-reference those with-Uh?

But before he could inquire further, the door Homura's room opened up, soon revealing an slightly plump middle aged man in a doctor's casual outfit.

Homura: Doctor…

Homura said in a a weak voice with a slight amount of confusion etched within, he was not expecting the doctor to visit him at this hour of the day.

He thought that at this hour he would be busy with a few students or potentially one of the regular patients.

However his real thoughts lied elsewhere.

Homura(concerned): I hope I am no going get charged already…I am beyond broke. Must pretend to not be fully conscious. Need to think of a way to get out of this without paying.

Similar thoughts were being fired at high speed inside Homura's head. He and Shinji went over board trying to import puppet parts which cost them both quite a lot.

Even though Shinji's store and Homura's joint venture made money, they were both heavy spenders and too busy with their own endeavors so they were always broke. So much so that Homura has been eating rice with vegetables for the last 6 months.

The 2 idiots were more concerned about their hobbies than making money, so they lacked motivation and ambition to try to truly better their lives; or had any true business savviness to them.

Not that he was better off before that. For a non-shinobi, being sent to the hospital could break one's bank account and Homura was well aware of that; it was one of the reasons he even agreed to do part time at Ueno's clinic. To avoid ever having to go to the hospital or any clinic, too bad it didn't work as planned.

Though Homura was not only one with concern etched on his face, even the slightly jovial doctor was also slightly concerned about Homura's condition.

Thus, as the doctor entered the room, concern was etched on his face.

DR. UENO: How are you feeling, Homura-kun?

Said the doctor as he got closer to the bed Homura was currently laying on top.

HOMURA: … My body still somewhat hurts, but besides that… I'm fine, I should make a speedy recovery. Thanks for saving me.

Dr. Ueno issues warnings about the dangers of chakra exercises.

DR. UENO: Left hand ligaments were severely injured, slight trauma on your right hand's wrist, several cuts and injuries not properly healed on several muscle tissues, which include tendons, biceps, soleus, finger flexors, and several more.

Homura's face reveals regret as consequences sink in.

Dr. Ueno: It's evident that you've been dealing with injuries from past incidents and have done your best to patch them up. However, it's crucial to prioritize healing in order to prevent them from getting worse. Taking the time to properly heal will ensure long-term well-being and prevent any further deterioration. Coupled with your recent injuries, it is a miracle you're not worse. While I understand that you are still attending the academy, it is crucial to prioritize your recovery.

Homura: How long will it take, doctor.

Ueno: *sigh* In your case, it is recommended to take at least one month off to fully recuperate. However, considering your circumstances, I can offer you a minimum of three weeks for recovery without exerting unnecessary strain on your body. Additionally, given the possibility that the incident has had an impact on your heart, we will need to conduct some further tests soon for a more comprehensive evaluation. Your well-being is of utmost importance and we want to ensure a thorough examination to address any potential concerns.

HOMURA: Understood. (Well I am screwed.)

Ueno: I appreciate your recognition. Taking care of oneself is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being, though in your case your body is in overall good shape all things considered, but don't hesitate to come get yourself checked next time you injure yourself.

Homura:….

Ueno: *Sigh* but now that I understood a bit more your skills I think you are ready to move to the next phase. I was waiting that you graduate to move further but seeing how much effort you put in your training, I don't think you will be choosing the path of a medical ninja in the near future.

Homura: There's something I must do first, I don't think I can just leave it be.

Ueno:…

Homura: I apologize. Thanks for saving him.

Ueno: There's no need to apologize, I am a doctor after all. In fact, I should be the one to apologize to you.

Homura was perplexed by hearing the doctor's words.

Ueno: From examining your body I could tell how far you've taken your studies. I apologize if I didn't provide you with all the necessary information earlier. My intention was to wait until you had taken the oath of a medical ninja before delving deeper into medicine. However, it's clear to me now that your genuine interest in learning about medicine cannot be ignored. Homura-kun, tell me why do you seek knowledge about medicine?

Homura: I just want to protect my friends… I have already lost too much... They are everything that I have left in this world.

Ueno looked at Homura's face and could tell that the boy in front of him carried a darkness that he was not ready to let go. He had been aware of that darkness within Homura for a long time. Solitude, anger, despair, were emotions carried by many orphans.

But Homura although he carried that darkness within him, he also had a gentle heart. A heart that did not seek to hurt others.

That much the doctor knew due to Homura's apprehension to blood or even having to hurt animals.

The doctor knew that they shared that in common, he himself was also not willing to take his research further than most did; even if he knew he could.

Though he was unsure as to what exactly Homura was running away from, or what kind of experiences he had endured.

He had been willing to wait a bit longer until Homura had found his way, but it was clear with or without him, the boy was smart and independent enough to move forward.

All he could do was guide him, so that he does not fall for the trapping that many have in the past.

In Konohagakure, the process of taking on apprentices in specialized fields like medicine or sciences was not an opportunity that was available to just anyone. It required a level of expertise and dedication that ensured only the most deserving individuals were entrusted with such responsibility.

Although anyone was free to chose whomever they wish to teach or even teach them whatever they deemed necessary, certain knowledge was not allowed to leave the village, without having to face severe repercussions.

Not only that, but having heal Homura; Ueno has realized that Homura's body was a tad bit different from regular people. He didn't know of Homura's parentage nor he knew if the boy was also aware of it, but he understood that his DNA had certain peculiarities.

Ueno: (Perhaps this is also destiny.) I understand. Once your condition improves, we can proceed with the next stage of your training. However, I kindly request that you make a commitment to prioritize self-care and acknowledge your physical limits in order to prevent any unnecessary harm or injuries. Your well-being is paramount, and by taking these precautions, you will be able to progress further without putting yourself at risk.

Homura: Yes, thank you. And thanks for bringing me to safety.

Ueno: You're welcome but I wasn't the one who brought you to the clinic, it was Saya-kun who looked for you and brought you here.

Dr. Ueno denies credit, attributing it to Saya.

Homura who knew how strong Saya was had enough strength and more or less knew where he mostly hangs out. 

HOMURA (disguised relief) I see... (Cr*p! I'm never going to hear the end of it. )

But Homura's troubles were just starting, though he didn't know it yet.

Ueno: Oh? By the way I found this among your affairs.

Doctor Ueno said as he took out a small book from his long white coat.

Homura: (T-That's!)

Homura immediately began to sweat profusely.

DOCTOR UENO (smiling) Ah, the censored version, but perhaps a tad too early for someone of your age, Homura-kun.

Homura: (Sh*t! I am dead!)

Homura winces internally, realizing the potential implications of his choice in reading material. There's no way the snoopping queen, under the guise of being worried, Saya, didn't go through his affairs.

He had initially bought the book in order to try to see if there were some kind of hidden message but it had not. Even from the censored version, it could be described as pure filth, but not all filth was bad for a growing boy like Homura.

Also, he had to go through the trouble of having to secure a copy and buying it, his stingy heart couldn't let go…but it had also become some sort of secret pleasure. He couldn't deny or admit it.

In his long pursuit for strength and knowledge, he had forgotten that books and reading could be enjoyed. Most books and scrolls would normally put him to sleep due to how long and tedious they were.

The life of a cadet entails reading loads and loads of text that would put anyone to sleep.

Thus, his mind races.

Contemplating how much Saya might have seen or understood; though the cover didn't leave much to the imagination.

DOCTOR UENO (teasing): And since you're growing up, I've got some more books for you.

The doctor reveals three more books, each with covers hinting at provocative content. Homura is taken aback, caught between embarrassment and confusion.

DOCTOR UENO (laughing) Glad to see you expanding your horizons, my boy. this franchise opened mine to when I was your age.

The doctor leaves, and Homura is left alone with the questionable reading material. His composed demeanor falters, replaced by a mixture of embarrassment and uncertainty.

HOMURA (under his breath) T-thanks, sensei.

As the door closes, Homura turns his attention to the cover of one of the books – a seemingly innocent teenage couple. The incongruity of his ninja life and the doctor's idea of 'classics' weighs on him.

HOMURA (CONT'D) (internal monologue) A book about teenagers... should I be worried that he has these? Or that this series has lasted that long? Did I really make a mistake accepting to become that guy's disciple.

Homura's mind meanders through the absurdity of the situation. In this surreal interlude of explicit books and the doctor's bizarre recommendations, he contemplates the clash of worlds and the peculiar tastes of those who indulge in such narratives.