Expanding Horizons

Haruto made his way through the library, his steps quick but measured. The ninja guarding the second level checked his identification before allowing him access. Haruto nodded as the shinobi waved him through, his thoughts focused on what he needed.

The second level of the library was reserved for higher-level techniques and information not accessible to regular Genin. Though he was only allowed to choose one jutsu today, he could still explore the non-ninjutsu sections, gaining deeper insights into the world. The shelves were packed with scrolls detailing tactics, village history, political alliances, and so much more.

As he scanned through various jutsu options, Haruto's mind was fixated on his long-term goals. He needed a lightning jutsu, something that would help him progress towards his personal project—Thunder Scalpel Jutsu. He'd already started working on combining his Chakra Scalpel with his limited understanding of lightning techniques, but to make it a reality, he needed more.

Haruto sighed as he pushed aside a few scrolls of lightning-based techniques. The Chidori—Kakashi's technique—wasn't here, of course. He wasn't even sure Kakashi had developed it yet. That jutsu, whenever it came into being, would be the key to refining his Thunder Scalpel. He'd need to look through his memories and see if the anime had been specific about when it appeared, but for now, he'd have to wait.

Lightning-based jutsu in the library were limited, and most of the advanced techniques were beyond his current reach. However, his gaze finally settled on one scroll that caught his attention: Lightning Release: Lightning Ball.

Haruto pulled the scroll out carefully, reading through the description. A simple but effective long-range attack, the user could generate a ball of electricity and launch it at an opponent. It wasn't flashy or overly powerful, but it was exactly what he needed. This technique would allow him to build a more rounded arsenal and, more importantly, deepen his understanding of lightning chakra.

"This will do," he muttered to himself, tucking the scroll under his arm.

Satisfied with his choice, Haruto made his way to the D-rank jutsu section. He'd had Static Charge for a while now, but it was limited to quick, short bursts of movement. Body Flicker Technique (Shunshin no Jutsu), on the other hand, would be perfect for longer-range movement. He grabbed the scroll for Body Flicker on his way out.

As he descended the stairs and left the library, Haruto's mind raced with ideas. Lightning Ball was a small step, but it was a critical one. Every bit of knowledge he gained about controlling lightning chakra would get him closer to mastering his Thunder Scalpel. It was still limited to his hand, but with time—and more lightning techniques under his belt—he could refine it, extend its range, and perhaps even mold it into the whip-like weapon he envisioned.

A grin spread across his face as he clutched the scrolls tightly. He was getting closer. One step at a time.