CHAPTER 12

The academy's training hall hummed with activity as the students prepared for their ninjutsu lesson. Aiko adjusted her position on the mat, her grey eyes focused intently on the instructor at the front of the room. Today's session would cover Clone Jutsu and Transformation Jutsu, the foundational techniques that every aspiring shinobi was expected to master before graduating.

"Pay attention, everyone," the instructor said, demonstrating a perfect clone of herself that mirrored her every movement. "The Clone Jutsu requires precise chakra control and focus. It's not about overwhelming your target but deceiving them with a realistic duplicate."

Aiko watched closely, her mind already racing as she considered the mechanics behind the technique. She glanced at her system, which flickered to life with a simple prompt:

Skill Tree Expansion: Foundational Ninjutsu Available.

The options appeared before her, each one offering a clear path forward:

Clone Jutsu: Level 1 (Unlock for 1 Skill Point)Transformation Jutsu: Level 1 (Unlock for 1 Skill Point)

She hesitated only briefly before confirming the unlock for both techniques.

When it was her turn to practice, Aiko stepped onto the mat, her movements deliberate as she formed the seals for Clone Jutsu. The system provided subtle guidance, highlighting the flow of chakra required to stabilize the technique.

"Concentrate on the image you want to project," the instructor advised. "Your chakra needs to mimic both the appearance and movement of the clone for it to be convincing."

Aiko nodded, exhaling slowly as her hands formed the seals. Her chakra flared briefly before settling, and a near-perfect clone appeared beside her.

"Not bad," the instructor said, her tone faintly approving. "Your control is impressive for a first attempt."

Aiko stepped back, her clone mimicking her movements precisely. She felt a flicker of pride, but she knew there was room for improvement.

Next was Transformation Jutsu, which required an even finer level of chakra control. Aiko stood quietly as the instructor demonstrated the technique, transforming into a replica of the Hokage.

"It's about precision," the instructor explained. "Not just appearance but voice, posture, and aura. The better your transformation, the less likely anyone will detect the ruse."

As Aiko prepared to try, her system offered an additional buff:

Active Buff: Chakra Optimization (+10%)

She formed the seals, visualizing the instructor as her target. Her chakra shifted subtly, wrapping around her like a cloak, and in seconds, she stood transformed—a perfect mirror of the instructor.

"Impressive," the instructor said, nodding. "Keep practicing, and you'll master it in no time."

As the session ended, Aiko's system offered an updated status:

Aiko Nakamura – System Status

Skills Mastered:

Clone Jutsu: Level 3

Transformation Jutsu: Level 2

Substitution Jutsu: Level 3

Silent Step: Level 4

Combat Analysis: Level 5 (MAX)

Teamwork Awareness: Level 5 (MAX)

Her progress felt tangible, and for the first time, she saw a clear path forward—not just as a student but as a shinobi in the making.