JOURNEY OF AN ORDINARY NINJA

Chapter-16: Bond

Akira's Training: The Dance of the Crescent Moon

Akira stood in the Senju training grounds, sweat dripping from his brow as he practiced with his wooden swords. His swift, precise movements sliced through the air, his focus unwavering. Each slash and block was a testament to hours of tireless dedication. As he completed another sequence, a voice rang out, steady and approving.

"Good work, Akira. Well done," said Lady Mochizuki, his stern but encouraging kenjutsu mentor.

The Introduction of Advanced Kenjutsu

Lady Mochizuki approached, her arms crossed, observing Akira with a critical but proud eye. "It seems you've mastered the basics, Akira. Now, it's time to move on to advanced kenjutsu techniques. From today, we'll be using real swords. You've earned it."

Akira's eyes widened with excitement but quickly narrowed in determination.

"I will teach you two techniques that are emblematic of Leaf shinobi: Dance of the Crescent Moon and Secret Sword: Moonlight. These are difficult to master, and it's important not to get discouraged if progress is slow. Step by step, Akira. That is how true mastery is achieved."

Mochizuki continued, "First, we'll focus on Dance of the Crescent Moon. This technique requires the use of shadow clones. While using more clones makes the attack deadlier, for now, you can only create one. I'll give you a scroll containing the Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu, but first, let's focus on mastering this technique with your current skill."

She demonstrated the technique, her movements a blur of grace and precision. Three identical Mochizukis surrounded a wooden log in the center of the training ground. They moved swiftly, their positions alternating so fluidly it was impossible to distinguish the real one from the clones. In an instant, all three charged the log, striking simultaneously with deadly precision. The log shattered under the coordinated assault.

Turning back to Akira, she explained, "This technique's key lies in deception. The clones must move with such synchronization that the target cannot distinguish the original from the duplicates. You must blend into the confusion, then strike with overwhelming force. Now, Akira, your turn."

The Struggle to Master the Basics

Akira attempted the technique, creating a single shadow clone as instructed. He and his clone surrounded the wooden log and began moving quickly. However, his movements were erratic, and the clone's chakra distribution was uneven. After the strike, the log remained unscathed.

Lady Mochizuki observed silently before pointing out the flaws. "Your chakra control is inconsistent. Your clones are visibly weaker than you, making them easier to identify. Additionally, your movements are not synchronized, which makes your attacks predictable."

Akira frowned but nodded resolutely. "I'll get better, sensei."

The Journey to Master the Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu

Mochizuki handed Akira the scroll of Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu. "You can't truly master Dance of the Crescent Moon until you improve your clone technique. Start here. It's advanced chakra control, so don't rush. Take your time."

For the next four days, Akira focused solely on mastering the Multiple Shadow Clone Jutsu. He practiced tirelessly, first with two clones, then gradually increasing the number. Early attempts often resulted in unstable clones that dissipated after a few seconds, or in Akira exhausting himself to the point of collapse.

On the third day, a breakthrough came. By carefully managing his chakra flow, he successfully created three stable clones that mirrored his movements perfectly. Overjoyed, Akira pushed himself even harder on the fourth day, creating and dispersing clones repeatedly until the technique became second nature.