12 [Fuinjutsu (Part 1/2)]

As Sasuke strolled home, he reflected on the earlier training session.

The image of Kurenai surfaced in his mind, earnestly sharing her insights with him after she cast the previous D-Rank Genjutsu.

"You should also remember that Genjutsu can be more than just chakra; your body language and words can be used to set up or even sustain a Genjutsu."

'Is it akin to those magic tricks from my previous life?' Sasuke mused, gradually grasping more nuances of Genjutsu.

Upon arriving home, Sasuke immediately made his way to his room, a sense of purpose guiding his steps. Retrieving the ancient tome he had discovered in the library, he settled into a quiet corner. Activating his Mangekyou Sharingan, he focused intently on the book's contents, hoping to unveil hidden secrets or ancient wisdom.

As the crimson glow of his Sharingan enveloped the pages, Sasuke's anticipation grew. However, to his disappointment, nothing extraordinary manifested during this attempt at deciphering the ancient text.

"Well, it was at least worth a try," he mumbled, a subtle shrug indicating his acceptance of the outcome. Setting the book aside, he shifted his focus to more immediate needs—preparing for a well-deserved rest.

Another session of chakra refinement awaited him, a routine that had become an integral part of his nightly rituals. With a sense of calm determination, Sasuke readied himself for a moment of repose, knowing that the pursuit of greater power and knowledge would resume on the morrow.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Next day

Sasuke found himself at his academy desk, his gaze lost in a vacant stare, the banter between two young girls becoming a persistent background noise.

'This was not what I had in mind when going to sleep yesterday night.'

Sasuke's eyes began slowly losing their lustre, his thoughts drifted around in his head.

"Ino-pig, leave Sasuke-kun alone!" Sakura's voice pierced through the verbal skirmish.

"Oh, come on, Forehead-chan. You're the one following him around Sasuke like a lost puppy," Ino retorted, pressing her hand against Sakura's forehead.

"Ino!!!"

A voice cut through the tension behind Sasuke. "Tough life?"

Sasuke turned to see Shikamaru, a nonchalant expression on his face. "Yo." Shikamaru greeted with a raised hand, his other hand casually tucked into his pocket. Choji trailed behind, obliviously munching on an unidentified snack. The two settled beside Sasuke.

"What a drag..." Shikamaru sighed as he observed the ongoing dispute between the girls, casting a look of pity at Sasuke.

"It is admittedly quite annoying," Sasuke acknowledged.

Shikamaru leaned in, offering a solution. "Wanna hang out with me and Choji later?" He suggested, aiming to rescue Sasuke from the bothersome duo.

"To do what?" Sasuke inquired.

"Watching the clouds. Nothing much," Shikamaru replied.

Sasuke contemplated the proposal, recognising the lack of benefits in staying amidst the classroom chaos. After a moment of consideration, he agreed, "Sure."

Sasuke nodded. "Fine, whatever. It's better than dealing with this nonsense." He gestured toward the ongoing argument between Ino and Sakura.

Shikamaru and Choji both grinned, satisfied with Sasuke's response. The three of them continued to endure the commotion until the class was dismissed.

As they stepped out of the academy, Shikamaru led the way to a quiet spot on the academy grounds, away from the bustling students. Choji continued munching on his snacks, seemingly indifferent to the chaos left behind.

The trio found a comfortable spot on the grass. Shikamaru lay down, hands behind his head, while Choji took a seat, still focused on his snacks. Sasuke observed them for a moment, unsure of what to make of the situation.

"So, Sasuke, why are you always surrounded by those two?" Shikamaru asked, lazily staring at the sky.

Sasuke shrugged. "I wish I knew..."

"Troublesome," Shikamaru muttered, his gaze fixed on the clouds drifting lazily overhead. "Sometimes you just need a break from all that noise."

Choji nodded in agreement, swallowing a mouthful of snacks. "Cloud-watching is the best way to clear your mind."

As they lay there, the tension and annoyance from the academy seemed to dissipate. Sasuke found himself enjoying the peaceful moment. For the first time in a while, he wasn't thinking about some convoluted prophecy or training.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

After enjoying his first experience of skipping class, Sasuke soon found himself in the familiar confines of the academy library. He sat at a desk in the corner of the library with several books spread out in front of him.

Picking out one book titled 'A Beginners Guide To Fuinjutsu Mastery', opened it and began scanning its contents with his Sharingan. 

'At its essence, Fuinjutsu involves the artful manipulation of chakra using intricate seals and symbols. This book offers a comprehensive overview of the foundational principles that underpin the dynamic relationship between chakra and seals, establishing a solid foundation for the exploration of more advanced techniques...'

'...Seals constitute the foundational language of Fuinjutsu, with each symbol bearing a distinct meaning and purpose. This book will delve deep into the vast range of seals employed by Fuinjutsu practitioners, unravelling their significance and delving into the intricacies of their designs...'

Sasuke immersed himself in the profound wisdom contained within the pages, the intense gaze of his Sharingan flickering across the pages before him with keen precision. 

Hours passed unnoticed as Sasuke delved deeper into the guide, flipping through pages that unveiled the mysteries of seals and symbols. Each revelation seemed to fan the flames of his ambition, pushing him to grasp the secrets hidden within the ancient art. The library became a sanctuary for Sasuke, a realm where he could explore the limitless potential of Fuinjutsu away from the prying eyes of the academy.

With newfound knowledge seeping into his consciousness, Sasuke's mind began to formulate connections between the principles laid out in the book and their potential applications. The library, once a haven of silence, now echoed with the silent whispers of a young ninja eager to unlock the secrets of Fuinjutsu mastery. 

Sasuke closed the book, setting it down in front of him. As he shut his eyes, a new concern began to occupy his thoughts.

"My current level of chakra control, though satisfactory for now, will likely become a hindrance in the future. How can I enhance it further?" Sasuke pondered, recalling the two exercises he had previously undertaken based on his memories from the anime.

As he delved deeper into his recollections, Sasuke found himself frustrated. "Is there nothing else to aid me in refining my chakra control?" He scoured his memory, searching for any additional methods to improve his skills.

Then, in the recesses of his mind, a vivid memory materialised and began to unfold.

Two figures traversed along a road, the elder of the two possessing long, flowing white hair tied into a loose ponytail cascading down his back. Three horizontal lines, resembling war paint, marked each cheek. A crimson coat adorned with black, flame-like patterns billowed around him.

"Kid, the Ninjutsu I'm about to teach you is the 'Rasengan.' It's an A-Rank Ninjutsu, considered the pinnacle of shape transformation..." the elder man explained to a blonde child, the latter dressed in a vibrant orange outfit, walking beside him.

"Got it, pervy sage," the child responded, a bright smile anticipating the acquisition of this formidable Ninjutsu.

As the memory began to fade, Sasuke's eyes began to radiate with an intense light.

"Pinnacle of shape transformation, pinnacle of shape transformation..." Sasuke repeated the words, a realisation dawning upon him. "Yes! Why didn't I think about this before?"