12. Path to Graduation

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For a moment, everything was still. Then, with a forceful impact, Hiroshi was overwhelmed by Kira's attack. He was sent flying across the training grounds, crashing into the far wall and losing consciousness.

The spectators stood in stunned silence, their minds struggling to comprehend what had just happened. The water that had covered the training grounds slowly receded, revealing the aftermath of the battle. Kira stood in the center, his breath coming in heavy gasps, his body trembling from the exertion.

For a moment, there was complete silence. Then, slowly, the spectators began to murmur, their voices filled with awe and admiration.

"Did you see that? It was like nothing I've ever seen before!"

"That technique… it was incredible! Kira has truly surpassed all expectations."

In the trees, the hidden Anbu operatives exchanged glances, their respect for the young warrior evident. "This kid is something else," one of them muttered. "He's going to be a force to be reckoned with."

Kira's mother and the steward rushed to Hiroshi's side, their faces filled with concern. Despite the intensity of the battle, Kira had managed to control his power enough to avoid causing serious harm to his grandfather. Hiroshi was bruised and battered, but he would recover.

Kira sheathed his katana, his mind racing with the implications of the battle. He had proven himself, not just to his grandfather, but to the entire clan. His new techniques had shown their worth, and he knew that this was only the beginning of his journey.

As the spectators continued to talk amongst themselves, Hiroshi slowly regained consciousness. He looked up at Kira, a proud smile spreading across his face. "You've done well, Kira. I'm proud of you."

Kira smiled, his heart swelling with pride. "Thank you, Grandfather. I couldn't have done it without your teachings."

Hiroshi struggled to his feet, leaning heavily on his sword. "You've surpassed all my expectations, Kira. But remember, true strength comes not just from your abilities, but from your heart. Never lose sight of who you are."

Kira nodded, his resolve strengthened by his grandfather's words. He knew that the path ahead would be filled with challenges, but he was ready to face them with determination and courage.

The training grounds slowly emptied as the spectators returned to their daily routines, their minds buzzing with the events they had witnessed. Kira's battle with his grandfather would be remembered for years to come, a testament to his skill and potential.

In the trees, the Anbu operatives remained for a moment longer, their eyes fixed on Kira. "We need to report this," one of them said. "The village needs to know about Kira Kozuki. He's going to be a great asset."

The other Anbu nodded in agreement. "Yes, but we must also ensure he remains protected. There will be those who see his potential as a threat."

With that, the Anbu operatives disappeared into the shadows, leaving Kira to ponder the path that lay ahead. He knew that his journey was far from over, but he was ready to face whatever challenges came his way. With the support of his family and the strength of his new techniques, Kira Kozuki was destined for greatness.

Kira stood in the clearing, breathing heavily. His grandfather, Hiroshi, lay on the ground, exhausted but smiling. The remnants of their intense battle hung in the air, a testament to Kira's growth and his unique abilities.

"Well done, Kira," Hiroshi said, sitting up slowly. "You've proven your strength and skill beyond any doubt. You're ready to graduate early."

Kira's eyes widened. "Really, Grandfather? Are you serious?"

Hiroshi nodded. "You've earned it. But remember, this is just the beginning. There's still much for you to learn and master."

Kira bowed deeply, gratitude and determination burning in his chest. "Thank you, Grandfather. I won't let you down."

Unbeknownst to Kira and Hiroshi, a team of Anbu had been observing the entire battle from the shadows. Their masks concealed their expressions, but they were deeply impressed by what they had witnessed. One of them, the team leader, gave a subtle nod, and they vanished, their mission complete.

In the Hokage's office, Sarutobi Hiruzen, the Sandaime Hokage, listened intently as the Anbu reported their findings. His brows furrowed in thought as he processed the information.

"The boy, Kira, used a technique he created himself," the Anbu leader reported. "He called it 'Kozuki Style: Water Breathing Technique.' So far, he has demonstrated up to eleven forms."

Hiruzen's eyes widened slightly. "Eleven forms, you say? And he created this technique on his own?"

"According to Hiroshi, the technique was developed about two years ago," the Anbu replied.

The Hokage leaned back in his chair, a look of astonishment on his face. "Two years ago... that would make Kira only six years old at the time. Is it possible for a child that young to create an S-rank kenjutsu technique?"

The Anbu remained silent, their presence a testament to their loyalty and the gravity of the situation. Hiruzen tapped his fingers on his desk, lost in thought. Kira had already captured his attention, and now, with this revelation, the young prodigy was firmly on his radar.

Meanwhile, Kira made his way to the woods, his mind buzzing with excitement and plans. He had something important to practice, something he had been eager to master ever since he laid eyes on the Rokushiki (Six Powers) Scroll.

Finding a secluded spot, Kira took out the scroll from the system, a glint of determination in his eyes. He unrolled it, focusing on the technique he had been most interested in: Geppo (Moon Step).

"This technique will help me with high ground combat," Kira muttered to himself, a grin spreading across his face. "And let's be honest, who wouldn't want to step in the air? As the future big boss behind the scenes, I need cool abilities."

He summoned three clones, each ready to assist in the intensive training that lay ahead. "Alright, let's get started," Kira instructed his clones. "We need to master Geppo."

The clones nodded, mirroring his enthusiasm and determination. Together, they began the rigorous process of practicing the Moon Step, their synchronized movements creating a symphony of effort and focus.

Kira's training was relentless. He and his clones worked tirelessly, pushing their limits as they attempted to grasp the intricacies of Geppo. The technique required precise control of chakra, using bursts of energy to propel oneself into the air and essentially walk on it.

At first, their attempts were clumsy and awkward. Kira's legs ached from the strain, and more than once, he found himself crashing back to the ground. But he refused to give up. He was driven by a burning desire to master the technique, knowing it would be a crucial asset in his arsenal.

Days turned into weeks, and Kira's progress was slow but steady. He began to understand the rhythm and balance required for Geppo, learning to time his chakra bursts with his movements. His clones were invaluable in this process, allowing him to practice multiple variations and refine his technique more efficiently.

One evening, after another long day of training, Kira stood in the clearing, panting heavily. His clones had dispersed, their chakra exhausted. He wiped the sweat from his brow, a satisfied smile on his face.

"We're getting there," he said to himself, his voice filled with determination. "Just a little more, and we'll have it."

As Kira rested, a figure emerged from the shadows of the trees. It was Hiroshi, watching his grandson with pride in his eyes. "You've been working hard, Kira," he said, stepping forward.

Kira turned, surprised but pleased to see his grandfather. "Grandfather! What are you doing here?"

Hiroshi chuckled. "I came to see how your training was going. It seems you're making good progress."

Kira nodded. "Yes, but it's tough. The technique I'm creating this time is more challenging than I expected."

Hiroshi placed a hand on Kira's shoulder. "I have no doubt you'll master it. You have the talent and the determination. Remember, even the greatest shinobi started with small steps." Hoever he was shocked that Kira made an S-rank technique and he's now making another? This kid's talent is truly terrifying!

Kira smiled, encouraged by his grandfather's words. "Thank you, Grandfather. I'll keep pushing forward."

Kira stood in the clearing, the Rokushiki scroll spread out before him. His clones were by his side, each ready to assist in the intense training that lay ahead. The technique they were focused on, Geppo, required incredible precision and control over one's chakra, allowing the user to step on the air itself.

"Alright," Kira said, determination etched on his face. "Let's get started. We need to master Geppo."

One of his clones smirked. "Sure thing, boss. Just try not to fall on your face this time."

Kira shot the clone a glare but couldn't help but smile. "Yeah, yeah. Let's do this."

Their first attempts were rough. Kira tried to propel himself into the air with bursts of chakra from his feet, but he couldn't maintain his balance. He stumbled and fell repeatedly, each failure bruising his body and ego.

"You're too tense," one clone pointed out after another crash. "Relax a bit. Feel the flow of your chakra, don't just force it."

Another clone chimed in, a teasing grin on its face. "Or you could just flap your arms like a bird. Maybe that'll help."

Kira groaned but took their advice to heart. He tried to relax, focusing on the flow of his chakra. He jumped again, trying to control the burst of energy that should keep him aloft. For a moment, it seemed to work, but then he lost his balance and tumbled to the ground.

"Better, but still not there," a clone said, offering a hand to help him up. "You're getting the hang of it, though."

"Yeah, just a few hundred more falls, and you'll be a pro," another clone added with a chuckle.

Days turned into weeks, and Kira's progress was slow but steady. He began to understand the rhythm and balance required for Geppo. His clones continued to mock and advise him, their presence both a comfort and a source of motivation.

One day, after a particularly hard fall, Kira lay on the ground, staring up at the sky. His body ached, and frustration gnawed at him.

"Hey, don't give up now," a clone said, sitting beside him. "You've come this far. Just think how cool it'll be when you can actually walk on air."

Another clone appeared, looking down at him with a grin. "Yeah, future big boss can't quit now. What kind of villain gives up after a few falls?"

Kira chuckled despite himself. "You're right. I can't quit. Let's go again."

As the weeks passed, Kira's control improved. He could maintain himself in the air for longer periods, his chakra bursts becoming more precise and controlled. The clones continued to provide feedback, mocking him less as his skill grew.

One evening, nearly a month into his training, Kira felt something click. He jumped, using a burst of chakra to propel himself upward. This time, he didn't fall. Instead, he found himself standing on an invisible platform of air.

"I did it," he whispered, a smile spreading across his face.

One of the clones whooped in excitement. "Finally! Look at you, stepping on air like it's solid ground."

Another clone shook its head in mock amazement. "About time, moron. I was starting to think you'd never get it."

Kira laughed, the sound filled with relief and triumph. He jumped again, and again, each time stepping on the air as if it were a solid surface. He moved with increasing confidence, leaping and twisting in mid-air.

"This is amazing," Kira said, his eyes shining with excitement. "We did it!"

The clones gathered around, grinning. "Yeah, we did," one said. "But don't get cocky. This is just the beginning."

Another clone nodded. "You still have a lot to learn, boss. But for now, enjoy the victory."

Kira landed gracefully on the ground, his heart pounding with exhilaration. "Thanks, guys. I couldn't have done it without you."

The clones smirked. "Of course not. You'd be lost without us."

As they dispersed, Kira felt a surge of pride and determination. He had mastered Geppo, and he was ready to continue his journey. With this new skill in his arsenal, he felt more prepared than ever for the challenges that lay ahead. The future was bright, and Kira was eager to face it.