Chapter 6: Mother

Year 27 Konoha Calendar

Over the next four months, Raito diligently incorporates nature transformation training for each chakra nature, followed by ninjutsu training. To develop his wind release, he practices the renowned leaf-cutting exercise. For his lightning release, he exposes himself to a 5mA electric shock. And to hone his earth release, he meditates atop the sand, molding it into clay cubes.

According to his father's guidance, to attain mastery in wind release, Raito must cut through a waterfall. For earth release mastery, he must swiftly transform sand into clay cubes or balls with a diameter of three meters. As for lightning release, his mother sets the goal of enduring a 50mA electric jolt, which, in modern times, could potentially cause cardiac arrest. No big deal. Achieving mastery in nature transformation would enable him to perform A-rank ninjutsu of that specific nature, but he understands that mastering them won't come easily. It would practically make him a Jonin-level shinobi.

To familiarize himself with elemental ninjutsu, Raito trains in various E-rank techniques taught to him by his parents. For lightning release, he studies Raiton: Lightning Clone Technique, Raiton: Flickering Light Technique, and Raiton: Static String Technique. In the realm of wind release, he focuses on Futon: Wind Clone, Futon: Wind Levitation Technique, and Futon: Projectile Control Technique. For earth release, he delves into Doton: Earth Clone, Doton: Trapping, and Doton: Stone Bracers.

Raito carefully selects these techniques for specific reasons. Firstly, he aims to acclimate himself quickly to the different nature releases. Secondly, his earth release techniques will serve a supportive and protective purpose, emphasizing trapping and the creation of stone bracers. Lastly, his wind levitation and projectile control techniques will teach him how to manipulate inanimate objects from a distance. He hopes this preparation will aid him in future applications of magnet release. Interestingly, his nature transformation training not only enhances his chakra control but also accelerates his progress in the mystical palm technique and Rasengan training.

…

Inside the training hall, Raito knelt down and calmly observed his mother, who seemed lost in her thoughts. They were about to commence their regular lightning nature training, but Chibi appeared preoccupied.

"You're smart, so I assume you've gathered that I'm not originally from Suna. In fact, I hailed from the Land of Lightning, specifically Kumogakure," Chibi revealed.

"I had my suspicions, but it doesn't change anything for me, Mother. Knowing this won't alter the way I feel about you," Raito reassured her with a gentle smile.

Chibi's face brightened at his response. "Actually, it goes deeper than that. I come from the Raikage clan of Kumo and am the younger cousin of the current Raikage."

Raito was taken aback by the revelation. "How did they allow you to live in Suna and marry Father?"

"They didn't. Your father and I met during one of our joint missions, and we fell in love. I made the decision to follow your father here eventually. Your grandfather and your granduncle, the first Kazekage, worked tirelessly to convince Kumo to allow me to leave. I'm not privy to the exact details, as your father didn't want me burdened with that knowledge, but knowing my cousin, it came at a significant cost," Chibi shared, a tinge of sadness in her voice.

This revelation left Raito with a sense of realization. 

"Which brings us to your status. As the son of the Kazekage, though not guaranteed, you could contend for the position of the third Kazekage. In Kumogakure, you would be the nephew of the Raikage, making you a potential successor after his sons."

"Did they disown you from the family?" Raito inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"Technically, they didn't, which means you are still considered part of the Raikage clan," Chibi responded with a warm smile. "However, my intention isn't for you to vie for that position. I simply want you to understand who I am and who you truly are." Raito nodded, accepting her words.

"As a member of the Raikage family, I have an extensive repertoire of Lightning Jutsu. I expect you to uphold the honor of our lineage in this aspect," Chibi added, her tone carrying a hint of warning.

Raito's nerves kicked in. 'I mustn't take her training lightly.'

...

Raito had no difficulty learning his elemental ninjutsu. On average, it took him about five attempts to successfully manipulate a jutsu. This astonished his parents, as most Academy students would require one or two weeks to grasp a single E-rank ninjutsu. Due to his remarkable chakra control at such a young age, he quickly grasped the essence of each jutsu.

E-rank jutsu typically involved three to seven hand seals. The Bunshin no Jutsu, for instance, required three hand seals, while the Kawarimi no Jutsu utilized five. Raito, with his heightened chakra control and attunement, realized that each hand seal produced a consistent chakra manipulation pattern within his body. As his proficiency in the jutsu increased, he discovered that he could manipulate the chakra without physically performing the hand seals. Empowered by this revelation, he insisted on achieving one-seal proficiency in each jutsu before progressing to the next phase of his training. With this accelerated pace, he aimed to master C-rank ninjutsu by the end of his first year in the Academy and B-rank ninjutsu by his second year. Though he had not communicated this to his parents, his plan was to graduate early from the Academy and become a Genin at the age of six.

…