Chapter 16: Silent Practice

The morning sunlight streamed through the windows of the classroom, casting soft golden patterns across the wooden desks. The chatter of students settled into hushed murmurs as Iruka-sensei took his place at the front of the room. His voice, calm and steady, echoed throughout the class as he began the lesson.

"Today, we'll go over the fundamentals of Clone Jutsu once more," Iruka announced, his warm gaze sweeping over the students. "While the Clone Jutsu is considered a basic technique, mastering it requires precise chakra control. You must distribute chakra evenly and visualize the exact appearance of your clone."

Shin sat in his usual spot near the back of the room, his head bowed slightly, seemingly focused on his notes. But beneath the desk, his hands were occupied with a far different task. A faint, almost imperceptible shimmer of blue flickered between his fingers—a thin strand of chakra. He guided the thread deftly, weaving it through his fingers in an intricate dance. Forward, back, loop, tighten.

His brows furrowed in concentration as he worked. The thread wavered for a moment, but he quickly steadied it, narrowing his focus.

Chakra control. That was the key. If he wanted to achieve his goal—if he wanted to find a way to stand up to Sasuke's Fireball Jutsu—he needed to master it. No, not just master it—he needed to take it to a level far beyond what he was capable of now.

A week of working at the Tree Leaf Library had opened his eyes to the vast world of ninjutsu techniques and possibilities. He'd read countless scrolls, some only tangentially related to his training, others sparking new ideas. It was during one of those late evenings in the library, surrounded by towering shelves and dim lanterns, that inspiration had struck.

He had an idea.

It wasn't fully formed yet, and he wasn't ready to test it. But if it worked, it could be the solution he was searching for. It could be his answer to Sasuke's overwhelming technique. However, the plan hinged on one critical element—absolute precision in his chakra control. And so, every spare moment, every ounce of focus he could muster, was dedicated to that goal.

"Shin," Iruka's voice cut through his thoughts, and Shin's fingers froze. He glanced up quickly, masking his surprise. Iruka was looking at him expectantly. "Would you care to explain the importance of even chakra distribution when creating clones?"

Shin straightened, his expression composed, though his pulse quickened. "It ensures the clone's stability," he replied. "If the chakra isn't evenly distributed, the clone might appear incomplete or fade away too quickly."

Iruka nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Correct. Remember, all of you, the foundation of ninjutsu lies in understanding and controlling your chakra. Even the smallest imbalance can lead to failure."

As Iruka resumed the lecture, Shin allowed himself a small exhale of relief. Beneath the desk, the chakra thread shimmered back to life, weaving once again between his fingers.

One step at a time, he thought. I need more control. A lot more. Only then can I take the next step.

His determination burned brighter than ever.

...

Iruka stood at the front of the class, finishing his explanation about the Clone Jutsu when his gaze settled on Naruto. The blonde-haired boy had his arms crossed, a defiant look in his eyes, but Shin could see the tension in his posture. Naruto always tried to mask his frustration with bravado, but anyone paying attention could see the cracks in his facade.

"Naruto," Iruka called, making the boy flinch slightly. "The graduation exam is in only two weeks and you still can't perform the Clone Jutsu. Why don't we have someone help you this time?"

Naruto blinked, clearly taken aback. "Huh? Help me? Who?"

Iruka scanned the room before his eyes landed on Shin. "Shin, why don't you help Naruto practice? You're one of the most consistent students when it comes to chakra control."

Shin froze, the thin chakra thread between his fingers dissipating as his concentration broke. He stared at Iruka, then at Naruto, his mind racing. Help Naruto? Help him? Of all the people in this classroom, why him?

"Sensei," Shin began hesitantly, trying to keep his tone neutral, "wouldn't it be better if someone else—"

"You're perfect for this," Iruka interrupted with a kind but firm tone. "Naruto could learn a lot from you. And besides, teamwork is an important part of being a shinobi."

Shin felt a prickle of irritation. Teamwork? With him? He cast a sidelong glance at Naruto, who was grinning sheepishly, scratching the back of his head.

Naruto noticed Shin's hesitation and tried to lighten the mood. "Hey, don't worry, Shin! I won't make you look bad or anything!" He laughed awkwardly, but his voice wavered, betraying his insecurity.

Shin clenched his fists under the desk. Why should he waste his time on someone who clearly didn't take training seriously? Naruto's chakra control was abysmal, his focus scattered, and worst of all... Shin's chest tightened as a darker thought surfaced.

Why should I help him?

His gaze flickered to Naruto again, and for a moment, all Shin could see was the nine-tailed demon fox—a monster whose rampage had robbed him of his mother.

"Iruka-sensei," Shin said carefully, his voice colder than he intended. "With all due respect, I don't think I'm the right person for this."

Iruka's eyes narrowed slightly, his usual patience unwavering but firm. "And why not?"

Shin hesitated, searching for an excuse, but nothing came to mind. The weight of Iruka's gaze pressed on him, and he realized there was no way out without directly defying his teacher. Finally, he exhaled sharply and muttered, "Fine."

Iruka smiled, seemingly unaware of the storm brewing inside Shin. "Great. Naruto, Shin will help you during practice after class."

Naruto pumped his fist in the air. "Alright! Thanks, Shin! You're the best!"

Shin didn't respond, his jaw clenched tightly. As Iruka continued with the lesson, Shin stared at his desk, the faint remnants of his chakra thread flickering weakly. He could feel the resentment bubbling within him, but he forced it down.

Fine. I'll help him. But don't expect me to enjoy it.

To be continued...

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How was this chapter? Good? I hope so! Also, guys, if any of you wants to share with me some ideas for new jutsus, I am happy to hear you!

Also remember to check my original novel Hyperborea!