The morning sun filtered softly through the windows of the Sarutobi estate, casting warm light on my desk where scrolls and training notes lay scattered. Today wasn't a mission day, but the pull to train never left me. My staff rested against the wall, humming faintly in sync with my pulse.
A soft knock interrupted my thoughts.
"Jin," my father's calm voice called from the doorway. Hiruzen stepped in, robes swaying gently, eyes sharp but warm. "May I?"
I nodded quickly, standing. "Of course, Father."
He studied me for a moment, gaze sweeping over my posture, my grip on the staff, the subtle aura of chakra I wasn't even aware I'd exuded. "Your last mission report reached me," he said quietly. "Good work. But…" His eyes softened. "You know I cannot treat you as just another Genin. You are my son. And with that comes opportunity and responsibility."
I felt my heart skip. His favor was rare, not because he was cold—but because he always expected us to earn it.
"I want to teach you something," he continued, kneeling slightly. "A jutsu, one that will help you in the missions to come. But it will require focus, patience, and understanding."
My system flickered in response: Mentor Guidance Activated – High Priority. Unlocking New Jutsu Module.
[Viewing Panel Updated]
Name: Jin SarutobiAge: 7Affiliation: Konohagakure – GeninParent: Hiruzen Sarutobi, Biwako Sarutobi
[Attributes]Ninjutsu: Beginner → Moderate (Father Guidance Bonus)Taijutsu: High – FluidGenjutsu: LowChakra: High – Moderate Control
[Body]Strength: ModerateSpeed/Agility: HighStamina: Very HighChakra Control: Moderate → High (Father Guidance Bonus)
[Abilities]Staff Resonance: Level 10 – AdvancedReflexive Combat Awareness: Level 9 → 10Chakra Flow Manipulation: Level 3 → 4
[New Jutsu Available]
Shadow Step Clone (C-Rank): Creates a temporary clone that mimics movements for short distances. Useful for reconnaissance or minor combat support.
Staff Chakra Surge (D-Rank): Infuses staff with chakra for extended range attacks.
Enhanced Reflex Awareness (Passive): Minor alert for incoming threats, improves coordination.
System Note: Training with Hiruzen Sarutobi increases jutsu learning rate. Recommended: Daily exercises with father.
We moved to the training field outside the estate. Hiruzen's presence always carried weight; even a casual stance seemed to radiate control.
"Focus on the flow," he instructed, hands extended. "Chakra is not just energy. It is rhythm, balance, intent. Your staff is an extension of your will. Let it respond, not force it."
I raised my staff, chakra flowing carefully through it. It vibrated faintly as I followed his instructions.
"Good," he said softly. "Now, Shadow Step Clone."
A small blue holographic figure flickered in front of me—my system reacting, translating the technique. I hesitated, focusing on the rhythm. With a deep exhale, I extended my chakra, guiding it outward.
The clone solidified briefly, mimicking my stance perfectly. I twirled my staff, and it mirrored every movement, striking the practice dummy ahead with precise force.
System alert: Jutsu Execution Successful. Shadow Step Clone +1 mastery. Experience +5.
Hiruzen nodded approvingly. "You've improved faster than I anticipated. But remember, even powerful techniques are useless without strategy and awareness."
The rest of the day passed in a blur of training. Hiruzen taught subtle chakra manipulation, minor taijutsu tweaks, and small hand signs that would eventually form more complex jutsu. Each exercise triggered system updates:
Chakra Control +1 → 5
Taijutsu Precision +1 → 6
Staff Resonance +1 → 11
Shadow Step Clone Mastery +1 → C-Rank Progress 40%
Mission Bonus Activated: Successfully completing all exercises grants new jutsu and enhanced combat stats.
By evening, I was exhausted but exhilarated. My staff pulsed faintly, almost like a heartbeat in rhythm with mine. The system chimed softly: Mission Completion – Daily Training. Rewards Allocated.
[New Jutsu Unlocked]
Chakra Infused Strike (D-Rank): Amplifies staff strikes with controlled chakra for increased damage and range.
Reflexive Guard (Passive): Small automatic countermeasure against low-level attacks.
I looked up at my father. "Thank you, Father. I'll make sure I use this wisely."
Hiruzen's eyes softened. "I know you will, Jin. You carry not just your skill, but your heritage. Learn wisely, fight wisely, and one day, you'll surpass even my expectations."
That night, as I lay on my futon, the system flickering softly, I realized something. My growth wasn't just about missions or jutsu—it was about understanding the rhythm of my own abilities, the flow of chakra, and the trust in my team and father.
The system chimed one last time before sleep: Daily Training Completed. Rewards Stored. Recommended: Next Field Mission – Team Coordination Focus.
I tightened my grip on my staff, smiling faintly. Soon, the world would see what Jin Sarutobi was truly capable of.