The Heavy Iron Burden

Natsuki stood alone in the clearing, the weight of his katana in hand feeling heavier than usual. The early morning light filtered through the trees, casting long shadows that seemed to echo the burden of expectations he carried. As he unsheathed the sword, the metallic sound rang out, sharp and clear, much like his mother’s voice in his memories- insistent, piercing, always pushing him towards what she deemed perfection.

With a deep breath, he tried to clear his mind of the doubts that clouded it. This isn't just her weapon; it’s mine, too. My choice, my path... Yet, the thought did little to lighten the load. Each movement of the blade was a reminder of the skills he was supposed to master, of the legacy he was expected to uphold.

Natsuki positioned himself, adopting the basic stance he had adopted as a child. The steel of the blade caught the sunlight, reflecting a glare that forced him to squint. He focused on the feel of the handle in his grip, the balance of the blade, and the placement of his feet. Today, he would practice not to meet the expectations set by others, but to find his own strength within the discipline of the blade.

The member 'Natsuki Uchiha' has done the following action : Dice roll

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'Bunny Arrival' :

As Natsuki settled into his stance, he took a moment to scrutinize every aspect of his form. The morning stillness of the training area provided a perfect backdrop for such introspection. He shifted his weight slightly, feeling the ground through his soles, ensuring that his distribution of weight was balanced and his footing secure.

With his sword held forward, he critically assessed the alignment of his arms, the angle of his blade, and the readiness of his posture. He knew that any misalignment could mean the difference between a successful block or a painful strike in a real battle. His eyes narrowed, focusing on an imaginary opponent as he slowly transitioned through a series of controlled strikes.

Is my grip too tight? Am I telegraphing my intentions with unnecessary movements? Each question led to a slight adjustment, a refinement of technique honed through years of practice yet always under scrutiny, as if under his mother's watchful gaze.

Satisfied, if only momentarily, with his adjustments, Natsuki exhaled slowly. He allowed himself a brief nod of approval, acknowledging his progress. "Every day, a little stronger," he muttered to himself, resetting his stance to begin another sequence, this time with a sharper focus and a clearer mind.

The member 'Natsuki Uchiha' has done the following action : Dice roll

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'Bunny Arrival' :

In the quiet solitude of the training ground, Natsuki focused on the mechanics of drawing back his blade, a crucial precursor to any effective strike. He practiced retracting the katana in various styles, each movement fluid yet deliberate, as he explored the range of motion required for different types of attacks.

With each draw, he paid close attention to the feel of the blade sliding slightly as it changed direction, noting how the air moved around it. Too slow here... too wide there... He adjusted his grip and stance each time, seeking the optimal balance between speed and control.

He practiced the retraction smoothly, without completing the strike, focusing purely on the preparation phase. This exercise wasn’t about making contact; it was about honing the precision of his movements, ensuring that each pullback was as sharp and controlled as the strike that would follow.

By refining this aspect of his technique, Natsuki aimed to make his subsequent attacks more fluid and natural. "It’s all in the setup," he reminded himself, resetting his position to begin again, each repetition smoothing out the last imperfections in his form.

The member 'Natsuki Uchiha' has done the following action : Dice roll

---

'Bunny Arrival' :

Now confident in the preparation of his strikes, Natsuki decided it was time to follow through with full execution. He inhaled deeply, centering himself before unleashing the full potential of his blade. The air around him seemed to still as he initiated the first strike, the katana cutting through it with a satisfying hiss.

Each movement was a release of the pent-up precision he had cultivated in the previous exercises. He allowed the blade to extend fully, its tip slicing through the designated targets held in his mind's eye. The sound of the blade whipping through the air resonated through the clearing, a sharp reminder of the effectiveness of his technique.

With each subsequent strike, Natsuki increased his speed and power, pushing his limits. He observed the way his blade moved, the way it felt slicing through air and object alike. Is the recovery too slow? Am I maintaining balance? He adjusted on the fly, each cut cleaner and more precise than the last.

Natsuki's next focus was integrating footwork into his strikes, a key element in maintaining balance while delivering powerful blows. As he reset his stance, he concentrated on the placement of his feet, aware that each step forward needed to be as calculated as each swing of his katana.

With a determined exhale, he stepped forward, his leading foot planting firmly on the ground as he swung his blade downward in a smooth, controlled arc. The motion felt natural, the weight of his body shifting forward to lend additional momentum to the strike.

He repeated the process, each step and strike a fluid continuation of the last. With every forward motion, he ensured his back foot followed suit, maintaining a stable base that prevented any overextension. His movements formed a rhythmic pattern, the sound of his feet against the ground syncing with the whistle of his blade.

As he moved, Natsuki remained acutely aware of his center of balance, adjusting his posture slightly with each step to ensure stability. Control the space, control the fight, he reminded himself, feeling the ground beneath him and the air around him respond to his controlled, deliberate movements.

After refining his technique alone, Natsuki came to terms with the limitations of solitary practice. To truly test his skills and push his limits, he needed a sparring partner, one that could match his intensity and provide real-time feedback on his form and execution. Recalling the effectiveness of his previous training with a mud clone, he decided it was the perfect solution again.

Standing in the center of the clearing, he concentrated, channeling his chakra into the earth beneath him. With a series of hand seals, he summoned forth a clone from the mud, a perfect replica in stance and bearing. The clone stood opposite him, katana in hand, mirroring Natsuki’s readiness.

Facing his mud-made counterpart, Natsuki felt a surge of determination. This was more than just practice; it was a challenge against himself, a way to externalize his inner conflicts and confront them head-on. He adjusted his grip on his katana, eyeing the clone with a focused gaze. The stage was set for a duel that would not only test his physical prowess but also help him gauge the progress of his recent refinements in swordplay.

Natsuki gave a slight nod, his signal for the mud clone to begin their spar. Instantly, the clone sprang into action with an aggression that took Natsuki by surprise. The clone's blade sliced through the air with alarming speed, forcing Natsuki onto the back foot from the outset.

As he parried a particularly swift strike, Natsuki found himself marveling at the clone's capabilities. The speed and precision were a mirror of his own potential, a reflection of what he had instilled into the clone during its creation. Is this really what I can do!?

Each clash of their katanas sent a jolt through his arms, testing his endurance and skill. The realization that he was fighting against his own peak abilities both daunted and motivated him. If I can match this, I can match any opponent... With renewed resolve, Natsuki adjusted his stance, preparing to counterattack, turning his initial surprise into a strategic evaluation of every move he and his clone executed.

Spoiler:

The mud clone, relentless in its assault, launched a flurry of strikes that pushed Natsuki to his limits. Each attack was a precise, calculated move designed to mimic Natsuki's own style, yet executed with an aggression that Natsuki himself could never have mustered.

First came a high sweep aimed at Natsuki's head, which he ducked under, barely escaping the blade's edge. Quickly following was a diagonal slash from the clone's right to Natsuki's left, forcing him to step back and parry with urgency. The clone continued its assault with a rapid succession of stabs, each aimed at vital points, compelling Natsuki to deflect with rapid movements of his blade and body.

As the sequence of attacks continued, Natsuki noticed a pattern in the clone’s aggression. In its zeal to press the advantage, the clone overextended a downward slash, leaving its side momentarily unguarded. The lapse was brief, but to a trained eye like Natsuki's, it shone like a beacon. There... that's my chance! He marked the flaw in the clone's form while he continued to defend against the ongoing barrage. This opening, if exploited at the right moment, could turn the tide.

Spoiler:

Natsuki's eyes narrowed, focusing on the vulnerability exposed by the clone's overextension. The brief lapse in the clone's formidable assault was all the opportunity he needed. With a deep breath to steady his resolve and a swift shift in his stance, Natsuki prepared to capitalize on the opening.

The moment felt suspended in time as he executed a perfect lunge, driving forward with a surge of energy. His blade, guided by instinct, sliced cleanly. The motion was fluid, a seamless blend of aggression and precision.

As his sword connected, it cut through the clone's defense with startling ease. The impact was solid, the resistance of the mud clone giving way under the force of his well-aimed strike. The clone's form wavered at the impact site, the cohesion of its mud composition disrupted by the precision cut.

Got it! Natsuki thought triumphantly, watching as the clone staggered back, struggling to maintain its form. The satisfaction of executing such a flawless technique fueled his confidence, a stark reminder of his capabilities when he trusted in his own skills and training.

Spoiler:

As the mud clone momentarily lost its form, collapsing into a nondescript pile of earthy slop, Natsuki watched with a mixture of satisfaction and anticipation. The mud settled briefly on the ground, still, before it began to stir once again. Slowly, the mud coalesced, rising and reshaping into the familiar form of the clone.

With the clone fully reformed, it approached Natsuki, its movements mirroring the Uchiha’s own sense of vigor. In a display of camaraderie, the clone raised its hand for a high-five with an excited smile. Natsuki couldn’t help but laugh as he met the clone's muddy palm with his own. The slap echoed lightly through the clearing, marking the success of their sparring session.

“Good match!” Natsuki exclaimed, the grin on his face broad and genuine. The practice had sharpened his skills and honed his patience, allowing him to seize the right moment to strike effectively. Celebrating this small victory with his clone, Natsuki felt a renewed sense of enthusiasm and readiness to tackle whatever challenges lay ahead.

Natsuki, feeling bolstered by the success of his sparring session, decided to weave ninjutsu into his combat repertoire. Standing firmly in the center of the clearing, he called upon his familiarity with the earth, ready to summon one of his more powerful techniques. He quickly wove through the required hand seals with practiced ease, each movement sharp and precise. As he completed the sequence, he channeled his chakra deep into the earth beneath him.

With a rumbling growl that vibrated through the air, the ground before Natsuki cracked open, and from it, a massive dragon of earth and stone emerged. The creature towered above him, its form rugged and imposing, crafted from the very soil of the training ground. Natsuki directed the dragon with a confident flick of his wrist, watching as it snaked around the clearing, its movements a blend of primal power and graceful precision.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon - B rank - 5 CP (Earth Affinity)

CP: 111/260
Mud Clone CP: 130

In the clearing, the air was thick with tension and anticipation. Natsuki watched as his mud clone mirrored his actions, understanding the unspoken challenge. With a nod, the clone began its own sequence of hand seals, the earth trembling in response to its chakra.

From opposite ends of the clearing, two dragons of earth and stone rose, their massive forms casting long shadows as they swayed overhead. Each creature, one commanded by Natsuki and the other by his clone, snaked through the air with a majestic, menacing grace. They faced each other, mirroring the determination of their masters.

With a final nod to each other, both Natsuki and the clone prepared to engage, their dragons rearing back, ready to clash. The scene was set for a monumental test of skill and will, a dance of titanic forces guided by the hands of earth's adept manipulators. The duel between these earthen behemoths and his clone would challenge Natsuki's control over the element.

Spoiler:

Natsuki and his mud clone charged toward each other with swords raised, their movements mirroring a dance they both knew well. As they closed the distance, their katanas met with a clang that resonated through the clearing, sparks flying from the steel. Each parry and thrust was executed with precision, the intensity of their duel matching the ferocity of the battle unfolding above them.

Simultaneously, the earth dragons they commanded lunged at each other. Like great serpents, they twisted and turned in the air, their massive forms colliding with a thunderous impact. Stone scales clashed, sending shards raining down around Natsuki and his clone. The dragons grappled fiercely, each strike a testament to the power and control of their creators.

The duel between Natsuki and the clone was a blur of motion, each anticipating the other's moves, their training and instincts pushing them to the limits. The clash of their swords was punctuated by the sounds of the battling dragons, creating a symphony of combat that filled the air with its intensity.

Spoiler:

In the heat of the battle, Natsuki quickly realized that neither he nor his clone was gaining the upper hand. The swords clashed with a resounding ring, and the dragons mirrored their masters, locked in a fierce struggle. Seeking to break the deadlock, Natsuki made a decisive call.

With a sharp command and a swift hand gesture, he directed his earth and stone dragon to break away from its engagement. The massive creature turned with surprising agility, its body coiling like a spring. With a powerful surge, it lunged towards the clone, catching it off guard.

The clone, absorbed in the sword fight, barely had time to react. As Natsuki's dragon collided with it, the impact was tremendous. The force of the earthen beast sent the clone sprawling to the ground, where it was swiftly overwhelmed by the weight of the charging dragon.

Under the heavy mass of stone and earth, the clone's form disintegrated, its mud composition unable to withstand the pressure. It collapsed into a puddle of mud, splattering beneath the dragon's form. Natsuki watched as his dragon reared back, its task completed, leaving behind the remains of the clone spread across the dirt. A mix of triumph and relief washed over Natsuki, knowing he had strategically ended the stalemate.

Spoiler:

As Natsuki stood observing the remnants of the mud clone, it began to stir once again, gathering itself from the scattered mud on the ground. With astonishing resilience, the clone reformed, standing upright as if renewed by its brief defeat. No sooner had it regained its posture than its Earth and Stone dragon, previously thought subdued, surged with a renewed burst of energy.

The clone’s dragon tore across the battlefield with ferocious speed, crashing into Natsuki’s dragon with a thunderous impact. The collision was monumental, sending shards of earth and stone scattering across the clearing. Both dragons crumbled under the force, their forms breaking apart and merging back into the earth from whence they came.

As the dust settled and the last of the debris fell to the ground, Natsuki and the clone locked eyes. For a moment, there was a silent acknowledgment of the ferocity and determination each had displayed. Then, almost simultaneously, they began to laugh. The sound echoed through the clearing, a release of tension and a celebration of their shared strength and skill. They laughed at the absurdity and the thrill of their battle, standing amidst the wreckage of their mighty earth dragons, both impressed and amused by the intensity of their training session.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon Upkeep - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Affinity)

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone]
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon Upkeep - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Affinity)
Reforming - 3 CP

CP: 99/260
Mud Clone CP: 113

Natsuki shifted his stance, adopting a new form that was markedly different from his usual fluid movements. This style was firm and rigid, each step and swing deliberate and grounded. To an onlooker, it might appear somewhat inelegant or clunky, but there was a hidden sophistication in its simplicity.

As he moved, Natsuki felt a continuous flow of his chakra seeping into the ground through his feet, connecting him to the earth in a profound way. This connection not only stabilized him but also enhanced his dexterity, sharpening his responses and the control over his sword and any earth-based techniques he might employ.

With each practice strike, he focused on positioning his blade to redirect incoming forces rather than outright stopping them. This method allowed him to conserve energy and use his opponent's strength against them. The ground beneath his feet felt like an extension of his being, providing a firm foundation that made him incredibly difficult to move unless he wished to move.

This style required a precise balance and a deep connection with the earth, making him feel almost immovable. He practiced deflecting imaginary strikes, feeling how the style favored strategic positioning and smart energy management over brute force.

[Learned Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 98/260
Mud Clone CP: 113

Natsuki, rooted deeply in his new stance, began to advance with heavy, deliberate steps that resembled an unrefined dance. Each movement, though seemingly inelegant, was charged with purpose, his connection to the earth palpable with every footfall. As he moved, he balanced the complexity of weaving hand seals with one hand.

With a final, forceful step, Natsuki completed his seals. Responding instantly to his command, the ground before him rumbled ominously. From the disturbed earth, another massive Earth and Stone Dragon emerged, its form coalescing from the soil and rock with a thunderous roar. The dragon, towering and formidable, snaked up and arced over the clearing, casting a large shadow as it poised, ready for Natsuki's command.

The summoning of the dragon in such a fluid motion, synchronized with his dance-like movements, showcased a new level of mastery over his techniques. This powerful display of earth manipulation not only affirmed his connection to the element but also his ability to integrate ninjutsu seamlessly into his kenjutsu practice.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon - B rank - 5 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 92/260
Mud Clone CP: 113

Continuing his methodical advance, Natsuki maintained the heavy, deliberate steps of his new style, each movement resonating with the earth beneath him. Beside him, the massive Earth and Stone Dragon mirrored his movements, its colossal form weaving through the air with a grace that belied its rugged appearance.

With each step, Natsuki swung his sword in sharp, controlled arcs, the blade slicing through the air with precision. Parallel to his actions, the dragon lunged forward, its massive head striking at invisible foes in the clearing. The synchronicity between Natsuki and the dragon created a formidable display of power and coordination, their combined attacks flowing seamlessly into one another.

This dance of steel and stone was more than just a physical exercise; it was a profound connection between shinobi and the very world itself.

Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon Upkeep - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 88/260
Mud Clone CP: 113

Natsuki halted his advance, planting his feet firmly on the ground as he turned to face the mud clone, which stood several meters away. In a synchronized display of defensive strategy, the massive Earth and Stone Dragon coiled around him, its rocky scales providing a formidable barrier between Natsuki and any potential threat.

The dragon then gracefully lowered its head towards the ground, its gesture clear and inviting. Natsuki acknowledged this with a nod, understanding the silent offer. With a fluid movement, he stepped onto the lowered head of the dragon, positioning himself confidently atop this earthen mount. Standing on the dragon, Natsuki felt a surge of power as the creature began to rise once more, its movements in perfect harmony with his intentions. This elevation not only provided him with a strategic advantage but also symbolized the deepening bond between him and the elemental force he commanded.

Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon Upkeep - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 84/260
Mud Clone CP: 113

As Natsuki steadied himself atop the dragon, a focused look in his eyes, he felt an instinctual command surge through him, urging the massive earthen beast forward. The dragon responded with a powerful lurch, its massive form barreling towards the Mud Clone at an imposing speed.

Anticipating the attack, the Mud Clone swiftly executed a technique, causing the ground beneath the dragon's path to shift and fall, creating a sudden, sheer shaft. The clone watched, perhaps expecting this maneuver to hinder their approach. But Natsuki only smirked in response, his confidence unshaken.

With astonishing agility, the earth and stone dragon adapted, its body raising up and climbing the newly formed earthen wall. Its massive form undulated powerfully, scales scraping against soil and stone as it ascended the obstacle with surprising grace. Overcoming the barrier, the dragon crested the top, continuing its relentless advance towards the clone. Natsuki maintained his balance effortlessly, his gaze locked on the clone, a silent challenge in his eyes. The distance closed rapidly, the anticipation of the impending confrontation palpable in the air.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon Upkeep - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone]
Earth Release: Moving Earth Core - B rank - 5 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 80/260
Mud Clone CP: 108

As Natsuki and his dragon surged over the earthen barrier, the Mud Clone, undeterred by the display of agility, began its counter-maneuver. Standing firm, the clone swiftly wove through a series of hand seals, its focus intense as it summoned its own force from the earth.

Beneath the clone, the ground trembled and split, giving rise to another massive Earth and Stone Dragon. With a roar that matched the ferocity of its creation, the dragon emerged, its form solidifying from the soil and stone at the clone’s command. Towering and formidable, the newly formed dragon reared back before lunging forward, its trajectory aimed directly at Natsuki’s approaching dragon.

The two colossal beasts, each a mirror of earthen might and shinobi will, moved with a purpose driven by their masters' intents. Natsuki watched from his vantage point atop his dragon, his expression a mix of determination and respect for the dragon technique. The air between the two dragons crackled with tension as they closed the distance, each second bringing them closer to an inevitable clash.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon Upkeep - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone]
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon - B rank - 5 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 76/260
Mud Clone CP: 103

As the clone's earth and stone dragon lunged forward, its massive form casting a looming shadow across the battlefield, Natsuki's dragon reacted with a surprising burst of speed. Unlike its counterpart, which moved with the heavy, deliberate force typical of such massive constructs, Natsuki’s dragon weaved across the clearing with speed.

With a grace that seemed almost out of place in such a massive creature, Natsuki’s dragon dodged the oncoming attack effortlessly. Sides-swerving the rival dragon’s charge, it to avoid the collision entirely. The distance between Natsuki and the mud clone diminished rapidly as his dragon continued its swift, unimpeded advance.

The clone, momentarily taken aback by the speed and maneuverability of Natsuki's dragon, watched as the earthen beast it had summoned missed its target and was left grappling with the momentum of its failed strike. Meanwhile, Natsuki, firmly atop his mount, prepared for the next phase of his approach, his eyes fixed on the clone with a clear strategic advantage now in his grasp.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon Upkeep - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone]
Earth Release: Earth and Stone Dragon Upkeep - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 72/260
Mud Clone CP: 100