Naruto: Maelstrom Of The Uzumaki

Chapter 42: Dodge All, I'm About to Show Off!

After a brief burst of dazzling white light, Raiden and the others slowly opened their eyes. However, due to the effects of the Third Hokage's technique earlier, Raiden noticed many illusory white spots lingering on objects. This disorienting sight gave him a mild sense of vertigo.

"It feels like I've been hit by a flash bomb."

Still uncomfortable, Raiden closed his eyes again. After a moment, he cautiously reopened them and found his vision returning to normal.

"Father, couldn't you at least warn me before pulling something like that?" Shinnosuke Sarutobi, who had been standing farther back, fared worse than Raiden. Tears streamed down his face as he rubbed his eyes furiously. Meanwhile, Namikaze Minato, who had already adjusted, stood beside Kushina, trying to comfort her.

"That was quite an impressive technique," Raiden admitted as his senses cleared.

Although this ninjutsu only required three simple hand seals and was classified as a basic C-rank technique, its practicality was undeniable. When used on an unsuspecting opponent, it could effectively block their vision, creating an ideal opportunity for a sneak attack. Even in situations requiring a quick escape, this jutsu was useful, functioning as a substitute for a smoke bomb.

"If I pair this technique with my Kagura Mind Eye, it would be easy to take the upper hand in a fight," Raiden mused.

"The only downside is its short duration. It's nothing compared to the Tenseigan's enhanced White Shock Technique."

Raiden compared the White Shock Technique to this simpler jutsu. The advanced White Shock Technique, used by those proficient in Sage arts, created an intense burst of light coupled with high-frequency vibrations. It blocked both sight and hearing and lasted much longer. Against opponents like Uchiha Itachi and Uchiha Sasuke, its effectiveness was unparalleled.

While this C-rank version lacked such overwhelming power, it was perfect for Raiden's current level.

"How about giving it a try, Raiden? I'll show you the hand seal sequence," the Third Hokage offered.

Before he could begin demonstrating, Raiden, with his characteristic confidence, clasped his hands together and swiftly formed a "si" seal. "Lightning Style: Thunder Pillar!" he declared.

"Raiden, the Thunder Pillar technique requires three seals, not one—" the Third Hokage began, but his words were cut off as an intense burst of light erupted from Raiden's hands. The brilliance surpassed that of the Hokage's earlier demonstration, accompanied by the crackling hum of electricity.

Raiden hadn't studied the technique in detail. Instead, he instinctively channeled his chakra to generate a powerful flash of light. His flashy hand seal movements were purely for dramatic effect.

"Ah! Not again!"

Shinnosuke, who had just recovered from the previous blinding light, found himself overwhelmed once more. He quickly shut his eyes to block the intense glare. Minato, having anticipated Raiden's antics, shielded Kushina by standing between her and the light.

Even Hiruzen Sarutobi, standing directly beside Raiden, was temporarily blinded.

"So, as long as I continuously inject chakra, this technique can persist indefinitely," Raiden observed, noting the rapid chakra depletion. "But it burns through chakra quickly. At my current level, I can only sustain it for about an hour."

He stopped the technique and opened his eyes, finding the Third Hokage rubbing his own, still adjusting to the brightness.

"Well, Sarutobi-sensei, I've mastered the technique. It's practical, but definitely a chakra drain."

Hiruzen nodded, his eyes still slightly squinted. "Your ninjutsu talent is truly remarkable, Raiden."

He continued, "You're right—Lightning Style jutsus are notoriously chakra-intensive. For an average ninja, using this technique four or five times would completely drain them. Timing is critical to maximize its effectiveness."

"Four to five uses?" Raiden asked, his curiosity piqued.

"Yes," the Hokage affirmed. "A lower ninja can typically manage four or five C-rank Lightning Style techniques before exhausting their chakra. Your Uzumaki lineage gives you a far greater reserve, but even then, you must use it wisely. How many times do you think you could perform this technique with your current chakra?"

Raiden feigned deep thought before replying, "Probably eight times, give or take."

Hiruzen nodded approvingly. "That's impressive, especially for a seven-year-old. Your chakra reserves are extraordinary."

Satisfied, the Third Hokage decided to teach Raiden a more advanced B-rank Lightning Style technique.

"Considering your talent, a B-rank technique should be manageable," Hiruzen said. "As for other C-rank techniques, I'll send scrolls to you later. You can study them on your own, and if you have questions, come to my office."

Hiruzen began demonstrating the sequence for "Lightning Style: Thunder Dragon," a complex and powerful ninjutsu requiring 44 hand seals.

Raiden observed intently, using his Kagura Mind Eye to perceive the sequence.

"—Lightning Style: Thunder Dragon!"

With a loud shout, the Hokage completed the seals. A massive, five-meter-long dragon of pure lightning materialized, swirling through the air before crashing into the training ground. The impact created a deafening explosion, sending shockwaves through the area.

"Such power!" Raiden thought, marveling at the technique.

However, his admiration was mixed with suspicion. "This feels oddly familiar... like a lightning version of the Water Dragon Bullet. Did he really need all 44 seals for this?"

Hiruzen turned to Raiden with a smile. "What do you think? Do you want to give it a try?"

Raiden's expression turned serious. "Sarutobi-sensei, could you demonstrate the seals again? I didn't catch all of them the first time."

Hiruzen, still in teacher mode, patiently repeated the sequence, slowing down for Raiden to observe.

As soon as the demonstration ended, Raiden confidently began forming seals. His speed rivaled that of the Hokage, leaving everyone—including Hiruzen—stunned.

"How is this possible?" Hiruzen muttered as Raiden completed the sequence with precision.

"Lightning Style: Thunder Dragon!"

Raiden's chakra surged, crackling with energy. The resulting display was chaotic but undeniably powerful. Hiruzen quickly evacuated the nearby students, anticipating the explosion.

(End of Chapter)

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