The Heavy Iron Burden

As Natsuki’s dragon serpentined closer to the mud clone, it lowered its head and hugged the earth as it closed the distance. The movements were fluid and precise, mirroring the sharp focus in Natsuki’s eyes. With each graceful bend and swerve, the dragon drew nearer to its target, building tension like a coiled spring.

In a sudden, decisive maneuver, the dragon pivoted sharply to the side just as they reached the clone. This swift lateral movement was the perfect setup for Natsuki’s attack. Seizing the moment, he swung his blade in a wide, sweeping arc, the motion powered by both his own and his dragon’s momentum.

His katana sliced cleanly through the clone’s midsection, the force of the strike and the precision of the blade cutting through the mud construct with stark efficiency. As his sword cleaved through, the clone’s upper half began to wobble, then lost its form entirely, collapsing into a wet, shapeless pile of mud.

Natsuki and his dragon continued their forward motion, the dragon’s head rising back up as they passed the defeated clone.

[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: 68/260
Mud Clone CP: 97

After vanquishing the mud clone, Natsuki's earth and stone dragon wheeled around, its massive form casting a long shadow as it faced the remaining dragon of the clone. For a moment, the two colossal constructs seemed to size each other up, their rocky exteriors glistening slightly under the sun, silent but for the subtle rumble of stone grinding against stone.

With an almost palpable tension hanging in the air, the dragons reared back slightly. Then, as if on an unspoken cue, they surged forward, each propelled by the will of their respective creators. The ground trembled beneath their weight as they closed the distance, their movements reflecting a primordial dance of titanic forces.

The collision course was set, the dragons' paths interlocking with inevitable consequence. As they approached, each massive head lowered, horns poised like lances, and their bodies aligned for impact. The training ground braced for the clash, the air charged with the anticipation of earth-shattering contact.

[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: 64/260
Mud Clone CP: 94

As the two titanic dragons barreled toward each other, the ground shaking with their every move, Natsuki braced for the imminent collision. With calculated precision, he steered his dragon directly into the path of the oncoming earthen beast. Just before impact, he swiftly wove through three hand seals, infusing his skin and musculature with doton chakra.

At the moment of impact, there was a monumental crash, with stone and earth erupting around them. Amid the chaos, Natsuki leapt from his disintegrating dragon. His body was now encased in rock-like plates, which covered his skin and enhanced his muscular form. Though these plates showed gaps at the joints, they were superficial; the armor was as robust there as it was across the rest of his body.

Natsuki landed on the ground with the grace and precision of a seasoned shinobi, his stony skin absorbing the shock as he skidded to a stop. The force of his landing sent small fissures through the earth beneath him, but his fortified form remained unscathed. Rising from his crouch, Natsuki surveyed the settling dust, the enhanced durability of his stonehide skin evident, making him more resistant to damage, though the appearance of his musculature beneath the stone plates was less than appealing.

[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)
Earth Release: Stonehide Skin - B rank - 5 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

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

CP: 56/260
Mud Clone CP: 91

As the dust settled from the clash of the dragons, Natsuki turned his attention to where the Mud Clone was slowly reforming. He watched as the muddy slush began to swirl and coalesce, gradually taking on a humanoid form once more. The clone's determination seemed undiminished by the recent defeat, its form solidifying with each passing second.

Natsuki, feeling the weight and protection of his stonehide skin, took a deliberate, ready stance. His feet were planted firmly on the ground, his center of gravity low, ready to leverage the strength of the earth beneath him. He gripped his sword tightly, the blade reflecting a steely resolve.

With a final surge of mud, the clone regained its full stature and wasted no time, immediately charging towards Natsuki with renewed vigor. Its movements were swift and determined, a clear intent to engage Natsuki once again in close combat. Natsuki watched it approach, his eyes sharp and focused, mentally preparing for the incoming assault. The stage was set for another intense exchange, each combatant poised and ready for the challenge ahead.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Stonehide Skin - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 52/260
Mud Clone CP: 91

As the mud clone closed the distance, it launched into a flurry of aggressive sword swings aimed directly at Natsuki. Each strike was forceful and precise, designed to overwhelm and outpace any typical defense. However, Natsuki, encased in his stone-like armor, stood firm and unyielding against the assault.

With practiced ease, Natsuki raised his sword, intercepting the clone's blade with a series of sharp, clanging blocks. Each contact between the swords sent echoes ringing through the clearing, the sound a testament to the strength and resilience of his enhanced defenses. His arms moved with a controlled, rhythmic precision, parrying the onslaught with a calm that belied the intensity of the exchange.

Despite the clone’s fervor, Natsuki’s movements were measured and efficient, conserving energy while effectively neutralizing the threat of each incoming attack. His feet shifted slightly with each block, maintaining perfect balance and readiness to counterattack. The stone plates across his skin absorbed the impact of each hit, their toughness ensuring that he remained largely unaffected by the force of the blows.

As the clone continued its aggressive barrage, Natsuki remained centered and prepared, his defense as impenetrable as the earth itself, waiting for the right moment to turn the tide of their duel.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Stonehide Skin - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

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

CP: 48/260
Mud Clone CP: 90

Natsuki, seizing the moment, extended one hand and grasped the mud clone's weapon. His fingers, encased in the stone-like plates of his skin, clamped around the blade with unyielding strength. The clone, taken aback by the sudden halt in its assault, faltered momentarily.

With the clone's weapon firmly in his grasp, Natsuki wasted no time. He swung his own sword with precision and force, the blade slicing through the air with a sharp whistle. The strike was clean and decisive, cutting the mud clone in half once again. The top half of the clone wobbled and then collapsed into a wet heap, momentarily losing its form as the bottom half stumbled backward, struggling to maintain balance.

The severed halves of the clone slowly began to lose their shape, merging back into the amorphous mud from which they were formed. Natsuki released the captured sword as it too fell as mud, watching the remains of the clone dissipate.

[Used Techniques]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Stonehide Skin - B rank - 3 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

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

CP: 44/260
Mud Clone CP: 89

As the remnants of the mud clone began to swirl and coalesce, reforming its humanoid shape, Natsuki consciously released the stone-like plates of his skin. The stone plates receded, merging back into his flesh as he returned to his natural form. He was beginning to tire.

No sooner had the clone regained its full form than it launched into another aggressive assault. The clone’s movements were swift, each strike aimed with precision, exploiting the moment Natsuki’s defenses were lowered. However, Natsuki, anticipating the clone’s renewed vigor, was prepared.

With a series of fluid movements, Natsuki parried and deflected each attack. His blade met the clone’s with a clang that resonated through the clearing, his actions a blur of motion as he skillfully managed the barrage. Despite the intensity of the assault, his expression remained focused, a testament to his growing skill and confidence. Each block and sidestep was executed with a precision that left no opening for the clone to exploit, ensuring he remained unscathed while he evaluated his next move.

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

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Reform - 3 CP

CP: 43/260
Mud Clone CP: 85

As Natsuki and the mud clone continued their dance of steel, the clearing around them fell into a deep, almost sacred silence, punctuated only by the clash of their swords. Each movement was a mirror of the other, a perfect symphony of attack and defense that left no room for error. The air seemed to hold its breath as the two combatants moved with a precision that made their battle seem almost choreographed.

The only sounds were the ringing parries and the sharp shing of blades sliding against each other, each strike met with an equally swift counterstrike. The rhythm of their combat was mesmerizing, the swords' clatter echoing through the empty space, a stark reminder of the intensity of their spar.

Natsuki's focus was absolute, his every sense attuned to the fight. He anticipated each move of the clone, his reactions sharp and deliberate. Similarly, the clone matched his pace flawlessly, its movements dictated by the same skills that Natsuki himself possessed. The stalemate was a testament to his own abilities, reflected back at him by the mud-formed adversary he faced. The duel continued, neither gaining ground nor yielding, a perfect balance of skill and will.

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

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

CP: 42/260
Mud Clone CP: 84

Natsuki and the mud clone circled each other warily, the tension between them palpable in the still air of the clearing. With sudden bursts of aggression, each launched into a series of strikes, their blades singing through the air.

Natsuki’s movements were deliberate and controlled, his feet shifting on the earth as he strafed around the clone, looking for an opening. He thrust forward, his blade slicing towards the clone, only to be met by a swift parry that redirected the attack with a clang of steel. The clone responded with a low sweep aimed at Natsuki’s legs, forcing him to leap back, barely avoiding the strike.

Regaining his footing, Natsuki countered quickly, his sword coming down in a tight arc aimed at the clone’s shoulder. But the clone was equally quick, raising its blade to block, the impact sending vibrations up Natsuki’s arms. They moved like shadows under the canopy, a dance of blades and bodies, each step and swing calculated and precise.

As they continued to exchange blows, the sound of their clashing swords was the only noise that disturbed the quiet of the training ground.

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

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

CP: 41/260
Mud Clone CP: 83

As the duel progressed, Natsuki and the mud clone shifted their tactics, each trying to outmaneuver the other in a complex ballet of swordplay. Natsuki advanced with a series of quick jabs, testing the clone’s defenses, each thrust sharper than the last, forcing the clone to continuously step back under the pressure.

The clone retaliated with a sweeping slash, aiming to catch Natsuki off-balance. But Natsuki was ready; he sidestepped the attack with graceful agility, his own blade poised for a counter. In a fluid motion, he executed a deflective parry that redirected the clone’s blade away, opening a brief but critical gap in its defense.

Seizing the opportunity, Natsuki lunged forward, his blade cutting through the air towards the clone. At the last second, the clone twisted away, narrowly escaping a decisive strike. Both combatants reset quickly, their breathing heavy but controlled, eyes locked in fierce determination.

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

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

CP: 40/260
Mud Clone CP: 82

Natsuk adopted a more aggressive approach, feinting to the left and drawing a defensive swing from the clone, then quickly pivoted to deliver a sharp, vertical strike aimed at the clone's right flank.

The clone, adapting quickly, managed to block the attack at the last moment. Its own blade moved in a tight, controlled arc, aiming to counter with a thrust towards Natsuki's midsection. Natsuki responded with a swift step back, barely out of reach, his eyes calculating as he prepared his next move.

Without pausing, Natsuki shifted his weight and launched a series of rapid strikes, each aimed at different angles to test the clone's defensive capabilities. The clone parried each attack, its movements becoming more fluid as it warmed to Natsuki's rhythm. The exchange was fast-paced, each combatant moving with precision and intent, their swords ringing out in the quiet of the clearing as they danced around each other, each strike and block a critical part of their ongoing duel.

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

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

CP: 39/260
Mud Clone CP: 81

The intensity of the duel escalated as Natsuki and the mud clone pushed each other's limits further. Natsuki adopted a defensive stance, his sword held high, ready to deflect incoming attacks. The clone, sensing an opportunity, increased its offensive, unleashing a flurry of slashes aimed at breaking Natsuki’s guard.

Natsuki’s blade moved in swift, tight circles, parrying each strike with precision. He remained patient, conserving his energy while studying the clone’s patterns. Recognizing a repetitive downward slash, Natsuki timed his next move perfectly. As the clone’s blade came down, he stepped aside, using the clone’s momentum against it, guiding the sword away with a practiced deflection.

With the clone momentarily unbalanced, Natsuki didn’t hesitate. He advanced, his movements blending aggression with control. He delivered a quick succession of thrusts, each punctuated with the intent to find a chink in the clone’s defense. The clone backpedaled, struggling to regain its composure under Natsuki's relentless assault.

Each clash of their swords sent echoes through the clearing, a testament to the ferocity and skill of their engagement. Natsuki’s focus never wavered, his eyes sharp and his movements deliberate as he continued to press the advantage, seeking to end the bout with a decisive blow.

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

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

CP: 38/260
Mud Clone CP: 80

In the midst of their relentless duel, Natsuki and the mud clone continued to exchange a flurry of strikes, each movement refined and precise. Natsuki adopted a more aggressive approach, initiating a series of complex maneuvers designed to outflank the clone’s defenses.

He unleashed a rapid succession of feints, each cleverly masked to set up his next true strike. Darting forward, Natsuki aimed a swift thrust towards the clone’s midsection, which was deftly parried, but he immediately followed with a low sweep aimed at the clone’s legs. The clone jumped back, avoiding the swipe, its form momentarily disrupted by the need to regain balance.

Natsuki capitalized on this momentary break in the clone’s rhythm, spinning to deliver a powerful diagonal cut aimed at taking advantage of any lapse in the clone's guard. The clone, however, recovered quickly, meeting Natsuki’s blade with its own in a sharp clash that sent sparks flying through the air.

The two combatants reset their positions, circling each other with renewed caution, their blades reflecting the late afternoon sun as they prepared for the next sequence of their intricate dance.

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

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

CP: 37/260
Mud Clone CP: 79

Amidst the clash of swords, Natsuki sensed an opportunity to use more than just his blade.

With a rapid exchange of strikes that forced the clone to focus on parrying, Natsuki suddenly shifted his tactics. He feigned a high strike, causing the clone to raise its sword in anticipation. Instead of following through, Natsuki abruptly raissed his leg and launched a swift kick. His foot connected solidly with the clone’s lower body, the impact pushing the mud figure back and briefly disrupting its stance.

The clone staggered, its form slightly destabilized by the unexpected physical assault. Natsuki used this moment to press forward, his sword leading as he prepared to capitalize on the opening he had created. The sound of metal rang through the clearing as Natsuki’s blade met only minimal resistance, slicing through the air towards the recovering clone.

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

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

CP: 36/260
Mud Clone CP: 78

The clone parried and, as it swung back aggressively towards him, Natsuki executed a deft parry; his blade knocked the clone’s sword to the side with a resounding clang. The force of his deflection opened up his opponent’s guard for just a fraction of a second.

Seizing the opportunity, Natsuki followed through with a swift, fluid motion, rotating his torso to add momentum. His open hand whipped around in a sharp backhand that connected squarely with the clone's face. The impact was solid, the slap echoing through the clearing as the clone's head snapped to the side, mud splattering slightly from the force.

Stunned by the unexpected physical strike, the clone staggered back a step, trying to regain its balance and composure. Natsuki, maintaining his stance, readied himself for the next move, his eyes never leaving the slightly disoriented figure of his muddy adversary.

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

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

CP: 35/260
Mud Clone CP: 77

As the battle continued, Natsuki's sharp eyes caught sight of a small, jagged piece of debris from their earlier clash of Earth and Stone Dragons. It lay on the ground, unnoticed by the clone, a few paces behind where their duel was currently centered. Formulating a quick strategy, Natsuki began to subtly alter the direction of their engagement.

With each exchange of blows, he skillfully guided the clone, maneuvering around the clearing with precise footwork. His movements were calculated, each step and strike designed not only to fend off the clone’s attacks but also to subtly shift their positions. Natsuki’s intent was clear in his mind- to circle around and position the piece of debris directly at his own back.

As he engaged the clone with a series of aggressive strikes, he gradually steered the battle towards the debris. His plan was to use it tactically, turning the environment to his advantage. With a keen awareness of the terrain and a steady push, he was slowly but surely backing the clone into a strategic position without it realizing the imminent disadvantage.

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

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

CP: 34/260
Mud Clone CP: 76

Natsuki intensified his offensive, each strike more forceful than the last, pressing the mud clone relentlessly. With a flurry of rapid thrusts and sweeping cuts, he dominated the exchange, dictating the pace and direction of the combat. The clone, forced to defend against the barrage, found itself gradually losing ground, pushed back by Natsuki's aggressive maneuvers.

Methodically, Natsuki steered the duel towards the piece of debris he had spotted earlier. Unaware of the impending trap, the clone focused solely on parrying Natsuki's relentless attacks, each move more desperate than the last as it tried to regain its footing.

Finally, as they reached the critical point, Natsuki executed a particularly forceful push with his blade, coupled with a well-timed kick aimed at the clone's knee. The combination unbalanced the clone, causing it to stumble backward over the jagged rock. As it fell onto the ground, Natsuki was quick to act, stepping forward with a swift, graceful movement.

With the clone now prone, Natsuki positioned his katana at the clone's throat, the blade's edge gleaming coldly in the light. He held the position, his breathing steady and controlled, as he awaited the clone's next move, his eyes locked on his adversary with unwavering focus.

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

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

CP: 33/260
Mud Clone CP: 75

Natsuki momentarily relaxed the tension in his stance, withdrawing his katana from the clone's throat and sheathing it with a smooth, practiced motion. He then extended a hand toward the mud clone, a gesture of sportsmanship and an offer to help it back to its feet.

The clone, mirroring the gesture of goodwill, reached up to grasp Natsuki’s hand. However, as it did so, Natsuki’s expression shifted subtly, a glint of strategic intent flickering in his eyes. In a swift, fluid motion that belied his earlier offer of aid, Natsuki drew his katana once again.

With the clone just beginning to rise, Natsuki skillfully maneuvered the blade to intercept its movement. As the clone pulled forward by the hand, it found itself moving directly into the path of the waiting sword. The katana’s tip met the clone’s body with precision, halting its ascent abruptly.

The sudden betrayal of the friendly gesture left the clone impaled momentarily on Natsuki's blade, the mud forming its body barely maintaining its shape around the cold steel.

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

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

CP: 32/260
Mud Clone CP: 74

As the sword pierced the clone, a tense moment passed before the clone's eyes, darting back and forth between Natsuki and the blade embedded in its form. Then, almost simultaneously, both Natsuki and the clone began to chuckle, their laughter growing until it filled the clearing with its absurdity.

The laughter served to diffuse the tension, transforming the moment from one of confrontation to one of camaraderie and mutual respect for the skill and tactics involved. Natsuki’s eyes gleamed with amusement as he slowly withdrew his sword from the clone, the muddy hole remaining in place.

Still chuckling, Natsuki offered his hand once more, this time genuinely intending to help the clone to its feet. The clone accepted the offer, and Natsuki pulled it up with a firm tug. Standing together, still sporadically chuckling, they shared a moment of light-hearted connection.

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

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

CP: 31/260
Mud Clone CP: 73

As the laughter subsided, Natsuki and the mud clone reassumed their stances, facing each other with renewed focus. Their swords reflected the soft light filtering through the trees.

"So, what should we try next?" Natsuki queried, his tone light yet curious. The clone mirrored his stance and expression, pondering the question with equal seriousness.

"Maybe we could work on those combination strikes we've been meaning to try? Or try out some counter-defensive maneuvers?" the clone suggested, its voice a perfect echo of Natsuki's own.

Nodding thoughtfully, Natsuki twirled his sword, considering the options. Combination strikes could be good. They might give us an edge in handling multiple opponents.

The clone agreed, shifting its weight from one foot to the other in anticipation. "Alright, let’s set up a few sequences and see how we can integrate them with some footwork. It’ll be like a dance, but with blades," it added, enthusiasm evident in its tone.

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

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

CP: 30/260
Mud Clone CP: 72

Natsuki and the original mud clone exchanged a quick nod before the latter swiftly formed another mud clone. This new clone solidified into existence, adopting a readied stance opposite them, its expression eager and anticipatory.

The training ground became a unique tableau of three Natsukis, each a mirror of the other, standing in a triangular formation. The original clone spoke up, its tone light yet focused. "Alright, let's try those combination strikes. Focus on fluid movements and syncing our attacks," it directed.

Natsuki and the original clone began to circle the new clone, who rotated on the spot to keep them both in its sight. With a nod from Natsuki, the practice commenced. They launched into a series of coordinated attacks, their movements synchronized to confuse and outmaneuver their target.

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

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone 1]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
Earth Release: Mud Shadow Clone - A rank

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone 2]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 29/260
Mud Clone 1 CP: 30
Mud Clone 2 CP: 30

Natsuki and the first clone moved fluidly, each taking opposite sides of the second clone to initiate their attack from different angles. Natsuki’s blade targeted the torso while the first clone aimed for the legs, their movements synchronized in a deliberate pincer maneuver.

Unfazed, the second clone demonstrated its acute perceptiveness. Watching the directions of the impending strikes, it reacted with swift precision. With a short hop, it propelled its body upwards and laterally, spinning elegantly between the converging blades.

In a display of remarkable skill, the second clone parried both strikes in mid-air. It met Natsuki's high attack with its sword, creating a sharp clang that resonated through the air, before its rotation knocked the lower sword down. Landing smoothly, the clone maintained a composed stance, ready for the next move, its expression playfully serious.

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

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

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone 2]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 28/260
Mud Clone 1 CP: 29
Mud Clone 2 CP: 29

As Natsuki and the first clone regrouped from their failed attempt, Natsuki’s eyes widened in surprise at the second clone’s maneuver. He watched, a mixture of awe and realization crossing his features. I didn't think I was capable of that, he thought, marveling at the clone's fearless and precise defense. It must be because it’s not afraid of getting hurt... It can do things I’d normally never dare to try.

This insight sparked a new perspective in Natsuki. The clone, unfettered by the typical human concerns like pain or fear, could explore the limits of their shared techniques with abandon. This realization brought both a challenge and an opportunity: to learn from what seemed like his own unrestrained potential.

With renewed interest and a plan forming in his mind, Natsuki readied himself for another round.

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

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

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone 2]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 27/260
Mud Clone 1 CP: 28
Mud Clone 2 CP: 28

Natsuki and his mud clone lined up, facing their target with calculated precision. They began their approach, moving in a straight line towards the third clone, who stood ready.

As they closed the distance, the clone in front suddenly ducked low, tucking into a roll that brought it swiftly towards the third clone's legs. Simultaneously, Natsuki, maintaining his momentum, leaped high over his rolling counterpart. As he soared overhead, his sword poised high, the air filled with the tense anticipation of the impending strike.

The third clone, momentarily focused on the low attack, was caught off-guard as Natsuki descended. His blade slashed downwards in a powerful arc, targeting the upper body of the third clone.

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

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

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone 2]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - B rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

CP: 26/260
Mud Clone 1 CP: 27
Mud Clone 2 CP: 27

Natsuki's sword connected with a decisive strike, cleaving through the second clone from head to chest. The impact was met with a squelch as the clone's form was split apart, its substance temporarily losing cohesion as it fell into a muddy heap on the ground.

The surrounding air was filled with the heavy scent of wet earth as the split clone lay in disarray. However, it wasn't long before the mud began to stir, the pieces moving towards each other with a sluggish, almost deliberate motion. Gradually, the mud reformed, pulling itself back into the semblance of the clone, its features reshaping until it stood whole once again, albeit with a slight shudder as it regained its full stature.

Natsuki and the first clone watched with a mix of satisfaction and anticipation, their breaths steady in the quiet aftermath of the strike. They reset their stances, swords ready and eyes sharp. The second clone, now fully reformed, nodded to its counterparts, a silent signal of readiness. Once more, they prepared to engage, the air around them crackling with the tension of the upcoming bout.

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

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone 1]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - C rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)

[Used Techniques - Mud Clone 2]
Earth Release: Dance of the Mudslide Style - C rank - 1 CP (Earth Ninjutsu Affinity)
whoops, I've been calling these B ranks

CP: 25/260
Mud Clone 1 CP: 26
Mud Clone 2 CP: 26