Kaizen's final introductory session of the week covered the Summoning Department. Summoning has always been a highly revered and versatile technique in the world of shinobi. The session began with an overview of the summoning jutsu, detailing the various processes of forming contracts with summoning creatures. Kaizen learned that summoning contracts most often involve a ritual where the user offers their blood to bind the contract, aligning their chakra with the summoning animal.
'I don't remember there being exceptions to this rule in the series. The differences just keep adding up.'
As he continued to listen, Kaizen's thoughts turned to the intricate connections between summoner and summon. He wondered if the process of binding one's chakra and blood to a summoning creature might indicate a deeper connection, possibly even involving the user's soul.
In the Naruto world, where chakra itself was a fusion of physical and spiritual energy, this idea held weight. Kaizen speculated that this connection could explain why the bond between summoner and summon was often so strong and enduring.
Kaizen thought about notable summoners like Jiraiya and his contract with the toads of Mount Myoboku. He pondered how Jiraiya's strong bond with the toads might go beyond mere chakra alignment, potentially involving a deeper spiritual connection. This could be why the summoning creatures were willing to fight alongside their summoner with unwavering loyalty, and why they could communicate so effectively.
Another example that came to Kaizen's mind was Sasuke's sacrifice of Manda to save himself during the fight with Deidara. This event made Kaizen speculate if there were different levels of contracts that could be made. While Jiraiya's contract with the toads seemed akin to a familial bond, Sasuke's appeared more like a reluctant agreement. Kaizen theorized that if true, then these varying levels of relationships could significantly impact the summoner's effectiveness.
A reluctant agreement, like Sasuke's, might lead to complications. The summoning creature might not always obey the summoner, and in extreme cases, such as being sacrificed, the species might become hostile altogether. Although Sasuke's case didn't result in outright hostility from the snakes, it was a risky move that could easily backfire if done wantonly.
Reflecting on his own potential summoning options, Kaizen realized the importance of choosing a summoning creature wisely. The bond he would form would not only enhance his combat capabilities but could also influence his spiritual and emotional well-being.
The instructor continued, "There are many intricacies to learn about the various summoning contracts. Each contract has its own terms and nature, which could include the culture of the species, the attitude of specific summons, and various restrictions that different species might have if a contract is formed. For instance, some contracts are merely binding agreements, while others are said to spiritually restrict the summoner from making another contract."
Kaizen listened intently as the instructor elaborated on the complexities. "Depending on the species or the contract itself, a summoner might only be allowed to have that one singular contract. There have been countless research studies into the field, and some theorize that the strength of a user's soul might have something to do with specific contracts or summons that one can acquire. The spiritual connection is not just a matter of chakra but also involves one's essence."
The instructor then explained, "Some contracts demand a high level of respect and mutual understanding. The culture of the species plays a significant role in how they interact with their summoner. For example, some species may value honor and bravery, while others might prioritize cunning and intelligence. Understanding these cultural nuances is crucial for a successful partnership."
The teacher continued their explanation, stating that summoning creatures can serve various roles in combat, reconnaissance, and support. They provide unique abilities and skills that complement the summoner's own capabilities.
The instructor demonstrated a summoning jutsu, calling forth a sleek, armored falcon that appeared in a swirl of smoke. "This is my summoning partner, Arashi. Falcons are known for their speed and sharp vision, making them excellent for reconnaissance and aerial combat."
Kaizen marveled at the majestic bird, understanding the vast potential of summoning creatures. "Are there other restrictions I should be aware of?" he asked.
The instructor nodded. "Yes, some species may impose limitations on the summoner's actions. For example, certain contracts might restrict the summoner from engaging in specific activities or require them to uphold particular values. The relationships between summon and summoner often vary depending on the factors previously discussed."
Kaizen considered this carefully. "So, it's not just about the power they bring but also the responsibilities that come with it."
"Exactly," the instructor confirmed. "Choosing a summoning partner is a significant decision that should not be taken lightly. The right summoning creature can become a lifelong ally, offering invaluable support in various missions and battles. It's essential to weigh the benefits and obligations of each contract."
The instructor then demonstrated a quick series of hand signs, and with a burst of chakra, Arashi disappeared in another puff of smoke. "Summoning jutsu is more than just calling a creature; it's about forming a bond and working in harmony with your summon. The stronger the bond, the more effective your cooperation in critical situations."
As the session continued, Kaizen became particularly curious about a technique he didn't remember reading about in the series. It is a derivation of the summoning jutsu known as the Chakra Resonance Transference.
This technique allows a user to transport themselves to a location of summoning animals that best aligns with the individual.
It is considered pretty ancient with it being passed to humans by some of the oldest known summons as a way of fostering trust and nurturing future relations. However, this was said to have happened well before the founding of Konoha with very little definitive explanation of an exact origin.
Due to the research and experiments conducted throughout the years, it has been theorized that the alignment of the individual most likely refers to the user's soul rather than their chakra alone.
Many users with the same chakra nature have received different results. Even when two people attempted to disguise their chakra signatures to be the same before performing the technique, their results still differed. Closely related familial blood often achieved the same or similar species which might indicate that genetics play a factor as well. However, outside of the immediate blood family, this consistency no longer applied despite blood relations.
An important note to consider about Chakra Resonance Transference is that it is not intended as a means of escape during combat. Instead, it serves as a unique method for gaining an opportunity to establish a summoning contract with animals that share a strong affinity with the user.
To perform this technique, a ritual must first be conducted. The user aligns their chakra and blood with a blank summoning contract, which mirrors their chakra and lifeforce. The ritual involves intricate seals and the drawing of symbols on a specially prepared scroll.
Throughout this, the user must continuously pour as much chakra as they can into the seals and scroll. Supposedly, the more of their chakra that is used in the ritual, the better the alignment will be between the user and location transported. Once the ritual is complete, the user can activate the reverse summoning technique, transporting themselves to the summoning animal's domain.
The instructor emphasized the significance and risks associated with this technique. "This ritual can only be performed once in a person's lifetime," he explained. "If you attempt to use the technique again, nothing will happen. It's crucial that you choose the right moment to perform this ritual. Ideally, it should be done when you believe you have reached your pinnacle or near-pinnacle of strength to earn the respect of the summoning animal you encounter."
Kaizen listened intently, absorbing the instructor's words. He learned that there have been cases where users died after performing the ritual, unable to return. The ritual scroll lights up, mirroring the user's chakra and lifeforce. If the lights go out before the user returns, it indicates death.
The session continued with lectures on the training, development of techniques, and scouting within the summoning department. Established contracts with summoning animals require continuous training and development to maintain a strong bond and improve combat effectiveness. The department conducts specialized training programs for summoners to streamline their growth and enhance their abilities.
Kaizen learned that scouting missions are also an essential part of the department's activities. These missions are a safer alternative to the reverse summoning ritual and aim to discover new summoning animals and establish new contracts. Scouts travel to various regions, searching for potential summoning animals and negotiating contracts with them.
The idea of reverse summoning and the associated risks fascinated him, highlighting the blend of mystical and practical elements in the Naruto world.
Kaizen left the session with a lot to think about and plan for in the future. The summoning contracts were never so deeply discussed or explored in the series.
'Considering everything I have learned; it appears that I will need to rely solely on my own strength for the foreseeable future. I want to perform the Chakra Resonance Transference ritual, but that isn't within the realm of possibility for me as of now. I doubt it would likely take at least a decade for me to gain the strength necessary to protect myself and possibly longer depending on where I am summoned.'
Kaizen knew he could make contracts with already established species within the village, but that wasn't something he would feel satisfied with doing. He always held himself to a higher standard, one that many would consider impossible to live up to. It reminded him of a saying he came up with in his last life when someone questioned him about his unrealistic expectations.
'The moon appears each night as if a fleeting illusion of a dream unexplored. With most who can only sit aside and watch; who is he that dares to gaze past and reach for the stars beyond?'