Chapter 4: Darkness
Arthur considered his options. The unfairness of it all was quite clear.
"Clan-less" seemed like a bleak prospect, offering no special abilities or starting bonuses. With disappointment, he navigated back to that final option. The description was appalling.
Zero ryō, orphan status, average chakra reserves—it was a slap in the face compared to the advantages the other clans provided. Plus, the player wouldn't start out in the Leaf Village. No wonder it was the only option left.
Amidst the bleakness, there was a pro: Player's support techniques are easier to learn.
Such techniques are commonly classified as buffing allies, laying traps, or intel gathering. Maybe, just maybe, this particular character wouldn't be a complete letdown.
Arthur wasn't one to give up easily. He wouldn't let this virtual world break him. Instead, he'd turn it into an opportunity.
With a finger, he minimized the clan selection menu. He then navigated back to the information that explained Naruto's story. This time, he read it with a renewed focus, not on the plot itself but on the details—the hidden training methods, the forgotten jutsu, the unexpected power-ups.
He searched for loopholes—for those moments when the underdog triumphed and ingenuity overtook brute force. He also explored every side character, every forgotten technique, and every seemingly insignificant detail.
Hours—or perhaps it felt like hours—melted away as he delved into the narrative. If there was a way to overcome his limitations, it would be hidden somewhere within the story—somewhere the developers neglected.
Finally, with a satisfied sigh, he closed the information window. He wasn't going in blind anymore. He had a plan, a strategy. Maybe not a perfect one, but it was his.
With a newfound determination, he pressed back on the character selection menu and confirmed his choice: "Clan-less."