If he had to choose between A-rank and B-rank jutsu, Hyuga Kagami currently found the most useful ones for himself to be the B-rank Shadow Clone Jutsu and the A-rank Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu.
For taijutsu-type ninja, the Shadow Clone Jutsu was a technique that could instantly multiply their combat power. If used correctly, it could yield extraordinary results in battle.
As a member of the prestigious Hyuga clan, Kagami knew his family likely had the Shadow Clone Jutsu—and even the Multi Shadow Clone Jutsu—among their secret techniques.
So originally, Kagami had planned to first complete Hiashi's task and resolve the clan's trust vote regarding a member's promotion to jonin. Afterward, he would use the favor earned from that success to request permission to study jutsu from the clan.
But plans never keep up with changes. Right now, he didn't have the time to make that request.
Despite that, he still didn't want to use the opportunity granted by the Third Hokage to learn the Shadow Clone Jutsu.
This chance from the Third was just too rare. It was, without a doubt, his only legitimate opportunity to come into contact with sealing techniques at the moment. He had to take full advantage of it.
As for the Shadow Clone Jutsu, he decided to get it from Shisui.
After all, Shisui owed him several favors from the whole Uchiha challenge incident. Asking for a mere B-rank Shadow Clone Jutsu as repayment wasn't unreasonable.
Having made up his mind, Kagami said in a firm voice, "Lord Hokage, I wish to study advanced sealing techniques."
The Third furrowed his brow. "Sealing techniques?"
Learning sealing techniques placed extremely high demands on a ninja. If a ninja hadn't specialized in it from a young age, they generally needed to be at least an elite jonin to learn high-level sealing jutsu effectively.
It wasn't just about chakra quantity—it was about precise control over one's chakra.
Some sealing techniques even required immense spiritual strength or rare bloodlines. The barrier to entry was high.
After a moment of hesitation, the Third ultimately nodded and agreed to Kagami's request.
After all, the decision was Kagami's to make. Even as Hokage, he had no reason to interfere in such a personal matter.
Once Kagami's request was confirmed, the Third turned to ask both Guy and Shisui.
Guy, citing his dedication to taijutsu, immediately declined the chance to study an advanced jutsu.
The Third nodded in approval.
It was likely Guy's unwavering focus on taijutsu that allowed him to shine so brightly in that field later on, becoming one of the few ninja during the Fourth Great Ninja War capable of threatening Madara.
As for Shisui, coming from the powerful Uchiha clan, he already had access to most A- and B-rank jutsu. He had originally intended to decline as well.
However, seeing that Kagami chose to learn something, and not wanting to leave Kagami standing alone, Shisui casually selected a B-rank Fire Release jutsu he hadn't learned yet.
Soon after, Kagami and Shisui followed the Third Hokage to the secret archives located in the basement of the Hokage Tower.
On the way there, Kagami activated his Tenseigan at full power, recording every detail of the path.
"There are two turns from the first floor to the basement, each guarded by two hidden sentries—four in total. Judging by their chakra, all are special jonin."
"The corridor has five ninjutsu formations. Likely sensing-type jutsu. If someone without the Third's chakra signature or some kind of authorized marker enters, they'll be triggered."
"Huh... There's a sealing formula on this staircase that I've never seen before. Doesn't look like something from the Uzumaki style..."
While observing, Kagami also analyzed the possibility of infiltration.
The overall security of the Hokage Tower wasn't as tight as he'd imagined. This might be due to the village being short-staffed recently.
Aside from administrative staff, there were about a dozen visible chunin guards, and maybe three or four Anbu teams hidden in the shadows—including the Hokage's personal bodyguard unit.
Though not heavily staffed, with the Third Hokage himself present, this level of defense was enough to repel nearly any enemy.
Kagami maintained a calm expression and silently shelved his thoughts.
Following the stairs, Kagami and Shisui arrived at the door to the secret archives under the Third's guidance.
The Third quickly performed a hand seal and pressed one hand against the door.
Boom...
A deep rumble echoed, and the heavy door slowly opened.
"Come in."
The Third gestured and walked inside first.
As soon as Kagami stepped in, his eyes widened. The secret archives were far larger than he'd imagined.
The Third skillfully moved through rows of shelves and quickly returned with two scrolls, handing them to Kagami and Shisui.
Shisui casually chose a B-rank Fire Release technique he hadn't learned yet and quietly stepped aside.
Meanwhile, Kagami carefully examined the scrolls introducing various sealing techniques.
He had many options to choose from, including the common Five Elements Seal, Four Symbols Seal, Eight Trigrams Seal, and more uncommon ones like the Evil Sealing Method and Contract Seal.
After comparing and analyzing, Kagami found the Four Symbols Seal to be the most similar to the Uzumaki clan's style. After a bit of thought, he chose that one.
The Third gave a satisfied nod and put away the introductory scrolls.
Then, he retrieved the full scroll detailing the Four Symbols Seal and the Fire Release jutsu Shisui picked, handing them over to Kagami and Shisui respectively.
The Third reminded them, "Any jutsu learned through Anbu clearance cannot be shared freely. You were made aware of this when you joined Anbu."
Kagami and Shisui both nodded. As members of prestigious clans, they were long familiar with these rules.
The Third added one final warning: "The scrolls must be returned within one month. If you're away on a mission, the deadline can be extended. But if you encounter danger—destroy the scrolls. Do not let them leak!"
"Understood!"
As soon as they left the Hokage Tower, Kagami brought up the Shadow Clone Jutsu with Shisui.
Shisui was stunned. In his mind, Kagami—someone capable of taking down an elite Iwagakure jonin in one-on-one combat—should have already mastered something like the B-rank Shadow Clone Jutsu.
Kagami obviously couldn't explain that, half a year ago, he was little more than cannon fodder. So, he made up a vague excuse and brushed off the question...