Hayashi bent down, picking up the thin stack of envelopes and brushing off the dust.
The envelopes were light; it was clear there wasn't much money inside—not even enough to cover last night's dinner.
Observing Dai's expression, Hayashi realized the story about opening a store was just a cover, an excuse to hide his lack of funds. Dai was clearly short on money and borrowing from Teacher Nishimura.
The same Might Dai who would later display unmatched skill in a one-against-seven battle, covering the retreat of three others, now had to rely on friends for financial support? It seemed incredible. Might Dai might even be the strongest taijutsu user of this generation, yet here he was, struggling.
Hayashi sighed. Poverty could strike even the strongest.
Still, it was understandable. As a Genin, Dai wasn't eligible for high-level missions, and his income was modest. Taijutsu training, especially opening the Eight Inner Gates, was extremely taxing and required expensive supplements to maintain the body. That green jumpsuit he wore year-round? It wasn't just for style—it was practical and affordable.
Thinking this over, Hayashi decided to act. Why not extend a helping hand?
"Teacher, what kind of store are you planning to open?" he asked, careful not to expose Teacher Nishimura's lie.
"I haven't thought that far yet," Nishimura replied vaguely.
Hayashi didn't press further. This money was secretly obtained, without the knowledge of Nishimura's wife, and he didn't intend to reveal anything.
After a moment, Hayashi proposed, "How about the three of us cooperate? I've also been considering opening a store, but manpower is an issue. We could work together."
Nishimura and Dai stared, stunned.
"I need a steady supply of explosive tags and training equipment," Hayashi continued. "So I plan to open a weapon store on the Konoha commercial street, selling all kinds of weapons and training tools."
The two men were speechless. Explosive tags? A weapon store? Wasn't that extravagant?
Hayashi ignored their reactions. Though the idea had come to him spontaneously, it was actually feasible. Konoha had many ninjas, and weapons would always be in demand. Opening such a store would never be unprofitable.
Moreover, ninjas running stores wasn't unusual—Yamanaka Inoichi ran a flower shop, after all. And helping Dai, whose family situation was difficult, was the right thing to do.
There were additional benefits. Dai's character was admirable, and befriending him could provide valuable guidance in taijutsu and possibly even insight into the Eight Inner Gates in the future. Not everyone was as straightforward as Rock Lee; a strong relationship was essential.
Hayashi was taking the wise approach: make allies, reduce enemies.
Nishimura hesitated. "Opening a store requires capital. Do you have enough money?"
Hayashi nodded. "I've accumulated sufficient merits from missions; funds aren't an issue."
"And the store itself? Commercial street property isn't easy to acquire."
Hayashi smiled. "Don't worry about that. Nawaki has family holdings here; most of the commercial land deeds are still under Tsunade-sama's control. Location isn't a problem."
The key was choosing the right spot. Naturally, next to Ichiraku Ramen. Even Pain wouldn't dare touch that landmark, and it guaranteed security.
"Teacher Nishimura, Dai-san," Hayashi said seriously, "I have the funds, but I lack access to weapons and goods. You both train daily, so you know where to source items affordably. You manage the store, and profits will exceed any mission earnings."
It was a win-win arrangement. Teacher Nishimura could continue teaching, Dai could focus on training, and financial concerns would be resolved.
Nishimura asked Dai, "…What do you think?"
Dai nodded firmly. Nishimura had contributed his salary to help, and Hayashi's plan was a generous way to ensure their welfare. Dai was deeply moved; for a moment, he even considered dedicating himself entirely to the store rather than being a ninja.
Hayashi, however, would have broken into a cold sweat had he known.
"Since it's settled," Hayashi said, "you two go secure the goods, and I'll handle the funding."
"Wait, Hayashi," Nishimura called.
"What is it, Teacher Nishimura?" Hayashi asked.
"If you have time, stop by the Ninja Academy. My new students know you're my student and all want to meet you," Nishimura replied.
Hayashi raised an eyebrow. His pretense skills weren't perfect, and a quick visit could help refine them further.
"Then it's settled. There's also a problem student—you can help guide him," Nishimura added. Without waiting for a reply, he left, pulling Dai along.
Hayashi watched them go, a small smile on his face.