Ryuuto blinked at the system screen.
[Hokage Role Integration Mode activated!]
"…Integration mode? Sounds like some DLC scam. What the hell are you even talking about, Shion?"
[Instructions provided. Because explaining to idiots like you is exhausting.]
He skimmed the glowing text:
[Hokage Role Integration Mode]: Each character packet carries a unique physique. Switching mid-battle may cause the Host's body to fail to adapt, leading to pauses, fainting, or—if you're especially pathetic—instant death. To prevent this, the system introduces 'Integration Mode.'When synchronization rate with a packet reaches 100%, its physique permanently merges with the Host's body. Integrated packets no longer require switching. There is no upper limit. Synchronization rate increases through usage.
Ryuuto's eyes widened. "…So basically, the more I use these data packs, the more my body straight-up evolves? And once it hits 100%, I get to keep the power forever—even if you disappear?"
[Correct. Finally, you used your brain. Mark the calendar.]
His mind flashed back to the Hulk fight—how his body shifted when swapping from Rock Lee's taijutsu into Konohamaru's shadow clones. That sudden change in "feel" wasn't illusion, but his physique being reshaped to fit each character.
Which meant… if he ever used Orochimaru's packet, he might actually inherit that paper-thin body. Gross.
But with integration mode unlocked, everything changed.
He immediately checked his stats:
Rock Lee packet — Synchronization: 56%
Konohamaru packet — Synchronization: 23%
"Tch. So far from 100%… Guess I've got grinding to do."
To test it, he formed a Rasengan in his palm. The orb spun, energy snarling like a miniature storm.
[Konohamaru packet: Synchronization 24%][…25%][…26%]
"Hah! It's actually ticking up every minute. This is farmable!"
Satisfied, he dispersed the chakra—only to hear a groan from the crater.
"…Right. The green rage machine."
Ryuuto hopped down, tossing his shirt over Banner's bare shoulders. "You alive, doc?"
Banner grimaced, voice hoarse. "Won't die. My healing factor's close to Wolverine's… but self-repair feels like a hundred tiny hands ripping at my organs. Give me five minutes. The body'll patch itself."
He tried to laugh, then winced. "Still… what the hell did you do to hurt me like that?"
Ryuuto smirked. "Ever eat watermelon?"
"…Yes?"
"The rind's thick. Tap it lightly, no effect. But keep tapping, and the flesh inside vibrates, turns to mush. That's what I did—slapped your body thousands of times a second until your organs begged for mercy."
Banner blinked—then burst into rough laughter. "Hah! Like those kung fu movies—'strike the cow through the air!' Damn. So it's true after all."
"Exactly."
Banner sobered, shaking his head. "I always thought Hulk was invincible. Looks like you found his flaw."
Ryuuto shrugged. "Don't get cocky. Exploiting it requires speed beyond his perception. Outside me? Only speedsters like Quicksilver or the Flash could manage it."
"Then I'll count on you," Banner said, eyes heavy. "Whenever Hulk takes over, I lose myself. Can't tell friend from foe. Every time I wake up after a rampage… I hate myself. If only I'd never touched gamma radiation…"
Ryuuto raised a brow. "Tch. Being a hero beats being a faceless nobody. Own it."
Banner gave a hollow laugh. "Sometimes that 'hero' is a villain."
He finally stood, tying the shirt around his waist. "Sorry about this. I'll buy you a replacement."
"It's fine." Ryuuto waved it off, then offered his hand. "Name's Ryuuto. From Japan. Currently enrolled at Axville's Genius Youth School."
"…Wait. You're X-Men?" Banner blinked. "I thought you were an Avenger recruit! Damn shame. With your talent, Avengers should be begging to sign you. Hell, I'll tell Fury to poach you myself!"
Ryuuto snorted. "…Figures. Everyone wants a piece of me now."