Kazehaya Hayate watched as Sarutobi Hiruzen's back slowly disappeared from sight. He slumped weakly into his chair, took a deep breath—only to choke as he accidentally inhaled the smoke that still lingered in the air.
What a beautiful world... but why does this system make me feel so uneasy?
The system gave no reply. The silence made Hayate's temples throb.
Fine, he thought, leaning back. The boat goes straight when it reaches the bridge. If this world is real... then these people are real too. And if they're real, then maybe... it's not so bad to treat this as another life—as long as I don't forget who I am.
That thought brought a small, genuine laugh to his lips. The clouds weighing on his heart finally began to clear.
Morning came quickly. The first golden ray of sunlight crept across his cheek, forcing his eyes open. Hayate blinked blearily at the clock—6:00 a.m.
He wanted to sleep until noon. He really did. But reality, as usual, didn't care.
Only an hour left until the agreed meeting time. The moment he remembered that the adorable Hinata would be dropping by, a flicker of excitement shot through his chest.
In a flurry, he threw on his clothes and tied his forehead protector, splashed water on his face, and looked at his reflection in the mirror. His expression turned smug.
Damn... I'm handsome. Definitely guest-ready.
Just then, his stomach let out a loud "gurgle!"
Hayate straightened proudly. Even my belly's impressed by my looks? I really am too charming.
After completing his daily ritual of self-praise, he sat cross-legged to meditate. After all, good looks couldn't fill an empty stomach—and since his belly seemed moved by his charm, he had the responsibility to feed it.
Muttering about "handsome men and their hardships," he started rummaging through his cupboards in search of food.
Unfortunately, whether it was divine punishment or just his cursed luck carrying over from his old world, the cupboards were bare. Once again, Hayate was destined to diet.
Knock, knock, knock...
A sudden rapping at the door pulled him from his misery.
Hayate rubbed his tired face, put on a bright smile, and opened the door. Sure enough—there stood Hinata, fidgeting nervously.
"Good morning, Hinata!"
"G-good morning, Brother Hayate..." she replied, her cheeks glowing red. It was the first time she'd ever gone to a boy's house so early in the morning, and her shyness was almost visible.
"Let's go," Hayate said cheerfully, locking the door behind him.
"Um... that..." Hinata hesitated, twisting her fingers together as though struggling to speak. "I... um... it's nothing..." She quickly turned away, hiding a small paper bag behind her back.
Hayate caught the movement instantly and smiled. "Is that bag for me?"
"Ah—uh... yes..." she stammered, her face turning even redder. "I thought... you might not have time for breakfast, so I... brought some snacks... for you."
"Oh?" Hayate blinked in surprise, then crouched slightly to meet her gaze with a warm smile. "That's really kind of you, Hinata. Thank you."
"N-no, it's fine! L-let's hurry... we'll be late, and Teacher Kurenai and Kiba might already be waiting...!" she said quickly, walking ahead to hide her flustered face—but her uneven steps betrayed her mood.
Hayate chuckled softly and caught up in a few strides, walking beside her.
What an adorably thoughtful girl...
When they arrived at the bridge, Kurenai and Kiba were already waiting. Seeing Hayate and Hinata approach, Kurenai smiled gently.
"Sorry we're late," Hinata said, bowing her head.
"It's fine," Kurenai replied kindly. "We only just got here ourselves."
Kiba folded his arms and snorted, looking away with mock annoyance. "Hmph."
Kurenai clapped her hands lightly. "All right, everyone. Today's mission will be a little more demanding."
At her serious tone, the three Genin immediately straightened. Hayate, Hinata, and Kiba all leaned in, hanging on her every word.
"Our first task is..." She drew out the words dramatically, her melodic voice heightening the suspense. Then, with a firm nod, she declared,"...to help the villagers cultivate the fields!"
"...Huh?"Hayate and Kiba froze, then exchanged blank looks. Kiba turned away with a scowl.
"Teacher," Hayate said, scratching his head. "Can't we do... a different kind of mission? Maybe one that doesn't involve dirt? Like—uh, catching a rogue ninja or something? You know, something... more heroic?"
Kurenai chuckled softly. "You three just became Genin. You have no real mission experience yet. You're not ready for dangerous assignments."
"But sensei!" Hayate protested, "Even helping with farm work doesn't teach us much! Please—give us something challenging! Preferably one that pays a little more, too."
Kurenai frowned thoughtfully, then looked at Hinata and Kiba. "What about you two?"
"I-I'll do what everyone decides..." Hinata murmured.
"Ha!" Kiba snorted, folding his arms. "Teacher Kurenai, this mission's way too easy for me! Give us something tougher!"
Kurenai sighed deeply. "All right... how about this?" She reached into her pouch and pulled out a small bell. "If any of you can take this bell from me within fifteen minutes, I'll agree to your request."
Her lips curved slightly. Kakashi, I'll be borrowing your idea for a bit...
But her eyes lingered on Hayate. This boy... his speed is impressive. Last time, even though he arrived late, he managed to restrain Kiba's Inuzuka speed. He's fast—very fast.
Kiba grinned, flashing his canine teeth. "Heh. Just watch—I'll be the one to grab that bell before you even move, Hayate!"
Hayate almost laughed aloud. Kurenai's really going with Kakashi's test, huh? But... her goal's different this time.
Kakashi's bell test was about teamwork.Kurenai's version? Purely about strength.
If they succeeded, they'd earn the right to take tougher missions.If they failed... well, they'd be back in the fields helping villagers plow the earth.