Inside the Hokage's Office
Kushina Uzumaki's excitement was palpable as she vividly described Uchiha Hayato's battle with the boys. Her enthusiasm painted a picture as if she wished she could have fought in his place.
However, her expression soon sobered as she recalled the circumstances. After all, the fight had started because of her, and showing such joy in front of the Third Hokage was akin to "dancing on thin ice."
"Lord Third, what kind of punishment will Uchiha Hayato and the others face?" she asked nervously.
Though outspoken by nature, Kushina was still a sensitive young girl. She worried about Hayato, who had stood up for her, and didn't want him to face severe repercussions. She decided she'd find a way to thank him later, when things had settled.
Hiruzen Sarutobi rested his chin on his hands, his gaze thoughtful. This incident wasn't just about Kushina; it also involved the Uchiha clan. While things had remained stable during his teacher's era, the release of Uchiha Setsuna had reignited the faction within the clan that sought power through strength. Their ambition for an Uchiha Hokage burned bright.
With a shake of his head, Hiruzen made a decision. "Yōhei, bring—no, I'll handle this myself."
At the ninja academy, the Third Hokage was greeted by the sight of several boys sprawled across the ground. Only three figures remained standing. Minato Namikaze leaned against a wall, his face slightly swollen, watching the ongoing fight between two others.
Chimchar had also retreated to the sidelines, but it was animatedly cheering for Uchiha Hayato. Its small fists pumped in the air, and it stamped its feet on the ground like it was performing a victory dance.
"Chii-chii! ٩(*Ӧ)و"
Hayato couldn't help but admire the tenacity of his opponent, Dekai. The boy's dark skin and white hair bore a striking resemblance to someone from the Land of Lightning. Though Hayato had knocked him down multiple times, Dekai stubbornly got back up, forcing Hayato to question if he was the real villain in this scenario.
Still, Hayato was certain of his own strength. Thanks to the system's unique benefits, he felt his stamina recovering with each passing moment.
Dekai staggered to his feet, knees trembling, and threw another straight punch. Hayato sidestepped and countered with a swift punch to the gut. Dekai collapsed to the ground, groaning in pain.
"Why? Why can't I beat you?" Dekai cried out in frustration.
Hayato smirked. "From the beginning, you were already defeated. I have bonds—with Chimchar, with Minato. You're nothing more than bullies who prey on others. We're not even in the same league."
Mission Completed: The Crimson Chili's Arrival
Reward: Move Tutor—Split Slash1, Experience Candies XS5
A round of applause broke the tension. Hayato turned to see a middle-aged man in robes clapping. He quickly realized who it was.
"Lord Third," he greeted.
Hiruzen's presence startled everyone, including Dekai, who struggled to his feet to show respect.
"I've heard everything that happened," Hiruzen said sternly. "This village is home to all of us, and you are the future of Konoha. Always remember: 'united we stand, divided we fall.' Never misuse your strength against your comrades."
Dekai hung his head, clearly aware that the Third Hokage was addressing him. Meanwhile, Hayato couldn't help but feel a sense of triumph. Not only had he completed the mission, but he'd also earned valuable rewards.
"However," Hiruzen continued, "resorting to violence to protect others is still not the right path. The village belongs to everyone, and any disputes should be resolved responsibly. For now, the teachers will handle this situation."
Turning to Hayato, Hiruzen added, "You did well to protect Kushina, but you must also register your summoning beast with the village. We've never seen a creature like it before, and it's crucial to ensure it doesn't accidentally cause harm."
Hayato nodded, though he noticed many of his classmates now looked at him with awe. Even Minato offered him a smile, his expression suggesting newfound respect.
As Hayato followed Yōhei to register Chimchar, the teacher spoke with a mix of gratitude and concern. "Thank you for standing up to them. I don't know how much longer they would've gone on without you stepping in. But like the Third Hokage said, any conflicts in the future should be resolved through proper channels. You know, Dekai wasn't always like this. He lost his parents, and he used to be the one bullied."
"Is that so?" Hayato replied skeptically. Then, with a shrug, he added, "Still, that doesn't excuse his actions. Words and deeds leave marks, and the harm he's caused doesn't just vanish."
Just as Hayato finished registering Chimchar, members of the Konoha Police Force appeared.
"Are you Uchiha Hayato? Elder Setsuna wants to see you."