“ ninth year, spring. fifth day of the fifth month. Heatwave day again. The sun outside the training ground was scorching, reflecting off the ground like scattered fireflies. I was supposed to be training, but I was sitting by the window, swatting at flies with a fly swatter, watching the training field below. The air in the training ground was filled with the smell of sweat and sand, and the shouts and laughter of people practicing missions.”

Akito sighed and took a sip of water from the water bottle in his hand. He saw a group of shadowy figures, led by a tall, dark-skinned man, approaching him. He frowned and recognized the man as Sai, the Puppet Master. Sai was one of the Jonin instructors this year, and he was known for his strict and unyielding attitude. Akito felt a bit nervous, but he quickly composed himself and stood up, ready to greet Sai.

“ Do you need help?” Akito asked politely.

Sai glanced at him and said, “ You’re the one who’s supposed to be training, but you’re here doing nothing!”