Night fell.
Deep in a secluded forest somewhere in Konoha, mottled moonlight trickled through the branches and leaves, faintly illuminating a figure bound to a tree trunk.
With a soft groan, Hayate woke from his unconsciousness.
Who am I?
Where am I?
What am I doing?
Right, the Eight Inner Gates Formation... That spy!
Hayate had only just recalled what happened before he passed out when a wave of intense pain drenched him in cold sweat.
After taking a blow from a counterfeit Eight Gates punch, several bones throughout his body were fractured. It was a miracle he was still alive.
Hayate tried to call for help, but someone had taped his mouth shut. All he could manage were muffled whimpers that grew inaudible after traveling ten meters.
Breathing shallowly, Hayate lowered his head to check himself. Only then did he realize his right shoulder was fractured, he had several other broken bones, his Chakra was sealed, the Ninja Tool Pouch on his leg had been taken, and he was tied to the tree trunk with only half his feet touching the ground!
His opponent wasn't just cautious—he was a real snake!
Hayate gritted his teeth.
"You're awake."
Just then, Shennong strode over beneath the mottled moonlight, looking proud and imposing.
"Mmm! Mmm! Mmm!" Hayate groaned through the pain. Who are you?!
"I know you have plenty of questions. As it happens, I have some for you, too," Shennong said with a smile. "You answer one of mine, and I'll answer one of yours. How about it? Nod if you agree."
Hayate pretended to hesitate, then reluctantly nodded after a moment.
Shennong sneered as he stepped forward and ripped off the tape. "First question: tell me how to get through the Konoha Barrier Jutsu!"
Hayate put on an elaborate act,