Hayashi returned home and began haphazardly packing his things.
He rolled his spare clothes into a ball, checked his Ninja Tool Pouch, and wrapped the sword Hayate had given him in cloth before slinging it across his back-the black sheath and white hilt had long since become his constant companions.
After taking stock of his belongings, Hayashi rubbed his chin and considered his supplies. He had enough kunai and shuriken, but Explosive Tags were expensive, and he had never brought himself to buy any.
Oh well. I'll worry about that when I actually need them.
As he was packing, a few knocks came from the door.
They were light and very polite.
Knock, knock-knock.
At this hour... Sakura? Or Ino?
Muttering to himself, Hayashi walked over and opened the door.
Uzuki Yugao stood outside.
"Yugao-"
Before he could finish, she reached out with a smile and affectionately ruffled his hair.
"Oh my, your hair's gotten longer again."
Only after she had ruffled it to her satisfaction did Uzuki Yugao withdraw her hand, then sigh in mock complaint.
"You hardly ever come to see us now that you're a Genin. Hayate's mentioned it several times, wondering if our cooking isn't to your taste anymore."
"Of course not." Hayashi smiled helplessly, letting her fiddle with his hair again. "I only just passed the test. There's been a lot to do."
"I know, I know." Yugao's eyes curved with her smile. "I'm teasing you."
She looked Hayashi up and down, then began reminding him, "Be careful on the road. Don't push yourself, and listen to Kakashi-sensei. I heard you're leaving the village this time? It's not like being here. You'll have to keep your guard up, even when you eat and sleep."
"Okay." Hayashi nodded obediently.
"And tie your hair back when it