001 This world is crazy, and I’m just a hired ninja

Another graduation season had arrived. 

The ninja school at the foot of Hokage Rock was buzzing with activity as it prepared for one of its busiest days: the graduation assessment for new ninjas. 

Pass the test, and they would fulfill their dream of becoming a ninja. Fail, and they'd be sent back to try again next year.

For these eager, energetic kids, becoming a ninja was their ultimate goal.

Meanwhile, at the school, the Third Hokage was giving one of his famously long speeches.

"Where the leaves of the tree dance, so does the fire. That fire will continue to light the village, allowing new leaves to sprout."

"Today is your graduation assessment. I hope each of you will grow into a towering tree that protects Konoha, or become a flame that lights the path forward for the village."

Everyone—teachers, students, and those nearby—listened attentively to the Third Hokage's speech, taking his words very seriously

After all, the Third Hokage was the leader who guided them through the Second Ninja World War. His words embodied Konoha's will to move forward.

But not for Hanyu Simu.

At just twelve years old, Simu stood out in a white robe, looking a bit out of place. His body wasn't particularly muscular, and the long robe seemed a little ill-fitting on him.

Especially with the word "Justice" written on the back of his robe.

Simu sat slouched in his chair, hands in his pockets, a pair of sunglasses on his face, and a piece of grass in his mouth, looking completely bored.

While others admired the Third Hokage with great reverence, he felt differently.

As a time traveler, Simu couldn't bring himself to admire the Third Hokage.

Knowing the future, he was well aware that the old man, while appearing easy-going, was actually weak inside. 

Politically, he was often swayed by the advisory group and Danzo, leading to many poor decisions.

He even let his disciple Orochimaru go free because of personal feelings, which ultimately brought devastating consequences to Konoha.

Of course, the reason Simu remained so carefree was his cheat ability.

Beneath his sunglasses, a sudden glint flashed in his eyes.

"The character simulation system has been activated."

"Current simulated character: Borsalino."

"Imitation value: 19%."

"Current ability unlocked: [Marine Six Styles]."

That's right, the character Simu was imitating was none other than Marine Admiral Kizaru from the One Piece world.

If not for the strong objections from the orphanage director, Simu would have even changed his name to Borsalino.

"Simu, the Third Hokage is speaking. Can't you be a little more serious?" a golden-haired boy leaned over.

Simu turned to see a strikingly handsome young man beside him.

The boy was none other than Namikaze Minato, the future Fourth Hokage, now known as a prodigy at the ninja school.

It had been a year since Simu arrived in this world, and during that time, he had become good friends with the future Hokage.

"Hey, it's no big deal," Simu replied, hands still in his pockets, looking indifferent, as if he couldn't be bothered with anything.

He looked like a middle-aged, worn-out uncle, beaten down by life to the point of losing all confidence.

It was through this deep-rooted imitation that Simu managed to increase his imitation value to 19% in just three years. 

He was now only one step away from reaching 20%.

Every 10% allowed him to enter a lottery, with the prize being an immediate ability from Kizaru. Last time, Simu won the Marine Six Styles.

"You really have no fighting spirit," Minato said with a wry smile. 

But that was just how Simu always was.

"Damn it, Simu! You need to cheer up! We're going to be Hokage!" an annoyed voice exclaimed. 

Simu turned to see Kushina, her red hair flowing as she excitedly shared her dream of becoming Hokage.

He looked up at the sky and scratched his head, feeling a mix of amusement and frustration.

"Hey, that's your dream, not mine. I don't want to be Hokage."

Was it worth becoming a ninja just to spend his days doing nothing? 

Simu thought to himself that fishing was what truly made him stronger.

Suddenly, Kushina grabbed Simu by the collar.

"You stubborn guy! Don't think I don't know how strong you are. You should show it!" Kushina said, glaring at him with determination.

Simu remained unfazed. "It doesn't matter."

Kushina's frustration grew. Among her classmates, only Minato and Simu were recognized as real opponents in her eyes.

As a result, Simu looked like he was dying, which was really annoying.

Seeing this, Minato stepped in to calm her down. "Alright, alright, Kushina. Simu has his own ideas, so let's not interrupt the Third Hokage's speech."

Minato was as understanding as ever, and Simu let out a sigh of relief. 

He reminded himself that he must stay true to his own personality!

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TO BE CONTINUED

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New chapter, New journey, hope you guys love it!