Chapter 97: Ready Player Two Pt. I
Jasper couldn't stand another minute in this stuffy, old missions center.
He sat across from Homura and Koharu, the two elders of the village, their stern gazes fixed on documents of him.
The Hokage's Manor was often a place of immense pressure for ninjas in trouble. Yet Jasper wasn't here to be reprimanded. He crossed his arms, leaning back in his chair, trying to project an air of nonchalance.
Homura, the elder with the sharpest eyes, broke the silence and said, "We've received reports about your behaviour."
Jasper could practically hear the disapproval in the elder's tone. He raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise, and asked, "Really? And what exactly have I done?"
Koharu, the elder with a softer demeanour, cleared her throat and answered, "It has been brought to our attention that you have been less than respectful to your seniors and fellow ninjas."
Jasper scoffed and replied, "It's to toughen them up. Can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs, right?"
Homura and Koharu exchanged a glance, their expressions unreadable. After a long moment of silence, Homura spoke in a flat voice, "Effective immediately, you are promoted to Chūnin. Use this as an opportunity to let the others see you in a new light."
Jasper sat up straighter with a smirk. He muttered under his breath saying, "About time..."
A flak jacket was placed before him as Koharu explained, "This is a symbol of your new rank."
Jasper declined the offer with a wave of his hand and said in an arrogant tone, "I don't need that. It's optional."