The multiverse harem: the travelers desire

The early morning mist blanketed the training grounds as Ethan awoke. His body ached slightly from the previous day's battle, but it was a good pain—a reminder of progress. He stretched and looked around. Hinata was already awake, practicing her movements with a serene determination.

"Morning," Ethan called, rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

Hinata stopped mid-strike, her cheeks flushing lightly. "Good morning, Ethan. Did you sleep well?"

"Well enough," he replied, walking over. "You're up early again. It's impressive how hard you work."

Hinata gave a shy smile, brushing a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "I want to be stronger... so I can protect the people I care about."

Ethan admired her resolve. He couldn't help but feel a growing respect for her. But before he could say anything more, the system's voice rang in his head.

"New mission: Strengthen your connection with key figures in this world. Build alliances to increase influence and power. First target: Naruto Uzumaki. Reward: Enhanced stamina and skill synchronization."

Ethan smirked. "Looks like I've got my work cut out for me today," he muttered under his breath.

"What was that?" Hinata asked, tilting her head.

"Nothing," Ethan said quickly. "Hey, how about we take a break today and check out the village? I think it's time we met some of your friends."

---

Meeting Naruto

The streets of Konoha buzzed with life. Vendors called out to passersby, children ran through the streets laughing, and shinobi darted between buildings on various missions. Ethan marveled at how lively it all was, even though he had seen it countless times on a screen.

As they wandered, Hinata led him to Ichiraku Ramen, a small stand tucked away in a side street. The moment they entered, a familiar voice greeted them.

"Hinata! Hey, good to see you!"

Naruto Uzumaki grinned, waving enthusiastically from his seat at the counter. Ethan's heart raced. Meeting Naruto in person felt surreal, but he quickly composed himself.

"Hi, Naruto," Hinata said softly, her cheeks turning pink.

Naruto's eyes flicked to Ethan, his grin widening. "And who's this guy? Haven't seen you around before."

Ethan stepped forward, extending a hand. "Name's Ethan. I'm new in town, just trying to find my place here. Hinata's been kind enough to show me around."

Naruto shook his hand firmly, his energy almost overwhelming. "Nice to meet you! Anyone Hinata trusts is good in my book. Let me tell you, though, Konoha's a pretty wild place. You sure you're ready for it?"

Ethan chuckled. "I think I can handle it."

---

A Test of Will

As they ate, Naruto launched into one of his animated stories about his dream of becoming Hokage. Ethan listened intently, knowing the importance of earning Naruto's trust and friendship.

But the moment of peace didn't last long. A loud crash echoed from outside, followed by screams.

Ethan and Naruto bolted from their seats, with Hinata close behind. Down the street, a group of thugs was terrorizing a merchant, smashing his cart and stealing supplies.

"Not on my watch!" Naruto shouted, rushing forward without hesitation.

Ethan followed, the system already chiming in his head.

"Mission update: Assist Naruto in resolving the conflict. Reward: Increased affinity with Naruto Uzumaki and Hinata Hyuga."

The thugs turned, sneering at the approaching trio. "What's this? A couple of kids think they can stop us?"

Naruto didn't hesitate. "Shadow Clone Jutsu!" he shouted, creating a handful of clones that charged the group.

Ethan admired Naruto's fearless energy but noticed the thugs weren't ordinary. Their movements were too precise, their coordination too tight. They weren't just common street thugs—they were trained.

"Hinata, back him up!" Ethan shouted, stepping into the fray himself.

---

The Fight

Ethan focused on one of the attackers, his body moving instinctively thanks to the system's enhancements. His strikes were swift and precise, forcing the thug on the defensive.

Nearby, Hinata used her Byakugan to pinpoint weak spots in her opponent's stance. Her gentle fists landed with precision, disrupting the flow of chakra in her target.

Naruto, meanwhile, was a whirlwind of energy, his clones overwhelming the remaining attackers. But just as they seemed to have the upper hand, one of the thugs revealed a small explosive tag, aiming to throw it into the crowd of bystanders.

"Ethan!" Hinata screamed.

Ethan reacted instantly, sprinting toward the thug and tackling him before the tag could be thrown. The explosion went off harmlessly in the air, and Ethan managed to subdue the attacker with a final punch.

---

Aftermath

The crowd erupted into cheers as the last of the thugs was taken down. The merchant thanked them profusely, bowing repeatedly. Naruto, beaming with pride, clapped Ethan on the back.

"Man, you're pretty good in a fight! You should think about joining the ninja academy or something," Naruto said.

Ethan laughed, though the thought did intrigue him. "Maybe one day."

Hinata approached, her eyes full of concern. "Are you okay, Ethan? That was really dangerous."

"I'm fine," Ethan assured her, smiling. "Thanks to you two, we handled it."

The system's voice rang in his head.

"Mission complete. Affection level with Naruto Uzumaki: 15%. Affection level with Hinata Hyuga: 40%. Reward: Enhanced stamina and combat reflexes."

Ethan felt the surge of energy coursing through him. He was growing stronger, but more importantly, he was building connections.

---

A Growing Team

As the sun set, the three of them sat on a rooftop overlooking the village. Naruto was animated as ever, talking about his plans for tomorrow, while Hinata listened quietly, occasionally sneaking glances at Ethan.

Ethan leaned back, watching the horizon. This world was becoming more real to him by the day. The bonds he was forming felt genuine, and the power he was gaining came with a sense of responsibility.

But he couldn't forget the system's ultimate goal. The multiverse awaited, and this was only the first step.

For now, though, he would focus on the people around him. They were more than just allies—they were becoming friends.

---

End of Chapter 3