In a village located a moderate distance from Konoha, Kurogane Ren stood wearing a mask. In front of him, several figures knelt on one knee. These were his subordinates, not shinobi, but rather physically strong ordinary people.
Although it might seem from the original story that ninja were everywhere, that impression only came from focusing on hidden villages. In reality, shinobi were a scarce resource. Deploying actual ninja would significantly increase the risk of exposure, and at this stage, Kurogane Ren could not afford to reveal himself.
"My lord, this is the report for your recent assignment. Everything has been handled. These are the earnings as well. Please review them," the leader said respectfully.
"Mm."
Kurogane Ren accepted the ledger and scanned the entries. A satisfied glint appeared in his eyes as he casually took the majority of the funds.
"You can divide the rest among yourselves," he said, his voice deliberately altered into an androgynous tone.
"Thank you, my lord!" The leader's face lit up with joy. Even after Kurogane Ren took most of it, the remaining amount was still substantial for them.
More importantly, they knew exactly how this money had been earned. Without Kurogane Ren's backing, they wouldn't have been able to obtain any of it.
Of course, humans were greedy. No one didn't want more. But they didn't dare act on it.
If it were only about strength, they might have tried to take the money and run. But the memory of that excruciating pain made their bodies break out in cold sweat. They would rather die than experience it again.
Kurogane Ren nodded, gave a few instructions for them to continue their operations, and then left.
He had no interest in winning hearts. His method was borrowed from techniques described in Jin Yong's novels, specifically the Life-and-Death Talisman used by the Tianshan Child Elder. The difference was that he achieved the same effect through sealing techniques rather than martial arts.
Even so, it wasn't foolproof.
That was why, unknown to them, a crow constantly watched over them, ensuring no one attempted to break the seal.
Kurogane Ren had confidence in his sealing techniques. Among those he knew, only Uzumaki Kushina and Namikaze Minato could likely undo his seals.
But who could guarantee there weren't other sealing experts in the world?
Precautions were necessary.
...
Konoha, Hokage's Office.
"Oh, the mission was completed flawlessly." The Third Hokage looked at the report scroll with a smile.
"I was fortunate," Kurogane Ren replied modestly as he stood before the desk.
Not every ninja needed the Hokage's personal confirmation after completing a mission, but as a Tokubetsu Jonin, Kurogane Ren had that privilege. While such ninja were considered elite cannon fodder on the battlefield, within the village they were still regarded as highly capable individuals.
"Now that this mission is done, are you going to lock yourself away again to study sealing techniques?" the Third Hokage asked with a chuckle.
"Yes." Kurogane Ren nodded. This was the persona he had established in Konoha—a reclusive fanatic devoted to sealing arts.
The Hokage showed a knowing expression. Most people in the village were aware that Kurogane Ren's life revolved around two things: taking missions when he needed funds, and isolating himself to research sealing techniques once he had them.
The Hokage didn't press further. Kurogane Ren contributed steadily through missions, and as something of a workaholic, he was worth a bit of encouragement.
The Hokage stamped the mission scroll, officially marking its completion.
Just as Kurogane Ren was about to leave, the door opened and someone entered.
The man wore the standard jonin green flak jacket, with blond hair and clear blue eyes.
It was none other than the future Fourth Hokage—Namikaze Minato.
"Lord Hokage, you called for me?" Minato asked as he stepped beside Kurogane Ren, offering him a polite nod.
Kurogane Ren returned the gesture, slightly surprised to encounter him here.
"Oh, Minato, I almost forgot I summoned you." The Third Hokage exhaled a cloud of smoke and chuckled, then seemed to recall something.
"Ren, Minato is also highly skilled in sealing techniques. You shouldn't always work in isolation. Exchanging ideas with others might help you improve faster."
"I understand." Kurogane Ren nodded, his expression calm.
Minato looked at him with curiosity. He had heard of Kurogane Ren before—a peculiar man obsessed with sealing arts.
"Senior Kurogane Ren, I hope we can exchange knowledge on sealing techniques sometime," Minato said with a warm smile.
"Mm… sure. Though I don't quite deserve to be called 'senior,'" Kurogane Ren replied, glancing at him. That bright, sincere smile… it was impossible to dislike.
In truth, Kurogane Ren was only a few years older. In rank, Minato was already a jonin. In terms of strength…
Even after fusing with Uzumaki bloodline, Kurogane Ren knew he was no match for Minato.
And yet, Minato still addressed him as "senior."
No wonder his reputation and popularity were so high.
"Well, I've heard about you for a long time, Senior—the sealing technique fanatic. I've always wanted to visit and learn from you, but never had the chance," Minato said casually.
"Then we can discuss it when there's time," Kurogane Ren replied. Since Minato insisted, he wouldn't refuse.
Truthfully, he felt a bit pleased. Being called "senior" by someone admired by so many… it wasn't a bad feeling.
After all, who disliked a bit of respect?
"Heh, you can talk about that later," the Third Hokage said, tossing a scroll to Minato. "Minato, I've called you here for a mission. It's S-rank, and at the moment, you're the most suitable candidate."
Minato nodded. This wasn't his first S-rank mission.
Kurogane Ren paused slightly, then shook his head inwardly. The gap was obvious. He could handle A-rank missions at best, but S-rank missions? He had never completed one alone.
"Lord Hokage, Minato-sama, I'll take my leave."
With their approval, Kurogane Ren exited the office. The Hokage would likely brief Minato on the details of the mission next, and it wasn't appropriate for him to remain.