"Reporting to Hokage-sama, the other seven will not be participating in this mission due to illness," Number One replied with the words he had already thought of on the way.

"Really? Well, I have high hopes for you guys. I even found this mission specifically for you."

After hearing Number One's answer, the Third Hokage stopped thinking about it and casually handed him a prepared scroll.

Number One stepped forward and took the scroll. He then walked out of the office with Gu Changqing, who had been silent since entering and acted as if no one was there. After leaving, Number One slowly closed the door.

Number One opens the scroll.

"Rank B Mission: Eliminate the Black Mountain Bandits. The Black Mountain Bandits frequently plunder nearby villages and passing caravans. The merchant has issued a mission to the Hidden Village of the Hidden Shadows, indicating that the bandit leader's strength is suspected to be that of a Jonin. Those below Jonin level should proceed with caution."

After listening to Number One's explanation, Gu Chang didn't think much of it. "I'll leave this mission to you. These mortal forces are too boring. I'm more interested in the Akatsuki organization you mentioned. The Rinnegan, you know, has the power to revive the dead, something many sages can't do."

Upon hearing Gu Changqing's words, Number One respectfully replied...

"Yes, Your Majesty."

After saying that, he drew a map from Konoha to the Land of Rain based on his memory and respectfully handed it to Gu Changqing.

"Okay, go ahead," Gu Changqing said calmly.

Gu Changqing watched Number One walk away and saw the lively scenes on the streets of Hokage Village.

Gu Changqing frowned slightly. He thought, "This world, where people with extraordinary powers still have to rely on ordinary people, is truly filthy."

To Gu Changqing, these ordinary people without any power were nothing more than slaves. Why would someone with extraordinary power risk their life to protect them?