Chapter 80 is truly Yoriichi (a three-in-one compilation including...)
Time flies, like a white horse galloping past a crack in the wall. In the blink of an eye, eight years have passed in a flash.
The baby born in the Senju clan's territory years ago has now reached the age where he can run and practice ninjutsu. And the tide of time, guided by someone's powerful will, is surging in an unprecedented direction.
That year, the once-powerful Madara Uchiha and Hashirama Senju had reached the age of forty.
Uchiha Izuna was thirty-eight years old, the prime of his ninja experience and energy.
Uchiha Kokusatsu, who changed the world's landscape, has also entered his thirties. At thirty, his influence is paramount.
On the surface, the five great nations of fire, wind, earth, lightning, and water still coexist. However, behind the veil of power, the true ruler has changed: Uchiha Kokusatsu. This name, like an invisible network, hangs over the entire ninja world.
His will, through a series of far-reaching reforms, has permeated every corner of the world.
Under Yan Sheng's strong leadership, the wars and feuds that had lasted for countless years almost disappeared. Ninjas no longer easily turned against each other, and the days when one could be killed by unknown ninjutsu while walking on the street were gone forever.
The most significant changes were felt by the vast majority of ordinary people: they were finally able to escape the shadow of fear and, through their own labor, obtain a stable life with enough to eat and wear. This was a dream that countless people longed for but could never achieve in the past.
Traveling throughout the ninja world, one striking sight is that statues of Uchiha Kokusatsu often stand in bustling town centers or remote village squares.
These statues are either tall and imposing, gazing into the distance, or clad in armor, exuding an aura of authority without anger.
This was not because Yan Sheng himself was ambitious, but rather because of a sudden inspiration from Uchiha Masaki, a rising star of the Uchiha clan who was also full of talent in the political arena.
—Yasuki keenly realized that this was an excellent way to promote the prestige of the Uchiha clan, while also deeply embedding Lord Kokusatsu's achievements and image in people's hearts and consolidating his rule.
Thus, statues were erected, serving not only as landmarks but also as symbols, silently telling the story of who created the current order and who safeguards the current peace.
Over the years, Uchiha Izuna had come to fully understand the earth-shattering feat his younger brother was undertaking. His feelings were quite complex, a mixture of pride and a touch of indescribable frustration.
He often felt that he was caught in the middle: above him was his older brother, whose fighting skills were off the charts and who could crush everything, and below him was his younger brother, whose political skills were superb and who could turn the world upside down with a flick of his wrist.
This second-in-command of the Uchiha clan, renowned for his wisdom and loyalty, found himself in a rather awkward position, neither here nor there...
It is worth mentioning that Izuna was fully aware of and absolutely supported Uchiha Masaki's large-scale erection of statues for Kokusatsu.
He had no reason to stop anything that was beneficial to the Uchiha clan or his brother's rule; he would only push it forward with all his might.
When Tobirama Senju realized what was happening, he was shocked to find that the Senju clan had fallen into a disadvantageous position in the new power structure of the ninja world.
Faced with the immense prestige and influence brought by the Uchiha clan through Kokusatsu, the Senju second-in-command, known for his wisdom, couldn't help but feel a pang of envy and jealousy: If only my parents had given me a younger brother or sister like Uchiha Kokusatsu... no, even just half his abilities.
Of course, this was just a fleeting thought that Tobirama had between his heavy official duties and family plans.
After all, he knew very well that, not to mention that his parents were no longer alive, even if he did give birth, no one could say for sure whether the child would be a "spiritual pill" that could turn the tide or a "demon pill" that would bring trouble.
—Having an older brother who constantly causes him trouble is enough; he doesn't need another younger one who creates trouble too.==#
That being said...
The "Hidden Leaf Village," jointly founded by the Senju and Uchiha clans, officially stepped onto the historical stage a few years ago and has flourished at a speed that exceeded everyone's expectations.
Those ninja clans who were among the first to respond to the call and join Konoha are now all grateful for their "foresight." Seeing Konoha's current prosperity and stability, and its central position in the new ninja world order, countless later ninja clans are desperate to join, only to find that they have already missed the best opportunity, and the entry requirements have risen considerably.
......
Yan Sheng's reforms were concrete and far-reaching, and they have truly changed the lives of countless ordinary people.
First, he established the "Metropolitan Police Department," which was directly under his ruling core: this agency was independent of the original security systems of the major countries and possessed strong law enforcement powers and a highly capable team.
The main duties of the Metropolitan Police Department are to crack down on local gangs and evil forces, eliminate bandits and outlaws, and deal with ninjas who act recklessly by relying on their power.
In the past, ordinary people often had no recourse when oppressed by such forces. Now, as long as they report to the Metropolitan Police Department, they will receive a prompt response and a solution. As a result, the security situation in various places has fundamentally improved, trade routes are unimpeded, and in some areas, leaving doors unlocked at night has even become a reality.
Secondly, Yan Sheng clearly promulgated and forcefully enforced an ironclad rule: ninjas must not harm civilians at will, nor destroy their property without cause.
This rule was initially questioned by some ninjas who were used to the supremacy of strength, but after several violators were eliminated by the forces under Yan Sheng with swift and decisive measures, no one dared to cross the line again.
The common people no longer had to be afraid of ninjas as they used to be, and they began to dare to have normal conversations and trades with law-abiding ninjas.
On the foundations of the economy—agriculture and people's livelihood—Yan Sheng also implemented effective reforms—thankfully, this world doesn't follow science, so many ninja techniques can be applied to daily life.
He promoted more advanced farming techniques combined with ninjutsu; constructed irrigation systems; and built large granaries to stabilize prices and cope with famine...
At the same time, it encourages the development of handicrafts and commerce, and establishes relatively fair trade rules.
In the past, commoners would work hard all year, but most of their earnings would be exploited by nobles, and they often faced the prospect of losing everything due to war.
Today, under a strict order, exploitation is limited to reasonable limits, and a peaceful environment ensures the continuation of production.
People discovered that as long as they worked hard, the grain they harvested, after paying the taxes, was enough to feed their families; the cloth they wove, besides being used to buy necessities, also provided money for new clothes. Their faces were no longer pale and numb, but gradually regained their rosy hue and anticipation for the future.
Overall, under Yan Sheng's rule, the ninja world is steadily progressing towards a state of order and prosperity. Although undercurrents may still be swirling in some corners, for the vast majority of people on this land, this is an unprecedented and precious era.
This period was later known as the Era of Peace.
...
...
The rumor that the Senju clan had produced a genius no less than Hashirama Senju had spread like wildfire throughout Konoha, becoming the most popular topic of conversation among the villagers. However, by the time this news finally reached Uchiha Kokusatsu's ears, it was already too late.
In fact, if Madara Uchiha and Hashirama Senju hadn't spent eight years tracking and planning, finally capturing Black Zetsu, and casually mentioned it when they came to "deliver the mission" to Mikatsu, Mikatsu would probably still be completely unaware of this matter.
...
This is not surprising.
On one hand, Yan Sheng had not returned to Konoha for a long time; on the other hand, for his intelligence system, news of a talented junior emerging from a certain ninja clan, even if that clan was the Senju, would not be screened out and presented to him unless it had special value or potential threat.
Furthermore, in Yan Sheng's eyes, the title of "genius" was hardly a significant matter, given his extensive experience with exceptionally talented individuals.
"...So, that guy's methods of concealment are indeed bizarre. If we hadn't joined forces to set a trap, it would have been much more difficult." Madara briefly reported the capture of Black Zetsu, his tone calm. Then, he changed the subject slightly, a hint of barely perceptible teasing in his voice, and looked at Hashirama Senju beside him: "Is this why you were in such a hurry to return to the Senju clan's base yesterday? You wasted a whole day."
Originally, they had successfully sealed Black Zetsu the day before and could have come directly to report. However, Hashirama insisted on returning to Konoha and his home first, saying he had important business to attend to, and thus postponed his trip by a day.
Upon hearing this, Hashirama Senju's usually cheerful face broke into an even wider grin, almost reaching his ears.
He scratched the back of his head and chuckled, "It's all because of Tobirama! He used the emergency communication system, saying he had important news that needed to be shared in person and told me to return immediately. I thought something terrible had happened in the clan or village, so I rushed back..." He paused, his smile widening with a hint of pride, "But when I got back, I heard the news. Although Tobirama made a bit of a fuss, it really is a big deal for our Senju clan!"
His hands were clasped together, his body swayed slightly, revealing a girlish and charming demeanor, which made Uchiha Madara next to him shudder and look away in disgust.
"Hmph, look at your pathetic self." Madara snorted coldly, but knowing Hashirama as well as he did, he knew that for Hashirama to praise him like this, this kid was probably no ordinary talent. This piqued his interest, and he raised an eyebrow, asking with great interest, "What's that kid's name that you value so much?"
Hashirama straightened his chest, his voice booming with undisguised pride in his family: "Yoichi, that child's name is Senju Yoriichi! He's only eight years old this year, and he's already defeated an elite Jonin. Come to think of it, his birthday is the same day as Mikoto's."
"Cough cough—!"
Yan Sheng, who had been standing to the side with an indifferent expression, suddenly coughed violently the moment he heard the name "Yoichi," interrupting their conversation.
Madara and Hashirama immediately turned their gazes to him, their eyes filled with doubt and inquiry.
Yan Sheng raised his hand to cover his mouth, forcefully suppressing the discomfort in his throat and the violent turmoil surging within him. He took a deep breath, barely managing to calm his voice, though it was noticeably lower and more rapid than before:
"I...I'm fine." He waved his hand, not wanting to say more, and then quickly steered the conversation back to business, implying that he wanted to end the meeting as soon as possible. "You've worked hard to capture Black Zetsu. I'll take care of the follow-up matters. You...go back and rest."
Ban's deep gaze lingered for a moment on Yan Sheng's slightly hasty attempt to conceal his true feelings, sharp enough to pierce through any pretense—he keenly caught that fleeting moment of lapse in composure in Yan Sheng, something extremely rare in his unfathomable younger brother.
Although Hashirama wasn't as perceptive as Madara, he noticed Yan Sheng's sudden change in demeanor. However, he didn't think too much about it and said with concern, "Yan Sheng, you need to take care of your health and not overwork yourself."
Yan Sheng did not respond, but simply nodded slightly, indicating that they could leave.
Once Madara and Hashirama's figures had completely disappeared outside the hall, the heavy doors slowly closed, shutting out the light and sound from the outside world, and the hall returned to that almost frozen silence.
Yan Sheng sat alone in the shadows on a high-backed chair, the turmoil he had previously suppressed churning within him once more.
He slowly closed his eyes, his fingertips unconsciously tapping the hard armrest, producing a rhythmic and muffled tapping sound that echoed in the empty hall.
Senju Yoriichi...
Yoriichi...
This name, like a long-sealed key, unexpectedly unlocked a door to his heart that he thought had been completely sealed off.
Behind the door lies the scorching, suffocating crimson flame of karma deep within distant memories; it is the silhouette that he once devoted everything to, pursued his entire life, yet could never reach; it is the complex emotion deeply rooted in his soul, transcending reincarnation and the world...
Is it a coincidence?
At this point in time, a child named Yoriichi appeared in the Senju clan and was hailed as a genius "no less than Hashirama Senju".
Is there really such a coincidence in the world?
He remained silent for a long time, so long that the light in the hall seemed to dim.
Finally, he let out a sigh of relief and made a decision—he would go and meet this "Senju Yoriichi" in person.
Yan Sheng was always decisive and efficient. He quickly completed the approvals for several urgent government matters at hand, and then summoned Uchiha Masaki.
"I will be leaving for a few days," Yan Sheng said succinctly, without specifying his destination. "During this time, you will temporarily handle all matters. Unless it is an urgent or important matter, you do not need to report to me."
A hint of surprise flashed in Uchiha Masaki's eyes, but he didn't ask any further questions. He simply bowed his head respectfully and said, "Yes."
After confirming that everything was arranged properly and ensuring that his brief departure would not cause any unnecessary disturbance, Yan Sheng quietly left the mansion that symbolized the highest power in the ninja world. His figure transformed into an invisible stream of light and sped towards Konoha.
***
Konoha Village radiates vitality under the sunlight.
The Senju and Uchiha clans, two families that had fought endlessly, had their clan territories located on the north and south sides of the village, respectively, like two silent giants facing each other.
Although the two tribes have formed an alliance and jointly established this village, the blood debts and estrangement left by the long war cannot be completely erased in just a few years. Within both tribes, many people, especially the older generation who experienced the brutal war, still harbor deep-seated prejudices and wariness towards each other.
However, the younger generation, especially children who are still unaware of the complexities of the world, live in a much simpler and more harmonious world. While it may be difficult to find members of other tribes deep within their territory, children wearing different tribal insignia can often be seen playing and frolicking together on the borders of their tribes, on the village's public roads, and in training grounds.
A spirited Senju girl with a ponytail is chasing and playing with an Uchiha girl with a Hime-style hairstyle and a slightly proud expression on the village's public road.
They laughed and ran, seemingly in a simple race. Suddenly, the little girl with a thousand hands tripped over a protruding rock, cried out "Ouch!" and lost her balance, falling forward into an area littered with sharp pebbles.
The Uchiha girl's eyes widened in astonishment, and she instinctively reached out to grab him, but it was too late.
Just as the little girl with a thousand hands was about to fall into the pile of rubble, a figure appeared silently beside her. The newcomer did not make any obvious movements, but simply flicked his sleeve, and a gentle yet irresistible force supported the little girl's unbalanced body, allowing her to stand steadily. At the same time, an invisible wave of air pushed away all the sharp rubble, clearing a safe area.
The two little girls were stunned, staring in shock at the person who had suddenly appeared: a man dressed in dark casual clothes, tall and straight, with a cold and aloof demeanor, his long black hair casually tied back, revealing a face with distinct features and extremely handsome.
"Thank you, thank you!" The little girl with the thousand hands was the first to come to her senses, her face slightly flushed, and she quickly bowed to express her gratitude.
She looked up, secretly sizing up her savior, her eyes suddenly lighting up. She tugged at the sleeve of the Uchiha girl beside her and whispered, barely able to contain her excitement, "Wow! What a handsome big brother! He looks...he looks like someone from your Uchiha clan! Is he from your Uchiha clan? Do you know him?"
The Uchiha girl blinked her big, dark eyes in confusion, looked at Yan Sheng carefully, and then shook her head blankly: "I don't know him. I've never seen him in the clan."
This is not surprising.
In fact, even today, a considerable number of people in the Uchiha clan, especially young children and some ordinary clan members who are detached from worldly affairs and focused only on their own small families, do not know Uchiha Kokusatsu.
Most of them only knew that the clan leader, Uchiha Madara, had a younger brother who was said to be "weak and sickly" and had not made a public appearance for many years. Some even speculated in private that he might have already died.
There is no statue of Yan Sheng in Konoha Village. As for those who know Yan Sheng's true identity and status, they are mostly young elites active in the village and clan management. They rarely publicize it within their clans, either out of awe or by following some tacit understanding.
Yan Sheng didn't pay attention to the conversation between the two little girls. He just glanced at them and, after confirming that they were alright, turned around and continued walking towards the Thousand Hands Clan's territory.
......
The land of the Thousand Hands Clan.
Yan Sheng's striking resemblance to Uchiha Madara made him stand out like a beacon in the darkness to the Senju clan members. Therefore, he was stopped by two Senju clan members on guard duty shortly after entering the Senju territory.
One of them, with a serious expression and obvious wariness, said in a deep voice, "Sir Uchiha, please wait. This is Senju clan territory. May I ask what brings you here?"
When Tobirama Senju received the urgent message from his clansmen, he was processing documents in the Hokage's residence. Upon hearing that "an Uchiha man who looks remarkably like Madara Uchiha has broken into the clan's territory," his mind went blank, and almost instantly, all the worst possibilities came to mind.
First of all, given his resemblance to Madara Uchiha, he is undoubtedly Madara's legendary younger brother. Why legendary? Because Tobirama Senju never saw him!
So why would Uchiha Kokusatsu suddenly "visit" the Senju clan? What could the Senju clan possibly have that would attract him? His older brother never said Kokusatsu would come.
In Tobirama's mind, this behind-the-scenes controller was a deep and unpredictable person, and he regarded him as Izuna ProMax 2.0.
What Madara wouldn't stoop to, this Izuna ProMax 2.0 might also disdain. His sudden appearance, targeting Senju, definitely has a purpose... Could it be that he's after Yoriichi?
Is it fear that the Senju clan might produce another powerful figure of similar stature, threatening his rule, or is he trying to nip a potential threat in the bud? Or perhaps... what kind of scheme is the Uchiha clan plotting this time?
Countless bloody and dark images flashed rapidly through Tobirama's mind.
He stood up abruptly, instantly activated the Flying Thunder God Technique, and his figure vanished into thin air.
Relying on his ultimate perception of the Flying Thunder God Mark left in his family's territory, Tobirama forcibly compressed the teleportation time and rushed back at top speed.
Upon landing, he even felt a slight dizziness due to the violent fluctuations in spatial energy. But he couldn't care less about that. His powerful senses instantly spread out, locking onto Yoriichi's location. At the same time, his hands had already quietly formed several hand seals for offensive ninjutsu, his chakra ready to be unleashed, prepared to face the worst-case scenario he envisioned—for example, Uchiha Kokusatsu attacking Yoriichi, his clansmen lying dead on the ground, or the child already...
He rushed into the small courtyard like a gust of wind, shouting sharply, "Uchiha Kokusatsu! What do you want to do—"
The sound stopped abruptly.
The scene before him was completely different from, even the opposite of, all the "worst-case scenarios" he had anticipated.
The sun was shining brightly in the courtyard, and a gentle breeze was blowing.
The genius on whom their clan placed their hopes, the Senju Yoriichi who was usually extremely aloof from everyone and immersed in his own world, was now following closely behind Uchiha Kokusatsu.
The anticipated tension and bloodshed did not materialize at all. Instead, there was an almost eerie harmony.
Let's rewind to ten minutes ago.
When Yan Sheng was stopped by two wary Thousand Hands clansmen, before he could even state his identity and purpose, a small figure happened to walk out from the nearby training ground.
Senju Yoriichi had just finished his morning basic training, and fine beads of sweat still clung to his forehead. He habitually looked up, his gaze sweeping over the crowd at the entrance to the clan's territory, before settling precisely on the tall, imposing figure in black who had been stopped.
The moment Yoriichi saw Yan Sheng's profile, he felt as if his heart had been suddenly clenched by something, and then began to pound uncontrollably, the "thump thump thump" sound vibrating in his eardrums.
All the sounds and sights around him seemed to blur and disappear in an instant, leaving only the figure of that person in his vision.
It was an attraction and a thrill that came from the depths of the soul, inexplicable by reason. It was unfamiliar, yet it carried a familiarity that seemed to have transcended a long period of time, a familiarity that brought tears to one's eyes.
He took a step and ran towards the figure completely instinctively.
Ignoring the two clansmen uncles who tried to stop him, he walked straight up to Yan Sheng, then raised his head and stared at Yan Sheng with his clear eyes, which seemed to reflect the essence of the world.
Yan Sheng also looked down at him.
Their eyes met.
For a moment, Yan Sheng's heart also trembled slightly.
This child... although he did not resemble the person in his memory, the distinct features of the Senju clan were clearly visible.
However, those eyes... that pure, focused gaze that seemed to penetrate all appearances and see straight to the essence... and that intangible "aura" that emanated from them all overlapped with that figure deep in his memory.
"You..." Yan Shenggang was about to say something.
Yoriichi then reached out his small hand and carefully tugged at the corner of Kokushibo's sleeve, which was hanging at his side. He didn't use any force, just held it gently, as if afraid he would disappear. Then, in a soft, affectionate voice, without any guardedness, he asked:
"Who are you? You... are like the sun."
These words stunned the Thousand Hands clan members who were all on high alert.
The sun? What connection do the Uchiha clan members, especially this man who looks even colder than Madara Uchiha, have with the word "sun"?
Yan Sheng was slightly taken aback by this unexpected evaluation. He looked into Yoriichi's pure, unadulterated eyes, which held only curiosity, closeness, and an incomprehensible, complete trust.
"My name is Uchiha Kokusatsu." He finally gave his name.
“Yan Sheng…” Yoriichi repeated softly, then a faint smile appeared on his face. “What a nice name. My name is Yoriichi.”
What happened next was completely unexpected.
Yoriichi became completely "sticky" to Yan Sheng. He held tightly to Yan Sheng's sleeve and followed him closely, whether Yan Sheng stood still or tried to move a few steps, he followed like a little tail.
Some clansmen tried to pull Yoriichi back, fearing he would anger this dangerous person, but although Yoriichi didn't make a fuss, he was unusually stubborn and refused to let go, looking at Gensho with his big eyes as if silently begging him not to leave.
Several Senju clan members responsible for looking after Yoriichi were pacing anxiously, sweat beading on their foreheads. They dared not use force against Yoriichi, much less do anything rashly to Uchiha Kokusatsu. They could only stand helplessly by his side, forcing smiles and saying weak and feeble things like, "Yoriichi, let go, don't bother him..." and "Sorry, this child isn't usually like this..."
What terrified them even more was that, despite his expression remaining blank, Yan Sheng showed no sign of anger towards Yoriichi's almost offensive gesture of closeness. He didn't shake off Yoriichi's hand, but simply let him hold it, his deep gaze fixed on Yoriichi, carrying a complex scrutiny that others couldn't comprehend.
So when Tobirama Senju rushed over, this was the scene he saw: the Senju clan's genius was clinging to Uchiha Mikatsu like a little animal that had found its master, while several clansmen were anxiously scratching their heads. The scene was both "warm" and... eerie.
Tobirama: "......"
All his anticipated battle plans and contingency measures were stuck in his throat at that moment, and he couldn't utter a single word. This was completely different from what he had imagined!
And what are you doing, Senju Yoriichi?!
In that instant, Tobirama felt as if he had been struck on the head, and his vision went black.
In a daze, he seemed to see his older brother, Yoriichi, and Uchiha Madara... Number Two (Yakushige), holding hands and smiling brightly as they told him that they were going to work together to achieve the ideal of "world peace," leaving him alone in the wind, bewildered, dealing with mountains of documents and endless arguments with representatives of various races.
At this moment, Uchiha Kokusatsu's feelings were equally complex and difficult to describe.
His purpose for this trip was very clear: to personally confirm whether this "Senju Yoriichi" was related to the person he was thinking of.
And now, the answer is self-evident—no evidence needed, no words needed, in the instant of looking into the child's eyes, the tremor that comes from a resonance of the soul has already given 100% confirmation.
It's confirmed, it's the Yoriichi from his memory.
An indescribable emotion welled up inside him, like a jumble of mixed feelings. Yan Sheng felt a mixture of barely perceptible, secret joy and a sense of unease and resentment at the recurring cycle of fate.
In the end, even he himself couldn't explain what kind of feeling filled his chest.
"I should go." Yan Sheng lowered his eyes, his voice returning to its usual coldness, as he tried to pull his sleeve away from that small hand.
However, Yoriichi gripped it even tighter.
He tilted his head back, his clear, bright eyes filled with longing, as if Yan Sheng were a long-lost, crucial piece of the puzzle. He even used a familiar address that sent chills down the spines of everyone around him:
"Brother." Yoriichi's voice was soft and childlike, and he said earnestly, "Do you really have to leave? Then take me with you."
The word "elder brother" struck Yan Sheng's heart like a thunderbolt.
In an instant, the phantom of his past life overlapped with reality. He seemed to see again the figure who, no matter how he chased or rejected him, always watched him and even said similar words when he resolutely left.
Yan Sheng: "..."
That's enough. He really said that was enough.
Yan Sheng's aura suddenly turned cold and sharp, carrying an unapproachable pressure.
"Let go." This time, his tone carried a commanding chill.
Seeing that things were going wrong, Tobirama Senju could no longer stand idly by. He appeared beside Yoriichi with a Body Flicker Technique, his tone stern: "Yoriichi! Let go! Don't be rude!" At the same time, he reached out to forcibly pull Yoriichi away.
A shocking scene unfolded—just as Tobirama's hand was about to touch Yoriichi, the eight-year-old boy unleashed an astonishing power and spirit: with an almost instinctive and incredibly precise movement, he slightly shifted his body, twisted his wrist, and in an instant, broke free from Tobirama's determined grasp.
Although it was only for a brief moment, and he was then firmly subdued by Tobirama, the potential displayed in that lightning-fast reaction and the seemingly innate fighting instinct caused Yan Sheng's pupils to shrink and his scalp to tingle.
That's the feeling! This despairing shadow of talent that seems impossible to truly overcome no matter how hard he tries.
Without any further hesitation, taking advantage of the moment when Tobirama was holding Yoriichi back, he vanished from the spot in a flash.
Even as he left, he could still clearly feel the gaze belonging to Yoriichi behind him, still burning him with intense intensity, almost scorching him.
......
That evening.
Yan Sheng sat alone in the silent hall, the events of the day still swirling in his mind.
Yoriichi Senju's eyes and his cry of "Brother" are like a curse that I cannot shake off.
He needs an answer.
He closed his eyes, his consciousness sinking into a state of chaos. He silently murmured the word "hell."
After a while, a familiar feeling of weightlessness and spatial distortion returned, and his feet landed on solid ground. A faint, unique aura of the underworld permeated the surroundings, along with... a series of eerie, swaying "gurgling" sounds.
He "landed" once again in the residence of his assistant, Hozuki. It was still the familiar courtyard filled with strangely shaped, emitting eerie sounds of snapdragons.
He had just regained his footing and was about to go look for the ghost lantern when he suddenly saw a very suspicious figure above the courtyard wall.
It was a man wearing a white Chinese-style robe, with messy hair and a slightly frivolous demeanor, who was peering furtively into the mansion from the top of the wall.
Yan Sheng remained silent for a moment.
Hozuki will most likely become his direct superior in the future. Given that his superior's home is being spied on by suspicious individuals, it seems reasonable for him to intervene.
He walked over silently, came up behind the person, and then raised his hand to pat the person's shoulder lightly.
"Whoa!" The man trembled in fright, turned around abruptly, and blurted out a perfectly standard Chinese phrase: "Holy crap!"
Although Yan Sheng didn't understand the specific meaning of the word, judging from the other person's extremely frightened expression and tone, he could guess that it was by no means a refined word.
"What are you doing?" Yan Sheng asked expressionlessly, his voice cold.
The man in white, Bai Ze, upon recognizing the unfamiliar but extremely handsome spirit behind him, first gave an awkward laugh, then straightened his back, trying to save face, and said in a deliberately casual tone, "Ahem, nothing, I just need to talk to Hozuki about something. By the way, who are you? How did you get out of Hozuki's house?"
As he spoke, he habitually leaned closer and sniffed, a hint of surprise on his face. "Huh? You're a living soul? You smell so strongly of a living person."
Yan Sheng didn't want to get entangled with him any longer, and said directly, "I'm considered Hozuki Mirai's employee. I came to see him because I have something to ask him. But what are you doing?"
He asked again.
Bai Ze's eyes darted around, a sly glint in them. He immediately adopted a know-it-all attitude, lightly tapping his palm with his fan: "Want to ask? It's the same whether you ask him or me! I'm the divine beast Bai Ze, I know everything from astronomy to geography, I understand the principles of all things, I might even know more than that stubborn ghost!"
Yan Sheng, still wary of his unreliable demeanor, asked in a cold tone, "So, who are you?"
Bai Ze: "Ahem! I already told you I'm Bai Ze! I'm your boss Hozuki's old, old friend! He probably hasn't mentioned me to you, after all, we're 'too good' together, so it's normal that he's embarrassed to bring it up. Anyway—" He patted his chest, "Ask whatever you want!"
Perhaps it was out of desperation, or perhaps Bai Ze truly possessed an extraordinary aura, but after a moment of silence, Yan Sheng finally brought up the extraordinary closeness to "Senju Yoriichi," the inexplicable "brother" address, and the obsession that transcended worlds, in a way that blurred the specific world background.
Bai Ze stroked his chin, listening intently and nodding occasionally.
“I see, I understand now.” Bai Ze looked like he knew everything. “According to your description, your… well, ‘friend’s younger brother’ has a very, very deep obsession with your friend! This obsession is deeply imprinted in his soul, forming a kind of causal ‘fate’. It’s a very rare and troublesome situation.”
He analyzed with an air of seriousness: "Ordinary Meng Po soup, one serving washes away memories of the past life, but it's completely useless against this level of obsession. I estimate that you'd have to give him dozens of servings to barely dilute it a little bit." He changed the subject, a smile spreading across his face, and leaned closer to Yan Sheng, "What a coincidence, I'm good friends with Meng Po, the one who brews Meng Po soup! If you want to solve this problem, it's very simple."
As he spoke, he habitually used his supernatural powers to observe Yan Sheng, his gaze inadvertently sweeping over the top of Yan Sheng's head.
Then, all the words he was about to say got stuck in his throat. His eyes widened suddenly, his mouth opened slightly, and he had a shocked expression as if he had seen a ghost.
Holy crap!
Has this person saved the world? The golden light of merit that enveloped him, almost solidified and outrageously thick, was blinding. Just who is he?
Looking at Bai Ze's knowing expression and the way he was fiddling with his fingers, Yan Sheng instantly understood what the so-called "simple" method meant.
"Money?" Yan Sheng frowned slightly.
During his brief stay in Hell, he gained some understanding of the monetary system there, but as a living soul in the mortal world, where would he have any underworld currency?
"As the saying goes, money makes the world go round." Seeing his interest, Bai Ze immediately perked up, leaned closer, lowered his voice, and spoke with an air of expertise. "Although the Meng Po soup is rationed by the government, the rules are rigid, but ghosts are flexible. I have a close relationship with Meng Po, so getting a few dozen more servings wouldn't be impossible. It's just a matter of bribing officials and smoothing things over... hehe, you know, it all depends on how much you can offer." As he spoke, he gestured with his eyes, implying that there were quite a few steps involved that required bribing officials.
Yan Sheng remained silent for a moment.
He was born into prestigious families in both his family and his ancestors, and had never worried about money. But now, he was truly poor, the kind of poor who didn't have a single penny.
“I have no currency from this world,” he told the truth.
"Oh, it doesn't necessarily have to be cash!" Bai Ze waved his hand, as if to say, "You're very savvy, but I can be more flexible." "Bartering is fine too! Do you have any treasures on you? Or... with so much merit, you can share it little by little and condense it into merit coins, which are the hardest currency among hard currencies!"
As he spoke, his eyes couldn't help but dart towards the almost tangible golden light surrounding Yan Sheng, his mouth watering with longing. If only he could pry off a little bit of that...
Yan Sheng followed his gaze, looked down at himself, thought for a moment, and instinctively raised his hand, trying to sense and guide the so-called "merit" as if he were mobilizing chakra.
Unexpectedly, with a slight thought, a warm, pure golden light, carrying an indescribable aura of peace, slowly condensed at his fingertips, eventually transforming into a transparent golden coin as thin as a cicada's wing yet as heavy as a thousand pounds, with faint, mysterious patterns flowing on it.
The moment the coin took shape, a faint chant seemed to rise in the surroundings, and even the strange snapdragons in the courtyard temporarily stopped their gurgling and fell silent.
Bai Ze's eyes widened instantly, and his breathing quickened. He stared intently at the merit coin, muttering, "Yes! Yes, yes, yes! This is it! A good thing! A really good thing!"
He reached out to take it, but Yan Sheng closed his fingers and put the coin away, the golden light disappearing.
"How much for a bowl of soup?" Yan Sheng asked calmly, preparing to haggle. Although he wasn't stingy, he didn't want to be ripped off.
"Well," Bai Ze rubbed his hands together, his eyes darting around as if calculating costs and his own profit, "you see, the ingredients for this Meng Po soup are precious, the process is complicated, and we have to take the risk of getting more portions... So, I won't ask for more from you, one serving of soup, one merit coin of the same quality as before! Fifty servings of soup, fifty coins! I guarantee that your 'friend's brother' will drink his fill and forget everything!" He held up five fingers, his face showing an expression of "honesty and fair pricing."
Yan Sheng looked at him without saying a word. Those deep black eyes were calm and still, yet they made Bai Ze feel a strange pressure, as if all his little thoughts had been seen through.
"Ten pieces," Yan Sheng said, his voice leaving no room for doubt. "Ten pieces at most. Fifty servings of soup."
"What? Ten pieces!" Bai Ze almost jumped up. "How is that possible! It doesn't even cover the cost! Brother, you're ruthless with your bargaining! Forty pieces! That's the lowest I can go!"
Eight pieces.
"Hey! Why is it going down?! Thirty-five!"
Five.
"Stop! Stop! Stop!" Bai Ze clutched his chest, looking as if he was in so much pain he couldn't breathe. "Twenty coins! Twenty coins is the lowest I can go! Any lower and this deal is off! I can't explain this to Meng Po!"
Yan Sheng stared at him silently, his eyes clearly saying, "You just said you were good friends with Meng Po."
Bai Ze felt a little guilty under his gaze, and finally gritted his teeth and stamped his foot: "Fine, fine, let's just consider it making friends! Fifteen coins! Fifteen merit coins for fifty servings of the enhanced Meng Po soup!"
Yan Sheng pondered for a moment.
"Okay." He nodded.
"Deal!" Bai Ze, afraid he might change his mind, immediately agreed, his face beaming with joy. Fifteen pure merit coins—this was a huge profit! As for Meng Po... a few bottles of his specially brewed divine wine should be enough to handle it.
However, just as Bai Ze was happily planning how to spend this "windfall," and Yan Sheng was gathering merit coins, a cold voice, suppressing anger, rang out from behind them:
"Bai—Ze—what are you doing again, you bastard? And you, Uchiha Yansheng, why are you with this scum?"
Suddenly, Hozuki appeared at the courtyard gate, carrying his signature spiked club. His face was as black as the bottom of a pot, and the terrifying low pressure emanating from him caused the temperature in the entire courtyard to drop several degrees.
His gaze was like an icicle, first piercing Bai Ze, who looked guilty and instinctively tried to hide behind Yan Sheng, then turning to Yan Sheng with scrutiny and a hint of displeasure.
He clearly overheard parts of the conversation, especially keywords like "Meng Po soup" and "merit money".
An extremely awkward silence fell over the scene.
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The author's note: In the younger brother's eyes, the older brother is the sun. A warm but not glaring sun, a sun that brings him warmth and light.
In the older brother's eyes, the younger brother was the sun. A scorching and blinding sun, a sun that brought him despair and darkness.
#On the commonalities between the two pairs of brothers, Xiu and Rihei#
Two older brothers: My younger brother is still chasing me!
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