Chapter 81: Genjutsu Training

“These are the images of the Mokuton user and his companions,” Shishou said, tossing a few sheets to the Third Hokage as he sat down, closing his eyes to rest.

“Hidan from Takigakure, Kakuzu from Kirigakure,” Shishou continued. “I don’t know about the pitcher plant and the masked man, but they all belong to an organization called ‘Akatsuki.’ You should investigate that.”

"Alright, Third Hokage-sama," Shishou continued. "I've fulfilled your commission. Now it's time for you to show your sincerity."

Shishou was ready to claim his reward without further delving into Akatsuki.

"Hehe, Mr. Lurigan is right," the Third Hokage chuckled. "Here is a list of Konoha's researchers. You can hire whoever you need from this list."

Although Shishou had only provided information on the Wood Release user and not the Flying Thunder God user, the Third Hokage was satisfied. He handed Shishou a stack of personnel files.

Shishou skimmed through the list and handed it to Takeko. These individuals were Konoha's ninjas and staff, which meant hiring them would be expensive and their loyalty uncertain. But for Shishou's current needs, it would suffice. After all, he wasn't planning anything shady.

Takeko would handle the details of selecting the personnel; Shishou just needed the results. The Third Hokage also handed over an envelope with a smile.

"This is my letter of recommendation for Mr. Lurigan, allowing you to meet the Daimyo of the Land of Fire."

Shishou glanced at the letter and passed it to Takeko. He had no immediate plans to contact the Daimyo.

"I would like to commission Mr. Lurigan to continue investigating Akatsuki," the Third Hokage proposed as Shishou was preparing to leave. "Would you be interested?"

If they could have Lurigan investigate Akatsuki, Konoha could avoid direct conflict and unnecessary casualties.

Shishou pondered the offer, stroking his chin. Knowing the storyline, he was well-acquainted with Akatsuki. By occasionally providing information on its members, he could easily fulfill the mission without personal investigation. It seemed like a lucrative deal.

"I need someone skilled in illusions to guide me in mastering genjutsu," Shishou said, presenting his terms. "If Konoha agrees to this, I will take on the commission to investigate Akatsuki."

Shishou's genjutsu foundation was weak, preventing him from fully utilizing the power of his Mangekyō Sharingan. He hoped for guidance but didn't expect the Third Hokage to agree easily. After all, obtaining Konoha's ninjutsu instruction wasn't simple for an outsider.

"Hmm..." The Third Hokage was hesitant, as were Homura Mitokado and Koharu Utatane, who looked at Shishou with furrowed brows. Ninjutsu from each village was a closely guarded secret.

Is there a chance? Shishou thought, seeing the Third Hokage’s hesitation. He remained calm on the surface.

"If the Third Hokage agrees to my request," Shishou added, "I won't take a single ryo for this commission."

The Third Hokage, still unsure, looked at Shishou and began to speak, "Mr. Lurigan, still..."

Shishou interrupted, holding up a finger. "One million ryo per year for the instruction fee."

One million ryo? The Third Hokage was stunned. He had offered only five hundred thousand ryo to investigate the masked man. Now, Shishou was not only refusing payment but offering a million ryo annually for learning genjutsu. It was an astonishing offer.

Even the senior advisors were shocked. A million ryo each year—how wealthy was Mr. Lurigan?

Seeing their lack of response, Shishou raised the stakes. "Two million ryo."

The Third Hokage and his advisors were breathless. An S-rank mission commission was typically only a hundred thousand ryo and rare. But here was Shishou offering two million ryo annually just to learn genjutsu, which was mind-blowing.

Still seeing no reaction, Shishou frowned and raised another finger. "Three million ryo."

Adding the waived five hundred thousand ryo commission, this offer matched Asuma Sarutobi’s bounty. If the Third Hokage still refused, Shishou would drop the matter. Learning genjutsu was a means to fully utilize his Mangekyō Sharingan, akin to Itachi and Shisui Uchiha. Ultimately, it was about enhancing his prowess.

If not, it was no big deal.

Sensing Shishou’s impatience, Koharu finally nudged the Third Hokage to agree. Three million ryo was an extraordinary offer.

"Ahem! Mr. Lurigan, we accept your terms," the Third Hokage said solemnly.

"Very well. I won't meddle further. She will finalize the researcher hiring details with you. Discuss any potential investments with her; if profitable, we might invest in Konoha as well."

Shishou stretched and stood, satisfied. Three million ryo was a trivial amount for someone with numerous casinos, banks, and mines.

The prospect of investment brightened the advisors' eyes.

Takeko then discussed Shishou's requirements for researchers with the Third Hokage, who recommended suitable candidates despite some confusion over the requested 'fertilizer' research.

Meanwhile, Shishou, accompanied by Anko, wandered around Konoha. Exploring the village as an outsider felt novel.

As they walked, Shishou suddenly stopped. He had spotted his bug clone.

Sensing Shishou’s gaze, the bug clone also paused, looking back at him. Then it smirked eerily and hurried away.

Wait, the bug clone should be attending classes at the Academy! Shishou’s body stiffened, hairs standing on end.