C111 One Step to the Sky One Step to the Abyss!

"Yes, that's me."

Yang Ming nodded in response. There was no point in hiding it; in a week's time, his identity would be known to all.

"Indeed!"

Gong Lizi shuddered with realization.

Suspecting the truth was one thing, but hearing Yang Ming confirm it was quite another. The shock of confirming the world's truths was unparalleled.

Suddenly, all her doubts dissolved.

The peculiarities that once puzzled her now made perfect sense.

"No wonder he was selected by Lord Grass Kage, and managed to gain admission to the Ninja School so exceptionally. Shortly after his arrival, he clashed with classmates and teachers, and yet, he emerged unscathed while his classmates suffered misfortune."

"He even took a month's leave, and it was rumored that Lord Mizushiro Tsubasa himself penned the leave note."

"When he returned, he attended school without uttering a word, and no one dared question him."

"Later, he managed to build a house on the village's western outskirts. Now, here in the special city, even Miyamoto turned his back on me at the sight of him. Our years of friendship ended just like that. But of course, who else but the legendary Yuejun could command such respect to make a proud man like Miyamoto bow?"

"The orphanage has also seen an influx of funds recently, with many new benefits. I had been wondering about the sudden change, but now I understand it's all thanks to him. Mr. Gekka has never forgotten his roots in the orphanage."

Gong Lizi's understanding dawned on her gradually.

Yet, the clearer her understanding became, the more intense the shock in her heart grew. When she looked at Yang Ming again, he was physically close, but it felt as if there was a vast chasm between them—a chasm she had inadvertently created.

"I never imagined you would grow so much. To defeat Kawabata Nozomu at such a young age, you've already reached the level of an Elite Ninja. I clearly underestimated you."

Gong Lizi sighed, a glimmer of deep regret in her eyes.

If only she had treated Yang Ming better back then, shown a little more patience, she might now be Yuejun's teacher.

One step to heaven, one step to the abyss—such is life, a stark contrast between extremes!

"You've certainly misjudged the situation. I'd prefer if you didn't bother me again in the future," Yang Ming stated coolly to Gong Lizi.

"Yes," she replied.

Upon hearing his words, Gong Lizi bowed deeply. In the presence of the legendary Yuejun, respect was paramount.

Straightening up, she realized that Yang Ming had vanished without a trace.

"So this is the power of an Elite Ninja," she mused with a sigh, before turning to leave.

Over the next few days, Gong Lizi and her companions were nowhere to be seen by Yang Ming, having reportedly returned to their village.

Yang Ming, unconcerned, spent his time indulging in food, drink, and merriment with Karin, exploring every corner of the special city.

Only on the final day of the Elite Ninja ceremony did they leave the city, contented, and head back to the village.

Yang Ming donned his tailor-made attire, fastened his headband, and after a brief preparation, made his way to the office of the Grass Kage.

Grass Village had transformed, festooned with lights and decorations, buzzing with the excitement of the New Year.

Yet, this was not even the height of the festivities.

The village was abuzz as people from all corners of the Grass Country converged upon it. Wealthy merchants and ninjas from neighboring lands were among the crowd. Notably, a significant number of Waterfall and Frost Ninjas were present, representing Waterfall Country and Frost Country at the ceremony.

Many merchants and others, drawn by the renown of Yuejun, arrived seeking to commission missions.

Grass Village was a hub of unparalleled prosperity.

And when the magnate of the Grass Country made his entrance, everyone was astounded!