C38 What Does Gekka Ming Want to Do? What Does It Have to Do with You?

"In three days, I'll participate in the Ninja graduation ceremony and officially leave as a Junior Ninja. This will allow me to remain in the village with a clear role. Having the status of a Junior Ninja makes it easier to explain things both internally and externally."

After agreeing on the terms, Yang Ming nodded and took his leave, feeling a sense of relief as he reflected on the Grass Kage's proposal. The Grass Kage must have been concerned about him leaving for good, hence offering him the status of a Grass Ninja.

Branding himself with the mark of a Grass Ninja didn't bother Yang Ming. He was born into this world, and wearing the forehead protector of a Grass Ninja, whether as a Junior Ninja or not, was of little consequence to him.

Yang Ming then headed to the construction site to tender his resignation.

The foreman, Kurahashi Shinai, had treated him well, largely due to his diligent work, but it was time to resign and bring things to a proper close.

Upon arriving at the site, Yang Ming was surprised to find an unexpected figure.

Gong Lizi!

The head of the orphanage!

She was there, seemingly waiting just for him.

"Why are you here? Have they not fixed the damaged area yet?" Yang Ming asked Gong Lizi, his tone detached.

"That was repaired a while ago. I came here specifically to find you," Gong Lizi replied, equally cool.

"To find me? I believe we've settled our differences. I have no desire to be involved with you any longer. I'm sorry."

At her words, Yang Ming scoffed and turned to leave. He had resolved any past grievances with Gong Lizi.

"Mr. Gekka, you've misunderstood. I'm not here to rekindle any sort of relationship with you, but rather to share something important. I hope you won't stray down the wrong path," Gong Lizi called out urgently.

"Stray down the wrong path?" Yang Ming turned back, his laugh tinged with scorn.

"Yes. I've seen your strength grow rapidly of late, but you're too solitary. I've watched you grow up, so I understand you," Gong Lizi said earnestly, her voice filled with the concern of an elder imparting wisdom to a younger one.

"You've always been this way since you were a kid, but I hope you'll consider changing your ways. You should realize that the Grass Kage has taken notice of you. Opportunities like this are rare, and you definitely shouldn't let it slip by. Many people might never get such a chance in their lifetime, much less seize it."

"Hahaha!"

Yang Ming burst into laughter upon hearing Gong Lizi's words.

"What's so funny? I'm discussing something important with you. I hope you'll take it seriously!"

Gong Lizi frowned at his reaction.

"Oh, Gong Lizi, you really overestimate yourself. What makes you think you're qualified to lecture me or teach me anything?"

"I respected you before because you kept me alive. Over the past five years, you've at least kept me from starving. But that doesn't give you the power to dictate my actions."

"When Chu Koichi was here, I saved your life. A life for a life, our debts are settled. What I, Gekka Ming, choose to do and how I conduct myself is none of your concern. You don't need to bother with me, nor do you have any right to tell me what to do."

"As for the Grass Kage's interest, that's my affair, not yours. From now on, my business is mine alone, and I won't tolerate your meddling. Otherwise, don't expect me to be polite!"

Yang Ming's words were icy, showing no leniency towards Gong Lizi.

He had thought she came with some purpose in mind, only to find she was attempting to sway his thoughts, using old ties to persuade him, or to trap him in past sentiments.

It might look like she was acting in his best interest, but in truth, she was trying to exert her authority as an elder to control him.

But she had picked the wrong person to influence; Yang Ming was not one to be swayed by sentimentality.