C75 The Whereabouts of the Flame Warm Herb

In the Ninja World, strength is revered above all else. Fame, power, and status are as insubstantial as clouds when confronted with raw power.

Despite his youth, Yang Ming commanded respect from all; no one dared underestimate him now. They bowed before him, their eyes filled with reverence, as if in the presence of a formidable force.

"Shall we continue the competition?" Yang Ming asked the Grass Country's magnate, his tone cool and detached.

"There's no need. Victory goes to the Grass Ninja," declared Chidzuru Koichi, positioning himself protectively in front of the magnate, ready for any sudden moves from Yang Ming. His expression was grave as he had never been before, nodding in response to Yang Ming's question, his words deliberate and clear.

His statement effectively conveyed the magnate's intentions.

Yang Ming gave a nod of acknowledgment and turned away, stepping behind the Grass Kage. He pulled out a Grass Ninja headband from his pocket and placed it on his head, the symbolism clear to all.

The crowd grew silent at this gesture, the magnate included, their faces turning pale as they watched the Grass Kage.

Their eyes then shifted to Chidzuru Koichi, awaiting his guidance.

Chidzuru Koichi let out a weary sigh, his demeanor suddenly aged, and he shook his head.

At this, the magnate seemed to crumble, his commanding presence vanishing as he became just another face in the crowd. He turned to the Grass Kage and, with a respectful bow, said, "Congratulations to the Grass Kage for cultivating such a prodigy. Henceforth, Daming Mansion will fully support the Grass Kage, striving to elevate the Grass Country to a power on par with the five great nations."

With a heavy sigh, he acknowledged the Grass Kage's newfound independence, placing them on equal footing.

"He has truly become independent!" the onlookers murmured among themselves, a mix of silence and envy in their eyes as they regarded the Grass Kage.

The magnate then bowed to Yang Ming, standing behind the Grass Kage. "Mr. Gekka, having someone of your caliber in our Grass Country is our greatest privilege," he said, his eyes betraying his deep respect.

In the Ninja World, the strong command respect, regardless of age. To the mighty, all pay their respects, for strength transcends the boundaries of youth and age.

"It seems that even Chidzuru Koichi pales in comparison to this young man, prompting the magnate to show such deference. It's undeniable—the Grass Kage truly exists!"

Witnessing the scene, all the ministers couldn't help but sigh in awe.

"Indeed. As strong as Chidzuru Koichi is, can he really shake a long blade barehanded? And the sheer terror of his punch... He's merely a warrior, not a ninja; he can't even get close. Gekka Ming is his bane; against him, Koichi doesn't stand a chance, let alone strategize for battle!"

"Even a ninja would likely falter under such overwhelming force. A single strike that can shake the earth and move mountains—who could possibly stand against it?"

Subsequently, all eyes converged on the young man standing behind the Grass Kage.

They all whispered the same name in unison.

"Mr. Gekka!"

The magnate then ordered the area to be cleared, and everyone proceeded to the main hall of the mansion. After a quick reorganization, they prepared for another banquet.

However, at this banquet, there was only one true star—Gekka Ming.

Whether it was the Grass Kage, the magnate, or Chidzuru Koichi, they merely played supporting roles.

In the presence of this immensely talented powerhouse, everyone wore a smile of respect, eager to make his acquaintance and forge strong alliances.

Some openly showed their favor, with a few even considering offering their daughters in marriage.

Amidst this, Yang Ming remained composed. It wasn't until Kawabata Nozomu stepped forward to offer an apology and mentioned something that Yang Ming's demeanor shifted, prompting him to inquire.

"Do you know the whereabouts of the Flame Warm Herb?"

"Yes, Mr. Gekka. I encountered this rare herb in a valley once and made a mental note of its location. Now, I am honored to present it to you."

Kawabata Nozomu nodded affirmatively, his assurance unwavering.