That was never going to happen.
They say, "One should not bite the hand that feeds them," and "If you take someone's favor, you owe them."
But… did Hiruzen Sarutobi even count as a person deserving of that courtesy?
Obviously not.
So when Hayashi Ren took the envelope of money, he didn't feel the slightest bit of guilt or hesitation.
"You little rascal," Hiruzen grinned, raising the brown paper envelope just out of reach. "You can have the money, sure—but first, you have to tell Grandpa how you feel about the Hidden Leaf."
Ren tilted his head, pretending to ponder seriously. "Ah, I suppose it's alright. We're not exactly rich, but at least our lives are somewhat secure… though some villagers really don't like Naruko."
Naruko's expression dimmed at those words.
Sasuko glanced at her. She didn't say anything, but her eyes showed a flicker of sympathy.
"Don't worry," Hiruzen said as he gave Ren a pat on the shoulder. Though his words were directed at Ren, the corner of his eye was trained on Naruko, carefully watching her reaction.
At first, he'd been concerned she might respond emotionally, but seeing her remain subdued reassured him, and he relaxed his gaze.
"Yes, I believe in Grandpa Hokage," Hayashi Ren said with a bright smile.
Everything would pass soon enough.
After all, his rise was already in motion. When he did rise, he couldn't wait to see the faces of those arrogant villagers.
But more than that, what he really wanted to see… was his expression.
The expression of the so-called Doctor of the Ninja World, the 'Bear of the Leaf,' the Third Hokage.
"Hahaha, such a good boy. Here," Hiruzen said cheerfully, handing him the envelope. "Remember to spend it wisely—don't blow it all in one place!"
"I will, I will." Ren took on the look of a greedy little miser as he stuffed the envelope into his robe and gave it a theatrical pat, as if to seal the treasure safely within.
Seeing that, Hiruzen let out a soft chuckle.
"Oh right—Lord Hokage," Ren suddenly looked up with an innocent expression, "do you know anything about a group called Root?"
"Where did you hear about that?"
Hiruzen's expression shifted instantly, his voice turning sharp and serious.
"There was this old man, all wrapped up in bandages. He told me that once I graduate, I should report there."
Ren looked appropriately alarmed, like a child frightened by an adult's sudden change in tone. His performance was flawless.
Seeing his fear, Hiruzen's demeanor quickly reverted to his earlier "kind grandfather" persona.
"Ah, I'm sorry, little Ren. That just reminded me of something unpleasant. Did I scare you?" he asked gently.
Ren nodded repeatedly, eyes wide and sincere.
"It's alright, Grandpa's not angry with you," Hiruzen said, reaching out to tousle his hair. "But listen carefully, Ren—you must never go to that place. Root is not somewhere a good child like you should be."
"I-I understand… b-but the old man was really scary…"
Ren's voice trembled just enough, as if he were truly afraid.
"It's okay. Leave it to Grandpa to take care of him," Hiruzen replied with a reassuring tone.
Such a calculating man.
As Hokage, Hiruzen didn't need to think twice to guess what his old partner, Danzo, was up to. He knew Danzo far too well.
Hiruzen gave Ren one final pat on the shoulder and turned to leave.
What he didn't notice, however, was the sly, wicked curve of Hayashi Ren's lips once his back was turned.
It was the smile of a man whose plan had just succeeded.
…