Dan Kato finally left just before dawn. After a night of practice, both of them felt like they'd learned a lot. Of course, Anya had benefited the most. Though he already basically understood the [Spirit Transformation Technique], he still didn't know how to attack or heal with it—those would require long-term practice. This ability to learn and comprehend impressed Dan greatly. The two even agreed to meet often for exchanges.
Just as Anya was feeling excited inside, White Fang finally stepped out from the shadows.
Seeing White Fang, Anya was very surprised because he noticed the dew on White Fang's body. Clearly, he hadn't just arrived but had been watching for a while.
White Fang seriously warned, "Don't use this Ninjutsu on the battlefield in the future, and never let anyone know you can use it."
"Why?" Anya asked confusedly.
White Fang explained, "Because this Ninjutsu has a fatal weakness—your original body. It's a double-edged sword. If I were your enemy, I'd specifically design a tactic against you. When you use the [Spirit Transformation Technique] is the moment you'll die."
White Fang's words exploded like thunder in Anya's mind. The euphoria Anya had felt from the power of the jutsu instantly vanished. That's right. The [Spirit Transformation Technique] was powerful, but its flaws were also clear. If he recklessly used it on the battlefield, he might die without even knowing how.
Anya took a deep breath, quickly calming his previous excitement and regaining composure. "Thank you, Teacher," he said sincerely.
After a moment of pause, White Fang continued, "Actually, before your [Swordsmanship] reaches perfection, I don't recommend learning any jutsu at all. That's why I've never taught you any. Do you have any objection? Speak freely."
"Of course not," Anya replied directly. "You've always been the mentor I respect the most."
Nodding slightly, White Fang handed over a small bag. "Then take this. This is your payment for this mission. You can take a few days off to rest properly. I expect missions will become more frequent soon."
"Alright."
After White Fang left, Anya also departed from the training ground alone, tossing the small bag up in his hand. It felt quite heavy—looks like he'd earned quite a tidy sum.
In that case, he should definitely go around town for a bit. After all, these are wartime days. Who knows when one might lose their life? What's the point of saving money if you can't take it with you when you're dead?
Walking down the street, the atmosphere clearly felt oppressive. News of the Second Battle had already reached the village. While White Fang and Anya were out on their mission, many ninja had also been dispatched from Konoha. Battles were breaking out in multiple regions simultaneously, which explained why there were so many injured soldiers at the hospital.
Dawn broke over the village, and the shops looked particularly deserted. Anya couldn't immediately find a place to eat breakfast. Suddenly, as he passed a regular-looking middle-aged man wearing glasses, he stopped in his tracks.
Anya's eyes became sharp and penetrating. He studied the man more closely. At first glance, he looked plain—simple clothes, modest appearance, and an outdated pair of glasses perched low on his forehead. There's something about him—the kind of person who'd vanish into any crowd without a trace.
A faint smile tugged at Anya's lips. It wasn't often she ran into someone like her.
This man was most likely a great thief, Anya strongly suspected. Definitely a master of stealth — walking so openly through Konoha proved it.
Anya stepped forward and greeted directly, "Uncle, good morning."
Caught off guard, the middle-aged man blinked in surprise before recovering and smiling kindly. "Hello there, little one. Need something?"
"You're putting up quite an act," Anya said, impressed by how well he was faking it. If he wanted to play dumb, she'd humor him.
Returning the same warm smile, Anya asked, "Actually, I was looking for breakfast, but after walking around for a while, I still haven't found anything open. Uncle, do you know where I can eat?"
"Oh, breakfast?" The man pointed toward a nearby corner. "If you turn at that intersection, you'll find some."
"Really? Thanks so much!" Anya enthusiastically invited, "How about I buy you breakfast?"
The man shook his head. "That wouldn't be right. I've got work to do. I'll pass."
"Aww, what a shame," Anya said with regret. "Alright then, see you!"
"Mm." The man nodded and started to leave.
Suddenly, Anya called out louder, "Wait! How about this — where do you work? Once I'm done eating, I'll bring you something over as thanks for helping me find my way."
The man, who had just turned around, slightly furrowed his brow. He found this child before him rather persistent, giving off an eerie vibe. Did she see through him? Probably not…
Still smiling brightly, the man replied, "That wouldn't feel right. Let me treat you instead."
Anya smiled and said, "Thanks."
Not far around the corner, they came across a noodle shop that had already opened. Both ordered a bowl of noodles. As she ate, Anya gave her evaluation: Not as good as Ichiraku Ramen, but still decent — mild and perfect for breakfast. This person clearly knew Konoha well. Impressive.
After finishing their noodles, Anya paid first. Surprised, the man asked, "Little missy, wasn't I supposed to treat you?"
Stepping outside, Anya smirked slightly, "Don't worry about it. Just do me a favor afterward and we'll call it even."
Noticing Anya's expression, the man felt a flicker of unease inside but remained calm on the surface. "What kind of trouble are you having, little girl?"
"It's impossible. I need you to steal something for me."
These words hit the man like a stone splashing into water, sending shockwaves through his mind. Horrified, he instinctively took a couple steps back, saying, "Little girl, you shouldn't joke around like that. Stealing is wrong."
Anya pressed further, "Then how about sneaking into someone else's village and pretending to be an ordinary worker? Would you consider that right?"
The man broke out in a cold sweat, stammering, "Kid, you can't go around saying stuff like that. I'm just a regular worker."
"Cut it out, stop pretending. Put away the weapon behind your back. Believe me, you can't beat me. Even if you could, this is Konoha. If things blow up too much here, there'll be no way out for you."
Anya's words cut straight to his core.
He pushed up his glasses, eyes now sharp and alert, as his previously slumped frame straightened. He asked evenly, "How did you see through me? I thought I hadn't given anything away."
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