"Uncle Hogen, we sincerely want to take you as our master! Why not just agree?"
Shisui did not beat around the bush and spoke up immediately.
But Hogen refused just as decisively. "No, absolutely not. Teaching you two has already disrupted my plans. How could I have time to take you on as disciples?"
However, neither Shisui nor Itachi was discouraged. They had already been rejected many times, so one more rejection made no difference.
Soon, the noodles were served. Seeing the two children enjoying them so much, Hogen could not help wanting to give them a good beating.
"You two, wanting to become my disciples is just an excuse. You really came here to mooch a meal, didn't you?"
"The moment you entered, you ordered the most luxurious set meal. Even I usually can't bear to eat that!"
The two boys, who were wolfing down their noodles, looked up at Hogen and then flashed grins.
"Hehe! We really do want to become your disciples, and we really do want to eat noodles. Those two things don't conflict!"
Hogen shook his head helplessly. Since they had not yet finished their training, he still had to teach them.
"Hurry up and eat. Once you're done, get to the Back Mountain and train with me!"
Shisui rubbed his stomach. "Training right after eating, Shishou? Won't that be bad for our bodies?"
Hogen promptly corrected him. "I'm not your Shishou, so don't call me that."
"But you're right. It really wouldn't be good for your bodies. Rest for an hour, then meet up after that."
With that, Hogen vanished.
Itachi sighed. "Failed again. Why does it feel like Lord Hogen dislikes us?"
Shisui, meanwhile, looked reassured. "From what I can tell, we might succeed very soon. Let's keep trying!"
Itachi did not quite