After a bit more verbal back-and-forth, the Old Leader could tell that Hyuga Shinichi truly didn't care about receiving any reward.
He couldn't help silently praising him. As expected of someone from a great clan like the Hyuga Clan!
Everything about the young man's words and manner showed the bearing of someone from a great family. To be so indifferent to fame and fortune at such a young age was truly rare.
What's more, the way Hyuga Shinichi had turned down his kind offer also earned the Old Leader's admiration.
He hadn't rejected him outright, but had tactfully declined while still saving face for him.
That sense of propriety only made the Old Leader like Hyuga Shinichi all the more.
He had always liked such sincere people. That was also why he had taken Mifune in and raised him.
Just as the Old Leader was about to continue talking with Hyuga Shinichi, the gate guard who had escorted him and the others into the hall walked in again.
He came to the Old Leader's side, bent down, and whispered a few words in his ear.
After listening, the Old Leader thought for a moment, then nodded. Without regard for Hyuga Shinichi and the others' presence, he said to the samurai, "Is that so? Then bring them in as well. More people means more help."
"Yes, my lord."
The samurai respectfully acknowledged the order, then turned and left the hall.
After he had gone, the Old Leader looked at Hyuga Shinichi and asked with a smile, "Hahahaha! May I call you Shinichi-kun?"
Hyuga Shinichi didn't mind the Old Leader's familiarity, so he smiled and nodded in agreement.
After receiving Hyuga Shinichi's affirmative answer, the Old Leader continued, "Well, I've been talking so much that I've only just realized—Mifune, please show Shinichi-kun