Turning the Tables

Long Ye first went to report to the Fourth Hokage, Minato Namikaze. After receiving his permission, he left Konohagakure without delay.

At the same time.

In an underground chamber somewhere in Konoha.

"Leader, we have just received news. That kid accepted a mission from Minato Namikaze and left Konoha. It seems he is heading for Kirigakure in the Land of Water!"

A man wearing a White Mask respectfully reported to a black silhouette.

"Kirigakure?"

The silhouette muttered to himself.

The masked man said, "Yesterday, Minato Namikaze received a letter from Kirigakure proposing the restoration of friendly exchanges between the two countries. I suspect he may have sent him to respond to Kirigakure."

The silhouette shook his head. "It is not that simple. Would they send an Elite Jonin in person merely to deliver a letter?"

He fell silent for a moment before seeming to speak to himself.

"This Long Ye is extremely strange. Even his Kekkei Genkai is unimaginable. He was once a worthless brat, yet in just three years, he has grown into an Elite Jonin. Such growth is truly terrifying!"

"There must be some unknown secret hidden within this brat. No wonder that person has told me more than once that he wants this man's body for research and is willing to pay such a price."

"Leader! Should I send someone to capture him in secret?" the masked man asked cautiously.

The silhouette was silent for a moment. Seemingly unable to give up the benefits promised by the person he had mentioned, he ultimately nodded.

"His Lightning-Escape Body Flash is no weaker than Shisui's Body Flicker Technique. Ordinary people cannot handle him. Send the Five-Man Group! Remember, capture him alive!"

As he spoke, the black silhouette turned around.

Half of the man's head was wrapped in bandages, and