Gekko Hayate naturally recognized the man before him. Ever since hearing the legends about this great man, he had longed to visit him.
Besides being the head of the Namikaze Clan and a legendary figure whose strength was unfathomable, Namikaze Sui also held the respected title of Commoner Mentor.
The students he had taught-Might Guy, Kakashi Hatake, Kabuto, and others-were all considered commoner ninja in Konoha, yet every one of them possessed formidable strength.
Moreover, the Namikaze Clan itself was a clan of commoner ninja, and it had always made it known that it welcomed talented, like-minded commoner ninja into its ranks.
Having now advanced to Chunin, Gekko Hayate naturally knew that turbulent undercurrents lurked beneath Konoha's peaceful surface.
The great clans, powerful factions, and even the commoners had their own camps, all embroiled in complicated struggles, some out in the open and others in the shadows.
The most alarming of these concerned the Uchiha Clan.
"Gekko Hayate?"
As all these tangled thoughts ran through his mind, River's voice reached him.
"Yes, Lord Sui!"
"You-you've finally returned to the village!"
"I... I was wondering whether I could visit you."
Gekko Hayate was so excited that he could barely get his words out, looking nervous and apprehensive.
He actually possessed a kekkei genkai himself, but he did not know how to use it. That was why he had always wanted to seek guidance from someone.
And of all the ninja in Konoha he could think of who were willing to teach commoners, Lord Sui before him seemed to be the only one.
"Of course."
River quickly grasped his meaning and replied with a smile.
"But I need to take Naruto home first. Could you come to my courtyard tomorrow morning?"
Having received an affirmative answer, Gekko Hayate immediately said excitedly, "Thank