Chapter 99: Where’s My Beautiful Instructor?

"Lord Third Hokage, since I've provided you with information about the Akatsuki, can we now proceed with my genjutsu training?" Shishou said with a smile, addressing the Third Hokage after he finished examining the pictures.

Uncertain about the fate of Zabuza Momochi, Shishou only provided information on Uchiha Itachi this time.

"Of course, Mr. Lurigan, but perhaps you could rest today, and I will arrange for a genjutsu instructor to meet you tomorrow?" The Third Hokage proposed, despite feeling somewhat frustrated that the information brought by Shishou was of limited use.

Time was of the essence for Shishou, so he shook his head and rejected the Hokage's suggestion. "Time is pressing; let's start this afternoon. We can meet at the stone bridge in the forest outside the village."

The Third Hokage, interpreting Shishou's urgency as a precaution against Konoha, nodded in agreement. They arranged to meet at 2 PM, and Shishou quickly departed from Konoha.

After Shishou left, the Third Hokage summoned an ANBU member. "Go find Kurenai Yuhi..."

"What did you say? She's not available?"

Meanwhile, Shishou had arrived at the stone bridge in the forest outside Konoha. He checked the surroundings and then settled on a large tree branch, waiting patiently.

He was certain that Kurenai Yuhi would be his genjutsu instructor. With the Uchiha clan decimated, Kurenai was Konoha's only renowned genjutsu expert, which was why he hadn't specified her by name—there simply was no other option.

In three years, Kurenai would also become the jonin instructor for Hinata, Kiba, and Shino.

As for Shishou, he planned to apply for early graduation and then live as an ordinary genin in Konoha.

"I wonder how strong Kurenai Yuhi is now. Has she become an elite jonin?" Shishou mused. "It's a shame, though, that her genjutsu will always be overshadowed by Uchiha Itachi's Sharingan."

Resting on the tree branch, Shishou let his thoughts wander.

At 2 PM, Shishou spotted his genjutsu instructor. Seeing the Third Hokage himself, Shishou's expression darkened.

"Lord Third Hokage, what is the meaning of this?" Shishou asked in a low voice.

I asked for the beautiful instructor Kurenai Yuhi, not you, you old geezer! Did you think I spent 35 million ryo to hire you? No way!

"Ah, Mr. Lurigan, you are a distinguished guest of Konoha," the Third Hokage said with an embarrassed cough. "So, I decided to personally instruct you in genjutsu."

With Kurenai Yuhi unavailable and no other jonin proficient in genjutsu, the Third Hokage had to step in himself. However, he wouldn't admit that openly, as it would reveal Konoha's shortage of skilled personnel and potentially discourage Lurigan's investment.

"And what about them?" Shishou pointed to the surrounding ANBU and Konoha shinobi, who were standing around blatantly watching. "Do they think I'm a spectacle to gawk at?"

Even Might Guy was there, giving Shishou a thumbs-up! Didn't he know Shishou had a history of hating his youthful exuberance?

"Lurigan-san, it's been a while!" Might Guy shouted from a distance. "Are you here to experience the power of youth? How about a youthful spar?"

Next to Guy, Kakashi leaned against a tree, engrossed in his Icha Icha book, seemingly indifferent to everything else around him.

"Haha, Mr. Lurigan, don't mind them; they're just here as my escort. With your strength and summoning beast, there's no need to worry about them," the Third Hokage said, attempting to smooth things over.

"Tch," Shishou scoffed at the Hokage's words but couldn't help feeling somewhat flattered. The Third Hokage was treating him with great respect, so Shishou nodded, accepting the explanation.

"Alright, let's begin then," Shishou said, eager to start the training.

The Third Hokage confirmed that Shishou's genjutsu skills were rudimentary, to say the least, and began the lesson. Despite his boastful title of "The Strongest Hokage" post-Kyuubi attack, the Third Hokage truly was a "Professor of Ninjutsu" and an all-rounder who had trained the legendary Sannin. Within a few hours, Shishou's understanding of genjutsu improved significantly, benefiting even the surrounding shinobi like Kakashi.

Of course, the green beast Might Guy was an exception, still immersed in his training, shouting out loud counts as he performed his exercises.

"Lord Third Hokage, let's stop here for today," Shishou said as evening approached. "I'll return here on the last day of each month for genjutsu training and to provide Akatsuki information. Please arrange for someone to meet me then."

The Third Hokage agreed readily. "As you wish, Mr. Lurigan."

Bidding farewell, Shishou glanced at Kakashi and Guy before vanishing with a body flicker.

Just outside the Konoha forest, Shishou remembered he should check with Tenten's family about new chakra metal. Upon learning they didn't have any yet, he left.

As he neared the village gate, Shishou paused, spotting familiar faces.

Isn't that Tsunade and Shizune? Are they finally returning to Konoha?

Seeing Tsunade and Shizune approaching the village, Shishou felt a surge of excitement. Should he call her 'Tsunade-sensei' now? After all, the Third Hokage was sort of his mentor too...

Thinking these random thoughts, Shishou walked past them, maintaining his disguise as Lurigan.

Tsunade and Shizune, not recognizing him due to his disguise, only glanced at him briefly before continuing towards the village.