Naruto: Shinobi Payday Novel

Zeldris was once Konoha's most talented prodigy—intelligent, attractive, and arrogant enough to match his abilities. After a catastrophic mission resulted in his expulsion from the village, his life seemed to have reached its lowest point. That changes when the Ninja World Mercenary System activates, granting him the ability to accept contracts from anyone willing to pay: kage, criminals, or ordinary civilians. His services come with a price tag, and Zeldris has no allegiances beyond his fee. When Pain requests assistance capturing the Tailed Beasts, Zeldris quotes a rate per tail. Orochimaru's proposal to destroy Konoha is rejected not on principle but on the grounds that his former village affiliation complicates the job—though the price could change his mind. Even Kakuzu, accustomed to the Akatsuki's compensation structure, finds himself impressed by Zeldris's superior benefits package. Zeldris pursues wealth rather than heroics, profiting while the ninja world faces crisis. In his philosophy, loyalty is negotiable but payment is mandatory.