Naruto: Shinobi Payday Novel

Zeldris earned his standing as Konoha's supreme prodigy—masterfully talented, devastatingly attractive, and supremely confident. One catastrophic mission obliterated his reputation, leading to his expulsion from the village. When desperation took hold, the Ninja World Mercenary System awakened within him.

This revolutionary system permits Zeldris to pursue contracts from anyone—Kage, criminal syndicates, or desperate commoners—provided compensation meets his standards. Pain seeks his assistance: "Help me acquire the Tailed Beasts!" Zeldris counters: "Each tail costs separately." Orochimaru extends an offer: "Obliterate Konoha with me." Zeldris hesitates: "That's complicated—Konoha is my birthplace!" Orochimaru presses: "So you decline?" Zeldris smirks: "Not necessarily. Simply increase the payment." Even Kakuzu finds himself rattled. Kakuzu stammers: "His benefits surpass Akatsuki's?"

Zeldris harbors no desire to save the world from destruction. He simply profits enormously while civilization collapses around him. Within the ninja realm, loyalty proves expendable. Revenue proves indispensable.