"To draw a manga myself?" Ren was momentarily stunned by the request, falling silent for a while.
Chiara Rinjin didn't seem to mind Ren's reaction and continued, "I want you to help me create a manga with a ninja theme..."
Chiara Rinjin began explaining why he wanted a ninja-themed manga.
It turned out that the Chiara family had been protectors of the Emperor as ninja in ancient times. However, in modern times, the ninja profession had gradually declined. Even the Chiara family, once protectors of the Emperor, had abandoned ninja training in favor of careers in politics and business. After all, ninjas needed to earn a living too.
But in the current generation, Chiara Rinjin was a big fan of ninjas. He loved the concept, but couldn't endure the rigorous training himself. So, he wanted to combine the ninja profession with his favorite medium: manga. That's why he sought out Ren.
It sounded a bit unbelievable, but it was the truth. Rich people indeed have peculiar interests.
"So, Mr. Porter, please help me!" Chiara Rinjin looked at Ren with sincere eyes.
"I can, but..." Ren hesitated and asked, "Why me?"
Ren was still a bit doubtful. He knew his own capabilities. He had confidence in his works because they were based on successful stories from his previous life. But why would Chiara Rinjin choose him?
His fame in China was substantial, but in Japan, his most famous work was the recently released "Ultraman Tiga." If Chiara Rinjin was looking for a manga artist, wouldn't it make more sense to choose one from Japan or one of the top-tier artists from China? Why him?
"Because I've read your works, Mr. Porter," Chiara Rinjin smiled and explained. "From 'Your Name' to 'Cooking Master Boy,' 'Bleach,' 'Madoka Magica,' 'Fullmetal Alchemist,' and 'Ultraman Tiga,' I've read them all. While there are many more famous manga artists, you are incredibly innovative!"
"You break the conventional thinking around existing genres with your manga!" Chiara Rinjin signaled a maid to refill his drink. After taking a sip, he continued, "You turned a magical girl series into something dark, made alchemists cool in 'Fullmetal Alchemist,' redefined the image of grim reapers in 'Bleach,' and introduced giant heroes with 'Ultraman.' I hope you can make ninjas exciting again!"
Yes, this was why he valued Ren. Ren's ability to create compelling characters and innovative storylines far surpassed other manga artists.
"Current ninjas?" Ren was puzzled. He hadn't seen many ninja-themed works since arriving in this world.
"They're like this, using smoke bombs and such for assassination," Chiara Rinjin said, showing Ren his tablet.
The ninjas depicted were similar to the shadow warriors in "Jackie Chan Adventures" from Ren's previous life.
"Of course," Chiara Rinjin explained, "I didn't just invite you. I've also invited other manga artists. Three months from now, submit your preliminary character designs and story outline. The money is negotiable, and I only want to see the manga published. As for the profits, I don't care. They belong to you."
Hearing this, Ren finally relaxed. This made more sense. Such a good opportunity wouldn't be offered to just one person.
"So, Mr. Porter, what do you think? Here's the deposit. If you succeed, there will be more to come." Chiara Rinjin handed Ren a check and waited for his response.
Ren glanced at the amount on the check and fell into deep thought.
A ninja manga... He had one in mind.
Over the past few months, the system had provided many manga options. One of the big three from his previous life, "Naruto," was among them, and Ren had redeemed it.
He had been modifying it to create "Immortal Ninja," changing elements like ninja pills to elixirs and explosive tags to thunderstones. He even researched ancient weapons to replace some of the original items.
Honestly, Ren was reluctant to revert it to the original "Naruto" storyline. But the offered amount was substantial...
Looking at the check, Ren felt tempted.
Moreover, the post-publication profits would still belong to him. This deal was too good to pass up.
"I agree!"
After two seconds of thought, Ren finally nodded.
It wasn't about the money! No, definitely not! He was just moved by Chiara Rinjin's sincerity.
However, he would have to discard his previous work and start anew.
The timeline would need significant adjustments.
There were quite a few plot holes created by the original author.
Ren also wanted to make several changes to the storyline.
For example, Neji's death. It's not that Neji couldn't die, but his death should be more emotional. He was one of the twelve main characters, after all.
Instead, his death was somewhat comical, killed by wooden stakes. Considering how much time they had to save Naruto, why didn't anyone think to move him? Neji could've just been severely injured instead.
It wasn't just about avoiding death. Characters like Gai and Kakashi had flashbacks when they faced death.
"Then it's a deal," Chiara Rinjin smiled upon hearing Ren's agreement.
"A deal."
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