บท 25: Chapter 25
"Please maintain order and stay on the right side as you disembark. There's plenty of space for everyone, so don't worry. Sunagakure will take care of all the arrangements," instructed the Suna Shinōbi standing on the platform as the ship docked at the port. The passengers followed the instructions, calmly disembarking in an orderly manner.
"Mom, where are we? Is this our new home?" asked a timid red-haired little girl, tightly holding her mother's hand, as they gazed at the unfamiliar surroundings of Sunagakure.
"Yes, my dear, this is Kaze no Kuni. It's where we will live from now on," her mother replied with determination.
Though women may be seen as vulnerable, mothers possess incredible strength.
The girl's mother understood that after her husband's sacrifice for them, she had to be strong and provide for their family.
"May I help you, beautiful lady and lovely little girl? Allow me to guide you to your new residence," a handsome young Suna Shinōbi approached them with a warm smile, sensing their unease and confusion.
Both the woman and the girl, having just experienced the devastation of their previous lives, remained cautious and guarded in this unfamiliar environment, even towards the kind-hearted Shinōbi before them.
Observing the heartwarming scene, the handsome Suna Shinōbi remained patient and continued to comfort the mother and daughter with gentle words, occasionally sharing jokes to lighten the atmosphere. Under his comforting presence, the two gradually let go of their initial wariness.
Meanwhile, on the other side, a young and attractive Suna Shinōbi called out loudly, inviting Lord and child to join him and a group that had gathered nearby. Thanks to the preparations made by the Suna Shinōbi and the efforts of Uzumaki Akisawa and Uzumaki Homura, the people from Uzumaki Clan were physically and mentally exhausted, lacking the energy to resist. Everything proceeded smoothly, without any disruptions.
Curiosity getting the better of him, Uzumaki Homura questioned Uzumaki Akisawa about the seemingly high standards of Sunagakure's residents. "It's strange. Aren't the people of Sunagakure supposed to be handsome men and beautiful women?"
Uzumaki Akisawa shared the same perplexity, wondering why things were different here. "I don't know. Maybe the desert environment makes their skin rough."
Uzumaki Homura looked at Uzumaki Akisawa, slightly baffled. It was the first time he had witnessed his fellow clansman being so direct.
"Um, my lords, could you please lower your voices? And as for living in the desert, it's true that our skin may not be as delicate and beautiful. Please forgive me for any inconvenience," a young Suna Kunoichi, with a tic-tac-toe marking on her forehead, politely interjected with a gentle smile.
The overwhelming sense of hostility emanating from her made those nearby quickly retreat, sensing the need for strategic withdrawal.
"I apologize for our lack of manners, Miss. Could you please enlighten us on why the young and attractive Suna Shinōbi have come to welcome us?" Uzumaki Homura, who had stopped speaking, interrupted and quickly added with a smile, trying to rectify the situation.
Casting a satisfied glance at Uzumaki Akisawa, Uzumaki Homura felt a sense of relief. The young Suna Kunoichi, Minami, introduced herself as a member of the Kana Clan in Sunagakure and explained the reasoning behind the emphasis on youth, beauty, and handsomeness.
She revealed that it was a decision made by Kazekage-sama, who believed that people are naturally drawn to attractive individuals, and that such impressions foster harmony and unity between parties.
Uzumaki Akisawa and Uzumaki Homura exchanged glances, sharing a sense of resignation. Though the explanation seemed powerful, it was undeniably accurate.
The well-trained younger Suna Shinōbi and elder sisters smiled warmly, engaging in gentle conversation with the members of Uzumaki Clan. Even the children, comforted by their friendly demeanor, began to smile.
The two Uzumaki representatives had to admit that the decision to prioritize youth, beauty, and handsomeness for the reception was the most appropriate and effective choice.
"Minami, could you share some stories about Kazekage-sama with us?" Uzumaki Akisawa quickly inquired, adopting an approach of understanding one's allies and enemies.
Recognizing the curiosity of the newcomers, Minami started explaining what Hitoshi had accomplished, recounting the notable events and achievements of Kazekage-sama.
"I must say, Kazekage-sama is truly perceptive," Uzumaki Homura expressed with a hint of anticipation. In their minds, both of them had envisioned Hitoshi as a handsome young man, a figure who rose to the occasion in times of crisis, taking up the great task of leading Sunagakure. They believed he possessed strategic brilliance and an impeccable image of surpassing a thousand li.
Seeing the bigger picture and being able to assess a person's abilities in the world, even if not entirely seeing through them, was the notion shared by the two.
"That's true. Kazekage-sama always sees himself as someone who values appearances, so he expects the same from others. He also emphasizes the importance of reading more, eating fewer snacks, and getting sufficient sleep to enhance one's intelligence," Minami replied nonchalantly, shrugging her shoulders. Having undergone a lengthy process of indoctrination, her perception of Hitoshi had become firmly established. Therefore, she paid little mind to what the two newcomers thought of him.
Led by Minami, Uzumaki Akisawa and Uzumaki Homura observed as Ebizo, Yasuke, Bunpuku, and the others disembarked from the ship and disappeared from sight.
"Mr. Akisawa, Mr. Homura, let's discuss your arrangements now. What are your plans moving forward? Feel free to share, as I have not had the opportunity to properly receive you due to my busy schedule. As a form of compensation, I can offer you some insights," Ebizo explained in one fell swoop as the two of them took their seats.
"We have already familiarized ourselves with certain aspects of Sunagakure, and we intend to focus on the path of Medical-Ninjutsu. Our aim is to popularize Medical-Ninjutsu among the general population," Uzumaki Akisawa glanced at Uzumaki Homura and conveyed their prepared plans.
Curious to know Ebizo's thoughts, Uzumaki Akisawa continued, "Yes, Medical-Ninjutsu. Kazekage-sama has always emphasized that medical care is a crucial aspect of infrastructure and essential for the growth of influence. If we can advance the medical development of Sunagakure, it would surely please Kazekage-sama."
Ebizo, contemplating the concept, tapped his fingers on the table. "A commendable approach. However, I must inquire why the development of Medical-Ninjutsu was chosen. For most influences, this remains unexplored territory."
Ebizo's confusion was genuine. He was not joking. Many Ninja Villages, apart from Sunagakure and Konoha, have not made significant strides in the field of Medical-Ninjutsu.
"We are grateful for Elder-sama's guidance, which inspired us to consider this path. Upon observing the development of Sunagakure, we recognized its potential. As for the foundation of our plans, we have drawn inspiration from Shōdai Hokage. While our research with Lady Mito is incomplete, we can still make valuable contributions," Uzumaki Akisawa explained with a smile.
Ebizo, who had yet to dismiss their proposal, seemed to be receptive. His judgment would depend on which slice of the pie they were seeking and whether it aligned with Sunagakure's interests. The fact that Ebizo had not explicitly rejected their plans indicated that Uzumaki Akisawa and Uzumaki Homura had made the right bet.
Ebizo couldn't conceal his envy as he openly remarked, "You have access to valuable natural resources."
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