As their golden figures approached, gasps of surprise spontaneously rose from the crowd below.
The development of the Northern Lands is evident to all, even though these people initially came here under immense pressure.
However, they have now completely changed their minds. In this chaotic world, it is not a bad thing to stick together for warmth.
Moreover, the Northern Lands is developing so well now; in terms of architecture alone, it is no worse than the other Five Great Nations.
Most importantly, their Lord Gold Kage is very kind to the common people. Not only are they well-fed and clothed, but their children can also go to school and have a promising future.
Ignoring the cheers of the crowd, Orochimaru went straight to the ribbon-cutting area, and with a swift stroke of his knife, completed the ceremony with a "snap".
"Good!"
"Lord Gold Kage, I love you!"
Many people cheered and applauded. Orochimaru smiled at the crowd, turned around, and walked into the building.
Pakura and Kakuzu followed suit, while the others maintained order at the scene. The young and beautiful host had already taken the microphone and started introducing the event to the crowd.
This is also one of the manifestations of the relative modernization of the Northern Lands, with microphones, projectors, sound systems, and so on already in use.
"Nice renovation! Looks like the money wasn't wasted!"
On his way upstairs, Orochimaru surveyed the surrounding decor.
The building is 25 stories high, and such a tall building must be equipped with elevators.
The interior design leans towards modern European style, which is quite advanced for the Ninja World.
Customers can feel the luxurious atmosphere as soon as they enter, and they can smell the money everywhere.
"Hello! Lord Gold Kage!"
The receptionist on the first floor, with keen insight, approached Orochimaru and bowed to him and his Orochimaru with a smile.
If it were an ordinary customer, they would probably greet them with "Hello, bosses."
Without further ado, the staff led Orochimaru and his group to the executive elevator, since the entire building was designed by Orochimaru.
"The lower floors house supermarkets, shopping malls, and a few restaurants; these have their own escalators!"
After entering the elevator, Pakura took over the waiter's job and began introducing Orochimaru.
Because the other side of the elevator was transparent, Orochimaru could also see the environment on each floor.
Similar to the shopping mall in my previous life, the lower floors are more down-to-earth, while the sixth floor and above are karaoke bars, quiet bars, and pubs.
The sixteenth to nineteenth floors are the building's biggest money pit—the casino.
There's a hotel upstairs, and of course, it's not cheap either. Generally speaking, the higher the floor, the more money you spend.
Although the structure isn't particularly novel, it's unprecedented in this world.
"That's right, now the Five Great Ninja Villages are like two completely different worlds!"
Even Orochimaru felt like he was back in the modern world in this environment, let alone first-time customers.
"This building alone cost tens of millions of taels of silver, and that's with many things being produced in-house. I don't know when we'll break even!"
Kakuzu suddenly started complaining, saying that huge sums of money were flowing out of his hands every day, and he felt incredibly heartbroken.
If it weren't for the greater good, I would have quit long ago!
"Don't take on a job you're not qualified for! Every business requires investment!"
Orochimaru didn't take his words seriously. This kind of business, which was extremely profitable, required a large initial investment, but the returns were definitely substantial.
Once this place gains a reputation, there's no need to worry about a lack of customers.
He also said that there are so many customers that they will probably have to build all sorts of branches in the outer city.
As they chatted, the elevator arrived at the 25th floor. This floor was reserved for management personnel; such a large enterprise needed someone to oversee it.
"The areas outside are for staff offices; these two offices are reserved for us!"
Pakura stepped out of the elevator first, and, wearing high heels, introduced the situation of this floor.
The two well-equipped offices were prepared for these key personnel, and at least one person was usually stationed there.
They are responsible for security not only for this building, but also for the outer city.
Although the Northern Land Security Department exists, it is necessary to have an extra layer of security. Don't forget that this is the highest point in the Northern Lands, and also the outermost edge of the Northern Lands.
"I never imagined that I, Kakuzu, would be able to enjoy the view from such a high place in my lifetime!"
Kakuzu didn't stand on ceremony and plopped down on the sofa. He didn't learn anything good, but he did learn the Ge You slouch.
"Tch... Look at your pathetic self!"
Pakura chuckled and brought Orochimaru a cup of hot tea.
Looking down at the dense crowd below through the glass of the window, Orochimaru was also filled with emotion.
"No one will support my lofty ambitions; I will tread the snow to the mountain peak myself. If fate does not grant me such fortune, I can still Kunlun alone!"
Taking a sip of tea, it's a little bitter, a little fragrant, and a little sweet.
Just like all the ups and downs he's experienced along the way, he hasn't changed anything over the years.
But why would he want to change other people's fates? Was it because he was overflowing with compassion? Or because he couldn't stand by and watch?
When he was weak, everything he did was simply to survive better.
If you want to change something or turn the tide, you must first have the strength. This world where the strong prey on the weak and strength reigns supreme is not something that some people can just wish for.
Time travel like it's a game? Are you kidding me? People will die!
"You've already done a remarkable job to reach this level!"
As if hearing Orochimaru's murmur, Pakura crossed his arms and stood to the side, overlooking the entire Northern Lands.
After a pause, Pakura turned her head back to Orochimaru, a gentle and intellectual smile appearing on her beautiful face.
"Besides, you are not alone anymore. You have us behind you, thousands of ninjas and tens of thousands of residents!"
Orochimaru paused slightly in the teacup he was holding, his long-unchanged emotions wavering, and his heart skipped a beat.
An indescribable feeling welled up in his heart, nourishing his lonely soul.
Yes, he's no longer fighting alone; he has a whole bunch of like-minded partners now.
Above them are pillars like Hozuki Mangetsu and Kisame, in the middle are Guren and Anko who are about to grow up, and in the new generation are Kimimaro and Haku, among others.
Unlike Uchiha Madara, whose Susanoo stood a thousand meters in front of him, with no one behind him!
He now appears to be thriving and full of vitality.
"Thanks!"
Orochimaru also gave Pakura a genuine smile, feeling that the responsibility on his shoulders had become even heavier.
"Hey! If you really want to thank me, make me a few plates of monkfish liver tonight!"
Before Pakura could say anything more, the clueless Kakuzu, standing to the side, presumptuously spoke up.
This instantly ruined the almost tearful atmosphere, and Pakura's face visibly darkened.
With her phoenix eyes glaring at Kakuzu, she had already secretly made a fuss about him, knowing she would inevitably whisper in Orochimaru's ear in the future!
"Alright! It's a good day, and I haven't cooked in ages, so let's all get together tonight!"