En no Gyōja laughed. "What's our relationship? Our families have watched out for each other for years. We're old friends."
Ever since Torikaze first approached the Tsuchigumo Clan to make parts, the two clans had begun close business dealings.
By now, the Tsuchigumo Clan had become a prominent clan in Konoha.
Although its strength was only above average within the village, with En no Gyōja as such a formidable trump card, it was still not to be underestimated.
In the decades since joining Konoha, the clan had thoroughly integrated into the village and been fully accepted by it. There was no difference between them and the other founding clans.
"Brother, hurry inside. The clan heads are all in there. I still need to greet the guests, so we can talk later."
En no Gyōja nodded. "All right. Today is just a small gathering. The Tsuchigumo Clan's gift will be delivered at the full-month banquet two days from now."
Amado laughed upon hearing that, then said, "It's the thought that counts. There's no need to prepare any gifts."
"Hey, one thing is one thing."
The Tsuchigumo Clan had flourished in Konoha entirely because of its clan head, En no Gyōja.
He was exceptionally adept at managing social relationships.
Leading his clan into Konoha when he was young could be said to have been the wisest choice he had ever made.
"All right, all right, brother, go on in and have a seat. We don't have much to offer today, but there are plenty of snacks and tea."
En no Gyōja laughed. He had not come here for the food.
While delivering gifts, he could also interact with the other clans. Such opportunities were extremely rare.
A qualified clan head would never give up any opportunity to benefit his clan.
Thus, En