Konoha, Hokage's Office.
Naruto Uzumaki appeared in the office in an instant.
Nara Shikaku, who had been handling official business there, immediately set down the documents in his hands upon seeing Naruto return, rose to his feet, and stepped forward to report.
"Hokage-sama, Lady Tsunade arrived in Konoha some time ago."
"She thoroughly inspected the village's overall situation and learned in great detail about Konoha Hospital's latest research findings and future development plans. Judging from her reaction, she seemed quite satisfied with them."
Naruto walked to the window and looked down at the prosperous village below. "Where is she now?"
Shikaku pondered briefly before replying, "At this hour... she's probably at Konoha Hospital."
"Ever since Lady Tsunade returned to Konoha and expressed her approval of the changes here, she has frequently visited Konoha Hospital. She leaves early and returns late almost every day. From what I've learned, she appears to be conducting in-depth research into certain medical Ninjutsu."
"I understand. Continue." Naruto nodded.
It seemed Granny Tsunade had basically accepted the future direction and reforms he was leading. Things were progressing smoothly for now, so he could set that matter aside.
Shikaku picked up a scroll beside the desk, looked it over, and continued his report. "Lady Uchiha Hikari has already led the special unit to the Land of Grass. With her strength, there should be no problem completing the mission within three days."
"We've also received word from Gaara, the Fifth Kazekage of Sunagakure."
"Working together with the aid forces Konoha dispatched, he has gradually changed the mindset of Sunagakure's younger generation of ninja and successfully pushed forward various internal reforms within the village."
"Although openly advocating the abolition of the Daimyo system would still meet with some resistance at present, he guarantees that the portion of the Daimyo