The streets near Konoha's gates had been swept spotless, with seasonal flowers even placed along both sides to welcome the distinguished guest who would soon arrive in Konoha.
Hiruzen Sarutobi wore the Hokage's conical hat and the white ceremonial robe symbolizing his status as Hokage.
With a perfectly measured smile on his face, he stood at the very front of the welcoming party in person.
Though he was the leader of a village and commanded formidable military power, before the "financial backer" who funded the village's operations—
In other words, the Land of Fire's Daimyo, he had no choice but to lower his stance somewhat.
After all, every one of Konoha's expenditures depended on the Daimyo's financial support, and military force could not directly solve funding issues.
Though shinobi who had assassinated Daimyos existed in the history of the shinobi world, neither Hiruzen Sarutobi nor the leaders of the Five Great Nations had ever entertained such thoughts—or rather, they simply did not dare to.
A few minutes later.
The dignified-looking Daimyo of the Land of Fire slowly entered, surrounded by ministers and guards.
Holding an open folding fan and gently waving it, he cast a faintly critical gaze over both sides of the street. In his usual lofty tone, he said, "Third, it has been a long time. Konoha seems to have been managed quite well. Everything is orderly and bustling."
"Your praise honors us, Lord Daimyo. Konoha's stability, prosperity, and development would be impossible without your support."
Hiruzen Sarutobi bowed slightly and replied mildly. "Mm..." The Daimyo lightly tapped his chin with his fan, as though recalling something. "I heard that fifteen people passed this Chunin Exams, and twelve of them were Konoha shinobi?"
"With such a high proportion, it seems Konoha's new generation is full of talent."
The