The Hokage Office was located on the top floor of the administrative building. The spacious room was filled with scrolls and documents. The young Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, stood before the window, sunlight gilding his upright figure. Utatane Koharu and Homura Mitokado sat on either side, thick ledgers spread open before them.
"Neji, you're here. Sit," Hiruzen said as he turned around, wearing a warm smile.
After paying his respects, Neji took a seat and swept his gaze across the three of them. Though Hiruzen was only in his early thirties, he already carried the bearing of the future "Professor of Ninjutsu." Koharu's calculating eyes flickered faintly, while Homura wore a stern expression, his fingers continuously tapping against his knee.
"The Medical Talisman's effects exceeded expectations," Hiruzen said without preamble. "Reports from the front indicate that the casualty rate has fallen by fifteen percentage points."
Koharu adjusted her glasses. "But the cost is still too high. The treasury can't bear it if we equip troops on a large scale."
"Ninja Talisman Hall can reduce its profit margin by another ten percent," Neji said, clearly prepared. "On the condition that the Hokage Office supports the ninja academy in offering Ninja Talisman courses."
The three exchanged glances. Homura was the first to ask, "Are you certain you want to make Ninja Talisman techniques public? That amounts to giving up your monopoly."
"Techniques need to be passed down," Neji said, his voice calm yet resolute. "Besides, profits from basic Ninja Talismans are already reaching saturation. Ninja Talisman Hall's future lies in high-end customization and specialized research."
A trace of approval flashed through Hiruzen's eyes. "How will you solve the issue of teaching staff?"
"Ninja Talisman Hall can provide teaching materials and junior instructors. I'll personally handle the advanced courses." Neji paused. "Of course,