The lingering warmth of the Lantern Festival completely faded with the first glimmer of dawn.
The members of Root returned to its usual rhythm of efficient, calm operations.
Root Underground Base, office.
Naruto Uzumaki had changed back into his signature black uniform, devoid of any unnecessary decoration, and sat at the head of the table.
Before him stood Nara Shikage and Zero.
"Report," Naruto said.
Nara Shikage stepped forward and placed a report on the desk.
"Commissar, this is the financial summary for all our channels as of last night."
"The preliminary returns from the Land of Hot Water's National Revitalization Fund, combined with arms trade profits from Kumogakure, Iwagakure, and other countries, minus the current expenditures of all projects, have left us with 134.2 billion ryo in liquid funds."
Deer Shadow's voice was steady, but even he found the figure somewhat unreal as he reported it.
"Furthermore," he added, "according to estimates, this number will continue to grow by no less than 10 billion ryo per month over the next three months. Our production lines are already operating at capacity, yet orders continue to pour in."
The office fell quiet.
Zero stood with his arms folded and said nothing. Based on what he knew, Naruto would not be pleased by the sight of so much money. If anything, he would be dissatisfied.
Naruto raised his head and looked at Deer Shadow.
"Over 130 billion ryo in liquid funds."
His question was calm, giving no hint of anger or pleasure.
"Deer Shadow, are you showing off your financial management skills to me?"
A cold sweat instantly broke out across Deer Shadow's back.
"I would not dare!"
"Then tell me," Naruto continued, "why is so much money sitting idle in the accounts? Why has the development of new weapons at the