Uzumaki Clan Temporary Settlement.
The moment Nangō Kumoi and Kagami Uchiha appeared at the edge of the camp, they saw Clan Head Shui Yuan, supported by Elder Long Yi, leading several dozen core clan members. They stood in neat ranks before a simple temporary archway adorned with the Uzumaki crest.
Clan Head Shui Yuan's face still bore the pallor of someone recovering from severe injuries, but his eyes were bright and his back stood straight.
Kumoi quickened his pace and stepped forward. Before Clan Head Shui Yuan could bow deeply according to formal etiquette, Kumoi reached out to stop him, his tone gentle yet disapproving.
"Clan Head Shui Yuan, everyone, this is far too ceremonious. You're making too much of me. Please, rise."
Clan Head Shui Yuan slowly straightened with the support of Kumoi's gesture. He shook his head, his voice slightly hoarse from weakness but exceptionally clear and resolute.
"Lord Hokage, you are too modest. This is no mere courtesy.
"The Uzumaki Clan can still preserve its bloodline and stand here today only because you and the people of Konoha risked your lives to come to our aid.
"This kindness is akin to giving us life anew. Without Konoha, there would be no Uzumaki left in this world.
"This small welcome ceremony is merely a token of our gratitude. It is not worth mentioning."
Elder Long Yi immediately added, his eyes full of heartfelt gratitude and the excitement of surviving catastrophe.
"The clan head is absolutely right!
"Lord Hokage, if not for your personally leading everyone into danger and driving back our powerful enemies, people like us... would likely have long since returned our souls to our homeland, with our clan wiped out.
"No amount of gratitude could ever repay such a debt."
Seeing how earnest their words were