Shikato walked beside Kumoi, holding a report on the West District's construction progress. At his words, he nodded.
"Seventy percent of the main buildings in the workshop district have been completed. The residential area is progressing even faster; the first batch of Uzumaki Clan homes is already ready for occupancy."
Hiruzen Sarutobi looked at the bustling construction sites and sighed.
"It's only been a few months, yet the changes have come so quickly."
"It's mainly because the Uzumaki Clan's Sealing Jutsu workshops have driven the entire West District industrial chain."
Shikato opened the report.
"The Barrier Foundations and Sealing Scrolls they produce are already in short supply.
Several merchant guilds have come asking whether we can expand production capacity."
Kumoi smiled. "No rush. We'll take it one step at a time."
As the three talked, the entrance to the Uzumaki Lands came into view ahead.
A group of people was waiting there.
Shui Yuan Uzumaki stood at the front, with dozens of Uzumaki clansmen behind him, young and old alike.
They wore neat clan uniforms, their faces filled with expectant, grateful smiles.
When Kumoi and the other two drew near, Shui Yuan quickly stepped forward and bowed deeply.
"Lord Hokage! Advisor Sarutobi! Nara Clan Leader!"
His voice was somewhat excited. "Welcome to your inspection of the West District!"
Kumoi stepped forward to help him up, smiling.
"Clan Leader Shui Yuan, there's no need for such formality.
I came today to see how everyone is doing and how the workshops are progressing."
Shui Yuan straightened, his eyes reddening slightly.
"Thanks to Lord Hokage, everyone is doing well! Far better... far better than before!"
He stepped aside and gestured ahead.
"Please, Lord Hokage! I'll show you around!"
Kumoi nodded and, with Hiruzen and Shikato, followed Shui Yuan into the Uzumaki Lands.
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