Inside the Uzushio Village Council Hall, a long negotiating table stood neatly arranged.
The two delegations sat on opposite sides: Konoha's negotiating representatives on one side, members of the Uzumaki Clan's council of elders on the other.
Uzumaki Ashina sat at the far end of the table, his hands folded flat on its surface. His knuckles were thick and powerful, and age spots of varying shades covered the backs of his hands, bearing witness to his long years.
The Konoha Government Official gently slid the printed draft agreement in front of Ashina.
"Konoha will help Uzushio Village comprehensively reinforce its defensive barrier. The entire Combat Engineering Squad will arrive and begin work within one month."
"In return, the Uzumaki Clan will send six outstanding young clan members to Konoha for an educational exchange. They will prepare to depart within three months."
"During the exchange, Konoha will cover all tuition, accommodation, and meal expenses. We will also provide access to some of our Sealing Jutsu research materials as a reciprocal contribution."
"Once the exchange period ends, all students may freely choose whether to remain in Konoha or return to the Land of Whirlpools."
"The core of this agreement is mutual benefit. Konoha will provide security guarantees and technical support, while the Land of Whirlpools retains full autonomy throughout."
Ashina did not look down at the draft on the table.
He raised his eyes and quietly stared at the official before him, remaining silent for a long time.
"Hiruzen Sarutobi sent you."
"Lord Hokage has given me full authority to handle every aspect of these negotiations," the official replied solemnly.
"Full authority..."
Ashina repeated the words under his breath, then turned to glance at the two elders on his left.
The First Elder had white hair and a white beard. His eyelids