Fire District, Pangaea Castle.
Taiji Palace.
Tetsuhiro reclined on the throne, flanked by Tobirama and Madara. Their imposing presence weighed heavily on the officials below.
Those in the outer court were filled with awe and dared not let their guard slip for even a moment.
Even Queen Mito Uzumaki, Crown Prince and Revenue Department Minister Senju Shumao, Crown Princess Reiko, Uchiha Hikari, and Otsutsuki Toneri dared not overstep their bounds on such an occasion.
Of course, there was one exception.
Space tore open, revealing a rift.
A figure slowly emerged, her long white hair trailing behind her.
A bell-like voice rang out. "Hashirama, you've finally decided to come back."
It was Kaguya.
The one person who made Tetsuhiro and Hagoromo set aside their usual generational relationships.
"Yes. Sorry for the wait." Tetsuhiro smiled and beckoned. Ignoring everyone else, Kaguya settled onto his lap and nestled into his embrace.
"Hmph." Mito was a little displeased.
Tetsuhiro pinched Kaguya's cheek and told her, "Go wait down there for now. We still have business to attend to."
"All right... but hurry up."
Once Kaguya had moved to the front row and stood shoulder to shoulder with Mito and the others, Tobirama formally declared the meeting open.
First, the Cabinet's Chief Advisor, Sarutobi Sasuke, reported on recent developments across the Shinobi World in public welfare, technology, environmental protection, and other areas.
Next, Finance Minister Senju Toka reported on the country's overall economic development, total economic growth, and related matters.
Minister of State Affairs Hyuga Rihui reported in Reto's stead on education across the Shinobi World, the establishment of schools, and the spread of knowledge.
Capital Prefect and Fire District Governor Shimura Tenzo addressed the Fire District's safety and prosperity, focusing specifically on basic public services such as access to electricity and monthly electricity expenses.