Chapter 163

Sitting on his own throne and observing the discontented faces of the high-ranking officials in Sunagakure, Hitoshi couldn't help but feel exasperated. He wanted to say one thing: wasn't it just a few days late to accompany his girlfriend on a trip? Look at their bitter expressions, as if he owed them an apology.

Taking a moment to collect his thoughts, Hitoshi suppressed his complaints and said, "Ahem, everyone, I am still young and strong, with plenty of physical stamina. I hope you can understand."

But the moment Hitoshi spoke, the anger of those beneath him intensified. They understood him? They understood him well enough, you big-headed fool.

It seemed they were questioning their own ages. The oldest among them was only fifty this year. Yesterday, he spent ten minutes comforting his junior in the northern courtyard.

The world of men is full of egos. Through the angry glares from the higher-ups, Hitoshi understood what they meant.

"Alright, alright, I get it. I misspoke. You're not old, you're still very young. Many of you even have mistresses," Hitoshi said, sarcastically emphasizing his envy and disdain.

He never expected Pakura to have such a low alcohol tolerance, finishing only two glasses of red wine. He didn't even know where Pakura lived. In desperation, he could only take her back to his home.

A young, vigorous man holding onto a beautiful woman with a curvaceous figure—what more could he ask for?

Hitoshi believed he was a good man and vowed never to go out and play again once he had a wife. At this moment, a wave of envy washed over him.

"Kazekage-sama, let's proceed with the meeting. We have many important matters to discuss," Ebizo couldn't contain himself any longer. Everyone present seemed to be in a miserable relationship status.

"Yes, let's begin the meeting. Ebizo-sama, you can start with today's agenda," Hitoshi said nonchalantly.

After all, he could fight, lead this group of people, and ensure they ate well. They couldn't do anything to him.

"We need to address the handling of Roran and the management of the overseas islands," Ebizo began, only to be interrupted by Hitoshi.

"Wait, what's the issue with the overseas islands?" Hitoshi asked, bewildered by the sudden topic.

"The news came in yesterday. Due to Iwagakure's withdrawal from the war, we have some spare troops. According to our previous arrangements, we have taken control of the coastal islands," Ebizo explained, revealing his assumption that Hitoshi wasn't aware of the situation.

Finally understanding why everyone had been giving him resentful looks, Hitoshi realized he had missed a major task by being absent from work.

"Ahem, I see now. There are other matters as well," Hitoshi awkwardly laughed, using his cheekiness as a shield.

The others rolled their eyes, vaguely indicating their displeasure.

"Another pressing matter concerns the issues and rewards related to the various regions under our control during this war," Ebizo said, his eyes reflecting a mix of relief and resentment.

"Let's address these three issues one by one. First, let's discuss Roran, the ancient country," Hitoshi nodded and took charge, speaking first.

"I propose that Roran becomes our subordinate influence, paying taxes and granting us various privileges. We will oversee their governance and administration since we lack sufficient talent," Hitoshi declared.

"So, what you're suggesting is that Roran becomes a subordinate influence with the existing leadership intact, and we take charge of their management," an elder confirmed solemnly.

"Yes, exactly," Hitoshi replied simply.

"That's not entirely impossible, but what about the people of Sunagakure?" an elder from the Shinōbi Clan raised a valid concern, considering their own interests.

"Our internal influence in Sunagakure already has its own Chamber of Commerce. We can allow Roran to conduct business with them, offering tax incentives and other benefits," Hitoshi explained, having prepared for this response.

As the people below heard Hitoshi's proposal, they began discussing amongst themselves.

"We agree."

"That sounds reasonable. Go grab those benefits for yourself, and no one can blame you."

"Yes, we agree."

....

The discussions progressed quickly, and the distribution of Roran's resources was fairly reasonable. At the very least, no one was in a position to resist.

"Now, let's move on to the next topic: the overseas islands. They possess valuable natural resources, which require development and utilization," Ebizo said after receiving unanimous agreement on the previous issue.

"We'll contract the islands, establish auctions, and allow development while paying tribute to the Hidden Villages. How does that sound?" Hitoshi proposed after contemplating for a while.

The moment Hitoshi spoke, everyone in the room became excited, their eyes filled with joy. They loved this idea as it allowed them to make some extra money.

"We agree."

"Count me in."

"Agreed."

Each person present voiced their agreement, their delight evident.

With everyone in agreement, Ebizo was about to move on to the next issue when Hitoshi interrupted him.

"For the third matter, anyone who has made mistakes or betrayed us should be arrested and sent to the islands as laborers. Those who betray us should meet Rikudō Sennin," Hitoshi's eyes flashed with ruthlessness.

Hitoshi knew that there were individuals who couldn't resist temptation and might rebel once sent to the islands. Since Ebizo brought up the issue, it was evident that there were quite a few such individuals.

Neither Ebizo nor the others had the authority to make a decision regarding them. They didn't dare to handle it casually.

"However, Kazekage-sama, this involves personnel matters," Ebizo hesitated, even he needed to consider the personnel issue.

"Hmph, don't hesitate. These people are given all the opportunities, such as the distribution in Roran and the development of the islands. Yet they still succumb to the slightest temptation and hinder our grand plan. What's the use of keeping them?" Hitoshi's words shocked everyone present, knowing what they needed to do and abandoning their previous plans.

"Understood," Ebizo sighed and said no more, returning to his seat.

He had wanted to plead for mercy on behalf of those individuals, but as Hitoshi said, it wasn't Sunagakure who had wronged them—it was they who had wronged Sunagakure. In that case, there was nothing more to discuss.

If they could resist temptation, they would have a brighter future.

"Of course, we are not unreasonable people. Those who have performed well should be given the opportunity to clean up and prepare for employment in Sunagakure. Their rewards must not be lacking, and promotions and salary increases are a must," Hitoshi's expression softened slightly as he continued.