Chapter 254 : Accepting Refugees!!

"Come on, let's head to the Red Republic!"

The already exhausted refugees immediately found a new destination.

Initially, they had been holding onto a sigh of relief, journeying towards Konoha for support.

But now, they realized that less than half a day's journey ahead lay the refuge of the Red Republic.

Instantly, a wave of relief swept over most of the people, overshadowed by fatigue, hunger, and thirst.

"To the Red Republic, they have hot porridge there, it can heal the sick!"

"Fantastic, my child will be saved!" An excited mother joyfully embraced her weary child.

At that moment, Ishizaki Shota and Tokuda Gin exchanged glances, their resolve firm, "Let's head to the Red Republic!"

Hastily, Ishizaki retrieved the last piece of food, hidden on his person, along with a few morsels of meat tightly wrapped in black cloth.

He brought forth the remaining half-pot of water and immediately fed it to Haruka Mikami, who had weakened.

"Haruka, eat quickly. You'll gain strength after eating. We'll be rescued in half a day, so don't give up."

"Haruka, didn't you vow to become a ninja and avenge your parents? Eat! You'll gain strength and must persevere!"

Upon hearing his companion's words, Haruka Mikami slowly opened his eyes, swallowing the piece of meat Ishizaki Shota offered along with the clear water.

Regaining some strength, he opened his eyes, "Haruka, let's make our way to the Red Republic. It's only half a day's journey; you can definitely hold on!"

Tokuda Gin, standing nearby, quickly informed Haruka and the others of their new destination.

After a while, Mikami Haruka felt the meat digesting in her stomach, and soon, a surge of energy coursed through her body once more.

Haruka Mikami rose to her feet again, looking at her companion beside her, her eyes shining, "We're heading to the Red Republic. Just half a day's journey—I can endure!"

"Let's go! To the Red Republic!"

"Forward, everyone! The entrance is where we'll be processing your applications!" Uzumaki Hiroki exclaimed loudly, his voice projected through a megaphone provided by Kazuhiko.

His amplified voice cut through the air, reaching the ears of many refugees gathered before him.

Initially gaunt and weary, the refugees' eyes sparked with hope as they listened to his words.

As he surveyed the crowd of refugees, Uzumaki Hiroki silently urged himself to maintain a smile.

Repeating the instructions given by Kazuhiko in his mind, Uzumaki Hiroki continued, "The Land of Red (Red Republic) has opened its doors to refugees! As long as you refrain from any unlawful activities, you're welcome to apply for citizenship in the Red Republic!"

Despite his embarrassment, Uzumaki Hiroki persevered, driven by the task entrusted to him by Kazuhiko—the portly man who had accompanied him from the start.

The once-sniffling chubby boy had now grown into his own, buoyed by pride in Kazuhiko's efforts to save the Land of Whirlpools. He dedicated himself to rigorous training, aiding Kushina in safeguarding Land of Whirlpools's elderly and children during conflicts with Kirigakure, ensuring their safety in shelters.

Since Kazuhiko's return from Konoha, he enrolled in the Academy of Science and commenced training in the Uzumaki Six Forms. Currently, he served in the Ministry of Armed Forces, upholding law and order in the Red Republic.

Once a timid, blushing boy prone to runny noses, he now stood tall at 1.68 meters, exuding strength and confidence. Despite the numerous eyes fixed upon him, his face flushed with embarrassment, he resolutely repeated his message.

"This task was assigned by Lord Kazuhiko, and I shall see it through!" 

"No sweat! Hang in there, folks!"

Uzumaki Hiroki said with a smile.

Though his face was flushed red, Uzumaki maintained his smile as he lifted his megaphone once more, addressing the crowd, "Where is Red Republic?

"The Red Republic lies adjacent to the Land of Fire, reachable by an approximate two-day journey for ordinary travelers...

"The Red Republic, formerly known as the Land of Whirlpools, has long upheld peace in the ninja world, earning a reputation for its integrity. Under the leadership of Lord Kazuhiko, every citizen is ensured a home and sustenance!"

"Work hard and you can have your own home, food, and clothing every day, ensuring your safety through the cold winter!" 

Uzumaki Hiroki glanced at the small note handed to him by Kazuhiko, blushing as he read the advertisement.

Though his face flushed, others' faces mirrored his due to his loud proclamation.

Many refugees had intended to join the Red Republic. The news sparked excitement among the weary civilians, especially upon learning that by merely working, they could secure their own homes and livelihoods. Their eyes sparkled with hope.

Uzumaki Hiroki promptly announced, "Red Republic has officially begun distributing hot porridge and water for free. The distribution point is ahead! 

"If you're sick, head to the medical facility next to it for treatment. Priority is given to the elderly, weak, women, and children. No crowding!"

The mention of free food and drink sent the refugees into a frenzy. They dispersed from around Uzumaki Hiroki and sprinted towards the direction he pointed.

"Form a line, no cutting or crowding!

"Unless you're unwell or it's an emergency, use the infirmary nearby!"

"There are public restrooms to the west, segregated for men and women. No defecating elsewhere!"

A citizen of the Red Republic adeptly maintained order.

No one needed a megaphone; the instructions echoed among the crowd. 

Law and order prevailed as queues formed, and nobody dared to disrupt the peace.

*****

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