Chapter 61

The key to economic development lies in taking a comprehensive approach that harmoniously integrates various aspects. Hitoshi firmly believed that as Sunagakure progressed, the villagers would enjoy a better quality of life, alleviating envy from others. With the cooperation of Daimyo, their acceptance would be ensured obediently and willingly.

For example, Rakai from Kumogakure envied and resented two individuals. Their construction site housed a small war remnant, the first area to undergo transformation. While the living standards were not exceptionally high, they were quite decent considering the location—a desert gathering place.

This time, following Kazekage-sama's orders, they established a factory there. The factory was not large, but it provided employment opportunities.

"Hey, Rakai, why don't you go to the factory and apply for a job? I heard that if you are selected and work diligently for three years, you can acquire official Kaze no Kuni citizenship and enjoy the corresponding benefits," a middle-aged man kindly suggested to Rakai.

Rakai turned away with a disdainful expression, unwilling to engage in conversation with the man. He was far more knowledgeable than him. The law granting official citizenship was clearly stated in the Sunagakure Constitution, and Rakai had memorized it.

"Ah, Rakai, don't be like this all the time. Remember when we deceived you and sent you to three months of confinement? Look at you now. You're well-versed in the Sunagakure Constitution and the ideological and political program. You're teaching newcomers about ideology and politics, earning more money without having to work with us," the man insisted, shamelessly embracing Rakai.

Rakai struggled to free himself twice, realizing that he was no longer as physically robust as a man who had been working all the time. With a sigh, he gazed at the nearby Sachhi wall. There used to be a small dark room where he was confined for three months.

After three months, exposed to the ideological and political program, he transformed from a resolute Kumogakure Shinōbi into one preparing for a new life in Sunagakure. His current role primarily involved teaching ideological and political principles to newcomers and disaster victims.

It appeared his true identity had not been revealed.

"Let me consider it. Maybe I'll go to the factory and find part-time work. Perhaps I'll have the opportunity to share the ideological and political program with others," Rakai sighed again, walking toward his room. In this small sand village, he owned his own house.

Returning to his house, he observed the one-room layout, including the bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. Only a handful of individuals in Xiaosha Village owned such a house. Former stewards, Zongkai, and the Shinōbi responsible for watering the war remains were among them. The victims who had sought refuge here were lodged in the Datong shop, where four or five people shared a space and had to light a stove daily.

However, instead of burning wood, they used a special black substance known as coal. Every month, a designated merchant would sell it at an affordable price, which they had to pay for.

Rakai, on the other hand, didn't require it. He utilized the Chakra crystals produced by Sunagakure. By installing a special Chakra furnace and placing the crystals on it, he could keep his room warm.

"As I ponder it further, life in Sunagakure is quite comfortable. It's not only beneficial for higher-ranking personnel but also for those lower down. Even the victims who sought refuge here are living happily. As long as you work hard and live together with your family, it's not difficult," Rakai reflected.

"Perhaps I should talk to Steward Akai."

Typical of him.

After experiencing a comfortable life, Rakai couldn't help but apologize silently to Kumogakure and Raikage-sama. It wasn't that he was disloyal, but the enemy's temptations were too great, and their lives were too good. They didn't have to freeze or starve, and they enjoyed delicious food. Most importantly, they ate every meal and had meat every other day. They were even becoming plump.

"Oh, you want to work in the factory and obtain Kaze no Kuni citizenship. Why?" the manager, Akai, looked Rakai up and down, curious about his motives.

"Because in Kaze no Kuni, I can have a better life compared to my current situation in Kaminari no Kuni," Rakai responded resolutely, knowing that he shouldn't mention anything else at this time.

"Tsk tsk, alright, that's a strong reason. But you don't need to work in the factory; you already have Sunagakure citizenship," Akai shook his head, unable to comprehend why this delinquent would betray Kumogakure. However, he knew one thing—Ebizo-sama had entrusted him with the task, leading to Rakai obtaining Sunagakure citizenship.

"Why? When did I obtain Sunagakure citizenship?" Rakai was shocked. When did he acquire it?

"Oh, it was when you silently wrote the ideological and political program," Akai calmly replied, handing a booklet to Rakai.

Rakai accepted the booklet and saw his information written inside, along with a long number—his ID number. However, Rakai looked at Akai suspiciously and asked, "If I acquired it when I silently wrote the ideological and political program, why didn't you give it to me earlier? I could have made purchases using the victims' citizenship and enjoyed the associated discounts. Don't you know? I missed out on many benefits. You should compensate me!" Rakai's tone grew angry. After cautiously and solemnly stowing away his citizenship booklet, he slammed his hand on the table and vented his frustration.

As Rakai spat angrily, his spittle landed on Akai's face.

Akai, far from an ordinary individual, calmly wiped his face, then gently clapped his hands together and adjusted his clothing. He spoke with a slight opening of his mouth:

"Body Flicker Technique."

Rakai watched in shock as Akai disappeared in an instant.

He never expected that the polite-looking Akai, a treacherous minister at heart, would be so ruthless. Akai reappeared in the sand village, snickering to himself, before proceeding toward the factory construction site.

What an insignificant individual Rakai was. An ideological and political instructor who dared to compare himself to Akai, a man on the brink of promotion. He would never stoop to Rakai's level.

Moreover, he could safely assume that Rakai had almost forgotten about it. Who had the time to pay attention to Rakai every day? Why would anyone intending to betray Kumogakure engage in ideological work day after day?

Ebizo's reach didn't extend here. Besides, Ebizo probably forgot about the existence of this mentally unstable individual.

It was merely the misfortune of an ordinary person.

Whether it was Ebizo or Akai, both shared a common identity—they were Shinōbi who possessed extraordinary powers.

No matter how gentle they appeared, the gap in their identities couldn't be changed.