**Inside the Hokage's Office**
"What?"
"Is there a caravan here wanting to discuss cooperation with us?"
Sarutobi Hiruzen was taken aback upon hearing the news.
Although Konoha is one of the five major ninja villages and had performed well in the Ninja World War, a cooperative offer from a Chamber of Commerce?
These are profit-driven entities. Why would they come to Konoha for collaboration? Usually, if the village wanted to work with them, it would depend on their terms...
"Where are they?"
"Bring them here."
After a brief moment of thought, Sarutobi Hiruzen decided to make contact. A partnership with a Chamber of Commerce could significantly boost Konoha's economy.
"Understood, Hokage-sama!"
The ANBU ninja quickly disappeared, heading off to escort the representatives from the Chamber of Commerce.
Once inside Konoha, the group found a place to settle easily. The president of the Chamber of Commerce soon followed the ANBU ninja to Sarutobi Hiruzen's office.
Ten minutes later, they arrived.
"Hello, Hokage-sama," greeted the visitor. "I am Mr. Sanada, president and representative of the Sanada Chamber of Commerce. I've previously coordinated an escort mission with your village. From my experience, I believe Konoha would be an excellent partner. I'm here with a sincere proposal."
Sanada spoke with a smile, though it belied his challenging journey to the top. The potion Reiki had given him had rapidly elevated his standing within the Chamber of Commerce, leading him to become president.
Sanada hadn't forgotten who made this all possible—a ninja from Konoha. Inspired, he made a bold decision to propose a lasting cooperation with the village. Such a partnership would mean a steady supply of essential resources, and the potions Reiki had provided were best-sellers across the major ninja villages.
Missing this opportunity, especially if another Chamber of Commerce got in first, would be a significant loss...
Most importantly, the unique medicines Reiki provided couldn't be replicated. Despite having a team of pharmacists, the Chamber of Commerce couldn't unravel the pharmacology behind them.
"Is this... your proposal?" Sarutobi Hiruzen glanced over the scroll, maintaining a calm facade while suppressing his surprise.
The terms were impressive: a 7% discount on all goods sold to Konoha, prioritized acquisition of Konoha's products at a minimum of 70% of the external market price, and shared resource and commodity status across villages.
This scroll was filled with goodwill.
Any Kage would find it hard to refuse such an agreement, yet Sarutobi Hiruzen remained cautious. Deals too good to be true often came with hidden agendas.
"Yes, everything listed here represents our sincerity," Sanada assured him. "In return, we hope for Konoha's support."
Sanada gauged Hiruzen's reaction with satisfaction. The Hokage seemed ready to proceed, making Sanada confident the partnership would go forward.
"Naturally. Konoha will provide any support you need. If it's within our capabilities, you'll receive the best rate," Sarutobi Hiruzen replied, unable to hide his pleased expression. Was it really just support they needed? This arrangement seemed like an incredible opportunity for Konoha.
"Thank you," Sanada said. "Now, may I meet that ninja?"
Hiruzen raised an eyebrow. "Which ninja?"
"Ah, Hokage-sama, I believe you know who I mean."
Hiruzen was puzzled. Wasn't this a discussion of cooperation between the Chamber of Commerce and the village? Why request a specific ninja, especially one he hinted was quite young? Could it be that this individual was the reason for the Chamber's approach?
"Is your village's sincerity lacking, or is it my Chamber of Commerce that hasn't offered enough?" Sanada's tone held a slight edge.
Sanada assumed that this talented young ninja would hold an important position within Konoha. Given how clearly he'd expressed his request, it seemed odd that the Hokage didn't immediately understand. Perhaps, as a powerful village, Konoha harbored a bit of arrogance…
"Chairman Sanada, you misunderstand," Hiruzen quickly responded. "Who exactly would you like to see? I'll have someone check if they're in the village. If they're here, we'll summon them immediately."
Sanada's expression softened. "His name is Reiki. Surely, Hokage-sama knows of him?"
"Reiki?" Hiruzen asked, feeling slightly exasperated. "Are you talking about a young ninja—barely eight years old?"
Hiruzen had speculated about Namikaze Minato or Hatake Sakumo, but he hadn't considered Reiki. After all, Reiki had only left the village three times on missions, once accompanying Tsunade to the front lines.
"No problem. I'll have him summoned," Hiruzen responded, signaling to ANBU nearby. "Bring Reiki here. And if Tsunade is available, have her join us as well."
The ANBU ninja nodded and vanished instantly.
A short while later, the ANBU arrived outside the Senju compound.
"Swoosh!"
A figure appeared before him.
"Captain Mori!" The ANBU ninja halted and saluted upon seeing Morishita.
"Who are you looking for?" Morishita asked with a stern expression. "Unless it's urgent, I advise against going inside right now."
"Captain Mori, Lord Hokage has sent me to find Reiki and Lady Tsunade. A representative from the Chamber of Commerce is requesting a meeting."
The ANBU ninja felt slightly awkward, but he dared not press further. Both Morishita and Tsunade were figures he preferred to avoid disturbing unnecessarily.
"Is that so?" Morishita considered briefly.
"Chamber of Commerce?" A curious voice called out as Reiki emerged from the courtyard, looking at the ANBU ninja with a hint of confusion.
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