Chapter 42: Chapter:42
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It's a dilemma!
Uchiha Hirito's desire for strength is unquestionable, but the tasks with gold rewards cannot be completed due to various problems.
But these ten lottery reward tasks can be completed by just paying with your own integrity.
Hirito fell into deep thought. That was ten draws, and he would need to accumulate draw opportunities for almost a year. Who knows, maybe he could win something good.
There is always someone who is lucky, so why can't I be that lucky guy?
Outside the room, Uchiha Tomita hesitated for a moment before knocking. The earlier commotion had ceased, and he assumed Hirito had calmed down.
"Master Uchiha Hirito, the luggage is ready," Tomita announced as he stepped inside.
Hirito looked up, his face a mix of embarrassment and determination. "Tomita, I have a question."
"Of course, Master. What is it?"
"How are the widows in the clan?" Hirito coughed, trying to sound casual.
Tomita blinked, unsure if he had heard correctly. "Widows, sir?"
"Yes, widows!" Hirito said quickly, his voice lowering as he realized how awkward it sounded.
Tomita scratched his head, confused but loyal. "The clan ensures they are well taken care of. Although our resources are limited, we make sure they have enough food, including meat for three meals a day. Why do you ask, Master?"
"Ah, no particular reason!" Hirito replied hastily, waving his hand. "I just wanted to ensure they're cared for. We must honor those who sacrificed for Konoha."
Tomita nodded, a bit puzzled but satisfied with the explanation.
Hirito, however, felt like he was digging his own grave. "What am I doing? These are the families of heroes, and here I am, scheming over… No, I can't do it!"
Desperate to redirect the conversation, Hirito said, "Tomita, let's look for any important information left behind by Senju Tobirama. It might help us in the upcoming negotiations."
Tomita agreed, and the two began rummaging through drawers and cabinets in the Hokage office.
After a while, they struck gold—a sealed book containing various communications between Tobirama and the Daimyo of the Land of Fire.
The documents detailed the financial dealings during Tobirama's tenure, including a surprising revelation: Tobirama had reported spending 30 billion ryo to Konoha's treasury but had actually received 31 billion from the Daimyo.
"A billion ryo unaccounted for?" Tomita's eyes widened. "Master, this could clear all our debts!"
Hirito smirked. "Indeed. But this is our secret. No one else must know. Understand?"
"Understood!" Tomita replied, his loyalty unwavering.
The next day, Hirito set out for the capital of the Land of Fire. He chose to travel alone, without guards, preferring speed and discretion.
The journey was a sobering experience. The aftermath of the war was evident in the countless refugees and the rampant banditry. Though Hirito dealt with troublemakers easily, the sight of widespread suffering left a bitter taste in his mouth.
"The Land of Fire is in shambles," he muttered, shaking his head.
When he finally reached the capital, the stark contrast to the countryside was glaring. The streets were clean, and there were no refugees in sight—likely a deliberate move by the officials to maintain appearances.
At the palace gates, Hirito presented his credentials. The guards, recognizing the Hokage's divine robe, escorted him to a side hall to wait for the Daimyo.
The palace was a marvel of luxury. Hirito couldn't help but marvel at the sheer wealth on display.
"This place is extravagant beyond reason," he muttered, eyeing the intricate woodwork and priceless jewels adorning the walls.
Despite his admiration, he couldn't shake the irony. "The countryside is starving, but here they live like gods. No wonder they can afford to keep ninjas as their private army."
His musings were interrupted by the arrival of the Daimyo, a middle-aged man dressed in ornate robes, flanked by an entourage of guards.
"Welcome, Lord Hokage!" The Daimyo greeted him warmly. "It is a pleasure to meet the new leader of Konoha. Heroes truly arise in every generation!"
Hirito bowed respectfully. "The pleasure is mine, Your Excellency. Konoha is honored to serve the Land of Fire."
The Daimyo's smile widened. "You must attend a banquet tonight in your honor. Let us celebrate this new chapter for Konoha!"
Hirito nodded, hiding his impatience. He needed to secure funds for Konoha's recovery, but diplomacy required tact.
For now, he played along, preparing for the feast that awaited him in the heart of luxury.
(End of Chapter)