I Don't Care What You Think, I Care What I Think

Late at night, the Hokage Building was still brightly lit.

The four-man group currently holding Konoha's real power was conducting a small meeting.

"Since the war ended, the number of missions Konoha has accepted has surged to roughly four times the wartime level."

Utatane Koharu placed the documents in her hand before Sarutobi Hiruzen.

"Just as the documents show, against the backdrop of this new environment, our village's mission volume is currently in a transitional period where its growth rate is accelerating.

"Of course, this is also inseparable from the Chunin Exams, but overall, the village's economy has shifted from medium-high-speed growth into high-speed growth."

Utatane Koharu read out a large pile of data. It was clear that Konoha's recent situation was looking excellent.

The Third Hokage said softly, "That's a matter for you professionals, but haven't prices in the village gotten a little too high lately?"

"They are indeed a little high." Utatane Koharu nodded.

"Not a little. To say nothing else, pork alone costs several times more than it did last year, and fruit is the same. What's going on?"

The Third Hokage tapped the table and looked at the three people before him.

A price increase was one thing, but if prices went up this much, how was he supposed to freely indulge in braised pork ribs?

Homura Mitokado explained stiffly, "It's actually not as severe as imagined. In the long term, prices are within expectations, the increase is controllable, and the overall situation is excellent. The villagers have indicated that they can accept it."

"..."

"What do you have to say, Danzo?" The Third Hokage looked at Danzo.

Danzo said impatiently, "What does that have to do with me? I don't control prices. Don't blame everything on me."

"It has nothing to do with you?" The