Konoha was enjoying crisp autumn weather, and its businesses were flourishing. Shops of every kind lined the streets, while pedestrians took advantage of the cool evening air to stroll around with their families.
By chance, school had just let out at the Ninja Academy. The noisy students ran along the main street, adding to the bustle of the thriving district.
A dense crowd surrounded the iced-drink shop, and Mao, who was leading the way, sighed helplessly. She had wanted to bring Naori to try Konoha's newly launched first ninja tea of autumn.
She held out her hand and counted the people lined up like a long dragon. If they joined the queue now, it would probably be dark by the time they reached the front. Gazing at the line in amazement, she said, "I never realized these merchants were so clever. Just one bit of GG-Speak can send people into a shopping frenzy."
Naori nodded in complete agreement. She raised a hand in response to Nao, who was inviting her over from the queue, then turned to the somewhat dejected girl and said, "Come on. I'll take you somewhere nice."
"Mm." Nao watched them leave with regret from the queue. "They're really not coming?"
Lulin patted her shoulder, signaling that it was time to move up a spot. Lazily, she said, "Don't forget, a bet's a bet. You're paying later."
"Ah, damn it."
Nao's green eyes narrowed slightly. She nodded nonchalantly and murmured, "The Hagoromo and Uchiha bet against each other, and now the Nara have to bet against the Yamanaka too?"
The setting sun suddenly blazed brighter. Lulin's eyes curved as she looked at the gleaming golden hair, and she smiled without a word.
"I didn't expect the dumplings at this little shop to be so good."
Mao wiped