Yahiko was in a great mood today. Teacher Jiraiya was very satisfied with their current progress. Working together, he, Konan, and Nagato could now take down one of Teacher Jiraiya's Shadow Clones. Jiraiya rewarded each of them with 200 ryo and gave them a day off, though they had to be back by evening. As for himself, he had run off to look for writing inspiration.
Ninja training was arduous and tedious. The three of them rarely got a day off, and like puppies let loose, they immediately ran into Amegakure's marketplace.
It was not raining in Amegakure today. Though there was no sun, this already counted as rare good weather in the Land of Rain. Ordinary people opened their windows to air out their homes, merchants set their stalls out onto the streets, and all manner of goods filled the market. It drew countless people out to shop, making the market exceptionally lively.
Having spent so long in the wild, the three youngsters looked here and there, buying snacks at one stall and candy at another. Everywhere felt fresh, and everything seemed fun.
By lunchtime, they still had more than half their money left.
"Let's find somewhere to eat. I'm hungry."
Konan rubbed her stomach.
"I'm hungry too," Nagato said.
Yahiko looked around and pointed at a tavern.
"Let's eat there."
The three entered the tavern and ordered three bowls of ramen. While waiting for their food, they noticed a crowd gathered not far away. A young Hidden Rain ninja stood atop a table, speaking about something. A group of people sat around him, listening intently, breaking into applause and cheers from time to time.
"What are they talking about?" Konan asked.
"I can't hear them clearly." Nagato shook his head.
Just then, three steaming bowls of ramen were