Night fell, but Konoha's South District Commercial Street shone as bright as day.
On both sides of the street, newly installed gas lamps cast a warm yellow glow, illuminating the entire avenue.
The display windows of the shops lining the street were filled with all kinds of goods:
New-style ready-made clothing, exquisite ninja tools, and rare curios imported from various countries.
Colorful signs glittered everywhere—"Akimichi Barbecue," "Yamanaka Florist," "Nara Herbal Shop," "Uchiha Forge Authorized Dealer"...
Every business seemed to be thriving. The shops were packed, and lines had formed outside.
Street vendors pushed their carts along the roadside, their cries rising one after another:
"Freshly cooked oden—"
"Three-color dango, a specialty of the Land of Fire—"
"Fresh fruits from the Land of Lightning, come have a taste—"
Pedestrians crowded shoulder to shoulder. Ninja who had finished a day's work passed by in small groups, alongside families with children, young couples, and even a few foreign merchants.
The air was filled with the scents of all kinds of food, the fragrance of flowers, and the vibrant energy radiating from the crowd.
"Wow..."
Jiraiya's eyes widened as he took in the sight before him:
"I knew the commercial street stayed open at night, but this is... way too lively, isn't it?"
Even Tsunade wore a rare look of amazement. "There were never this many people at night before."
"Postwar reconstruction, economic recovery, and the employment and business opportunities brought by the planned development of the West District."
Orochimaru analyzed calmly, though his gaze lingered for a few extra seconds on the novel shop signs:
"The Hokage's policies are beginning to show results."
After training all afternoon, the three of them were already starving. Now, with the aromas of grilled meat, ramen, and desserts drifting through the air, their stomachs growled traitorously.
"Teacher