The night gradually deepened, but the young people's lively conversation, along with the occasional comments from their two mentors, made the little Japanese restaurant seem cut off from time itself.
It was not until the owner kindly reminded them that closing time was near that they realized how late it had become.
As they stepped outside, the bustle of the shopping street had quieted somewhat, though quite a few shops still had their lights on.
The cool breeze dispersed the warmth from indoors and brought with it the fresh night air.
"Then, see you at the training ground next week."
Kagami nodded to Hiruzen, then turned to Gen.
"Gen, escort Chigusa and Kenta to the vicinity of their clan grounds."
"Yes, Teacher Kagami."
Gen replied.
"Goodbye, Teacher Hiruzen! Goodbye, Teacher Kagami!"
Jiraiya waved energetically.
The two teams parted ways in front of the Japanese restaurant and headed in different directions.
Team 7 noisily discussed what they would do tomorrow, while Team 10 was much quieter, with only Gen's soft replies to yet another one of Chigusa's questions audible.
Hiruzen Sarutobi and Kagami Uchiha walked at the back, watching the young people's retreating figures.
"Sometimes, I really envy them."
Hiruzen suddenly said.
"Yes."
Kagami softly agreed.
"But being able to watch them grow like this—isn't that both our responsibility and... our good fortune?"
The two mentors said nothing more. They simply walked side by side for a while, then turned in opposite directions at the next intersection, each disappearing into Konoha's deep night.
Several lamps still shone along the nighttime shopping street for those returning home late.
The lights of the Hokage Office seemed especially bright in the middle of the night.
Nangō Kumoi sat behind the broad desk, with a pile of documents before him nearly a third taller than