The moment they arrived in the Capital, everyone was captivated by the scene before them. Compared with the ever-changing Konoha Ninja Village, the Capital retained a distinctly traditional atmosphere. Though Konoha Ninja Village's influence had brought some new things here as well, tradition still predominated.
For those who had grown up in Konoha Ninja Village, the Capital felt refreshingly unfamiliar. Few traces of traditional architecture remained in their village. After entering the Capital, they walked along, looking around and occasionally discussing what they saw.
The Konoha forehead protectors they wore made their identities obvious to the people along the streets. Shopkeepers with ties to Konoha Ninja Village called out invitations to browse their stores and buy something, offering discounts because they were Konoha ninja.
Curiosity drew the group into those shops for a look, but they had to admit that, aside from some traditional items unique to the Capital, everything else could also be found in Konoha Ninja Village. When it came to commercial prosperity, their village outstripped other places.
Out of courtesy, Asuna and the others still bought a few unfamiliar novelties—mostly goods suited to life in the Capital—before bidding the shopkeepers farewell amid smiles and conversation.
"How should I put this? The Capital doesn't seem as impressive as I imagined," Mizuki told Asuna, toying with the ornament she had bought.
"That isn't entirely fair. The Capital might not have all the new things our village does, but its traditional atmosphere is worth taking the time to appreciate," Hizashi Hyuga said beside them.
"You might feel that way, Mr. Hizashi, but I still find the village more comfortable," Fujimura Yuki replied.
"Exactly. Maybe this place suits you better, Mr. Hizashi. The Hyuga Clan is a distinguished clan that upholds traditional etiquette, after all," said Mizuki.
"Tradition..." At her words,