Watching all of this, Hikaru Uchiha felt increasingly puzzled.
By all logic, such a harsh climate should lead to resource scarcity and difficult living conditions.
Yet, what unfolded before him was a scene of prosperity, order, and peace—leaving Hikaru utterly baffled.
As he spoke with the locals, he even discovered that the cost of living here was cheaper than in the Land of Fire.
That realization genuinely shocked him.
The Land of Fire, being the heart of the shinobi world, had abundant resources and smooth logistics. Naturally, prices were relatively low.
But in this snowbound nation, prices were actually lower than in Konoha. It was almost unbelievable.
Tsunade and Chiri Uchiha weren't exactly experts in economics, so Hikaru entrusted the investigation to Nonō Yakushi, who showed some interest in the topic.
He believed that Nonō's insight and analytical skills would surely uncover the mystery.
Meanwhile, he led Tsunade to find lodging. After all, experiencing the charm of a foreign land wasn't a bad thing.
Hikaru, Tsunade, and Chiri strolled through the streets in search of a place to stay.
Though the nation was blanketed in snow, the buildings were sturdy and well-insulated.
Eventually, they found a small inn that looked cozy and welcoming—and decided to settle there.
Once they got situated, Hikaru and the others eagerly awaited Nonō's report.
It wasn't long before Nonō returned.
She pushed open the door, letting in a gust of cold wind as she entered.
The moment she stepped inside, she puffed her cheeks and grumbled in irritation:
"Hikaru, you're so unreliable. You asked me to gather intel but didn't even say where we were meeting. I had to find the meeting place myself!"
She stomped her feet in frustration, sending snowflakes flying from her soles.
Hikaru, seated at the table, scratched his head awkwardly at her reaction.
He really had overlooked that—after all, not everyone had his level of sensory perception.
To break the tension, Hikaru quickly stood up and changed the subject with a light tone:
"Haha, sorry to trouble you! But I bet you brought back something really important, right? We're all dying to hear what you found!"
Hearing his words, Nonō's mood eased slightly.
She looked up at his sheepish smile, and her irritation slowly faded away.
After brushing off the snow from her clothes, she began her explanation:
"That's right, I've pretty much figured it out. And honestly, it's not even a secret around here."
She paused to gather her thoughts, then continued:
"Remember the devices we use that rely on electricity? The Snow Country keeps itself afloat by exporting those kinds of tech."
"Like that camera we just started using recently—it was actually invented by someone from this country."
"While they struggle to grow food due to the climate, they make up for it through imports. And thanks to trade, the people here live fairly well."
"Plus, this country only has a single noble—the current Daimyō—and he's set very low taxes. In fact, essentials are even subsidized. That's why prices are even lower than in the Land of Fire."
After hearing Nonō's explanation, Hikaru finally understood the Snow Country's economic structure and stability.
He wasn't too surprised about the tech level. After all, a few decades later, this place would develop chakra armor and even a geothermal system that could melt all the snow—a ridiculously advanced technology by ninja world standards.
However, another question popped into his mind: If this country is so wealthy, wouldn't other nations or powers target it?
Nonō seemed to read his mind. Smiling, she explained:
"True, they earn a lot from exports—but they also spend a lot on importing food and other necessities. They're even willing to pay above market price."
"So, the Five Great Nations have reached an unspoken agreement to protect this place."
"They know that if the Snow Country's stability collapses, it would hurt their own interests. That's why this place maintains such a delicate economic and political balance with the rest of the world."
Even Hikaru hadn't anticipated that.
He stared at her in astonishment. "You found out all that yourself?"
Being stared at like that made Nonō slightly embarrassed.
A hint of red spread across her cheeks. To ease the sudden tension, she tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.
Then she replied, "I didn't gather all of it from the locals. I figured it out myself, afterwards."
Hikaru, hearing that, found his opinion of her talents rising once again.
He marveled, "Nonō, your insight and critical thinking are incredible. You have a gift I don't."
Nonō grew even more flustered under his praise. Smiling humbly, she said:
"It's not that impressive. I just enjoy thinking and analyzing problems, that's all. I believe anyone could figure this out if they thought about it."
As soon as she said that, Tsunade and Chiri rolled their eyes in unison.
They had barely followed the earlier conversation—Tsunade could barely keep up, while Chiri had already mentally checked out, thinking about dinner instead.
Now Nonō had the audacity to say anyone could understand it? Absolutely unacceptable.
Hikaru's usual posturing they could tolerate—after all, they liked him. Watching him act cool even had its charm.
But their girlfriend-slash-rival trying to show off? That was too much.
Grinning mischievously, they both lunged at Nonō.
And just like that, the room erupted into laughter and chaos.
Tsunade and Chiri playfully tackled Nonō, giggling and shoving.
They teased each other while trying to dodge the playful "attacks," filling the room with youth and energy.
Tsunade moved quickly, catching Nonō's arm, and Chiri seized the chance to tickle her.
Nonō burst into laughter, her silvery giggles echoing in the room. She tried to resist, but was clearly outmatched—two against one wasn't fair, and she soon admitted defeat.
Watching the scene, Hikaru's lips curled into a smile.
He stood quietly to the side, taking in the heartwarming moment.
The same wind and snow raged on outside—yet it bore witness to completely different destinies.
That small figure trudged through the blizzard, her body frail and shivering, as though it might be swallowed by the cold at any moment.
For certain reasons, she dared not use much chakra, making the journey even more grueling.
Yet, despite the biting cold and her unsteady steps, her eyes sparkled like stars—filled with unwavering determination.
That resolute gaze carried a silent vow:
"Mr. Madara, Lord Minato, everyone… I swear I'll find the person the Great Toad Sage spoke of. I will avenge you all. No matter how hard the path ahead, I will push forward without hesitation!"
Just as she made that inner promise, her stomach suddenly growled—grrrrrrnnn—causing her face to flush red.
At that moment, she finally looked her age: just a young girl.