Chapter 356: The City of Entertainment
A year had passed in the blink of an eye, and the Ninja World remained calm on the surface. Yet, if one event stood out this year, it was the transformation of the Land of Rain.
It began with a group of young people seemingly emerging from nowhere to reunify the fractured land. They didn't stop there. Establishing a new ninja village and rebuilding the region, they turned the Land of Rain into a thriving entertainment hub. Now, the country was known for its sprawling entertainment district. Sex shops, gambling dens, and hot springs dotted the landscape. With its central location, opulent decor, and unparalleled service, the Land of Rain had earned a sterling reputation across the Ninja World.
Every day, wealthy patrons from neighboring and smaller countries flocked there to indulge. Though the special industries were under the direct control of Akatsukigakure, the prosperity spilled over. The profits from food and lodging alone allowed the villagers to enjoy a standard of living they once considered unattainable.
As another month drew to a close, Yahiko sat in the Akatsukikage office, a far cry from the typical ninja. With the Akatsukikage Building long completed, he now exuded the air of a business magnate.
"How was this month's revenue?" he asked calmly.
Kakuzu, reading the monthly report, couldn't hide his grin. "Ten percent more than last month."
The former bounty hunter reveled in his newfound life. Gone were the days of constant fighting. Now, his mornings began with counting stacks of money—a reality he could scarcely believe.
"Not bad. The profits have stabilized in recent months," Yahiko remarked, maintaining his stoic demeanor. "As long as nothing unexpected happens, the revenue should remain consistent."
He nodded, though inwardly, he felt numb. The sheer wealth flooding into their coffers was overwhelming. Never had he imagined that excess wealth could become a problem.
Konan smiled. "Sensei truly is amazing. I never realized these industries could be so profitable."
Her former disdain for such "dirty" work had all but vanished. After all, their employees were willing professionals gathered from various nations. There was no coercion, no exploitation. And as for those ruined by gambling? She rationalized it simply: they had only themselves to blame. If not here, they would have lost elsewhere.