The Shopkeeper of Konoha

It had been nearly a year since the curious introduction of Windows 98 computers, and the villagers had warmly embraced these new wonders. Solar panels adorned the roofs of homes and public buildings, glistening under the sun, capturing its energy to power the new-age machines and illuminate the village streets by night. Although not every rooftop had been equipped with solar panels, the change was evident. Some rooftops even boasted solar geysers, efficiently keeping water warm during cold winters without wasting energy.

Konoha had undergone significant transformation during this time. A few villagers now sported automail, mechanical limbs replacing their natural ones. One individual even had an automail eye, surprisingly, a member of the Uchiha clan. However, nobody mocked or ridiculed him, as he had lost the eye during war while defending himself against an attacker. Tragically, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries at the hands of the same assailant.

Other than that, there was a huge change in the shinobi sector too. Edward was finally able to make the strongest alloy kunai and ninja tools. More powerful and strong than the black receivers of Pain and other wielders of Rinnegan.

Of course Aoto wasn't going to come out and speak it openly but he knew that the Admantium was definitely the most powerful alloy out there. Other than that magical pouch was another thing that made the lives of a shinobi easier. They had been taking those on missions and until now there wasn't any mishaps with them as every shinobi was konoha was asked to hide it.

And if there was a reason to believe that they might die, they were asked to burn the cloth before they do so. This thing should be hidden as long as possible. But Konoha had been better now since the introduction of Palico, better medical facilities and the magical pouch.

According to statistics, Konoha's death rates had declined, and their missions were more successful, all thanks to Aoto Yamazaki. The positive changes weren't limited to men alone; women also experienced improvements in their lives, from better makeup and lingerie to more effective medicines. It was a win-win situation for everyone, with the village thriving in various aspects.

Four months ago, Edward, driven by frustration and determination, embarked on the ambitious project of building a radio station in the village. This innovative endeavor was unprecedented in Konoha, as radio stations and receivers were entirely new concepts. With the help of skilled individuals, Edward set up the station above Winry's garage, and in no time, the radio station was fully operational, offering radios for purchase to the villagers.

The Hokage was impressed with the idea of the radio station and saw its potential during emergencies. He decided to have one installed near his office, so he could use it to broadcast important messages to the entire village when needed. He also urged the citizens of Konoha to support this new technology by purchasing radios exclusively from Winry's garage, as they possessed the knowledge and expertise to build them.

Aoto fully supported Edward's efforts, understanding that Konoha couldn't immediately transition into the digital era, but the introduction of such modern technologies could be done gradually. Furthermore, Edward had proposed the idea of a mobile radio tower, which essentially meant mobile communications.

The technology department of Konoha, with Edward's invaluable assistance, had already begun working on implementing his ideas. Edward had provided them with numerous innovative concepts, and the department was so impressed that they wanted to appoint him as the head of the department. However, Edward politely declined the offer even before they could formally ask him.

The sun was shining brightly over Konoha today, autumn had just arrived so the weather wasn't much hot or cold. The leaves around had turned from green to quite a variety of flowers. Most of them were on the streets or on rooftops which were being lifted off by breezy wind once in while.

On this particular day, Aoto was standing near the huge gate of Konoha while wearing a black boots and a proper Konoha shinobi outfit. And he wasn't alone. John and Corazon were with him too and they too in proper Konha outfit.

Only difference was that they weren't wearing a Konoha band. John had sword on his waist while Corazon was just as normal with a small bag on his shoulder. And they weren't alone. There was Kakashi, Guy and a very young Itachi.

They had all gathered for a mission, one that would take them to the Land of Iron. Aoto, being treated as a national treasure, was accompanied by Kakashi and Guy, both special jonins, along with Itachi, who had recently passed the chunin exams.

Aoto had interacted quite a bit with all three of them, with Guy being the least familiar, but they were acquainted nonetheless.

"Kakashi, let's make a run and see who reaches the Land of Iron first. The winner will accept that he's better than the other," Guy proposed with a playful tone.

"Guy, you're already better than me, so why bother with the competition?" Kakashi responded, sighing good-naturedly. Kakashi and Guy appeared much younger now than during their time of teaching the younger generation, but their playful dynamic remained unchanged. Currently, Kakashi was engrossed in reading a manga called 'My Dressup Darling,' a sweet romantic story about a boy who made dolls and a girl who loved cosplaying. He was thoroughly enjoying the story, even blushing at certain points.

Itachi joined them, equipped with a small sword on his back. Despite his age, he appeared composed and ready to undertake the mission of escorting Aoto safely to the Land of Iron and back.

Fugaku had considered accompanying them on the trip, fearing that Aoto might become a target due to his abilities. The Uchiha clan had been gradually amassing wealth through the sale of medicines like Viagra and contraceptives like condoms.