Konoha, Western Development Zone, Ninja Engineering Corps camp general office.
"You've worked hard all this time, Deputy Commander Yukina."
Seeing the girl enter alongside Hirohiko, Chise Hibiki, the chief person in charge of the Ninja Engineering Corps seated at the center of the general office, slowly rose to his feet. After straightening his collar, he gave a deep bow and expressed his gratitude.
Today was the day the girl before him would leave this camp and be transferred back to the Defense Force. Starting today, she would officially become the Defense Force's deputy commander and hold all of its real authority.
In absolute terms, this twelve-year-old girl would henceforth stand two ranks above him in office. She was undeniably of commanding rank.
"No, it was simply my duty. Please don't be so formal. I should be the one thanking you for looking after me during this time, Chief Chise."
Yukina wore a faint smile as she watched the blurry figure before her bow, then returned the gesture with a forty-five-degree bow.
During this period, Chise Hibiki, as the chief person in charge, had granted her a great deal of autonomy. He had practically never interfered with any decision made by the Defense Force here. In fact, every time, he only learned of changes within the camp's Defense Force after she went to report them to him.
He had already shown her considerable respect and consideration, so this expression of thanks was necessary.
No matter what Chise Hibiki had thought of her and Hirohiko before, she had to offer this thanks.
At the very least, after Chiba's visit had given him a stern warning, he had treated her and Hirohiko with great caution and respect. Moreover, he himself was capable. So long as work began, the Ninja Engineering Corps' efficiency would