It could also be considered the moment his disciple truly graduated.
"Then we'll be leaving first. You all keep chatting."
Before leaving, Ashina patted Ran on the shoulder. "Work hard. The revival of the Land of Whirlpools depends on you. This old man can finally put down his burden, because I've already devoted too much to the Land of Whirlpools."
"But you can't. You've enjoyed every privilege since birth, living a life of luxury that ordinary people could never even imagine. Now that the Land of Whirlpools has declined, it's time for you to do your part."
Ran replied seriously, "Don't worry, Grandpa. I understand all of that. Not only do I have an obligation, but I also have a responsibility to lead the Land of Whirlpools back to prosperity, because it is my home and they are my people."
Even Ōnoki could not help nodding at those words. "What a fine young man. With such resolve and some ability to match, what is there to fear?"
The others shared the same view.
People like them would never mock someone capable and willing to work hard.
Instead, they would choose to befriend and help such a person. That way, there would be one less enemy and one more ally in the future.
"With those words, Grandpa can rest easy. Go ahead and do what you must. The Land of Whirlpools belongs to you, and you'll make all the decisions."
Ashina no longer wished to concern himself with the affairs of the Land of Whirlpools. Still, seeing how confident his grandson was, he wanted to offer a few more words of encouragement and tell him not to give up.
Now that he had said what he needed to say, he left.
Ran watched Ashina's departing back until they had left Cloud