"Alright, since that's settled, there's nothing more to discuss. You may set out along the routes assigned earlier."
"Once all three teams return to Konoha, we'll draw routes again for the next round."
All three groups understood and were already impatient to get going.
Torikaze was naturally pleased to see that. It showed they were all highly motivated.
"Alright, since you can't wait any longer, you may depart. Remember, when you perform, you must bring out your very best. Don't try to fool the audience. That would be an insult to both yourselves and them."
Akeibi immediately spoke up. "Don't worry, Lord Torikaze, we won't! We'll definitely put on a good show."
"We'll bring honor to Konoha, Kirigakure, and ourselves."
Everyone was very satisfied with that answer. Torikaze nodded as well. "Alright, then there's no time to waste and no need to say anything else. Set off at once, following the routes you planned!"
Soon afterward, the three groups led their respective teams out through Konoha's main gate.
Many Konoha residents cheered them on, hoping to see them succeed.
But whether they would truly succeed still depended on their own abilities and luck.
Once they had left, Torikaze no longer concerned himself with that matter.
If he had to watch over them every moment, he might as well become a celebrity himself. He was only there to guide them, not babysit them.
Torikaze only needed to know the final results.
"After a while, begin recruiting the next batch of students for the Academy of Arts. Fill the place up quickly. Don't let it stay so empty."
Upon hearing this, the director immediately accepted the order. "Alright. I'll contact the Kage of the other villages and tell them to begin their selections as soon as possible."
Torikaze nodded. From this point