Getting in had gone smoothly.
Getting out, however, had taken quite a while.
Because Gato's assets had truly far exceeded Menma's expectations. Of course, that went for every aspect. First of all, Gato really was rich. Calling him wealthier than a nation would not have been an exaggeration; some smaller countries truly did not have as much money as Gato.
But Gato did not have that much actual cash. A considerable portion of his wealth consisted of real estate scattered across many countries. Not to mention the Land of Water, Gato had assets in both the Land of Fire and the Land of Lightning. On this island, his actual liquid assets amounted to less than seventy million ryo—two "Asumas." It was undoubtedly an enormous sum, but it still fell far short of what Menma had expected.
But on second thought, this was extra income after all. Menma was more than satisfied. After sealing all the cash into Scrolls, he took the property deeds with him as well. They might come in handy someday.
As he stepped out of Gato's vault, a long-lost, genuine smile appeared on Menma's face.
As for Mr. Gato, Menma had sent him on his way as well.
In the literal sense.
After that.
Menma boarded that ship again and headed south, returning toward the Land of Waves.
This trip had already left Menma feeling as though he had made a fortune. Even if he had to share part of it, he was still immensely satisfied.
Ten days later.
The bridge that was said to bring hope to the people of the Land of Waves was finally completed successfully through Tazuna's efforts. It directly connected the Land of Fire and the Land of Waves. This was also thanks to the news of Gato's death, which had dispelled