"Pant... pant..."
When the mass of fused powers, the [Asura Blade: God-Shattering Heavenly Thunder Black Flame Scorching Tail Spiral Chaotic Heaven Zero Style] that had devoured Urashiki, finally dispersed into the air, Naruto was hit by an unprecedented wave of exhaustion.
He dropped out of his battle stance, the golden Chakra around him rapidly withdrawing to reveal his slightly pale face. When he landed, his legs went weak, and he staggered forward several steps, nearly unable to stay upright.
"Smack."
A hand reached out from the side in time and grabbed his arm. It was Second Pillar. He had also withdrawn his remaining power, though his breathing was slightly rushed as well.
"Well done, Naruto. Now... it's all over."
"...We won." Supported by Sasuke, Naruto repeated the words blankly, his gaze still somewhat dazed. The reality of victory seemed to come slower than the fierce battle itself. Had he really won? Even... more "easily" than expected?
That "Otsutsuki" who had been the ultimate threat in his eyes since childhood, who represented cosmic-level power and had once filled him with deep fear... had just been utterly defeated and destroyed by him?
There had been unexpected twists along the way, but the final result... he had truly done it.
"Yeah, we won." Sasuke nodded slightly, his tone gentler. "You don't need to worry anymore. That threat no longer exists."
He supported Naruto, then steadied himself beside him as well. Closing his eyes, he seemed to be sorting through his thoughts. After a moment, he opened them again, looked toward the faint outline of Konoha in the distance, and spoke softly.
"Looks like... I was worrying for nothing."
"Hm?" Naruto tilted his head. "Worrying about what?"
Sasuke turned to meet Naruto's tired but clear blue eyes. The corner of his mouth lifted into