A few days later.
Early morning.
After going over everything once more, Naruto took the pack Kushina had prepared for camping outdoors and stored it in the Sealing Space.
"Remember to eat and rest on time."
Concern showed in Kushina's eyes as she stepped forward and hugged Naruto before retreating beneath the eaves.
"Lord Naruto, be sure to stay safe."
Uzumaki Suika gave him a solemn reminder as well.
"Naruto, have a safe journey."
Minato Namikaze also held a scroll sealed with all sorts of supplies. He walked up to Naruto and handed it over.
Naruto put away the scroll, looking somewhat helpless.
"It's not like this is my first time going out."
He had clearly explained everything the night before and told Kushina and the others not to go out of their way to see him off.
Yet early that morning,
Kushina, Minato Namikaze, and the others had prepared all manner of food, ninja tools, and daily necessities.
Most of his previous trips had been spur-of-the-moment, leaving little time to prepare. This time was different. They had begun arranging everything days in advance and only set off today.
"You'll be away for quite a while this time. Conditions outside are harsh, so make sure you take care of yourself."
Kushina put on a stern face, every bit the mother.
"Alright, alright. I'll be careful."
Naruto could only shake his head with a bitter smile. Then he looked at Minato Namikaze and spoke seriously.
"I'm leaving the safety of Wave Country to you while I'm gone."
A year ago, Wave Country had still been quietly building up in secret. Aside from Kirigakure, the other ninja villages had barely noticed the changes taking place within the country.
But over the past half year, Wave Country's arms business had grown larger and