Returning to the Village

The mission in the Land of Waves was a complete success.

Gato, the culprit who had plunged the Land of Waves into despair and chaos, had finally received the punishment he deserved. His fall was like the removal of a dark cloud that had long blotted out the sky, allowing sunlight to shine over the land once more.

Construction of the bridge, a project that had once ground to a halt because of Gato's interference, could finally continue.

The workers busied themselves once more, the symphony of hammers and nails ringing along the riverbank and heralding prosperity and hope for the Land of Waves.

Tazuna, the elderly but determined bridge designer, gazed at the bridge gradually taking shape before him, his eyes full of relief and gratitude.

To commemorate this victory and the brave young ninjas who had fought to protect the Land of Waves, he decided to name the bridge "Naruto Bridge," so that Naruto and his companions' bravery and selflessness would never be forgotten.

Of course, it was also possible that Tazuna had mocked Naruto earlier and, after seeing Naruto's strength, now wanted to do everything he could to mend their relationship.

But none of that mattered anymore. The bridge was now called Naruto Bridge.

Word spread, and the villagers throughout the Land of Waves erupted in celebration.

They organized a heartfelt, spontaneous farewell for Kakashi, Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura, the four heroes.

Flowers, applause, and grateful tears mingled together, forming a moving scene.

The children gathered around Naruto and the others, their eyes shining with hopes and dreams for the future, as if they could see a brighter tomorrow for the Land of Waves in them.

Amid the villagers' reluctant farewells, Kakashi, Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura set off for home.

After returning to Konoha, Kakashi quickly dismissed the team and headed straight for the Hokage Building without wasting a moment.

He pushed open the heavy doors to the Hokage's Office and saw Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi seated at his desk, brows furrowed, yet still exuding authority.

"Kakashi, you're back." Hiruzen's voice was warm and deep, with a trace of concern that was difficult to detect.

"Yes, Lord Hokage. The mission is complete. Gato has been defeated, and construction of the bridge in the Land of Waves will continue. They've also decided to name it 'Naruto Bridge.'" Kakashi gave a concise report, though his tone made it clear that he was emphasizing one particular detail.

Hiruzen raised an eyebrow, evidently surprised by the name "Naruto Bridge." Then his gaze sharpened. "It seems Naruto performed remarkably well on this mission."

Kakashi nodded, his expression serious. "Lord Hokage, I must report that Naruto's strength and growth during this mission far exceeded my expectations."

"During the battle, Naruto displayed astonishing strength." Kakashi's voice carried a hint of shock. "He didn't flinch when facing Momochi Zabuza, one of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen. He even defeated Zabuza and his companion, Haku, all by himself. He also used the Power of the Nine-Tails during the battle. Naruto's strength is already on par with mine."

Hiruzen's face filled with disbelief, then turned thoughtful.

He knew that the Power of the Nine-Tails was sealed inside Naruto, but he also understood the instability and risks that came with it.

The two continued talking for a long time. What they discussed, perhaps only Kakashi and Hiruzen knew.

But one thing was certain: from that moment on, Naruto's standing and future in Konoha quietly underwent a subtle yet profound change.

After returning to Konoha, Sasuke looked troubled. This mission had deeply affected him.

Although he had awakened the Sharingan, Sasuke knew that the gap between him and Naruto was simply too great. It filled him with a sense of urgency unlike anything he had felt before. So he hurried to the training ground, determined to make up the difference through even more intense training.

Sakura, meanwhile, wanted to use the opportunity to treat Naruto to a meal and celebrate the mission's completion, while also getting to know him better.

However, when she invited Naruto, he politely declined.

Naruto said he wanted to go home and rest as soon as possible.

In Naruto's memories, Sakura had once been unkind to him, so he wasn't interested in her invitation.

Following his memories, Naruto walked home alone.

Just then, he noticed a familiar figure following behind him, sneaking glances at him from time to time.

Curious, Naruto turned around and finally got a good look at the girl—it was Hinata, his classmate.

"Hinata, what are you doing here?" Naruto greeted her with a smile.

But the instant Hinata's gaze met Naruto's, her cheeks flushed crimson, like a newly blossomed cherry blossom, delicate and dazzling.