At Konoha Gate.
The morning mist had yet to fully disperse, and the air was filled with the damp scent of earth and fresh grass.
"Waaah... Brother Sou, you have to come back soon."
The young Tsunade clutched Uchiha Ao's sleeve tightly. Her large amber eyes brimmed with glistening tears, and her plump little mouth pouted so much it could have hung an oil bottle, making her look exactly like a young wife seeing her husband off to war.
"Alright, it's not like I'm never coming back."
Sou smiled helplessly, crouched down, and gently scratched the tip of her cute little nose before saying softly,
"When I come back, I'll bring you some specialties from the Land of Whirlpools. I heard the seafood there is especially plump, so I'll make you seafood noodles then."
"Really? You're not allowed to lie!"
Tsunade sniffled and reluctantly let go, but her gaze remained glued to Sou as she kept looking back at him with every step.
Only after soothing this clingy little kitten did Sou stand up and turn his gaze toward Mito, who had been quietly standing nearby.
Today, Mito had changed back into a simple, elegant white kimono. Her long red hair was casually tied behind her head, making her appear gentle and dignified.
"Lord Mito, then I'll be setting off."
Sou leaned closer and lowered his voice. "When I return, please give me more guidance in taijutsu."
"Smooth talker."
A faint, barely noticeable blush instantly colored Mito's ears, and she shot him an annoyed glare.
"Be careful on the road. Don't disgrace Konoha."
"Got it!"
Sou laughed brightly, then turned and waved at Uzumaki Longya and the others who had been waiting for some time.
"Let's go!"
Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!
Several figures instantly turned into afterimages, streaking past Konoha Gate