After returning to Konoha, everything settled back into peace. In recognition of their elimination of two core Akatsuki members, Konoha's higher-ups gave them high praise, and Minato Namikaze directly promoted Naruto Uzumaki and Hinata to Jonin.
"Excellent. We've received Sunagakure's thanks. You did a fine job this time. Your rewards will be issued tomorrow, so go get some rest first."
Inside the Hokage's office, Minato Namikaze spoke with a smile. When he had sent Naruto out, the situation had already been dire, and he had even prepared for the worst. Yet Naruto and the others had not only completed the mission, but also killed Sasori and Deidara. It was an unexpected delight.
Three years ago, he had personally witnessed the escape methods of those Akatsuki members.
"Okay, Dad. I'll head back and rest first. If there are any other missions involving Akatsuki, please make sure to assign them to me." Naruto said with a smile, gave a thumbs-up, and left. Kakashi and the others also saluted Minato in turn before taking their leave.
Minato smiled and shook his head, placed the mission report in a drawer, and returned to handling his official duties.
Akatsuki had resurfaced after three years of silence, and on their very first mission, they had captured the Kazekage and taken Shukaku. It gave him an ominous feeling.
Fortunately, Naruto and the others had killed two of them, greatly weakening Akatsuki's strength.
"But we still can't let our guard down. Jiraiya-sensei seems to have sent word that he'll be returning soon. If so, I can ask him to take over the investigation." After pondering for a moment, Minato made his decision.
Meanwhile, the deaths of Sasori and Deidara had finally made the Akatsuki members feel a sense of crisis. After their meeting, they decided to speed up