Ch. 381An Unfinished Connection!
Key Plot Points and Events
- Li emerges from the secret chamber to find Kushina and the others, revealing he has obtained the Heart of the World and the true Immortal Heavenly Palace.
- News of the Fourth Shinobi World War and Li's defeat of Kaguya has spread, making the Immortal Heavenly Palace a sacred land.
- Li decides to retire and live in seclusion with Kushina and the others, passing the throne of the Immortal Heavenly Palace to Sasuke.
- Li spirits away Kushina and the others into the Immortal Heavenly Palace, pausing time for them, and leaves alone without letting anyone see him off.
Character Developments
- Li: He has reached the pinnacle of his power and decides to retire, passing the throne to Sasuke. He feels melancholic about leaving his friends and the world he has built.
- Sasuke: He is chosen by Li to be the next Lord Emperor of the Immortal Heavenly Palace. He accepts the position to fulfill Itachi's wish for world peace.
- Kushina and the others: They are spirited away by Li into the Immortal Heavenly Palace, their time paused, and they are unaware of Li's departure.
Significant Themes
- Power and responsibility: Li, having reached the pinnacle of power, feels the weight of his responsibilities and decides to pass the throne to Sasuke.
- The impermanence of life: Li feels the fleeting nature of life and wants to spend the rest of his time with his loved ones in seclusion.
- Sacrifice for loved ones: Li is willing to give up his power and position to ensure a peaceful and happy life for his loved ones.
Character Interactions
- Li and Kushina: Li strokes the faces of Shion and Hinata and kisses Kushina and the others on the lips before spiriting them away into the Immortal Heavenly Palace.
- Li and Sasuke: Li offers the position of the next Lord Emperor to Sasuke, who accepts it to fulfill Itachi's wish for world peace.
- Li and the ten elders: The ten elders are reluctant to see Li step down but ultimately accept his decision and pledge to assist Sasuke.