Might Guy nodded too, his voice brimming with excitement. "Aoba, you were incredible! Your Lightning Blade and Tailed Beast Chakra were amazing! From now on, let's train together and protect Konoha together!"
Kawaki Aoba smiled and nodded. "All right. We'll train together and protect Konoha together!"
Yuhi Shinku looked at everyone with a relieved smile. "All right, we're all injured. Let's return to Konoha and tend to our wounds, then explain everything to the Lord Third and clear Aoba's name."
"Right!"
Everyone answered in unison. Supporting one another, they headed toward Konoha.
Sunlight filtered through the leaves and fell across them, warm and bright. Though they were injured and had just survived a fierce battle, each of them wore a determined smile. As long as they stood together, they could overcome anything. As long as they worked together, they could protect Konoha and the people at their side.
At the front of the group, Kawaki Aoba looked toward Konoha, his eyes resolute. He silently vowed, I'll protect Konoha and everyone in it. I'll never let anyone falsely accuse me again, and I'll never let Konoha come to harm. I'll become a true Hokage and use my own strength to protect Konoha's peace!
Asuma walked in the middle of the group. Looking at the people around him, he felt both guilt and gratitude. He silently vowed, I'll make up for my mistakes. I'll spend the rest of my life protecting Konoha and everyone here. I'll never betray anyone again or do anything to hurt Konoha.
Shikamaru Nara, Ino Yamanaka, and Choji Akimichi walked at the rear, chatting and smiling. The battle had deepened their bond and strengthened their resolve to protect Konoha.
Kakashi, Jiraiya, and Might Guy walked along the group's flanks, guarding everyone. They looked at the young people beside