Changes Upon Returning to the Village

After several days of travel.

The outline of Konoha gradually came into view in the distance.

The faces of past Hokage carved into the towering cliff stood like silent guardians, looking down upon the returning force.

As they drew nearer, the crowd gathered at the village entrance resembled a boiling sea.

The roaring clamor hit them before the sight itself did.

Inside and outside Konoha's gates, a dense mass of people had already flooded the area.

Villagers supported the elderly and carried children, craning their necks in anticipation, while the ninja who had remained behind stood in orderly ranks.

Their solemn expressions carried excitement, and amid countless bobbing heads, children perched atop their fathers' shoulders.

They waved tiny toys and let out thrilled shrieks.

When the Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, appeared at the head of the procession, followed closely by Hatake Sakumo, Tsunade, and other powerful shinobi.

Behind them came the battle-hardened troops, weary-faced yet straight-backed, emerging at the far end of the main road.

The cheers that had been building for so long finally erupted like a mountain flood:

"Lord Hokage! It's Lord Hokage!"

"Konoha's heroes have returned!"

"Long live Konoha! Long live Konoha!"

The waves of sound rose higher and higher, as if they could overturn the sky itself.

Flowers rained down upon the advancing procession.

People desperately pressed forward, trying to get a closer look at the legendary heroes.

The security ninja had no choice but to struggle to maintain a human barrier.

The air was filled with celebration after the smoke of war had faded.

Hiruzen Sarutobi wore a warm yet dignified smile, occasionally waving to either side, every inch the Hokage.

Though Tsunade was somewhat impatient with such a scene, she barely maintained her expression.

Hatake Sakumo remained as silent as ever. His gaze beneath