Triumphant Return

The defeated Hidden Mist Village fleet, like wounded sea beasts, dragged their battered hulls away in disarray, vanishing beyond the horizon. Only the sound of waves striking the shore remained, as though washing away the bloody slaughter from moments before. East Sea Bay returned to its superficial calm, while the chaotic traces of battle on the beach, the still-wet bloodstains, and the shattered ninja tools scattered everywhere silently spoke of the brutal fight that had just taken place.

Sunagakure's latest orders soon arrived by messenger hawk.

Pakura's unit was to continue guarding the coastline, construct temporary defenses, and keep a close watch on the sea in case the Hidden Mist Village returned. As for Pakura herself, the fame of her Scorch Release spread swiftly with this great victory, like the hot wind blowing along the coast.

Meanwhile, Shaye received new orders: lead the Puppet Corps that had participated in the battle and escort their wounded comrades back to the village.

There was no grand ceremony or thunderous celebration. The work after victory was practical and solemn. Shaye's Puppet Corps and the medical ninja carefully searched between the beach and reefs, gently placing every wounded comrade onto stretchers or loading them onto puppet beasts of burden still capable of moving. The bodies of the fallen were also gathered as thoroughly as possible and wrapped in white cloth. Their names would be carved upon the memorial monument, and the living would remember their sacrifice.

The procession began silently heading west. They had come like wind and fire, but returned as steady as mountains. Shaye still stood atop Mirage's broad shoulder armor, though the Chakra Threads behind his head had already been withdrawn. The massive puppet merely followed the group in silence, like its most loyal guard. His gaze swept over the traces