Released

In Konoha, craftsmen of every kind had gathered. Carpenters hewed great trees into beams for new houses.

Stonemasons worked to repair the damaged Hokage Rock.

The children seemed oblivious to the oppressive mood in the village. They darted between construction sites, playing and chasing one another.

Koharu and Homura pushed open the door to the Hokage's Office.

At the sight of his two companions, a faint smile appeared on the Third Hokage's weary face.

"Thank you both for your efforts."

"We failed to live up to the village's hopes on this trip to the Land of Rain," Homura said. "We came to accept the blame."

"The blame isn't yours. It's mine. I overlooked this possibility when I ordered the withdrawal, and that led us to where we are now.

"What matters is that you returned safely. I can't hold Konoha together alone," the Third Hokage said.

Homura paused. "On our way back, we met with Danzo."

The Third Hokage nodded. "I thought he might ask you to persuade me."

"What Danzo said made some sense," Koharu said. "If he had remained the Root Leader, he would have noticed the changes in the capital. He's watchful enough for that.

"He could have stopped the danger before it took hold. Much of what happened this time might never have happened."

"And the sooner we put the Spy Plan into action, the better," Homura said. "We might hear about unexpected developments before they become crises. Besides, with the Shinobi World War underway, we need everyone we can get."

The Third Hokage fell silent for a long while. "You both have a point. But it won't be easy to answer to the families of the dead—or the Elders Council."

"Don't forget that you're the Hokage," Homura said. "You're doing this for everyone in Konoha.