Hearing Naruto's words, Kakashi frowned slightly and said in a serious tone:
"Sasuke, Naruto, since the enemy has already abandoned the mission, we have no reason to keep pursuing them.
"Besides, abandoning their mission doesn't mean they've lost their ability to fight. Both of these enemies are extremely troublesome. There's no way we could stop them from leaving without paying a heavy price."
After speaking, Kakashi saw that Naruto still looked unconvinced. He glanced around at their surroundings and continued:
"Also, these enemies specialize in large-scale ninjutsu. If we really went all out against them, the Great Bridge that Tazuna and the villagers of the Land of Waves have worked so hard to nearly finish could be destroyed in an instant.
"You should know that this bridge is the hope of the people of the Land of Waves. Are you really determined to defeat the enemy even if it means destroying it?"
Naruto fell silent at Kakashi's words. He had spent some time in the Land of Waves, so he naturally knew what this bridge meant to its people.
If the bridge really were destroyed, given the villagers' resolve and living conditions, they might well sink into utter despair.
Seeing this, Kakashi reached out and patted Naruto on the shoulder, comforting him:
"Naruto, I know you're very strong now, but there are some things that strength alone can't solve."
Just then, the thick mist nearby finally dispersed, revealing Zabuza, who had been hiding within it.
Zabuza had already returned the Kubikiribōchō to his back. After hearing Kakashi's words, he said:
"Blond brat, don't listen to this guy Kakashi. What's this nonsense about strength not being able to solve every problem? That just means you aren't strong enough. Once you're powerful enough, you can solve everything.
"Kid, ask Kakashi. If you