Three years had quietly passed since the Six Paths Life-and-Death Shogi match that decided the Shinobi World's future ended, with Naruto Uzumaki and the Sage of Six Paths fighting to an exhausted draw.
Time flew by. Through everyone's combined efforts, the Shinobi World entered a brand-new era of relative peace, open exchange, and dedication to improving livelihoods and advancing technology.
Old divisions and hatred had not vanished entirely, but reconciliation and cooperation had become the prevailing trend.
And the blond young man who had turned the tide in the battle in the Pure Land, displaying godlike power-Naruto Uzumaki-had become the Shinobi World's de facto spiritual leader and one of its highest decision-makers, thanks to his unrivaled prestige, strength, and commitment to peace.
He frequently toured the regions, coordinated relations, promoted new technologies, resolved disputes, and vigorously pushed for improvements in people's lives.
That day, in Kusagakure, in the Land of Grass.
This small shinobi village, once ravaged by the great shinobi wars and known for its tenacity and tendency to bend whichever way the wind blew, had been transformed.
Orderly streets, newly built homes and public facilities, and lush fields and orchards all testified to the tremendous changes of the past three years.
All of it was inseparable from that legendary figure's attention and support.
It was a bright, sunny morning.
The main road at the village entrance was already packed shoulder to shoulder. An almost fanatical excitement and anticipation filled the air.
Someone shouted first, "He's here! Lord Hokage is here!"
In an instant, it was as though a powder keg had been ignited!
"Lord Hokage!!"
"Lord Sixth!!"
"Lord Hokage!!!"
Deafening cheers erupted like a tidal wave.
Countless villagers poured out from the roadsides, windows, and rooftops. They raised their hands high, their faces flushed with overwhelming excitement, some