When they left the village, Team 7 had to protect Tazuna, and the atmosphere during the journey had been tense and grim.
Now that their mission was successfully completed, everyone felt relaxed on the return trip, chatting and laughing along the way.
The group once again climbed the hill they had crossed on their way in and gazed down at the Coastal Town below.
Kakashi couldn't help sighing. "When we arrived, I thought this country had little hope. But looking at it as we leave, it's full of life, with limitless potential."
"Yeah, it really is." Naruto nodded in agreement.
Haku had a Spore Clone with her, and he had left the clone ten Flying Thunder God Talismans before departing. With those, there would be nothing to fear even if Nagato sent the Akatsuki here later.
And with the Spore Clone there, the results of Gato's interrogation and the wealth amassed by the Gato Group would ultimately end up in his hands.
The next time I come here, I'll have everything in place and be a free man. That will be the day I begin making my moves across the world and making a name for myself, Naruto thought.
Once Team 7 officially left the Land of Waves, Haku became thoroughly occupied. She had to prepare for the world Cooking Competition that would be held here in three years.
To successfully host an event of that scale, the Land of Waves would undoubtedly need to demonstrate its wealth, strength, and influence.
So, for some time to come, Haku would follow the management methods taught by the Spore Clone to reorganize the Land of Waves' agriculture, industry, and education.
On the second day of Team 7's return journey.
In Konoha, among the bushes beside a stream in the wooded hills.
A