The smoke of battle at the Throat of the Raging Sands finally began to dissipate several days later.
An indescribably complicated atmosphere hung over the Konoha camp.
Flags snapped in the wind, symbols of victory, yet an invisible, oppressive cloud seemed to loom over the camp.
Their victory was beyond doubt.
Sunagakure's main force had suffered a devastating blow. Led by Ebizo and a dangerously unstable Chiyo, its battered remnants had withdrawn entirely from the Throat of the Raging Sands and sent Konoha an offer of peace.
After a prolonged struggle and horrific sacrifices, the Land of Wind front had finally reached a decisive turning point.
Konoha's forces now threatened the heart of the Land of Wind.
The ninja in the camp wore exhaustion on their faces, along with relief at having survived.
Around the campfires, some spoke quietly of the dangers they had faced, some wiped down bloodstained weapons, and others silently chewed their food, replenishing their depleted strength.
The joy of victory was real. It showed in the fleeting smiles survivors exchanged, in the heartfelt "thank you" when they received extra supplies, and in their brief hopes for the future.
Yet deeper grief and anguish had torn that joy to shreds.
The list of the dead was long. Very long.
Almost every squad had lost companions they knew well.
Stifled sobs often rose from some corner of the camp, grief that could no longer be contained.
The mingled scents of medicinal herbs and blood filled the air. The medical area remained overcrowded, and the groans of the wounded and the medical ninja's weary yet firm instructions constantly reminded everyone of the terrible price of this victory.
The darkest shadows, however, came from two sources.
The first was Dan Katō's death.
The news could neither be concealed nor brushed