Once Gaara woke up, Naruto could finally breathe easy. After all, Gaara was his age, just like him. Gaara had already become the Kazekage, which left Naruto feeling a little envious. He was still a Genin, wasn't he? Comparing yourself to others really could drive you mad.
Word that Meihui was still alive had already reached Tsunade. When she learned that the little brat had survived, she didn't even notice the corners of her mouth lifting.
Tsunade hurried to tell Jiraiya that Meihui was alive, too. When Jiraiya heard the news, he let out a long sigh of relief.
Meanwhile, Meihui had no idea his appearance had caused such a stir.
After completing the mission to rescue Sunagakure, he headed back with the main Konoha force.
Before long, everyone returned to Konoha. As expected, Tsunade summoned Meihui to the Hokage's office, with Naruto and Jiraiya coming along.
Looking at how much Meihui had changed, Tsunade forced herself to remain calm. "All right, brat. Start explaining. Where exactly have you been these past few years, and why didn't you come back?"
Meihui knew he probably wouldn't get out of this easily unless he answered.
"Sigh. The truth is, someone rescued me after I was badly injured that day. I stayed away so long because I hadn't fully recovered. Although I was saved, I lost all the strength I used to have. That was the price I paid to survive."
Looking at Meihui, Tsunade could probably guess some of what he had been through.
"It's all right now, brat. Since you're back, just stay put in Konoha."
"Okay, but I'd like to bring back the person who saved me. Would you allow that?"
"Oh? The person who saved you? I didn't expect you to be so grateful. Hahaha, permission granted."
Meihui breathed