Once they had settled their plans, the two groups parted ways. Jiraiya took the youngsters back to Konoha along their original route, while Yechen and Tsunade headed for Shikkotsu Forest.
The entrance to Shikkotsu Forest's barrier was not within the Land of Fire. According to Tsunade, it lay beneath the sea between the Land of Whirlpools and the Land of Water.
To save time, Yechen used the Flying Thunder God Technique to take Tsunade near the Land of Whirlpools, but they still had to travel the rest of the way on foot.
As they traveled, Tsunade was deeply curious about Yechen and asked him many questions. Yechen hid nothing and answered each one.
Their conversation also made Tsunade trust Yechen a little more.
"You don't seem interested in inviting me to join the Gods Alliance. Why?"
Tsunade's sudden question caught Yechen off guard.
When he did not answer, Tsunade continued.
"Am I not strong enough?"
"No. I just thought you wouldn't agree."
Yechen replied.
"Why?" Tsunade asked, puzzled.
"Since you chose to leave the village, I figured you were sick of war and wanted an ordinary life. Although the Gods Alliance was founded on the ideal of peace in the Shinobi World, conflict is unavoidable," Yechen explained.
"So I thought you wouldn't want to get dragged into this vortex again."
"Heh, how do you know I won't agree if you don't even try?"
Yechen had not expected that response, so he asked,
"Then I formally invite you to join the Gods Alliance. Will you accept?"
"No," Tsunade replied without a moment's hesitation.
"Uh...!"
Yechen froze, feeling as though he had been played.
"Hahaha..." At the sight of his expression, Tsunade burst into hearty laughter.
"Is it that funny?" Yechen asked helplessly.
"Of course... not. Why don't you try a little