The aftermath of the Valley of the End slowly subsided in Konoha, but it left wounds that would be difficult to heal. Sasuke's defection-especially his attack on Sakura and his unhesitating decision to join Orochimaru-cast a heavy shadow over Team 7 and all their fellow graduates.
Naruto sank even deeper into guilt and anguish, convinced that he had failed to bring Sasuke back because he was not strong enough. Those intense negative emotions even stirred the Nine-Tails' chakra for a time, leaving him dangerously unstable.
Faced with this situation, Jiraiya stepped forward. He proposed to Tsunade that he take Naruto away from Konoha for three years of training, both to bring the Nine-Tails' power under control and to systematically teach him stronger ninjutsu, preparing him for whatever upheavals the future might hold.
After careful consideration, Tsunade approved Jiraiya's request. She knew that the Nine-Tails within Naruto would be a crucial fighting force in the future and had to be guided properly.
The day of departure arrived. At Konoha's gates, Naruto carried a small pack on his back. His eyes held less of their usual restless exuberance and more of a weighty resolve.
"Pervy Sage, I'll get stronger! Strong enough to bring Sasuke back!" Naruto told Jiraiya, clenching his fists.
"Hmph, don't talk big, kid. The training ahead could kill you." Jiraiya rapped him on the head, though his eyes held hope. He then looked at Kakashi, Sakura, and the others who had come to see them off, before his gaze finally settled on Ling.
"Ling, I'm leaving the village to you youngsters. Don't slack off," Jiraiya said pointedly.
Ling nodded. "Have a safe trip, Lord Jiraiya. You too, Naruto."
Naruto looked at Ling and suddenly called out, **"Ling! You'd better keep working hard too! When I get back, we'll have