A few days later, Yahiko officially took over as the leader of the Land of Rain.
After the inauguration ceremony, Yūto and Tsukimi packed their belongings and said goodbye at Amegakure's gates to Yahiko, Nagato, and Konan, who had come to see them off.
"This is far enough." Yūto waved. "The rest is up to you, our new leader."
Excitement still filled Yahiko's face. "Thank you for your help, Mr. Yūto. Without you, none of this would have been possible."
"You chose this path yourself. It's quite unusual, and it takes real resolve." Yūto nodded, then gave Yahiko a seemingly casual pat on the shoulder. His smile remained, but a trace of seriousness entered his voice as he reminded him:
"But don't forget that agreement we made, all right?"
Yahiko immediately nodded. "Rest assured, Mr. Yūto! Whenever you need us, when a truly powerful enemy threatens you or Konoha, Akatsuki and I will stand by your side without hesitation! That is my promise as Yahiko, and the promise of the Land of Rain and Akatsuki."
"Good! That's what I like to hear!" Yūto nodded in satisfaction. "Then we'll head back. There's probably quite a backlog of work waiting for me in Konoha. Nagato, Konan, take care of yourselves too."
"Have a safe journey."
"Lord Yūto, Miss Tsukimi, be careful on the road."
After bidding farewell to the three from Amegakure, Yūto and Tsukimi began their journey back to Konoha.
After several days of travel, the familiar Konoha Gate finally appeared before them.
Looking at the gate ahead, Yūto kept feeling as though he had forgotten something.
"Whew, we're finally back!" Tsukimi breathed a sigh of relief. Smoothing her windblown hair with one hand, she complained helplessly, "But for the next few days, Tsunade and that Pakura definitely won't leave me