With nearly everything in Konoha arranged, Anyo finally returned to his former "prison cell." He intended to seal this place off for a long time and left his Wood Release Clone here to deal with the Night of the Massacre that might happen in the future.
His original body walked out and opened the familiar barrier. Anyo took a few lingering looks before preparing to leave.
"Are you leaving? Can you take me with you?" A cool voice rang out behind Anyo.
"Yugao, what are you doing here?" Anyo was somewhat surprised.
Yugao did not answer, instead saying her piece. "I heard you've been hunting Orochimaru. I want to go with you."
I almost forgot I pinned something on Orochimaru. To think Yugao still remembers. But I'm counting on him to save my life now. How could I possibly take you along?
Anyo shook his head in refusal.
Yugao grew anxious. "I can definitely help you."
"That's not why. I'm not going out to hunt Orochimaru this time. I'm leaving Konoha, and I might never come back."
"Why?"
"There's something wrong with my body. It's serious, and I need treatment. I don't know when I'll recover, either, so..."
Yugao interrupted, "Then that's all the more reason for me to come with you. If something happens, you'll have someone to help."
Anyo smiled gently. "Thank you, Yugao. I'll be fine. I made it through so many hardships during the Third Shinobi World War. This time will be no exception."
Realizing Anyo had made up his mind, Yugao took two steps forward and said, "Can you give me a hug? Like back on Kikyo Mountain."
"All right." Anyo readily agreed, stepping forward to give her a light hug.
Their shadows merged in the sunlight. Just as Anyo was about to let go,