As a warrior who had fought in the fiercest battles and was among the last to return, Minato received an extremely warm welcome upon returning to the village.
The villagers lined the roads to greet them. Fireworks lit up the sky in bursts while thunderous cheers filled the air.
Among all, Minato's name was shouted the loudest.
He was Konoha's youngest commander, achieving at age twenty-one what most could only dream of throughout their entire lives.
He entered the Second Shinobi World War at the age of ten, later joined Anbu, and successively led teams through brutal battles in both the Land of Earth and the Land of Lightning.
He personally completed the final piece of the Ninja World unification.
A genius who rose from humble civilian origins, these accomplishments and titles made Minato a beloved figure.
He had already become an idol admired by many young people in Konoha.
Countless young women couldn't resist casting flirtatious glances his way.
"Minato Namikaze!"
"Minato Namikaze!!"
"Minato Namikaze!!!"
...
Hearing these heartfelt calls and cheers from the villagers, Yahiko and the others also felt a sense of pride.
Unfortunately, their names weren't being shouted by the villagers.
Of course there was some regret.
But everyone had their own path; they didn't really feel regretful.
From beginning to end, they never forgot they were members of Kakashi's big family—this was enough.
Minato looked excited, constantly keeping waving to show his gratitude to the villagers.
He felt honored to receive such overwhelming recognition.
Halfway through the journey, a flash of red entered Minato's vision.
Kushina stood within the crowd without trying to stand out, yet she stood out instantly to Minato.
Seeing Kushina glaring at him angrily, Minato wore a look of helpless resignation.
But what could he do about all those eager admirers?
At that moment when their eyes met, Minato's feelings were unmistakably clear, spoken not with words but with a glance.
"It seems like Kushina's jealousy is overflowing."
Standing beneath the Hokage Rock, Kawaki caught sight of the scene clearly.
"Haha~ This is exactly what happens when you're not officially married yet."
Tsunade loved watching the drama play out, though her point was indeed correct.
If Minato were already married, most of those girls wouldn't dare show such open interest.
When Nawaki returned, there hadn't been nearly as many romantic complications.
"It looks like we need to make plans for their wedding."
As Minato's teacher, naturally Kawaki took charge of this matter.
"Yes, once things settle down."
"We'll host a grand wedding ceremony for them."
Nodding, Tsunade agreed, and just like that, Minato and Kushina's wedding plans began to take shape.
Watching Minato's group slowly approach the Memorial Stone where numerous Konoha ninjas had already gathered,
"Let's go as well."
Kawaki gently took Tsunade's hand, and in the next instant, both abruptly appeared before the gathered Konoha ninja.
"Hokage-sama! Lord Kawaki!"
The sudden appearance of Kawaki and Tsunade didn't startle everyone—they immediately bowed respectfully.
Quietly stepping back behind Tsunade, today belonged entirely to her.
"Firstly, let us warmly welcome back Minato Namikaze and the expedition team."
With Kawaki leading the applause, thunderous clapping filled the area.
"After two long years, we have finally achieved our goal: the unification of the Ninja World."
"This outcome wouldn't have been possible without everyone's efforts."
"And even more so without these heroes who now lie in eternal rest."
"Today, on behalf of all past Hokages, I express my deepest respect toward these heroes."
At this point, Tsunade deeply bowed her head. Tears of emotion were already welling up in her eyes.
When she lifted her gaze again, tears had already begun sliding down her cheeks.
Sadness quietly spread throughout the area, and many people couldn't help but silently weep.
Lying there were their closest comrades, and beloved family members.
Watching from a distance, Hiruzen Sarutobi was also shedding tears like an old man. He recalled those passionate friends from long ago.
On a day like today, he knew he no longer deserved, nor had the face to stand behind Tsunade.
This is the glory of a new era, and for someone like him—someone who had made mistakes—being able to witness it with his own eyes was already a blessing.
"I believe each and every name here will never be forgotten."
"In the days ahead, I hope everyone can live on for their sake too."
"Unifying the ninja world is merely our first step; the path ahead is still long."
"But I believe that as long as we unite and work together."
"The future ninja world will definitely become the ideal place we envision."
"There will be no more wars, and everyone will live peaceful lives."
"Each person will have the freedom to explore every corner of the ninja world at their own pace."
Tsunade painted an inspiring vision for everyone, though even she had no idea how long it would take to realize it.
Only Kawaki could clearly envision a concrete plan to bring this vision to life.
It was up to him to guide Naruto back onto the right path!
"I'll gladly give my life for the Hokage-sama!"
A thunderous cheer echoed throughout the Hidden Leaf Village.
Perhaps no future Hokage would ever match her level of popularity again.
"Let us offer flowers and pour sake for the heroes."
Following Tsunade's command, the memorial ceremony entered its final stage.
After allowing sufficient time for mourning, Tsunade declared the gathering concluded.
However, even after the ceremony ended, some people still hesitated to leave, their joy and sorrow alike were heightened beyond measure on this single day.
As soon as dismissed, Minato eagerly reunited with Kushina.
"Well look who it is—the 'ladies' man' Minato!"
The moment Kushina saw Minato, she turned her head away, speaking sarcastically with biting sarcasm that immediately gave Minato a headache.
Here we go again—her dramatic act!
"Where did you get that idea? You're imagining things."
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"I only have one peach blossom."
Minato moved closer with a grin, turning Kushina to face him directly.
"Would you really give up an entire forest for just one odd-looking tree?"
"Don't you care about missing out?"
Kushina was secretly grinning inside but kept playing hard to get.
Knowing she was cherished, she playfully acted spoiled without hesitation.
"Who's blind enough to call you an odd-looking tree?"
"Just let me punch their mouth crooked."
Minato cleverly dodged what could've been a loaded question.
"Pfft, you're the blind one."
Kushina burst into laughter at Minato's serious look.
Who'd dare call her an odd-looking tree? Don't they know she'll beat them up?
"You're not angry anymore?"
"Then let's head out."
Seeing Kushina laugh, Minato immediately took her hand and pulled her toward the lively street.
"I haven't said I forgive you yet."
"Haha~"
Before long, the two disappeared into the crowd, seeming just like any other young couple.
For three whole days, Konoha was bathed in joy and celebration.
Aside from maintaining basic village operations, all the ninja were granted time off.
The shopkeepers in Konoha Village made huge profits during these days, unable to hide their smiles.
Everyone hoped these happy days would never end.
Unfortunately, joyful times are always short-lived, and Konoha eventually settled back into its usual calm.
Three days later, summoned by Tsunade, all the higher-ups gathered in the conference hall of the Hokage Building.
This was the first major gathering since the Ninja World had been unified.
...
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