It is three days later, and Sasuke stands before the familiar green gate, fresh supplies lending a satisfying weight to his traveling pack. He is not leaving or entering, but simply waiting, and subconsciously he notes that this is the least trying of the three.

His head snaps around as he hears his name called, and then he catches sight of Sakura, strolling towards him.

Her hair is pulled away from her face by a simple blue band, similar to Konoha's forehead protectors sans the Hidden Leaf symbol. She's wearing her simple red training outfit, partially obscured by a long white traveling cloak and canvas knapsack akin to those he himself carries. She waves a small scroll at him as she approaches.

"The official mission from the Hokage," she explains, reaching him. "S-rank. I'm to, how did he phrase it, investigate potential medical resources in the remote shinobi lands while simultaneously monitoring a previous, long-term travel assignment."

Sasuke shakes his head in amusement as she grins at him.

No, he hasn't yet earned the right to truly return to Konohagakure. But maybe, he thinks, watching Sakura determinedly stroll past the gates ahead, he can bring the best of it with him.