Chapter 62: Jiraiya
When the injured were taken to Konoha Hospital, the conscious Ninja reported the battlefield situation to Tsunade. She could only offer words of comfort and apply medicine to suppress the Ibuse toxin, temporarily saving their lives. Taking a blood sample of the toxin to the laboratory, she began her research.
However, the Ibuse toxin was complex, and even Hanzō himself had been affected by it. Developing an antidote would take significant time, and for now, Tsunade could only use other medicines to stabilize the injured and prevent their conditions from worsening.
As Tsunade worked tirelessly, the Hatake Clan remained peaceful, unaware of the defeat. Kawakaze, Sakumo, and Duy sat together, enjoying tea. Nayuki held Kakashi and listened from the side. Meanwhile, Onimaru, ever the devoted father, began teaching the white puppy how to interact with humans. Nawaki and Minato, taking a rare break, played with the two dogs. Despite their strength, their teenage years still held moments of innocence.
"We're leaving tomorrow," Sakumo said, sipping his tea, addressing Nayuki.
"I've already packed your things," Nayuki replied, glancing at Kakashi. "You'll be the only one to keep Mom company in the days to come."
"I wonder if the front is still fighting," Kawakaze said, trying to gauge the situation on the battlefield, unaware that Orochimaru had already returned, defeated.
"Maybe they've already reached the heart of the Land of Rain," Duy remarked with an optimistic smile, his experience from the last war making him underestimate Amegakure's strength.
"Haha, that would be great," Sakumo said, laughing heartily in agreement.
Before Kawakaze could caution against being too optimistic, the butler entered, leading Orochimaru into the dojo.
"Kawakaze," Orochimaru called, nodding to Sakumo and Duy.
"Orochimaru, why have you returned?" Kawakaze asked, a sense of unease growing in his chest. Victory couldn't have come this quickly.