Chapter 142:
The report of Konoha's victory over Hanzo reached the village early the next morning, delivered by a ninja hawk directly to the Hokage's office.
"Hahaha, Sarutobi, it seems your students have grown beyond anyone's expectations!" Homura Mitokado said with a pleased smile, sitting alongside Koharu Utatane.
"Yes, defeating Hanzo of the Hidden Rain… They're already formidable enough to stand on their own." Koharu agreed, nodding in approval.
Hiruzen smiled humbly, clearly pleased. "They've worked hard to reach this level. I just guided them. Their achievements are their own."
The news of the Sannin's victory spread quickly through Konoha. In no time, the village was buzzing with pride, and Orochimaru, Jiraiya, and Tsunade became heroes in the eyes of the villagers and aspiring young ninjas.
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Meanwhile, out on the battlefield in the Land of Rain, the trio had set up a small camp under a natural rock shelter, taking a moment to rest and warm themselves around a fire.
"It really happened," Jiraiya muttered, breaking off a piece of the ration biscuit in his hand and staring into the flames. "We actually won. The village won."
Tsunade, who was leaning comfortably against Orochimaru's lap, chuckled softly, still in disbelief herself. "Honestly… it feels surreal. We actually defeated Hanzo, the legendary 'Salamander' of the Hidden Rain? The guy they call a demigod?"