Shinobi Striker: The Ninja's Bonds

02 - Edge of the Storm -

Nezuto, Mei, and Chinatsu nodded in agreement. The journey back to the Hidden Leaf would be challenging, but they were determined to fulfill their mission and expose the truth about Orochimaru's forbidden activities.

Erika's expression softened as she regarded her team. "I'm proud of you all," she said. "You showed great resilience and skill in the face of Orochimaru and his forces. Together, we'll bring an end to his dark reign and ensure the safety of our village."

"Don't forget, Orochimaru and Kabuto still got Sasuke Uchiha somewhere in their unknown hideout. That's the Team Kakashi's job." Nezuto Uzumaki said.

Erika nodded, acknowledging Nezuto's reminder. "Yes, we can't forget about the Team Kakashi's mission to find Sasuke. Once we deliver the evidence against Orochimaru to Lady Tsunade, our priority will be to support Team Kakashi and help reunite Sasuke with his friends and comrades."

"That remains a question if Sasuke will be convincing to be back in the Leaf since he left the village to joined Orochimaru's side and used his powers to kill his brother Itachi, who is the one who slaughtered the entire members of the Uchiha Clan for power." Nezuto said.

"You're right, Nezuto. We can't predict how Sasuke will react when he's found," Erika acknowledged. "But regardless of his choices, it's our duty to try and bring him back to the Leaf Village. After all, he is a valued member of our community, and I believe in our village's ability to guide and support him."

Nezuto nodded, appreciating Erika's perspective. "Lady Tsunade will decide the best course of action once we return and share our findings with her," he said.

"Let's stay focused on the task at hand," Erika said. "Our priority right now is to make it back to the Leaf Village safely and deliver the critical information we've gathered. Lady Tsunade will need to see the evidence and hear our report first hand. Together, we'll work on a plan to confront Orochimaru and bring Sasuke home."

With that, the team resumed their journey back to the Hidden Leaf Village, their determination unwavering and their trust in each other unwavering. They knew the road ahead would be challenging, but they were prepared to face whatever obstacles came their way in their pursuit of justice and the protection of their village.

Erika and her team eventually returned to the Hidden Leaf Village and made their way to the Hokage's office to report their findings. Lady Tsunade, impressed by their efforts, thanked them for uncovering the truth about Orochimaru's experiments and the threat of his forbidden techniques.

"With the evidence you've gathered, we can take action against Orochimaru and put an end to his dangerous experiments," Lady Tsunade said.

"Not only that, we found pictures of him and Lord Danzo of the Foundation." Nezuto said.

Lady Tsunade's expression hardened upon hearing the mention of Danzo and the Foundation. "The Foundation... Their involvement complicates matters," she said. "But thank you for bringing this to my attention."

Lady Tsunade took a moment to gather her thoughts, and then she looked at the team with determination. "This evidence and your report will help us form a proper strategy to deal with Orochimaru and the Foundation's involvement."

"It seems Orochimaru is actually Danzo's right-handed man and those two have been secretly allies for many years." Nezuto Uzumaki said.

Lady Tsunade clenched her fists, anger and determination evident in her expression. "This collaboration between Orochimaru and Danzo is deeply troubling," she said. "Their alliance poses a significant threat not only to our village but to the entire ninja world."

She gazed at Erika and her team with a resolute look. "Now more than ever, it's crucial to unite our forces to stop their nefarious plans. You have brought us valuable information, and we must act swiftly to counter their actions."