C 88(2)

Back in the day, the Second Hokage was hailed as the fastest shinobi in the ninja world. Now, that title might be reborn in the hands of his apprentice's disciple.

Sarutobi Hiruzen was well aware of the challenges space-time ninjutsu posed. If Minato could master it, Konoha would have a significant edge and would no longer need to fear Kain's use of similar techniques.

As soon as Mitokado Homura left, Jiraiya suddenly leaped in through the window, landing lightly. 

Without wasting a moment, he said, "Old man, Namikaze Minato has learned the Flying Thunder God Technique. Their team is now capable of handling missions independently."

Sarutobi Hiruzen coughed twice before replying, "I'm already aware. So, what are your plans?"

Jiraiya hesitated briefly before answering, "I want to leave the village to gather information—especially about the Child of Prophecy."

"No," Sarutobi Hiruzen responded firmly. "The ninja world is too tense right now. You must remain in Konoha."

"But, old man, the Child of Prophecy is just as important!" Jiraiya protested.

Hiruzen's tone turned sharper as he replied, "All the Jōnin are stationed at their posts. Sakumo hasn't returned in nearly half a year. If you leave the village now, it will be the same as when Sakumo left."

Jiraiya quickly shook his head. "No, no, I'm not suited for that kind of mission at all."

He thought back to how unsuitable he was for stealth missions. Sneaking into enemy territory to assassinate targets and frame other villages was not his forte. 

His strength lay in summoning large creatures like Gamabunta. The moment people saw the toad, they would know Jiraiya of the Sannin was involved, making framing someone else impossible.

"Then stay in Konoha and wait for your next mission," Sarutobi Hiruzen commanded.

The Third Hokage was unwilling to let Jiraiya leave while the threat of war loomed. Though Hiruzen trusted in Mount Myōboku's power, he was far less convinced by the prophecy of the Child of Destiny.

Jiraiya had already spent three years in the Land of Rain, causing unrest among Konoha's leadership. 

If it weren't for Hiruzen's personal protection, Jiraiya might have ended up in Konoha's prison. After all, no other shinobi in Konoha had ever been allowed to stay outside the village for three years during wartime.

After a heated debate between master and apprentice, Jiraiya ultimately relented. He knew that if he left the village without permission this time, he might no longer be considered a Konoha shinobi. 

Reluctantly, he abandoned his plans.

Konoha Hospital

"Tsunade-sama, these are the documents screened yesterday that require your approval," Yakushi Nono said as she entered Tsunade's office, holding a stack of papers over half a meter tall.

After placing the stack of documents on the table, Yakushi Nono suddenly twitched her nose, adjusted her glasses, and said to Tsunade with certainty, "Tsunade-sama, you've been drinking, haven't you?"

"Nonsense! As the director of Konoha Hospital, how could I drink alcohol while working?" Tsunade retorted, slapping the table. "That's just chemical alcohol. I was researching new medical ninjutsu, and the smell hasn't dissipated yet."

"No," Yakushi Nono replied calmly, sniffing the air again. "This is Aokawa wine from Kain's izakaya. The smell of medical alcohol is sharp and pungent, but this wine has a delicate fragrance."

Her eyes flicked briefly toward the cabinet near Tsunade's desk. Then, with a small shake of her head, she continued, "It's rare to see you in such a good mood, teacher. But still, it's better to enjoy a drink after work."

"Alright, Nono, I get it!" Tsunade huffed, trying to keep her composure.

Tsunade didn't lose her temper. Nono was a responsible and attentive student, and in this instance, Tsunade was clearly in the wrong. She had no valid reason to snap at her.

As Nono began organizing the documents, she asked casually, "Why was Tsunade-sensei in a bad mood recently?"

Tsunade hesitated for a moment. Deciding it wasn't a big deal to share, she explained her recent troubles, mentioning the difficulty of being caught between her loyalty to the village and her personal friendships. 

One of those friends might inadvertently—or deliberately—bring harm to the village.

"Mr. Kain wouldn't do what you described," Nono said firmly, her tone calm but decisive. 

"Medicine is meant to save lives, not harm the village. If that were the case, then doctors in other countries would also be considered a threat to Konoha."

Her voice remained steady as she continued, though the reflection on her glasses obscured her true expression. "Mr. Kain has been supporting war orphans in three different orphanages. Tsunade-sama, why not ask those who vilify him whether they've ever done the same?"

With that, Nono gave a slight bow and left the office, leaving Tsunade in deep thought.

Afterward, Yakushi Nono began carefully piecing together clues about Tsunade's recent emotional state. 

She reflected on who had been spending time with her teacher lately and noted when the changes in Tsunade's demeanor had first begun.

Once Nono had reviewed all the details, she compiled her findings—names, times, and her theories—and relayed them through a unique communication method she shared with Kain.

While she felt a pang of guilt for reporting on Tsunade, Nono's loyalty to Kain outweighed her reservations. 

The reason was simple: Kain was supporting children in three orphanages. For Nono, his actions spoke louder than any doubts or accusations, and if forced to choose between Tsunade and Kain, she would always choose the latter.

….

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