Same universe as Good News During Hard Times.

Also just to note, I used very technical terms when describing pipe smoking, which Jiraiya does from time to time in canon. So to clarify he's smoking tobacco not the devil's lettuce but given the context I wouldn't blame the poor man.

Slowly his eyes shut. For a moment. Just for a moment. The wind had stopped blowing and a hint of warmth soaked back in. The wash of heat from his nose that came with exhaling wasn't so strong. It's so quiet out. It's peaceful. With all his layers on he could just relax and fall asleep.

"Papa." A familiar little voice calls his attention.

Jiraiya inhales deeply. Come on, kid! He just sent his little girl away to go learn a new skill. He's perched not so far away to watch her. Or was... the opportunity to smoke presented itself and he hadn't indulged in the habit in years. It's only been an hour tops! She's clever but not that clever.

"Papa!" She was more insistent.

With a slow exhale, Jiraiya opens his eyes. Once the smoke clears, his eyes are met with the white sky. Flakes of snow are falling down in his vision. Caressing his cheeks and sticking to his eyelashes. He slowly lowers his head. Hayami is standing in front of him, holding her hand in a peculiar way.

Worry built in his body. Like a hand squeezing his esophagus as he realizes his child is bleeding. She has on a strong face. She's not crying or shaking, just looks concerned. Her brows furrowed as she processes the new sensation of a wound. Blood seeps through her fingers as she braces her hand with her other. Drops are falling and staining the snow at her feet.

Oh god. His baby! He slid down from his perch, one of the large almost fairy like mushrooms that naturally grow around the mountain. He threw his pipe away without care, it landed and immediately got lost in the growing blankets of snow. You don't like the smell of it and he didn't like doing it around his kids. With a promise of cookies, Hayami wouldn't tattle on him. A day of training was the perfect time to indulge in his bad habit. His child was away from it and the open cold air was nicely offset by the earthy warmth of the tobacco... It was nice while it lasted. Now his child is bleeding and he didn't care about anything else.

"What happened, honey?" Jiraiya asks. He crouched down before her and gently pulled back her sleeve.

"I was practicing like you showed me and I made a mistake." Hayami briefly explains. Her eyes are wide with concern. "I'm sorry, papa. I'll do better next time."

Since Hayami was now being trained as a ninja, Jiraiya has been trying to be less of a mama hen. He would still take a fireball to the face for her but he doesn't hold on as tightly. She needs to grow. She needs to learn. Being tough on her will benefit her. It's still hard to do. He loves her more than anything. She wasn't so used to him being critical of her actions, but he had to be her teacher now as well as her father.

"Don't sweat it, kiddo. I know you do your best." He encourages her. He took a small peak at the wound and frowned. It's no small cut. It's rather large for her little hand. He undid the scarf that was around his neck and wrapped it around her hand instead. "Let's go back to the house. That wound needs to be looked at properly."

"Oh." She's not thrilled.

It's understandable. Kana has been a nightmare the last few days. The newest arrival to the family was already over ten months old. With that age came the worst of teething and getting the hang of toddling. He's been a terror. Crying his eyes out from the uncomfortable pain of growing teeth and stumbling around throwing tantrums as a result of the pain he can't convey in any other way. You've been doing your best. Everyone has. Everyone was patient and calm in Kana's presence since he's also taken to imitating those around him. Even with his family being calm and positive, it does little to comfort his pains. These outings for training were the only moments of peace Hayami got from it all.

She's been doing her best. Yet she's also jealous. She's a child, so of course she's not going to be totally rational. She's not the baby of the family anymore and knows that meant less attention. Along with being tougher on her for training purposes, she's been a little down. She loved training since it was one on one time with her father. She does try her absolute best as to not disappointment him. Not that he could ever be disappointed in her. She's a marvellous girl. Smart and quick on her feet. She just needs some guidance. Her strengths are already shining through. Close range with an eye for detail. She might be well suited as a strategist. A leader.

The journey to the house was quiet. Hayami putting on her bravest face as she clutched at her makeshift bandage. It was her first real injury. She's tripped plenty of times or fallen out of trees, but recovered quickly as all young children do. It does worry him. Jiraiya continues to glance at her, checking for more wounds. It feels like more will simply pop out of her skin.

Getting closer to the house didn't bolster anyone's mood. The wails of a toddler muffled through the walls was hardly comforting. Kana is at it again. Hayami sighs quietly, even her nerves are getting worn down from it. Jiraiya opened the door for her and let's Hayami walk in first. She cringes from the sound. The sight is just as bad as the sound.

Shima and Fukasaku had left the building long ago. They went out to search for food since the unusual winter hit. Snow and cold in Mount Myōboku was rare. They didn't prepare for it. They were worried about the rationing since they were helping feed four more people. Jiraiya will usually help when he can. Taking in some of the vegetables and fungus he once collected when he was younger. He knew the resources of the mountain well enough. Of course it now feels unwelcome. Since well... grumpy children and exhausted adults don't make good company.

It just felt a little tense. Strained. Both of the elderly toads insist they don't mind. They love having their adoptive human family around. But if it's starting to hurt their own health then it's best to carry on. That was a conversation he yet has had with you. Best to save it for later. At least looking at the snow was beautiful. It's been so long since he's seen snow. Last time he did you and him were still child free.

You are frantic. A mess. Your hair tangled and clothing disheveled. You are holding Kana, pacing back and forth with the toddler while rocking it in an attempt to soothe the babe. You were offering a half frozen dish cloth for Kana to chew on to soothe his growing teeth. There were a few cloths that were stuck outside for this reason, but he wasn't too interested in it. He kept looking at you and crying. His face bright red and stained with tears as a result.

"Come on, sweets. To the kitchen." Jiraiya spoke in hushed tones as he gently pushed Hayami along.

She was staring at you, watching as you fail to soothe her younger sibling. It's clear she didn't like seeing you like that. No one really does. She trots on with little complaint to the kitchen. From here Jiraiya picked her up and set her on the wooden countertop right beside the sink. He crouched down and opened the cupboard underneath her feet to pull out the med kit. It was probably the same one from when he was a kid. It was old and worn, but opening it revealed that the contents inside were perfectly fine. He grabs what he needs and gets to work.

"Alright, let's see that hand again." He said as he gently began to unwrap the scarf from her hand. The mitten she had on had to be peeled off next. The knitted fabric was now torn open from the knife and clinging to her injury as it soaked up the blood.

She winced when the fabric pulled on her cut. It gave way with ease, with only a few loose strands to pull off of the edge of the wound. From there, Jiraiya could inspect it properly. It was a stab, but also a cut. The deepest point just under her pinky and it angled diagonally down and across her palm. He rinses it out before dabbing away more blood. It's weird. He's surprisingly more calm than he thought he would be at the sight of his child's first real injury. Perhaps being sleep deprived has overtook his default mode to worry. Kana has kept everyone up with his crying.

"This stuff will probably sting a little, okay?" Jiraiya warns as he held up the bottle of hydrogen peroxide.

"Okay."

Hayami clenched her eyes shut and her body tenses as she prepares for the worse. He sprays her hand down, watching as the bubbles form on the possible dirt and germs on her cut. She does cringe a little, but she's a brave girl that never did complain much. He pats it dry with a clean gauze pad before grabbing the real roll of bandages.

"Tell me exactly what happened." He wanted to know, but kept his tone soothing as to not freak her out. Plus talking about it will distract her as he finishes tending her wound.

"I was doing what you showed me, papa. Climbing a tree with no hands." Hayami began her story. Her body relaxed and easier to work with now that she's focused on her story. "I was using the knife you gave me to mark my progress when I fell again. But when I fell, I dropped the knife too. I tried to grab it while falling and grabbed the wrong side."

"The wrong side, eh?" He can't help but smile a little. Oh to be that uncoordinated. Kids panic and grab all the time. She at least tried her best to recover.

"Yeah... sorry, papa."

"No need to apologize. Accidents happen." Jiraiya looks up at her and smiles. He finishes tying off the bandage. "I know you gave it your all. You're still new to all of this, no one expects you to get it the first time." He pauses again to give her injury a kiss. She may be getting big, but kisses still fix boo boos. "I'm proud of you."

She smiles at him. Perhaps her sleep deprivation has made her more sensitive. She's usually more confident in herself. But with Kana around she does want to still have both his attention and approval. She slid off of the counter and wrapped her arms around his neck in a hug. He is more than happy to accept it. Maybe he is too tired. It choked him up a little.

"You worked hard today, Hayami. How about you go play in the snow?" He offered a suggestion. She needs to have fun when she can.

"Will you come out with me?" She asks with her well practiced puppy dog eyes and bright hopeful grin.

It feels terrible to say no. But you need his help. Kana was only gaining in volume. Slowly but surely his son was becoming a weather siren. Every toad on the mountain could probably hear the little guy.

"I'm sorry, honey. Mama needs my help with Kana."

Her face does drop. She's disappointed that he can't spend more time with her. But all his family members need his attention. He kisses the top of her head and grabbed a the mitten from her spare set of mittens out from her bag and equipped her with the gear. Now set for a new winter adventure, she heads out. Her love of the weather overtook her disappointment and she quickly got absorbed in bellyflopping into snow piles.

Jiraiya takes a moment to rub his eyes before going to help you. Still the tired lingers on his lids. He pushes it back and focuses on what he has to do now, which is to be there for you. He turns around and approaches you, scooping Kana from your arms into his. The boy stopped for a moment, looking at his father with a pout before beginning to cry again.

"What's up, drooly? You complaining lots today." Jiraiya dives into speaking somewhat in that coddling tone everyone does to babies. He tosses his son into the air only a little... in your presence. He's tossed Kana up a few feet before when you aren't around to glare him down. The little guy loves to be tossed like a pizza, but the little bounces aren't bad either. It quiets him down a little.

"I've tried everything... he's just not having it." You say quietly. You rest your head on his shoulder for a moment.

He looks you over. You look kinda terrible. Tired, messy, and stressed. He sways from side to side, lulling both you and Kana into a relaxed state. But Kana was still in pain from his teeth. He reaches for Jiraiya's hair, wanting to munch on a lock for relief. He whines when it's taken away from him. No one here wants to deal with a baby choking on hair.

"How about you go rest? Curl up under the blanket and relax. I'll handle Kana for a while." Jiraiya offers.

"Really?" You ask.

"Yeah, of course. I can handle a crabby baby."

You smile. That does sound nice. You raise on your toes and purse your lips. He leans down and gives you a kiss. You pause after it broke. You lick your lips and hum. He tastes... ashy.

"Were you smoking?" You question with a frown.

"Um... I just had one bowl while Hayami was training." He explains himself. You open your mouth but he cut you off. "She wasn't around me when I was!"

You raise a brow. Okay... you believe him. He gave up the habit when Hayami was a baby but started up again when it got cold out. It's not something you condone. He assures you he's more of a social smoker or the occasional time when the mood strikes him. It could be worse. At least he's not doing it for hours. You look around, looking for where your daughter was.

"Where is Hayami anyways? I saw you two come in." You inquire her whereabouts.

"She's out playing in the snow."

"Snow? It's snowing?"

He smiles and nods. It's an easy thing to miss when you have a wailing child in your arms. Perhaps you saw it when grabbing a cold cloth but it didn't register. Kana requires lots of attention. Even now he's pulling at Jiraiya's hair and shirt while whining for comfort. One more kiss to husband and baby then you're off. Not until said husband pats your ass after you turn around.

He watches you leave, smirking and winking at you when you turned to look at him. As charming as you always are, you stuck your tongue out at him like in response. You went into the guest bedroom and shut the door. Even through the door, he heard you flop down and groan in satisfaction. Kana began to prod at Jiraiya's face, his chubby slightly wet fingers poking at his papa's cheek with a purpose.

"What's up, baby?" Jiraiya sighs and looks at Kana. "You've been giving mama a tough time, haven't you?"

"Bah... bahbah." Kana neither confirmed nor denied that question. He smacks his lips and pressed his gums together. His whiny cries picked back up.

"It's okay, drooly. We'll fix you up."

He traverses to the outside, baby in hand. Again Kana quieted down. His big dark eyes widening at the sight of snowfall. The gentle flakes have continued to fall at a consistent pace. The thin blanket had grown to a duvet. Hayami's deep footprints are leading away from the house in leaps. Her silhouettes of her spread out figure in the snow repeated several times. A few scoops are missing and the snowballs made with those scoops have been thrown around in different places. Against the house. Some trees. Hm... snowballs.

Jiraiya crouches down and sets Kana on the ground. The babe squeals in surprise when the cold dirt touches his feet. He kept ahold of Jiraiya's pant leg when those very secure hands had let him go. He watches as those hands reach out in front of him and scoops together a ball of snow. Jiraiya really makes sure it's compact, using some strength to really squish the ball together. Can't have the little guy work through it too quickly. He handed it to Kana, who took it with that wide wondering expression again. If Kana won't take his other chew toys, perhaps the snow will do the trick.

The toddler began to gnaw on the snow. His cries of discomfort finally silenced. The snow has pleased the wailing boy. His sore gums now being numbed and soothed. Jiraiya lets out a quiet sigh of relief. He picked Kana up and turned his baby to face him. Luckily he grabbed the half thawed cloth from you when he took Kana. His son's face is wet with tears, snot, and drool. Kana looks at him with curiosity while sucking on the snowball.

Kana, like a lot of babies, didn't like being cleaned. Jiraiya has to hold him in place whilst wiping off those adorable chubby cheeks. The coldness of the cloth will help soothe the little guy's red eyes. Kana shook his head when his papa wiped up his nose, hating that feeling the most. The drool can't really be helped. Even now Kana is drooling while eating snow. It's just a baby thing. He can at least wipe a bit off of Kana's shirt and chin.

For some time Jiraiya sat with Kana. The eaves of the roof was keeping them both safe and dry. The body heat Jiraiya produced was enough to keep Kana warm so long as he sat in the space Jiraiya's crossed legs made. Little hiccups come from Kana occasionally, but he was content. The relief the snow brought him had occupied him enough. Munching on it was taking up most of his focus. When he finally finished it, Jiraiya was ready with another one ready to replace it. Only he held it for a while this time, holding and massaging Kana's cold little hands in his free hand. But Kana was one to want independence and snatched his hands away to hold his own homemade icicle.

Crying and fussing all the time tuckers a little guy out. Kana wouldn't settle unless he was on his back in a cradle. It was harder now. Kana is getting too big for that. Jiraiya sucks it up, holding his son and patting the not so little baby's back. It instantly soothes Kana, his eyes closing and body relaxing. His little hands still kept hold of his snowball, sipping on it like it was a bottle.

It won't be much longer until Kana gets too big for this. It's still... nice. Warm. It fulfills him to hold his children as they rest. He truly feels like their protector when they feel so safe in his arms. Yeah... there will still be time for cuddles, but there is something so magical about it when they are still so little. Maybe it's because babies are so mysterious in their needs. Once they learn to talk, they say exactly what they want. It's still wonderful to hold his children and have them feel safe. No matter how old they get, he can't ever see himself closing off his arms to them.

Soft hiccups disturb Kana's deep breathing. He doesn't stir. His eyes stay shut and body limp. He's a bit of a mess today. Still in his jammies from yesterday. His hair was already long. At least a pinky's length and completely untameable. It too is white. Bright white. If thrown feet first into the snow, Kana would blend into the banks. It's a... bit odd to Jiraiya that his children take after him. Well... it's weird to him. Both have his likeness where they would benefit more if they look like you. You are far prettier. Much prettier. Yet his genetics are dominant in the pool. You like it but...

Perhaps he's just overthinking, but a part of him worries. To have his children look like him makes them more distinguishable in a crowd. What... what if someone took advantage of that? No. No don't even think it. He's just tired. There's no threats here. No one wants to steal his children. Or harm them. Not while he's around.

"Jiraiya-boy. Why are you outside?" The familiar sweet old voice of his grandmotherly mentor asks from in front of him.

He raises his gaze from Kana to Shima, who was indeed standing there. The old toad adorned in a grey cloak and holding a woven basket that had a cloth laid overtop to protect the contents from the snow. He smiles softly and hushed her.

"He just fell asleep. I wanted to show him the snow." He explains himself in a quiet voice.

"Ah.. that makes sense. It's so good to see him resting." She said with a smile. She hobbles to the protection of the eaves, brushing off some of the snow on her shoulders. "I suppose that means little Hayami is out playing in the snow?"

"Yeah. She needs some playtime."

"Aye, that she does. No child should be training all the time. She's quite like you in that regard."

"What do you mean?"

"Oh you know, that... zest for both. There's time for fun and time to work hard. It's nice to see you have taken our lessons to heart."

The small smile Jiraiya had on his face grew. That's praise he'll take. The sage toads were always good teachers. Even when he was a boy that was more interested in exploring every nook and cranny of the mountain, they encouraged it... so long as he completed a step in his training. Unlike home where his curiosity was often criticized, on the mountain he could always find a new place to discover with some positive reinforcements. If anything it's just nice to see Hayami wanted to explore and play around the similar routes he had treaded as a child.

"What about that lovely wife of yours, my boy? Is she outside too?" Shima asks. She took a spot right beside him, peering at the snoozing baby with a fond grin.

"No, she's asleep inside. Kana has been rather tiring to deal with today."

"Just today?" She asks with a laugh. She couldn't help but touch Kana's hand. He's a handful, but he's adorable. His little fingers squeezes at her webbed finger as it intruded. "He has been quite the crier this last week."

"Yeah..." Jiraiya was more absentminded in his reply. His thoughts are on you.

It's been hard to really be with you... Not that his love is in doubt, it's just you aren't around him. You're here but you aren't at the same time. Kana was your number one priority. As it should be. But you've neglected yourself in the process of raising the baby. Each night you are sleeping before Jiraiya even comes in from chopping firewood or helping with a few household chores. Half the time you miss dinner. It wasn't ideal. Out fo everyone, you're the most tired. You've sacrificed your health for your child. It's about time your husband does something for you. To help you unwind and relax.

"Lady Shima?" He ponders aloud.

"Shima, my dear boy." She corrects. "What do you want?"

"Right Shima." It still feels weird to drop the titles when he's used them since childhood. But they both insist they be called either their name or something like family. "Can I ask you a favour?"

"Anything."

He can't help but smile. The toads always make him feel like he's in the company of family. With parental figures ready to take on their roles as grandparents... It's just good. Warm. He'd never think he'd have elders that he can rely on to help him.

"Would you mind watching over the kids for a few hours? I need to do something... nice for my wife. She needs a break from all this."

"I would love to. So long as you tell me what got Kana to sleep!"

"He's a snow eater." Jiraiya phrases it as oddly as he can, he wouldn't be him if he didn't. He stands with sleeping toddle in hand to go back inside. "He'll probably be out for an hour and when he wakes up he'll be hungry."

"And little miss Hayami should be back by then. I can handle feeding them and getting them settled for the night." Shima says with a nod as she follows him. "But what exactly do you plan to do with your wife? There's not a lot of places I can think of that is secluded or romantic."

"I know a place. It'll be fine."

She doesn't have a brow to raise but her expression was just as suspicious of him. He simply smiles at her before quietly opening the door and setting Kana down into the makeshift cradle the pile of blankets in the corner of the room makes. He doesn't move too much in his sleep so the most he needs to restrain him is a blanket to tuck him in.

Now to wake you up. You are curled into a ball under a nice fluffy thick blanket. Where the toads got all these blankets, Jiraiya ain't got a clue. A couple he brought over when he was a young man when the last cold snap happened. Perhaps some of the toads that are contracted for travel went out to grab more when another winter suddenly hit. Whatever the reason it's nice to have so many to cuddle into. The most he sees is your hair and nose poking out of the covers.

"Honey?" He whisper calls for you as he gently shakes your shoulder.

"Hmmmmnnnnn." You groan and curl up tighter.

"Babe come on. I promise it'll be worth your time."

You huff and pull the blanket down to reveal your face. You look at him with tired eyes and a silent question. It was slightly harsh as your eyes were sharp with annoyance.

"Kana is down for a nap. Hayami is out playing. How about you and I have some fun?"

"How did you get Kana to settle down?" Your voice is groggy, but impressed with his feat.

"Magic and determination."

You scoff at his reply. Slowly you sit up and rub your eyes. Much to your surprise, Jiraiya moved in to grab you. He placed his arm under your legs at where they bend and mid back to lift you in proper bridal carry form. With the blanket wrapped around you and the warmth from his body, it was quite nice.

"How about it, babe? Feel like having an adventure?" Jiraiya asks you with a wink.

"Where exactly is this adventure?"

"It's... on the mountain."

You roll your eyes. You agree to whatever he has planned. He carries you out of the room and you close the door with care as to not wake up the cranky baby. He carries you to the front door, where your shoes are awaiting you. He set you down so you could get them on. But he's still a flirty perv. One that can't stop touching you. His arms around you and lips happy to peck around your neck.

He's still dressed for winter and ready to go. He still relies on old fashioned things like a hanten for a jacket. He's missing his scarf. But still has his mittens. He's adorably excited to take you out. The moment you are ready, he grabs your hand and steals you away.

The cold was more than you expected. It's not just a little bit cold out. No wonder why Jiraiya had red cheeks and ears when he came in to wake you. Despite how cold his face must be, he's grinning happily. He takes the first step, breaching past the comfort of the home into the winter. You have no choice but to follow. The once easy paths of the mountain were now more of a chore with shin high snow to trudge through.

It didn't deter your dear Jiraiya from hiking up the inclines with a fierce childlike determination. The deep snow was just another challenge. He faced it head on like he does to all challenges. He was ahead of you, conquering another slope with some difficulties. He was forced to slow down when the snow suddenly doubled in depth and he yelped in surprise when he sunk down to above the knees. He almost completely blended in with the ends of his hair now touching the snow so seamlessly it looks like another wind swept snow dune that had formed on the slope. You catch up with him and pass him, ignoring him completely when he whined in complaint.

"Wha-? Babe! Help me out here!" Jiraiya asks you while making grabbing motions towards you like a toddler.

"I'm sure my Great Toad Sage can escape some snow." You dismiss with a wave. You take careful steps so you don't sink down like he did. Casting a look to your left you see a set of smaller footprints and valleys that a little girl would make as she dragged herself through the snow.

Echoing laughs and shrieks of joy does confirm that Hayami is close by. The occasional shout of 'grandpapa' from her mouth suggests that Fukasaku is entertaining her with some kind of game. You hike further, following the sounds. Grumbles and the shuffles of snow from behind is telling that Jiraiya is digging himself out. You leave him to it as you try to find out what your daughter is doing.

You walk into a lopsided clearing that has quite the hill on the one side. It's steep and large. Climbing it, more like scrambling it was Hayami. She's struggling a little to get to the top, dragging along a man sized leaf, most likely plucked from one of the oversized foliage that grows naturally within the mountain. Fukasaku is watching from a perch atop a frozen mushroom on the slope. Once she reached the top, the old toad leaped onto the leaf and told her something. You are too far away to hear. You duck behind a stem when she turns around, not wanting to distract her from her fun.

"She's learning fast, eh?" Jiraiya spoke from behind you.

It startled you. Even in snow he's silent in his approach. You turn to him to see he's got snow stuck to his legs and mittens. His eyes are focused on his daughter, watching her with a smile as she shrieks in joy sliding down the mountain on the leaf she's using as a natural sled. At that moment it does dwell on you that this is her first winter. She's never been in the snow before. Each time winter comes about, you and Jiraiya plan a route that is far south to avoid it. So every winter Hayami was spending it on sandy beaches or humid rainforests. She was star struck when she first saw the snow. Curious on what one could do with the snow, she was determined to find out.

"That she is." You agree. You lean against him and put your arm around him, laying your hand on his hip. "She's quite clever. Like her father."

"Oh no, she's for sure just like her mother."

You shake your head. Such a flatterer. He's hard to compliment sometimes. He leans down to give you a kiss. He grabbed your hand that was on his hip and ducked down low whilst raising your arm up to spin out from under it like some kind of dance.

"Let's keep going, before it gets too dark." Jiraiya insists while beginning to lead the way again.

You follow, hearing Fukasaku make a similar comment to Hayami as you leave.

"Okay, one more run then we go back home, my dear. Ma will have dinner on the stove soon." The elder said in a nurturing tone.

"Okay, grandpapa! I'm hungry." Hayami agrees to this compromise.

It's nice seeing her having so much fun. She's still young after all. While it's important for her to learn how to defend herself, it's also important for her to still be a kid. It seems the balance has been successfully struck. She still finds enjoyment in the simple things in between learning how to strike bullseyes and how to successfully jump on a man's back to choke them out into unconsciousness. Ya know... the essentials.

Jiraiya continues to trek at an incline. Does he plan to take you to the very top of this mountain? You are starting to lose your breath. Your shins burn from lunging up the mountain. It does even out... eventually. He's waiting for you beside a cliff face wall. Dark stone and snow was cutting off any further travel. The wall continues for several miles on both sides. There's no way around aside from up. You'd have to climb over it to continue this ascent. He better not! Just how high does he plan on climbing? Does he want to toss you off this damn mountain?

"Where... are we going?" You growl at him, throughly done with this little adventure. You are tired. You are cold. Your husband's antics are not amusing anymore.

"Don't be a grump! Just a few more steps."

Jiraiya ducks down and enters into a crack in the wall. He was blocking it before, you hadn't noticed that there was a crack in the first place. His hand appears a moment later from the darkness that had swallowed him when he entered. Like the weirdly charming man he is, he forms his hand to look like a duck face sort of creature with his fingers straight out but pushed together with his thumb underneath them sort of like how one would control a hand puppet. He cocks his hand as if the puppet was looking at you.

"Follow wife." He moves his hand like it was speaking. He dropped his voice to be deeper and... well... sillier. After doing so he flipped his hand over in offer for you to take.

Sigh. He's a dork, but he's a dork you love dearly. You take his hand and he pulls you into the dark. It was pitch black in the crack. It was snug. It must be snugger for your man, who is much taller than you. Yet he navigated the thin cave structure like he was born in it.

"How do you know about this... cranny?" You ask.

"I found it when I was a kid, I often came here to... get away from everything for a while."

Get away? Probably from training. Or from the toads. He can be a bit of a hermit sometimes. An introvert at heart that needed some alone time to recharge. Sometimes he still does that. He likes to retreat to hot springs and bathhouses to do so. Or smoke somewhere quiet and lonely to set his head right. He's been doing it more often recently. Hayami was trying too hard. Kana has been more stressful to deal with. A loud screaming toddler, a child who wants to do her best, and an overtired wife must be stressing him out.

The darkness and snug walls of the cave broke. You nearly walked into him, stopping just shy of his back. It was still dark, just slightly better to see. The light was a colder one. Blue and green. It was as on the ceiling of this cave in clusters. Like stars, but closer and much brighter. For once the cosmos felt in reach. Oh... it's algae, or some kind of other bioluminescent creature. It's magnificent whatever it is.

It's much warmer in this cave and humid. More like spring on the mountain rather than the winter. It's very cozy. Jiraiya turns around with a grin. He's clearly quite proud of this discovery. Never a man to waste time, he began to take off his clothing.

"We're the only ones here. None of the toads seem to know that the source of their hot springs starts here." He said.

"Really? This is the source?" You question his claim.

"Yeah. If you go closer to that wall, you can feel the pull of the waterfall that goes into the big pool they all lounge in." He pointed to the wall across the natural room.

"Uh... that sounds dangerous."

"Heh, I've only ever fell down it once. I promise it's safe. Let's just not bring the kids."

Yeah that's a disaster waiting to happen. Both Hayami and Kana aren't the strongest swimmers. It would be best not to think about the consequences of a situation like that. Jiraiya began to distract you from such thoughts. He's undressed to his underwear, stopping there to help you catch up.

How does he find the time to stay so pretty? Fit and gorgeous. It's nice to touch... anywhere. From his face which hadn't changed all that much all these years, to his abdomen which was fit and defined by lines you always find the time to trace to all the way down to his toes. His legs can kick in any door. His ass quite bubbly for a man who doesn't got any fat on him. It's just... quite nice that it's all yours to enjoy.

"What? You're staring at me." Jiraiya asks.

"It's nothing bad, dear. I'm just admiring."

"So long as it is admiration and not judgment."

"Well, I do judge." You say with a coy grin. His hands finally reach the bare skin of your tummy. You reach up and caress his shoulders up to his neck. "Just not your hot bod."

He snorts. It turns into laughter as he holds you. He pulls you into a tight hug that forces you against him. You are much more squishy than he is, which he loves. A part of you is now more self conscious since you've given birth. All the rough side effects of childbirth does change a woman's body drastically. He doesn't really mind or care. So long as you are healthy, he's happy.

"What do you judge me for, my love?" He asks in jest.

"Nothing serious. Just the things all crotchety old married people judge one another for."

"Aw come on, we're at least a few years away from crotchety territory!"

You and him chuckle. He goes in to kiss you. Your lips and down your neck. As he does, he continues to undress you. He's gentle. He always is. Soon you are naked. He kicks off his remaining layer before happily leading you to the water. The warmth of it was just right. The lingering cold in your body was soon melted away by the warm water.

He pulls you down to your knees. He sits in the water with you. Sitting in the water makes the level up to your chest. It is rather nice to be alone with him like this. It's been what?... Two years since you got to hang out alone with him. No kids. No screaming. Just quiet and comfort. You scoot closer until you are sitting on his lap, arms draped over his shoulders and head rested on his chest. His hands run up and down your back slowly. It's firm as well, keeping you warm and loved.

"Still sleepy?" Jiraiya asks.

"A little." You confirm. You move one of your hands to find a section of his hair and began to play with it. "I missed you."

"We've been together everyday."

"Hardly. Sleeping beside you is not really spending time with you."

He sighs quietly. He kisses your head before resting his cheek against it. You play with his hair, just barely able to peek over his shoulder to see what you are doing. Curling a lock around your finger slowly does relax him. Much like his daughter, he likes his hair being played with. As you watch yourself, your mind returns to that thought of him being quietly stressed out.

"You enjoy being a parent, right? Your family isn't too much for you?" You ask in a quiet voice.

"..." Jiraiya hesitates for a moment. You feel his breath hitch in his throat. "N... No. I wouldn't trade this life for anything." He pulls you more flush against him, as if you would evaporate in his arms. "Don't ask things like that... it's scary."

"Sorry... You just seem stressed." You apologize and firmly press your hand against his back in a hug. "I guess sometimes I just wonder if you..."

"If I what?"

"If we all overwhelm you. I know it's not easy with three people to take care of."

"I don't mind taking care of the people I love. To be honest," he pauses and being next to his neck you can hear him swallow down the emotion that he was trying to control. "I'd never thought that I would be so lucky to have a family. I thought I would be living a lonely life. You... our children... they give me a reason to live."

You remain quiet, letting him release his emotions in a solitary silence. He didn't like it when you saw him emotional. He's always been your rock and he wants to maintain that status. But listening to his raw emotions was... nice. He's always so stoic it's hard to read him sometimes. A wonderful warmth spreads inside of you knowing that he still loves his life.

"It is really hectic. But that's what kids do. They're hectic little things." He continues to speak. His voice falls slowly until he's quiet, as if lowering the volume of his voice will help him get a grip on the waver that's in it. "But it's so rewarding to see them grow. The world isn't so bad with kids like them around, right?"

"Right." You agree. You straighten your back to raise yourself enough to give his cheek a kiss.

"It's all the more reason to have another!"

"Hm.." You give a thoughtful hum. He turns his head to look you in the eye. You give him a gentle quick kiss before speaking. "Maybe in a few years. I don't want to have them too close together."

"Good call. I'm just glad you're still interested in raising a couple more."

You smile. Even if it's a little stressful now, it's good to know he's still excited about this parenting adventure. Kana won't be like this for much longer. Once those baby teeth are in, he'll be much calmer. He was calm for a baby before this, even if he had a taste for trouble that Hayami didn't really have. Like getting into things and ignoring the word no to satisfy his curiosity. Hmm... even if they aren't far away, you miss him and Hayami.

Jiraiya is good at distracting you. You'll see them soon enough. For now, it's time to take full advantage of the seclusion he and you are in. You intertwine your fingers around the back of his neck. You slide closer until you are flush against him. For the first time since Kana was born, you and your husband indulge in one another. His hands grab your ass firmly. You Share heated kisses with him while your hips rut against his. Opportunities like this are too few now.

"Care for a ride?.." You whisper weakly, already breathless from the few passionate moments.

"Hah... y-yeah."

Like you've had so many times before, you mount and ride him. Nice and slow as to savour the rare opportunity. His hands help you raise and lower so that not as much strain is on you. No words are exchanged. It's fairly quiet. The heavy breathing and slosh of the water from the movement being the only thing that filled the cave. Pleasure like this was meant to be enjoyed like this.

It's lasts for a long time, ending at the safe shallow end of the spring. The pull of the water almost pulled him away, which is something you nor him wanted. The satisfaction that washed over not just you but him as well had taken away the stress. For some time, you lay on your back beside him with the water just barely caressing your mid back. It was just enough to not get too hot. Jiraiya was in a similar state. Laying beside you, enjoying the moment. His arms laid above his head in a lazy stretch. His breathing deep as he looks about ready to doze off.

You reach out to touch, stroking up and down his chest to his abdomen. His lax parted lips slowly curled into a smile. You roll until you hit his side. You lay on top of him, pulling his wet hair off of his skin. It's stuck to him like threads to staticky clothing. His eyes remain closed. His deep breathing rocks your body. With your chest squished against his, it was like a calm wave that rolled right under you. Some strands of his bangs were stuck to his face. You pull them away before kissing him again.

"We should go before it gets too late." You say.

"Hmmm." Jiraiya hums in acknowledgement. He didn't look particularly motivated to leave. His hand slings over your back to keep you pinned in place. "I could stay here forever."

"No you couldn't. You love too many things that wait for you on the outside."

"True." He agrees with a soft laugh.

You get off of him, leaving the cold air to settle in around him. Jiraiya finally opens his eyes, sighing as he builds the motivation to get up. The hot healing water and sex had turned his muscles to mush. They didn't want to move. He was so relaxed that the few knots that had tightened his shoulders were totally undone. He rolls to his side. From there he slowly got to his feet.

"I have something I have to ask you." He states as he drags himself to the pile of clothing you are picking apart.

"What's up?" You ask him to continue. You don't stop from your task of separating your clothing from his as you speak.

"How do you feel about leaving soon?"

That gets you to stop. A curious expression takes your face as you look at him.

"Did someone say something to you?" You ask.

"No. I've just been noticing that we're taking up more resources than can be replenished."

For some time you are quiet. Your actions slower as you put your bra back on as you mull his words over. That feeling of escape had left. The reality of the strain your family is causing the toads could be more than a few noise complaints.

"I'd hate to overstay our welcome." You finally say. "Do you think we've reached that point?"

"Yes. They won't say it. None of them will say that, but I think it would be best to move on."

"Then let's go." You agree.

It was just time. Most of the toads have migrated over to the lower edges of the mountain where the warmth still was. It was eerie and quiet on the once lively mountain. With no toads of unusually lard sizes to sass the humans that stay in their territory. Hayami has found it to be rather boring without much of her amphibious friends to pester and play with. The two elders had stayed simply to host their human guests. It would be better if they left with their kin for food and warmth. They won't so long as your family dwells with them.

"I say we go to the beach for the rest of the winter." Jiraiya suggests.

"That sounds good." You agree. Snow and cold, while beautiful does get old very quickly. Warm sandy beaches are much more desirable.

"I knew you would agree!" His voice echoes around the walls of the cave. He presses his body against yours and grabs your ass. "I'd much rather see you in a swimsuit than in a coat!"

"What if the coat is all I'm wearing?"

He chuckles in response. That ain't bad either. You look good in anything, but the heavy down coat that just barely covered up to your thighs that was unzipped and showing off the teasing sneak peeks of your body would be wonderful in its own way.

You finish getting dressed. You assist your husband in ringing out some of his hair. He takes his time getting his clothing on, often taking breaks to hold and kiss you. It's just been so long since he's been able to. He missed it more than he realized. You get him all wrapped up in his layers. He did slow down your progress with those wonderful kisses of his.

Jiraiya led the way back out again. The cold air was more unwelcoming to your skin. That bit of warm water that stuck to your skin and comforted you had now sucked in all the frosty air. It felt like the cold went right into your bones. All the more reason to hurry to the house. Jiraiya was on the same page, a shiver going through his body as soon as he stood out in the open winter. His damp hair froze when it hit the air, only freezing him further.

It was very dark out. The winter season meant early nights. It was already pitch black out despite it being just past six at night. You and Jiraiya hastily scuttle back to the house. The dark and quiet was a strange atmosphere to be in on the usually welcoming environment. The warmth of the sage toads home was very much needed. The chaos and rush of family will be a welcome distraction to offset this strangeness.

Instead of baby wails, it was shrieks. Shrieks is joy and excitement from a toddler. Kana was having fun doing something. He's probably making trouble. By how Fukasaku was calling for the boy to stop, it would seem so. You share a look with Jiraiya. He's smirking with a knowing look in his eye. That's his son after all. Only his bloodline can cause enough mischief to drive the endlessly patient sage toads to their wits end.

You push open the door, curious to what the commotion was about. You are greeted with a rather funny sight. Your son naked as the day he was born streaking across the room, his hair still a mess of tangles that bobbed with the motion of his trailblazing. He's giggling and crying with joy as he's being chased by an overwhelmed old toad that was holding a change of pyjamas for the excited toddler. Once he took notice of you, Kana stumbled on his feet to change direction to waddle towards you. He stumbled forward for a beat, catching himself with his hands before he face planted and got back up to trot to you at full speed. You crouch down to catch him. You pick him up and greet him with a kiss to his flush cheek.

"Maaahh!" He squeals at you.

"Hello, baby!" You verbally greet him.

Your happy greeting only elated him further. His tongue stuck out as he smiles brightly at you. It's a habit of his he does when he's in a good mood. It's been too long since he's stuck his tongue out at you. You shuffle in further to escape the cold. Jiraiya shut the door behind him after following you.

"I'm sorry, dears. I gave him a bath but he ran off after I got him out." Fukasaku sighs.

"No need to apologize. He is a budding escape artist." You say.

Kana may be little, but the boy had a talent for sneaking off. He was one of those flight risk babies that found anything to chase to make you panic as he escapes your sight often. He's only been a real mama's boy since he started to teethe. You bend down to take Kana's change of jammies from Fukasaku. You can get him changed. You jump a little when Jiraiya again seizes the opportunity to smack your ass. You stand and turn to give him a glare. He flashes you an innocent smile before dragging his hand along your rump as he walked by further into the home.

"Have they eaten?" He asks as he lazily peeled off his outerwear and dropped it on the floor in a pile beside the door. You roll your eyes in response. Why can't he behave like an adult in this house?

Fukasaku confirms and goes about a small rant. Apparently it was quite the ordeal. Kana is a messy boy. It's not his fault he didn't like to hold spoons. He likes the good old fashioned way of fist to mouth for his food. Most ended up on his shirt even if he did have a bib on. There is always a pile of crumbs and other fallout on the floor of the places he eats like it was raining food. No wonder he had to have a bath as Shima had prepared a soup.

"Mama, papa?" Hayami rounded the corner from the kitchen.

Her face lit up in joy at the sight of her parents back. She broke out into a run to squeeze you in a hug, then barrelled over to Jiraiya for the same type of bear hug. He crouched down to her level to catch her and exchange a few words.

"How's your hand, kiddo?"

"It's okay, papa. It don't hurt that much."

"That's my girl."

He grabbed her hand, careful to not put pressure on the injury. He gave it a quick kiss before kissing the top of her head. She simply beams a grin at him, happy and proud of herself. As she should be. She leans in after a moment and whispers.

"Do I tell mama?"

"Maybe later." He answers just as quietly. "For now it's our secret."

She nods with a seriousness that looked odd and amusing on a child. She's adorable. He ruffles her hair. It's still baby soft... and slightly damp. Must be from the snow. She was out in it for hours.

"How was your time in the snow?" Jiraiya asks her with that fascinated grin he always puts on when chatting with her.

"Sooooo much fun! Grandpapa showed me how to sled!" She threw her hands up in exclamation.

You watch and listen to their exchange, smiling as your child rambles on in excitement. Her first snow day was a success. You pass by them, headed for the bedroom. Kana has his head rested on your shoulder, a very clear sign that he was done for the night. It was time to get him back in diapers and covered up to keep the frost away. He was fairly cooperative as you dress him. Once so, he dragged himself to bed like he worked hard labour all day. His steps had a lumber to them that was similar to his papa's when exhausted. He rolled into his personal blanket fort and looked at you, expecting his usual goodnight ritual. That was pretty sassy for a baby. You raise your brow at him as you often do to Jiraiya when he gets snarky. He looks at you the same way. Brows furrowed with a tight pout, as if to say you are in the wrong for being offended. It was funny to see Hayami beside her father, but Kana is going to grow into a carbon copy of Jiraiya if this is telling of the future. Not that it would be a bad thing. It meant a future of good looks and sharp commentary from a bunch of sassy tow heads.

Sigh. Those problems are for later. For now it's time to celebrate the little things. It least Kana is in bed at a reasonable hour. Whatever secret Jiraiya had discovered to get him to stop crying was a god send. Although, your baby's hands are a little chilly for having had been in a bath. As you do every night, you kiss his forehead and hum a little tune that gets him snoring in seconds. You tuck him in extra tight to get him extra cozy before leaving him to it.

For the first time in many nights, it was quiet. Everyone has quieted down, as if Kana had rule over their voices. Perhaps they are afraid of rousing him. This is the first night he hadn't had rule over the roost. No one wants to raise their voice and ruin it.

Your husband and daughter had moved to the kitchen. Hayami was settled at the small dining table tucked into the corner of the kitchen. Jiraiya was sitting with her, eating quietly as she talked on about her snowy adventures while pointing to the pictures she had drawn to go along with her tale.

Shima was at a pot she was barely bigger than. She ladled a scoop of the tasty smelling contents into a bowl and offered it to you. You accept it with a smile. You take a seat beside your daughter, enclosing her between her parents. You blow gently on your hot food while listening in on her tall tale. She stopped for a moment to grin at you before continuing. It's great to have a quiet moment. To wind down after a busy day listening to your child talk excitedly about all the things she discovered. It's not long before she tired herself out. Her story now getting interrupted by yawns every few words or so. It makes sense. Using chakra is tiring, especially when followed up by hours of playing. But it's important for her to build that endurance while she's young.

"Why don't you get ready for bed?" You suggest to her. You comb her hair back from her face just how she likes to encourage her sleepiness. "It's going to be a long day tomorrow."

"What am I going to learn tomorrow, mama?"

"That is for you and papa discover together."

She nods and yawns again. After a goodnight kiss for both her parents, she walked off in a tired stumble to her own fort of blankets to cuddle up to in the spare bedroom she is sharing with her family. Something catches your eye for a moment, a flash of white bandages on her hand.

"Is she injured?" You ask, turning to Jiraiya for an answer.

"..." He looks at you with wide eyes, surprised that you noticed... or surprised that you caught him in a possible lie. "It's just a little cut. She fell down while training today."

"Why do I have the feeling that isn't the whole truth?"

"Cause it isn't." He admits to it. He leaned forward and gave you a kiss. "Don't worry about it. If it was something major, I would have told you."

"Fine." You agree.

It sucks knowing you didn't notice until now. But... he's right. It can't be anything life threatening if he didn't tell you. Poor girl. She shouldn't ever be injured like that. She is growing but... it's hard to see her with a weapon in her hand. Harder than expected. Her innocent face and attitude doesn't suit the ways a ninja is supposed to be. But she's so motivated and enthusiastic about learning that you can't refuse her. It's necessary for her future... but still...

"I swear it's just a little cut. Nothing to fret about. She's a tough kid." Jiraiya continued to comfort you. He holds you in a few more kisses before you left his side.

While knowing you aren't long for the waking world, you do what you can to clean up. You gather the dishes and clean them, ignoring Shima's insisting that you leave her to do it. It is the least you can do for her and her husband's hospitality. Jiraiya is tidying as well, gathering the stack of drawings Hayami had drawn into a single neat pile. He always collects them and saves them. There's no fridge for him to hang them on. So the next best thing is to keep them in his bag in a special pocket like they are the greatest of treasures. One he keeps out. One he hand selected with Hayami's permission to let her grandparents keep. One of her signature doodle originals. This one depicting the two sage toads caught in a hop straight up in the air with snowflakes in the air like they were catching them. In between them was a cute familiar little girl cheering along with them with her legs cut off by a lumpy line meant to depict the piled high snow. Once the two toads stopped bickering over the perfect spot and agreed, Jiraiya hung the drawing up for them by a pin in the wall.

With the final tasks done, it officially marked bedtime. The lights flicked out one at a time as you walked through the house. The sight of the cot in the spare room was the most beautiful sight in the world. At the same time, you and Jiraiya collapse onto it and sigh. Once he trapped you in that all too familiar position of being your big spoon, he was snoring in seconds. Despite you not carrying, he now always keeps his hand on your belly and only fully settles when you interlock your fingers between his. For a cold winter night, it was very warm with all your family around you.

In the morning, you and Jiraiya gathered up the scattered belongings the kids had. Both the toads took note of what this meant. They insisted that your family stays until spring, stating that Kana is too little to travel in the snow and Hayami is still training.

"Lucky for them they got me to handle that." Jiraiya answered their concerns with a confident grin. To emphasize his point he put Kana on his shoulders, who held onto the horns on his headband like they were reins while giggling with joy. The much higher perspective always put the little guy in a great mood. He hauled Hayami up by her arms, tossing her up until he had her by the ankle. She was laughing the whole time, not at all bothered from being carried like this. "I can carry them through the snow and teach em good!"

"Papa! Toss me in the snow!" Hayami insists with excitement. Like all children, she enjoyed being thrown around a little.

"Uh... maybe not." You cut in. You grab Hayami and set her on her feet. It was quite sunny and warm for a winter morning. With the sparkly snow looking more icy and hard. She didn't need to break her nose or scrape up her not injured hand on half refrozen snow. She pouts at you until you hand her backpack. It was child size and held her most precious belongings, like her stuffed animals and art supplies. "Perhaps papa can toss you into the sea when we get to it."

"We're going to the sea?!"

"Yes."

She gasps like this was the greatest news ever. Her love for the sea was greater than her love of the snow. She happily equipped her pack before running to give her grandparents hugs goodbye. She ran out the door, loudly demanding her family follow. She's ready for a new adventure. You follow her out and stop to wait for your husband. You turn to see he's crouched down, speaking quietly to his mentors while Kana played drums on his head. Those chubby little hands are stronger than they look, especially when playing a beat on a skull. He gently grabbed his child's hands to stop the headache before it began. The whole time his focus didn't really waver. Whatever he was saying looked to be a bit on a sappy side. The two elders both take a glance at you with a grin.

Before you could walk back over and listen in, Jiraiya stood back up. He ducked under the door with just enough clearance to not smoke Kana's head on the frame. He stops in front of you, tilting his head when you didn't move to fall in step beside him as you usually do. You place your arms around him and ask.

"What were you talking about?"

"Nothing spectacular, I assure you." He said with that 'I'm totally innocent' grin. He leans down to kiss you before stepping around you to escape your loose grip. "Come on! The sea awaits!"

"Yeah!" Hayami cheers from a few feet ahead.

As if to encourage the idea, Kana does that wonderful happy baby squeal while bopping his hands against the fluffy locks on his father's head. While it's cute seeing him excited, Jiraiya isn't fond of getting a beating from his child. To keep the kid soothed, he makes another snowball and gives it to Kana. The baby took it with glee and began to munch on it. This then created a small problem for Jiraiya as now both water and drool is dripping on his head. Aw well... it's worth it. It's better than having a fitful baby hitting him or pulling his hair.

You watch them with a tilt of the head. Your husband just fed your baby snow. Your baby seems to like it more than any other snack he's ever been given. How peculiar. But then again babies are quite strange. Jiraiya pauses after taking a few steps. He turns just enough to look back at you.

"You coming, babe?" He calls.

With a sigh you follow. Even after so many years, Jiraiya still finds a way to be mysterious around you. What on earth was he whispering about to his mentors? Sigh... something to bug him about later. You catch up to him and grab his hand. At seeing this, Hayami stopped running ahead to instead fall in stride to his other side and paw at his hand. He held it as he did to yours. She was a bit more energetic, climbing the stones and jumping over logs that were close enough to do so. She relied on his grip to balance her out a few times.

This was the norm while traveling. It a way it was refreshing to do it again. The break was good. So was the snow. But now it's time to discover new things. Each new adventure you take with your family, despite it being on familiar roads, was always different. Where shall this one take you now? It seems only time will tell.