Reader request continuation. Jiraiya and reader elope. She gets pregnant and unfortunately things fly south during her labour. It meant returning to Konoha during an odd time. A time where Hiruzen is trying to make amends after severing ties with Jiraiya and reader. And a time where a young blonde boy is making waves in the community with his antics.

Jiraiya's sole focus was on the miraculous little thing in his arms. He smiles as his rather small son wiggles. It's the first time he got to hold Hiro. It's nice being able to see him up close. He has all the Sarutobi traits. This kid is all you. Of what glimpses of are possible, Jiraiya did see that his son has black eyes. They don't open for more than a few seconds before shutting again. Despite being so young, Hiro has a lot of hair. It's short and softer than silk. It's the same colour as your hair. It's hard to believe he's here.

The newborn is premature after all, he's got a few health issues. Scary ones that threaten the little guy's rate of survival. He's too tiny and thin to keep himself warm so he's currently wrapped up in a few layers while out of the incubator. Apparently his intestines have some kind of problem. It's common among premies but it's no less scary. The saddest thing is seeing the baby version of breathing tubes stuck in the wee little boy's nose to assist with the simple task. The poor thing can't get enough oxygen by himself. Unfortunately it means the long emotionally gruelling process of Jiraiya's family stuck in the hospital for some time.

You aren't in good health either. How can you be? You gave birth two months early. In the middle of a field. With the only one assisting you being Jiraiya. It was a stressful process that was made even more stressful when anbu decided to drop in. He was practically feral at that point, ready to strike down any black ops that tried to interfere. Same team or not, he wasn't sure. You and him have been gone for so long it wouldn't be crazy to think Hiruzen named him a traitor. So many thoughts of what they would do spiked his stress higher than her thought it could ever go.

But it two things quickly became clear. They are there to help and he's not equipped to deal with assisting in childbirth. You said something that comforted him. When one of the anbu rested a hand on yours, you stared at them for some time before smiling and uttering a very soft greeting to your brother. With the assurance that he's in the company of those who only wish to help, he took a less direct role and comforted you. But higher cruel benevolent power decided to make this a horrific experience. One bad piece of information after another about this birthing process slowly lead to the very real reality that if the baby were to survive, you had to be cut open.

You, as tough and determined as you are, agreed. You steeled your heart and told your sibling to do it as slowly as they needed to ensure the baby doesn't get hurt. It was... awful. Jiraiya didn't really have a choice but to watch. He cradled your head to bury against his chest and he held you there to keep you from watching. You wails and howls of pain felt like ice was coursing through his body rather than blood. Your fingers bore wounds into his back but he didn't care. It was a sick gore show to witness as your flesh was cut open and layers peeled back to reveal a not so animated baby inside of you. The breached position and complicated placement of the cord around the child had taken a toll on the little guy. It took longer to actually... birth him. Blood was everywhere. You. The baby. The ground. Jiraiya.

Even now as Jiraiya holds Hiro there's old caked blood on his arms, torso, and thighs. He had to wash his hands in order to hold his child, the rest he didn't care about. He had to carry you. He wouldn't allow any anbu, in-laws or not, to lay another finger on you.

Surely his bloody arrival didn't go unnoticed. The quiet stop around Konoha was certainly ruined as his loudly announced himself and you by walking into town covered in blood, his arms shaking as he held you from the building anxiety at your condition. With anbu on either side of him, one of whom was holding his baby that was wrapped up tightly in his haori. The soft cries were too weak of that of a healthy baby. It's a sound that breaks the toughest of hearts. It makes for quite the spectacle.

Plenty of concerned eyes were on him. The public could think what they wished... it was Hiruzen he still wasn't sure he could face. Especially now. When you are in surgery where he had been told by a nurse assisting in the process that it doesn't look very good and his itty bitty son who is silently struggling with complications that come with being born early. He keeps glancing at the door, expecting the old man to come in at any moment to tell him how horrible he is.

"A homewrecker and a murder. What a fine man you turned out to be." He can picture Hiruzen saying to him in a cold cruel judgmental voice. Those once rather gentle and loving eyes now cold as they glare down at him. No sympathy to them now as all the blame falls to Jiraiya for your demise. It's not like it's wrong.

"If you had just left her to be with someone who deserves her, none of this would have happened."

Maybe that's true. Maybe there's something wrong with him. Maybe if he did leave you, you would have moved on to love a man who wouldn't get you pregnant with a child that is testing your will to live. Please live! How can he just get his life together with love and companionship just to have you die on him? It feels like Hiro will go with you. If one goes so will the other. He just... can't be alone anymore. Can he survive losing his family like this?...

A hand lands heavy on his shoulder. Without realizing it, Jiraiya had completely become lost in thought. He was staring at blurry shapes as his eyes no longer tried to focus on what was around him. He blinks several times. He looks up slowly. For once his perspective is of that of someone small. He's sitting in an old chair in the back of the infant intensive care unit holding his own little one in need of their care. It's like being surrounded by sorrow and worry as these small villagers are already fighting for their lives. He feels as small as they do staring up at his teacher.

There's no anger or cruel disgust in Hiruzen's face. Just concern. The old man is looking him over like he's the sickly child in need of care. It's been so long since he's felt so lost and he doesn't like it. A gentle nurturing smile is on his teacher's lips. In that same tone he asks a question.

"What's his name?"

"Hiroyuki... Hiro for short." Jiraiya answers in a soft voice. He hadn't spoken in so long that his voice feels weak. It's hard to talk loud in this place anyways. All the little ones trying to rest makes it difficult to want to speak louder than a whisper.

"Really? That's a very traditional name. I'm surprised you'd pick a name like that."

"I didn't..."

"I see."

His gaze drops back down to his baby. It is a very traditional name. Old fashioned. A strong name. Hopefully strong enough to inspire his child to strive through this. You liked it so much. You.. do like it. He hasn't lost you yet. Nor will he lose you. It was a prototype name for the main character of his book. When you read his rough draft, you fell in love with it. Once it had been determined that you and him were having a son, you've been referring to the baby by that name for months.

"Are you married?"

Jiraiya frowns. Why ask something like that? Perhaps he's too tired and emotionally exhausted, but it rubs him the wrong way. The tension between him and Hiruzen is still there. It has been since he decided to see you despite the disapproval. Asking questions like this make his throat squeeze as he swallows back a harsh sarcastic remark.

"Yes." His tone is still venomous. He can't resist being cold. "Don't worry, I didn't birth a bastard into your family."

"Jiraiya." Hiruzen said his name with a small sigh. "Can't I ask these things? I haven't seen or heard from you two for over two years."

"And whose fault is that?"

"Mine." The old man can admit it. The regret is there. "I didn't just push you away, but my own daughter. When you both left, I knew right away that I had made a mistake. I'm sorry for behaving so poorly."

"..." He exhales out some anger to relax. Hiro is so sensitive he might pick up on his father's anger. If it hindered Hiro's health, then Jiraiya can't forgive himself. But the little bean had hardly stirred in his arms. Just a quiet coo and a small shift of a doll sized leg.

"How did you get married?" Hiruzen kept the conversation going. He took a seat beside Jiraiya, smiling as he can peer over to look at the baby.

"At sea. After we left we went to the bay. It was... spontaneous."

"Ah hah. That sounds more like you. Then again my daughter was never boring."

"Is... she isn't boring..."

"Right."

It fell silent again. In all honesty Jiraiya didn't have much to say to his old teacher. Hiruzen had successfully severed an almost forty year old relationship. To stick it to him, both you and Jiraiya continued to see each other after being told to separate. For some time it was kept hush hush as to not cause further drama. Asuma and Kakashi helped out. They offered cover and well thought out stories to cover your back if Hiruzen ever asked. It was exciting. Sneaking around like star crossed lovers kept apart by family. There was a surreal feeling of danger being together.

Alas all good things must come to an end. Hiruzen ain't no fool. He found out eventually and was none too pleased. He called Jiraiya all forms of terrible things. Your attempts to defend him and the relationship led to an explosive argument. It was everything Jiraiya didn't want to happen with your family. You chose him. After taking you home for some drinks and cuddles, a rather strange conversation happened.

"I wish we could just run away." Jiraiya joked. It was just a joke. He chuckled at the idea. "Could you imagine the look on his face if we did that?"

"... Why don't we?" You asked. You looked at him with something he knows well. Determination and assurance. There's something else he hadn't seen that day yet. Beyond your tears from the sorrow the argument had caused you, you were smiling. "Yeah! We should run away!"

"Uhhhh... I was kidding, babe. I love you and all, but gramps will kill me if I stole you away."

"Wah! Come on, honey!" You were exasperated. You wrapped your arms around him and rested your forehead against his. "Run away with me. Show me all those wonderful places you talk about."

You wear him down so quickly. How can he refuse you? Traveling the world with the woman he loves sounded like a dream. A dream he can make a reality. He held your face and used his thumbs to wipe away the wetness on your cheeks. After a kiss, he gave you his reply.

"On one condition."

"Name it."

"Will you marry me?"

Just thinking about it now still makes him smile. The way you squealed and freaked out before almost choking him out in a bear hug still fills him up with joy. You repeatedly shouted yes with the same enthusiasm as if he were wreaking your shit. He did after you had calmed down a bit.

Hiroyuki began to fuss. His little face scrunching up as a soft wail comes from the boy. He's not very loud, he doesn't have the lungs to be loud. His face turns red and those soft cries grow in volume. Before Jiraiya could really react, a nurse swooped in and took him away. The amazing little distraction that kept Jiraiya sane was now being cared for by someone else. It feels wrong. Yes it's for Hiro's health but he didn't like being away from his child. The nurse was checking over very thoroughly to see what was causing the baby to act up.

Another nurse came in as well. One he knows is assisting the doctors in your surgery. She doesn't look grim. Or is he too hopeful? She stops in front of him. Then she smiles.

"The surgery went well. Your wife is in recovery."

The relief that flooded over him felt like a wash of cold water on a sweltering day. Jiraiya sighs out all that stress loudly. He doubles over with his elbows on his knees and hands in his hair as he pushes his hair back. His head swims a little with vertigo as the surge of relief was like a title wave washing over his body.

"Can I see her?" He asks.

"Not yet. We have to run some basic tests after she wakes up. Then we'll move her to a room you can visit her and she'll stay there until she's recovered."

It's torture. He's so close to seeing you but he... can't. Fighting with the staff will do no good. He has to respect what they have ruled. Yet he still wants to bang his head on the wall out of frustration. It's that odd slow process of being in hospital that can't be rushed. He hates waiting.

Then the paediatric nurse that had taken Hiroyuki did a small cheer. She praised the baby like he'd done a great feat.

"Good job, little man! Good job!" She coos at him. She looks over her shoulder to inform everyone of the good news. "He feeds well! He'll be a big and strong in no time."

That is good news. It's amazing! She turns back around to continue to praise and feed Hiroyuki. Since you are unavailable, Hiro will be fed by formula for now.

Again a hand rests on his shoulder. Jiraiya glances over to Hiruzen. The old man is smiling at him in congratulations. The hard feelings are still there... but it was nice to have some emotional support during this incredibly difficult situation. He doesn't really say anything. He doesn't really have anything to say.

Oh god... Jiraiya pauses with a terrible thought. He is ill prepared for caring for a baby. He thought he had two more months! No clothes! No diapers! No blankets, bibs, cloths! Nothing to raise a baby. Especially a little baby that needs layers and warmth.

"I... I need to get things. For Hiro." He announces.

"You should rest first." Hiruzen disagrees with a different suggestion. "You've been here for hours."

"No. I have nothing for him. Not even a onesie."

"He's not going anywhere for a while, my boy. The hospital will provide him with clothing while he's here."

"I can't just... do nothing." He admits.

"You can't be a good father or husband if you run yourself into the ground."

The man has a point. Jiraiya takes a moment to sigh. He's dirty. With your blood and soil from the forest. He's tired. He hasn't calmed down since he came into this hospital. The hours of waiting and fearing had taken a toll. Although holding his child did charge him up. So did the good news. He feels as if he could handle a hard mission from the surge of energy he got from hearing his family is okay. Yet at the same time he could face plant right there and simply lay there to rest for the time it takes until he could see you again. A jingle of keys gains his attention. Hiruzen is offering him house keys.

"My home is always open to you. Take a shower. Take a nap." Hiruzen advices. "If you wish, I can watch over them while you're away."

"... Okay." Jiraiya reluctantly agrees. As much as he didn't want to admit, he is worn out. He takes the keys.

He wanders over to the old corner neighbourhood where Hiruzen lives. As he was invited, he does help himself. He took the time to wash the blood out of his clothing, he hangs them up to dry before jumping into the shower. The imagery is always a little poetic. Even if he's not sure what the poem is. The thin watered down streams of blood that left his skin and washed down the drain was... renewal? The pain of the stressful morning shouldn't linger anymore. You are safe. His baby is safe. The stress of it all should wash down the drain as well.

After getting clean, Jiraiya leaves the bathroom in just his underwear and a towel wrapped around his shoulders. He crashed on the couch. He didn't mean to. But as soon as he sprawled out he passed out...

Next he awakes it's because someone is prodding him. A finger poking into his arm with a slight it of hesitation, as if somewhat afraid of waking him. He opens his still heavy eyes to see Asuma there standing over him.

"Are you okay?"

"Yeah, why?" He mumbled.

"Well being half naked on the couch in my childhood home is not exactly how I expected to find you."

"My clothes were bloody."

"I see."

Jiraiya heaves himself up and groans. Somehow he has a headache. He is still tired. He focuses back on the younger man.

"Why are you here?" Then he gasps as a thought comes to mind. "Did something happen? My son? My wife?" He stands quickly as he worries he slept through a tragedy.

"Calm down, they're okay. The old man asked me to come get you."

"What for?"

"He didn't say. He just wants you to go to the marketplace where he's waiting for you."

Jiraiya sighs as he relaxes. He thanks Asuma as he trudged to the room he hung out his clothes. Asuma follows to give one tidbit of information before leaving him be. He listens with a smile as his brother-in-law updates him on how his family is doing. It's all good things. You are awake but in pain. You can't move all that well since you aren't supposed to put any stress on your middle at all as it heals. Hiroyuki for convenience sake and given the unique situation has been moved into your room with all his needed equipment so you can bond with him. Apparently you cried when you held him for the first time. That feeling must have been overwhelmingly amazing. You didn't get the opportunity to earlier when you were unceremoniously sliced open. Hiruzen hadn't visited you yet. Which was peculiar. That man loves you to bits.

Once dressed and presentable, Asuma kept him company going back into the commercial part of town. Once so, Asuma left as his team of genin were waiting for him. It ain't so hard to spot the Hokage among their people. A few citizens and ninja alike were gathered around him speaking of various things. All of which Hiruzen listened until Jiraiya made himself known among the crowd. Despite being a real fool sometimes, Hiruzen was a good leader.

"You're still worried about the lack of baby things you have, correct?" Hiruzen asks.

"Yeah, what of it?"

"Come, I know the best place for all of that."

Without a second of hesitation, the old man turned and strutted down the street. Jiraiya raises a brow and does follow. Is the geezer really taking him shopping? It's sweet, it's just a little odd. Then again he was so tired that perhaps he sounded more insistent about the baby things than he meant. He still needs it all. He'd rather his child have their own clothes rather than the ones the hospital has. If just to provide something. Anything to contribute to Hiro's health. He feels so powerless to do anything else.

It was therapeutic. Shopping for baby things relit the joy of having a baby. Walking into that store and seeing all the things one can get for their child had melted away the stress and the glamour of it all set back in. Jiraiya had actually surprised himself in his enthusiasm about doing all of this. He couldn't stop grinning widely at all the cute little pyjamas and outfits. The socks! The socks were so small it blew his mind. It was crazy that something that can barely fit his finger would fit a person so small. Hiruzen had to rein him in a little from overbuying. Hiroyuki will grow faster than he can comprehend. While all the premie stuff was adorable, the wee lad will grow out of them quickly. It was better to get only a few things for now and focus on some of the bigger things. A couple of onesies, a couple of blankets. The softest cloths imaginable that are meant for the fragile skin of a baby. Beanies and those cute little socks. Things to get Hiro started up once he's healthier. Quite surprisingly, Hiruzen offered to get something for the baby as well. He has proved he's a good grandfather before so it will be something nice. With little hesitation, Jiraiya agreed. Whether or not this gift will be accepted was totally up to you. It was a stuffed animal. A plush monkey toy with a rattle feature to it. Rather fitting for a new child to the Sarutobi clan.

Now with plenty of bags in hand, Jiraiya and Hiruzen make their way back to the hospital. They got your room number and eagerly go to it. Jiraiya was now feeling a mix of anxiety and excitement. Anxious to see the condition you are in but excited to see you nonetheless. He went in first. Relief washed over him as you aren't as bad as he expected. Bed bound and sore. You are hooked up only to an IV and all cozied up as well as you can be in hospital. It wasn't so different from Hiroyuki, who is also on machines and stuck in this grim place. At the moment you are holding Hiroyuki. The wee little guy somehow looks smaller in your arms. All your attention is on your baby. You're rocking him ever so slightly as you bottle feed him. It's a sight that could melt anyone's heart.

It's only when he was hovering above you leaned down to peer at the baby did you take notice of your husband. You greet him softly and he gave you a kiss. He then gently stroked Hiro's soft little cheek before placing a feather soft kiss on the little guy's head.

"How's he doing?" He whisper asks.

"Just fine. He's so wonderful." You reply.

"Yeah. He is." Jiraiya pauses and casts his eyes back to you. He gave your cheek a kiss. You're wonderful too. The strongest woman he knows. "We got him things."

"We?"

You look up from your baby to him. Then your eyes cast beyond his shoulder towards the door. Recognition and surprise takes your expression. As well as a hint of hurt.

"Papa." You say quietly.

"Hello my dear." Hiruzen greets you as warmly and as fatherly as he had to Jiraiya hours ago. He enters the room but still kept a bit of distance, not wishing to crowd you. "How are you?"

"I'm okay... as okay as I can be."

Jiraiya scoots away. He felt in the middle of this. He tiptoes to the other side of the bed so he can still be nestled close to his wife and baby. You and your father spoke quietly. It was civil. It was actually good. He apologized. You forgave him. Fairly soon you were in tears. Your blubbering turned into full blown sobbing as your out of balanced hormones took over. It is a lot. Hospitalized with your sickly little baby. Hurting and surrounded by people who love you. You cried at the sight of the little plush monkey you were given for Hiroyuki to cuddle. Needless to say you got lots of hugs. Gentle ones as to not disturb the little babe cradled in your arms. You let your father have a turn with Hiro. Hiruzen was always good with babies. He handled your little one with extreme care.

"He's truly remarkable." Hiruzen said with a fond smile. "Calm like his mother. Strong like his father."

The old man gives a final cuddle to Hiro before handing him back to you. Hiruzen then gave your head a kiss, telling you quietly how proud he was of you. You smile at your father. There's a lingering exhaustion under your expression. It only grows as Hiruzen said his goodbyes, he has a village to run after all. He paused to gave Jiraiya a nod that conveyed enough of a fond farewell. Jiraiya returned it before focusing on you.

"Here, love." Jiraiya stepped in with his arms out to scoop up his kiddo. "You should rest. When was the last time you got pain killers?"

"I'm fine, Jiraiya." You insist as you slightly adjust your position on the bed. "I don't ever want to stop holding him."

"And your pain?"

"Manageable."

Sigh. You're only saying that because the meds you are on make you weak. You'd have no choice but to put Hiroyuki back in his incubator if you took them. Jiraiya pulls the chair in the room up to the bed and sits. He rests his elbows on the mattress and props his head in his hands. He's still tired. That nap didn't do much. He wanted to be close to you, but due to your condition he didn't want to touch you. Now that he is he can relax. Like totally relax. The soft coos from his extra small son was strangely calming. Even more so as you hum and talk softly to Hiro...

Your hand touches his hair, petting him. He groans as you lovingly whisper for him to sleep. He resists at first. It didn't last long.

"Are you sure you don't mind him like that?"

His ears burn and perk up at the sound of a familiar voice. He must have dozed off. That slow haze of fuzzy sounds was clearing as he wakes up.

"Of course I don't." You answer. Your hand returns to pet Jiraiya's head. "I don't mind having my husband close. He's been so worried about us that he hasn't been sleeping."

"Who told you that?" Jiraiya asks as he sits up.

His back crackles like a bag of chips getting stepped on. He cringes as he shifts and stretches to readjust. Sleeping at this angle is not pleasant. His cheek somehow hurts from sleeping on the little section of mattress. Is it made out of rocks and foam? How are you so comfortable on that?

Of course all his soreness fades when he looks at you. You look better. Healthier. In your arms is the greatest thing he's ever made. Hiroyuki is sleeping, looking content and peaceful in your embrace. You chuckle and gently use your thumb to wipe something off of Jiraiya's chin. Was he really at the point of drooling? Or are you teasing him again?

"You only snore when you're exhausted. It sounded like Paku when he's got a cold was in my bed."

"Hey!" His sentiments was echoed by that oh so familiar voice.

He turns to see Kakashi lounging by the window. The iconic masked man had his book lazily laid flat in his limp wrist as he looks at you in offence on behalf of his dog. He was bound to show up at some point. As close friends, Kakashi wouldn't go a day without seeing you. You've been away for so long. It must have been hard on the young man. You kept in contact when you could. Must be nice... to have plenty of family and friends awaiting your message. Then again, these people like Jiraiya too.

"I got you guys something. More specifically I got Hiro something." Kakashi left his perch to approach the bed. From a back pouch he pulls out and presents a folded piece of cloth. When unfolded it looks to be about the right size to swaddle a baby. Rather adorably it matches the bedding that Kakashi owns. "I heard that he needs lots of layers. But it seems you already took care of that, my lord."

Jiraiya casts a glance to the bags of baby stuff he bought earlier. Maybe he did go a little ham. But his little one needs things to grow into. Hiroyuki is dressed in one of the onesies he bought. It is probably the most adorable thing he's ever seen. Totally worth the splurge. That little cutie looks pretty darn cute in a onesie that has cartoon frog faces printed on it. Hey, it's his kid and this is the first time he's seen clothes with frogs on them. It just seemed appropriate.

"We can never have enough." He says. He takes the blanket and unfolds it. "Thanks. I got a feeling this'll be mama's favourite."

You tut your tongue at him before taking the blanket. With gentle hands you tuck Hiro in with the newest addition of the ever growing blankie pile. The smile on your face as you attentively take care of your baby is wonderful. Too wonderful to interrupt for any reason. Is it possible to fall in love with you all over again? Just watching you interact with Hiroyuki fills Jiraiya with a type of feeling he felt when he realized how he felt about you. It's all warm and fluttering in his chest like he's seeing you for the first time.

"I think he likes it." You say softly.

"I think so too."

At the same time, you and Jiraiya hook a finger around the edge of the blanket to pull it down to reveal more of Hiroyuki's face. Not that it's hard to find. If anything the little tubes will always lead the way to that adorable face. The babe hadn't stirred a little bit. He's awfully chill for a baby. A blessing considering the circumstances. He hasn't cried much unless it's for food. His favourite hobby so far has been sleeping. Which is good. He should while he can.

Wham!

Everyone turns their head towards the door as it slams open. The culprit for disturbing the peace was a child. One that is most certainly not in training for medical. The blond boy was messy and the energy he gave off was too chaotic for hospital work. Plus busting into a room unannounced is not how bedside manners work.

"Kakashi-sensei!" The boy shouted in annoyance. "Stop being lazy and train me for god's sake! I gotta win the exams!"

Well that did it. At the sudden loud intruder, Hiro began to cry. The peace is officially broken. You immediately went to comfort the poor little guy, hushing and rocking him in an attempt to quiet down the wails. They're pretty loud considering he's got weak lungs. It invoked anger in Jiraiya. Hearing his baby cry made him mad. When he stands it catches the attention of the little punk who had caused the chaos. The boy blinked a few times as he took in the rather large angry man looming over the bed of a tired woman hushing a newborn to glare right at him. Then his gaze went over to you and quite obviously staring at Hiro. It is a sad sight to anyone who hadn't seen it before. It only annoyed Jiraiya more.

Kakashi could very clearly sense that Jiraiya was out of patience and quickly grabbed the boy by the back of the collar and escorted him out. Better to have an annoyed child than a dead one.

"Calm down." You said. You pull on his sleeve to gain his full attention. "We're both fine, don't get so worked up."

"I'm not worked up."

"You are at least ten shades of red right now."

Jiraiya pouts and crossed his arms. At least he's got the paternal instinct. Or is he already too much of a mama bear? Hearing the louder upset cries of his newborn skyrocketed his temper. Just as quickly as the crying started they calmed. Hiroyuki is quieting down again. Those few minutes of crying tuckered the little guy out. It tuckered you out too. You are still recovering from surgery after all. You haven't rested since you got ahold of your child.

With some coaxing, Jiraiya takes Hiro from you and sets him back in the pod. With more coaxing, he gets you to settle down. As much as he felt like he shouldn't, he left to let his family catch up on some much needed sleep. He can find something to do for a few hours, right? Maybe pester Asuma or Kakashi for a while. Yeah they got students now but surely they can be sent off to do some kind of "training exercise" so they can humour their sleep deprived friend. He just needs a distraction. Sitting in the hospital overthinking about the health of his family will do no good, even if they are fine.

Once outside, Jiraiya was faced again with the blond boy that had made his baby cry. He got an apology at least. His ire for the shit disturber calmed. Alas it was quickly relit with a vengeance with the child's next question.

"What's wrong with him?"

"There's nothing wrong with my son! He's just... got some growing up to do."

Jiraiya pushed past the child, but the kid kept following him asking questions. Despite his best efforts, Naruto as he learned the kid's name was, wouldn't stop pestering him. An afternoon of being with friends was quickly fleeting.

Maybe it won't be so bad. Something to do while you and Hiroyuki are in hospital. Jiraiya is well aware he'd lose his mind from worrying and not being able to do a damn thing about it. You supported him when he told you he's got a student for a month or so. You supported him further, forcing yourself to stand so you could hold him in a hug when he told you who that child was. You know as well as everyone who Naruto's parents were and the heavy weight it holds over your husband.

For a few days, Jiraiya spent his time on a schedule. From late morning to late afternoon he trained Naruto. At the same time everyday he cut off the training and went to visit you for the last two hours for visitation. He held his son and helped with a couple of the baby tasks. Somehow he found a way to lay in the hospital bed with you, which was nice and close. As stoic as you can be about pain, every shift you made caused a wince. But no matter how much he told you that you don't have to move, you still did so in order to cuddle up to him in your favourite ways.

You were released after those few days. With strict orders from your doctor to take it easy as your body heals. It was hard to tear you away from Hiro. Jiraiya had to keep pulling you away from the incubator. No parent should leave their baby. It's clear you are having a hard time accepting that you have to be away from your baby. While Hiro is doing okay health wise, the hospital didn't want to release him until his lungs were stronger and the problem with his innards was cleared up. You kept the monkey plush your father got for Hiro, clutching onto it tightly as you reluctantly left the hospital.

"We'll visit him everyday, okay?" Jiraiya assures you.

"Promise?" You ask quietly, looking up at him with large watery eyes.

"I promise."

"You really promise?"

"Really really."

"Promise to the moon and back?"

"And even further. Come on, he'll be fine."

You sighed and followed him. Surprise took your sorrow when he took you back to your childhood home. Hiruzen was nice enough to let you and Jiraiya occupy your old room, which was converted into a guest room when you moved out many years ago. The day before you were released, both Jiraiya and Hiruzen worked together to make part of the room set up for Hiroyuki. The old man had lots of the more permanent baby things around from when Konohamaru was a baby. Like a crib and mobile. It certainly explains why gramps is so good with children. He took care of Konohamaru a lot when the lad's parents were on long missions. You were quite pleased to see the set up. The bed is big enough for two and the crib for one. It was much more comforting to have Hiro close. Once he's home, that precious little guy won't ever leave his parents sight.

So the schedule changed. For three weeks, Jiraiya trained Naruto to prepare for the final round of the exams. It wasn't so bad. Most of the time he spent it thinking about you. The biggest perk of this whole relationship is that Konohamaru will talk to him again. The youngster really didn't like him after you left suddenly with the strange man you like so much. Little did he know that Konohamaru idolized Naruto, and Naruto had grown to be fond of Jiraiya. Which in turn made him cool in that kid's mind. Maybe he could still form some kind of relationship with your nephew. Time will tell.

He still kept the late morning to late afternoon pace and went to the hospital right after. You were usually there before him. Never more than an hour as you didn't want to make him feel like you are hogging all the baby time. After spending quality time as a family, he had to regretfully take you away as the hospital closed down its visiting hours. The evenings are spent with your father in a peaceful way. Dinner, tea, and relaxing together. The topics of conversation were never heavy. Hiruzen mostly wanted to hear about the two years he missed of his daughter and now son-in-law. Which was mostly having sex in exotic locations. To spare your old man a heart attack, Jiraiya omitted that part of the story.

He does miss that. Not that sex defined the joy of this relationship, but he just... missed it. He missed you. Your pregnancy was pretty rough with spells of sickness and wacky contractions, so there was very limited windows to have a good time. Of course now you have a large slice in your middle and you're on a level that's just above bed rest.

Despite all that, you must have felt that too. After wrapping up another quiet night, you distracted him from helping you dress in pyjamas with kisses. It's hard to resist. Finally being around you was stress free. You aren't constantly uncomfortable from carrying his baby. You aren't bloody and cold. You are healing. He could hold you without leaving a huge space as he no longer feared putting pressure on your centre. It's still a sensitive wound, but you endured the bit of pain so you could at least comfortably get in all those kisses you missed out on for so many months.

"Wanna help me shower?" You ask in a tone that sent tingles down his spine.

"I'd love to."

Jiraiya just barely got you escorted to the bathroom door before Hiruzen just happened to catch you and him being all... mushy. He didn't really know what to do. He was caught red handed staring your father in the face with his hands on your ass. The last time something like this happened Hiruzen told him how unworthy he was for you.

Hiruzen's gaze remained calm. He looked at you, your face red and expression embarrassed. Then to his former student, who is mirroring your expression. He chuckled after a moment of complete silence.

"May I ask that you two behave yourself in my home? I am still your father. I don't want to hear or see you in any other way other than being my little girl." He said with a pat to your head.

"Sorry, papa." You murmured.

Jiraiya did ruefully retract. He merely helped you double check your wound dressings after you got out of the shower. Then he got you dressed before going to bed. Unfortunate, but whatever. Maybe when Hiroyuki is stronger for travel and the option to be in a home that is Hokage free comes about he can get in some quality down time with you.

That possibility came about sooner than expected. Two days before the last phase of the exams are about to start, great news came at a peculiar time. Jiraiya was more or less trying to figure out how to tell Gamabunta that an overexcited thirteen year old managed summon him. They were currently holding a bet to see who is more stubborn. Then you showed up, interrupting the whole thing.

It was startling to see you run and shouting his name. Jiraiya left his hiding spot to meet you part way, he ran faster as to stop you from hurting yourself. You nearly collapsed in his embrace. Sweat was beaded on your brow from the effort it took you run and your limbs are shaky. Yet none of that seemed to hinder your excitement or energy.

"I got the all clear! Hiro can be released!" You cheer.

"Really? That's great!" All his worry faded as he understood why you are so thrilled.

"Yes! Yes it is!" You beam. You began to pull on his arms as if you had the strength to pull him back into the village. "Come on! I didn't want you to miss it!"

"Miss what?"

"Our child getting all his monitoring removed! Taking him out of the hospital! The fun stuff!"

He stopped resisting and jogged with you. It was the best compromise since you were clearly hindered by your injury. You are far from your top speed but you were too excited to slow down. He couldn't stop you if he wanted to. The news was so absorbing that he took no notice to his student and summon stopping to watch the interaction. Then they set their bet aside for a moment to speak about the situation.

"What do you mean that boy had a baby?!"

Jiraiya casted a glance over his shoulder. Gamabunta is staring daggers into his back. Great. Another problem to deal with. The toads can get fairly offended if their master doesn't update them on major aspects of his life. Did he even tell them he got married? Shit... he's in for one hell of a talking to.

The trip to the hospital felt both short and long. Short from the excitement, yet long from the impatience that excitement caused. You weren't in the best shape by the end of the journey either. The stress you put on your wound wasn't good for it. Yet you push on with the excitement you have to finally bring your baby home. He's excited too. Actually it was more surreal than anything. His son had gotten better so quickly. The odds didn't seem so favourable a month ago.

You happily held Hiroyuki, hushing and cooing at him as the tube got pulled out of his nose. The poor little guy wasn't a big fan of it. Yet there's a comfort to be found in those cries now. They're louder and stronger. It sounds like how all healthy newborns should sound. With a promise to come back if anything should change in his health, Hiro was officially released.

"We should show him all of the best places in the village." You said.

At this point you were completely oblivious to the crowd around you. Jiraiya placed his hand on your back to help guide you. Your eyes are glued on the baby in your arms. Hiro is mesmerizing to look at. Those dark eyes of his are open much more often now. They can't do much other than to look at you with confusion but with a knowing. Like he knows you but can't quite put together why.

"I think it would be best if we show him his new bed first." Jiraiya replied.

You nod. You're tired after running around with a gut wound. You lean against him and walk with him back to your old home. He took Hiro from you so you could rest. He can handle his baby for a while. Just as he takes a load off on the couch, there's a knock on the door. With a loud sigh he gets back up to check.

There was no person there, but a gift basket on the step. Looking around, Jiraiya just managed to catch a glimpse of a dark cloak whooshing behind a tree. Your big brother if he had to guess. Most likely your sister-in-law too. The basket had an assortment of things. Mostly things for you. A few were a tad tone deaf and it came off more funny than endearing. Like a roll of bandages and wound wash that was nestled casually beside a package of your favourite snack. Odd but the heart is in the right place. A care package for mommy. That's nice of them. It was the closest to an encounter and apology he'll ever get from them.

"Thank you!" He wished the air, but he knew your family was close enough to hear.

He took it back inside and plunked back down on the couch. When Hiruzen came home, he was ecstatic to see Hiro. Babies bring out the best in people. Jiraiya spent most of the evening being the mediator for the baby passing. You woke up after a few hours and you were incredibly sore. To keep you in bed, your loving husband brought you Hiroyuki whenever the little one began to hungry cry. Then Hiruzen wanted a turn, so he had to scoop up Hiro and escort him to grandpa. It was nice. It's nice being apart of a family again...

Funny how all these moments come back, isn't it? At least the last memories Jiraiya has of his teacher is all good. Memories he can always keep alive. Memories of what it's like to have a father. Memories he can share with his son when he's older.

You have been inconsolable since Hiruzen died. The raid on Konoha that Orochimaru so perfectly executed had taken few lives. That is very fortunate. The protocols in place were effective. You and Hiroyuki are safe because of them. But the lives it did take were impactful.

It was as if life threw him a bone apart of a monkey's paw. Over two years of hurt was healed and forgiven just in time. Your early labour was a blessing in disguise. You got to see your father and spend lots of down time with him making good memories. Hiro got to meet his grandfather. Jiraiya had a chance to... learn... experience. The last time he felt so happy in a family home is when he was with Minato and Kushina. He got to experience that, but in the other role. The excited new father just... enjoying the pride on his teacher's face. Hiruzen was proud of him. For finding a reason to not live life, but thrive.

He looks up at the sky. The grey clouds are breaking up. Light is poking through them. It has stopped raining. To not disturb the peace, you and Jiraiya chose to stay to the very back, almost to the edge. Hiruzen's funeral was quiet. No one had many words to say. The pile of flowers gathered on top of the casket said enough of the love his people had for him.

Your sobbing hadn't stopped since you heard the news. Thankfully you weren't there to see the body. By the time citizens, children, and ninja on maternity leave like you were released back to the streets Hiruzen was already covered and taken away by his most trusted hands. Being cooped up with the villagers had made you impatient and worried. You had to check on your family and friends who had fought to keep the invasion at bay. By the time you made it to the colosseum, you were a mess. Your relief was quickly replaced with despair as you took notice of all the blood on the roof where your father fought to his final breath. The whole time you had Hiro with you, who was blissfully unaware of the sorrow around him. He's still unaware, he's sleeping with you holding him against your chest and one of his many blankets draped over you to keep him shielded from the rain. In some ways it's hard not to be jealous of that blissful unawareness.

Jiraiya shut the umbrella and shook the water off of it before clipping it. As much as mourning is cause for dramatically standing in the rain, Hiroyuki's health as well as yours comes first. The last thing his fragile son needs is to get cold from the rain water and catch a bug that could undo that month of healing. You don't need to be sick either. You're still recovering from your rough childbirth.

People were beginning to leave. Kakashi stopped in front of you, offering you words of comfort. No one in this world knew what it was like to lose a father in a tragic way more than him. Asuma stopped to give you a hug. He fondly pet Hiro on the head before continuing on to the cemetery to watch yours and his father get laid to rest. That's usually reserved for family.

"Did you want to go?" Jiraiya asks.

"Yeah... I think I do." You answer.

"Okay."

He put his arm around you and held you close. Together you and him made way to the cemetery. But like with everything they do, those crotchety elders had to stop him at an awkward time. You stopped too, but by the expressions on those old sour faces they didn't want you around.

"I'll catch up. I won't be long." He promises you.

You keep going, casting a final glance to him. Thankfully, Kakashi had hung back and he ushered you along.

"One guess on what you two want." Jiraiya spoke first, cocking his brow at the elders.

"Don't be coy with us." Koharu snaps.

"This was a long time coming." Homura added in the same terce tone. "You are the only one suitable to replace Hiruzen."

Oh please. There's plenty of others more suitable than him. The only thing that makes him slightly better in odds is that he's a student of the previous Hokage and he's old. Well not old old... but still. He's got wisdom... supposedly. Not enough wisdom to lead a military.

"No." He said swiftly. "I'm not the guy you want."

"You can't deny what you are meant to do."

"I'm not meant to do anything!"

He's too tired for this. Between the pain of losing someone important, a baby that gets fussy every two hours every night and a wife that's been inconsolable for two days, he hasn't gotten much sleep. He doesn't need this right now. With a stern scowl, he turns to return on his journey to the cemetery.

"Think of your family." Koharu prods again. "It will be challenging to raise a sickly child with the lifestyle you have now."

He freezes. A mix of anger and anxiety began to course through him. Sickly? Hiro is not sickly! Hiro is strong. In another month he'll be chubby enough to not need extra layers. But... what if something did go wrong? It seems that even a breeze could break that little guy sometimes. SIDS is still a possibility and that is absolutely terrifying.

"And your wife." Homura adds. "Both her and your son can live in comfort. With the best accommodations available."

Are they bribing him? Or is it good old fashioned manipulation mixed with guilt tripping? The implications are clear. He's putting his family at risk if he refuses. If he accepts it means he's sacrificing his selfish need to be free for you and that wonderful little baby. But is it selfish? You loved the past two years. Being free with you was living the dream. Before Hiruzen died you talked about how much you looked forward to showing Hiro all the places Jiraiya took you.

"I... I don't know." He admits.

He doesn't turn to see their reaction, but he could practically feel them exchange victorious smiles. The elders have finally wore him down into being indecisive. Both options have positives and negatives. He rubs his eyes, pinching his brows together to release some of the stress that had speared into his forehead. This isn't something he can decide on his own.

"I need to talk to my wife about this." He announces before continuing on his way.

They don't protest or follow. Thank goodness. The last thing he needs is two looming nosy elders staring at him from the gates of the cemetery like a couple of local cryptids. They never come over here. Maybe hallowed ground burns them. You are easy to pick out of the small crowd. You are swaying from side to side like you are lost in a song. That's just how Hiroyuki likes to be rocked.

"Is something wrong?" You ask.

"No."

"Babe, come on. What happened?"

He put his arm around you and pulled you close.

"We'll talk about it later. For now," Jiraiya paused and motioned to the grave. "Let's spend some time with him."

"Alright."

You rest your head against his shoulder. He rubs your back in a gesture of comfort. There's a hole that you made by pulling the hem of the blanket back. From there he could see his baby contently resting. Placing his free hand on Hiroyuki's back he could feel the warmth the baby is holding onto. He can feel the rise and fall of each calm breath from both mother and child. It put away all his worries. His family fine.

As for their future? Well damn. That's uncertain. All Jiraiya does know is that he'd do anything to keep them safe. The path before him branches. He's standing at a crossroads and for the first time he doesn't know what what he should go.

Tonight. It'll all be figured out tonight. Now it's time to mourn... and appreciate what he has.