Disclaimer: I do not own Naruto.
Extras: Part Two
Jiraiya's Legacy
Jiraiya sighed and rubbed a taunt muscle on the back of his neck. Same old village. From the happy chatter in the streets to the buildings painted different colors all scrunched together. Seeing the familiar sights made Jiraiya's bones ache with longing as nostalgia flooded his memories. The bell test. Ditching class from the academy. Raising his genin.
He started moving, noting every unfamiliar face as he headed for the bathhouse. Had he really been gone that long? As Jiraiya walked, his thoughts wandered as his feet itched to take him far from home. Konoha was a conflicting place for him. It was home. A place he loved like no other. But there was loss here; Mother, Orochimaru's betrayal, Tsunade's little brother, Minato and Kushina…
Passing a group of merchants talking up the chunin exams, Jiraiya noticed the moment the air became thick and moist with sulfur. The dirt ground under his feet turned to stone. He'd reach his destination soon. Then there were the things resigning in the village that Jiraiya wasn't allowed to have; Naruto and… his kid. How old would the girl be now? Jiraiya never permitted himself to do the math. Wanting her to be frozen in time and the possibility of her untouched by the world.
Shaking his head Jiraiya turned his eyes to the sight of the approaching bathhouse. I'm starting to sound like the old man, he told himself; paying no attention to the men's side of the bath. There wasn't time to be thinking about what could have been or things he could have done. In Hiruzen-Sensei's last correspondence, he said Naruto's seal needed to be looked at and that Orochimaru was lurking underfoot. Those were the only two reasons Jiraiya had returned home. Well, that and the Akatsuki were on the move. Jiraiya couldn't dishonor Minato by ignoring his son completely. Maybe the boy was finally old enough. Maybe this would be the year Jiraiya could begin his training. Naruto appeared to have grown quite a bit when he fixed the seal. It could be time… Jiraiya knew better than to get his hopes up.
Stopping by the fence separating the women's bath and the street, Jiraiya stared at the face of a distracted little genin. He didn't recognize her. Of course, he wouldn't. He knew nothing of this newest generation. What Jiraiya meant was that he couldn't guess her lineage. She didn't have the bone structure of a Nara. Or the markings of an Inuzuka. Jiraiya couldn't spot any features from any of the clans. If it wasn't for the headband uniformly worn on her forehead and the holster strapped to her leg, Jiraiya would have taken her as a bored little girl waiting for an older relative to be finished with their bath.
Though nothing was boring about this genin. The intensity in her eyes, as she stared at nothing in particular, was making Jiraiya uncomfortable. While it paired nicely with her scowling expression, the intensity didn't match the youthfulness of her skin or singular braid. A D-rank mission? Jiraiya questioned. Hiruzen was already on to him, it would seem. Unsurprisingly. But what did this little thing do to earn guarding the bathhouse from the likes of him as a punishment?
In the end, Jiraiya shrugged and squatted down to take a peak through the fence. It didn't matter. Jiraiya would take this moment to soothe himself. And if he had to mess with a genin in the process, so be it. Maybe it would even be good for the brat. And probably something the old man intended.
Except, the girl didn't seem to notice his presence. Even when Jiraiya was so close. It was too easy! What were they teaching genin these days? Clearly, standards were falling… Jiraiya changed his mind when he realized he couldn't find a hole to peek through. The girl blocked the only one.
"Hey. Hey Miss?" Jiraiya tried. Already becoming flushed as he thought about the beauties waiting on the other side.
Still, the girl didn't react; staring fixedly at the ground as if she found it personally offensive. Inching closer, Jiraiya tried again. "Excuse me, young miss?" He breathed into her ear; trying not to snicker as the small fry snapped her head in his direction. Raised flesh was visible on her arms. Jiraiya allowed a goofy smile to take over his face; selling his act as he got a good look at the girl's eyes; sharp brown pupils that seemed to take in everything at once. "Do you mind moving aside?" Jiraiya asked; hiding his amusement as the girl twitched at his lecherous tone. "There's some very important research I need to do".
Over her initial shock, the girl's eyes narrowed into their normal shape. "Not happening", she declared over the musical symphony of splashing and giggling happening on the other side of the fence.
"Come on", Jiraiya pressed. "I'm a very successful author. But only because my descriptions are accurately lush and vibrant". He wiggled his fingers; attempting to weird the girl out and send her running. Just like Tsunade back in their younger days… Of course, Tsunade would have also kicked his ass… "To maintain a high writing standard I must view young and beautiful ladies whenever possible". There was drool crawling down from the corner of Jiraiya's mouth. This, he wasn't doing on purpose. "You know, ones with full lips. Big-"
Jiraiya didn't finish his sentence. His hand flew up to block a kick aimed at his head; his whole hand wrapping around the knobby ankle of the girl who was brave enough to try it… or maybe she was just foolish. Did they not teach the newer generations about the legendary Sannin?
"Lord Hokage told me to stand in front of this bathhouse to stop assholes like you. My guess is he knows you're in the village". The girl spat at him. Like a ferocious kitten who hadn't mastered their claws yet.
Jiraiya chuckled as he used his free hand to wipe away his drool. "So, you know who I am". Maybe Naruto's generation wasn't as hopeless as he feared. Testing, Jiraiya started squeezing and rubbing the girl's ankle; ignoring it when the girl bristled. It wasn't a bad kick. Balanced. Well-aimed. A strong stance. Someone had been practicing their taijutsu. But there wasn't much strength to it. Feeling the girl's muscles, Jiraiya could guess why. But he supposed it would take time. After all, girls developed differently than boys. "But that means you also know, my dear, that there is no stopping the great and mighty Jiraiya, the Toad Sage!"
The girl was unimpressed. Even seemed annoyed as her left eye began to twitch. Definitely a brat. Jiraiya decided. Not cute at all. He wasn't prepared when an unexplained and invisible wall shoved him back a few inches; forcing his hands off the girl. Was that… it felt like pure chakra.
Jiraiya was impressed. He didn't let it show. "That was a good try, little girl", Jiraiya goaded; all play without an ounce of seriousness. "An interesting party trick". In the blink of an eye, Jiraiya rose to his feet and started posturing with his arms. "But it's not enough. Nothing will ever be able to pull a true master away from his art".
"There's nothing artful about spying on women", the girl yelled back as she had the nerve to pull a Kunai at the great Jiraiya. Didn't she understand that a Sannin could squash her like a bug?
In the background, the splashing stopped. "What was that?" Someone, a woman, asked. "Did someone say we're being spied on?"
"Maybe we should go home early".
Jiraiya's arms hung limply at his sides. You mean he missed his chance all because he decided to play with a genin instead? "Now look what you've done", Jiraiya complained; pouting like a spoiled child. "You scared away all the pretty ladies. And I didn't even get to take one peak".
"Pervy-Sage!" Naruto screeched as he raced into the scene. "There you are. I've been looking all over for you. You promised to help me with my training. Remember yesterday?" Naruto came to a halt between Jiraiya and the girl; his back towards the steaming water. He waved an accusing finger in Jiraiya's direction. "But all you've done since this morning was stare at girls in their bathing suits! And now I find you back at the bathhouse with Rion looking like she wants to kill you and… and…" Naruto's brain caught up with his mouth.
Blinking he lowered his pointed finger and turned his head towards me. "Hey, Rion. Why are you here? The Pervy-Sage didn't do anything to you, did he?" Rion. Jiraiya repeated the name to himself as Naruto turned away. It was nice to know Naruto had friends. The little he'd heard about a Sakura and a Sasuke; Jiraiya worried Naruto had made them up.
Naruto's appearance was enough to make the girl back down, but Naruto returned his attention to Jiraiya before she could say anything. "It's bad enough you're crazy for the ladies, but don't bring my friends into it". Jiraiya let out a self-pitying sigh. This idiot. He may look like Minato, but Naruto lacked his tact entirely. Maybe he wasn't ready to begin training. "I don't care if you are going to teach me a super cool jutsu. If you hurt my friends, I'll pulverize you!"
"Give me a break, Naruto", Jiraiya whined to hide other emotions. "Any friend of yours is way too young for me. Just look at her. She could pass as a boy if she had to".
Naruto shook a fist at him. "Pervy-Sage!"
In that moment, he reminded Jiraiya so much of Kushina that Jiraiya didn't hear the approach of a third. "Naruto? Rion?" A concerned voice made herself known. "Is everything okay?"
A young woman joined the fray; placing a protective arm around Rion's shoulders. She quickly became the only thing Jiraiya could focus on. Inky black hair (a poor dye job) hid the most prominent feature. But Jiraiya wasn't fooled. He recognized her nose. Her eyes. The shape of her eyebrows. It was the spitting image of his mother.
Naruto lowered his fists as he turned toward the newcomer. "Anzu Nee-Chan, what are you doing here?" He sounded genuinely surprised to see her. Anzu. Jiraiya repeated the name to himself. Hearing Naruto confirm what he already knew.
"I had the day off", Anzu replied nervously; eyes flashing over Naruto. But they quickly returned to Jiraiya. As if afraid he'd do something. Did she recognize him? Hope bubbled at the same time as dread settled in his gut. No, that was unlikely. The last time Jiraiya visited, his kid had just started toddling. "Gai mentioned how good it was for recovering to take a long soak, so I thought I'd see if I could buy a pass or something… for Rock Lee".
"That's a great idea", Naruto agreed as Jiraiya's mouth hung open with a slacked jaw. Who was Gai to her? And this Rock Lee? Jiraiya's eyes traced the arm Anzu had over Rion's shoulder. And this Rion?
"But why are you and Rion here?" Anzu continued; casting a side-eyed glance full of concern and care onto Rion "Are you okay?" She asked both of them.
She reminded Jiraiya of his mother. From her stance to her expressions… Suddenly, Jiraiya felt like he had been doused by a bucket of ice water. No. How? Why?! He wasn't old enough to be a grandparent!
"Yeah, we're fine", Naruto answered. He turned his back completely to Jiraiya; his whole posture relaxing. "I'm just here to track down this old geezer so I can finally get some training done and Rion… Why are you here?"
The girl sighed. As if annoyed by the whole situation. "I got assigned to protecting the bathhouse from jerks trying to steal a peek".
Anzu's eyes widened as Naruto teased his new teacher. "Hear that, Pervy-Sage? Old man Hokage must be on to you".
"But…" Anzu worried; her eyes giving Jiraiya another once over. His mouth was no longer open. It was a slight improvement. "The type of people who would do that… I signed you up for the academy so when you grew up you wouldn't have to deal with these sorts of things".
His kid's words hurt. More than he would ever admit. She didn't want her daughter around the likes of him. Afraid. Maybe even ashamed of where and who she came from and… that was Jiraiya's fault. "Let's go, Naruto", he spoke. Skill was the only reason his voice came out normal.
"Huh?" Naruto asked as he turned his head to look at the Toad Sage.
"When there's still daylight. You said you wanted to train, right?" If his kid didn't want him around, Jiraiya would respect it. He owed her that much. Safer too. But… his eyes lingered on Rion. His grandchild. A genin was different, right?
A broad grin bloomed across Naruto's face. It nearly drowned out Jiraiya's mask of indifference. "Alright! Now that's what I'm talking about". Naruto ran off, calling over his shoulder, "See you at home. Rion. Anzu Nee-Chan. Maybe we can have ramen for dinner!" Jiraiya followed. Naruto could tell him more. He thought. The three of them seemed close.
If Hiruzen chose to reflect on his career, he might consider that his reign as Hokage was longer than the others. Having outlived his successor. But Hiruzen chose not to think of such things. Thoughts like that were too heavy for his weary old bones. Especially when there was so much to do.
Orochimaru infiltrating and threatening the village, for one. The capture and detainment of a confirmed spy who was also Danzo's man was another. Sasuke Uchiha being targeted. The ongoing Chunin exams and hosting foreign guests. And that was only naming the big ticket items!
Hiruzen missed retirement. Granted, it hadn't been a long one to start. Minato left them far too soon. But it had been nice to go to bed at a reasonable hour and get up when he damn well pleased.
Sighing, Hiruzen leaned back in his desk chair and peered out of the window of his office. The moon hung high in the sky and the stars were out. Busy with planning and paperwork, Hiruzen had lost his chance to say good night to his grandson.
A flare of chakra. A puff of smoke. Hiruzen turned his chair to face forward. "Jiraiya", he greeted his former student. "I was hoping to see you sooner". Hiruzen let his tone say what his words did not.
Standing in the middle of the Hokage's office, Jiraiya fidgeted under Hiruzen's disapproving gaze. Just as he had during his genin days. However; just like his genin days, Jiraiya wasn't terribly affected. "You were right to contact me", Jiraiya said. "Orochimaru laid a seal over the original. It was causing the fox's chakra to leak out. I was able to remove it".
Hiruzen breathed a sigh of relief. That was one less thing for him to worry about. "Will you remain in the village? Orochimaru is still a pressing concern". Hiruzen knew better than to phrase it as an order. Jiraiya never responded well to those. None of his students did.
Rubbing at his nose, fingers twitching, Jiraiya nodded; his thoughts elsewhere. "I'm going to teach the brat the summoning jutsu. Minato would've passed the toad contract to him if he could".
Hiruzen hummed as Jiraiya fell silent. Knowing Jiraiya had more to say from his pained expression and wandering eye contact. "If he can manage that", Jiraiya continued after a pause. "Then it might be time for him to join me".
Nodding, Hiruzen stared Jiraiya down. Him training Naruto wasn't news. It had always been their plan. But there was something Jiraiya wasn't saying. "What is on your mind?" Hiruzen pressed.
Waves of different emotions competed for space on Jiraiya's face. Guilt, panic, remorse; all things Hiruzen hadn't seen from him since the deaths of Minato and Kushina. "It was a mistake", Jiraiya forced out as he braced himself against Hiruzen's desk; arms locked.
Hiruzen linked his fingers together and covered his mouth as he waited for Jiraiya to get whatever was bothering him off his chest. What would it be this time? Perhaps he drank too much. Let Something slip through the cracks? Lost track of the Atsuki? Or maybe Jiraiya had offended the wrong woman. Normally, when Jiraiya wanted to have one of these talks, it had to do with conflicting opinions regarding Naruto's upbringing.
However, Jiraiya admitted to none of those things. "I fathered a child and now my baby has a baby and they both hate me!"
Hiruzen sighed and closed his eyes. He wasn't surprised. In Jiraiya's younger years, he thought little of the consequences of his actions. It wasn't until much experience that Jiraiya learned to safeguard his wild ways; thus putting protections into place. Honestly, Hiruzen would consider it an accomplishment if Jiraiya only had one child.
"And where is your child and grandchild?" Hiruzen asked. While not advisable, some children were conceived out on mission. For those without bloodlines, it didn't have to be an ordeal. The child could grow up in obscurity. Never knowing their parentage. But Jiraiya was an exception. Famed as he was in shinobi circles, any child of his could be used against him.
"In the village", Jiraiya answered; knowing where Hiruzen's thoughts were going. "They were born here. My kid's not trained. But her daughter was. Kid's a genin".
Hiruzen's eyes snapped open with sharp interest. A descendent of Jiraiya's was walking the path of a shinobi? Of course, the village could benefit from another with Jiraiya's skill set. But would he be able to survive a second?
In his mind, Hiruzen combed through the faces of every genin he could recall; searching for traits that would tie them to his former student. Though none stood out. "Who are they?" Was Hiruzen's next question.
"Anzu and Rion", Jiraiya answered; the corner of his lips twinging in guilt. "You know, the genin you assigned to watching the bathhouse. Naruto knows them. Refers to my kid as big sis. I can't decide if the three of them being close is destiny or a cosmic punishment".
As Jiraiya rambled, Hiruzen blinked slowly to school his features. Rion was one genin he was familiar with; having heard her name often. From her infamous notebook, the Land of Waves mission, and her involvement in the chunin exams. Why, Hiruzen personally assigned Rion to the bathhouse mission because he felt it was a way to keep both her and Jiraiya out of trouble.
But she wasn't Jiraiya's grandchild. Hiruzen was certain. Other than obnoxious behavior, the two shared no traits. Secondly, Anzu wasn't Rion's parent. Hiruzen remembered the events two… three years prior. It was hard to forget. Especially when recalling Rion's ludicrous threats.
Shibi Aburame had adamantly and legally claimed his child. A claim that was easily judged in his favor as the child's mother was dead. There was only an older sister to protest. Anzu…
"- I know I should've stepped up. I sent money when I could. But I wasn't ready to be a father. I'm still not". Jiraiya stopped bracing himself on the desk in favor of pulling at his hair on either side of his head. "And it was the smart choice, right? Civilians get hurt when they're too close to shinobi. But it's different with the girl. She's a ninja and mostly grown. I've trained genin before. And with her being friends with Naruto, I could train them both. I mean, if it gets out that I got a genin as a granddaughter, that girl is going to have a target painted on her back. What if…"
Hiruzen leaned further into his chair as he thought about what to do. While not a priority like Naruto and now Sasuke, Rion Aburame was a headache. The extra genin they didn't have a team for. The shinobi who may have encouraged a rogue to start his own village. The genin who managed to pick out a spy and a traitor when none of her seasoned comrades had. A flight risk who was likely to run if pushed too far. The same flight risk Danzo was taking an interest in. Hiruzen was at a loss in deciding how to handle this specific genin.
"-Naruto says Rion is smart and stupid at the same time. But I don't know what he means by that. Something about not believing in heroes. He also said Anzu is the best even if she can't cook. And I don't know what that means either". Jiraiya's hands were on either side of his head as he pulled at his hair. As if a massive headache was making his life miserable. Something inside of Jiraiya forced him to a moment of silence; his eyes deeply conflicted. The next thing he said was much softer. "Her Chakra. It's potent like mine had been. I got a taste of it when she attacked me at the bathhouse".
Hiruzen's thoughts were elsewhere as Jiraiya continued to ramble. Perhaps it would be beneficial if another took an interest in Rion Aburame. The girl needed a firm hand and someone who was more logical than emotional. That's why she was assigned to Ibiki. She needed to be constantly challenged and kept on her toes. Which is why Ibiki had her revolving through the different teams for training. Shibi and the sister, Jiraiya's offspring, provided for the girl's emotional needs; validation, affection, and positive regard. Even if Rion didn't see it that way.
But all these different supports did not stop Danzo's interest. Hiruzen would argue that the connections this child was slowly forming only piqued Danzo's intrigue. Jiraiya's involvement may make it worse. However, Hiruzen stood by his original plan for Rion. The more attachments people had to the girl, the harder it would be for her to disappear.
Unlacing his fingers, Hiruzen straightened in his chair. "If you want to train your granddaughter, I won't stop you", he said; his expression professionally blank as Jiraiya perked up. "However, you'll need to make formal plans with Ibiki Morino. He is Rion's jonin commander". Reading the question on his student's face before Jiraiya could ask, Hiruzen explained, "Rion is apprenticed to the T&I department. Due to her upbringing, your granddaughter is considered a flight risk". Hiruzen enjoyed the guilty flinch from Jiraiya. "When making genin assignments, we felt it wise to limit the amount of opportunities Rion may have to leave the village. However, I'm sure Jiraiya the Toad Sage can manage to keep one genin from running".
Jiraiya nodded like a man who was forcing himself to accept awful news. His guilt-ridden eyes stared worriedly at his feet. First, Jiraiya had a daughter he couldn't allow himself to know. Too many would be after her head. Then, his orphaned godson had a demon inside of him that a terrorist organization desired. And now a granddaughter who hated his guts and the village they were both sworn to protect. Jiraiya must have done something awful in a past life to deserve all this. He was sure of it.
Watching his old student's internal crisis, Hiruzen tried not to smile. This was a suitable punishment, Hirzuen decided. For all the gray hairs Jiraiya had caused him. In that regard, Hiruzen felt justified in his lie. If Jiraiya was so foolhardy to believe Rion Aburame was his grandchild, who was Hiruzen to set him straight? Besides, Hiruzen could use a good laugh. And this was shaping up to be an excellent one.
Using the back of his hand, Jiraiya wiped the drool off his chin as he chuckled; playing it thick. "Ohohoho, Little girl. You won't be able to get rid of me today". Since that first encounter, Jiraiya stopped coming to the bathhouse for the ladies… mostly. His main reason was just to check in with the girl. "So, what's it going to be? More party tricks? Paper bombs? Maybe you'll try-"
Jiraiya cut himself off as he caught a kunai before it could impale him in his left eye. "What's this?" he asked; far too amused for someone who had just been attacked. His granddaughter had spunk. But lacked finesse. So much like him. "One kunai. That's it? Are you even trying? You'll have to do much more if you want to stop the great and amazing-"
A loud bang followed by an overpowering acrid scent and a large gray cloud of smoke engulfed Jiraiya's surrounding area. It was enough to mask the natural smell of minerals wafting from the hot springs. And the smoke paired with the steam made it much more uncomfortable to breathe in. Jiraiya started coughing as if trying to dislodge a lung out of his body. And a prankster too! Jiraiya's heart was aching as he imagined what having Naruto and Rion in the same academy class had to be like. He imagined what it may have been like if he had a hand in raising all three of his kids. First Anzu and then Naruto and Rion side-by-side…
"Ugh! What's that smell?" Some woman from the other side of the fence could be heard.
"Is something burning?" A second voice wondered.
Impatient, just like her granddad, Rion didn't wait for the smoke to clear. Holding her breath, she ran forward to attack. A well-aimed roundhouse kick was blocked by a raised forearm. Bending a knee, she sprang away: trying to catch the underside of Jiraiya's chin with her foot. However, Jiraiya moved in time; allowing Rion to land on her feet.
When the smoke cleared, Jiraiya was further back. He squatted over his knees; still coughing to clear his airways.
"We have been here for a while", a different woman from behind the fence. "It would be a good time to go home".
"You tied a smoke bomb to your kunai". Jiraiya kept pausing to let his lungs heave a cough. It disguised his pride wonderfully. Exhaling through her nose, Rion reached for a second kunai as Jiraiya fully regained himself. "Amusing", he declared; standing taller into a defensive stance without fully straightening his knees. "But you'll have to do better than that if you want to pull one over on me". With a gleam in his eyes, he pointed a baiting finger in Rion's direction. He was having fun. Jiraiya wasn't afraid to admit it. Both kids were easy to rile up. And playing with them was lessening his burden a little each day.
Jiraiya wanted to coo at the murderous glint in Rion's eyes as she lunged forward. It looked as scary as a puppy chasing its tail. Upon impact, Jiraiya wrapped a hand around Rion's wrist and lifted her arm over her head; making it so her kunai couldn't be used to stab or cut.
Still, the kid persisted. In a move that Jiraiya knew was uncomfortable, Rion curled up her knees and rocked. With the soles of her feet facing away from the rest of her body, she pushed. Rion pushed without ever making contact with Jiraiya's abdomen. A wall of chakra formed between them, forcing Jiraiya a few feet back. It was stronger than last time. Jiraiya noted as he released his hellion of a granddaughter.
Not expecting it, Rion fell. The kunai in her hand was dislodged and clattered against the stone pathway as she landed on her side. "That party trick again?" Jiraiya teased as he stood a distance away; a triumphant smile on his face. Give it twenty years, Jiraiya thought. And this kid would rival him. She and Naruto. The future was bright. "Someone needs to teach you some new jutsu. But I guess not everyone can live up to the power of great and amazing-"
"Hey, Pervy-Sage!" Naruto ran up from behind Jiraiya as Rion hauled herself to her feet. "You said you'd be back after lunch. But it's been hours!"
Jiraiya's shoulders dropped and his face became haggard. "You fool", he complained; running a hand over his face and stretching the skin on his cheeks. "Don't you know you shouldn't interrupt a master when he's imparting great wisdom onto the common man?" Jiraiya knew his time with his grandchild was limited and he needed to make the most of it. Damn it!
Meanwhile, Rion used Naruto's distraction to retrieve her Kunai. Absentmindedly twirling it around her finger as she thought.
"What do you mean?" Naruto complained as he threw Jiraiya's words back at him. "A master. Great Wisdom. The common man. I don't get it!" As Jiraiya pouted, Naruto kept going. His voice was so loud that he drowned out any sound coming from the baths. "The only thing you're a master in is peeping on girls! And don't give me that crap about wisdom. Rion's the only one here and I know she doesn't care about what a perverted old man has to say!"
By the time Jiraiya looked up from arguing with Naruto, Rion was gone.
Ibiki Morino was a difficult man to track down. But Jiraiya managed; cornering the head of T&I in a dive bar. A bottle of beer sat before him on a grimy table. "Jiraiya-Sama", the stern Ibiki greeted; his arms folded across his chest. He looked aged. Was Jiraiya's first thought. Worry lines clouded Ibiki's face and the dark bags under his eyes spoke of long sleepless hours. Not that it was surprising. Orochimaru on the loose would stir up extra work.
Sitting across from Ibiki, Jiraiya jumped straight in. He knew men like Ibiki had no patience for small talk. "I've been getting to know your genin these last few days".
Ibiki's back stiffened as he pinned Jiraiya with a hard stare. There was no mistaking the warning in Ibiki's eyes. If Jiraiya were a lesser man, he would've flinched. "What has she done now?" Despite his posture, Ibiki's voice came out resigned. It reminded Jiraiya of the old man from his genin days. Maybe it was a tone all jonin instructors learned. Though Jiraiya couldn't remember using it himself. Minato had been an easy student.
"Nothing". Jiraiya spoke quickly. Feeling the need to stand up for his granddaughter. "At least, nothing she isn't supposed to be doing". Around them, the low murmur of shinobi trying to relax filled every corner of the bar. Ibiki remained unmoved and Jiraiya felt compelled to explain. "Lord Hokage assigned her to guard the bathhouse from peepers. We've been crossing paths a lot since then". Only Jiraiya's lack of shame and extensive experience kept him from blushing. Even when under Ibiki's judgmental stare.
Sighing, Ibiki unfolded his arms and grabbed the bottle. He took a long swig before returning his eyes to Jiraiya. "If this is a mission, I'm not calling her off". Lord Hokage had promised Ibiki that his student would be kept busy and out of harm's way while he was dealing with the mess of Orochimaru and Kabuto. But given Rion's history, Ibiki would have preferred more clerical tasks for her.
"No", Jiraiya quickly agreed. "That's not why I'm here. I like the kid". The dark, dangerous warning returned to Ibiki's stare. Low levels of killing intent started brushing against Jiraiya's skin. A few curious heads began turning in their direction. "No". Jiraiya waved his hands in the air. "That's not it. What I mean to say is… I want to train her".
Pressing his lips together, Ibiki's nostrils flared as he set the bottle down on the table. A little louder than necessary. "Why?" He pressed.
Jiraiya used shifty eyes as he studied every face in the room. Slowly, he leaned forward and talked so lowly that only Ibiki could hear. "She's my granddaughter". Ibiki flinched. But his surprise did not hide Jiraiya's horror and longing from him.
Blinking, Ibiki allowed this new information to sink in. If what Jiraiya said was true then… Rion Aburame, the daughter of the head of the Aburame clan, was also the descendent of a sannin… If Ibiki had hair, he was sure it would have all turned gray by now. And half of it would have been Rion's fault.
But the more Ibiki thought about it, the more things weren't adding up. For this to be true, how old would Jiraiya have to be to father Rion's mother? Ibiki read Rion's file when she was first brought to his attention as an academy student. And again when she was assigned to his department. Rion's mother wasn't born in Konoha. For Jiraiya to be the father it would have to have been while he was on mission. And… Ibiki couldn't picture it.
This needed to be investigated. Even though Ibiki currently didn't have the time. Still, Ibiki decided, no matter what the truth was, it didn't change his answer. "No".
Jiraiya leaned back; eyes blinking with a strange mixture of surprise and gratitude. "No?"
"No", Ibiki confirmed. Unmoved like the thickest tree trunk weathering the most severe storms. "Rion is my student. I have plans for her. You would only be a distraction".
"She's strong", Jiraiya pressed.
"I'm aware".
"Her chakra is like mine". Ibiki doubted that statement very much. "She'll need specialized instruction. She-"
Ibiki cut him off. "Rion spent her early years in abject poverty. She escaped the red district by the skin of her teeth". Ibiki didn't miss the guilt-ridden wince from Jiraiya as he made that statement. Therefore, Ibiki felt no need to mention Shibi's intervention. "Currently, she is the sole provider for her family". Because if Jiraiya was the grandfather of Rion, he'd have to be the grandfather of the older sister too. "Rion can't learn from you. When she finds out about your relation to them, she'll be too angered to listen. Do you think she would accept you or even tolerate you once learning of a grandparent willfully leaving them to fend for themselves?"
Jiraiya sat with round shoulders; his expression bothered. It reminded Ibiki of a genin getting a dressing down. "I sent money when I could", Jiraiya offered meekly.
Ibiki arched an eyebrow that couldn't be seen under his bandana. "They never saw a single Ryo". Ibiki was certain.
Eyebrows slanted inward; Jiraiya frowned. Clearly, that didn't sit right with him. Clearly, the man now had his own investigation to carry out. "Do they need anything?" Jiraiya asked; sounding like a man grasping at straws.
Ibiki decided to throw him a bone. After all, he had his own shortcomings when it came to family. "Not presently. Rion is under my protection and Gai Maito has taken a liking to Anzu". Or so Ibiki had been told. If Anko was to be believed. "They're taking care of each other".
Letting out a long-ragged breath, Jiraiya rubbed the back of his neck. "That's a relief".
There was a brief silence as Ibiki took another swig of beer. "If that changes, I'll let you know". Because Ibiki wasn't a fool. Danzo was still sniffing around his student. Ibiki wasn't about to throw away an asset if there was a chance that he may be needed.
With thoughts weighing him down, Jiraiya found himself on top of a roof across from Naruto's apartment. Looking through his window he could see the blond snoozing without a care in the world. Minato, are you seeing this? He asked the heavens. But Jiraiya didn't imagine an answer. His thoughts were too great for other matters.
He sensed the brat before she found him. And steeled himself when the little hellion bounded onto the rooftop beside him. "Leave", she snarled.
"Good to see you too", Jiraiya responded; keeping his eyes on Naruto. Rion was doing well. Ibiki had assured him. "But isn't it a bit late for little girls to be wandering the streets? What would your mom say?"
Nostrils flaring, Rion's hands curled into fists. "Leave", she repeated. This time sounding a bit sick. "If you're here for Naruto, he'll find you in the morning. There's no reason for you…" Her fingernails dug into her palms. "She doesn't do that anymore!"
That provoked a response. Rion was the one who got them out of the red district. That meant there were years Anzu had to provide for them the same way her mother had. If it was by choice, Jiraiya didn't see anything wrong with it. It was how his mom kept a roof over their heads. But it wasn't something Jiraiya liked to think about when it came to his kid. Turning his head, Jiraiya stared at Rion. They seemed to have that in common.
Rion kept going. "She has a job at a restaurant. She's happy. Just leave her alone!"
Jiraiya stared. Anzu was happy. It was nice to hear. "What about you, kid?" He asked as a nighttime breeze swept across the roof and ruffled his spikey mane. "Are you happy?"
The question completely seemed to take the little hellion by surprise. As if she'd never been asked that before. How did grandparents make their grandchildren happy? Buy them sweets? Jiraiya supposed he could ask the old man the next time he saw him.
"Your name is Rion, right?" Jiraiya moved on. "How do you write that?"
"Phonetically", the brat snarked.
Jiraiya huffed. She was so much like him at that age. "I meant in kanji". But the girl just scowled at him; unwilling to offer anything. Perhaps she didn't know. "That thing you do with your chakra", Jiraiya moved on. "To push people away, you must have impressive reserves. It's probably genetic".
"I'm aware", she growled.
Jiraiya didn't believe her. "Are you?" His tone was mocking as he faced forward once more. This time staring down at the street rather than through Naruto's window. "If you don't test your limits and train your chakra, you'll never master it. Maybe you should join Naruto and me for training. I could show you a thing or two". Jiraiya's tone was different as he made this offer. It was less baiting. More wistful. And he hoped this wouldn't get back to Ibiki.
"I'd rather stick senbon in my eyes".
Jiraiya started to laugh; his shoulders shook with amusement. But any sound he might have made was cut short as he peered further at the street below. "Why is she with him?" He muttered to himself. Though still loud enough for Rion to hear.
Curious, Rion moved close enough to see. Outside of their apartment building, standing under the street light, were Gai and Anzu. They held hands as they talked. Anzu had her hair down as she peered up at Gai; smiling. Which Gai returned; teeth gleaming as he said something that made Anzu giggle. They only stood there for a moment before Gai let go of Anzu's hand in favor of wrapping an arm over her shoulders as he led her into our building. He glanced up in Jiraiya's and Rion's direction as they disappeared up the stairwell. Anzu was none the wiser. Young love. Jiraiya was happy for his kid. Jiraiya was… she could do better than Gai Maito, right? She was the daughter of a sannin after all.
"They're dating", Rion unhelpfully supplied. Jiraiya kept his eyes on the bottom of the stairs; his lips pressed together in an uncomfortable line. "She likes Gai. Chose him herself. She doesn't have to pretend or force herself to do things with him. She's moved on from that life. So you can leave". Rion sounded almost boastful.
The light in the apartment next to Naruto's flicked on. Anzu appeared in the bedroom as she approached the window and pulled the teel curtains shut. Jiraiya didn't move. He didn't say anything. His kid was happy and living a better life than before. He'd still check. Just to be sure, but… maybe it was just the little hellion and Naruto he needed to worry about.
Turning his back to Rion and the window, Jiraiya raised a hand in farewell; trying to ignore the relief he felt. "Think about it, Kid", he called over his shoulder as he walked away. "Training with Naruto and me would really help you out. And who knows. Maybe after I get to know you, I can find the right characters for writing your name".
Jiraiya didn't go far. Just around the block. By then, Rion had retired into her home for the night. And Jiraiya was able to catch Gai as he left the building. "Master Jiraiya", Gai greeted; unsurprised to see him. He stopped under a street lamp; posture relaxed and smiling as he waited for Jiraiya to join him. "Are you here for Naruto? Energetic thing, isn't he? Gotta love that youthful spark".
Determined to get answers, truthful ones; Jiraiya placed a hand on either side of Gai's shoulders. "What are your intentions with Anzu?" He asked.
Gai's eyes reacted with comical confusion. "Wha?" he drawled out, dropping the last sound in his question entirely. He's a jonin. Jiraiya reminded himself as he watched the wheels turn in Gai's head; comprehension quickly growing. He wasn't a bad option for Anzu. Especially if she wanted him. But Gai was just so… goofy. Dressed in green spandex. Going on and on about the power of youth. Was that good enough for Jiraiya's progeny?
Gai's eyes hardened the moment he finished drawing conclusions. Like Rion, he made the wrong ones. Slapping Jiraiya's hands off him, Gai took a step back. "Anzu is a kind, hardworking woman. She has a new job. A new life, and wants nothing to do with old… customers".
Jiraiya blanched as that sickening thought was forced into his head. He felt like gagging. "Not like that, you fool!" Jiraiya screeched; shaking his head as if to clear his mind of unsightly things. "I never… gave her business". Gai breathed a big breath of relief. "I am- I mean –" Jiraiya stepped closer to Gai; hands balled into fists. "What are your intentions?" He repeated; words coming out in a frustrated growl.
Gai stood straight. He didn't understand why Master Jiraiya wanted to know. But he had no problem with announcing his feelings to a comrade. "Anzu is a dulcet beauty. A radiant flower. I am in love with her generosity and compassion. Her youthful attitude and sense of loyalty motivate me to do my very best. I am a better, stronger man with her in my life". Gai finished with a satisfied nod of his head.
Jiraiya's shoulders drooped as he began to feel a dull ache in his head. He didn't know what to do with… all that. Everything Gai said sounded fine…
"Excuse me, Master Jiraiya", Gai interjected into Jiraiya's inner turmoil. "But why do you wish to know?"
Looking up, Jiraiya stared through tired and ailing eyes. "She's my daughter".
Stumbling a step back, Gai reacted like a character from one of those cheesy mystery shows when the murder was just revealed. "You're what?!"
Except, Jiraiya didn't seem to hear him. "I suppose she could do worse", he muttered to himself. "You're not who I'd choose for a son-in-law". Gai gulped as he took in exactly what Jiraiya was saying and the implications. Kakashi would never let him hear the end of this once if he found out. "But if she's happy". Jiraiya's eyes narrowed; staring unblinkingly at Gai. "You are willing to marry her, right?"
Standing at attention, Gai nodded; moving his head as if it were a salt shaker. "If she'll have me".
Lucky for Gai, it was the right answer. Jiraiya lowered his gaze once more. "That's good. It should be a choice". Even Gai couldn't mistake the guilt in Jiraiya's tone. "What about Rion?" Jiraiya asked himself. But it might as well have been for Gai.
Gai offered Jiraiya a smile. Trying to encourage the man on this path of redemption he must surely be on. "Rion is a precocious scamp. Anzu is proud of all her accomplishments".
"But are you willing to raise a kid that isn't yours?" Jiraiya pinned him with another look. "She's not, right?" There was no resemblance between Gai and Rion as far as Jiraiya could tell.
"Uh…" Gai felt more confused than he had in a long time. "Anzu and Rion aren't-"
Jiraiya talked over him. "I suppose it doesn't matter. The kid is a genin. Legally, she can take care of herself". He started walking away; still mulling over every turbulent thought.
"Master Jiraiya!" Gai called after him. Though Jiraiya appeared too distracted to hear him.
The next time Jiraiya saw Rion, her nose was buried in a book. Sitting crossed-legged with her back against the fence separating the women's bath from the street, she flipped through the pages; unaware of the world passing by around her. So much like me, Jiraiya thought as he approached.
"What's this?" Jiraiya taunted as he came to stand in front of her; using his tone to pull Rion's attention to him. "Not going to challenge me today? Got nothing to say?"
The girl didn't look up; turning a page in her book like she hadn't even heard him. The natural scent hung heavily in the steam-filled air as the sounds of splashing and giggling acted as ambient noise. Jiraiya slinked closer. "Is that a good book?" His back was to the fence as he peered down at the book lying open in Rion's lap. "Do you like to read?"
Skimming, she turned to another page. "You know, I'm a published author myself". Feeling impatient, Rion flipped to the back of the book. Was there an index? "I've written best sellers that have touched the hearts of many". Still, the girl remained uninterested. Jiraiya pouted. But not for long. He knew what would provoke a response.
Changing his tone, it went from proud and boastful to dopey and aroused. Signing in annoyance, Rion slipped a hand into her back pouch. "Describing lush and beautiful women. With hips like this. And a silhouette like that". Jiraiya paired his sentences with hand gestures. Self-induced drool dribbled from the corner of his mouth as he turned to face the fence; squatting to find a peephole.
But he didn't get much further. Rion attempted to stab a senbon into his eye as soon as he got too close to the fence. Jiraiya caught Rion's wrist before she could do any damage. "Ohohoho", Jiraiya chortled; using his free hand to wipe away the drool. "So, you were listening".
Muttering offensive things under her breath, Rion looked away from my book and made eye contact with Jiraiya. Only to come to the startling realization that their faces were uncomfortably close. "Why are you still here?" She snarled; trying to rip her wrist free. But Jiraiya's grip was too strong. "Naruto usually runs you off by now".
Grip unrelenting, Jiraiya waved his free hand in front of his face. "I gave the pipsqueak the day off. He needed to get his affairs in order before undergoing the ultimate training". Tomorrow was judgment day. Not that Naruto or his granddaughter knew that. Tomorrow, Jiraiya would know if Naruto was ready to train with him. "Which means you get the great Jiraiya all to yourself. Lucky girl".
Gagging, Rion tried to yank herself free. But Jiraiya didn't budge; enjoying this time with the family he wasn't ready to claim. "It's not luck", Rion declared. "Cursed would be a better description".
Jiraiya's hold didn't waver as he snorted in amusement. "Naruto was looking forward to you training with us. He was disappointed when you never showed up. What have you been doing these last few days?" As Jiraiya talked, he prevented every attempt Rion made at inserting the senbon somewhere in his person. "You know", Jiraiya kept going. "Pushing your chakra like you do isn't going to accomplish much if you don't-"
"Rion" an unknown voice intruded.
Looking away from Jiraiya, Rion locked eyes with a boy wearing sunglasses and a coat with a high collar. "Shino", Rion returned in kind as Jiraiya immediately clocked him as an Aburame. Another little friend of Naruto's and Rion's? "Thanks for meeting me. But..." Rion's eyes drifted over the uninvited person who accompanied Shino. Causing Jiraiya to do the same "Why is he here?"
Rion tried yanking her wrist free again. "Daughter", Shibi greeted. He adjusted his glasses; making the lens glint in a way that made Jiraiya's skin crawl. The Aburame… they were a strange bunch. But… Jiraiya repeated one word over and over in his mind. Daughter?
"Shibi", Rion returned as her wrist unexpectantly slipped free. Jiraiya couldn't help it. He was too busy gaping as he tried to stomach this new piece of information. "Why are you here?" Rion asked; putting the senbon back into her pouch as she stood up. Jiraiya didn't stop her. Daughter? "I only asked Shino to meet me". Rion took her books with her as she stepped away from Jiraiya.
Daughter? Of course, Jiraiya knew Rion had a father. Somewhere. But he didn't expect… he didn't think… Without sunglasses or a collar, how was he supposed to recognize her as an Aburame? Rion didn't even have any bugs! Surely she would have used them to attack him if she had.
Shibi's eyes were focused on Jiraiya as he answered. "We have not shared a meal in a while. Therefore, we will have dinner at a restaurant. You may choose".
Now standing in front of Shino and Shibi, Rion glowered. "I've trained with you every day this week. Isn't that enough?" Shibi's daughter… that meant Shibi and Anzu… Jiraiya didn't know what he should be feeling.
Shibi raised his chin so his mouth was visible over his jacket collar. The corners of his mouth were turned down in warning. But it wasn't directed at Rion. "A consequence of training frequently is needing more calories. I will assure your body is getting what it needs".
For a long moment, the three Aburame stared. Rion at Shibi. Shino at Rion. Wait, were they siblings? They looked to be the same age. Twins? Inwardly, Jiraiya was panicking. Did he have two grandchildren he didn't know about?!
Shibi's gaze remained fixated on Jiraiya. Obviously, he wasn't pleased with how he had come across a grown man sitting so close to his daughter; imprisoning her wrist in his hand. Not that Jiraiya was in a place to be aware of that.
"Here". Rion said; holding out the books for Shino to take. "This is why I wanted to meet. A lot of puppeteers use poison. So, you better be prepared".
Shino took the books. He ran a finger over the titles printed on the covers; ignoring the adults having a staring contest. Once finished, Shino looked up from the books and adjusted his glasses.
"You're welcome", Rion responded. Even though the response made no sense to Jiraiya. Shino hadn't said anything. "There wasn't much. My level of clearance didn't get me very far".
"Are you ready for dinner?" Shibi asked; still glaring at Jiraiya behind his shades.
"Sure", Rion shrugged as she twisted her neck to peer over her shoulder. "If the old geezer's done being a menace for the day. I guess I could quit early".
Jiraiya was still squatting by the fence; his jaw slack. Though he seemed to come back to himself when Shibi reluctantly bowed at the waist. "Jiraiya-Sama, will you allow my daughter this respite?" It was overly formal. Even for an Aburame. Giving Jiraiya the sense he was in hot water.
"Your daughter?" Jiraiya questioned. He couldn't help himself.
Shino straightened and aggressively pushed up his glasses as Shino inched closer to his father and sister. "Yes", Shibi confirmed; leaving no room for interpretation.
"But that would mean you slept with…" Jiraiya's brain caught up with his mouth as conflict marred his expression. "… her mom".
As he had done many times before, Shibi placed a hand on top of Rion's head. The claim was obvious to anyone who saw it. "While I'm remorseful of my choices leading up to Rion's conception, I'm not ashamed of my child". There was a hard edge in Shibi's voice. Contrasting to his normal monotone. "Excuse us, Jiraiya-Sama". And Shibi turned away; expecting Shino and Rion to follow.
Once night hit, Jiraiya searched for Shibi Aburame. But he need not bother. Shibi found him. Jumping from the roof of a two-story building, Shibi landed in front of Jiraiya; blocking his path as bugs buzzed agitatedly around Shibi's head.
"Hey, listen-" Jiraiya tried.
"My child", Shibi interrupted. "Is exactly that. A child". Each word that left Shibi's mouth echoed like a threat.
Sighing, Jiraiya bowed his head. Why did everyone think the worst of him? He'd never harm a kid. He even took in foreign orphans for goodness sake! "It's not like that", he tried to defend himself. And what right did Shibi Aburame have to judge him about his exploits? If he truly fathered Rion, Shibi was just as guilty as Jiraiya! "Rion is-" Shibi's fingers twitched menacingly at the sound of his daughter's name. The bugs flying around his head seemed to buzz louder. "Look, does the kid need anything?"
The killing intent leaking off Shibi was no joke. But Jiraiya had felt worse. "That is not your concern". Shibi adjusted his glasses. "Why? Because Rion is not your concern".
With the shake of his head; jostling his great shaggy mane, Jiraiya disagreed. "She's my granddaughter".
Shibi blinked. Not that Jiraiya could tell. Ever so slightly, the bugs around him calmed. "I find that unlikely".
Jiraiya took a step forward; finding himself glaring through the lens of Shibi's sunglasses. "She is", he insisted. "And if you are her father-" Jiraiya stepped closer. "That means you slept with my daughter!"
At his intensity, Shibi shrunk back. A grandfather was a better alternative than what Shibi had feared. However, it still felt… off.
"She couldn't have been much older than Rion is now! You creep! What is wrong with you?" Anger colored Jiraiya's face as he waved his hands in the air. He wanted to slug Shibi a good one; knock those glasses right off his nose.
Shibi frowned; expression hidden by his collar. The woman hadn't been young when Shibi visited her. He was certain she was older than him on the night of Rion's conception. "I did not-"
Except Jiraiya wasn't having it. He shoved a single finger under Shibi's nose; standing as close to the man as he dared. "If you sniff at my kid ever again, I'll find out",
Shibi didn't know what Jiraiya was talking about. The woman was dead. "Jiraiya-Sama, I think you're-"
"She's in a relationship now. She doesn't need the likes of you!"
This was getting out of hand. "Jiraiya-Sama-" Shibi tried again.
"And another thing!" Jiraiya couldn't be stopped. "I won't stop you from seeing Rion". Kids needed their fathers after all. "But if you hurt my grandbaby, I'll end you". Shadows covered Jiraiya's face as he leaned even closer; his mouth close to Shibi's ear. "Toads Vs. Bugs: the toad always wins". With a swirl of chakra, Jiraiya vanished; taking one or two of Shibi's bugs with him.
Standing alone in the street in the middle of the night, Shibi blinked. What just happened? Taking in a long inhale, Shibi steadied himself. His child appeared to be a magnet for nonsense and Shibi wasn't surprised in the least.
Hiruzen sat in his office with the mid-afternoon sun shining through the open windows and on his paperwork. It was one of the rare moments when he was alone. For weeks, months, his office had seen people coming and going as Konoha prepared for an incoming invasion, prepped for the final exams, and dealt with everything else that was thrown their way.
He was worried. How could he not be? Orochimaru was no laughing matter. Lives would be lost. Good men and women whom Hiruzen cherished as precious members of Konoha's ranks. And his grandson, even from the safety of the shelters, was about to experience his first taste of shinobi life. Despite this looming threat and his fears, Hiruzen still found moments in his day to smile and chuckle to himself. It was impossible not to.
Ever since Jiraiya returned to the village, Hiruzen had been gifted with many amusing comments about his old student's actions. First, it was Ibiki; coming to report T&I's progress regarding Kabuto. But he lingered in Hiruzen's office. Waiting for the Hokage to ask what else was on Ibiki's mind. "Jiraiya-Sama expressed interest in Rion". He shared when Hiruzen had asked.
Hiruzen leaned back in his chair; an eyebrow poised. "Oh?"
Ibiki's face was most unamused as he elaborated. "Jiraiya-Sama is under the impression that Rion is his granddaughter". Hiruzen didn't react. "That's impossible, correct?" Hiruzen neither confirmed nor denied. He merely allowed Ibiki to get a good look at his eyes. It was enough for the head of T&I. Letting out a breathless sigh, Ibiki shook his head. "That girl will force me into an early retirement".
Hiruzen laughed. "You're not the first jonin instructor to feel so". He ignored it when Ibiki grimaced at the title. "Nor will you be the last".
The next person to give Hiruzen cause to be amused was Gai. He arrived in Hiruzen's office early one morning to receive new orders. However, before Hiruzen could say anything, Gai blurted out, "I think Master Jiraiya wants me to marry his daughter!"
Hiruzen blinked and leaned back in his chair; he was looking forward to what Gai said next.
"I mean, I don't mind. Anzu is… Well, she's the most amazing woman I've ever set my eyes on". Hiruzen folded his hands and covered his mouth to hide the smile growing on his lips. "But… err… he said something about being his son-in-law and I- I didn't know who Anzu's father was". Gai blushed scarlet as he stumbled over his words. "What if he doesn't think I'm good enough for her? I mean, Anzu said she doesn't know her father. So I doubt she'd listen to him. But-"
"Gai", Hiruzen interjected; taking pity on the man before he could talk himself in circles. "Ignore Jiraiya. There's nothing he can do. Because if your young lady shares your feelings, you will have the Hokage's full blessing moving forward".
Hiruzen didn't think it was possible, but Gai flushed an even deeper shade of scarlet. "Thank you, Lord Hokage. It's an honor". He bowed at a ninety-degree angle.
Still, that wasn't the end of the exchange. "Something else, Gai?" Hiruzen pressed with Gai did not straighten out of his bow.
"Yes, Lord Hokage". Slowly, Gai raised his head. "I think Master Jiraiya is confused. He seemed to think Rion is Anzu's daughter. And wanted to know if I'd be a good stepfather". This time, Hiruzen failed to hide his entertainment.
But the final straw came in the form of Shibi Aburame. Late last night, the man entered his office uninvited. "Lord Hokage?" He respectfully requested Hiruzen's attention.
Looking up from his paper, Hiruzen hummed at him; pipe in between his lips. Shibi did not reply right away. First, he took many deep breaths as he stared uncomfortably at the Hokage. "What is it, Shibi?" Hiruzen asked. Although, he already had an idea.
"Lord Hokage", Shibi spoke slowly. "Jiraiya-Sama just accused me of having relations with an underage girl". Every word sounded like it pained him.
Hiruzen started laughing; nearly dropping his pipe. The laughter started deep in his belly and soon engulfed his whole being. Hiruzen felt it in his hands, in his eyes, in his smile. Oh, when was the last time he had a good laugh like this? Jiraiya, the fool, never failed to perform. Hiruzen had to give him credit where credit was due.
The only thing keeping Hiruzen from breaking completely was the bewildered expression on the otherwise stoic Aburame clan head. "Forgive me, Shibi", Hiruzen wheezed as he tried to calm down. "Let me tell you what's been going on".