Jiraiya handed over the training method for the Shun-Goku Shadow Assassination Formation.
From now on, the village leadership would think twice before asking him for his other jutsu. Who would dare pressure a shinobi who voluntarily offered an S-rank jutsu without any conditions or demands in return?
Even Danzo would hesitate to openly coerce Jiraiya into handing over more jutsu.
"This is an incredible jutsu," Hiruzen Sarutobi said, his tone grave as he finished studying the training method. "I'll ensure it's sealed and won't be spread recklessly. Anyone wishing to learn it must obtain your consent first. Without your approval, it won't be accessible."
Hiruzen's expression made it clear he understood the immense power of this technique.
"Sensei, I was only able to create this jutsu thanks to the inspiration I got from your Shuriken Shadow Clone Technique," Jiraiya said, subtly flattering him.
"You've far surpassed me in talent," Hiruzen replied with a tone full of admiration. "It took me years to develop the Shuriken Shadow Clone Technique, but you created the Shun-Goku Shadow Assassination Formation in a fraction of that time—and its power is far beyond mine."
Jiraiya's ability to create not one but two S-rank jutsu at such a young age left Hiruzen deeply impressed. Even his own teacher, Tobirama Senju, couldn't match Jiraiya's talent for innovation.
"Since you're offering this jutsu to the village, we'll make sure you're properly rewarded. A significant amount of merit will be credited to your name—it won't go unnoticed," Hiruzen assured him. "I'll need to discuss with the council to determine the specifics, but rest assured, we won't let your contribution go unappreciated."
After Tobirama's death, no one else had voluntarily contributed an S-rank jutsu to the village. They'd have to carefully consider how to recognize Jiraiya's achievement.
Of course, the techniques they had confiscated from the Senju clan—many of them forbidden jutsu and S-rank techniques—came with no such rewards. Those were considered the property of the Second Hokage and thus the village, not the Senju clan. Since Tobirama was gone, there was no one left to compensate.
"Sensei, I'm not offering this jutsu for the sake of rewards," Jiraiya said seriously. "I only want to see the village grow stronger."
If word of his actions spread, Jiraiya knew it would change how others in the village viewed him. This would strengthen his support when the time came to vie for the position of Hokage.
"Once I'm back, I'll submit the training methods for the other techniques I've developed as well," Jiraiya added.
By offering his jutsu to the village, Jiraiya ensured his name would appear whenever others exchanged their merits for these training methods. Anyone who learned from his work would undoubtedly respect him, further boosting his reputation.
"Rest up for today since you just finished your mission yesterday. Start your work with the ANBU training squad tomorrow," Hiruzen said, dismissing him.
As Jiraiya left the office, Hiruzen called out after him, "And don't forget to spend some time with your sensei's wife when you're free."
Jiraiya stiffened for a moment before closing the door behind him.
What is with sensei trying to push this 'lonely housewife' narrative on me?
As he stepped out of the Hokage building, a Root member blocked his path.
"Jiraiya-sama, Lord Danzo requests your presence."
"Tell Danzo that my answer remains the same. I have no interest in joining Root," Jiraiya said coldly, shoving past the operative without any pretense of politeness.
"Defying Lord Danzo's orders won't end well for you," the operative said icily.
"Is that a threat?" Jiraiya's aura turned murderous, his eyes sharp and cold. "If we were outside the village right now, you'd already be a corpse. If you're so eager to die, keep following your master's orders."
The Root member shivered under Jiraiya's gaze, retreating silently without another word.
As Jiraiya walked home, he ran into Sakumo Hatake.
"Jiraiya, if you're free today, let's spar again," Sakumo suggested.
"Sure," Jiraiya replied with a nod.
After their last mission together, Jiraiya and Sakumo had sparred several times. Each session had brought noticeable improvement to both of their swordsmanship.
This time, they headed to Sakumo's house, which was better equipped for training since Sakumo specialized in kenjutsu.
"It's been a while since we've trained together," Sakumo said, visibly excited. "After spending so much time in Mount Myōboku, your swordsmanship must've improved significantly. I'm looking forward to this sparring session."
Sakumo's skill with a blade was exceptional. Jiraiya was one of the few people who could match him, making their sparring sessions truly beneficial. Sparring with other sword-wielding shinobi was usually one-sided and offered Sakumo little opportunity for growth.
"Just don't get overwhelmed," Jiraiya joked.
"Shirayuki! Bring us some tea!" Sakumo called out as they stepped inside.
"Your sister is home?" Jiraiya asked.
"She just returned from her mission two days ago," Sakumo replied.
Moments later, a tall, graceful woman emerged. She had shoulder-length hair, sharp eyes, and fair skin. Her figure was well-proportioned, her features striking, and she appeared to be around Jiraiya's age.
Sakumo, being handsome himself, clearly had good genes, and his sister was no exception.
"Shirayuki, this is Jiraiya, one of the Hokage's students," Sakumo introduced. "He's already a jōnin and a very skilled shinobi. His kenjutsu is exceptional too, so if you ever need advice, feel free to ask him."
"So, you're Jiraiya?" Shirayuki said, her eyes lighting up with curiosity. "I've heard about you from my teammates. You're famous in the village—for being a pervert who likes to spy on the women's bathhouse!"
Her blunt words made Jiraiya freeze in embarrassment.
Why can't people just let that incident go? It's ruining my reputation!
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Pls Drop some Power Stones
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