Kurama Murakumo

The next day, Jiraiya led Uchiha Mai to a residence on the outskirts of Konoha.

"We're here. This is the artist's home.

Just so you know, the owner may be a ninja, but being a ninja is purely a hobby for him. His real profession is painting, and he's among the very best in the entire Ninja World.

Don't go throwing around that Uchiha lordling attitude."

Before entering, Jiraiya repeatedly reminded him.

"Don't worry."

Uchiha Mai patted his chest and promised, "Being a ninja is just a side job for me too. My main profession is being a professional Texas Hold'em player, a Street Dance performer, and a singer.

I'm in the arts scene too. I have nothing but respect for revered seniors in the field."

"Oh? Then how do you explain this?" Jiraiya pointed at his slightly bruised eye socket. That little bastard had hit him hard.

"Lord Jiraiya is indeed highly esteemed, and his literary cultivation is also very profound," Uchiha Mai replied.

Just not morally esteemed.

"Hmph. Just watch yourself."

With a flick of his sleeve, Jiraiya led Uchiha Mai into the courtyard. The moment they entered, he called out loudly, "Brother Murakumo! Brother Murakumo, are you home?"

As one of Konoha's Sannin, Jiraiya's sensory abilities were exceptionally strong. He could tell how many people were inside without asking. Calling out was simply a sign of respect for the owner of the residence.

"I am, I am."

A few breaths later, a middle-aged man answered from within and emerged from the house. Seeing that the visitor was Jiraiya, he hurried over in delighted surprise.

"So it's Lord Jiraiya. It has been a long time, yet you remain as distinguished as ever."

"Haha."

Jiraiya laughed heartily, hooked an arm around the middle-aged man's, and said warmly, "Why are