Through the Test?

"Swish!"

The paper door was yanked open, and Tsunade and Jiraiya, still carrying the lingering smell of gunpowder from their argument, strode over to Minamoto Takuya's small table in a few quick steps.

"Takuya!" Jiraiya spoke first. His signature white hair was somewhat disheveled beneath the lights, but his gaze was exceptionally sharp as he fixed his eyes on Minamoto Takuya, his voice booming.

"Listen, kid... don't you dare make me lose face!" His tone carried unquestionable expectations and a trace of barely perceptible tension.

"Hm?" Minamoto Takuya's brow rose ever so slightly, the question in his eyes instantly sharpening.

Jiraiya's sudden declaration left him briefly bewildered. What exactly had happened?

What had caused that seemingly sudden argument, and why had it led to him?

Almost at the same time, Tsunade's scrutinizing gaze fell upon him. Her cheeks were distinctly flushed from the alcohol, as though painted with fine rouge. Her usual arrogance had gained a hazy quality in her drunkenness, yet beneath that haze, her probing gaze remained sharp as a blade.

"Hmph!" A cold snort escaped her nose, carrying an authority that brooked no argument. "You want to become my disciple? Kid, it won't be as simple as you think! Come with me!"

Her tone was firm and decisive, as though announcing the beginning of a trial, carrying an oppressive force that allowed no refusal.

Become Princess Tsunade's disciple? Was a test about to begin?

Thoughts raced through Minamoto Takuya's mind.

The answer was obvious. No matter what lay ahead, he could not—and would not—refuse.

This was not simply a question of whether he wanted to. It was a challenge he had to face.

Without the slightest hesitation, he set down his cup and followed after them with Shizune.

Shizune's gaze moved back and forth between Lady Tsunade's