Afterward, he chuckled to himself and put the thought aside. Never mind. This kind of novel isn't right for me. Besides, haven't I already decided on the theme for my next book?
Tale of the Gallant. I'll gather some material and get started.
Jiraiya chuckled. "It's great to be young."
Minato and Kushina both turned to look at Jiraiya, unsure what he meant. "Lord Jiraiya, you're not old either. You're even a few years younger than my Big Brother."
At that, the smile on Jiraiya's face grew brighter. "Kids wouldn't understand. We'll talk about it when you're a little older."
The two scratched their heads and exchanged a glance. "What a weird adult. Will we be like that when we grow up?"
Kushina shook her head. "Who knows?"
Jiraiya had naturally heard every word they'd muttered, but he suddenly laughed heartily.
"Ah, that was a satisfying meal. Everyone, rest a little longer, then we'll be on our way."
"Okay!"
All the ninja in the team answered in unison. Getting a lunch break at all was already pretty good. The mission came first, so they couldn't rest for too long.
By then, Yahiko and Konan had just finished eating. Yahiko drew the Flowing Water Sword his master had given him and gently wiped it with his clothes.
The blade gleamed. The sky was especially clear just then, and the sunlight made the sword shine even more brightly.
"On this trip to Rain Province, I'm going to sharpen my swordsmanship and give my master a huge surprise."
Seeing Yahiko so full of enthusiasm, Konan cheered him on. Then she silently made a vow of her own. I have to improve this time too. I can't let Yahiko surpass me!
Konan still remembered the wish she'd made on the day she became Torifu's