Time passed, and Tokiju successfully finished the last dish.
Looking at the table laden with delicious food, Tokiju nodded in satisfaction.
After carrying all the dishes out, Tokiju called toward the living room, "Hey! You guys out there, dinner's ready!"
Jiraiya, who had been waiting impatiently, immediately came running over.
"Heh heh, finally! I'm starving."
Jiraiya chuckled. He'd smelled the food from the living room and had already snuck over to sample it more than once.
If Tsunade hadn't finally lost patience and punched him in the head, half the food on the table might have been gone before dinner even started.
Orochimaru, on the other hand, was very polite and stayed by Tsunade's side as she played host.
Once everyone was seated, Tokiju and Uchiha Hikari poured drinks for them, both alcoholic and nonalcoholic.
The group around the table included a child, a pregnant woman, a gambler, a lecher, and a complete pervert.
Looking at this collection of people, each with their own peculiar talents, Tokiju couldn't help wondering if his social circle was a little strange.
Once everyone had taken their seats, Tokiju first gave his older sister a look, hoping the host would say a few words to kick things off.
But Tsunade didn't notice. She simply drank and ate as if no one else were there.
Seeing this, Tokiju could only pick up his drink, stand, and say, "Everyone, the new year is almost here. I'd like to wish you all a happy new year! Cheers!"
At that, everyone raised their glasses. Those without alcohol lifted their drinks, too, and they all called out, "Happy New Year! Cheers!"
As they drained their glasses, the mood around the table grew cheerful and relaxed.
Jiraiya ate with gusto, living up to his reputation as a hearty soul.
Orochimaru