On the way back, Jiraiya remained silent.
Following behind him, Kyohiko sighed inwardly. The system hadn't responded—
Though he'd expected as much.
Yahiko and the others were developing their strength to the south, avoiding the influence of the Land of Rain and the Land of Earth while lying low and building up their power. In the short term, they offered no benefit to Konoha.
But.
There was no doubt their attitude would lean toward Konoha.
If war broke out with Sunagakure in the future, Yahiko's faction, hiding and growing in the Land of Rivers, might become an ally and source of intelligence for Konoha.
As for rewards...
He'd probably only get a real response and reward once Yahiko put his plans into action and took concrete measures.
This was a long-term investment.
It was just a casual move, and for now, it wouldn't cost him much.
Besides.
Whether Nagato and the others could stay in the Land of Rivers for long was still uncertain—
Would Madara really let them off that easily?
Hard to say.
As they neared Yugakure, Jiraiya broke the silence.
"Kyohiko."
"Don't worry, Teacher. I'll keep it secret."
Kyohiko replied.
Jiraiya gave a wry laugh and shook his head. "That's not what I meant."
"Promise me you'll always keep yourself safe. You're important to me, to Tsunade, and to Konoha!"
Jiraiya was serious.
Compared to Minato and Nagato, he now felt that Kyohiko might be the "Child of Prophecy" he'd been waiting for.
As for Tsunade...
Jiraiya thought that Tsunade might currently be transferring some of her emotions and hopes to Kyohiko. Lately, she'd clearly been in better spirits in Konoha.
If Kyohiko died, Jiraiya could imagine how wild Tsunade would become. He wouldn't be able to forgive himself, either.
"Teacher, don't say anything unlucky. It'll affect