[Konoha · Main gate · Early morning]
Naruto stood before Konoha's main gate with his pack on his back, the morning light casting a long shadow behind him. He wore a brand-new orange jacket, and the forehead protector tied around his brow gleamed in the sunlight. An excited smile spread across his face, his eyes full of anticipation for the journey ahead.
"Naruto, are you ready?" Jiraiya's voice came from behind him.
Naruto turned and saw Jiraiya strolling toward him, a cigarette between his lips and an enormous pack slung over his shoulder. He wore a red outer coat and wooden sandals, looking more like he was going on vacation than heading out on a dangerous mission.
"I'm ready, Jiraiya-sensei!" Naruto said excitedly. "Let's go!"
"What's the rush?" Jiraiya stepped up beside him and patted his shoulder. "It's a long journey. We've got plenty of time. Let me finish this cigarette first."
"But-"
"No buts," Jiraiya interrupted. "The first rule of any mission is to stay patient. If you can't even manage that, you might as well stay in the village."
Naruto pursed his lips, but obediently stood aside and waited for Jiraiya to finish his cigarette.
Jiraiya took a drag and slowly exhaled, letting the smoke drift away on the morning breeze. He gazed down the road, a complicated look flickering in his eyes.
"Naruto, do you know what our mission is this time?"
"Investigate the 'Sky' organization in the Land of Rice Fields and find Shennong," Naruto recited from the mission briefing.
"That's right." Jiraiya nodded. "But do you know why Minato sent the two of us?"
Naruto thought for a moment, then shook his head.
"Because this mission isn't just about investigating." Jiraiya looked at him. "More importantly, it's about helping you grow through actual combat. That