In the Hokage's Office, Orochimaru was discussing the performances of several promising ninja in the Chunin Ninja Exams with Nara Shikaku.
"Obito, Kakashi, and Fūdo performed well. They can be promoted to Chunin. The others still need more time to train."
Orochimaru studied the list. "Asuma and Shiranui Genma performed well too, but they didn't show the leadership expected of them during team exercises.
They passed the earlier assessments on individual ability alone. It seems they still don't understand the difference between a Chunin and a Genin."
"You're right, Hokage. I'll send out this list at once."
Nara Shikaku left with the list, while Orochimaru remained in the office, deep in thought.
Atop a tall building in Konoha, Jiraiya stood overlooking the village.
A figure flashed into view. It was Fugaku.
"You seem to be enjoying yourself, Jiraiya. When do you plan to leave Konoha?"
Jiraiya gazed at the scenery around him, his eyes distant. "In a few days. Everything's going well in Konoha now, so I can leave without worrying."
"Tsunade is getting married next month. She hasn't said it, but I'm sure she wants you at her wedding and hopes to have your blessing.
After all, the two of you are the closest of friends."
Jiraiya froze for a moment, then chuckled. "Since when did you start worrying about Tsunade's marriage?"
"I just don't want you to spend your whole life hiding from it. Why not give her your blessing openly, then go on traveling the Shinobi World and gathering material?"
Jiraiya said, "Looks like you see things more clearly than I do."
"It's just harder to see clearly when you're the one caught up in it."
Jiraiya gave a rueful smile at Fugaku's words. "You're right. I'm too caught up in it. But seeing Tsunade happy is