Over the next few days,
Gua went to school as usual.
Orochimaru studied science and researched Impure World Reincarnation.
Jiraiya wrestled with whether he should visit the Land of Rain again.
Tsunade set up a gambling operation in Konoha, only for the Third Generation to catch her red-handed and kick her out.
The Third Generation was truly troubled. Not one of his three students gave him any peace. Out of sight, out of mind-ideally, Jiraiya would hurry up and get lost too.
Orochimaru?
He couldn't bear to send Orochimaru away.
Orochimaru might burn through money, but... he liked him.
The Third Generation didn't understand science, but he was like an aging father facing his young child. I might not understand it, but if you want to do it, I'll support you.
There was one other thing.
The Hyuga Clan had suddenly come to the Hokage Office and placed six million in cash on his desk.
At the time, the Third Generation had given Hiashi a sidelong look.
You think a mere six million is enough of a gift for me, the Hokage?
Hiashi hurriedly explained where the six million had come from. The Hyuga Clan had given it to Gua as thanks, but Gua had refused it and sent the money back to them through the Uchiha...
After hearing Hiashi's explanation,
the Third Generation narrowed his eyes and kept smoking.
Unmoved by wealth.
Unbowed by force.
This child...
Really was...
Tsk, tsk...
The Third Generation's fondness for Gua rose another notch. He was different from Tsunade. She liked fiery, lively children, while he preferred quiet ones.
Like Kakashi, Orochimaru, and Gua.
Even Minato had never been loud and boisterous back then.
"I understand."
The Third Generation accepted the six million and saw Hiashi off.
After Hiashi left, the Third Generation