Jiraiya walked quietly through a chaotic space, watching light and shadow intersect and twist around each other.
Where was I again? Why can't I remember? Why am I so tired?
He wondered in mild confusion, then shook his head, casting the stray thoughts from his mind.
-I can't stop. I have to keep moving forward.
The path beneath his feet was like a mire, tugging at his legs and keeping him from advancing. Every step demanded a struggle with all the strength he could muster.
"This is so exhausting..."
"Why do I have to keep going, anyway?"
"Let's just lie down! I'm so, so tired! Let's rest for a while!"
"We haven't peeked at any pretty girls bathing in ages. Come on, let's go!"
A short figure appeared before him, taking the form of a young Jiraiya. He stood crookedly, utterly languid, complaints spilling endlessly from his mouth.
Jiraiya looked at him, his calm gaze unwavering, then kicked straight through him, scattering the apparition.
He straightened his back and kept moving.
"Jiraiya, our wedding is about to begin."
Tsunade appeared before him, her face radiant with joy. Dressed in a pure white wedding gown, she was beautiful and captivating, her eyes bright and intent, with room for no one but him.
Dan Katō and Orochimaru stood nearby, scattering flowers from baskets. Pink petals drifted down in a scene he had once imagined.
"Stay. I've actually liked you all along, you know?"
Tsunade reached toward him, a petal resting on her pale fingertips.
Jiraiya looked at her with wonder and admiration in his eyes.
If Tsunade wore a wedding gown, she would surely look like this. No, Tsunade would be even more beautiful than this imitation.
Jiraiya smiled, then swept out an arm and dispersed her. "Fake."
The three figures vanished