Chapter 372: Jiraiya’s Dilemma
As platters of barbecued meat and drinks were served, everyone began eating with gusto. Naturally, there was no need for formalities among old friends.
The adults exchanged cups, laughing and chatting, while the children ate heartily, occasionally sharing a few words. With a few cups of sake down, the conversations became livelier, filling the private room with a warm and harmonious atmosphere.
"Jiraiya, you didn't invite Maki, did you?" Tsunade suddenly asked, placing her empty sake cup on the table as if the thought had just struck her.
Everyone else had brought their families, but Jiraiya sat alone, his wife conspicuously absent.
"Oh, Maki..." Jiraiya began to explain, but before he could, his son spoke up.
"My mom beat up Dad the other day and went back to her village by herself," Naruto said casually, still chewing on a mouthful of roast meat. His nonchalant tone made it clear this wasn't a rare occurrence. He'd probably grown used to his parents' fiery dynamic. Based on past patterns, it wouldn't be long before his dad went to patch things up and bring her back.
Naruto's interruption made Jiraiya swallow the excuse he was about to offer. He glared at his son, watching that single mischievous eyebrow arch. You little brat, don't you know family secrets are supposed to stay in the family? And what's this about being beaten up? I was letting your mother win!
"Jiraiya, you're not going off to gather 'materials' again, are you?" Nawaki asked, a knowing grin tugging at his lips. He didn't spell it out for the children, but the adults caught his meaning immediately.
"Nonsense! I stopped going to those kinds of places a long time ago!" Jiraiya exclaimed, nearly choking on his drink. Why would you bring that up now? Though he had taken the young Nawaki on some questionable outings in the past, that was ancient history.
"Dad, what does collecting 'materials' mean?" Naruto asked, blinking wide, curious eyes. Clearly, he didn't understand the subtext.
Just from that innocent question, Jiraiya knew a long and awkward lecture was brewing. "Don't ask so many questions, kid. Just eat your meat," he snapped, glaring at his son. There was no way he could explain this—not now, not ever. The antics of his youth were already embarrassing enough without needing to relive them.