Chapter 134 - 29: The Opening Ceremony of the Five Nations Conference
"Where should I go now?"
Jiraiya stood at a crossroads, arms crossed and rubbing his chin as he pondered deeply.
For three years, he had been training the three young shinobi in the Land of Rain. Now, the trio—Yahiko, Nagato, and Konan—could successfully defeat one of his shadow clones. Each of them had developed the ability to protect themselves, and Jiraiya knew it was time for him to leave.
On the rain-soaked lake, Yahiko, Nagato, and Konan cried uncontrollably. Jiraiya, too, felt a deep sorrow in his heart. After three years of living together day and night, how could they not have formed countless bonds? But he understood that if he continued to protect them, they would never truly grow. So, he left them with these words:
"You now have the ability to protect yourselves. It's time for me to leave. Move forward with determination! If you want to change this country, it will have to be your own efforts."
With that, he resolutely turned and walked away without looking back.
By all rights, he should be returning to Konoha Village now. However, he didn't feel like going back just yet. Although these past three years with the children had been joyful, they had also been a test of restraint for his pervy old self. He decided to relax first.
After leaving the Land of Rain, he found a bathhouse and soaked in a hot bath. He had planned to sneak into the mixed baths for some "sightseeing," only to find that the bathhouse was filled with elderly men and women. This left Jiraiya utterly disheartened.
After his bath, he changed into fresh clothes and headed straight for the largest entertainment district in the area. However, he found it nearly deserted—no pretty ladies, only a janitor cleaning the restroom.
"Hey, hey, hey! What kind of service is this? Are you trying to insult me? Do you think I can't afford to pay?"
Jiraiya complained to the waiter, clearly displeased.