naruto · sannin · childhood · training arc · tsunade · jiraiya · orochimaru · hiruzen sarutobi · rivalry · dark humor
The midday sun baked the training grounds, drawing sweat and shortening tempers. Jiraiya's smirk was a provocation as he eyed Tsunade. 'You pack a mean punch, but you're missing something up top, aren't you?' Tsunade's face flushed with rage. 'You disgusting pervert! I'd take Orochimaru's company over yours in a heartbeat!' Orochimaru, who had been observing quietly, tilted his head. 'An intriguing preference,' he murmured, his voice dry. Hiruzen moved forward, his presence a calming weight. 'That's enough. Focus on the exercise, not each other.'