Chapter 56: Then Let’s Try

Since Isamu didn't believe in his abilities, Jiraiya had no choice but to make him believe.

Though Isamu was a skilled jonin of elite caliber, Jiraiya felt no fear. With his current strength, even if he couldn't defeat Isamu outright, he was certain he wouldn't lose.

Moreover, if he wanted to gain the Senju Clan's approval, he needed to demonstrate his strength. The Senju Clan, once a top family in Konoha, wouldn't agree to Tsunade being with someone without solid credentials—especially since the clan had declined over the years.

After all, he was just a ninja of common origins, with no backing to speak of in Konoha. He couldn't offer the Senju Clan any real support. Being the Hokage's apprentice didn't help his case either, as the Hokage's faction was actively suppressing the Senju.

If Jiraiya wanted to be with Tsunade, he needed to prove his talent and strength, showing the clan he had the power to help them rise again.

The Senju Clan, like any other noble clan, prioritized alliances and benefits—especially now, when they desperately needed strong allies.

"I hope your strength matches your boldness," Isamu said with a faint smile, his eyes showing a glimmer of approval. Jiraiya's straightforward and decisive demeanor left a good impression.

"Before we begin, there's something you need to understand," Isamu continued, his tone turning serious. "If your strength doesn't satisfy me, you'll stay away from Tsunade. Don't cross the line, or the Senju Clan won't let it slide."

"I know Tsunade has feelings for you. To make her like you is no small feat, and in that regard, I'll admit, I'm impressed. I've never once had the honor of eating a breakfast she prepared, but she went out of her way to make one for you this morning. You're the first."

A hint of jealousy flashed across Isamu's face.

"But you should understand—Tsunade is a member of the Senju Clan. She's not like the average civilian ninja. She bears the responsibility of protecting and reviving the clan."

Isamu's expression grew heavy as he spoke.

When Tsunade had returned home the previous day, she had specifically introduced Jiraiya, praising him in every other sentence. Her affection for him was written all over her face.

As her older brother, Isamu had been happy to see his sister finding someone she liked, even going so far as to bring him home. But the current state of the Senju Clan left little room for romantic freedom.

In that regard, Isamu felt he owed Tsunade.

He could only hope Jiraiya possessed the strength to earn the Senju Clan's recognition. If so, Tsunade wouldn't have to endure the pain of being forced to leave him behind.

"There isn't a ninja among Konoha's clans in our generation who surpasses me in talent or strength," Jiraiya replied confidently. "Give me time, and I'll help the Senju Clan out of its troubles."

He understood exactly what Isamu meant.

The Senju Clan was considering marrying Tsunade into a major ninja clan to secure their standing in Konoha. But Jiraiya knew from the original timeline that this wouldn't work.

After the Second Shinobi War, most of the Senju Clan perished, leaving Tsunade as the sole survivor. Their plans for political alliances had ultimately failed. Even if the Senju managed to find an influential clan to ally with, it wouldn't solve their issues.

Neither the Hokage faction nor the other clans wanted the Senju Clan to rise again, as that would mean competing for resources and influence.

Still, with their current predicament, the Senju Clan seemed to have no other options.

"I like your confidence," Isamu said. "Don't disappoint me, though. I don't want to see my sister heartbroken. If your strength convinces me, I'll support you and Tsunade, no matter what the elders might say."

"Where should we spar?" Jiraiya asked.

"The training ground," Isamu replied. "I'll have some of the important members of the clan watch. Whether you can win Tsunade's hand is up to you."

"Then I'll wait for you at the training ground." Jiraiya nodded and left the room.

...

"How did it go?" Tsunade asked anxiously as she waited outside.

"We got along fine. Your brother wants to test my strength, so we'll be sparring at the training ground soon," Jiraiya said with a reassuring smile. "Don't worry—I'll make sure your clan supports us."

"Just be careful," Tsunade said, her concern evident. "My brother's Water Release techniques are no joke. He's mastered many of our grandfather's techniques and even learned some forbidden jutsu."

Though Jiraiya could easily defeat an average jonin, her brother was far from ordinary. He'd been an elite jonin for years.

"Don't worry about me. If anything, you should worry about your brother. I might end up hurting him by accident," Jiraiya joked with a grin.

"If you could hurt him, that'd be great! He used to bully me all the time when we were kids."

"Well then, for your sake, I'll make sure to give your brother a good lesson. Consider it a favor for my future brother-in-law," Jiraiya said as they headed toward the training ground.

When they arrived, they saw Nawaki practicing ninjutsu with intense focus.

Nawaki had good talent and worked hard, but in the original timeline, he tragically died during the Second Shinobi War, with even his organs stolen. If he had survived, he might have truly revived the Senju Clan.

"Sister, do you like that guy?" Nawaki asked as he stared at Jiraiya, his sharp eyes scrutinizing him.

Tsunade's feelings were too obvious. Her gaze toward Jiraiya was filled with affection, and even a three-year-old could see it.

"If you do, you're in trouble," Nawaki added, his expression serious. "My sister has a terrible temper and gets mad all the time. She's also super strong. If you marry her, you'll probably be getting punched every day."

"Nawaki!" Tsunade snapped, smacking him on the head.

"See?" Nawaki said, clutching his head in pain. "That's what I'm talking about!"

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Pls Drop some Power Stones

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