Chapter 65: Narrowing Your Path So Young

The techniques recorded on these scrolls weren't quite at the S-rank level yet, but they far surpassed A-rank in terms of power, teetering on the edge between the two.

Some of these jutsu, when used in tandem with the toads of Mount Myoboku, could even achieve S-rank potency. Among them was a summoning jutsu that called forth a massive toad from Mount Myoboku to flatten the enemy.

The power of this technique depended entirely on the size and durability of the summoned toad. The larger and tougher the toad, the greater the destruction.

Another was the Toad Mouth Bind, a defensive and entrapment jutsu. This technique summoned the stomach of a giant toad from Mount Myoboku, enveloping the enemy in an almost unbreakable fleshy prison. The walls of the stomach could regenerate endlessly, eventually swallowing the target whole and corroding them with potent acid.

In the original story, Jiraiya had used this jutsu to trap Uchiha Itachi and Hoshigaki Kisame. However, before the technique could fully activate, Itachi burned a hole in the stomach walls using Amaterasu, allowing both him and Kisame to escape from Konohagakure.

Yet, what truly intrigued Jiraiya wasn't these jutsu but the Sage Techniques of Mount Myoboku. Especially the techniques that required perfect synchronization with Fukasaku and Shima.

Unfortunately, the scrolls contained no mention of Sage Techniques. Jiraiya carefully stored the scrolls away, fully intending to make good use of them. He saw no reason to hold back with the toads, especially after receiving these gifts.

"Young one, these scrolls are just a token of our goodwill," Shima said, breaking the silence. "They're a gift for our first meeting. Once you've mastered all these techniques, we'll teach you even stronger jutsu—Sage Techniques, to be precise."

"Sage Techniques?" Jiraiya feigned curiosity, even though he was already well aware of what they entailed. Still, he played along, knowing Fukasaku and Shima would feel slighted if he didn't appear intrigued.

"Beyond chakra, there exists another energy—the natural energy of the world," Fukasaku explained.

"By drawing this energy into your body and merging it with your chakra, you can unleash Sage Techniques."

Jiraiya nodded but remained cautious. "Why are you helping me? What's in it for you?"

Fukasaku sighed, shaking his head.

"After all this, you still doubt our intentions? We have no ill will toward you. We brought you to Mount Myoboku because there's an important task awaiting you. Once you've mastered these jutsu and learned Sage Techniques, we'll explain everything."

"But for now," Shima interjected, "focus on training. Practice the jutsu from the scrolls, and we'll guide you. With our help, you'll learn them quickly."

"Having the guidance of the two great sages of Mount Myoboku is a privilege few ever receive," Fukasaku added with a smirk. "You should feel lucky, kid."

"Before I begin training, can I form summoning contracts with some toads?" Jiraiya asked casually, ignoring Fukasaku's bragging. He wasn't particularly awed by their titles. With his talent, he was confident he could master the jutsu on his own, even without their help.

Fukasaku frowned, sensing his attempt to impress Jiraiya had fallen flat.

"Shima," he muttered, "is my approach not effective enough?"

"Old man, let's let Gamabunta, Gamaken, and Gamahiro decide. They've grown quite strong," Shima said thoughtfully.

Fukasaku sighed.

"Gamahiro and Gamaken will probably agree without much fuss. But Gamabunta… he's spoiled and temperamental. Getting him to accept this kid will be a challenge."

"Don't blame me for Gamabunta's attitude! You're just as responsible!" Shima snapped, kicking Fukasaku, who wisely kept quiet after that.

Turning to Jiraiya, Shima explained, "I have three sons. Each is as strong as a jonin-level shinobi. Whether or not they agree to a contract depends on your ability."

"I'm confident I can convince them," Jiraiya replied. "Take me to them, Shima-sama."

Shima led Jiraiya to a massive pond, where Gamahiro, Gamaken, and Gamabunta lounged by the water's edge, chatting. Each of them towered over Jiraiya, their immense size dwarfing him completely.

Fukasaku introduced Jiraiya to the three brothers.

"Father, I may not be very strong, but I'll do my best to be a worthy summoning partner," Gamaken said, bowing his head.

"Please take care of me," he added humbly. Among the three, Gamaken was the most gentle and reliable, with exceptional offensive and defensive capabilities.

"I agree as well," Gamahiro said simply, his emerald-green body gleaming in the sunlight. Twin blades strapped to his back hinted at his mastery of kenjutsu. Though reserved, he didn't hesitate to pledge his support.

Gamabunta, however, snorted disdainfully.

"What makes this brat worthy of being my summoner? I won't form a contract with a weakling."

Unfazed, Jiraiya met Gamabunta's gaze. "Then tell me—what do I need to do to earn your respect?"

Gamabunta's rejection didn't surprise him. If the toad boss wanted to narrow his path, Jiraiya was more than willing to broaden it—with his fists, if necessary.

Looking up at the massive Gamabunta, Jiraiya felt no pressure. If the toad boss wanted to challenge him, he was ready to prove himself.

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Pls Drop some Power Stones

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