CH - 38 Acting!

"Is this movie similar to 'Gambling Shadow'? If it is, then I apologize. However, I must clarify that I won't participate in anything resembling a gambling movie," Jiraiya asserted his stance, expressing his reluctance to be associated with a similar theme.

"Please don't believe in rumors or spread them! If there are any similarities, it's purely coincidental! But rest assured, this script is tailored specifically for you and your comrades. It tells the story of the friendship among the three ninjas of Konoha who trained together, drifted apart after graduating, and reunited in Kusagakure, reminiscing about their bonds," Akihiko reassured Jiraiya, emphasizing that the movie was completely distinct from the previous one.

"Drifted apart... and bonds? It sounds like a story filled with deep connections. 'Three Sannin in Kusagakure' seems quite intriguing. But what about this 'Three Sannin Mystery Box'?" Jiraiya acknowledged his curiosity about the concept but sought clarification regarding the "Three Sannin Mystery Box."

"The mystery box is simply a promotional tool! After all, you, who brought an end to the turmoil in the Land of Rain and earned the title of the Sannin, have gained significant fame in the ninja world!" Akihiko explained that the movie primarily aimed to promote Jiraiya's current popularity.

"I see," Jiraiya sought confirmation, wanting to ensure that the movie was not exploiting his reputation for personal gain.

"Of course! We hold our own people in high regard and value trust and integrity. If this were truly about money, I would have demanded compensation from you. Isn't that right?" Akihiko emphasized their trustworthiness, stating that he would have asked for compensation if his intentions were purely driven by financial motives.

"Well, yes!" Jiraiya agreed, accepting Akihiko's explanation and believing that the movie had honorable intentions.

"So, what is troubling you? If you have any concerns, feel free to voice them," Akihiko encouraged Jiraiya to express any remaining reservations he might have.

"Regarding Orochimaru and Tsunade..." Jiraiya hesitated for a moment, concerned about the involvement of his teammates, Orochimaru and Tsunade, in the movie.

"There is a romantic subplot involving them, with the female lead falling in love with one of the male leads..." Akihiko revealed the details, hoping to entice Jiraiya with this additional aspect of the movie.

"I'll sign!" Jiraiya's expression suddenly changed, and he responded with determination, indicating his willingness to proceed.

"What about Orochimaru and Tsunade..." Akihiko feigned hesitation, knowing that Jiraiya had already taken the bait.

"Don't worry! We share a bond of brotherhood and friendship. I will handle this matter delicately, and they won't be upset," Jiraiya reassured Akihiko, expressing his confidence in managing the situation with Orochimaru and Tsunade.

"Thank you, Jiraiya, for contributing to the development of Kusagakure," Akihiko expressed his gratitude, appreciating Jiraiya's cooperation in furthering the progress of Kusagakure.

Finally, as he watched Jiraiya leave in a positive mood and held the signed contract in his hand, Akihiko smiled with satisfaction.

"Done!" Akihiko exclaimed, clenching his fist with a sense of accomplishment. Although only Jiraiya had signed and not Orochimaru and Tsunade, he believed it wouldn't be an issue. Jiraiya, being a dependable friend, would handle any potential issues that might arise.

"If any problems arise, he can rely on his best friend. It has nothing to do with Kusagakure. Kusagakure has a contract!" Akihiko thought to himself, preparing to support Jiraiya if Orochimaru and Tsunade sought explanations in the future.

Akihiko turned to Kana beside him and said, "Now... we can start assembling the production crew and preparing the Mystery boxes."

Then, he seemed to remember something else. "Oh, right, release Mubuki."

….

Mubuki, who had just stepped out of the prison gate, sighed with a mix of emotions as he examined the task in his hand. Recalling how the messenger addressed him as "Consultant Mubuki," he couldn't help but wonder why they only referred to him as a consultant when they needed something.

"Why do they call me 'Mubuki-sama' when they need something and simply 'Mubuki' when they don't?" Mubuki muttered to himself, feeling slightly frustrated. He had also noticed the leader's behavior and couldn't shake off the feeling that there was more to it.

"Hmph! The leader is quite intriguing! Putting up a facade of reluctance in inviting Master Ekinu, but now I see through it. I almost fell for their act!" Mubuki coldly snorted, realizing that the leader must be a fan of Master Ekinu, just like him. After all, who could possibly dislike Master Ekinu? They were on the same wavelength.

In fact, it would be more accurate to say that when no one else even knew who Master Ekinu was, the leader had gifted Mubuki with a precious signed book. This gesture led Mubuki to believe that the leader was more than just an ordinary fan.

Mubuki narrowed his eyes in thought. "It seems like the leader might... have a connection to Master Ekinu?!" Perhaps he should inquire about it later. But for now, he needed to focus on completing the mission at hand, finalizing the transaction with the Leaf Ninja, and then approaching the leader about Master Ekinu.

Lowering his head once again, Mubuki carefully examined the document in his hand and murmured, "What kind of scheme is the leader plotting now? Wanting to acquire the copyrights of ninjas from various villages?" As he continued reading and grasped the concept of copyright, his confusion deepened.

No wonder the leader had attained such a position. It was always a challenge to comprehend his profound thoughts. And yet, he still claimed not to be a Kusagakure ninja like the others. Such modesty! Mubuki couldn't help but acknowledge that their enigmatic leader was likely the most exceptional ninja in Kusagakure.

….

"Achoo! Achoo!" Akihiko rubbed his nose and furrowed his brows, muttering under his breath, "No need to guess, it must be that despicable Mubuki cursing at me."

Who else would dare curse at him? After all, he is the respected leader of Kusagakure, a Grass Ninja who even earned recognition from one of the Legendary Sannin, Jiraiya the Toad Sage, as a "good person."

For no apparent reason... who could have the audacity to curse at him? "I'll settle the score with him once I return!" Akihiko vowed to himself, making a mental note. Raising his head, he glanced at the production team of "Three Sannin in Kusagakure" in front of him. Yes, the movie title had changed. He no longer had to fear using the Sannin name since he had obtained their permission himself.

At this moment, everything was ready. All the staff members were present, including the three young actors portraying the younger versions of the Leaf Ninja. As the story began at the Ninja Academy, it was crucial to include the young versions of the Three Ninjas from Konoha.

However, in the previous script that he initially wrote, there was no need to incorporate a female character. But now, with the original Three Sannin, some minor modifications are necessary to include a female character and develop a romantic subplot. Consequently, one of the male characters must be paired with the female character.

However...

"Cut!" Akihiko gazed at Jiraiya in astonishment, taken aback by the lascivious expression on his face as he tilted his head. "How many times must I remind you? You should be apprehensive about the kiss, not wearing a lewd expression with closed eyes and a tilted head. Show reluctance, not anticipation!"

"Director Akihiko, I don't think the story should unfold like this," Jiraiya retorted righteously. "As a Legendary ninja, if a woman comes to kiss me, do you think I would back down? Would you back down if it were you?"

Akihiko was momentarily speechless, realizing that Jiraiya had a valid point. He quickly regained his composure, looking at Jiraiya with a wry smile and shaking his head. "Shall we continue? Remember, follow the script!"

Filming this script wasn't particularly difficult, but incorporating ninja elements made it a bit more challenging. Nonetheless, everything else had gone smoothly. After Akihiko announced to proceed, all the actors took their positions.

Jiraiya let out a sigh, shook his head, and muttered, "Since I don't know when I'll see Tsunade again, she won't be able to beat me up. Hehe~"

Truly, he could never have imagined before that he would also be portraying the roles of Tsunade and Orochimaru. It was a new experience for him. Who would have thought? But Akihiko said that Jiraiya, being the one who knew both characters best, was the most suitable candidate. Although playing a female role felt peculiar, especially in certain parts of the body, he saw it as a sacrifice to become a role model for future generations.

Moreover, Akihiko's idea of using the movie to convey the significance of the Sannin name and inspire future generations was ingenious. It was no wonder he was a Grass Ninja, always brimming with creative ideas.

At that moment, Jiraiya's gaze caught the attention of the red-haired young man among the curious child actors nearby. He briefly fell into a contemplative silence before snapping back to reality, sighing, and gazing at the Land of Grass sky. "It's time to continue the journey."

"Jiraiya! What are you still doing? Everyone is waiting for you! Hurry up!" Akihiko's voice broke his train of thought.

"I'm coming! I'm coming!" Jiraiya replied as he resumed his performance. He was genuinely excited to see the movie in which he had a role. A thought crossed his mind, "I wonder what expression Tsunade will have when she sees it?"

….

Time flew by, and the filming of the new movie in Kusagakure concluded successfully. It didn't take long for Akihiko to receive a letter from Mubuki, indicating the completion of the task.

{Task Completed}

The results exceeded expectations. The fame and renown of the First and Second Hokage of Konoha were so widespread that they were well-known throughout the ninja world. Therefore, Konoha had no objections to the acquisition of copyrights as long as they were not used for deliberate defamation. Even the procurement of the rights to Uchiha Madara from the Uchiha Clan, which Akihiko had entrusted to Mubuki, turned out to be a triumph.

Moreover, since Uchiha Madara had betrayed the Uchiha Clan, they displayed no concerns regarding the utilization of his image as long as it did not tarnish their reputation. As a result, the expenses incurred were minimal.

"Perhaps... the copyright fee for Madara should be given to Madara himself?" Akihiko contemplated, lowering his head and glancing at the floor as he muttered to himself. Then, he raised his head and shifted his gaze towards the attentive high-ranking officials of Kusagakure who were observing him.

With the movie completed and the mystery box issue resolved, it was time to set the plan into motion. Akihiko's tone grew resolute as he declared, "It's time to begin!"

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