Promotions

When the new peace agreement was finalized, Konoha's troops began their withdrawal in batches. The atmosphere in the camp was filled with joy. Surviving the battlefield was a reason for celebration for any ninja, and this time, thanks to Kazuya's overwhelming performance, Konoha's casualties were minimal. 

However, the Fire Daimyo's office still demanded significant reparations from the Frost Country's Daimyo, officially termed as a "Homeland Defense Support Fund." Konoha's intervention was framed as a righteous act to help the Frost Country resist the aggression of Cloud Shinobi Village, embodying the Will of Fire.

As Konoha's forces retreated from Frost Country, both the Daimyo's mansion and the ninjas of Frost Hidden Village felt immense relief. The "god of plague"—or rather, Konoha's hero—was finally leaving. They hoped never to see him again.

On the way back, Kazuya made a detour to Rose Street in the Land of Hot Water. Tsunade had been instrumental in the battle, and he felt a need to express his gratitude. Upon arriving, he saw Shizune, Tsunade's assistant, exiting a loan company with her pet pig, Tonton, and several boxes of money, clearly obtained through another loan.

Kazuya waited and watched as Tsunade stormed out of the hotel, ignoring Shizune's protests, heading straight to the biggest casino on Rose Street. Kazuya sighed, feeling a mix of amusement and concern. Tsunade's gambling habits were infamous, but he felt a responsibility to help her, even if it meant beating her at her own game.

Kazuya followed her into the casino, a bustling, noisy place. He took his place at the table opposite Tsunade, placing his chips down. 

"I bet small!" he declared.

Tsunade's eyes flared with recognition and anger. "You again! How dare you show your face here!"

She slammed her fist on the table, the force nearly cracking the wood. Kazuya remained unfazed, meeting her challenge with a smirk. 

"Scared, Tsunade? If you have the guts, place your bet," he taunted.

The game commenced, and Kazuya's luck—or rather, his skill—held strong. Bet after bet, he won, Tsunade growing more frustrated and desperate with each loss.

"You say I dare not?" Tsunade shouted, her anger boiling over. "I swear I'll win it all back!"

"Sure, give it your best shot," Kazuya replied coolly.

After half an hour, Tsunade had lost twelve rounds in a row. The gamblers around them were amazed, whispering about Kazuya's apparent mastery of gambling.

"Unbelievable! He's like a god of gamblers!"

"I've never seen anything like it!"

Kazuya swept his winnings into his arms, grinning at Tsunade. "Thanks, Tsunade. Better luck next time."

Tsunade's fists clenched, her knuckles white with tension. Shizune quickly intervened, urging her not to make a scene.

"Master Tsunade, please! If you cause a fight, no casino will let you in again!"

With great effort, Tsunade restrained herself, watching Kazuya leave with her money.

In a secluded alley, Kazuya dropped his Transformation Technique, feeling the weight of the money. It was his way of showing gratitude to Tsunade, even if it was unconventional.

A few days later, Kazuya returned to Konoha. The familiar village and the sight of Hokage Rock brought a sense of nostalgia. He had reached a significant milestone in his journey.

Back in the village, Kazuya went through the usual post-mission formalities. He checked in with Anbu, filed his mission report, and received praise from the Third Hokage. Under the admiring gazes of his peers, he felt a sense of accomplishment. Sarutobi Hiruzen, in a generous gesture, granted Kazuya access to the Book of Seals, though Kazuya selected only a single technique—Darkness Technique—more out of formality than necessity.

Kazuya's real reward was his promotion to Captain of Anbu. Sarutobi Hiruzen handed him the appointment documents with a look of trust. The position of Anbu Captain was prestigious, ranking among the top positions in Konoha, just below the village elders and the head of the Jōnin class. Kazuya had truly entered the core of Konoha's power structure.

Lying on his sofa at home, Kazuya reveled in his new status, enjoying a rare moment of relaxation. 

As dusk settled, a knock on the door interrupted his peace. Kazuya opened it to find an unexpected visitor standing before him.