Queen of Beauty and Gambling

Kazuya watched as Uzuki Yugao ran off and sighed silently. His emotional intelligence wasn't lacking, and he could understand her feelings. However, understanding didn't always equate to action. 

After exchanging greetings with the gatekeeper ninjas, Kazuya left Konoha Village. The ninjas guarding the gate were not to be underestimated. Even in the original plot, Pain had to use an elaborate strategy to enter Konoha Village. Their competence was clear.

Soon, Kazuya set off for the Land of Hot Water to find Tsunade. He looked forward to it. Although Tsunade wasn't as popular as some other characters in various stories, she was a significant figure in the Naruto world. More importantly, he was interested in her bloodline—the Senju of the Forest, known for their vast chakra reserves due to Asura's inheritance.

The journey from Konoha to the Land of Hot Water took about three days, though Kazuya could make it in two if he hurried. However, he chose a leisurely pace, appreciating the scenery of the Land of Fire. The landscape, with its mountains, forests, sunsets, and rivers, was quite beautiful. The Land of Fire's fertile lands made it a target for other nations, unlike the Wind Country, which was a harsh, sandy desert.

During his journey, Kazuya encountered two groups of bandits who, seeing a lone Konoha ninja, thought they could rob him. Many of these bandits were wandering ninjas with some strength, often preying on caravans and lone village ninjas for resources. But attacking Kazuya was a grave mistake. He swiftly dealt with the dozen or so bandits, breaking their necks and leaving their bodies in the forest.

Four days later, Kazuya arrived in the Land of Hot Water, entering a prosperous town. He wore plain white clothes, having removed his Konoha forehead protector to avoid unnecessary trouble. Ninja entry was a sensitive matter in other countries.

The town was bustling with pedestrians, and two things stood out: the hot springs on Blue Bird Mountain and the lively casino on Rose Street. Hot springs and casinos were the main attractions of the Land of Hot Water. As for Hot Springs Village, it was insignificant except for Hidan, a member of the Akatsuki organization. If a war broke out, Konoha could easily overwhelm Hot Springs Village in days. The village wisely maintained a peace-loving stance, avoiding conflicts and surviving over the years.

"Just as Jiraiya would love it here," Kazuya thought, noting the open atmosphere. The streets were filled with young women enthusiastically inviting people into various establishments, though their nature was less than respectable. Kazuya had no interest in such places; he was not puritan but wanted to have more affection and meaning behind such acts.

After wandering for a while, Kazuya found a restaurant and ordered eel rice, grilled octopus, and miso soup. He planned to find Tsunade after eating. Ten minutes later, as he was about to leave, he overheard a group of men at the next table speaking excitedly.

"Did you hear? A beautiful woman lost over 10 million in the casino yesterday and plans to win it back today!"

"Really?"

"Yeah, the news is all over. She's supposedly gathered over 30 million to try again!"

"Wow, is she that rich?"

"Absolutely! Let's hurry before we miss it!"

The men chatted, their faces twisted with excitement. Gamblers were always drawn to large bets and beautiful women. This "beautiful fat sheep" intrigued Kazuya. The Third Hokage had mentioned Tsunade was on Rose Street in the Land of Hot Water. A rich, attractive gambler could very well be her. Otherwise, any wealthy, good-looking person would have been taken advantage of long ago.

Kazuya stood up and followed the men quietly. He figured Tsunade's infamous bad luck in gambling would inevitably lead to losses. Better she lose to him than to strangers—after all, they were on the same side.

A few minutes later, Kazuya followed the gamblers into a luxurious casino. The noisy atmosphere hit him immediately. Inside, some people were celebrating wins, while others despaired over losses. Kazuya remained calm; he was there to win. If he lost, he could always take drastic measures, ensuring he wouldn't leave empty-handed.

As he wandered through the casino, searching for Tsunade, he suddenly heard a commotion at the entrance.

"Wow! It's the big spender!"

"She's gorgeous!"

Many gamblers exclaimed loudly. Kazuya turned to look. 

In the crowd, two women entered. One had short black hair, carrying a small pet pig, looking timid. Beside her was a strikingly beautiful woman with long, light blonde hair, wearing a green robe with "gamble" written on the back. Her presence was commanding, like a queen entering her domain, attracting everyone's attention.

Kazuya's mission had just become more interesting.