"This kid's a total monster. The Fourth Hokage spent three years developing the Rasengan, and this guy mastered it in a flash—and even created a stronger version on top of it. Man, you can't help but be impressed!"
Jiraiya shook his head helplessly as he thought to himself. Only now did he truly believe the stories about Kazama thrashing Orochimaru.
"See that, Pervy Sage? I told you Kazama's crazy strong!"
Seeing Jiraiya's deflated look, Naruto burst out laughing.
"You're laughing? You two graduated from the same academy, and you don't feel like you're completely outclassed by Kazama?"
"Ugh, how dare you underestimate me! Kazama, teach me that Giant Rasengan right now! I'm gonna beat Pervy Sage!"
"I told you, stop calling me Pervy Sage!"
It wasn't long before Jiraiya led Kazama and Naruto to Tsunade's whereabouts.
"Tsunade, I'll cut to the chase. After Orochimaru attacked Konoha, the Third feels he's too old to keep serving as Hokage. He hopes you'll return to take up the mantle as the Fifth Hokage…"
"I refuse!"
Before Jiraiya could finish, Tsunade smirked coldly.
"Old man Sarutobi's still playing hero at his age. He's lucky he didn't die this time, but next time he won't be so fortunate. Me, become Hokage? No way. Only an idiot would take that job!"
"You jerk!"
Hearing this, Naruto charged at her, fists swinging, only to be yanked back by Jiraiya.
Jiraiya knew Tsunade's strength all too well—Naruto was just asking for a beating.
"Kid, I wasn't even talking about you. Why're you so worked up?"
Tsunade found Naruto's reaction hilarious.
"Shut up! Being Hokage is my dream! Not only did you insult the Third Hokage, but you called anyone who wants to be Hokage an idiot! I don't care if you're a woman—I'm not afraid to take you on! Pervy Sage, let me go!"
"Kid, we're in a tavern. Can you not make a scene?"
Naruto was like a wild animal, and even Jiraiya was struggling to hold him back.
"Fine!"
Tsunade slammed the table and stood up.
"Kid, since you care so much about the Hokage title, let's make a bet. If you can beat me, I'll apologize. But if I beat you…"
Her eyes drifted to the bulging wallet at Naruto's waist.
"No surprise there, Princess Tsunade, the gambling addict!"
Kazama, standing nearby, gave a wry smile. He knew Tsunade wasn't seriously trying to insult the Hokage title. She'd seen too much war, too much death, and it had left deep scars. That's why she refused to return to Konoha or take on the Hokage role.
"Kid, I don't want people saying I'm bullying the weak, so I'll only use one finger against you. If you win, I'll apologize on the spot!"
Outside, Tsunade wagged a finger at Naruto.
"You said it! Shadow Clone Jutsu!"
"Save it!"
The moment Naruto attacked, Tsunade saw through his moves. With just one finger, she sent him flying ten meters back.
"So, kid, you give up yet?"
Seeing Naruto's pathetic state, Tsunade burst into laughter.
"Let me tell you, only naive kids like you take the Hokage title so seriously, blabbing about becoming Hokage all day. Dreamers like you need a wake-up call from me!"
"Damn it!"
Naruto trembled with rage but was powerless. The gap between him and Tsunade was just too vast.
"My dream is to become Hokage too. Think you've got what it takes to wake me up?"
Kazama helped Naruto to his feet, his voice cold as he addressed Tsunade.
"Here we go! I knew Kazama wouldn't stay quiet. This is gonna be good!"
Jiraiya snickered to himself. He'd already witnessed Kazama's strength, and now it was Tsunade's turn to eat her words.
"Kids these days really don't know their place. Fine, you want a beating? I'll humor you. Same rules—one finger!"
"You'd better use everything you've got. I'll even let you use both hands and feet!"
"What?!"
Tsunade's face flushed with anger. She never imagined that she, one of the legendary Sannin, would be looked down on by some wet-behind-the-ears kid.