"Lady Tsunade, honestly, how many times has this been? Now we have to move to another city again." Shizune complained as she ran, while the casino thugs continued chasing them from behind.
Both of them were among the best of the shinobi. Leaving Tsunade aside, even Shizune had possessed the strength of an elite Chunin in recent years. If they wished, a single move would have been enough to take down every thug behind them.
But Tsunade had forbidden such behavior. In her words, one's conduct at the gambling table reflected one's character. You could dodge a debt because you had no money—that was being forced by circumstances. But if you turned around and beat up your creditor to avoid paying, that was a problem with your character, and absolutely unacceptable.
As for Tsunade's reasoning, Shizune could do nothing but sigh. After all, she was an elder.
After fleeing all the way to the edge of town, Tsunade smiled and laughed loudly. "All right, Shizune, stop complaining. Once we reach the next city, I'll treat you to a proper feast. At worst, I just won't use you as a wager anymore."
As Tsunade spoke, her expression suddenly froze. Her figure came to an abrupt halt, and with one outstretched hand, she stopped Shizune behind her as well.
"What is it, Lady Tsunade?" Shizune asked softly. It had been a long time since she had seen that expression on Tsunade's face.
Taking advantage of their pause, the casino thugs, who had already fallen behind and were beginning to give up, immediately perked up. They quickened their pace, caught up, and surrounded the two women.
"Huff... you... huff... why don't you keep running?" the leader panted, a smug smile on his face.
Tsunade ignored him and looked toward the forest not far