Naruto: Plaguelord of The Leaf

Disclaimer: This will be a Naruto fanfiction with a bit of a twist involving "Technically Living Zombie" trope and may get AU. With that said, I hope you enjoy this story.

Chapter 1: Shadow Plague

It took a few days to travel from where they met Midori to the border into the Land of Waves. During that time, Naruto had slowly learnt how to use his newfound powers which are indeed the same as Midori's own bloodline abilities. One of the earliest skills he had leant was to use his unique chakra, which is now purple unlike the usual blue or demonic red colour, to create the same purple miasma which almost killed him. As the miasma has the elements of both poison and disease, Kakashi made it extremely clear that he is not to use that ability until his chakra control improves. Considering his poor chakra control due to his abnormally large reserves and his status as a jinchuuriki of the Kyuubi no Youko, and the fact that his bloodline ability seems to be affected by his emotions, Kakahi's warning certainly deserves at least some merit. Speaking of the demon fox, Naruto had been unable to contact the fox ever since that day when he first met Midori although he does have an instinctive feeling that the Kyuubi is still alive inside of him. Naruto also told Kakashi about his encounter with the fox and about Midori's painful past which caused the man to suspect that she was once an experiment to create a living bioweapon. Due to the nature of Midroi's past, Kakashi has at least a suspicion as to who is responsible for making her fall ill to the terrible illness that would have killed her had she not met Naruto.

The second skill which Naruto learnt was admittedly by accident as Sakura tried to punch him in the head only to almost break her fingers as his skull suddenly became harder than steel and had pony protrusion from his scalp. Not surprisingly, Sakura had ceased to physically abuse him for whatever mistakes he had made during the journey but is not above insulting him thus earning Midori's intense dislike for her. In fact, Midori almost attacked Sakura a couple of times only to be stopped by Kakashi who told her that he needed everyone to be fighting-fit for the mission. However he also made it clear that he would not tolerate Sakura antagonizing Midori even if indirectly by insulting the boy that had essentially saved her. Despite being a Sasuke fangirl and having a dislike for Naruto who has now become freaky on top of annoying, Sakura at least had enough common sense to realize that Midori was defending Naruto just as she would have defended her Sasuke-kun. Still, old habits die hard and Kakashi just knew that Midori would make Sakura regret it once the mission is over.

Although unable to really shape-shift like Midori, Naruto was nevertheless able to at least manipulate his bones to create bony spikes and claws. Naruto also learnt that his shadow clones, a skill he had learnt from reading the forbidden scroll after failing the third time due to failing to create a normal illusionary clone, can be used to poison his enemies by simply dispelling as they leave a cloud of poisonous miasma rather than normal smoke. Combined with his large reserves which allow him to create hundreds or even thousands of shadow clones which can actually physically attack unlike normal clones, even Sasuke was forced to realize that Naruto's new bloodline ability had made him potentially extremely dangerous.

While helping Naruto understand his newfound abilities to the best of her admittedly inexperienced abilities, Midori was also starting to learn more about her own. The first thing she learnt was that she can grow tumours at will and actually use them to create a variety of biological weapons including sacs of miasma and bony spikes which she can use like kunai. She also learnt that she can actually grow mushrooms on her body, which is actually not overly surprising considering that there is such a thing such as fungal infections. Besides practicing her bloodline abilities, she also started to learn some of the basic ninjutsu which Naruto had learnt from the academy, which is really not very much due to not paying attention in class and the teachers generally refusing to help him or even sabotaging his lessons at times.

Through observing their training sessions, Kakashi noted that both children are probably either highly resistant or even immune to most biological poisons and diseases as they could spar one another without falling sick despite using their bloodline abilities. He also noted that if Naruto could improve his chakra control, he would theoretically be able to use Midori's shape-shifting as well as her tumour and mushroom-growing abilities in time.

Ever since Naruto's change, both Sakura and Sasuke made it a point to avoid him and Midori as they do not wish to fall sick, not that they can afford to since they are on a mission regardless. Of course, Naruto was unhappy by their actions but cannot fully blame them for not wanting to fall sick while on a mission and can only hope that they would stop avoiding him or Midori once the mission is over. However, given their fear and disgust, even Naruto cannot deny that the chances are slim at best. Thankfully though, both Kakashi and Tazuna are willing to at least talk to him and Midori although even Kakashi avoided getting close to them when they use their abilities. Also, Naruto and Midori have each other and their friendship only grew as they spent time together…

Scene Change

Having secretly crossed into the Land of Waves by boat, Team Seven, Midori and Tazuna were soon on their way towards Tazuna's home when the mist suddenly became thicker. Sensing incoming danger, Kakashi said, "Everyone, stop."

As everyone stopped walking, the Konohagakure jounin warily glanced about for any incoming danger when a voice spoke, "Well, well, if it isn't the famous Copycat Ninja, Hatake Kakashi." Appearing out of the mist before the group was a man who could lift and carry an overly-huge cleaver-like sword as though it was nothing.

While everyone else stared at the obviously dangerous man in fear, Kakashi glared at him and said, "Momochi Zabuza, formerly one of the Seven Swordsmen of Kirigakure and the infamous Demon of the Mist."

Smirking underneath the bandages that cover his lower face, Zabuza said, "That I am." Releasing a powerful burst of killing intent, the man added, "I came here to kill your client. If you would be so kind as to let me finish him, I will be willing to leave the rest of you alone."

While Sakura, Sasuke and Tazuna were frozen in fear, both Naruto and Midori did the unexpected as they suddenly changed form with black veins bulging out of their skin. Midori suddenly grew bony spikes out of her spine, shoulders and joints as well as claws which were dripping with poison. Naruto on the other hand could only shape-shift his hands as they became bony claws studded with spikes and was starting to exhale miasma from his mouth. While surprised by their reactions to Zabuza's killing intent, Kakashi was nevertheless glad that they would not freeze in terror should the man decide to suddenly attack.

Zabuza meanwhile was almost frowning in displeasure as it was apparent that both Midori and Naruto were able to use the bloodlines abilities the Demon Brothers had informed him of earlier and that they were not too scared to use their abilities either. Then again, he was already half-expecting the outcome as the man asked, "Aren't you all going to ask your client why a missing-nin of Kirigakure is aiming for his head?"

Not taking his eyes of Zabuza, Kakashi said, "I'm guessing it has something to do with someone with enough power and money to hire you not wanting our client to complete the bridge."

While Tazuna was shocked that Kakashi had actually known or at least suspected the truth, Zabuza grinned and said, "Indeed, my client happens to hate the idea of losing his monopoly over this land and would be very unhappy if your client succeeds in completing the bridge."

"And why would you tell us that titbit of information?" asked Kakashi.

"Let's just say that if you do not want to risk losing your brats just because they took on a mission that is obviously way above their current abilities, I would suggest that you leave your client. He did lie about the ranking of your mission after all."

Hearing Zabuza's almost-smug statement, which does have merit if you are willing to be cruelly pragmatic, Kakashi nevertheless asked, "And what makes you think that we would believe you? After all, you might just kill us as soon as we lower our guard."

Snorting, Zabuza said, "Please, I may enjoy the idea of defeating you and claiming your head as well as getting paid by my client but I have no interest in killing weakling brats. Besides, which one among your lot is still willing to continue protecting that liar of a bridge builder?" Tazuna, who had indeed lied about the ranking of the mission, was close to despairing as he just knew that the Konohagakure ninjas would agree with Zabuza and abandon him.

Before anyone else could speak, Naruto asked, "Were you the bastards that hurt Midori-chan and made her sick?"

Blinking in response to the boy's unexpected query, Zabuza nevertheless answered, "No, I've never met a girl with green skin before, or a girl with pink hair for that matter." Narrowing his eyes, Zabuza asked, "Why?"

Grinning daringly despite the danger, Naruto said, "That's because you spoke as though our lives wouldn't be at risk if you never got involved with our client. The thing is, I almost died once on this mission already even without your involvement and yet here I am, still alive and kicking." Assuming a fighting stance, Naruto added, "If you think that over-sized meat-cleaver is going to scare me, think again!" Heartened by Naruto's words, Midori also assumed a fighting stance, ready to help Naruto defeat the masked man. Even Sasuke and Sakura found inspiration in his words, not that they would ever willingly admit it.

Smiling proudly at his students, especially Naruto, Kakashi said, "Well, as a jounin instructor, I do need to set up at least some good examples for my cute little genin." Taking out his kunai, Kakashi added, "Ready when you are, Zabuza."

Looking at the jounin, his genin students and Midori, Zabuza sighed and said, "Alright, I give up."

Surprised, Naruto intelligibly asked, "What?"

Wearing an annoyed expression, Zabuza explained, "I said I give up."

Not expecting Zabuza's response either, Kakashi had to ask, "And why are you giving up so easily?"

Sheathing his sword, Zabuza glared at Kakashi and said, "Please, like you don't already know about the nature of that green-skinned girl, and your orange-wearing student by extension."

Now realizing why Zabuza is unwilling to fight, Kakashi was almost tempted to relax his guard as he asked, "How did you find out?"

"Like I would tell you that," replied Zabuza.

"Touché, but surely you're not just going to quit your mission without doing anything about it. You do need your pay after all,"

Nodding in confirmation, Zabuza explained, "After I learnt about your brats'… unique circumstances, I decided to investigate my client for a bit and see if he's the type that will honour his end of the bargain. Turns out that he wouldn't if he can get away with it and, as much as I hate not getting my pay, I hate dying pointlessly even more."

Now understanding Zabuza's current situation, Kakashi asked, "So in other words, you wanted to either kill our client with little trouble or, in the event that it would not happen, cut your losses and quit your mission."

"Close, I still want that money so I'm willing to give you information and even assist you in dealing with my client and his pathetic goons if you're willing to let me take the money he had "promised" to pay me."

"Just how much is he planning to pay you anyway?" asked Naruto.

Zabuza's smirk was visible beneath the bandages as he stated the amount. Hearing the amount which is much more than the pay for their current C-ranked mission, Naruto whistled as he swore, "Damn, that's a lot of money alright."

"So, do we have a deal?" asked Zabuza.

Cautious, Kakashi said, "While it is certainly something worth considering, we will not make any promises until we at least escort our client back to his home." His eyes narrowed as he released his own burst of killing intent and added, "But do anything that will suggest that you will betray us and I will eliminate you, and your allies." Both Meizu and Gouzu who had hidden themselves in the mist shivered as they knew that they cannot match against him.

Impressed by Kakashi's killing intent, Zabuza nodded and motioned his hand for the Demon Brothers to leave. As they left, he spoke to to Kakashi before leaving himself, "We will be expecting your answer soon, Hatake Kakashi."

Watching the masked swordman disappear into the mist, Kakashi only relaxed his guard when the thick mist cleared. Turning his attention to Tazuna, Kakashi said, "Alright, start explaining."

Scene Change

It did not take long for Team Seven to obtain Tazuna's confession that he had indeed lied to them about the ranking of the mission, which is at least A-Ranked rather than C-Ranked due to Zabuza's involvement. However, he was forced to do so due to being unable to pay for better protection as well as his desperate desire to complete the bridge as the economy of Land of Waves is currently being monopolized by a cruel business tycoon known as Gatou, the owner of Gatou Cooperation. Should the bridge be completed, Gatou would lose his monopoly and therefore lose his control over Wave which is currently suffering poverty due to the said monopoly.

Deciding to continue with the mission, they eventually managed to get back to Tazuna's home safely without further incident. Upon returning home, Tazuna was greeted by his daughter, Tsunami, who was relieved to see that he had returned safely despite the circumstances. Grinning, Tazuna reassured her, "We have some super-strong ninjas with us which even Gatou's hired ninjas are scared of, so we should be safe for a while!"

Secretly peering at Naruto and Midori from behind his favourite book with an orange cover, known as Icha Icha Paradise, Kakashi mused, "More like children with a combination of different bloodline abilities so dangerous that not even their own allies can afford to be careless, not to mention a jinchuuriki whom Zabuza might be at least suspicious of."

"So, are we really going to work together with Zabuza to deal with Gatou?" asked Naruto.

Scared at the prospect of working together with Zabuza and angry that Naruto would even suggest it, Sakura shouted, "Of course not! There's no way we're going to work together with that monster!" While aware that Sakura was accusing Zabuza of being a monster, her words still made Naruto tense as he had been called such by the adults that hated him, and thought that he was not listening, for long enough to know.

"Actually, it might be a good idea," replied Kakashi.

Shocked, Sakura asked, "What? Why?"

"Firstly, we need to protect Tazuna-san and one way to protect him would be to eliminate a known threat. However, given Gatou's position as a well-known shipping tycoon, we won't be able to eliminate him immediately unless we have definite proof of his guilty actions which Zabuza might be able to provide for us. Another reason is that completing the bridge won't mean the end of Tazuna-san's problems as Gatou may use his resources to destroy the bridge or make travel by bridge difficult." Kakashi's explanation disheartened Tazuna and Tsunami as they both knew the possible implications of the second fact.

Hearing Kakashi's reasons for wanting to work with Zabuza, Naruto then had an idea, "Hey, how about we just make Gatou and his men really sick? That way we can say that they suffered a bad bug and probably died from it."

Surprised by Naruto's suggestion, Kakashi then asked, "And how exactly are you planning to make them sick without anyone, at least other than Zabuza and his underlings, realizing that it is us?"

Grinning, Naruto asked, "Have you already forgotten who the best prankster in Konohagakure is?"

While Naruto explained his idea to Kakashi, a young boy with dark hair and eyes as well as wearing a cap peeked at the newcomers with open distrust in his eyes…

Scene Change

Before long, Zabuza and the Demon Brothers arrived at Tazuna's house. Kakashi and the four children were prepared for treachery as the silver-haired man asked, "Before we accept any deals, tell me how exactly you are going to help us get rid of your client, Gatou?"

Not surprised thet Kakashi had found out the name of his client, Zabuza spat, "Well, considering how that bastard is being a complete pain in the ass due to my "incompetence", I'm quite tempted to just storm into whichever hole he's hiding in and take his head." The swordsman then asked, "What about you? I'm sure even you Konohagakure softies realize that your client is better off with Gatou dead."

"While I'm willing to say that you're right that our client would be better off with yours dead, I cannot say that I agree with the idea of storming in and killing everyone inside. Gatou is a well-known business tycoon and any attempts to take his life will have repercussions," replied Kakashi.

"I'm guessing that you want this to be a covert mission so that you can kill Gatou and not have anyone accuse your village of murdering him without proof that the world if better off without him?" asked Zabuza.

Nodding, Kakashi replied, "That's pretty much the idea. The only other idea I can think of is putting up a show to draw Gatou out to betray you and then kill him."

Pondering over Kakashi's ideas, Zabuza then answered, "As much as I would love to have a duel with you, I'd go for the covert assassination mission since the bastard is probably already getting suspicious." Turning his attention towards the four children, Zabuza asked, "So, are they going to get involved?"

"As a matter of fact, they are."

Surprised by Kakashi's statement, Zabuza was stunned into momentary silence as Naruto grinned and told him his idea, and idea inspired by his days as a prankster…

Scene Change

Gatou, a short man with grey hair and a moustache, was scowling as he recalled his last conversation with the so-called Demon of the Mist and thought, "That incompetent excuse of a ninja can't even assassinate a single bridge builder!" What made him even more furious is that Zabuza had informed him that there had been some unexpected complication which delayed the assassination but would not give any details even after confirming that Tazuna had returned to Wave. "If I didn't know any better, he's probably planning to get rid of me and claim all of my money!" Needless to say, the greedy man would not allow it to happen as he was already making plans to deal with the missing-nin from Kirigakure as well as his underlings.

Scene Change

Hearing Naruto's idea, Zabuza rubbed his chin thoughtfully and said, "That might work. Not exactly fool-proof and bloody conspicuous to anyone that knows what to look for but should be effective enough against Gatou and his men." The fact that no one would be able to pin the blame on him, the Demon Brothers or even Kakashi should someone decide to investigate, which is unlikely if done right, is definitely a plus.

Grinning, Naruto asked, "So, are we going to do it tonight?"

Nodding, Zabuza said, "Preferably, if Gatou is already suspecting my pre-emptive counter-treachery he will no doubt do something to get rid of me and my men. The sooner we deal with him the better."

Turning his attention towards Sasuke and Sakura who were still cautiously staring at Zabuza and the Demon Brothers, Kakashi said, "You two will remain here to guard Tazuna and his family while I, Naruto and Midori deal with Gatou with Zabuza's help."

Scowling, Sasuke asked, "And since when does the dobe and his girlfriend get the special treatment?"

Blindly agreeing with Sasuke, Sakura asked, "Yeah, why are that idiot and his freaky girlfriend helping you while Sasuke-kun and I are stuck with guard duty?"

Hurt and angered by Sakura insulting Midori, Naruto shouted, "Hey, Midori-chan's is not a freak!"

Huffing haughtily, Sakura argued, "Yeah right, have you already forgotten what her bloodline does? It's disgusting!"

Infuriated by her words, bony spikes and claws started to grow on Naruto's hands as he shouted, "Midori-chan's not a disgusting freak! The real disgusting freaks are the ones that made her that way!" Shocked by Naruto's shout and his tone of voice which sounded truly angry, Sakura was stunned while Naruto continued to rant, "I may not care what you say about me since I've received much worse form a lot of people but don't you dare insult her when you don't even know what she had to go through!"

Normally Sakura would berate Naruto, violently if needed, for daring to argue against her. However, his words gave her pause as she subconsciously knew that Naruto would know Midori better than her and thus may know things that she did not know as he had spent a lot of time with that girl. In addition, Naruto's words gave the clear implication that Midori was actually forced to inherit the terrible bloodline which is arguably worse than simply being born with it. Nevertheless, Sakura did not like losing to Naruto of all people in an argument as she angrily asked, "And what do you know about her pain? You talk as though you even knew what it means to suffer!"

"And what if I do? What if the smile I always wore was just a mask to hide my pain because almost everyone in my own home village hates me?" shouted Naruto.

Stunned, Sakura did not know what else to say as Kakashi decided to interrupt, "Alright, that's enough you two." Turning his attention to Sakura and Sasuke, he explained, "The reason why Naruto and Midori are following me is because they are vital for the mission as they have the ability to create miasma to poison Gatou and his men. They are also immune to their own poison, something which the both of you and our client obviously lack. Therefore, I need to both of your to stay back and protect Tazuna in case anything happens while we're gone." Still stunned, Sakura nodded dumbly while Sasuke looked away with a haughty grunt. Sighing, Kakashi turned his attention to the still-angry Naruto and upset Midori and said, "We best get going."

As Kakashi, Naruto and Midori left with Zabuza and the Demon Brothers, Sakura and Sasuke returned back to Tazuna's house with their client…

Scene Change

It was an unusually misty night when two of Gatou's mercenaries were patrolling around Gatou's building. While on patrol, they saw a sickly scrawny boy with white hair appearing from the mist. Knowing that no outsiders, especially not skinny brats dressed only in rags and bandages, are allowed to enter uninvited, the two guards wore sadistic grins at the prospect of having some fun tormenting the boy to alleviate their boredom. Drawing out their swords, the two men swaggered their way towards the boy as one of them spoke, "Hey, this is Gatou Corp property. No one is allowed to enter without Gatou's permission." His grin grew as he added, "And that means that we have every right to hurt you so do put a bit of effort while we make you squeal!"

Without further warning, the two men charged forward to abuse the boy. However, as soon as they struck with the flat of their swords, the boy disappeared in a puff of purple mist. Shocked, the two men backed away to avoid inhaling the substance. However, despite not inhaling the purple mist, they still ended up feeling feverishly weak and nauseous while painful sores began to form on the portions of their skin which came to contact with the mist. Unable to remain standing, both men fell down and were soon unconscious.

Once the two men were unconscious, another white-haired boy appeared followed by another boy and a female counterpart until a literal small army of white-haired children of all ages lurched from the surrounding mists towards Gatou's building…

Scene Change

Watching the lurching children from afar, Kakashi said, "Naruto, remind me to never ever face your shadow clones head-on."

"Me and the brothers would like to second that motion," said an understandably disturbed Zabuza while the Demon Brothers nodded vigorously in agreement. Facing anyone, even a mere genin, who can easily create hundreds of shadow clones is already bad enough but a boy who can create hundreds of shadow clones which release poisonous miasma upon dispelling is just plain overkill.

Grinning, Naruto asked, "So, do you think that'll be enough to get Gatou?"

Peering at the hundreds of clones, all of which have assumed different forms for the sake of disguising Naruto's involvement in the attack, Kakashi said, "Seeing that they have the building completely surrounded, the only ways Gatou would escape from your clones would be by hiding in a hidden room that they cannot find, escape by a hidden passageway or not being in that building in the first place."

"Let's just hope that he's not that well-prepared. Finding his sorry ass would be a bloody pain if he does get away," growled Zabuza.

"That aside, how long do you think we need to wait before the miasma clears, Zabuza-sama?" asked Gouzu. Having dealt with poisons before, the Demon Brothers knew that they would need to wait for the poisonous mist to clear before they can even think about entering the area unless they are immune to it, which they are obviously not.

Glaring at Gouzu, Zabuza replied, "How the hell should I know? Why don't you ask the orange-brat or his girl?"

Scratching the back of his head, Naruto sheepishly admitted, "Well, the truth is, I've no idea myself. This is the first time after my change that I've used so many clones let alone use them that way."

"Wait, are you saying that we might have to wait for hours or even days for the poison to clear?" asked an incredulous Meizu.

Frowning, Kakashi said, "We cannot afford to wait that long. While our team's mission to protect our client will take at least a month, we cannot afford to be unaware of Gatou's fate for that long." He then asked Midori who should have a better understanding of the ability she shares with Naruto, "Do you know any way to make the miasma clear faster?"

Nodding, Midori said, "I can eat it."

Blinking, the other five wondered, "Eat it?"

Scene Change

An hour later, after Naruto told Kakashi that the Gatou's entire compound is covered with miasma thanks to the unique fact that shadow clones can transfer their knowledge to the user of the said technique upon dispelling, the group approached the site. Cautious of the poisonous miasma which can affect them even with just skin contact, they stayed far away while Naruto and Midori approached the purple mist-like substance. Once close enough, Midori opened her mouth wide and proceeded to inhale the miasma. Shocked, Zabuza thought, "I'm pretty damn sure that the Dokusoeki clan never had THAT ability."

Kakashi on the other hand mused, "So it seems that she really does have the Kyuuketsuki clan's ability except that she devours poison and probably even diseases rather than blood. I wonder if she could use that miasma like how they could use their own blood as a weapon."

Awed by her ability, Naruto decided to try as well and found to his surprise that he could indeed use her admittedly simple ability albeit much less effectively due to his lower level of control. It did not take long for the boy to have a competition with Midori on who will consume more of the deadly miasma, a challenge which Midori amusedly accepted. Before long, the miasma was quickly cleared and everyone could enter with relative safety. Despite being aware that many of the victims to the miasma are heartless mercenaries, both Naruto and Midori still felt bad as they saw the suffering and even dying individuals that littered the ground. Even Zabuza, who had gleefully slaughtered the entire graduating class of his own home village despite not even being an academy student himself, found the miserable sight to his distaste.

Making their way towards Gatou's office, they soon found out that the man had indeed tried to escape through a hidden passageway. However, in his panic, the man fell and cracked his skull thus killing him quickly. Shaking his head in disgust, Zabuza spat, "I almost feel bad for his miserable way of dying."

Seeing that Gatou had perished, the group wasted no time to retrieve documents to prove Gatou's guilt and to obtain the money he promised to pay Zabuza, whom Gatou did indeed plan to betray. After collecting what they needed, they left Gatou's compound…

Scene Change

"Well, it was unexpectedly good business with you Konoha ninjas," said Zabuza. Having gotten what they came for, without any losses worth worrying about at that, Zabuza was in an admittedly good mood.

"I'm guessing that this is the point when we part ways?" asked Kakashi.

Nodding, Zabuza said, "There's little point in staying here any longer and being missing-nins from Kirigakura does not exactly encourage us to settle down anytime soon." Left unsaid was that he and Haku had planned to kill Gatou from the very beginning as they despised the man and could always make use of additional funds.

Understanding Zabuza's point, Kakashi said, "Well, let us just hope that the next time we meet we would not have to end up trying to kill each other."

Snorting, Zabuza said, "Afraid that you will lose in a duel with me, Copycat Ninja?"

Almost tempted to ask Zabuza if he had just said something, like what he would often do with a certain spandex-clad self-proclaimed rival of his, Kakashi instead said, "No, but I do plan to live long enough to at least see my genin team become chuunin."

Looking at Naruto and Midori who stood behind Kakashi, Zabuza said, "Shouldn't be too hard considering that you have these two brats, one of which has to be a damned jinchuuriki whom I'm guessing is the brat in orange since he made all those shadow clones." Both Naruto and Midori were shocked that the man somehow knew about Naruto's status as a jinchuuriki.

Not surprised by Zabuza's statement, Kakashi asked, "And what do you plan to do with that information?"

Shrugging, Zabuza admitted, "Normally I would love to give away that information to the highest bidder but even I'm not dumb enough to anger a jinchuuriki who can create an army of poisonous shadow clones. Besides, those two brats are the reason why we got the money without having to fight against your team to the death so I'm willing to keep that boy's status as a jinchuuriki and their bloodlines as secrets to return the favour."

Satisfied with the man's response, Kakashi said, "Well, it was good working together with you rather than trying to kill you. Be sure to say hi to your fake hunter-nin for me!"

Surprised by Kakashi's cheerful statement, the two children looked around to find the fake hunter-nin he mentioned about while Zabuza growled in mild displeasure and said, "If I were you, I'd keep that information to myself unless you do not care about me revealing what I know about those two brats."

Raising his hands, Kakashi said, "Don't worry, your secret is safe with me. Just be sure to keep your end of the bargain."

Grunting in understanding, Zabuza and the Demon Brothers quickly left the other three and regrouped with the masked Haku before leaving the Land of Waves…

Scene Change

Sakura and Sasuke were eating breakfast prepared by Tsunami when Kakashi, Midori and Naruto returned. Relieved that they have returned, Tazuna asked, "So, how did your mission go?"

Smiling reassuringly, Kakashi said, "The good news is that Gatou is dead and that Zabuza is unlikely to cause us any problems anytime soon."

"And the bad news?" asked Tazuna.

"Well, let's just say that we left a lot of poisoned and diseased dead bodies at his place and that we'll need to get the bodies cleared. Wouldn't want to have this place suffering a plague outbreak or anything," replied Kakashi.

Before Tazuna could express his relief and gratitude, a young boy with a cap on his head as well as dark hair and eyes shouted, "Liar, there's no way you can beat Gatou!"

Recognizing the boy to be Tsunami's son, as well as Tazuna's grandson, Inari, Kakashi knew that the boy had suffered because Gatou executed his stepfather, Kaiza. Ever since the death of his father-figure who was bravely trying to rally the people of Wave to stand against Gatou, the boy was convinced that there is no such things such as heroes and had pretty much resigned to his fate that Gatou will always win by crushing anyone that dares to defy him. Looking at the boy, Kakashi patiently spoke, "No, we did indeed beat Gatou."

Glaring at the masked ninja, Inari shouted, "I don't believe you! Gatou would have never let any of you live!"

Before anyone could say further, Naruto appeared before the boy and gave him a smack on the head. Stunned, the boy stared at Naruto while rubbing his head as the former blond spoke, "I'm going to only say this once so you better zip your cry-baby mouth and listen!"

Angry at Naruto's actions, Sakura was about to berate him when Kakashi raised his hand to stop her and said, "Wait, let Naruto finish what he needs to say." Although unwilling to argue with Kakashi, Sakura looked away with an angry pout as she was sure that Naruto would say something idiotic like always.

Staring at Inari with a frown on his face, Naruto spoke, "There are three things which I want to say. One, your father was a hero who did the right thing even though it killed him. Two, you can cry and hide all you want but that will never make things better. Three, you should be glad that you still have people that care for you like your mum and gramps."

Not daring to say anything, Inari simply ran away back into his room. Sighing, Naruto turned his attention to Kakashi and said, "I'll be outside training with Midori-chan."

Nodding in understanding, Kakashi turned his attention to Tsunami and apologized, "I'm sorry if what my student had done upset you in any way."

Shaking her head, Tsunami sadly said, "That's alright. I just hope that with Gatou's death that Inari will finally see that there are things worth hoping and fighting for like what Kaiza-san had said."

It would be later on that same day when Kakashi would tell Inari of Naruto's painful past and how he was able to save Midori, a girl who had suffered just as horribly as he had, despite his shortcomings as a ninja…

Scene Change

The weeks that passed went by like a blur ad the people of Wave realized Gatou's demise due to an unexpected plague-like poison which killed all of his men and sent him to a panic which cause him to fall and die. Although none of the people, with the notable exception of Tazuna and his family, knew how the plague started or why, they knew that they were finally free from Gatou's tyranny. Thankful of what must be some sort of divine intervention, they proceeded to clear away the dead bodies by burning them with the aid of Kakashi's fire-based ninjutsu. After clearing away the dead bodies, they proceeded to loot whatever Gatou had kept on the Land of Wave and used the added resources to both complete the bridge and finally get the food and medicine they desperately needed. Despite Gatou being gone, the Konohagakure ninjas and Midori kept themselves busy as they continued to guard Tazuna and his family while helping out with the bridge construction as well as continue training to become stronger in case they face any actual enemy ninjas. Before long, the bridge was complete and was named "The Great Bridge of Wave"…

Scene Change

"Well, it looks like we'll be going," said Kakashi.

Nodding, Tazuna said, "I cannot thank you and your kids enough. Had it not been for you all, I doubt I would have lived this long let alone to see this bridge finally completed." Despite some people thinking that the bridge was no longer necessary with Gatou gone, Tazuna made it clear that the Land of Waves must never be solely dependent on boats for its economy like before. Considering what happened due to their dependency, it did not require much persuading to get the people to complete the bridge. Had it not been for Kakashi's request that Naruto and Midori's involvement with Gatou's death be kept a secret, Tazuna would have named the bridge the "Great Naruto Bridge" or something similar.

Stepping forward, Tsunami added, "Thank you, all of you, for helping us through. We'll never forget our debt to you." Turning her attention to Naruto and Midori, she added, "Especially to the both of you."

Grinning happily, Naruto turned his attention to Inari who was standing beside his mother and said, "You be a good kid for your mother and gramps, alright?" Not long after Gatou's death, Naruto needed a change of clothes after his favourite jumpsuit was ruined beyond repair due to using his newfound bloodline ability. As such, Naruto ended up wearing the same kind of clothes as Midori, namely rags and loose bandages, with a few extra features including the red spiral symbol sewn onto the back and the Konohagakure forehead protector sewn onto the collar. Midori did not change her clothes although they were much cleaner than before thanks to Tsunami's help. Both she and Naruto also wore fingerless gloves and black sandals.

Nodding, the boy whose temperament and personality improved thanks to understanding and later befriending Naruto and Midori grinned in return and said, "And you better take good care of your girlfriend!" For emphases, Inari showed Naruto the pinkie finger.

Blushing at the boy's cheeky statement, both Naruto and Midori looked bashfully away from one another despite not letting go of each other's hands. Lightly smacking the back of Inari's head, Tsunami mock-scolded, "Stop teasing those two or I will make sure that they know when you finally find yourself a girlfriend!"

Making a disgusted face, Inari said, "No way, girls have cooties!"

While Naruto made a mental note to tease Inari to the next lifetime should he ever gets himself a girlfriend, Midori giggled and said, "There are no such things such as cooties. Trust me, I know."

Although amused by the children's interactions, Kakashi decided to end it before Sasuke and Sakura get impatient and said, "Alright, that's enough you three. We need to return back to Konoha and the sooner we return and sooner I can treat you all with some Ichiraku Ramen."

Hearing the mere mention about ramen from his favourite ramen stand immediately got Naruto's attention as he grinned at his jounin instructor and said, "Then let's get going! I can taste the ramen already!" Holding onto Midori's hand tightly, Naruto quickly ran off while joyously saying goodbye to the people of Wave, especially to Tazuna and his family.

Chuckling at Naruto's response, Kakashi suddenly remembered something which made him pale as he thought, "Damn, I forgot about his appetite when it comes to ramen!"

Scene Change

Sarutobi Hiruzen, an elderly bearded man who is also the Third Hokage of Konohagakure, also formerly known as the God of Shinobi for his unrivalled skills as a ninja during his prime, was gaping like a fish after seeing Naruto's admittedly shocking physical changes and hearing Kakashi's even more unbelievable after-mission report. After all, it is not every day when a freshly-graduated genin went through what Naruto did, or gain a new bloodline which can scare even the infamous Demon of The Mist for that matter. After regaining his composure, he sighed and said, "Well, I can say without a shred of doubt that your mission is unlike any I've ever known in my lifetime." Peering at the nervous Midori who was holding onto Naruto's hand for reassurance, Hiruzen mused, "Still, considering what Naruto had gained, I couldn't be more pleased of the outcome." As one of the few people who honestly care for the boy, Hiruzen was glad that Naruto had finally gained a true friend, and perhaps more. Nevertheless, he would need to make sure that the foolish people who hates the boy for his burden as the container of the Kyuubi no Youko would not be able to force them apart. Considering their unique bloodline which is quite frankly frightening, Hiruzen knew that his rival, Shimura Danzou, would no doubt do anything within his power to claim Midori for his own agenda. Having made his decision, Hiruzen dismissed Sasuke and Sakura and then asked Kakashi, "Tell me, did Naruto use "that" chakra to save himself and Midori?"

Nodding, Kakashi said, "That and Midori also knows the nature of Naruto's burden which by the way had been silent ever since Naruto's transformation although it may still be alive."

Surprised by the revelation, Hiruzen turned his gaze upon Naruto who nervously wondered if he would be angry at him for letting an outsider know about the secret. Noticing the boy's nervous expression, Hiruzen smiled at him reassuringly before he spoke, "Don't worry, I'm not angry at you for letting her know about your burden. In fact, seeing her accept you regardless is far more of a relief for me than you realize." Seeing Naruto and Midori relax, Hiruzen then asked, "Now, tell me everything that you both know about Midori's past."

After Naruto informed the Third Hokage about Midori's terrible past as a lab experiment on her behalf, Hiruzen frowned as he wondered, "Is Orochimaru involved in this? It does sound suspiciously like his handiwork after all." The knowing look which Kakashi gave him as he glanced at the man only reaffirmed Hiruzen's suspicions. Turning his attention to Midori, Hiruzen said, "While I have faith in my ninjas, I would need to have someone look through your memories to confirm everything that Naruto and Kakashi had said about you."

Nodding in understanding, Midori then asked, "So… what happens to me now?"

"To be honest, both you and Naruto would be in for a hard time. Naruto is already hated for his burden and having recently acquired such a terrible bloodline will only make things harder for him. The fact that you have the same bloodline and care for him will make you almost as hated as he is. That is not counting those who would use either one or the both of you as unfeeling weapons." Hearing Hiruzen's last statement made Naruto growl and Midori upset as they have a shared dislike for being treated as such while the elderly man continued to speak, "Due to your circumstances, it is likely that the council will demand that Naruto be taken out of Team Seven and even I doubt I can dissuade them. However, they cannot change the fact that he is a genin of Konohagakure and, should you pass the memory-scans, you will be one as well considering what you are capable of and your contribution to the C-ranked mission."

Naruto did not mind the prospect of being separated from Team Seven as Sasuke had been even more of a "pain in the ass" ever since Gatou's demise while Sakura did everything in her power to support the Uchiha boy which included belittling Naruto and Midori. If he was being honest to himself, Naruto would have preferred being alone over being with those two as they are apparently no better than the people who hate him. Also, there are more pressing issues on his mind as he asked, "Can Midori-chan be a part of my team?"

Smiling, Hiruzen replied, "As a matter of fact, I plan to do just that. Just to be sure, I'll register her as an adopted member of your family as genin are considered adults and thus have rights normal children at your age would not have. This includes the right to adopt children, within reason of course."

Grinning, Naruto thanked the elderly man, "That's great, thanks Hokage-jiji!" Equally glad, Midori smiled and nodded.

Chuckling, Hiruzen dismissed the two so that Midori could settle down at Naruto's apartment. After they left, he turned his attention to Kakashi and asked, "Is there anything that you would like to tell me that you could not tell in front of them?"

Shaking his head, Kakashi said, "No, but I do wonder if the Kyuubi had done anything else to the both of them which we are not fully aware off yet."

Nodding in understanding, Hiruzen said, "Unfortunately, that will require examining the seal and only Jiraiya is capable of such. Also, due to the Kyuubi present, it is risky to have anyone from the Yamanaka clan to look into the boy's mind although it is clear that at least his personality seem intact."

Although he had hoped that they could more to be sure that both children would not be further-affected by the Kyuubi no Youko, Kakashi nodded in understanding and asked, "And what about the council? I doubt even the ninjas clans will stay out of this one."

"There is that, I can only hope that they would know better than discriminate them or use them for their own personal agendas."

"Such as enforced marriages to gain their abilities?" asked Kakashi.

Shaking his head, Hiruzen explained, "While the potential advantages of their new-found bloodline ability are indeed apparent, the danger and potential stigma would make any enforced marriages unlikely. I highly doubt that the prouder clans would never want to associate themselves with people possessing their abilities while the more paranoid ones may demand for their exile or even execution rather than marriage. We can only hope that it would not come down to that."

Sighing, Kakashi swore, "And this is why politics are even less appealing to me than fighting enemy ninjas."

"That is indeed true." Inhaling through his favourite pipe, Hiruzen exhaled a puff of smoke before he asked, "Putting heavy matters aside, who should we rearrange the teams and what should we call their new ability?"

Scene Change

Meanwhile, Naruto and Midori were eating a meal at one of his most favoured place in all of Konohagakure, Ichirakue Ramen, a humble ramen stand owned by middle-aged man named Teuchi and his daughter, Ayame. The two owners of the ramen stand were listening to Naruto's adventure in Wave and how he met and befriended Midori who will likely inherit his surname before long. While shocked by how Naruto almost died and gained a new ability which actually made an enemy jounin cautious, they were nevertheless glad that he made it out alright, if not entirely the same as before. They were also disturbed when Naruto told them how their bloodline works but were open-minded enough to know that Naruto is still the same ramen-loving boy they always knew. Seeing him almost literally inhale enough ramen to feed several people only reaffirmed that belief.

Speaking about Naruto, they were pleasantly surprised to realize that Midori likes the boy as much as he likes her although it was admittedly not surprising considering that he had saved her. They were also a bit surprised that Naruto respected her preference for fermented foodstuff such as yogurt, miso, natto, cheese and bread, even stale bread. Seeing Midori devouring a cheese and natto sandwich, after having a bowl of ramen of course, the brown-haired and brown-eyed young woman named Ayame had to say, "I know you won't fall sick easily and that you like eating it, Midori-chan, but that sandwich just doesn't look too healthy."

Blinking at Ayame with sticky strands of natto and cheese trailing from her mouth to her sandwich, Midori swallowed before wiping the natto strands staining her mouth and said, "Maybe, but I don't think Naruto-kun's appetite is all that healthy either." Pointing at Naruto who was already eating his twentieth bowl of ramen with her thumb, Midori had made her point.

"There is that," replied Ayame. Naruto's appetite for ramen can put even the generally overweight and ever-hungry Akamaichi clan to shame.

After eating their meal, the two children left the ramen stand and made their way to Naruto's apartment. However, along the way they inevitably drew the attention of the villagers that live in Konohagakure, including the majority that hate Naruto. Literally feeling the burning hateful glares, Midori could not help but fearfully wonder what kind of person Naruto would have become if he did not have people who do care for him. Shaking her head to dispel that unpleasant thought, she then silently swore, "I will help Naruto-kun earn his recognition. It's the least I can do for him."

-Chapter Fin-

Note: Chapter 0 had undergone a minor rewrite as I admit that Naruto's confession about the Kyuubi is indeed a bit fast and made a few improvements. If you like it as much as before the rewrite or more, the rewrite will stay. As for anyone questioning about Sakura's jealously, it can be either because she subconsciously likes/appreciates the boy and is unhappy that she had lost him or because she is jealous that a dead-last like him found reciprocated love while she herself has yet to get any from her Sasuke-kun. Personally, I think it's the latter as she made it clear that she does not like Naruto (at least before she got to know him better but still does not consider him as her beloved) and could not bring herself to kill Sasuke even after realizing just how far he had fallen but to each their own. At any rate, I hope you enjoy the chapter and the changes I made to the Wave mission (which is admittedly anticlimactic).