Chapter 7

2 weeks after Sasuke and Hinata's first date, Team 7 assembled in the Hokage's office. Naruto was complaining about the quality of missions that they were receiving.

"Come on Gramps why can't we get sent on any real missions? I'm tired of finding cats and other simple tasks like that, I need some real action. How am I ever going to become Hokage if you keep holding me there" Naruto complained. Hiruzen sighed.

"Naruto-kun you do those missions because those are the missions that Genin are expected to do. D-rank missions may not be the most exciting, but they still need to get done" He said with a tempered tone.

Naruto made a face and was prepared to say something when he was suddenly grabbed by Kakashi. The masked nin gave Naruto a stern look before turning towards the Hokage.

"With all do respect Hokage-sama, I believe that my team is more than qualified for a C-rank mission. A trip outside of the village will be a great experience for them besides you already sent Kurenai's team on a C-rank mission, it's only fair" Kakashi said.

Naruto beamed at Kakashi and looked towards the Hokage with excitement. Sakura had a nervous smile on her face. Sasuke just gave a smirk knowing what was coming. Hiruzen just sighed again before relenting.

"If you say they're ready then there's no reason to deny them a higher rank mission. How about I give you one right now?" Hiruzen asked before clapping his hands. A door opened revealing a old man who appeared to be drunk. He stumbled into the room with a bottle in his hand and gave everybody a look.

"This is Tazuna. He's a master bridge builder from the Land of Waves. He needs to be escorted back to his village so that he can finish the construction of a bridge. See that he gets there safely" Hiruzen ordered. Team 7 nodded and were walking towards the door, but the man's voice had everyone turn to him.

"Wait you're going to have 3 kids on this mission. I don't think they're qualified for a mission like this. Especially the short boy there" Tazuna said arrogantly.

Naruto began to laugh before remembering that Sasuke was taller than him, and Sakura was definitely not a boy. He face then turned red in embarrassment. Kakashi quickly grabbed Naruto before he could lunge at Tazuna.

"How dare you insult me. Don't you know I'm the future Hokage!? I can handle something as simple as escorting your drunk old butt to your stupid village" Naruto said struggling against Kakashi's grip.

"Now, now Naruto, it wouldn't be right if we injure our client" Kakashi advised while still keeping Naruto away from Tazuna.

"Yeah well we'll see. Don't blame me if you get hurt" Tazuna said finishing the rest of his bottle.

"I assure that this group will get you to your home safely" Hiruzen said trying to diffuse the situation.

"Enough idle chat, lets get this mission started. The sooner we leave, the sooner we get back" Sasuke said plainly. He was inwardly excited for his rematch with Haku. Kakashi heard this and couldn't resist the opportunity to tease his favorite student.

"Oh calm down Sasuke, I'm sure we won't be gone too long. You'll be back here with Hinata before you know it" Kakashi said with a teasing smile behind his mask.

Sasuke blushed a little, much to the amusement of everyone in the room, but before Naruto could say something to add to Sasuke's flustered state; Sasuke activated his Sharingan and glared daggers at Kakashi.

Even Hiruzen had to admit that Sasuke had an impressive glare for a 13 year old.

"Alright lets get going, see you Hokage-sama" Kakashi said while walking out of the room a little faster than necessary.

Naruto and Sakura laughed before following their sensei. Tazuna was looking at Sasuke with amazement, but when Sasuke's red glare reached him, he decided to follow the others out of the room.

Sasuke looked at the Hokage, and deactivated his Sharingan.

"Thank you for the mission" Sasuke said simply. Then he turned and walked out of the Hokage's office leaving behind the amused Sarutobi.

XxXxXx

While Team 7 and Tazuna were walking out of the village they ran into Team 8 who were just returning from their own mission. They all stopped to acknowledge each other.

"Hey Kakashi where is your team going?" Kurenai asked.

"Oh we're just escorting this man to the Land Of Waves, nothing major" Kakashi replied casually.

While the Jonin were talking, all the Genin engaged in their own conversation.

"Hey guys!" Kiba said loudly addressing Naruto, Sakura and Sasuke. Ever since Hinata and Sasuke began dating officially weeks prior, Team 7 and Team 8 spent a lot of time together. They often ate together at Ichiraku's and sparred together on a few occasions; they've all become friends.

"Hey Kiba" Naruto said just as loudly as he pet Akamaru. Sakura gave a quieter 'hi' and Sasuke just nodded silently.

Hinata gave Sakura and Naruto hugs before going to hug Sasuke. When the embrace ended she stayed by his side and Sasuke wrapped his arm around her.

"How did your mission go Hinata?" Sasuke asked just loud enough for Hinata to hear.

"It was easy. There were no unexpected complications at we got our mission done on time. Where are you guys going?" Hinata replied resting her head on Sasuke's shoulder while asking her own question.

"Just taking this drunk bum to the Land of Waves, nothing major" Sasuke replied ignoring the look Tazuna gave him and mocking Kakashi. Hinata giggled before she noticed something moving on Sasuke's other shoulder.

"Sasuke look" Hinata said pointing at his shoulder and giving him a bright smile. Sasuke looked at his shoulder to see a beetle. Sasuke looked confused for a moment and tensed his hand as if he was going to squash the bug.

Feeling Sasuke's hand tense, Hinata quickly grabbed it and intertwined their fingers to stop him. Sasuke looked at Hinata with mild annoyance, but didn't take his hand away from hers.

"Its Shino's guard bug. That means he's watching over you too!" Hinata said with clear enthusiasm.

Sasuke gave a look of understanding as he looked for Shino. He found the bug lover standing next to Naruto, Sakura and Kiba, but neither of them seemed to notice his presence. Sasuke didn't think that the Aburame's protection was necessary, but he did want to thank him for the gesture.

"Thank you Shino" Sasuke said genuinely. Shino turned to him and gave him a small nod.

"No need to thank me. Just come back safely" Shino responded.

Sasuke didn't remember interacting much with Shino in his old life, but he's realizing that the bug lover wasn't annoying and he was actually tolerable. He was probably the only one in the rookie nine that was quieter than Sasuke himself, and based on the sparring sessions he was a strong fighter for a Genin. Sasuke decided to trust him for an important task.

"Shino I need you to protect Hinata. Naruto and I are going on a mission, and Neji is already on a mission. You're the only other person I trust to keep Hinata safe. Do you think that you can do that for me?" Sasuke asked.

"You don't even need to ask, I was going to do that anyway" Shino replied casually causing Sasuke to smirk at him.

"Okay everyone we're leaving now" Kakashi announced.

Naruto and Sakura said their goodbyes to Team 8. Sasuke nodded at Kiba and Shino, then poked Hinata's forehead. Hinata pouted causing Sasuke to chuckle quietly and kiss the spot that he poked.

"Stay safe" Hinata said blushing.

"Hn. Of course we'll be back" Sasuke said while he was walking away.

XxXxXx

When they were a good distance from the village Sakura and Naruto decided to tease Sasuke.

"I saw you kiss Hinata's forehead Bastard. Why didn't you kiss her lips, you looked like a total whimp in front of everyone" Naruto teased before Sakura smacked the back of his head.

"Shut up Naruto! That's improper. I think that you and Hinata's relationship is so cute Sasuke-kun, but do you always kiss her before either of you go on missions?" Sakura asked with a sly smile trying to sound innocent.

Sasuke simply ignored his teammates as he looked down and saw a puddle. Sasuke sighed knowing that Kakashi saw it too and was going to test them. Sasuke didn't find any amusement in Kakashi's games.

Sasuke activated his Sharingan and felt the chakra of the Demon Brothers closing in on Kakashi. Sasuke rolled his eyes and gathered a little bit of his Chakra.

"FIRE STYLE: PHOENIX FLOWER JUTSU."

Sasuke sent mini fireballs at both of the Demon Brothers who had jumped out of their hiding spots with the intention of ambushing Kakashi. Both brothers were struck by the fire and were knocked back in surprise.

Sakura instantly took a kunai out and stood in front of Tazuna in order to protect him, Kakashi stayed still and watched. When Naruto noticed the enemy ninja, he smirked.

"You picked the wrong group to attack, I'm the future Hokage" Naruto said boldly forming the hand signs for his favorite jutsu.

"MULTI SHADOW CLONE JUTSU" Naruto shouted as 200 Naruto clones surrounded each of the Demon Brothers.

The fight was supremely one sided and the end result left the two missing nin tied against a tree. Kakashi was impressed that his team handled the situation so well.

"Sakura, good job getting in front of Tazuna to protect him. The client is always the most important thing of the mission. Naruto, good job apprehending the attackers. These were Chunin level missing nin from kirigakure, so the fact that you took them down means that you're developing well. Sasuke, way to notice their presence. They masked their chakra pretty well for Chunin, the fact that you were able to detect them is great" Kakashi said praising his team with a smile on his masked face.

Then he turned to the nervous looking Tazuna with a stern face.

"Mind explaining what these two were doing attacking an bridge builder, and why this is only categorized as a C-rank mission?" Kakashi asked unamused.

Tazuna broke down and explained how Gato, an evil businessman, didn't want the bridge to finish construction and had hired assassins to kill him. He also explained how he didn't have enough money to pay for the mission to be any higher than a C-rank mission.

Kakashi sighed and looked at his team. The difficulty of the mission just increased exponentially, but Kakashi wasn't too worried because of how well his team responded to the Demon Brothers ambush. He had faith that they would be ready for any obstacles headed their way.

"Well kids, this just became an A-rank mission. Do you want to continue this mission and help Tazuna out?" Kakashi asked his team.

Sakura had a determined look on her face as she nodded. Naruto's excited squeal was all the confirmation that Kakashi needed to know that he was continuing the mission. Sasuke had a bored expression on his face as he gave a nod.

"Then it's settled. Tazuna we'll escort you to your village and protect you until the bridge has finished construction" Kakashi said.

Tazuna gave a grateful nod and the group continued walking, but now they were all on high alert.

XxXxXx

When they neared a lake, Kakashi and Sasuke both stopped. They noticed the presence of a powerful shinobi at nearly the same time. Sensing that he was discovered the man threw his sword into a tree and appeared on top of it.

"Hm leaf shinobi. I have no quarrel with you, but if you don't hand over the bridge builder then I'll kill you all" the man said. He had bandages wrapped around his face and neck, he had a Hidden Mist head protector on with a line scratched out in the middle, but the most importantly he had a gigantic blade.

Kakashi raised his headband revealing his Sharingan. He knew who this man was because of him having the executioner's blade and he knew that he had to take this fight seriously.

"Zabuza Momochi, the Demon of the Hidden Mist, One of the Seven Ninja Swordsman. Gato must be very rich if he managed to employ a shinobi of your caliber" Kakashi said addressing the man.

"Kids stay back and guard Tazuna, this man is far too powerful for any of you to handle. He's killed many without remorse, including children" Kakashi said warning his team.

"Kakashi of the Sharingan, known to have copied over a thousand different jutsu. It is an honor to run into you, and it will be an honor to kill you as well" Zabuza said charging at Kakashi.

Sasuke watched as the battle played out exactly as it did in his previous life. The Mist was as thick as he remembered, but he could still see the fight between Kakashi and Zabuza. He smirked to himself when he saw that Kakashi was trapped in the Water Prison jutsu.

"Naruto, Sakura come here I have a plan" Sasuke said. Naruto ran over to his best friend and listened to his plan before smiling widely. Sakura just nodded, she had faith in Sasuke's plan.

Unaware of the plotting Genin, Zabuza was content on mocking the recently captured Kakashi.

"Well Kakashi, it seems like you've been trapped. Now you'll have to watch as I kill you're team and your client" Zabuza as he created a Water clone and sent it to attack Team 7. Noticing the clone headed towards them, Sakura ran right in front of Tazuna in order to protect him.

"Don't bother wasting your time protecting me, save yourself" Tazuna said not willing to watch a little girl die in order to save him.

"Don't worry about me, just watch this" Sakura said with a determined look gripping the two giant shuriken she had in her hand.

The Zabuza clone advanced towards Sakura and Tazuna while looking around. He noticed that the two other brats were missing, but he soon shrugged. He decided that if they ran away, then it saved him the trouble of killing them.

"Alright girl, step aside now and I'll kill you quickly" the Zabuza clone said. He stopped to dodge the two shuriken that Sakura had thrown at him. He was about to gloat when he realized that the shuriken were heading straight towards the real Zabuza with deadly accuracy.

The real Zabuza watched as the two shuriken headed towards him. He wasn't worried about the two shuriken in the slightest and even lifted up his free hand as if he was going to catch them, then his eyes widened when he saw the Shuriken transform into the two brats from Kakashi's team.

Sasuke and Naruto gave Zabuza twin smirks before beginning their assault on him. They kicked him in the air instantly dispelling the water trap on Kakashi, and they continued to kick him until they flipped over Zabuza in order to complete their twin attack.

"UZUMAKI BARRAGE."

"LION'S BARRAGE."

Zabuza covered his face as Sasuke's kick and Naruto's punch sent him soaring back towards the ground at an incredible speed resulting in a giant splash.

By the time Zabuza recovered and reached the surface he saw that Kakashi had already defeated his Water clone and he and the two kids that attacked him were standing there waiting for him. Never one to give up, Zabuza began to weave signs for his Jutsu unaware that he was being copied.

"WATER STYLE: WATER DRAGON JUTSU" Kakashi and Zabuza both shouted at the same time causing twin water dragons to erupt from the lake and crash into each other. Kakashi then sent another powerful water jutsu that launched Zabuza into a nearby tree.

Zabuza gasped in pain and the tree splintered from the force. He then felt 4 kunai dig into his skin rendering him immobile. He looked to the side to see Kakashi on nearby tree branch with a kunai in his hand.

"This is your last battle... ever" Kakashi said as he prepared to end the man's life, but he never got the chance as 2 senbon penetrated Zabuza's neck seemingly killing him.

Kakashi looked over to the adjacent tree branch to see a ninja in a mask with his arm still out, signifying that they were the one to do it.

"Thank you for weakening him enough for me to finish him. I'm taking his body back to the Mist village" the smmoth feminine voice said simply before taking Zabuza's body and disappearing from sight.

Naruto and Sakura were surprised and didn't know whether or not they should give chase. Sasuke was holding himself back from chasing Haku. Their fight would come soon and Sasuke was itching for the rematch. Kakashi just seemed satisfied that they fight was over.

He turned and smiled at his team. He was about to say something, but collapsed due to overstraining his Sharingan. Sasuke rolled his eyes and caught Kakashi's body before he hit the ground. He had forgotten about how low Kakashi's stamina was during his childhood. During the war, Kakashi had his Sharingan active the entire battle, and had even managed to keep his Mangekyou active for a decent amount of time.

"Lets get him to my house, it's not far from here. And thank you for saving me... All of you" Tazuna said with an apologetic glance towards Naruto.

"No problem old man Tazuna, its my duty as future Hokage keep the client safe no matter what, Believe It" Naruto said ignoring the looks that Sakura and Sasuke gave him. Tazuna smiled and began to lead the kids to his house.

XxXxXx

When they arrived, they were greeted by Tazuna's daughter Tsunami, and his grandson Inari.

"Grandpa you're back" Inari said excitedly before noticing the group of people with him. "Who are they?" Inari asked rudely pointing at Team 7.

"They are the shinobi that saved me from certain death, and they're going to stay here and continue to protect us until I finish the construction of the bridge" Tazuna said rubbing his grandson's head.

Inari assessed every member of Team 7 individually. The girl didn't seem like she would be able to protect herself, let alone anyone else. The silver haired on was passed out on the black haired boy's back, so he obviously wasn't strong enough to protect them. The black haired boy looked cool, and seemed to be strong because he was carrying the grown man, but looks could be deceiving so Inari wasn't impressed. The blonde haired boy just looked stupid to him.

"They don't look all that impressive. Especially the blonde kid with the whiskers" Inari said rudely while crossing his arms instantly angering Naruto.

"Hey Kid take that back. Do you what kind of battle we just endured? And do you know who I am?" Naruto asked. Inari just shrugged his shoulders.

"It doesn't matter. You won't be able to defeat anyone who actually matters. If father failed then you will too. You might as well go home" Inari responded sticking his tongue out at Naruto who looked like he was ready to strangle the kid. Even Sakura had a vein protruding from her forehead. Sasuke simply ignored the kid and sat Kakashi down on the mat that Tazuna had set for him.

"Inari apologize. These shinobi protected your grandfather and are going tp protect us. Be grateful that they're here to help us out" Tsunami said scolding her son.

"Psh whatever. Sorry I guess" Inari said walking out of the room.

"Sorry about Inari's behavior. He's been a different kid ever since his step father Kaiza was killed by Gato. He means well, but he's just lost hope that things will be any different" Tsunami said trying to explain Inari's rude behavior.

"It's no problem. His words didn't bother anyone, now can you please show us to our room?" Sasuke asked. Tsunami nodded with a smile and led Sasuke to the room.

'Speak for yourself' Naruto and Sakura thought in unison as they followed Sasuke and Tsunami to their room.

XxXxXx

The next day Kakashi woke up and addressed his team.

"I like the way you guys handled the situation with Zabuza. I'm glad that I can depend on you guys when I'm in a tough situation, but we need to go train. I have a feeling that we'll need to fight again soon" Kakashi said while standing up grabbing his crutches.

Sasuke remembered the type of training Kakashi gave them at this point, and he was not looking forward to wasting time walking up trees. Once they arrived at the training fields, Kakashi was explaining how imperative it was to learn how to control chakra. He walked up a tree and hung upside down to show an example of chakra control. Naruto just looked at him in confusion.

"Kaka-sensei how does walking up trees help us fight Zabuza?" Naruto asked.

"If you master this then you can master any jutsu now enough questions, begin!" Kakashi said as he looked at his 3 students.

"This is waste of time, but whatever" Sasuke said as he casually walked up the tree and stood next to Kakashi. Naruto and Sakura looked at each other and shrugged before following Sasuke's example.

Kakashi's visible eye widened in shock as he saw his pupils all standing next to him upside down on the tree branch.

"Now can we master any jutsu? Naruto asked excitedly as he jumped up and down on the branch causing Kakashi to sweat drop.

"Eh not quite we also have to find out your chakra affinities so that we can know what Jutsu to teach you" Kakashi said as he walked back down the tree with his team following him step for step.

"How do we do that?" Naruto asked curiously eager to learn different jutsu.

"We have to wait until we return to the village to get the materials. You guys are more advanced than I thought you were" Kakashi complimented.

"Well you're always late for training, so we work on things while you're not there. We also train in the Uchiha District with Team 8 and Neji-kun from time to time. It's only natural that we'd progress" Sakura said blushing after mentioning Neji's name.

Naruto was about to tease Sakura, but Sasuke beat him to it.

"Your face matches your hair Sakura. Don't tell me you like the Hyuuga" Sasuke said bluntly but the teasing was obvious in his tone.

Everyone's jaw dropped at Sasuke teasing Sakura, but Naruto quickly recovered and joined in.

"Yeah Sakura-chan. First the Bastard, and now Neji-baka? You must really like people with strange eye powers" Naruto said laughing ignoring the glare from Sasuke.

Naruto was laughing so hard that he didn't notice the approaching shadow until it was to late. Sakura had punched Naruto so hard that he broke through the tree that they had just walked down. Naruto was hurt, but not severely and rubbed the bump on his head. He looked over to see that Sasuke was looking at him with an evil smirk.

"Hey that's no fair Sakura-chan. Why didn't you hit Sasuke too?" Naruto asked pouting.

"I tried, but he dodged me. You were an easier target" Sakura replied with the vein still visible in her forehead.

Kakashi just laughed at his teams antics before he joined the conversation himself.

"I remember when we were spying on Sasuke and Hinata's first date. You and Neji were hiding together. You both had identical blushes on your faces and you didn't even talk to each other. It was pretty cute if you ask me" Kakashi said smiling as Sakura's face turned a darker shade of pink than her hair.

"Can we please stop talking about this" Sakura asked trying to escape the teasing. Kakashi was about to refuse, but when he looked at Sasuke he got another idea.

"Sure. Sasuke how's your relationship with Hinata?" Kakashi asked trying to sound innocent. Sasuke frowned at the change in the discussion topic, but decided to answer.

"It's fine. It'll be a month in 2 weeks so I'd like to be done with this mission by then" Sasuke said.

'Awwww' Sakura thought when she heard Sasuke say that. She wanted to say something about how sweet that was, but she knew better than to do that around Sasuke. Kakashi, however, didn't care.

"Aww that's so cute Sasuke, you must really like her huh?" Kakashi said teasingly. Sasuke's eyes turned red almost instantly after hearing the word 'Aww'. He kicked Kakashi's injured leg which led to a shriek of pain from the Jonin.

Naruto and Sakura laughed as Kakashi hopped around on 1 foot.

"Alright kids our training is done. Dinner is in an hour so be there when it starts" Kakashi said hobbling away from his team. Sakura took a few steps to follow Kakashi, but stopped when she realized Naruto and Sasuke weren't moving.

"Aren't you guys coming?" Sakura asked.

"Nah, go ahead without us Sakura-chan. We'll be at Tazuna's for dinner don't worry" Naruto said with a smile. Sasuke just nodded.

Sakura didn't even question them. She was too used to them training alone, so she simply smiled and followed Kakashi back to Tazuna.

XxXxXx

Once they were alone, Sasuke led Naruto into the nearby woods. He had told Naruto that they were going to train, but Sasuke had another reason for going. After arriving he noticed that his reason for going was already there with a basket in their hands; Sasuke stopped moving and simply stared.

Naruto wondered what Sasuke was staring at so he turned to look in the same direction. Naruto's jaw dropped as he saw the most beautiful creature he'd ever seen. Naruto looked at every angle of the person holding the basket in front of them. From their hair to their toes the person was pure perfection in Naruto's eyes.

"Hello I'm Haku, what are your names and what are you doing out here in the woods?" Haku said with an angelic voice that made Naruto feel like he was flying.

"I'm N-Naruto U-Uzumaki and uh, we, umm training, ya know" Naruto said with a dark blush on his face fumbling with his words. Sasuke turned to look at his best friend with an eyebrow raised, while Haku chuckled making Naruto blush even more.

"Sasuke and what the idiot was trying to say is that we're out here for training" Sasuke said still looking at Naruto's flustered face.

"Training huh? You must be Shinobi...yes I can tell by your headbands. That's a dangerous lifestyle you're living, but I'm sure you already know that. Do you two want to know the way to obtain true power?" Haku asked.

Sasuke was geniunely surprised. He wasn't around for Haku and Naruto's meeting in his first life, he had come a little after Haku left and walked straight past her without a second glance. She didn't seem like the bad person he originally thought she was.

"What is it?" Naruto asked with curiosity.

"True power comes from having someone to protect. They give you strength when you need it the most" Haku said with certainty in her voice.

Naruto smiled and nodded when she said that. He agreed whole heartedly that having people to protect can make a person stronger.

Sasuke was surprised that Haku thought that, but then he thought back to when she died in his past life. She jumped in front of Kakashi's Chidori in order to protect Zabuza. He had heard from Naruto on the return to the village all about how Haku was misjudged and that she really wanted peace, but Sasuke ignored him because she didn't seem real peaceful when she was making him a human porcupine.

Still Sasuke couldn't help, but find truth in Haku's statement. He wouldn't admit it out loud, but he always felt stronger when he was fighting for someone else. Sasuke was starting to rethink his plan to kill Haku. She was proving to be a victim of circumstance... Just like he was.

"You're right. That definitely does give a large boost in power, but I have a question" Sasuke said causing Haku to look at him.

"What is your purpose in life?" Sasuke asked looking right into Haku's eyes.

"I live to protect my master. I will go wherever he goes and serve him; I'll gladly give my life if it means that he will live and achieve his goals" Haku said without hesitation.

Naruto pouted a little when he heard that. Never being one to hold his tongue, he vocalized his thoughts.

"So is the 'master' of yours like your boyfriend or something?" Naruto asked internally wishing that she'd say no.

"No he's actually more like an older brother or a father figure. I'm only 14 and he's 26 so it would be strange if we were like that wouldn't you think" Haku said noticing Naruto sigh in relief before letting a giant smile bloom on his face.

Haku looked at the blond haired boy and chuckled. She could tell that he was attracted to her, and she actually thought that he was kinda cute, however, she couldn't afford to let her personal feelings get in the way of Zabuza's plans.

"Who is this person that you're so devoted too?" Sasuke asked. He already knew the answer, but he wanted to see if Haku would trust them with the information.

"It's not important. Anyway I should probably get going now, he's probably waiting for me to return" Haku said as she turned to walk away. She took a few steps before turning to address Naruto and Sasuke.

"You two will definitely become strong, very strong. I can feel it... I hope I can meet you again someday" Haku said smiling before turning around and walking away.

Naruto watched Haku walk away until she was out of sight then he turned to Sasuke who had a teasing smirk on his face.

"Hn. It seems like you have a crush on Haku huh" Sasuke said still smirking.

"Duh Bastard, she's the prettiest girl I've ever seen. She's even prettier than Sakura and Hinata! The next time I see her I'm going to tell her I like her. BELIEVE IT!" Naruto exclaimed immediately wiping the smirk off his face.

"What did you just say loser?" Sasuke asked, his voice lowering dangerously.

Naruto heard the playfulness fade out of Sasuke's voice, but he was too smitten to pay it any mind.

"I said that she's prettier than Sakura and Hinata" Naruto repeated, Sasuke was had a hold of his collar instantly. Naruto gulped as he stared at Sasuke's glowing red eyes. He didn't know what he did to anger Sasuke, but he was currently in no position to defend himself.

"Let me make one thing clear to you Naruto. No one is prettier than Hinata. I don't care about what your personal opinion is about Haku, but don't you ever let me hear you saying that her or anyone else is prettier than Hinata" Sasuke said before throwing his best friend to the ground roughly.

Naruto looked up at his best friend with a mixture of fear and confusion, but he soon had a look of realization before laughing.

"You're soo whipped bastard hahahaha" Naruto said rolling on the ground. Sasuke just scoffed and looked away.

"Whatever loser, lets head back. I don't feel like training with you anymore" Sasuke said walking away without waiting for a response.

Naruto, who was still laughing, simply stood up and followed his best friend to Tazuna's home.

XxXxXx

A few days later Team 7 walked with Tazuna to the bridge. The bridge was scheduled to be completed that day and Tazuna couldn't have been happier, but when they arrived he saw that all of his employees had been rendered unconscious.

"What! Who could have done this?" Tazuna said tremebling, but he was soon answered by a thick fog that covered the area.

"It's Zabuza. Guys guard Tazuna" Kakashi said as he lifted his forehead protector revealing his Sharingan.

As soon as Kakashi's Sharingan activated, 5 Zabuza water clones surrounded Team 7 and Tazuna.

"We meet again Kakashi. This time will be different, these brats won't be able to help you" The Zabuza clones said in unison.

Kakashi just laughed to himself as he turned to Sasuke.

"Go ahead and take them out Sasuke" Kakashi said cheerfully. Sasuke smirked and in the blink of an eye the 5 Zabuza water clones were defeated.

The real Zabuza, who appeared in the fog with the masked ninja that saved him, was mildly impressed, but he wasn't worried in the slightest. Turning to his masked comrade he spoke.

"Seems like you have a rival Haku."

Naruto's eyes widened when he heard the masked ninja's name.

"So it seems" The same angelic voice from a few days ago spoke.

Naruto was shocked. The girl that seemed so nice and pure was teaming with the Demon of the Hidden Mist. Naruto couldn't stop the burst of emotion that escaped his mouth.

"Why are you working with someone like him Haku? He kills mercilessly... that's not the type of person you are" Naruto said with his voice full of emotion. Haku simply sighed and removed her mask revealing her beautiful face.

"That may be true, but I live to follow Master Zabuza's will. As I have told you before, I will do anything for him whether I want to or not" Haku said.

"Enough talk Haku take care of the two boys. I'll handle Kakashi" Zabuza commanded as he charged towards Kakashi. Naruto moved to intercept, but he was kicked aside by Haku.

She tried to follow up her attack by throwing 2 senbon at Naruto's neck. Naruto looked up in fear for a moment, but the senbon were caught by Sasuke who appeared in front of Naruto suddenly.

Haku was mildly surprised by Sasuke's speed, but she didn't stop her attack. She didn't like having to use this jutsu, but it was the quickest way to kill them. She didn't want to prolong their suffering.

"DEMONIC MIRRORING ICE CYRSTALS" Haku said as a dome of Ice surrounded Sasuke and Naruto trapping them.

Sasuke stood up and activated his Sharingan. Naruto stood up as well and had a sorrowful look on his face.

"Haku please stop this. I don't want to hurt you" Naruto pleaded with her as her form appeared in one of the ice mirrors.

"I don't want to hurt you either Naruto, but I have my orders. I'll try to make this as quick and as painless as possible" Haku said as she prepared it throw senbon at the two boys.

Naruto simply frowned and formed the hand signs for his signature jutsu.

"MULTI SHADOW CLONE JUTSU" Naruto shouted as 200 Naruto clones appeared out of the smoke and attacked aiming to break the mirrors. They were all bombarded by seemingly endless needles. Sasuke watched Haku's movements with his Sharingan. Her speed was impressive, but to him it seemed like she was moving in slow motion. He studied her for minutes waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike.

His eyes widened as he saw a perfect moment. Haku was in the air poised to strike the final shadow clone. Sasuke smirked as he took a deep breath.

"FIRE STYLE: FIREBALL JUTSU" Sasuke fired the fireball that destroyed the final Naruto clone and crashed into Haku.

She managed to block the attack successfully, but the force of the attack sent her flying back crashing through her Ice Mirrors and dispelling the jutsu.

Haku stood up with a few burn marks on her skin. Naruto couldn't help but still find beauty in Haku's injured form, but he tried to keep his mind clear in case she attacked them again.

"Haku please stop this. If we don't stop soon then one of us could end up dying and I don't want that"" Naruto said trying to convince Haku. She looked at him with sad eyes , but she didn't say a word. She took out more senbon in preparation for a attack.

Sasuke admired Haku's tenacity, but he knew that she would never be able to beat him at his current level. He could also see the pain on Naruto's face as he continued to try to her out of fighting against them. Sasuke decided then and there that he would do everything in his power to make sure Haku survives this time around.

"Haku, we all know that you don't want to do this. Think about it, we don't need to fight anymore" Sasuke said joining with Naruto to try to convince her of stopping.

Haku looked at both Naruto with pain in her eyes. They could tell that she didn't want to fight them anymore and she was visibly conflicted on what to do. She opened her mouth as if to speak, but she was cut off by Kakashi's shout.

"CHIDORI."

All 3 turned to see Zabuza pinned down by Kakashi's dog summons unable to move as Kakashi ran towards him with a strong deadly lightning chakra in his hands. Haku's body moved before Naruto could stop her. He blinked and saw Haku standing in front of Zabuza with her arms spread to shield him from the attack. He saw that Kakashi wasn't stopping.

"NO HAKU!" Naruto screamed as he tried to run towards Kakashi to stop him, but he knew he wouldn't make it in time. He saw Haku look at him and give him a quick smile before closing her eyes accepting her fate.

Then blood flew into the air.

XxXxXx

Haku was confused. She had thought that the lighting blade would've pierced through her chest by now, but she could tell that she hadn't been touched. She opened her eyes to see Sasuke standing in front of her and Zabuza with Kakashi's hand through his shoulder.

Sasuke grimaced as he could feel his flesh burning as he held off Kakashi's Chidori. Upon noticing that he had pierced Sasuke, Kakashi's eyes widened as he jerked his hand out of Sasuke's body making the Uchiha fall back towards the ground.

He then proceeded to press his hands on Sasuke's wound in order to stop the blood. As soon as Kakashi managed to stop the blood gushing from Sasuke's wound he spoke.

"Sasuke why would you do that? They were enemy shinobi, why did you sacrifice your body to protect them?" Kakashi asked as he looked at Sasuke's downed form.

Sasuke coughed a little in an effort to hold of the pain. Sasuke may have had a hole in his shoulder, but he knew he would live. He'd been through much worse after all, then he remembered something important. That was the shoulder that Shino's guard bug was on.

'Damn. Shino's gonna tell Hinata that something happened. Now she's going to be freaking out until I get back. Hopefully I at least make it back by our 1 month' Sasuke thought as he laid on the ground.

"Because the true power of a shinobi comes when they have someone to protect" Sasuke said repeating the words that Haku had told he and Naruto earlier. Haku looked at Sasuke with tears in her eyes threatening to fall as Sasuke just gave he her a bloodied smirk.

Sakura looked at Sasuke with tears flowing down her face, but she couldn't move to help him. Not with the threat of Zabuza still around.

Naruto also had tears as he looked at his best friend's body lay on the bridge. He wasn't fast enough, but Sasuke was. Sasuke had gotten hurt because he wasn't fast enough. Naruto had never felt so powerless in his life

"He'll be okay guys. He won't die, lets just finish this mission so that he can get patched up" Kakashi said turning back to Zabuza.

Once Zabuza got over his shock he began to laugh.

"Nice Kakashi, you've instilled in these kids what I have I instilled in Haku. They are nothing, but tools to be used by you whenever you need him. His life is insignificant, I'll be sure to finish him off when I'm done with you" Zabuza said while advancing towards Kakashi.

Sakura, Kakashi and Haku all looked at the man in horror, but before they could say anything Naruto spoke.

"How dare you" Naruto said with a voice so sinister that it made Zabuza stop in his tracks. He turned to look at the boy and froze when saw the sharp red eyes of Naruto.

Kakashi saw it too and instantly paled.

'Oh no the Kyuubi. This is not the time nor the place for Naruto to lose control' Kakashi thought to himself.

Naruto didn't seem to notice that his eyes became sharp or that a powerful red chakra swirled around him. He had tears in his eyes as he looked at Zabuza.

"How could you say something like that when the only reason why you're alive right now is because Haku cares for you enough to sacrifice her life for yours. Don't you realize that she looks up to you? And you said that she's only a tool to be used by you. You can't really believe that" Naruto said.

"Shut up.."

"No you shut up! Sasuke's hurt because he cares enough about me to protect someone that I care about. Sasuke saw that I wasn't going to make it in time to save Haku, so he did it himself and ended up with a hole in his shoulder" Naruto said cutting of Zabuza.

"He's hurt because he's weak" Zabuza said trying to cut off Naruto's speech.

"No he's hurt because he's strong unlike you. If you would've taken Kakashi-sensei's Chidori then you'd be dead right now. True strength doesn't come from using people or what you do on your own. True strength comes from having someone to protect" Naruto said.

Kakashi, Sakura and Haku smiled at Naruto's words and Zabuza froze thinking back to when he first met Haku. He began going through his memories of his adventures with Haku over the years and how much stronger he's gotten after saving Haku. He began to realize that Naruto was right as he looked at the Blonde.

"You talk to much kid" Zabuza said.

"What? Do you still not understand I..." Naruto stopped talking when Haku grabbed his shoulder. He looked at her in confusion, but she was looking at Zabuza.

The man had tears in his eyes, as he walked towards Haku to rest a hand on her shoulder.

"You give me strength" Zabuza said simply as Haku's eyes widened as she began to tear up against her will. Kakashi, Sakura and Naruto all smiled at them, even Sasuke managed another smirk even though it pained him to do it.

The moment was interrupted by the arrival of Gato and a few hundred hired thugs.

"You shinobi make me sick. Can't even take down a bridge builder. I'll do it myself and I'll take down all of you as well. Then they'll be no one to stop me" Gato said with a sinister smirk on his face.

Kakashi and Zabuza looked at each other and smirked.

"Truce" Kakashi asked.

"Yeah. Truce" Zabuza agreed.

"Okay Naruto lets even the playing field" Kakashi said.

Naruto didn't need to be told twice as he made 300 clones of himself. Zabuza and Kakashi both contributed 50 clones each, while Sakura and Haku both readied themselves.

"Go get them boys" Gato ordered as the hundreds of goons charged at the shinobi.

XxXxXx

It was a very one sided battle that ended in Gato's capture. Afterwards they all returned to Tazuna's home in order to get Sasuke patched up. Inari apologized to everyone for his rude behavior and Naruto instilled an heroic sense in him. The bridge was completed 2 days after the defeat of Gato. Everyone were considered heroes of the village including Zabuza and Haku and Tazuna named the bridge 'The Great Naruto Bridge' much to the annoyance of Sasuke.

It was time for everyone to leave and everyone was eager to get back home, especially Sasuke. He only had 5 more days until his anniversary and he didn't want to miss it.

"It was a pleasure meeting you and your team Kakashi. They will grow up to be splendid shinobi. Hopefully we'll cross paths again someday" Zabuza said as he and Haku stood in front of Team 7.

Kakashi raised an eyebrow.

"What are you talking about? You're coming back to Konoha with us" Kakashi said shocking Zabuza and Haku.

"What? How? I'm a rouge ninja... Would we really be excepted in your village?" Zabuza asked.

"Of course! The Hokage might have Ibiki interrogate you to see if you're really on our side, but if you're willing to come then we'll be more than happy to take you. Besides Naruto's been begging me to let you and Haku come. Especially Haku" Kakashi replied causing Zabuza and Haku to look at Naruto.

Naruto blushed at being exposed by his Sensei, but smiled at them nonetheless. The smile was returned by Haku as the two shared eye contact. The moment was broken up by a very impatient Sasuke.

"I don't care whether or not you come with us, but I need to get back. If you're coming than come on I'm leaving now" Sasuke ordered walking away from the others. No none argued as they all walked after the hurt Uchiha.

XxXxXx

5 days later Team 7 made it back to Konoha with Zabuza and Haku. The team 8 Genin and Neji were waiting for them at the gates. Hinata run up to hug Sasuke.

"Shino told me his guard bug was destroyed, and I was so worried. What happened to your shoulder" Hinata said burying her face in Sasuke's chest.

Sasuke just laughed and pulled away before grabbing her hand and leading her towards the village.

"We'll talk about that later, but for now we have an anniversary to celebrate" Sasuke said walking away with a blushing Hinata.

Everyone just rolled their eyes at the couple. Neji walked up to Sakura and asked her questions about her mission. Sakura just blushed at the attention and answered all his questions.

Neji was satisfied he placed his hand on Sakura's shoulder and led her towards the village claiming that she needed food. No one questioned why both of their faces were a bright pink when they were walking away. Shino had already disappeared, but Kiba was staring at Haku.

"Woah who is this beauty" Kiba said nearly howling. Naruto was not having it.

"Back off Dog breath. She just got to the village, don't scare her off" Naruto said getting in Kiba's face.

Haku just chuckled and walked over the boys. She grabbed Naruto's hand and led him into the village leaving behind a whimpering Kiba.

Kakashi and Zabuza just watched the scene play out in front of them before looking at each other. They shook their head murmuring something about puppy love as they walked into the village ignoring Kiba.

TBC

This is the longest Chapter I've ever written. I'm sorry if it bothers you, but I just wanted to finish the 'Land Of Waves' arc in one chapter. Now let me clear some things up

I know that Haku is officially a boy in canon, but you can't tell me that you didn't think he was a girl at first. I made him a girl in this story so that I can give Naruto a unique pairing besides lets be honest, Naruto was crushing on Haku until he said he was a boy XD

2. If you're a guest Reviewer and you have a question can you please give me a name so that I can address you when I do Review answers? I don't want you guys to think I'm ignoring your questions, but I can't answer if I don't have a name

Httpsanime- thank you for reading and reviewing! Naruto did have a tiny crush on Sakura, but after this chapter I hope I made it obvious that he liked someone else

Kiss2lips- thank you. I don't understand all the Sakura hate, but I like her character. She will never get bashed in this fic

Crimson11116- Eventually

Splaaash-attack- thank you

JustQuokka- THANK YOU SO MUCH

Antex- The Legendary Zoroark- Thank you. I'm glad that you like the Neji/Sakura pairing

Please continue to read and review, and thank you for all of you guys' support! I really do appreciate it- Dishon 3