Nakuma: Crosses arms and smiles.: See! I'm good for something!
Shadow & Shiva: You actually remembered the next chapter we had written?
Nakuma: Nods: I remember them all, but it will take awhile to remember how they went exactly.
Shiva: I'm impressed.
Shadow: I'm suspicious....
Key:
((Author))
'Normal thoughts.'
Memories and or dreams
Memories in a person's point of view.
"Talking"
'Kyuubi, thought to Naru, same for Shukaku. Inner personals.'
'Thoughts for demon's.'
'Thoughts that are transferred.'
"Jutsu, spells, attacks, exclamations. Demon's speaking."
Time switch or change of view or lyrics.
Chapter: 8. The Vacation to Wave. The Reunion of the Demon Clan.
Last time! On Demon Customs!
She stood there watching them. Turning to the two of them she tilted her head. Looking at the ring on Itachi's finger she smiled childishly. "I see… You joined Akatsuki… Foolish. A group of traitors invite other traitors. When they may just be stabbed in the back by said traitors. You can never trust a betrayer… Or they will be betrayed. Right Itachi, dear?" She asked.
"Hai. Shadow-Dono. My Queen." He replied.
They were both rewarded by her childish laughter. "So tell me… How are things in the human realm?" She asked.
They both proceeded to explain everything to her.
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Unknown to any of them another watched the scene. Pale eyes locked onto the face of the female. While Crimson lips pulled into an insane grin. "Soon, my pet."
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Naruto yawned behind his hand. His eyes closed and mouth wide open in a cute fox like motion. A few seconds later he allowed his hand to fall down, and rested his head against the tree. He allowed his gaze to travel up and land on the bright blue sky. Calm slow moving, white clouds drifted into his vision. A few birds flew past every few minutes.
Kohona was just too… boring.
Others would say it was peaceful, but Naruto found it annoyingly boring. It made him question coming here, once again. He hated being bored. It was a sensation he could honestly say, he hated almost as much as useless meat sacks… And that was a deep hatred.
He missed training with Yukina. He missed spending time with Hinamori. He missed watching Haku take care of Zambuza. He missed Shiva, and her blank expressions. Mostly he missed watching her learn how to feel. It had been a big shock when Shiva had gained her humanity. He missed Temari, and her aggressive protective tendencies. She had truly taken to being his big sister. And he really missed his Gaara. He was probably out having fun. Ripping people open, and splashing all that wonderful blood on his sand. Mixing it together to make that wonderful scent of decay, sand, and death…
He sighed once more. Yes, he hated being in this boring place. Especially alone. Since the Team had been made he hadn't been able to see Hinata, nor Kiba lately…
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In his mind he thought of everything that had happened. It all began with that Survival Training. Everyone had showed up on time, only for Kakashi to be late. Luckily, Otou-san had warned him, so he had known the scarecrow would be late. He had eaten a big breakfast, and Yuki had been given his headband, marking him a member of Team 7.
He had gotten to the Training Ground, the same time as Haruno and the Uchiha. So they had sat there for at least three hours. Three hours of Sakura glaring, screeching, and trying to hit him on the head. Luckily after a glare from Sasuke she stopped. Although she continued glaring at him, she no longer tried to hit him. Beside the fact she was weak; the constant hits were annoying… She continued to talk to Sasuke. It would seem they already had a date, which Sasuke had no clue about. Their marriage planned, the engagement ring chosen, and their first 3 children named.
Naruto had decided he was clinging to Gaara and not letting go when he saw him next. Thank god, he was gay. Females scared him. Although his sisters, and Hinata weren't that bad. They were just terrifying, but for a completely different reason… Their insanity was brilliant. It actually made sense. Other females were just odd.
And that damned brat! Uchiha Sasuke. Naruto shivered as he remembered the final 'Genin exam'. He just kept starring. And smirking. And Naruto swore he saw little chibi's above Sasuke's head. The fact that Chibi Naru was always cuddled up to Chibi Sasuke pissed him off. He belonged to Gaara damn it! Sure he might not love the red head, but he did belong to him. Not some emo, annoying, power obsessed brat! Not to mention a Chibi Kakashi, Sakura, Kiba and Hinata were being tortured. Something was wrong with that boy… was that an Itachi chibi bowing to him?
Sakura had Chibi's as well. And it was the same only reversed. Chibi Naru was being tortured, while Chibi Sasuke was being loving to Chibi Sakura. And the black and white Sakura truly freaked him out. He didn't think anyone else saw her… She was like… he man…
Eventually Kakashi had shown up. The banshee screeched, the emo glared, and Naruto yawned. Que dramatic speech about lunch, bells, and time limit. Naruto wasn't stupid, so he didn't mention about eating breakfast. The scarecrow, would probably have punched him in the stomach or something. He decided to reveal it if he had to later. After that the timer went off, and the three split up. Naruto had merely jumped into the tree, near the scarecrow and thought it over.
Genin Team's, well most Shinobi teams, had three members technically four… So this was a trap to set them on each other. Well that proved that Kohona Nin's were at least sly and smart… If not missing a few screws. Realizing this, Naruto had to make a dangerous decision. The emo or the banshee? The banshee wouldn't listen to him; she would probably call him a demon or something… Not to mention he didn't want to be around the he/she. She could not really be a girl… she just wasn't pretty enough… The emo might listen to him… But he would have to deal with that stare… Naruto shuddered. There was something wrong with him… But if the brat agreed the pink thing would follow.
So… no choice really.
The perfect opportunity came not a few seconds after that. Naruto twitched slightly, as he watched the Uchiha attack Hatake. The Uchiha fighting style was, flamboyant to say the least. It would be easy to overpower them… Naruto blinked as the image came to mind. The scarecrow could easily push him back, making him land on his back and with his legs spread… Naruto held back a laugh. Oh, it was clear to see the little emo was gay now… Naruto shook the disturbing images from his head, and blinked as the emo was pulled underground. His head sticking out as he continued ranting and glaring. The scarecrow simply walked away.
Shaking his head he sighed mentally. The people, who always jumped before the rest of the team, were the first to die. Crossing his legs and arms as he sat on the branch he allowed his mind to think… Otou-San had told him he could only use human abilities while here, and on missions. Until the plans where complete he was human, as much as he detested it… And he couldn't use anything above A-Class. …It was possible then…
Getting the emo to join him was simple… Sasuke wanted to prove himself, and after his Naru explained everything to him, he agreed. Getting Sakura to join was even easier… She took one look at Sasuke and followed like the little bit-dog she was. All it took was a clone, some tricks, and illusions. As the bell rang and Kakashi was leading them to the post Naruto held up the bells. Handing them both to Sasuke and Sakura finished the little adventure. Yuki hadn't even been needed; he instead had slept by the tree Naruto had been in. Kakashi had told them about the Memorial Stone.
Naruto had visited the stone during his first week here. He already knew were his father's name was on the stone. Oddly enough his mother's hadn't been there. But then again she had been declared MIA. She was declared dead, but since they never found her body, they didn't know how she died… Thus, her name had not been placed on the stone.
Naruto had arched a brow at Kakashi's last statement. "Those who abandon their comrades are trash. Those who abandon their team mates are lower than trash." Naruto remembered Otou-San telling him about that. Apparently his father was known for that statement.
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Naruto shook the thoughts from his head, when he heard an annoying buzzing in his ear. He reached up a hand and flicked the device back on. Luckily, his was a new device, so it didn't come with the collar. He refused to take his own off for the spy one or any other reason. After arguing, Sarutobi had agreed to let Naruto try the new proto type. It stuck into your ear, and was sealed over with a gel like substance. Although it dried fast, and turned back to liquid once it was removed. The liquid then returned inside the small base compartment of the device.
Kakashi's voice came over the connection a second later. "Leader Duck, to his little ducklings, come in little ducklings. Over."
Sakura glanced over the tree she was hiding behind. Her eye twitched, and her fist clenched slowly. Her eyes locked on the target. "Pink Banshee Duckling. The target is in sight, 3.2 feet away. Over." She whispered slowly. Although she didn't particularly like her code name was not going to complain. After all, it was given to her by the love of her life. She was sure he meant it as a joke anyway…
(I got tired of Naruto and Kakashi always picking the names.)
Sasuke looked down from the tree branches he was hiding in. He crouched leaning forward slightly, to spring at the target. "Uchiha Avenger Duckling. Target in sight. 3 feet away. Over." He stated calmly. He allowed a slight smirk to cross his face after the pause that happened after that.
Naruto slipped from the tree, standing behind it and glaring at the target. It was so getting the blame for this! Naruto twitched and growled lowly before sighing. "Cute Little Kitsune. Target in sight, 4 feet away. Over." Naruto said through clenched teeth. 'Sasuke is never picking the code names again.' "And a Kitsune is not a Duckling Uchiha-San." He growled as an afterthought.
"Must have slipped my mind. And I told you to call me Sasuke-Kun." Was the careless reply.
Kakashi wasn't sure how to react. He should be annoyed that Sasuke disobeyed and changed the rules. He felt amusement at the irony of Naruto's name. And he wasn't sure if he should laugh about the situation or not. The basic Team Seven Love Triangle. Only this time, no one seemed to like the girl. It was a difference, but the team was basically the same. Only instead of a hyperactive loud idiot, there was a polite, sweet absent-minded blonde. He settled for shaking his head, and eye smiling. "Okay. Target confirmed. Move in and apprehend little ducklings." He said cheerfully.
Three separate heads nodded. A mere second later, two blurs dashed toward the area. A dark blue duck like one, from above. And a pink red monstrosity, going on the ground. They both landed near the target at the same time.
Said target's eyes had widened and it jerked its head toward the scary looking enemies. The target was then grabbed by the pink/red thing, and squeezed to a hard flat chest. It tried to squirm out, scratching and clawing. The creature let out a banshee screech that hurt the target's ears. The target was thrown to the ground while the creature whined, and cried. Looking around the target looked for an escape. That's when he spotted the Kitsune. He was dressed in Orange, and was smiling kindly. He also made the target feel safe and calm just seeing him. Without a second thought the target left the blue duck, and pink monster, and jumped into the Orange Kitsune's arms. The Kitsune also smelled nice.
Naruto looked down at the target in his arms. The cat was nuzzled into his arms and purring happily. He laughed a little, and ran his fingers through the cat's fur. Naruto grinned, and turned his attention to the other two. Sasuke had his arms crossed, and Sakura was still sniffling on the ground.
"Target captured." Naruto said.
Kakashi nodded, as he glanced through his book, leaning against the tree. "Are you sure this is the target, Tora? Ribbon on the left ear?" He asked lazily. 'Just how long is this cat going to live? I swear the Hokage was complaining about chasing it back when he was still a Genin.' He thought with a grimace. He himself still remembered that demon cat… Though he couldn't blame it…
"Yes, positive." Naruto's voice came over the ear piece.
Grinning happily, Kakashi snapped his book closed, placing his hand to the ear piece. "Excellent! Missing pet 'Tora' search mission… Complete!"
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"Ohh, my cute little Tora-Chan I was sooo worried." The woman cooed out, as she cuddled the cat to her chest. Said cat cried, and tried to get out of her arms. It was dying slowly dying… It hated this torture. Its eyes turned to the nice Kitsune. It whimpered, it wanted to be held by the boy again. He didn't try to kill him.
Sakura watched with a polite smile. Inside her mind however was a different picture. Inner Sakura was cheering and doing a war cry. 'HARDER. SQUEEZE IT HARDER. MAKE ITS EYES POP OUT OF ITS HEAD! MAKE IT SUFFER, SUFFER…' She shouted gleefully. Chibi Sakura was sitting on her shoulder and giggling.
Sasuke stood sideway, watching the scene in disinterest. This had all happened before. Only this time it had been Naruto to catch the cat. Usually he was the first to it. Although he felt disappointed that he hadn't completed the mission, he was happy that it was his Naru that did. And now he knew that his Kitsune liked cats. Perhaps, he could buy him a kitten. Yes, once his Naru acknowledged him that would be his first courting gift… A sweet cute little kitten, for his adorable Kitsune.
Naruto just watched sadly as the poor thing was tortured. He felt bad for it. It was no wonder it always ran away. He would have to make sure to look after it, next time. From the sound of things, the cat ran away a lot. Next time he would have to find it and let it hide out with him for a few days. Let the poor thing relax. He pushed the thoughts away however, as the cat whimpered to him. He smiled sadly. He couldn't do anything while it was with its owner…
Kakashi merely stood there with a blank expression. 'That poor cat…' He thought. He wondered if it would ever be free from that...woman… She might be the Fire Lords wife, but she wasn't the best with animals.
Sarutobi leant back in his chair. His pipe rested in his mouth, as the smoke swirled up and clung along the ceiling. He picked up a paper on his desk, and allowed his eyes to skim over it. "Now… Team Seven, led by Kakashi… Your next mission is…" He said trailing off and glancing over the paper once more. "Hmmm… Babysitting an elder's grandson… Shopping in the neighboring village… Help with the potato digging… And, helping Maito Gai find his missing outfit." He muttered.
Kakashi froze, and twitched slightly. 'His… outfit is missing? Then what...' Kakashi's face lost all color and he swayed slightly.
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A tall male went running down the street, with a bath robe on. Behind him was a mini him, in a green leotard. "Come LEE! Even if I have lost the outfit of YOUTH, we must still continue!" He shouted, as he turned his head and grinned at the other. His teeth glinting in the sunlight.
The mini him, nodded back, face serious. "Of course, sensei. That fact that you would continue even with only a robe, proves you are in the SPRING TIME OF YOUTH!" He shouted happily.
The man cried, tears falling down his face. "I have taught you well, my pupil. You two pick it up!" He called to the other members of the team.
Both were running after him. The female was wearing a large jacket, which had the hood pulled over her face, and a hockey mask. The male, was wearing a cloak. He had on a pair of sun glasses, and a fake mustache. His hair had been pulled up and stuffed into a hat. Both had the same thought.
'I don't know them. I don't know them… At least no one can guess who I am….'
They both blanched when Lee suggested trading his outfit for a robe as well.
'Oh god no!'
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'I think I'm going to be sick…' Kakashi thought.
Sasuke however was twitching slightly. He took a deep breath and sighed. "No." he said.
Sakura jerked, her eyes widening as she turned to look at Sasuke. 'What is he saying? You can't refuse the Hokage. … I don't think so… Unless… Of course. Since its Sasuke-Kun he gets a choice.' She thought. Nodding her head smartly she turned her attention to the Hokage and glared slightly. "Yea. Why do we have to keep getting these annoying missions. They are useless. It is not showing anything of our skills. Even that girly idiot can do them easily. And all the scarecrow does is read his book." She said pointing an accusing finger to Naruto.
Naruto and Kakashi both twitched. 'And who's the weakest?' They both thought in annoyance.
Sasuke frowned at the girl. He didn't know what to do. He felt like nodding at her, for agreeing. Or glaring that she insulted his Kitsune. He settled for staring at her blankly, before turning back to the Hokage and Iruka.
"You fools!" Iruka said as he stood up slamming his hands on the desk.
Sarutobi hid his face with his hat, as Sakura filched, and Sasuke looked off to the side.
"You two, no you three are just Rookies!! Everyone starts off with simple duties and work their way up! There are no short cuts, or exceptions!" he snarled angrily. He was surprised. He could understand Sasuke. He was a proud boy, and he had probably cracked from doing nothing in his opinion. To Sasuke if it wasn't making him stronger it was useless. But Sakura was a shock. She was the smartest in her class. Surely she knew all of this.
"But-But. We have Sasuke-kun! And we can't hold him doing by doing such useless things!" She shouted back, although she didn't hold any anger in her words. Mostly hesitance and confusion.
Iruka wanted to bang his head on the desk. Of course. He should have known really. "Just because Sasuke is on you team, doesn't mean anything. I said there were no exceptions. Not even for the rookie of the year." He said. Even if Sakura did know, you needed so many missions… It probably flew from her mind wit Sasuke on her team.
The Hokage sighed, and leaned forward in his seat again. "Enough." He called calmly.
Iruka looked over to him and took his seat once more.
Sarutobi looked over the team before him. "It seems I have to explain to you what these duties are all about…" He said slowly. Reaching up he pulled his pipe from his mouth. "Every day the village receives numerous requests, from babysitting… to assassinations. As such, we gain many a day. Sometimes, there are too many to be completed in even a week's time. Each mission more dangerous than the last. As such we have to separate them. The requests are recorded, written down, on the mission logs… and divided into groups. A, B, C, and D ranking on the difficulty level." Sarutobi said as he glanced down at the scrolls on his desk.
"Since this is a ninja village, our ranks are also split up and divided. Based on skill. Starting with me the Jou, Chuu, and Ge-nins. The Hokage, I myself am the Leader. The Jounin are the elite. The Chuunin are the average ninjas. The Genin, you three are the apprentice's. While in the Academy you are merely students. The missions are then, handed out by us at the top. To the Ninjas based on their abilities, or their group. D-Rank missions go to Genin. Genin can also be given mid- to lox C-Rank missions. But only after completing so many D-Ranks. And even then, both the Hokage and their Jounin instructor must agree. High C-Rank missions and B-Rank missions are then given to Chuunin. While A-Rank, and on occasion S-Rank missions are given to Jounin. S-Rank is only given, if the Jounin is skilled enough for the mission. These missions are usually given to the Onin or ANBU. Sometimes even Kage's. And in the event that the mission is completed successfully…" Sarutobi said trailing off. "We receive payment from the client." He said.
In the corner of the room Madam Shijimi was talking to the Elder's. She smiled happily, and handed over the payment she owed them, as she held her precious Tora.
Holding up the scroll toward the Team, Sarutobi smiled slightly as he spoke. "You lot, just recently became Genin, thus you are Rookie. The bottom of the chain. D-Rank missions are perfect for you." He said as he pointed to them, while holding his pipe. He looked up and twitched.
Sakura was standing close to Sasuke and giggling, while she talked quietly to him. Sasuke himself was starring away from her, but really his eyes were on his Kitsune. Said blonde had his arms crossed, as stood beside Kakashi.
"So your saying, Ichiraku's Ramen is still around?" He asked a spark of happiness in his eyes.
Kakashi nodded as he eye smiled. "Yes, Teuchi is still the owner, and Ayame now works there. Although they now sell Dango, and some rice dishes, it still is a ramen shop." He said nodded, as he opened his book again, reading it.
"Are any of you listening!" Sarutobi shouted.
Sakura's head jerked toward him and she bowed her head meekly, trying to hide behind Sasuke. "Gomen…" She muttered. It was not good to make the Hokage angry.
Sasuke turned his attention to the Hokage as well, and gave him a blank stare. He had heard all of this before.
Naruto turned his attention back to Sarutobi, while Kakashi looked sheepish.
"I...I apologize…" Kakashi said guiltily as he rubbed the back of his head. It was embarrassing to say the least.
Naruto tilted his head, as he looked at the aged man. He frowned slightly. He had no interest in helping these meat sacks. The scarecrow wasn't so bad, and his human father was his teacher… But the others were useless. However… "I think you should give us a chance…" Naruto muttered out.
Iruka looked stunned watching the scene. The short time he knew Naruto he had come to realize the boy was not the Kyuubi. The boy was polite, to the extreme. Iruka had come to see a lot of his personality was an act, or a front. But still, he usually didn't question the Hokage.
Sarutobi looked at Naruto, and placed his pipe back to his mouth. "A chance?" He questioned. "What do you wish to say, Naruto?" he asked.
Naruto smiled kindly. Only Sarutobi knew the full truth. Even his act. Although that Iruka was getting close… "A chance to prove we can handle other missions. I know we have the received number of D-Rank missions, to request a C-Rank. Even if it is only a low C-Ranked. And I know most C-Ranked missions take place from the village. I think we should try one. And if we do need help, or can't handle it, you could always send an ANBU" He said starring at the old man.
Sarutobi starred back at the boy. He understood. 'They are good enough. I need to leave this damned village. That or you will have to deal with damage control on a massacre. If you want to make sure everything will be alright, send Otou-San. ' He understood perfectly. He had been wondering, how long the boy could last. Seems he won the bet though. Kyuubi had said a few days, top. But Naruto had lasted a few weeks. Sighing he knew he had no choice. "If you say so." He said calmly.
Sakura and Kakashi both looked at the Hokage shocked.
Sarutobi looked over the team a last time. "As long as your sensei agrees." He said.
Kakashi blinked slowly, and shook the shock off. "Of course. I don't think a C-Rank will be a problem…" He muttered. 'He's actually giving the brats a mission? But Naruto is right; by all rights they could request one…' He thought.
Sakura just stared in shock. 'The demon… The demon actually got them a better mission? Who said they were ready... What if it was too big or they got hurt… That must be it! They were planning to kill them or get them killed on the mission!' She turned to glare at the blonde. 'It won't work demon! I know your game!' She thought with a mental snarl. Both her inner self and chibi self agreed.
Sasuke merely smirked. 'Of course, his Naru-Chan got them a better mission. Now he could prove himself, finally. And he would be one step closer to killing Itachi! And marrying Naruto.' he thought.
Naruto merely smiled happily. 'Good human…' He thought pleased. It would seem Sarutobi was worth the effort. The man was the leader of the village, and cared about him. It would seem another human had been added to his small list, of worthwhile meat sacks.
Sarutobi leant forward, as he laced his fingers together. "I'll give you the C-Ranked mission you asked for. It's the protection missions for a certain individual." He said, with a slight smile. He had a feeling Naruto would like this mission.
The Team's attention was drawn back to the Hokage. Sakura stood there, still glaring at Naruto from the corner of her eyes. Sasuke stood with his hands in his pockets. His eyes kept shooting back to Naruto. Naruto stood at attention and smiled slightly at the Hokage. Kakashi stood there, slouched over from the shock of it all. He had not expected this to happen so easily. He thought the Hokage would have put up more of a fight.
Sarutobi nodded, and turned his head back to the door. "Hey, will you come in here, please?" He asked.
The door was slowly opened by scarred hands, and a bottle of alcohol. "What's this?" The figure asked as they entered the room completely. It was a male. He looked to be around 40 or 50. He had glasses and short grey hair, and a rope tied around his head. He swayed slightly as he stood and reeked of alcohol. "They're a bunch of super brats. How are they supposed to protect me?" He asked. He turned his attention t the three midgets again. "Especially…the shortest one with the weird mask, and goofy outfit. Just looking at it makes my eyes burn… And he looks like a chick. Are they really ninja?!" He asked, in disbelief.
Naruto blinked slowly. Mentally he sighed. 'It's not the first time I've been told that…' He thought in annoyance. It wasn't his fault really. His Otou-San had, had a heart attack when he cut his hair. Since his Otou-San was a submissive demon, Naruto had been one as well. That meant they were more on the feminine side.
Sasuke glared at the fool, which dared talk against his Naru-Chan. Perhaps a misplaced Kunai would change his mind?
Sakura held in a laugh. She was pleased that the man had ridiculed Naruto. At least someone didn't fall for the demon innocent act.
Kakashi eye smiled at the man. "Although they are beginners, they really are ninja's." He said, happily.
Naruto nodded, smiling politely at the male. "We shall be the Team escorting you home. We shall do our very best." He said calmly, and bowed slightly toward the male. His nose was twitching at the scent of alcohol. But his Otou-San had forbidden it. He was not allowed to touch the stuff.
The male arched a brow and grinned slightly at the group. "At least you're polite. I am the super expert bridge builder Tazuna. I expect you to provide me super protection until I get back to my Country and complete the bridge." He said, as he stared down the three children.
Naruto once again, offered a polite smile. "Might I ask where we are escorting you?" He asked, sweetly.
Tazuna blinked, and shrugged. "Wave Country."
Naruto nodded once more. However, inside he was jumping up and down and grinning. The others were in Kirigakure. He would be able to see them again. They would sense him, once he entered Water Country. He would get to see his family again! He couldn't wait to tell Otou-San.
A few minutes, later Kakashi dismissed the team. He had decided to leave tomorrow, to give everyone time to prepare. After deciding a time, the team split up. Sasuke heading home. Sakura stalking Sasuke. Kakashi to stalk up on books. And Naruto to the Inuzuka compound.
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Naruto laughed silently as Kiba finished talking. Hana and Tsume were both holding their stomach's as they laughed hard, while Hinata smiled fondly rolling her eyes. Otou-San merely snickered as he took another bite of his steak. Since, everything had come out; he was a constant site at the compound. The Clan respected him, but would not bow down to him. They were strong, and bowed to no one. In return they had gained Kyuubi's respect. The Inuzuka Clan was a strong one, and he was proud to accept such strong humans into his family. While he wasn't a fan of humans. He did know that some deserved respect, and were worthwhile. And the Dog Clan of Kohona was in that group of humans.
Kyuubi had been happy for his kit, and had agreed to keep his senses on Naruto and his Team. In case something did go wrong. Kiba and Hinata had been happy for him as well. Although they wished they could meet the other members of Naruto's family… They already had a mission that day. They had also gained a C-Rank mission, for tomorrow. They were delivering a scroll, to another village. Tsume and Hana had wished him luck on his mission, as well as Hinata and Kiba. Everything was going fine. There was only one black spot on the horizon.
The Hyuuga Clan had ordered Hinata before the Clan Elders. Before her mission she was to report to the Clan. No one knew what was going on. But because it was the Elders it was cause for worry. And what was worse, Naruto wouldn't be here, for her. His mission started at 6:00 in the morning, while her's didn't start until 10:00. The Elders had ordered her to the Compound by 8:00. The fact that it was such a gap between the two times, caused worry. Kiba had promised to be there, and Shino as well. Shino knew of Hinata's Clan, and had stated, he would help her if needed. After all, they accepted him and his clan, and that rarely happened… But Naruto hated the fact he wouldn't be there. He just hoped, everything would be okay…
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Naruto sighed, and pulled the Maroon knap sack over his shoulder. He had gotten it, because it reminded him of Gaara. He yawned slightly and looked around the room. He looked over to the bed, and allowed a slight smile on his face. Hinata, Kiba, and he had fallen asleep talking last night. Kiba and Hinata were leaning against each other in their sleep. Naruto walked over and ran a clawed hand through Hinata's hair. He really wished he didn't have to leave. This was killing him. And to think… he felt this way over a damned human… But she was his sister. His fangs glinted slightly in the dull light as he grinned, and his Orange and Blond tipped ears twitched at the top of his head. Luckily his tails only appeared when he was fighting. Or when he wanted them too, that was only when he was relaxed or with Gaara.
Moving back, the henge came up in place hiding his demonic showings. He and his father had completely merged, awhile back. Making him a half demon with five tails, he already was on his way to his sixth tail, now. That was why he did not need to be in the seal anymore. The seal had vanished once its job was done, but they had added a new one that allowed Kyuubi to return to the 'seal' area, if he wished. Instead of a large empty cage though, they had changed the area.
When they merged the seal vanished, leaving an empty cage in Naruto's mindscape. They had then changed that area into a mansion/castle. It was more of a sanctuary now, and not a seal. They had been able to play with a few dimensional seals, and made it into an 'existing' place. Anyone with demon blood could enter the area, with invitation of course. Your body would go into a state of stasis, while your mind continued to 'live' in the area. Only the person's mind could enter, since it was in Naruto's mind. Though when the real castle was built it wouldn't be needed, it was used as a place to hide really. It was how Kyuubi was keeping in contact with other demons. Even the ones in the Makai.
He reached up brushing his fingers over his collar, before pulling his mask up over his face. Turning toward the door, he nodded to Yuki, and they silently left the room. Walking along the hall ways, he left the building. He looked up once he reached the compound entrance, and smiled. Tsume and Hana were both waiting for him. Along with his Otou-San in his ANBU uniform. Hana walked up to him and gave him a hug and a pat on the head. After that Hana had knelt down by Yuki, and pulled out a small knapsack.
"These, are healing supplies for you Yuki. In case you get hurt, and also a scroll with your food." She said tying it around the dog's neck. Yuki smiled up at her and gave a happy yelp. Yuki still couldn't speak human, and only Naruto could understand him so far. It was the same with Yoruichi and Hinata. But Hana could pretty much guess what they said; being around dogs her whole life. She smiled, and pats him on the head once before standing.
Naruto noticed she had to other knapsacks in her other hand. He looked up when Tsume ruffled his hair harshly. He smiled up at her as she grinned back. "You watch out for yourself, pup. I don't want to hear you got hurt, for a stupid reason. Just make sure you bring their name to us, if you do get hurt, kay?" She asked, with a grin.
Naruto nodded his head, matching her grin. "Of course." He said.
She gave him a last past on the head, and moved to the side.
Naruto and Kyuubi nodded to each other and left the compound. Naruto waved over his shoulder a last time, at Tsume and Hana, before facing forward. He glanced at his father out of the corner of his eye. "So, Otou-san… What are Tsume's, and Hana's place in our family?" He asked.
Kyuubi blinked, and tilted his head. "Tsume will be your aunt. I like the woman, so I can claim her as my sister. Hana would be the perfect big sister for you. The rest of the Clan will be cousins, or such. Only special people become immediate family." He stated crossing his arms.
Naruto nodded in thought. "I think Temari-Onee and Hana-Onee will get along great." He said.
Kyuubi blinked. "Why do you give some different titles? Temari and Hana's hold more respect then Shiva, Hina, Hinata, and Yukina?" He asked.
Naruto smiled up at his father. "Well… Temari holds the highest respect Onee-Sama, because she is so protective of me. Hana gets the second highest respect Onee-San because she's the oldest. Although I might call her Onee-Chan… And Yukina, because she's my cousin really, not my sister. However since she's the second oldest now, she's Nee-San. While Shiva and Hina are Nee-Chan. And Hinata is younger than me so she's, Imouto. If you ever have a kit of your own, Otou-San she will be my Imouto-Sama. While if I gain another younger sister, she will be Imouto-San. That is unless I'm really close to her, then she will be Imouto-Chan… Do you understand?" He asked, tilting his head cutely.
Kyuubi chuckled. "I get it. Onee-Sama is people you truly respect, in other words, your most protective big sisters. While Onee-San are your sisters, that are years older then you. Anyone you call Onee-Chan is someone older then you by years, but that you feel great affection for… Although since Yukina is really your cousin and not your sister. You call her Nee-san, you think of her as a sister, but not with the most affection or respect. Just a big sister. While you Nee-Chan's are your siblings that you feel the most affection for that are older or the closer in age to you. Imouto-Sama is great respect for a younger sister. Imouto-Chan is for a younger sister, you love dearly, or you feel great affection for. While Imouto-San is like with Yukina, they are younger and you think of them as a sister. Even if they might not be…You still think of them as a sister. And Hinata is your only Imouto…" He said, nodding as he finished.
Naruto chuckled slightly. "Yea, Hinata will be the only one I call Imouto. Just like Kiba is the only one Aniki. Although I do call Haku Aniki-Sama, that's because I respect him, and he takes care of everyone else… but they are the only ones I call Aniki." He finished nodding along.
Kyuubi sighed, and shook his head. "So confusing… But that makes it a bit easier to understand…" He muttered, crossing his arms. He suddenly stretched and grinned. "Well I get to go gut some meat sacks for the Old Man. I'll make sure my senses are on you. Just send out a spike of demonic chakra if you get in trouble. And I mean trouble within your restrictions." He said, seriously.
Naruto nodded and smiled sweetly at his Otou-San. "Of course." He said.
Kyuubi grinned, and ruffled his hair. "See you, kit." He said and in swirl of fire was gone.
Naruto stared at the spot, before continuing to the gate.
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Naruto leaned against the gate, and stared at the person across from him. He would have been in shock if his Otou-san hadn't suggested it might happen. The scarecrow merely flipped to another page. It would seem Hatake Kakashi was serious when missions outside of the village were involved. Thus, he was always on time, even early in some cases. But otherwise, he was always at least 3 hours late. Naruto shook that all from his head, and placed on his mask. He looked kind and sweet, if a little absentminded. He imagined how Gaara would react to seeing this look. Probably growl and ask who poisoned him…
Minutes later, the other members of Team seven showed up. Sakura froze mid-step and starred with wide eyes at their sensei. He was actually on time? This was impossible. It started to creep her out. Kakashi was always late… This couldn't be true. Either it was an illusion or an intruder. Bringing her hands together in the ram sign, she expelled some chakra. "Kai." She whispered. When nothing happened she inched closer, repeating the process. "Kai." Again, nothing. She continued this action, until she was standing in front of him screaming Kai.
Kakashi just looked up from his book and sweat dropped.
Sasuke however, ignored it all. He too had been surprised at seeing Kakashi on time, but his attention was soon on Naruto. He walked over and stood beside the cute little blonde. It was great to see his future wife so early in the morning. He could just imagine what it would be like to wake up to him. Of course, they were both too young for that now, and he wanted to preserve his blonde's innocence for as long as he could. But he could just picture wakening up to that cute face in the morning. His wife would be curled up like a cute kitten, and his nose would wrinkle slightly, and he would nuzzle his pillow in his sleep. Or better yet, Sasuke's chest or arm. Then he would wake up and smile sweetly at him, and continue to cuddle up to him. Sasuke would act annoyed, but secretly would love holding his little Kitsune…
Naruto's eyes widened and he inched away from the Uchiha brat slowly. He had that look in his eyes again… He really didn't like that look… He was brought form his thoughts by their client arriving. He glanced over him, with a light frown. He reeked of fear beneath all that booze. He had a feeling this wasn't going to be as simple as they all thought. He glanced at Kakashi to see the Jounin looking back at him. 'So Sarutobi explained some of what was going on did he?' He thought and smiled bind his mask, Kakashi coping the motion. He jumped slightly, pushing away from the wall and clapped his hands together. "Well then, let's get going." He said happily, with a cheerful disposition.
Sasuke twitched and tried to keep himself from hugging the adorable blonde. Kakashi merely smiled back and nodded his head bringing his book back to his pouch. Sakura stared at him with a frown. "What's got you so happy?" She asked with suspicion. 'As if we don't already know. You're just waiting to kill us off you monster!' Inner Sakura screeched pointing at the blonde demon.Naruto turned to her and smiled. "I'm just pleased to be able to prove our team to Hokage-Sama Haruno-Sa." He said calmly. She snorted. 'Yea right.' She thought, Inner Sakura agreeing. Tazuna looked at him with an unsure expression. "Am I really expected to believe these children to be able to protect me?" He asked Kakashi.
Kakashi sweat dropped, and held up a hand. "Sa, Sa. I am a Jounin so we'll be fine should anything happen." He muttered. Naruto nodded. "That is correct. Sensei is also one of the best of our village. And though we may be children we are still Ninja. We will protect you with our lives. And the mission will be complete even if we were to die for it." He said cheerfully. Tazuna looked at him in slight shock. 'How can he say something like that so… happily?' He thought. He was beginning to think why children became Ninja. If they could understand and accept this so young… He nodded slowly and placed his sake away. "Alright. I trust you then. So don't mess up." He said. Naruto smiled happily and chirped. "Hai!"
Kakashi eye smiled at Naruto. 'He helped the client calm down. And he understands the importance of a mission. Though I will never allow a comrade to die on my watch.' He thought. Sasuke watched his blonde with a small smile. 'Don't worry about that though, I would protect you with my life Naru-Chan.' He thought proud of how his blonde was handling the situation. Sakura however was growling and glaring at the blonde. 'He's leading everyone into a false sense of security. Well I won't fall for it! I'll be there to expose you for what you are, demon!' She declared in her mind. 'He's going down.' Inner Sakura said pointing down with her thumbs. Kakashi nodded. "Well let's go." He said. The Genin and Tazuna all nodded. They turned and started walking. Yuki however paused to glare at a tree before running after them and jumping into Naruto's arms. Naruto ran his fingers through his fur soothingly, as the two men continued watching them.
The hours past slowly, as the group walked. Tazuna in the center Sasuke on his right, with Sakura on his right. Kakashi on his left and Naruto on his left. Sakura suddenly looked up and turned to Tazuna. "Ummm… Tazuna-San?" She asked, slowly to gain his attention. Tazuna groaned lightly and jerked his head toward her. "What?" He snapped. He really didn't want to be bothered with a brat's question. Sakura sniffed lightly. 'How rude.' She thought in annoyance, but pushed it aside. "You're from the Wave Country, right?" She asked. He snorted lightly. "Yea, what about it?" He asked. Sakura suddenly turned her attention to Kakashi. "Ummm… Kakashi-sensei?" She asked calmly. Tazuna twitched slightly in annoyance. 'She bothers me then ignored me.' He thinks in annoyance. Kakashi smiles sheepishly at Tazuna, causing him to snort and turn his attention back to the road.
Kakashi sighed mentally. It wasn't good to annoy the client like she had. He turned back to Sakura and nodded his head slightly. She blinked and smiled slightly. "Do they have Ninja in that country too?" She asked in slight confusion. Sasuke bit back a snort. 'And she's supposed to be the smartest?' He thought in disbelief, and returned to staring longingly at his Kitsune. Naruto did his best to ignore the eyes digging into him. Luckily he had decided to walk slightly behind the others. He knew those eyes would be lower if he hadn't. Kakashi sighed and looked at her with blank eyes. "No, not in wave Country. But…in most other countries, the culture and customs may be different, but Hidden Villages exist and so do Ninjas. "He said.
Crossing his arms he closed his eyes in lecture mode. "To the many countries of the continent, the existence of a Shinobi Village means military power. This is how they hold and maintain advantages over each other. But it's not that the Villages rule the countries, they merely stand equally with the countries government. A small island country like the Wave Country doesn't receive much interference from the larger countries and many not need a Shinobi Village. Within the many Shinobi Villages, Leaf, Mist, Cloud, Sand and Stone are large and powerful and this are referred to as The Great Five Shinobi Countries. And these are the only countries whose leader receives the name "Kage". The 'Five Kages", Hokage The Fire-Shadow, Mizukage Water-Shadow, Raikage Lightning-Shadow, Kazekage Wind-Shadow, and Tsuchikage Earth-Shadow, they reign over the thousands of ninjas in the world. "He said with a nod of his head finishing his small lecture.
Sakura jumped up in a happy position hands fisted beneath her chin. "Wow!! Hokage-Sama is the best!!" She said cheerfully.Inner Sakura scowled crossing her arms. 'That lame geezer is that incredible? Sounds fishy….' She muttered under her breath. Sasuke twitched slightly. 'She didn't know that already? I'm wondering how she became Kuronchi of the year?' Sasuke asked himself. 'Though it is hard to imagine the Sandaime to be that powerful…' He thought in slight disbelief. Kakashi watched their reactions, or in Naruto's case lack of it. "You guys just doubted Hokage-Sama didn't you?" He deadpanned, causing Sakura and Sasuke to jerk in surprise. Naruto looked back at him and smiled cheerfully. "Of course not. He might not look it, but looks are deceiving. And a ninja's job is to hide and deceive their enemies. Hokage-Sama is one of the best out there." He said happily. Kakashi smiled cheerfully back. "True." He said and reached out to rub Sakura's hair. "But don't worry; there won't be any ninja combat in a C-Rank mission." He said calmly. Sakura looked up at him sweetly. "Then we won't come in contact with foreign ninjas?" She asked happily. Kakashi eye smiled at her. "Of course not!!" He said and gave a small laugh.
Tazuna flinched slightly during the discussion. His eyes moved to the ground and he frowned. Sasuke frowned and watched the man from the corner of his eye. He scowled slightly and returned his gaze ahead. Naruto blinked and looked down at the puddle he was walking over. He glanced up and caught Kakashi's eye. Kakashi nodded slightly, and turned his attention forward. Naruto tilted his head in thought then stepped over the puddle instead of stepping in. It was time for his teammates to prove their worth. The group continued on, until they all cleared the puddle. Naruto's ears twitched as the two men emerged from the puddle of water on the ground. Kakashi kept his blank look, as his hand completed the seals he was using. The second brother suddenly jumped from the firsts back and jumped over the group with the razor chain. He tossed it wrapping it around Kakashi, Kakashi's eyes widened as he looked down to the chain binding him. Both ninja crouch on opposite sides as the other turned around to see what was going on. Kakashi's eyes were wide as he stared ahead. Sakura chose this moment to show her intelligence, asking "Huh?" Tazuna's eyes widened. "What's this?" He exclaimed, walking. "What?" Sasuke asked in confusion and slight fear. Naruto stare blankly at the scene Yuki in his arms. He nodded to Kakashi and stepped back from everyone.
"One down." The second brother said as they yanked on the chain. Kakashi's' eye widened completely filled with shock and horror. Blood splattered over the area, only oddly enough none stuck to the ground and his body seemed to almost vanish after they pulled the chain. Sakura screamed staring at the scene in horror. Sasuke looked on in shock and shouted, "Kakashi-Sansei!!" Tazuna stare in horror at the scene before him frozen in fear, while Naruto gave a shocked expression and muttered "Ka…." Suddenly the two men appeared behind him. "Two down." They muttered, the chains in the air coming to wrap around him. Naruto's head jerked around to look at them as Yuki started to growl form his arms. Sasuke's eyes widened and he suddenly growled jumping in the air. Tazuna stared at the sight before him. 'Ninja?!' He thought in shock and guilt. Sasuke reached for a shrunkin and tossed it sticking the chain and stabbing it to a nearby tree. The brothers watched this action in shock, allowing Sasuke to pull out a kunai. He spun it around and used it to lock the chain to the tree. One of the brothers tried to pull on it, only for it to not move. 'I'm stuck…' He thought. Sasuke landed on their out stretched arms, a foot on each one. He reached down and grabbed one of them with his hand. His eyes narrowed and filled with hatred. He kicked out smashing his feet into both of the brother's faces.
As they fell toward the ground they reached up and unhooked their chains, and dashed off in different directions. The first headed toward Naruto. He turned toward him as he came at him claw extended. Naruto narrowed his eyes and dropped Yuki. Yuki jumped from Naruto's arms and landed on the man's face. His teeth bite onto the air container on the front of the mask yanking it down. His claws then dug into the man's face ripping it apart, while his teeth sunk into his nose. As this happened Naruto dodged under the claw like gauntlet and placed his hands on the ground he twisted and kicked, one foot smashing into his chin and the other his chest. The enemy was knocked back into a tree before he could give off his first scream from the dog's attack. The other brother went after the bridge builder. Sakura's eyes widened. 'He's coming.' She thought watching the man go after Tazuna. Her eyes narrowed slightly. 'I have to do it!' She thought her eyes narrowing in determination. She pulled out a kunai and knocked the man back standing in front of him. "Sir, get back!" She shouted pulling the kunai before her face. The man came closer and closer, but was stopped when an arm suddenly jammed into his neck. He gave off a "Gua!" As his body was propelled upward with the force of his attack, and the arm dug deeper into his neck.
Everyone looked up to see Kakashi standing there calmly with the man hanging from his arm. Sakura's face lit up in a smile as her hands came to her chest in fists. 'Kakashi-Sansei…Alive!' She thought in happiness. Her eyes caught sight of the logs where Kakashi had 'died'. 'I see, he used Kawarimi! How clever!' She exclaimed mentally.Inner Sakura nodded. 'He might be an idiot but he's a cool one!' She said pumping her fist in the air.Naruto turned toward the sight and stared in slight awe. 'He looks so cool like that…' He thought in slight amusement. He found it funny that humans did things while still spearing cool. Sasuke, who had been heading toward Naruto paused and looked back. His eyes narrowed and his eyebrow twitched. ''Bah…show off...'He thought in annoyance. Annoyance that turned to jealousy upon seeing Naruto's face. 'That should be me getting that look!' He cried mentally in his mind. Chibi Sasuke throwing a tantrum and destroying a Kakashi doll. Tazuna sighed in relief. 'Phew, were safe...' He thought, reaching for his sake and taking a big gulp. Kakashi looked up and eye smiled at everyone. "Good job, everyone. You proved you could handle a situation without your sensei present. Sasuke disabled their main attack. Sakura you protected the client. And Naruto you took one out. I'm proud of all of you." He said happily. Sakura beamed at the praise. Naruto smiled sheepishly. Sasuke shook his and continued on toward Naruto.
He stopped before him and checked him over. "Are you alright, Naruto?" He asked. Naruto had refused to let him call him Naruto-Kun, and had nearly killed him when he called him Naru-Chan or Naruto-Chan. He knew he was just shy, but he could deal with just calling him Naruto. As long as he wasn't forced to call him Uzumaki or Naruto-San, like he had been threatened with. Naruto looked up at him and smiled brightly. "I'm just fine. Thank you for helping me though." He said and gave a bow toward him. Sasuke's cheeks tinted pink and he smiled lightly at the cute blonde. "It wasn't a problem. We are teammates, I'll always protect you." He said seriously. Naruto straightened and smiled at him again. "Arigato, Sasuke-San." He said, and turned toward the other brother. Sasuke's eyes widened. 'He called me Sasuke-San. Not Uchiha or Uchiha-San. I'm one step closer!' He thought. Chibi Sasuke celebrating and cuddling chibi Naruto. "Yuki, that's enough." Naruto said. Yuki growled but released his prisoner. He walked back over and stopped before Naruto.
Kakashi watched the scene in amusement. 'Ah, memories of Team 7.' He thought in nostalgia. He turned toward the client however. "Tazuna-San." He called calmly. Tazuna jerked and panicked slightly. "What is it?" Kakashi's eyes narrowed. "I need to talk to you." He said deadly serious.
"These look like Hidden Mist Chuunins…" Kakashi muttered. The group stood around the tree the brothers were tied too. The one Yuki had attacked was still unconscious. "These shinobis are known to continue fighting no matter what." Kakashi said as he placed his hands on his hips. The one that was awake looked up glaring. "…How did you read our movement?" He asked closing his eyes. Kakashi leaned forward. "On a sunny day like this when it hasn't rained in days…there's not going to be a puddle." He said, in a calm tone. Tazuna keh'ed and looked at him. "If you knew that, why did you let the brats fight?" He demanded. 'Though they could take care of themselves, still...' He thought, impressed with them despite everything. "If I had wanted to I could have killed these two instantly, but…" He trailed off and turned his gaze toward the client. "There was something I needed to find out… Who these two were after." He said in a serious voice. Tazuna blinked in confusion. "What do you mean?" He asked with a frown. Kakashi turned toward him. "Meaning… Were they after you or one of us? We haven't heard that there are shinobi after you. Our mission was to simply protect you from thieves or gangs. This has now become at least a B-Rank mission. This was supposed to be a simple protection mission until you…completed the bridge." He said blandly.
Naruto looked down in depression, and kept silent. Kakashi continued speaking. "If it was known that ninjas were after you…this mission would have been set as the more expensive-Rank. I'm sure you had a reason, but it causes a problem when you lie about the mission. We are now operating outside of our duties." He said calmly. Sakura spoke up then. She was twitching in nervousness and sweating slightly in fear. "We aren't ready for this mission. Let's quit!!" She declared. She looked around to her other teammates for support to find both of them occupied with other things. She growled lightly at the fact that neither was paying attention to this. Naruto was messing with that stupid dog of his, and Sasuke was getting his shrunkin and kunai back. Tazuna looked at all the brats. The girl looked terrified, and the quiet boy was gathering the weapons he had used. The blonde was checking his dog over. He suddenly looked up and smiled in his direction. Tazuna's eyes widened as he remembered what the boy told him earlier. "That is correct. Sensei is also one of the best of our village. And though we may be children we are still Ninja. We will protect you with our lives. And the mission will be complete even if we were to die for it." He said cheerfully. Tazuna looked at him in slight shock. 'How can he say something like that so… happily?' He thought. He nodded slowly and placed his sake away. "Alright. I trust you then. So don't mess up." He said. Naruto smiled happily and chirped. "Hai!" Tazuna sighed, and took a step forward.
"Sensei…" He said gaining Kakashi's attention. "I…want to talk to you…" He muttered. Taking a deep breath he continued. "It's about this mission…" He said. Kakashi turned toward him, and the Genin started paying attention once more. "Your right, this job is likely outside of your duties. It turns out a super dangerous man is after my life." He said. Kakashi blinked. "Super dangerous?" he asked hiding a sweat drop. What a way to put things. Tazuna kept silent though, so Kakashi sighed. "Who?" He asked. Tazuna closed his eyes. "You've probably heard his name before. The wealthy shipping magnate…a man named Gatou." He said his eyes and tone serious. Kakashi's' eyes widened. "Huh?! Gatou… From that Gatou Company? He's said to be of the world's few extremely wealthy people." He said in amassment. Naruto's eyes widened a fraction for a second before returning back to normal. 'Gatou...I wonder….' He thought, turning back to Yuki.
Tazuna nodded. "Yes…Officially he runs a large shipping company… Bur secretly he sells drugs and other illegal items, using ninjas and gang members to take over…business and countries. He's a very nasty man." He said looking down once more. Naruto's eyes narrowed slightly. 'Sounds like that Gatou…' He thought. Tazuna looked up again and continued. "It was about a year ago when he set his eyes on the Wave Country. Through money, and violence, he quickly took control of the country's shipping industry. Gatou now had a monopoly on all business traffic in the country. The only thing he has to fear now is the completion of the bridge." He said. Sakura's hand came up to her chin. "I see… Since you're building the bridge… you're in the way." She muttered with a serious expression on her face. Sasuke turned to them and walked over. "So…those ninjas were hired by Gatou?" He asked. Naruto kept his head down and finished his examination of Yuki. The Mist Brothers were known for poison so he wanted to make sure. Kakashi took a step forward. "But what I don't understand is…If you knew ninjas could be after you…Why did you hide that fact when you hired us?" He asked.
"Isn't it obvious?" They all turned to Naruto who was looking to Tazuna. "His clothing is in poor condition, even for a civilian. The materials he bought while durable are cheap. The Wave Country is most likely poor. Add to the fact that Gatou has taken over completely and gains any taxes or anything he wants, they most likely are in poverty. Whatever money they did have before is gone now." He said. Tazuna's eyes dropped to the ground. "That true. Even the Feudal Lord has no money. Of course even though I'm the best Bridge builder around, we don't have much money either… Not enough for the expensive B-Ranked mission." He muttered. Kakashi's eyes lowered in pity. 'Naruto noticed all of that and I was oblivious… Now that he pointed it out. Nothing about the man in luxurious or even easy in appearance. Even his hat is worn and old.' He thought. Tazuna sighed. "Well…if you quit the mission now…I will definitely be killed… But…." He suddenly looked up and grinned. "Don't worry about it!! If I die my cute 10-year-old grandson will just cry for a few days. Oh yeah, and my daughter will live a sad life hating Leaf Village Ninjas forever." He said cheerfully. Sasuke, Sakura, and Kakashi all watched him with slumped shoulders and blank eyes. Naruto merely hid his smile, while standing. Kakashi suddenly laughed nervously. "Well. I guess we have no choice. We will protect you at least until you get back to your country." He said. Tazuna turned away with a blank expression. 'I win,' He thought. He blinked when the blonde grinned at him and clapped so the others wouldn't hear. Tazuna gave a replying grin and gave him a small bow.
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"You failed?!!" A short man in a black suit shouted pointing to a tall man sitting on a couch. "I paid you guys a lot of money because I heard you were very strong former ninjas." He shouted at the man. The man reached over his shoulder and grabbed the bandaged hilt to his sword. The short man's eyes widened, and he jerked in shock, the tall man jerked the sword over his shoulder and swung it. It stopped inches away from the man causing him to back up and his body guard to take a step back. "Stop your bitching, this time I will go with this head slicing cleaver...And kill them." Zabuza said from his leaned back position on the couch. The man took a breathy and gathered his courage. "Are you sure?" He demanded, despite his fear. "It seems the enemy has hired some skilled ninjas. And with the failure of the demon Brothers, they'll be better prepared." He said, arrogantly. Zabuza starred at him with blank eyes. "Who do you think I am…? There's a reason I'm called the Devil of the Hidden Mist, Momochi Zabuza. "He said calmly. Gatou stood straight and tidied his suit. "You better." He said with a snort and left, his guard going with him. He dropped his sword back in place and stood from his seat. "Seems like It's time to take care of some trash, Haku." He called out. Haku walked from his hiding spot and smiled serenely. "I'm afraid its better then that Zabuza-Sama." He called out. Zabuza arched a brow. "Oh?" He asked. Haku nodded. "Close your eye and concentrate." He said. Zabuza blinked a few times but close his eyes. A few moments later they snapped open and he grinned. "Seems the Demon Clan meets again, you send a signal to the others, Haku." He called out. Haku nodded and vanished.
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Mist drifted along the water lazily. It caused vision to be at a minimum, only a few inches ahead of you could be seen. "What thick mist, I can't see ahead." Sakura said peering around. Sasuke mentally rolled his eyes. 'Way to state the obvious…' He thought in annoyance, it would be better if she would be silent. The man leading the boat turned back with a scowl. "We should see the bridge soon. The Wave Country is at the base of the bridge." He said turning back to stare ahead. They all looked forward to see this 'legendary bridge'. Naruto's eyes widened at the sight, while Sakura gasped and Sasuke stared. He turned toward Tazuna. "It is impressive. Especially with such a small amount going into it." He said calmly. Tazuna grinned with pride. "Yea. It's my greatest work. Still haven't thought of a name though. We do have to be silent about it all though. That's why the boat doesn't have a motor; it would draw Gatou's attention." He explained. Naruto nodded, "I see." He said. Yuki was curled up in his arms staying as far away from the water as possible. "We'll be there soon." The man at the front muttered once more. He paused and turned toward Tazuna. "Tazuna… it looks like we have avoided detection so far but…just in case we'll take the route that has vegetation. It will make us harder to spot." He said, Tazuna nodded with a serious expression. "Thanks." He said.
The boat passed through a tunnel, the group looking above at the lights and around, when they cleared it. The group looked around at the trees growing around the area form the water. Everyone was happy to get off the boat once it finally stopped. They all got off at a dock house and walked along the ramp. The man however stayed back. "This is it for me. Good bye and good luck." He said with a small frown. Tazuna looked back and smiled in thanks. "Yeah, super thanks." He said happily. He watched as the man rode off and turned back to the others. "Ok!! Get me home safely." He said cheerfully. "Yes, Yes." Kakashi muttered. He was slumped over and had a deadpanned and worried look on his face. 'If we get attacked again it will surely not be a Chuunin, but a Jounin level…' He thought with a deep sigh. They walked along silently. Sasuke walking close to Naruto, while following the others and Sakura glaring at Naruto. As they were walking, Yuki suddenly perked up. He jumped from Naruto's arms and dashed into the bushes with a snarl. The group froze, while Naruto ran after him. They waited a few moments, till Naruto headed back. He stopped at the edge of the bushes with Yuki at his feet. In his arms he held a white bunny. Upon seeing it Sakura glared harder. "Keep that mutt of yours on a leash!" She screeched.
Meanwhile Kakashi was staring at the bunny. 'That's a snow rabbit…Yet its spring, what's with its color? The snow rabbit changes color based on the amount of sunlight. White is its color during winter. This is a rabbit that's been kept in a cage for the purpose of body switching. So they're here already…' He thought glancing around. In the trees Zabuza watched the scene in amusement. 'The Hidden Leaf's Copy Ninja… The Sharningan Kakashi…' He thought his gaze then drifted over to the blonde away from the group. He slowly reached for his sword. Naruto was checking over the bunny to make sure Yuki hadn't hurt it. Once he was sure it was fine he got a good look at it. 'Hey, I recognize this rabbit…' He thought his eyes widened. At the same time Kakashi's eyes widened in shock. "Everyone, get down!!" He shouted. Sasuke tackled Sakura and Tazuna, while Kakashi crouch lowly. Naruto merely stood there as the sword past him, coming nowhere close to hitting and lodged itself into the tree before Kakashi. A split second later Zabuza was standing on the sword with his back turned to them. He looked at them over his shoulder. Kakashi's eyes narrowed. 'This guy…' He thought in worry. He stood up again with the others and placed his hands in his pocket. "Well well, if it isn't the Hidden Mist's Missing-Nin Momochi Zabuza-Kun." He said pleasantly. Sasuke took a step forward wanting to be in front of Naruto. However he was stopped by Kakashi's arm. "Everybody get back. This one's on a whole other level." He said. Sasuke, Tazuna, and Sakura all stared at the man in awe and fear. "Against him…" Kakashi said as he rose his hand up. "It will be a little tough… Unless I do this." He said resting his hand on his headband and beginning to lift it.
"Zabuza-Sama!" Everyone jerked in shock at the sudden happy shout. The next thing that happened was Naruto was leaping up and at the Missing-Nin. Sasuke, Tazuna, and Kakashi's eyes all widened in fear. Naruto landed on the handle of the sword and jumped toward the tall man, and they all shouted his name in fear when Zabuza turned toward him at the same time and… caught him in a hug. Everyone face faulted, while being majorly confused. Naruto however happily nuzzled the neck of his favorite and only uncle while taking in the familiar scent. It had been so long since he was with a Clan member, and even longer since he had been with Zabuza and the others. Zabuza merely shook his head and chuckled holding the boy up. "You've gotten bigger Naru-Chan." He said with a grin and ruffled his hair. "And you're still over dramatic." He said cheekily as he pulled back. They started bantering lightly, leaving the others in the area to stare at the scene in shock.