Chapter 9 Waves
Still don't own Naruto but at least I can make my own fanfic of it and own that. Sorry this chapter took so long life has been a little insane due to this whole Covid situation. Hope y'all are staying safe wherever you are as you read this. The next chapter will of course be the start of the Chunin Exams so see y'all then.
As the sun rises on the seventh day Tazuna headed towards the bridge escorted by Kakashi, Anko, Team 7, Shino. "Shinobi-san are you sure those two can protect my family? They're just kids. What if Gatō or Zabuza target my family to get to me?" When Kiba hears this he laughs before mentioning that those two kids are heirs to two of the strongest clans in Konoha. "Trust me old man those two can protect your family from anything this side of a elite jonin. Especially if he has time to set up his seals." As the group clears the trees they see the bridge but instead of the workers doing their jobs to their horror they were all laying in pools of blood. As the Konoha shinobi take up positions around Tazuna mist begins rolling in from the other side of the bridge as Zabuza and stop in front of them.
"So Kakashi you and your brats got some more help I see. The famed Snake Mistress Anko Mitarashi and I'm guessing her team of brats. And look at them your poor little genin are shaking! They.." Before he can say more Sasuke looks up sharply with his Sharingan active. "I'm not scared! I'm shaking in anticipation!" After snorting in derision Zabuza directs his partner who he calls Haku to deal with the genin while he deals with the two Jonin. Rushing forward to meet him Kakashi and Anko pray silently that their efforts are enough.
-back at Tazuna's house-
As Tsunami and Inari prepare lunch for Tazuna they notice that the two genin left to guard them become unusually tense suddenly. "Ex-Excuse me but you two wi-will have to follow me quickly! Someone h-has crossed Na-Naruto-kun's seals." As Hinata quickly leads the two into the upstairs bedroom Naruto makes a small batch of clones that either henge or hide themselves. As Naruto uses his chakra to stick to the ceiling above the door it's suddenly slashed apart and two men walk in armed with katanas. As the two men head towards the kitchen they suddenly see what looks like two people running outside away from the home. "Get them! Gato said he wants the bridge builders family!" Just as they're about to step outside a seal suddenly lights up in front of the door before they're blasted back by a wall of wind. "What the hell!" "WHOEVER YOU COME OUT!"
Slashing at nearby objects and shouting in anger the two men fail to notice the golden chains sliding down the wall behind them. At the last moment the shorter of the two hears the chain clinking behind him and looks up to see a smirking Naruto above them releasing more chains. Before the man can even say a word he and his partner are quickly wrapped up in chains and held down by Naruto. Dropping to the floor Naruto shakes his head at the two before whistling towards the stairs. "Hinata-chan they're down. Can you come knock them out?" Walking down the stairs Hinata comes out with a kunai in her hand. "H...Hai Naru...Naruto-kun."
Almost as soon as the men's yells and curses end Tsunami rushes down the stairs holding a small knife but is greeted by the sight of two men wrapped up being carried outside. "Tsu-Tsunami-san we are go-going to join our teams. Na-Naruto-kun is going to leave a squad of clones to act as your guards. Pl-please do not leave the grounds un-unless you have to escape." As Tsunami nods her son quickly rushes down the stares as Naruto and Hinata prepare to leave. "Don't go Naruto. What if you die!? Wh..." Much to everyone's shock Naruto quickly places a hand upon Inari's head before smiling down at him. "Inari I have to go. I can't stand by while my our friends fights. Afterall it's our job to protect you guys what kind of shinobi would I be if I ran away?" Before Inari can respond Naruto and Hinata quickly run out and begin heading towards the bridge.
-at the bridge-
As the three Jonin continue fighting within the mist near the edge of it Sasuke and Kiba quickly move to stop Haku while Shino and Sakura guard Tazuna. "Back away from the bridge builder shinobi-san. I don't want to kill you four but I will if I must." Putting on his clawed gloves Kiba snarls at the masked nin. "Not gonna happen!" As the two boys rush forward they attempt a simultaneous attack but are stopped as Haku quickly forms a water clone that moves to engage Kiba. With their blades stopped by senbon both boys smirk thinking they have their opponent matched before both the original and the clone speak at the same time. "You think you have be beat don't you? But let's see how you handle this." Before either boy can react Haku forms one handed seals before calling out. "Hyōton: A Thousand Needles of Death!"
As the water around the boys suddenly rises and and forms into needles the two quickly pour chakra into their limbs as they jump up and away just before they impact. "Much as I hate to say it Uchiha we may have to work together." Landing a bit away from the masked nin Sasuke nods. "Tch. You're right let's go." As Sasuke rushes forward again Kiba tosses Akamaru a pill before calling out. "Man Beast Clone!" When the smoke clears a more feral looking version of Kiba appears before he calls out. "All-Fours jutsu!" As the now two feral looking Kibas attack Sasuke smirks as he's momentarily driven back by Haku just before they strike. "So he finally got it down." "TAKE THIS!" While Sakura monetarily cheers seeing the smoke Zabuza laughs before yelling at Haku to stop holding back as the smoke clears.
Much to the other's shock a halfdome of ice stands where Haku's clone was blocking both Kibas. "Hai Zabuza-sama. I am sorry shinobi-san but I must kill you two now." As the ice breaks both Kibas and Sasuke attempt to stop Haku from forming seals. "Hyōton: Crystal Ice Mirrors." Before the boys eyes ice begins to rise up before forming into mirrors around them. As the three back against each other images of Haku form on each mirror holding multiple senbon within each hand. "Surrender now. You can't defeat me now I don't want to kill you but I will if I must." Instead of responding verbally Sasuke Kiba quickly throw kunai to test the strength of the mirrors but are stunned when the blades fail to even scratch them. "Kiba cover me!" Nodding Kiba called for Akamaru to join him before yelling out.
"Fang over Fang!" As the two begin spinning and striking at the mirrors volleys of senbon began to rain down on them as Haku retaliated. "Sasuke hurry up! I can't keep this up forever!" Instead of responding Sasuke breathes in before shouting. "Great Fireball Jutsu!" Seeing the fireball coming Kiba and Akamaru quickly drop down to the bridge and watch as it slams into the far side of the dome. For a moment steam joins the mist formed by Zabuza further hindering their vision. "Good one Sasuke!" Shaking his head Sasuke's eyes narrow as he watches where his fireball hit. "No it didn't work. Look." As the steam clears away Kiba is stunned to see the ice ahead of him hasn't melted and that there is only a small crack on it's surface that quickly closes. "You will have to do better than that to destroy my crystal ice. Now forgive me but I must kill you two in order to serve my master Zabuza-sama."
As the rain of senbon resumes Akamaru is the first to fall as he's unable to dodge or block enough. In his desire to protect his friend and companion Kiba is next to fall as he is monetarily forgoes dodging in attempting to grab Akamaru. "Crap he just had to get downed. Shino or one of the others better get here soon." As Sasuke continues to dodge he notices he's getting better though he's left unable to retaliate or aid his teammate. Suddenly though the mist begins to lift just as he hears Naruto's voice calling out a wind jutsu. "Took that dobe long enough. Hopefully he or Hinata can help me here." From outside the dome he hears Naruto place a barrier before asking Hinata what to do. "Naruto-kun & Shino-san go help Sasuke. I'll help Sakura protect Tazuna-sama!"
Seeing the predicament Sasuke is in Naruto and Shino quickly begin running over with Shino's insects quickly swarming out around him and onto the ice. For a moment both boys are hopeful before they're shocked to see Shino's insects literally freezing upon the ice. "Naruto-san my hive can not take the chakra from this jutsu. The cold is preventing them from living long enough to drain it effectively." Quickly nodding Naruto's chains shot out of his back while he draws his tanto before handing a scroll to his comrade. "Shino I'm going inside. I have a barrier that can protect Kiba and Akamaru. Use the tags in this to attack from the outside." Before Shino can say a word Naruto rushes forward while spinning his chains to deflect incoming senbon. The moment he enters the covered area he draws two kunai with tags wrapped around their hilts before throwing them beside his friend and his dog. The moment the kunai land small barriers shot out and cover the two while Naruto moves to cover Sasuke's back with his chains. "Hey teme how come you haven't used any of your jutsu to break this ice?"
Annoyed at Naruto's comment Sasuke says he did but that it obviously failed. "Dobe you better have a plan here. My fire jutsu aren't hot enough and your seals can't protect them forever." As Haku halts his attack for a moment Naruto notices that he seems to be breathing rather heavily within his mirrors. "Hey teme I don't think this guy can keep it up for long either. Cover me while I prepare something to break his jutsu." Flicking out a folded Fuma Shuriken Sasuke begins to spin it using his chakra while covering Naruto's back until he sees the signs he's forming. "Naruto I'm going to use a jutsu alongside yours. Make sure you aim it the same way I do." Nodding as he continues his signs Naruto turns to face the side away from Kiba and Akamaru. "Sasuke now! Wind Style: Air Bullets!" "Fire Style: Phoenix Fire Jutsu!" For a moment the jutsus fly side by side before merging. Watching the flames Sasuke has what Naruto likes to call his Uchiha smirk before the combined jutsu slam into the ice. "That should do it!"
As the steam clears both boys are stunned when they see that only one mirror has melted while the others around it are merely cracked. "Oh come on! That's it no more holding back. Sasuke cov.." Just as Naruto is about to say more Sasuke slams into him and knocks him down and as he looks up he sees Sasuke pincushioned with senbon across his torso, arms, even a few in his neck. "Sasuke what the hel..." Laughing a bit before coughing up a small amount of blood Sasuke smirks at Naruto. "W..What kind of expression is that.." As Sasuke stumbles back he coughs up more blood before falling onto his back. "Why...Why me! I...I never asked for your help!"
Looking up Sasuke has a small on his face as he stares at Naruto. "I...don't...know... my body...moved on...it's own." As Sasuke's eye's close Naruto yells at him to get up. "Oto-san I'm sorry I can't avenge you. I swore I wouldn't die till I killed that traitor but...my body moved without me thinking." Coming out of the ice the masked nin looks down at Naruto. "Is this the first time you've lost a comrade?" Holding his friend in his arms Naruto looks up at the shinobi and glares at him. "Shut up! He's not dead!" Shaking his head the masked shinobi walks forward a bit while drawing more senbon.
"He is. But he choose to sacrifice himself to save you. That is a action worthy of the title of shinobi. He gained his true strength protecting and dying for the ones he viewed as comrades. But.." Before Haku can say anymore red chakra begins to swirl around Naruto filling the air with a rage and bloodlust. "What is this chakra. It's too evil to be human. I have to kill him now!" Throwing the senbon rapidly he's stunned when Naruto doesn't even flinch when they hit. As he stares Naruto's wounds begin to heal the various senbon within his body are forced out. While he readies another volley of senbon Naruto looks up and instead of his eyes being blue he sees red, slitted eyes staring back at him filled with a inhuman amount of hate. Before he can react Naruto's chains lash out. now blood red, like his chakra deflecting the incoming senbon as Naruto roars in anger. Around them the ice mirrors begin to crack while across the bridge the others stare into the mist as the bloodlust and rage from Naruto floods the area.
For a moment each jonin freezes as they feel the chakra now unleashed. "That can't be one of them..." Tightening his grip on his blade Zabuza licks his lips as he knows what the source of the power is. "Oh crap shortie is using it's chakra." Drawing another kunai Anko summons a snake to head towards her student. "We need time finish this fast. If he's using it's power it may break out." As the three stare at each other through the thinning mist Kakashi pulls out and opens a scroll while Anko summons two large snakes to aid her and Kakashi. Sorry Zabuza-san but we have to finish this now before things get more out of control." As the mist rolls back in the sounds of blade meeting blade once again resounds before being drowned out by the primal roars from within the dome.
As Haku attempts to evade the now throughly enraged Naruto he notices that the boy is getting faster and faster even as his chains do more and more damage to his mirrors. "I have to end this now. Otherwise he's simply going to catch me when my mirrors fail he'll tear me apart." Pouring more chakra into his limbs to increase his speed Haku momentarily manages to pull ahead of Naruto and using his mirrors dives down towards him. Just before he's able to sink his senbon into his back though he's thrown away by Naruto's chains receiving multiple cuts to his arms, chest, & a large crack in his mask as a result. As he attempts to move back into the mirrors Haku is caught by Naruto's chains before being thrown to the ground forcing him to fight Naruto head-on. While Haku has been trained by Zabuza for years he quickly realizes Naruto's speed and strength, enhanced by the evil chakra still flowing through and around him, is just too much. "I need to find a way to catch him defeat him in one blow."
After a few moments of back forth between the two Haku is caught by Naruto's chains and is unable to escape before Naruto grabs his wrist. Within seconds some of Naruto's chains wind their way up his opposing arm before he strikes Haku right in the middle of his mask sending him flying. As Haku is launched away he crashes through one mirror before slamming into the bridge top as the rest finally break apart. While he struggles to get up his already cracked mask begins to break apart as Naruto rushes towards him with a set of chain tips extending just beyond his fist. "Zabuza-sama...I can't defeat this boy...Zabuza...I'm" Just before Naruto's fist slams into Haku's now uncovered face he closes his eyes as he prepares to die.
When he realizes the blow has yet to land he opens his eyes and sees Naruto's fist and chains right in front of his face while his once again blue eyes bore into his own. "It's you...But why? Why are you here!?" Confused at why Naruto has stopped Haku looks up at him. "Why? Why stop? Even though I killed your dear friend, you can't kill me?" For a moment Naruto's eyes flicker between red and blue before he yells out as he slugs Haku full force in the face. While Haku struggles to rise Naruto breathes heavily as he clenches his fists as his emotions rage. "What happened to your power from a moment ago? You can't defeat me with that. Wasn't he your close friend? How ca.." "SHUT UP!" Before Haku can even blink Naruto's chains have once again shot from his back and wrapped him up before pulling him closer to their source. "Why! Why are you here!? Why are you fighting for him!" As Naruto continues to yell at Haku he thinks back to how he met him first within the woods a few days before.
-2 days prior-
Under direction of his sensei Naruto had sent clones into the woods around Tazuna's house to cover the area with seals designed to ensure they weren't ambushed. As Naruto's clones spread throughout the neighboring woods he received a memory from one that had spotted a unknown individual before dispelling itself to let him and the other clones know. After alerting his sensei to the person's existence Naruto was allowed to leave the home with a small group of clones to act as reinforcements should they prove hostile. A few moments later he found the person still within the same clearing picking various plants putting them within a basket. Deciding to confront the individual Naruto quickly entered the clearing quickly getting their attention. "Hi there, my name is Naruto Uzumaki I'm a shinobi from Konoha. I noticed you picking plants do you need any help?" For just a moment Naruto noticed the individual fell back into a guard stance before quickly returning to how they were before.
"If you would like to help shin...I mean, Naruto-san I would be happy if you could help me. I am gathering plants to help heal one of my friends who was hurt. My name is Haku by the way." Looking down at the basket Naruto recognizes a few his clan and others used for medicinal creams but some are unfamiliar. For a few hours Naruto helps Haku before the two sit to relax after picking the area bare. Pulling out a seal with the kanji for lunch on it Naruto unseals a small but still steaming meal. "Haku-san would you like some food? My teammate makes the best pork rice ball and gave me some today." After taking a single one Haku was surprised that it was still warm and smelled like it had just been made. "If you're wondering the seal it was stored in was designed to keep food fresh warm for a long period of time. My clan", seeing Haku almost imperceptibly flinch at the word surprises Naruto raising his suspicion of the boy, "is filled with masters of fuinjutsu so this was one of the first ones I learned alongside the other various storage seal variants. What about you where are you from?" For a moment Haku is silent before saying he's from the Land of Waves. "So you're from here? Did Gatō's thugs hurt your friend?"
Instead of replying verbally Haku nods while putting his head down to cover his eyes. "Tell me shinobi-san do you have anyone truly dear to you?" Turning his head a bit at the unusual question Naruto still nods and smiles. "Hmmm yeah. I got my clan", Naruto again notices Haku's near imperceptible flinch at the word, "the Uzumaki, the Kazamas, my Jiji, my sensei, and my teammates. Why?" With a small smile Haku replies. "Because I believe someone becomes truly strong when they have someone or something to protect." After a few more moments the two both decide to leave but not before Haku thanks Naruto for his help the food.
"Once again thank you for your help Uzumaki-san these plants will make it easier for my friend to recover. I'm sure you'll become very strong one day to protect your precious people. Hopefully I can as well." With one of his signature smiles Naruto responds happily. "I believe you will Haku-san." As Haku stands begins to walk away he turns back to Naruto one last time. "Hopefully we meet again Naruto-san. Oh and..." With a smirk Naruto rubs the back of his head as he laughs quietly. "I assume you were going to tell me you are a boy?" Surprised at Naruto's smile Haku takes a step back in shock. "Yes...How did you figure it out?" Standing up Naruto wipes off the back of his pants before laughing a bit again. "Hehehe I don't know why you dress like a girl Haku-san but you move like a guy. Bye!" Quickly leaving the clearing Naruto wonders what he'll tell his team and Kakashi's once he returns. "Ehh it'll be alright Haku-san may be a little weird but I doubt he's a threat."
-end flashback-
As Naruto stares down Haku the remaining mist is blown away allowing both of them to see the fight between Zabuza, Anko, and Kakashi. Both the Leaf Jonin have called out their summons while Zabuza is standing opposite of them with his blade held up against his shoulder. "Give it up Zabuza you can't beat us.", as Anko speaks she looks back at the genin, "And it looks like your apprentice was beaten by our genin." Enraged at how the fight has gone Zabuza decides to end it in one fell swoop. Quickly forming a series of water clones he pulls back begins forming seals. "I have a bad feeling about whatever jutsu he's about to unleash." Quickly taking a solider pill Kakashi readies himself before drawing out more kunai. "Anko we need to stop whatever jutsu he's about to use now. Cover me I'm ending this with that move." Nodding Anko blitzes forward to give Kakashi time and to keep Zabuza from using his jutsu.
"You better not miss Kakashi!" As Anko rushes forward she summons more snakes that join Kakashi's dogs in attacking the water clones. "Multiple Striking Shadow Snakes!" Briefly surprised at the number of snakes Anko unleashes the nearest Zabuza clones are quickly eliminated before another manages to dispel them with it's copy of the Kubikiribōchō. In response Anko quickly draws out a set of curved kunai which she uses to block the clones next strike before cutting it from waist to chest with her own attack. "Never thought I'd have to use these* again."
While using her kunai to slash at nearby clones Anko quickly summons more snakes to hold them down as Kakashi's dogs move towards the original. As Kakashi see's this he quickly begins gathering chakra into his right hand. "Chidori!" Hearing the jutsu's unusual sound Haku staggers to her feet as Kakashi charges at Zabuza. "I am sorry Uzumaki-san but must save my master." Before Naruto can stop Haku a ice mirror rises up behind her as another appears before Zabuza. "WAIT!" Appearing before Zabuza Haku holds out her arms and prepares to sacrifice himself for him. But just before Kakashi's jutsu strikes chains suddenly wrap around Haku's left arm pulling him away but not before it can slice through his right side and into Zabuza.
Stunned by how quickly things had went Haku simply falls to her knees as she see's the fatal wound Zabuza suffered. "No...I failed him. I failed my master." Just before Kakashi can finish off Zabuza though he sees movement in the thinning mist behind Zabuza and his dogs. "Demon of the Mist? Don't make me laugh if you're a demon you're just a baby one." As Kakashi backs away Zabuza holds one hand against the certainly fatal wound he's just received. "Gatō why are you here. I told you I would handle this." As the mist continues to clear the the area behind Gatō becomes visible as does a large number of thugs. "Zabuza do you want to know why I use missing nin? It's simple they ask fewer questions and unlike the villages if I kill them no one gets mad. I was just waiting for you to be worn down eliminating them but I guess my men will have to do that too since you failed. Kill the missing nin, his injured plaything alongside everyone else present."
For a moment Zabuza is silent before looking at Kakashi & Anko. "We no longer have any reason to fight but can I ask one of you for a kunai. I have a rat to kill and I can't use my sword anymore." For a moment Anko and Kakashi are silent before a kunai flies between them that Zabuza catches by the handle with his teeth. When the two Jonin look back they see Naruto empty handed before he quickly pulls out a set of seals and wraps them around kunai handles before looking back at the Sakura, Hinata, and Shino who have begun to check on Kiba, Akamaru, and Sasuke. While Gatō and his thugs laugh Zabuza begins to rush forward and quickly slashes the throat of the first man to try and stop him before wading into the rest of the group. Very quickly the men's laughs & jeers turn to screams of horror as the aura of a demon seems to surround Zabuza as he slashes, kicks, and stabs his way through them.
Before long though his injuries catch up to him giving a thug a opening to stab him in the back with a spear. As he gets closer and closer to Gatō his injuries grow steadily more numerous and severe until he's through the crowd covered in cuts stabs with broken off spear heads lodged in his back and arms. Before him stands Gatō who's backed against the railing of the bridge as he begs for his life. "Gatō you and I have a destiny in hell!" Before the corrupt businessman can even think of running Zabuza charges forward and slashes him across the chest multiple times before kicking him off the bridge. As Gatō's men see Zabuza turn towards them they see the face of a demon and some begin to run as he moves towards them.
Dropping the kunai he continues to stumble towards the others and Haku before collapsing just beside him. As the injured apprentice comes to he see's Zabuza laying beside him with a small smile on his face. "Zabuza-sama! I'm sorry I failed you...I am a truly worthle..." Despite the pain it causes him Zabuza lifts his arm & lightly hits Haku in his forehead. "Haku shut up." For a moment Haku is silent before Zabuza smiles at him causing Haku to hug him. "Haku I may have taught you that...shinobi shouldn't have emotion as we are just tools. But," hearing this Haku looks up at him, "I was wrong. We are still humans and shouldn't deny that part of ourselves. Raising you was the best thing I ever did Haku-ko", at this Haku looks up sharply before he begins to cry, "so please don't think you failed me. Take my blade and finish my dream..."
As Zabuza passes on Haku begins to shake him as he tries to wake him back up while calling him father as tears roll down his face. While the others back away Naruto slowly comes forward before sitting beside him. "Haku," hearing another voice Haku freezes before looking at Naruto, "I have to ask. Are you part of the Yuki Clan from Kiri?" When Haku slowly nods Naruto removes his headband revealing a seal upon it's back. After pouring chakra into it a scroll with the symbol for water appears much to Haku's confusion.
"Naruto-san my clan is dead I am the las.." Shaking his head Naruto opens the scroll revealing the symbol of Haku's clan a stylized snowflake. "No it's still very much alive Haku. My clan knows what it's like to have others hunting them so when Kiri's Mizukage said we were "a demon cursed clan" they decided to help others in Kiri like us. This scroll contains a map that will show where your clan and others are hiding now. I was given it by my Clan's elders when I became a genin in case I encountered any clan refugees here in the Land of Waves. You should go join them I'm sure they'd be happy to see they have another family member who survived." Taking a scroll Haku slowly nods before hugging Naruto as he begins to cry while crying for the man he viewed as a father.
After a few moments the two boys separate before Naruto looks back sees Sasuke and Kiba sitting up as Sakura hugs them both while Hinata and Shino stand back. "Come on Haku lets get that injury looked at I'm sure Hinata-chan or Sakura can help you." Before the two can move though they here movement from the other side of the bridge. When Naruto turns and sees Gatōs thugs regrouping he quickly forms a shadow clone to carry away Haku while calling to get the other's attention. From amongst the thugs one walks forward holding a large sword over his shoulder. "Now you've done it! How are we supposed to get paid now? I say we kill these fools then pillage the town behind them! What do you say to that boys!" As the few standing Leaf nin prepare to fight a arrow suddenly lands between them and the thugs.
"Like we're gonna let that happen! This is our country and we're not gonna let you or anyone else steal from us again!" As Naruto looks back he smiles as he sees Inari and the other villagers armed with whatever they have standing alongside his clones. Noticing Naruto staring at him with a smile on his face Inari gives him a thumbs up before aiming his crossbow at the gathered thugs. "Well look who decided to show up!" Smiling at Naruto Inari nods before firing another bolt into the bridge between the two groups. "Like you said the hero always shows up at the last minute Naruto-nii!" Seeing the number of villagers gathering alongside the shinobi who are sure to aid them the remaining thugs flee with many jumping over the side of the bridge.
Over the next few days Teams 7 and 8 alongside Haku watch as the bridge is completed after burying Zabuza in a grave overlooking the bridge and sea. The day the teams are supposed to leave is bittersweet as they've all formed friendships with the various Wave villagers. "We can't thank enough for all that you've done. I hope we can see you all again one day." Noticing Inari is about to cry Naruto smiles a bit before saying they'll be sure to visit. "You promise?" "Of course! And Inari it's totally okay to cry." As Kiba points out Naruto is only saying that to cover his own tears Naruto responds by saying he's just got some dirt in his eyes. Shortly after the two teams and Haku begin to walk away while waving back at the villagers.
"They saved us Tazuna how can we ever repay them?" For a moment Tazuna is silent before looking up at the empty bridge sign. "I know how let's honor them by naming this bridge "The Great Leaf Bridge." Hearing this the Wave villagers loudly agree with Tazuna's choice as he unveils a plaque bearing the name. "Thats a great idea Oto-san but I think we should name this gatehouse The Uzumaki Gate and the far one The Momochi Gate seeing as those two did so much to aid us." For a moment many of the villagers are against naming part of the bridge after Zabuza before being reminded by Tazuna that he helped too when he killed Gatō. As they slowly leave the area Inari is left with just his mother and grandfather before they tell him it's time to go home. With a smile very similar to Naruto's he says hai before walking back home with them. "I swear one day I wil see Naruto-nii again."
-2 hours later-
When the group reaches the first split in the road the two Konoha teams wish goodbye to their new friend from Kiri as he his path splits from theirs. "Hey Haku, one day I want to have a rematch my flames versus your ice." Smiling Haku accepts before turning to Naruto & quickly hugging him. "Thank you Naruto-san. Hopefully one day we can see each other again." Smiling Naruto nods before handing him two scrolls for the trip back to Kiri. "You bet we will Haku I swear on my nindo." As the others wish Haku goodbye he looks down at the scroll containing the Kubikiribōchō that Kakashi alongside the ones Naruto gave him. "I hope to see you all again one day. But I must go now and fulfill my Tousan's dream." As the group begins to head back none but Kakashi & Anko notice the slight rustling in the forest once they cross back into the Land of Fire. "So they had Uzumaki, & likely Kazama, chunin or jonin watching. I guess they knew there was a chance it could escape."
Hours later as the group rests Naruto walks up to Anko and asks if he can speak with her for a moment. Knowing what it will be about Anko leads the silent blonde away before placing down a privacy seal. "No one can hear us what would you like to talk about Shortie." For a moment Naruto is silent before telling her how he used the 9-Tails power on the bridge. "I already know Shortie. As does Kakashi we felt it's chakra when it first erupted from you. It's.." "It's not okay! What if I had hurt or killed one of you! If I do again I mi..." To Naruto's surprise Anko lightly raps him on his forehead to silence him. "Tell me Naruto do you know who my jonin-sensei was?", when Naruto shakes his head she quickly crouches down before pulling her shirt and jacket to the side on her left shoulder revealing a seal encircled by another larger seal, "My sensei was the traitor Orochimaru of the Sannin."
Stepping back in shock Naruto looks up at Anko and is surprised to see her showing her softer side for once. "The inner seal is one of his cursed seals that he gave me just before he betrayed the village and fled. If it wasn't for your clan his cursed seal would have a chance of activating if we ever met again or if I used too much chakra. Now like you I am shunned for something I didn't do but also like you that does not make me the one people hate. You are not the Kyubbi and I am not Orochimaru and neither of us will become them. So long as you work to avoid using it's power you'll be okay, alright Shortie?" Wiping away a few tears Naruto impulsively hugs Anko causing her to awkwardly hug back with one arm before rapping him again on the head to make him let go. "Alright that's enough soft stuff Shortie! Let's rejoin the others and head home." Smiling again Naruto quickly runs back to rejoin his team while Anko walks over to Kakashi who quietly chuckles.
"Quiet scarface!" Looking between Naruto and Anko the Jonin's eye seems to light up in amusement. "Who would've thought the cold Anko Mitarashi being nice to another person." Quickly telling the genin their break is over Anko glares at Kakashi who responds by giving her one of his signature eye smiles. Hours later as they get closer to Konoha Naruto looks around before strongly pulsing his chakra twice suddenly much to the other's confusion. "Na-Naruto-kun why di-did you do that?" Pointing to the discrete signs pointing towards Konoha Naruto smiles. "I know my clan's seals we should be close enough to the village walls for their sensor seals to detect that. It's a Uzumaki signal that everything is okay & our mission was a success. Harue-nee told me to do it when I got within 5KM of the village."
For a moment the other genin are surprised before they ask if the seals can really detect stuff that far away. "With the seals my clan has given the village they could sense those pulses but not us. I basically sent out two waves of chakra that were strong enough to reach the barrier itself and cause a reaction. At this range only Kage level or above could truly be sensed but the closer we get the better they can sense us." Looking to the jonin for confirmation they're surprised to see them nod before Kakashi mentions that as they were taught in the Academy the Uzumaki are famed for their seals. "Though I do wish they wouldn't be quite so open with village security to genin since it is one of our village's protective measures." As Kakashi says this he looks at Naruto who at least has the decency to look down sheepishly while rubbing the back of his head.
As the sun begins to sink over the horizon the teams are greeted at the gates by their families & are told by their sensei to take tomorrow off but that training will resume at their normal time the day after. As the genin are led away Kakashi and Anko head over to the Hokage's office to give their reports on the mission. "You realize we're gonna have to tell him about what Naruto told that Yuki clansmen right?" Waving his free hand dismissively as he continues reading Kakashi briefly looks back. "Hai hai though I'm sure he already knows. He isn't called the Professor just because his knowledge of jutsu you know." Shortly afterwards they're allowed into the Hokage's office where they quickly give their reports which causes him to pull out and light his pipe.
"Thank you for reporting this all to me. I'll be sure to talk to the Uzumaki about what you mentioned tomorrow though I doubt they'll stop they've always been very passionate in their desire to help others. You're free to receive you & your team's payments alongside the bonuses for the elimination of the Demon Brother's." As the day ends Hiruzen heads towards the top of the Hokage Mansion before taking a longer draw from his pipe. "I'll have to ensure they give me a complete list of just which clans they've saved and how many. I'll also have to make sure he doesn't find out otherwise he'll try to kidnap their members." Calling out to one of his nearby Anbu Hiruzen orders them to tell the Uzumaki to come in for meeting the next day.
-next day-
As Naruto walked around his clan's compound he talks with various younger relatives before getting called to speak with the Elders and Kaida. Upon entering their meeting room he quickly said hello before sitting beside Kaida at his usual spot as the future Clan Head. After each member has sat Kaida rises and bows to her kinsmen. "Thank you all for coming. Now as you all know Naruto-sa..", muttering about his aunt's refusal to stop calling him san gets most of those present a muffled laugh, "Naruto-san met a member of Kiri's Yuki Clan & gave them a scroll leading him home. Unfortunately his jonin-sensei heard of this as did Kakashi Hatake leading to them telling the Hokage of what we've been doing in Kiri. While I doubt he will order us to stop I am sure he will accept just which clans we've saved and how many. So who has that list?"
Raising his hand a Uzumaki elder pulls a scroll out of his kimono's right sleeve. "I have it Kaida-san. I will have it to you before you must meet with him." Nodding Kaida smiles at the man before returning to the rest of the room. "Thank you, Kano-san. Now let's move on to our other items before the Hokage calls on one or all of us." While the Elders and Kaida discuss various issues within the Clan Naruto spends his time designing a new seal though he does pay attention when they discuss the old homeland. "Excuse me Emiko-baachan", hearing Naruto she looks towards him and motions for him to continue, "you said Uzushio's whirlpools were empowered by our clan's chakra how can that still be? We haven't been there in decades." For a moment Emiko and the others look down as they remember the attack on their old home vividly.
After a moment Kaida shakes off the ghosts of the past before looking at her nephew with a sad smile on her face. "Naruto-san, it's because the Elders, Sealmasters, & former Clan Head's actions that our home's seals still work. Prior to activating the wrath seals they massively overcharged the whirlpools seals to the point none could use water walking to cross them. Myself and others like me only escaped because they opened up a few small holes in them that have since closed." Before they can say anything else a clansmen opens the room's door slightly to announce the Hokage has summoned Kaida, Emiko, & Kano Uzumaki to his office. "Alright this meeting is adjourned we will be sure to tell you all what we discuss with him during our next one. Naruto if you could please take Karin & her team the food I prepared for them." Nodding Naruto stands and pops his back before waving goodbye. "Ok Oba-san."
While the elders disperse to inform the various branches of the family of any changes Naruto heads over to the kitchen before grabbing the scroll holding his cousin's & her team's food before heading out. "What should I do after this? Anko-sensei told us to take the day off but I'm so bored already. Maybe I can convince Shino & Hinata-chan to come over? But what would we do I can't ask them to come over just to train? Ahhh I'll figure it out once I see them!" Quickly using his chakra to run up a nearby building Naruto heads off to drop off the food as fast as he can while sending two clones to see if his friends are free. When he sees Karin's team he quickly calls out her name to get their attention.
"Naruto-otō what are you doing here? Isn't it your turn to sit in during the meetings?" Waving off Karin's unspoken accusation Naruto tosses her the scroll holding the food. "That's already over Jiji called your mom, Emiko-baachan, & Kano-teme to talk about what our clan has been doing. She told me to give you guys this. Well see you later Karin-nee!" Rolling her eyes at Naruto's dismissive attitude about being a clan heir Karin nevertheless smiles as he takes off. "See yah Otō." As Naruto keeps running off he waves without looking back before heading towards the Aburame Compound. "Now let's see if Shino is still free." A few moments later as Naruto gets closer to the Aburame Compound he notices more insects are flying around him. "I know you can report back so can you go tell Shino I'm coming over."
Once he's closer to the compound Naruto notices that Shino is waiting for him by the clan's gates. "Greetings Naruto-san, what can I do for you today? If I remember one of your clones was by earlier before dispelling itself once it saw I was still here." Smiling Naruto holds up his right fist that Shino lightly taps in with his own. "Yeah I was wondering if you wanted to come over to my compound to train and hang out." For a moment Shino is silent though his insects seem louder than normal before he says he is able to spend time with Naruto and Hinata. "Alright then let's go get Hinata-chan!" After saying goodbye to Shino's parents and clan Naruto quickly leads his teammate and friend towards the Hyūga Compound. "Naruto-san how come you wanted to train with myself and Hinata-san today?"
Shrugging his shoulders Naruto turns around to face Shino as they walk along the road to the Hyūga's compound. "Honestly I just wanted to see my friends mostly. I like my clan but most of them are too serious around me due to my status as the future clan head. But you guys are normal with me plus I've known you both since I was a kid." Taken aback by Naruto's honesty Shino takes a steadying breath before responding. "So you view me as a friend Naruto-san?" Surprised by Shino's words Naruto stops for a moment before turning to look at Shino. "Of course I do Shino! You may be a bit quiet but you're still my friend. Plus you & your clan were never mean to me like others were. Plus your guys jutsu is just so cool!"
Holding up a unsteady hand Shino shows a small but poignant smile with Naruto who smiles back. "I...Thank you Naruto-san. I will be sure to tell my clan how you feel." In a move that surprises Shino he's quickly wrapped up in a sideways hug by Naruto who tells him not to worry about it. "Now let's go get Hinata-chan!" "My father was right he & his clan truly don't judge us for our hives." "Yes let's Naruto." As the two boys get closer to the Hyūga's compound they're surprised to see Hinata waiting for them near the gate already. "Naruto-san did you send a clone ahead?" Nodding Naruto waves to Hinata who shyly waves back. "Kinda I sent a clone the same way I did with you. She must've seen us coming with those eyes of hers." Before they can speak to Hinata though her uncle comes out to the gate and they're asked to follow him. "Uzumaki-san & Aburame-san, my brother Hiashi-sama would like to speak with you both." While Shino & Hinata are perfectly fine following Hizashi inside Naruto briefly freezes before following while muttering to himself. "Still got it. He's still afraid I'm going to get him back for that last prank."
After ushering the three into Hiashi's office Hizashi takes his position slightly behind of and to his brother's right to watch. "I assume you wish to see if my daughter can go with you two to the Uzumaki Compound? Tell me Uzumaki-san what exactly do you plan to do train for her that she can't do here in our dojos?" "Hmm what can I say? Taijutsu is out. Maybe nin or fuin? I know there aren't many specialists of that in this clan. Yeah that should work." "Hyūga-sama I was planning to have Hinata-chan and Shino-san work with me on countering any weaknesses they may have in regards to ninjutsu and fuinjutsu. In return I was going to seek their help with my taijutsu and chakra control as they both have me beat in those areas. That is if we have your permission to take Hinata-chan with us, Hyūga-sama." While the others are surprised at how quickly and politely Naruto responded to Hiashi's comments Hiashi himself is happy to see how the boy has matured. "If he keeps maturing like this I think one day he'll make a fine Hokage like his father." Making it appear as if he's considering Naruto's words Hiashi let's the boy sweat for a moment before nodding. "I will allow you to take her with you provided she returns home no later than 10pm. Is that clear Uzumaki-san?" Bowing Naruto sighs on the inside as he looks back up. "Hai Hyūga-sama."
After they are dismissed Naruto quickly flashes Hinata and Shino one of his signature grins as they make for the gate. "Naruto-san I am surprised you came up with such reasons so quickly." As Naruto laughs quietly Hinata simply shakes her head before hesitantly agreeing with Shino. "Kaito-nii always told me to consider talking to Old Man Hiashi as training for being Hokage. I think I've gotten better at it right Hinata-chan?" Nodding Hinata smiles at her crush as they continue to run towards the Uzumaki's home. "H-Hai Naruto-kun yo-you have. B-But I am sure my Tousan wo-would not appreciate that old man comment." Laughing like a kid without a care in the world Naruto jumps atop a wall and looks down at his friends smiling brightly.
"Which is why I will never say it to him hehe. I may like pranking people but I'm not a complete moron." While Hinata giggles Shino smiles and rolls his eyes behind his sunglasses. "Just a partial one then?" Barely holding in her giggle as Naruto keeps looking at her Hinata shakes her head at the two. "Yeah..Oi Shino!" Unable to hold it in Hinata begins laughing quite clearly alongside Shino as Naruto vents at his friend before challenging him to a spar. As the group gets closer to the Uzumaki Compound Naruto suddenly freezes up before running in without his friends. "Na-Naruto-kun wait. Where ar-are you going?" Looking back Naruto smiles back at his friends before taking off deeper into the compound. "Kaito-nii is back!"
While Shino and Hinata struggle to keep up with Naruto they can't help but smile at how excited he us to see his older brother figure. For just a moment they lose sight of him before hearing the unmistakeable sound of a smaller body colliding with another. "KAITO-NII YOU'RE BACK!" Coming around the corner they're greeted with the sight of the larger Uzumaki on his back as Naruto wraps his arms and legs around him. All around the two Uzumaki and Kazama laugh at the expected scene. "Get off me you blonde monkey!"
Seeing the two genin Kaito smiles as he looks up at them before pretending to try and break free again. "Alright alright let me go already otōto." Walking through the crowd Harue laughs a bit before shaking her head at him. "Anata you know he can't do that he missed you. But so did I so Naruto-kun please let my husband go." Quickly letting Kaito go Naruto decides to hug Harue as well since he hasn't seen her much lately either. "Only cause you asked me too Harue-nee!" A few moments later once everyone has calmed down Kaito and Harue decide to help the kids train in order to see how much Naruto has grown. "Alright Naruto what did you want to work on?" Thinking back to what he told Hiashi and what Anko had made comments on Naruto smiles at the two. "Well Harue-nee I thought Hinata-chan could learn some longer range jutsu, Shino-san could use some that don't rely on his hive, & I needed some help with my control."
As the two former Anbu talk over Naruto's plan Harue creates a few clones before sending them back to her house to get a few scrolls. "Hmm I think I have a few jutsu that are perfect for Shino-san. You're primary chakra nature is earth right?", as Shino nods the first clone comes back with 3 scrolls, "Take any of these scrolls they're between D-C rank with 2 jutsu on them. If you need to you can even take the scroll home to practice the jutsu though I ask you give them back once you're done." After taking the top scroll Shino thanks Harue before opening it. "The two jutsu on here are called Hiding Mole jutsu & Earth Dragon Bullet." Thinking back to what she knows of the Aburame boy Harue mentally goes over each jutsu.
"I think you should work on the mole jutsu first Shino-san it's easier to master and uses less chakra." Bowing his head Shino before looking over to one side of the small dojo. "I will thank you Harue-sama." While Harue helps Shino with the basics of his first jutsu Kaito gets Hinata's attention by pulling and tossing a scroll towards her. "That contains a few water jutsus I've learned and picked up in my time. Feel free to keep it till you either learn them all & I'll give yah another afterwards." Bowing her head Hinata bows deeply before smiling up at the man. "Tha-Thank you Kaito-sama!" Before Naruto can say a word about what he'll be doing he's suddenly enveloped by wire from behind before he hears a very familiar laugh. "You Naruto will be training with me for now." As the Kazama Head drags Naruto back Kaito and Harue laugh quietly at his expression. "Oh crap I knew Mito-baa was at the compound but I thought she'd be busy."
As Naruto attempts to escape Mito reinforces the wire with her chakra before dragging him away much to the amusement of Kaito and confusion of his friends. "Umm Ha-Harue-chan, why is M-Mito-sama dragging away Naruto-kun?" Before responding Harue smacks Kaito over the head & tells him to focus. "Naruto has always been nervous around my aunt when it comes to training. She's naturally a sweet woman in all things but when it comes to that she's a slave driver which makes it even funnier for my idiot husband. But enough of that we're here to help..." Before Harue says more she suddenly covers her mouth before running towards the nearest bathroom. Seeing his young wife obviously in some kind of trouble Kaito quickly forms a set of clones to watch Naruto's friends and tell Mito what happened before rushing off. "I'll be back later hopefully!" At the clones insistence the two quickly begin working on their new jutsus though it's clear their minds aren't fully in it.
While this is occurring Mito finally stops dragging Naruto with the wires after reaching one of the more seldom used dojos. "Alright Naruto-kun, since you want to work on your control I've got a few exercises for your clones to do while you and me do one I learned from a friend. I want you to create 90 clones and have them divide up into groups of 30.", as Mito speaks Naruto quickly forms the clones, "Good you're getting better at controlling the number of clones you make. Now group one you will be practicing the leaf exercise only with ryo coins. Since they're heavier it'll take not only more chakra but also more control to get them to spin over your foreheads. Group two you guys will practice water walking on water that's extremely turbulent it should help you build your control by actively forcing you to quickly adjust the required chakra. And group three you guys are unlucky cause you get to work on Naruto's elemental chakra. Naruto you will follow me." After taking Naruto to the rear wall of the dojo Mito tells him to close his eyes & sit to try and feel his chakra moving. "Tell me Naruto what does it feel like? Can you feel it moving through your body?" For a few moments Naruto is silent even as the noise of his clones rises and falls before he says he can feel it.
"Good, now tell me how could you describe your chakra?" Keeping his eyes closed Naruto oncemore feels the chakra moving in his body. "It feels like a stormy sea. But why does that matter?" Trying to think of a way to tactfully answer his question Mito is silent for a minute. "I want you to learn how to calm your chakra. If you can learn to do this it'll help you learn to control how much chakra you use in your jutsu. It may also help you learn to control it if it's chakra ever enters your chakra network in large amounts." Just as Mito expected Naruto's eyes snap open as the Kyubbi is mentioned but before she can say a word another Uzumaki runs into the dojo calling for her attention. "What is it Naoko-san can't you see I'm working with Naruto on something." Stopping and taking a deep breath the Uzumaki civilian bows to the Kazama Matriarch. "Forgive me Mito-sama and Naruto-sama but Kaida-sama told me to alert you two." Growing increasingly nervous Mito stands up even as Naruto looks up between the two adults."Alert me about what?"
"Your niece Harue Uzumaki had to go to the hospital.." Before the man can say anymore both Naruto and Mito have seemingly teleported out of the room leaving their clones stunned to the point they quickly dispel as they lose control of whatever exercises they were doing. Within a few minutes both arrive at the Konoha Hospital just in time to see Kaito walking out with a stunned expression. "Kaito-nii what's wrong with Harue-nee!? Naoka told us she was taken to the hospital!" Sighing Kaito laughs for a bit before looking at the two with a rather amused expression. "And neither of you listened long enough for him to tell you why? I should've known."
Laughing again Kaito at the two who quickly tell him to stop & just tell them what happened. "It's wonderful news Otōto & Kaa-san I'm going to be a father in about 6 months!" For a moment neither makes a sound before the whole village suddenly hears them shout in joy. "HARUE-NEE/CHAN IS GONNA HAVE A BABY!" Facepalming hard enough to leave a mark Kaito can only nod at the two. "Well so much for keeping it quiet..." As the two continue to celebrate Kaito quickly shakes both of them to get their attention. "Alright alright that's enough you two. Kami help me I'm sure they heard you two in Kumo! Now calm down so I can take you two inside. By the way Naruto I sent your friends home but you can tell them tomorrow if you'd like." As the day comes to a close Mito and Naruto quickly follow Kaito into the hospital so they can congratulate Harue on being pregnant even as Kaito continues to chuckle at how excited they are.
-Present Day-
Sitting on the roof with his daughter the blonde man smiles and laughs at her joy. "I see you're as happy as I was then." Nodding rapidly the little bluenette girl climbs back into her father's lap and looks out to the sea. "Papa can you tell me more about Haku?" Smiling the man nods before thinking back to what Haku told him occurred when he'd made it back home.
-Mizu no Kuni-
As the small boat slowly comes to stop upon the rocky shore with cliffs surrounding the small inlet the lone occupant looks around for others. Relieved to see no others nearby the young man drags his little dingy far above the high tide mark and hides it behind a set of boulders. Looking down at the map in his hand he smiles at reaching the last leg of his journey home. Looking once more at the instructions on the scroll he soon begins making his way up a remarkably slippery and narrow pathway.
For hours the young man makes his way up the cliff face before stopping just before the edge to take a breather. Standing ever so slowly he climbs the final few feet and upon reaching the top sees two men sitting just beside the path. "Greetings stranger what brings you all the way out here?" Knowing the two are not what they seem the young man removes his hood and smiles while his recently cut hair frames his face.
"A new friend of mine told me this island has the best ramen in all of Mizu no Kuni. And said I should try the chōseki ramen especially." For a moment neither men moves before they smile and nod at the man. "Ahh yes our chōseki is quite famous with those who know of it. So friend what's your name?" Smiling Haku relaxes as the chakra signatures he felt closing in cease moving closer and soon disappear. "Haku..My name is Haku Yuki. And what's yours friend?" Eyes blinking in surprise the man to Haku's right takes his own hood off revealing short cut blue hair above a pair of glasses. "My name is Chōjūro. The man to my left is *Shamon and I'm sure he knows whichever little friend told you of us."
"Oh I'm sure he does the blonde maelstrom. But tell me was my friend telling the truth about my people?" Smiling Shamon turns and motions for him to follow while Chōjūro follows behind him. Within a few moments the trio have walked around a bend in the cliff and a verdant valley lies before them. "You tell me Haku-san." Looking across the valley Haku see's multiple small compounds bearing symbols he had learned long ago, including one that stunned him, before his eyes settle on a pale white stylized snowflake. With tears in his eyes Haku hugged Shamon who awkwardly hugged him back before the trio began making their way into the valley proper passing dozens of shinobi training while bearing the symbol of Kiri on white headbands.
*-I need names for Anko's blades if anyone has any ideas I'm open. I've got some ideas for more unique abilities they'll show later too
*-take a guess of which clan he's from I'm sure it's pretty obvious though he's not thr typical shinobi
Alright I'm leaving it there! We'll see more of our friend Haku later in the story & don't worry Shamon, and a few like him, will make their own larger appearance in a coming arc!
Rewrite-3/1-3/2/2021