A New Nindo
Disclaimer: If I owned Naruto I would be rich, I don't. If I did own it I wouldn't be counting my pennies like the pauper I am. I have begun to borrow jutsus from another author, specifically Tokehgecko who has given me their permission. I will point out which jutsus I borrowed in the author's notes at the end of chapter. For more information on the jutsus I borrowed from the author visit TokehGecko's There Where When is Now, Book series. This story does not reflect the ability of any authors I borrowed from. In other words if my story sucks it's not their fault, it's mine. This version of the Naruto story belongs to me; most of the characters belong to Masashi Kishimoto.
Summary: What if you died? What if it was a mistake? What if you were given a chance to step out of your normal everyday life and become hero? I'd grab the chance. This is my story.
I will use techniques from Shadow Skill, Street Fighter, and Shura no Toki/Mon. Even though it may seem like Naruto has a lot of techniques it doesn't mean he's godlike, Sharingan Kakashi is suppose to have copied over a 1,000 jutsus and he isn't stronger than a sannin, he's only a top jounin. He's also below Itachi and Orochimaru. So I think that Naruto's large arsenal provides versatility not necessarily power.
Story is in 1st person but is meant to include other character's thoughts and views, a hybrid mix of 1st and 3rd person view. It may be confusing I apologize this is just the way I want to write the story. I started out writing it this way and it kinda stuck with me. Thank you for your understanding.
Will repeat important statements at the end of chapter.
Author's Notes:
1) Italics include my thoughts as well as other characters' thoughts. Bold is for the Kyuubi's thoughts.
2) Haku is a girl!
3) No Yaoi
4) Secret Jutsu list is on my Author's Profile
5) All character bio info is taken from Naurtofan(dot)com.
6) For pairings please vote for Itachi/Tsume/Kurenai/Anko and Kakashi/Kurenai/OC
Tsume is a name I made up for Kiba's sister.
7) Neji and Hinata are close friends and act as siblings. Not romantic for now. Can change depending on people's reviews/votes.
Votes for Pairings (I need to recount them to make sure but this is the jist of it, I only counted up reviews from last chapter)
Shika/Ino… 6
Shika/Tem… 16
Itachi/Anko… 13
Itach/Kure… 5
Itachi/Tsume… 11
People don't seem to really care about changing Kakashi's pairing so I'll leave it as is but if people really want to I can change it to Kakashi/Kurenai. Voting is still open for him
Pairing Voting is still open! Vote while you still can!
I feel it's important to point out that I am venting my frustration at Sakura because she was so pathetic in the beginning. Don't lie to yourselves, we all thought the same thing until the Forest of Death. She will be stronger and so will Ino, I can't stand having useless characters in my story unless they're the enemy or scum/villains who are about to die. But don't forget this is NARUTO, the anime is not named Sasuke or Sakura or anyone else. So the focus will be on Naruto. It will focus on his friends as well, mostly Genins but Itachi, Jiraiya, Tsunade, etc. will have their moment soon (not too soon, Chuunin Exam soon, can't say anymore, surprise).
I've broken the 300 review mark, YEAH! Thanks a lot guys and girls for reviewing!
Reviews:
Edengrave: Thank you for your length review. I can tell you put a lot of thought into this one. Hokuto Shin Ken is from Fist of the North Star right? I can't comment on that because I want to surprise people but it may appear (may means it most definitely will I just don't want to ruin the surprise).
OCs will appear during but mostly after Chuunin exam. I am planning several huge arcs after known Naruto storyline. They will be a continuation of A New Nindo the teasers are at the bottom of my author's profile.
I will work in the Genjutsu very soon. You'll get a glimpse of Naruto's awesome Genjutsu abilities in the next chapter.
As for what I happened to Jyuuken I can't say shit but it's killing me that I can't say anything till the Chuunin Exam. I don't want Naruto to spar with Neji cause it will give away Neji's Shin (new) Jyuuken. Still I haven't even given you guys a glimpse of the Hyuuga clan's ultimate technique.
I also can't tell you what he's gonna do with the money but it will be explained. There's also no real need to improve anything because Konoha is fine, for now (hint).
You'll see Naruto's new training methods soon too.
Virgil: Sakura will get stronger, read above reviews for notes. Sasuke won't be able to copy, it will be explained later. Part of it has to do with Kyuubi chakra. Thanks for understanding my feelings and views about Naruto's large arsenal.
Thanks for telling me the name of the Hurricane kick. I knew the Tatsumaki part but not the rest. Do you know the Japanese name for Fei-Long's kick the one where he sets his leg on fire?
You are a very scary man. Your ideas for Rasengan run very parallel to my own. I can't say what they are it's a surprise, but if you guys really want I'll use it (my level 4-5 which is pretty similar to yours) in the next chapter. Maybe, it depends on voting. I can't tell anyone what the steps are but I have already made them all up till level 8, my speculations of course. No amount of voting will make me reveal up till level 8 until way later. It's for plot purposes to show Naruto's growth.
Thanks a lot for your review. Reviews make me want to crank them out faster.
Author's Notes: How many people want to see Naruto's Rasengan powered up in the next chapter? Please vote. I require at least ten votes for me to consider using a powered up version. Powered up does not mean fully powered up. He'll be step 4-5 not 8.
I also remember hearing that Rasengan had 8 stages can someone tell me where that was said in the manga? I think it was somewhere on Narutofan(dot)com.
Tyheru: First off, there will be angst later. Naruto does have competition, he just hasn't encountered it. They will appear next chapter. Also thanks for pointing that out. I rewrote chapter 10, Naruto's dream is to be a Sannin level ninja. I didn't say Hokage because I'm trying to put myself in Naruto's shoes. How many of us really want to be Hokage? Deal with all that paperwork and administration. It's like being President, a real troublesome and hard job. Don't get me wrong I have respect for people who take leadership roles but let's face it not all of us are meant to be leaders or do we want to be. This Naruto is definitely the latter but he will be forced to assume leadership positions in the future.
You're right OCs aren't really necessary now because of Naruto's wide cast. Will become necessary and apparent after Chuunin Exams.
Everyone will be stronger like I said I can't stand weak useless characters unless they're the bad guys or scum about to die. Rock Lee will be stronger but I can't say how until later.
Ying and Yang Twins: (Bows) Thank you very much for your review. I'm being serious when I say that I'm honored by your high praise. It warms my heart to see people enjoying my fanfic.
Meheeners: Thanks for your review. It will continue to be that way. Even though it follows timeline and story things will be different.
Scented Candles: I'm glad you've joined the Naruto Anime Fan Club ranks, seriously I'm always scouring school for people who appreciate anime. People seem against Nejihina so if I do it, I'll have to tread carefully and it will be complex. For now they're just really close friends.
Bunch-O-Nuts: I'm sorry I know you're happy for the week, but I've got another chapter for you. Yay! Not exactly, Kazuma Arashi, similar names have been floating around on fanfiction(dot)net and I just felt like it sounded good. It seems to be a popular name for the 4th.
PersonaJXT: Yeah Neji and Hinata will probably just be friends, for now that is all they are. Naruto will begin to use the Raijin no Ken a lot more in the next chapter.
Rhythmic: Thanks a lot for your review. I'm glad you liked the way I did the bell test. I hope other people feel the same. Please continue in your faithful reviewing.
Zhuyou: Oh if only you knew who Naruto's enemies were gonna be. OMG! You'll have to just read and find out how he compares against REAL enemies.
Aldunis: They are cousins but I've read several complex and beautifully written fics about them together. I'm waiting on the majority's opinion on whether I should pair them because incest is an issue.
Tombadgerlock: Thanks for your review. Read the notes above reviews for info about Sakura and Naruto cast.
Dragon Man 180: You won't be disappointed although it will be a little less funny. Wave Country will be more serious.
Wolvesmon: Thanks, I just wanted to make some annoying fan girls for Naruto.
Blazer-6: The other girl for Naruto's threeway is still up in the air but I like your suggestion. It has significant reasoning behind it that gives it plausibility.
For Itachi and Anko or Kurenai, who really cares about their ages? They're all adults.
Chocobaby: Thanks for your review. I'm glad you like the Nejihina pairing. I don't know if I'll be able to do it though. I'll try my best.
Daniel Lynx: I can tell you for certain that when I hit the later half of the Chuunin Exam I will send you an email. If you like you can send me some suggestions in an email. I know it's Kazama Arashi but I felt like writing Kazuma because it felt better to me. Unless Kazama Arashi is his real name?
By the way do you know the Japanese name for Fei-Long's blazing kick from StreetFighters?
Author's Notes: If anyone else wants to help they can. I accept suggestions in emails and reviews.
Cobra-100: I have thought about a Harem situation for Naruto but all I'm coming up is situations that remind me of Love Hina or Tenchi series.
Bryr: Sure you can vote twice, only once per chapter though. If people start abusing this then I'll probably only count votes once per person. Although at this point it seems like he'll be with Anko so you don't need to vote twice.
Gargoylesama: Thanks, I understand what you're saying it's common sense. But this is fanfiction and if the reviewers want me to I'll give it to them. However don't worry it's only friendship for now.
Kaba-chan: Yeah I can definitely see that happening with Neji. Also I was trying to do that with the previews, glad you noticed. I like that angle for Itachi/Anko. I actually planned to incorporate a working relationship for them to start out as a possibility.
Ranma Hibiki: I'm very glad you found it funny, that was the point. But you should calm down now since the serious fighting will start soon. Thanks for the review.
Warning Fluff between Naruto and Haku will take up a part of chapter. I just want to get it out of the way and because I said Valentines was coming up in the last chapter. Plus Haku's birthday is on January 9th according to Narutofan(dot)com.
Chapter 11: Devil of the Bloody Mist
Personally I was getting sick and tired of shitty missions. Weed this garden, walk these dogs, and find this cat.
Poor cat…
I remembered the cat from Team 7's latest mission. I felt pity for it as it was being smothered by its owner, Madam Shijimi.
I remember Sakura saying, "I can see why it ran away."
Things with Team 7 were going okay. Sakura was still hopeless for now, I knew that she would change later but I could only hope it would be all too soon. We could be in a dangerous situation and she'd be nothing but a dead weight.
Sasuke was his usual broody self, we trained on some days. I only used techniques of Konoha against him. In other words only techniques that he could have learnt on his own. I didn't want to show him my new techniques because I didn't want him to copy them or get suspicious of me (Author's Note: Kyuubi style!). I had ways of countering his Sharingan which hadn't appeared yet. Using Kyuubi chakra I can make it so he can't predict my movements, plus my tenketsus are covered up.
Aside from the three women in my life, Hinata, Neji, Sandaime, Jiraiya, Itachi, Kakashi, Ibiki, and Hayate were the only ones who I had told or knew about the Kyuubi being sealed in me.
Even without the curse seal Sasuke was power hungry but he seemed to have this puppy dog idolism for Itachi so I thought he'd be okay. Sasuke seemed happiest when Itachi came to train him. Itachi was frequently busy, he'd been an ANBU commander but that was a far cry from being captain of the police force. He had arranged for parts of the Uchiha district to be changed into lodging quarters for his new recruits. This was a very good decision on his part because as I was walking through the district I noticed that it had a homely feeling to it.
When Shisui murdered the Uchiha Clan it was desolate and I felt like I could feel ghosts nearby. Even before that the Uchiha district didn't feel like a warm place. Even among their own there was tension. It was so heavy that I could cut it with a knife whenever I passed by.
We had been doing missions for a month now and I had just realized something when I looked at the calendar.
"Haku-chan's birthday!" I shouted.
Good thing no one was home, otherwise Haku would have known that I nearly forgot. Okay so I had a couple of days, no problem. I have lots of money no problem. Problem was I didn't know what to get Haku. To elaborate you have to know my girlfriend first.
Haku was not materialistic. She liked having things like any other girl but she didn't have to kill someone to get it. She liked simple things, like spending the day under the sakura tree above the Hokage Monument. She liked spending time with people precious to her. That was a lot like myself. After coming to this world I wasn't very materialistic because they didn't have things like PS2 or X-Box. I almost cried when I found out but training with chakra and jutsus was just as awesome.
It's kinda nice knowing your girlfriend's down to earth. Still I only wanted the best for her because I loved her so much and spending the day with her just didn't seem like enough of proclaiming my love for her.
As for money, my Icha Icha Schooldays series was as popular among teenagers and women as Icha Icha Paradise was among pervert adults. I shuddered to think what would happen if the girls found out I was the author. I was popular enough as is I didn't need a fan club to rival Sasuke's. I still didn't know what to do with the money plus I didn't want anyone to ask where I got it.
First I needed to see Shino, I needed his help for one of my surprises to her. Then I scoured every store in Konoha looking for the perfect present. I knew she liked kimonos, hell I liked how unimaginably cute she looked in them. Especially that pink one, definitely my favorite. I tried looking for a kimono but I just couldn't find one that was really magnificent. I was about to give up when I saw the perfect present in a store that I hadn't considered.
Haku's Birthday…
Haku's POV…
I'm happy to be surrounded by my family on my birthday. Naruto invited Neji's team, the Hyuugas, and Uchihas. We decided to give Sasuke a break and not invite Sakura and Ino. Although perhaps it was for the best, I wasn't really familiar with those two and Naruto didn't seem to associate with them besides Sakura as a teammate.
Tsunade-sama and Shizune-san were the chaperones. It's too bad Neji and Hinata's parents couldn't make it. Some sort of clan meeting with the Hokage. Oh well Hanabi and Hanamori came.
I watched Hanabi and Hanamori move throughout the party and at first glance it would seem like Hanamori was following Hanabi when it was actually the other way around. It was so sweet to find your best friend at such a young age. Hanamori seemed very relaxed even when they branded her with the curse seal on her forehead. She would sometimes joke about it, saying it was proof of her devotion to her friend. She's wearing a bandanna like always over it along with a smile.
Itachi-san, Sasuke, and Naruto are conversing about something.
Probably about training. I swear they have one track minds.
Lee is trying to entertain us women, by us I mean Tenten, some girls from the hospital, and I. We had a few laughs at his antics and I merely sat there, stroking Usagi-chan (Author's Note: the rabbit makes a comeback, I didn't forget her).
Idate was trying to be charming as usual. It was a lot more effective on my fellow nurses than me. He knows how devoted I am to Naruto-kun but he probably just thinks I'm a bigger challenge.
It was later in the night when Naruto snuck me out and we went to the sacred grove. I wonder what he has in store for me. Knowing Naruto it's probably something romantically sweet and thoughtful. I wasn't disappointed.
"What are we doing here Naruto-kun?" I asked.
Naruto was silent and just stood there holding my hand, watching the stars. I'm not complaining here, there aren't many things better than spending time with the boy I love in one our special places. I was just a little curious as to why we were here.
"You know I had trouble finding a present for you," he said. "I wanted to find the perfect present but what could I get the Suisho no Hime?"
Naruto liked to call me that, I supposed it was his pet name for me. I hardly ever think about the Suisho Clan that I'm from. When I'm with Naruto it doesn't hurt when I do think about them. I thought the name was sweet, but I was concentrating more on what he was saying. Still I could my blood rush to my cheeks.
"Then I saw the perfect present," he said as he casually dipped his hands in the pond.
I didn't think anything of it until I saw him put something in front of me.
"Oh my god…" I breathed.
"A flower for you," he said with a smile.
This wasn't just any flower, it was a flower made from crystals. The intricate design made it seem so real, not to mention the colors. Green for the stem and leaves, blue for the petals. It was so beautiful a work art that had to have been crafted by hand. I was so touched I wanted to cry tears of happiness.
"Naruto…" I whispered.
"You know, I love you," he said. "You're very special to me, I mean Kaasan and Neechan are special too but… well… you know… I guess all I really wanted to say is that you really light up my life you know?"
I smiled at Naruto but was shocked when I saw fireflies appear behind him and encircle the entire grove. It was a magical sight, I had to gasp and I almost forgot to breath. It was truly magical. As the beautiful lights danced around us I couldn't hold back my tears as I kissed him.
End Haku's POV…
Naruto's POV…
Oh yeah, I'm the man. Thank you Shino. I couldn't have pulled off the fireflies without your help. I mean how else was I gonna get fireflies to appear outside of summer. Good thing I wrote Icha Icha Schooldays otherwise I would never have had the money to have the crystal flower custom made. Still money's no object when my Haku-chan's involved.
I had seen a crystal flower in a store window and immediately a thought came to me. I had a flower custom made for Haku. As for money, it was expensive, so expensive I considered killing the swindler and taking the flower. Good thing I had shit loads of money or I would have.
Needless to say I was happy because I had made Haku happy. We fell asleep for an hour or so after making out and I carried her home. Kaasan and Neechan were asleep so I didn't have to explain myself or be embarrassed.
The next day I was refreshed, greeted by Haku's sleeping form next to me (Author's note: They haven't done anything kids shouldn't do yet, so get your minds out of the gutter). She looked so peaceful, so serene, and beautiful. I brushed some silky strands of raven hair from her face before I kissed her. She stirred in response but didn't wake up so I got ready and left. I had an early meeting today with my team.
When I got there I noticed Kakashi was only half an hour late. It seems like being with Rin was very therapeutic for him.
We approached the Hokage's office to receive our mission.
"Hokage-sama?" I asked.
"Yes Naruto?" he asked.
"Can we start C-class missions? We've already completed twenty demeaning... I mean D-class missions," I said.
I heard Sasuke snort and Sakura snicker behind me.
"Ohhh, do you think your team is ready Naruto-kun?" he asked.
Surprisingly Iruka and Kakashi were silent, I thought they'd be lecturing me by now. Oh well I wasn't about to let such a chance slip by.
"Yes I do."
I looked to Kakashi for support but found none. Instead I found him deep in his book, the perv. The Hokage looked unconvinced.
"I hoped it wouldn't come to this," as I stepped forward with my lunch bag.
At least it looked like my lunch bag. I plopped it on the Hokage's desk and stepped back.
The Hokage pulled the bag closer to him and opened the bag. He was blinded by a golden light and slowly his fingers inched towards its contents.
Could it be?
"It is," muttered the Hokage as he grasped the latest limited edition of Icha Icha Paradise.
He looked up at me as if he had a sudden enlightenment, "Hikaru-sama?"
I merely nodded.
"Cough, I suppose your right Hik-I mean Naruto-kun," said the Hokage.
Everyone noticed his slip up but didn't make anything of it. Except for Kakashi who was looking enviously at the new volume.
I didn't expect to meet Tazuna right away but I didn't expect it to take so long. In the mean time we merely did courier missions. They were easier than the D-Class missions but required us to venture outside of the village. Some went as far as Tea Country. They were boring but I could tell my team was a lot happier about them then the jobs in the village. Sakura was thrilled with going outside of the village. She always brought back souvenirs, even for Ino. I could tell they were still good friends despite their rivalry for Sasuke.
Though neither of them would ever admit it.
One day I went up to Sakura and had a talk with her. I realized she would get stronger in the future, but I didn't want to wait that long.
"Sakura," I called out.
"Naruto? Is something wrong?" she asked, turning to face me.
"Why aren't you training?" I asked.
"Well, I have to go get the groceries and I was going to go shopping…"
"No."
"No?" she seemed confused.
"Sakura, we're ninja, I understand you became a ninja to chase Sasuke…"
"No, that's not true," she said while tring to hide a blush.
"Sakura!" I shouted.
She looked shocked.
"It's okay if you want to pursue Sasuke, but don't be mistakened. Out there you have to worry about things other than Sasuke," I said.
"I know," she grumbled.
I was pretty sure Inner Sakura had other things to say.
"No you don't."
She shot me an angry look.
"If you understood you wouldn't have slacked off in your studies."
She looked surprised.
"I've conversed with you enough to know you're smarter than your tests Sakura. I know you didn't want to be disliked by Sasuke by doing better than him in something, but let me tell you, you're wrong."
Her eyes showed her confusion.
"Sasuke may dislike or be jealous of people who do better than him in anything, but he also has respect for him. Do you notice the admiration he has for his brother who he idolizes? He'll notice someone's strength before he'll notice a wallflower. Besides do you really think Sasuke is so shallow as to like someone for their looks alone? Do you want him to be? Are you that kind of a person?"
Sakura looked like she was ready to cry. I could tell she was ashamed of her lack of effort in being a ninja. Unlike Kakashi I wasn't being fierce in my tone so my words stung a little less but I knew it was necessary. Right now she didn't have the resolve to improve herself, it would only occur after Sasuke left. I was determined not to let that happen so I had to do this.
"Then what should I do?" she mumbled between sobs.
"Sakura you definitely have the talent, you just haven't done anything about it yet."
That seemed to calm her down a little.
I took a deep breath, "I don't know if this will suit you but it's the only option I can give you."
That's bullshit she's destined to be a medic-nin according to the manga.
"My Neechan is training medic-nins," I said. "Even though they're meant to be field medics, make no mistake they are trained for any situation on the battlefield including defending themselves. Do you want me to sign you up?"
She pondered it for a couple of minutes.
I don't want to hold them back…
"Think of it this way, you'll have jutsus to show off to Sasuke that might interest him."
Although I hope he doesn't learn them, even if its ijutsu I don't feel comfortable with Sasuke having power.
She looked up in earnest with a bright smile before looking back down.
Am I that shallow that everything has to be for Sasuke-kun? Maybe I should do this for myself?
I wasn't disappointed when I saw her nod in approval.
"You've made a good choice, but Sakura it will be hard work, you do understand?"
"Yes."
I walked away and decided I'd better give Ino a pep talk too. This would be good for both of them. However I'll probably tell Ino to train with her parents more because of her Shintenshin no jutsu. But before I could do anything…
"And here I thought you were an ANBU commader?" I said aloud as I stood against a tree. "A little embarrassing to be caught by a kid."
A shadow descended from the tree and landed next to me.
"A little harsh weren't you?" Itachi asked casually.
"Better she learns in the village then out there," I said.
Itachi nodded in silence.
"I'm sure you weren't following me because of Sakura."
"I'm hurt, you don't think I wanted to just see my friend?"
"You're head of the police force, you hardly have time to go to the bathroom these days without signing something. Actually I wanted to congratulate you, it's quite impressive what you've done with the force."
Itachi had single-handedly rebuilt the force from scratch. Having first hand understood the stress that ANBU put on people he made it a sort of rehab for them. People who had been living on edge could now relax and slowly reintegrate themselves into society.
Then he was also recruiting promising youths and training them. When people became Chuunins they usually felt misguided and confused because they no longer had instructors but worked in teams nonetheless. It was expected that you'd learn from and teach your peers as you worked together. A faulty plan that had potential.
"Don't remind me," Itachi groaned as he grasped his head. "I'm still finishing the paper work for the new budget."
He turned serious, "How's Sasuke?"
"He still has superiority issues but he's becoming more social. I don't feel he's dangerous right now but I'm still hesitant to recommend he be given any training that might inadvertently boost his ego. Right now that's the problem."
Itachi looked thoughtful.
"He also feels like he should be the one to personally exact revenge on Shisui."
"I see," Itachi sighed and sat down on a bench.
I sat down next to him and we spent a while enjoying the scenery, especially the sunset. I found it extremely nice sometimes to spend the moment in silence. Only people like Itachi, Haku, Hinata, Neji, and Shino could appreciate the same feelings.
"I've been giving him lectures about practicing the basics which he's horrible at," he chuckled. "He seems to be accepting it but I can tell a part of him thinks I'm holding him back."
"There's not much we can do, even the psychiatrist is at a loss," I said in an effort to comfort him.
"I only hope he continues to get better," said Itachi. "Even with father gone, his ghost, his memory still haunts Sasuke. It's what's driving Sasuke to do better than everyone else. Without emotions or should I say the right ones, like caring about others, is what makes him dangerous."
I couldn't even begin to imagine the pain Itachi was going through. The pain to acknowledge that his own brother, his flesh and blood, was a danger, a threat to everyone…
Itachi waved me off and I went on my way.
The Next Day…
"Uhh…" I groaned.
I was hiding in an alleyway. Somehow my picture had gotten plastered in the newspaper and it had revealed I was the author of Icha Icha Schooldays.
Thank god no one knows I'm the editor of Icha Icha Paradise.
I was nearby the Hyuuga Estate so I decided to hide there while I evaded my fan girls which seemed to grow exponentially into a mob. I thought I'd be safe in the Hyuuga Estate, I was wrong.
I was looking for Neji, I figured we could shoot the breeze before I met up with my team. He wasn't in his room so I went to the dojo and found Hanamori. She was lying on her stomach with her legs up in the air, swaying back and forth. Upon closer inspection I could see she was reading something. She lazily looked over her shoulder and the moment she saw me her face brightened up. In a flash she was on her knees in front of me and bowing.
I have a bad feeling about this…
"Naruto-sama!" she said gleefully with stars shining in her eyes.
"Uh…" I stumbled back.
"I never knew you were so talented, well I knew that but this just proves you're a genius," she said as she thrust a copy of a familiar book in my face.
At least it's Icha Icha Schooldays…
"Naruto-niichan," called Hanabi from the doorway.
Finally someone normal… Wait what is that? Oh no…
"That's right Naruto-sama," said Hanamori. "Can we have your autograph?"
Hanabi tried to hide her embarrassing blush as she turned her head to the side. It was a little hard with her best friend urging her forward with an arm around her shoulder. Hanabi was also trying to hide the copy of Schooldays that she wanted me to autograph.
I gave in and autographed them both. Hanamori, the hyperactive kid she was, bounced with joy as she hugged her friend. Hanabi, the mannered girl she was, bowed while still trying to hide her blush. When she raised her head both girls smiled at me.
"Ah," said Hanamori, as if she had some sort of epiphany. "I want you to sign my other series too Naruto-niichan."
As she dragged me down the hall I couldn't help but wonder, "What other books?"
"Of course the Icha Icha Paradise series what else," she said.
Someone had just shoved a tazer up my ass because I felt like I had just been harshly electrocuted.
The way she said so casually and gleefully innocently made me wonder if she really read them or knew what they were about.
"Wait your other series?"
"Yep after reading Tou-san's I got my own copies."
Oh my god, Neji is gonna kill me. Well maybe he'll kill Jiraiya first.
"You can't tell Neji, promise?" I said pulling her to a stop.
"Okay," she said before continuing to drag me down the hall.
I tried to find an escape route, "Oh yeah I need to meet with my team, I'll sign them later."
I leapt away before she could protest. I couldn't help but think the way she puffed up her cheeks in a pout was kinda cute. Yeah kids are cute in a different way from adults or teenagers.
I came across the police force and thought it was the safest place ever. I was proven wrong again.
"Neh neh Itachi-kun are you saying you didn't get me anything?" asked Anko as she straddled Itachi on the sparring mat.
I could tell by the way she was gyrating her hips she was talking about Valentine's Day.
"I even made you chocolate," she said.
"Um well, it's Valentine's Day not White Day," he said as an excuse.
(Author's Note: I think Valentine's Day girls give stuff to guys and White Day is the guys give stuff to girls right? Someone tell me if I'm wrong).
"Oh," she whispered huskily in his ear. "Does that mean you have something planned for Anko-chan."
"Um well," Itachi squirmed.
I would have thought he was repulsed by Anko until I saw his blush and bloody nose. Yeah, Uchiha Itachi got it bad.
I decided to save him from his "uncomfortable" situation by coughing. Wrong move. A kunai embedded itself next to my head in the wall. It left a cut on my face. I had clearly forgotten in her weakened and emotional state that Anko was a sadistic bitch that could scare the shit out of anyone.
"Ah, gomen Naru-chan," she said as she scratched her head.
I struggled to regain control of my bodily functions.
That was so fucking scary! I hate it when she calls me that, having Kaasan say it was bad enough but Kaasan had a sort of special privilege because she's Kaasan. Anko just made me uncomfortable when she said that.
Itachi slipped out from under her, I don't how but he did.
"Did you need something Naruto?" he asked still flustered.
I wish I had a camera, seeing Uchiha Itachi in his current state was priceless.
"Haven't you seen the papers Itachi-kun?" asked Anko as she lied on her back and looked at him playfully like a cat.
On the other hand playfully for Anko was like a predator stalking its prey. Itachi was strong but I had a feeling this was one opponent he couldn't out fox.
"Did I miss something?" Itachi asked as he picked up the newspaper.
He found my page quickly because it was the front page, a little hard to miss.
"Oh," he said as he walked over to me and put his hand on my shoulder. "My poor friend, it's time I sent you out into the wild. It's time for you to be a man."
The next thing I knew I was outside.
"Hey open the door you asshole," I yelled before realizing my situation.
I looked around but saw nothing, however I could feel the "horde" closing in.
"Traitor," I mumbled.
"What? And here I was going to let you back in," he said from behind the door.
"Open it up or I'll Rasengan this door you son of bitch!" I hissed.
He opened the door agonizingly slow, "Such language, tsk tsk."
As soon as I was in I barricaded the door. Pretty useless when you think about the multiple ways you could enter the police headquarters but then again only official personnel was let in so I should be okay.
I went into Itachi's office, thinking it was the safest place. Anko followed us in and sat on the edge of Itachi's desk. I decided to relax with them. The mood seemed to have died down because she wasn't jumping Itachi now.
"So Anko, are you joining the police force or something?" I asked.
Itachi looked like he was torn between killing me and agreeing with me.
"That's a great idea Naru-chan," said Anko as she glanced at Itachi.
Knock… knock…
My first instinct was to run, but then I thought about where I was.
"Come in," ordered Itachi.
I saw Tsume, Kiba's sister, come in. It was kind of strange that she didn't have her dogs with her but I figured she left them outside or something. I didn't know that she was part of the police force. I did know she was a Chuunin though.
"Are you busy captain?" she asked.
"Not really," he answered.
I noticed she had a pink paper bag with a yellow bow on it.
"Here," she said as she placed it on the desk.
Itachi looked at it, "Thank you but what is it?"
"Chocolate."
I felt the tension rise in the room before Anko broke it with her antics.
"Ah ha," she laughed. "It's just obligatory chocolate Itachi-kun, don't get your hopes up."
Tsume narrowed her eyes in a glare at Anko before she left.
Oh well, he'll read the note. Can't be too forward he is my captain.
I continued to converse until I noticed a small pile next to his desk that I hadn't noticed when I came in.
"Itachi you're pretty popular," I said as I looked at the labels on the Valentine parcels.
"But mine's is the best right Itachi-kun?" whispered Anko casually in her upbeat tone.
I wasn't gonna save Itachi after he "accidentally" kicked me out. I continued looking through the pile until I recognized one of the names.
"Yuuhi Kurenai?" I asked aloud.
It seems that triggered something in Anko because I felt an immense amount of killer intent behind me. I turned around to see her eyes narrowed and the whites of her eyes like she was insane.
Only in an anime.
She ripped it out of my hands like a wolf and proceded to inspect it as if it had rabies or something. I was fearful for what would happen when Kurenai found out when Itachi swiftly took it off her hands.
"I'll just put this back," he said as he dropped it back into the pile.
I saw the clock and recognized it as time to leave when I noticed how clean the office was. I was impressed until I noticed how clean the walls looked, like they were new. I touched the wall and couldn't find any dust or dirt. I wondered why so I knocked it a couple of times and it sounded hollow. I didn't turn around so I didn't see Anko's interested gaze or Itachi's paling face.
As if in slow motion I pulled back my arm as Itachi jumped over the desk. As if someone had pushed the slow button Itachi's voice came out garbled.
"Nooooo," he cried/groaned.
But it was too late, I had already fired my fist and it slammed into the wall, which collapsed along with the other walls. That wasn't shocking, what was shocking was the contents. Every issue of Icha Icha Paradise and Schooldays were lined up against the walls, on top of each other.
I slowly turned to look at Itachi and shook my head.
"I've lost respect for you Itachi," I said jokingly.
He played along with his head down. That is until Anko put him in a headlock kind of hug.
"Itachi-kun," she squealed before lowering her voice seductively. "I didn't know you liked the same books."
I saw Itachi reach out for me and about to voice my name before I vanished out the door.
Hehe… Serves him right.
Hokage's Office…
I arrived at the Hokage's office safely.
Thank god!
I saw Sakura and Sasuke shooting me looks of sympathy. I also saw the hidden book behind Sakura.
"What's our mission today Hokage-sama," I asked.
He took a few puffs before answering, "I'm very impressed with how professionally your team has handled these missions Naruto."
Sasuke snorted in satisfaction. Sakura beamed with happiness. Kakashi was buried in his book. I was too tired to react.
"Tired from your morning exercise Naruto?" asked Kakashi.
The Hokage laughed and I swore to God that I'd kill Kakashi. I could see the look in his eye.
You ratted me out you bastard!
Kakashi ignored the murderous look in my eye.
I'll get you back… wait a sec I know the perfect revenge plan but I'll have to wait until we get back from this mission.
"I've decided to let you do an escort mission to Wave Country."
My ears perked up at this.
"Is this a C-Class mission Hokage-sama?" asked Sakura.
"It is indeed Sakura."
I could tell Sakura and Sasuke were eager to prove themselves. I was ready to kick Zabuza's ass. He should be easy prey since Haku's not around to help him.
"Who are we escorting?" asked Sasuke.
"I'll introduce the client now. Come in please," commanded the old man.
I turned around and expected to see Tazuna. I wasn't disappointed. He was the same sake-guzzling old man I remembered from the anime.
"These shrimps are gonna protect me?" he asked, unimpressed.
"Kakashi-sensei?" I asked.
"Yes Naruto?"
"Can I kill him?" I asked rather casually.
Tazuna choked on his sake and looked at me, slightly afraid.
I guess that got his attention.
"No, what's the point when we're supposed to be protecting him Naruto?"
"Fine, can I kick his ass?" I repeated.
"No."
"Just one punch."
"Naruto," groaned Kakashi.
I decided that was enough, but I let a stray kunai pin Tazuna's straw hat to the wall.
Kakashi rolled his eyes, "I'm a Jounin Tazuna-san, and as you can see they're more than enough to protect you from bandits."
"Well as long as they get me back safely," he grumbled as he struggled to regain his composure.
"Meet at the West Gate in an hour."
I went home to get ready. When I got there I was surprised to see Haku home.
"Where are you going this time?"
"Wave Country."
"Can I go with you? I'd like to pay my respects to my parents."
I immediately stopped what I was doing. I was worried about Haku, was she really over her parents' deaths? I walked over and gave her a hug.
"It's okay Naruto-kun."
We stayed there for a few moments, "Yeah I guess you can come. It'd be nice to have a Chuunin, not to mention my girlfriend along for a month."
"Hmmm…" she mumbled between kisses. "If we're leaving for a month then we should have your cake now."
"Cake?"
Then lo and behold I saw it. The marvelous cake. The one I can only associate with a boston chocolate cream cake. Somehow calling it that didn't do it justice. It had white chiffon light layers of bread with chocolate moose in between. The whole cake was coated in a thin layer of moose with whip cream, cream puffs, and cherries on top. If it doesn't sound appetizing imagine your best birthday cake ever times a thousand. Coupled with the fact your eating it with someone special to you makes it all the more better.
God I love this girl…
At the West Gate…
"Oh, so Haku-chan wants to come along?" asked Kakashi.
"Geez another brat?" said Tazuna.
I actually did genuinely want to kill him then and there. Earlier was a joke but insulting my girlfriend, any guy would want to kill that person. Haku must have sensed it because she touched my arm gently.
"Appearances may be deceiving Tazuna-san," said Kakashi with a smile under his mask. "Haku-chan is a talented Chuunin as well as a skilled medic-nin, her participation would be invaluable to any mission."
Maybe I won't exact revenge on Kakashi for his little stunt earlier… Who am I kidding I'll burn him to the ground! You mess with the best you die like the rest! (Author's Notes: People will recognize this phrase from Hackers, a movie, go see it)
"Everyone ready?" he asked, finding our nods. "Let's go."
Several Hours Later…
I overheard Sakura asking about ninjas and Kakashi explaining them. I already knew that Wave had none and Kakashi went into lecture mode. He allowed me to zone him out because he had given it to me years ago, several times.
I also remembered this was when the Demon Brothers attacked in the anime. I didn't see any puddles so I prepared myself.
"Why are you eating a sandwich?" asked Sasuke.
"I can't fight on an empty stomach," I replied. "And no I don't have any more, Haku might but then you'd have to brave the obstacle you know as Sakura."
Sasuke cringed. Sakura and Haku were on either side of Tazuna while Kakashi brought up the rear guard. Sasuke and I were at point. My comment to Sasuke was a joke, Sakura had really been taking her training seriously, so had Ino.
I continued to savor my chicken sandwich. It was like having a taste of KFC. I know every bad thing that's been said about fast food, but with the Kyuubi inside me I could have been drinking pesticide and stayed healthy. Luckily such was not the case because Haku had prepared it. As always her cooking was exemplary but I still found the need to have a barbeque with the guys once in awhile.
In fact I think I should have one when I get back.
I had subconsciously begun to enjoy it so much that I almost missed the signs. When I finished it I wrapped up the foil and tossed it into a puddle.
"Naruto," said Sakura. "You shouldn't litter like that!"
"Whatever," I said.
Shanaro, don't ignore me you little twerp! I don't care if you're rookie of the year I'll kick your ass. (Author's Notes: Inner Sakura emerges)
I'm glad she didn't pick it up. I'm glad no one but Kakashi and Haku noticed because I made a hand seal and my trash blew up.
BOOM!
Tazuna, Sakura, and Sasuke all turned towards the sound of the explosion. I was impressed with Sasuke because he got into a battle stance immediately. The Demon Brothers laid huddled on the ground in pain and dazed.
"Ohh man."
"Gawd that hurts."
They both looked up to see the sources of the shadows that loomed over them.
"Shit," they said together.
A few minutes later they woke up, bloody and bruised, and tied against a tree.
"So why were you guys after the old man?" I asked.
"I don't have tell you why," said the first.
"Yeah, we're not idiots," said the second.
"Yes you are idiots you got noticed and tricked by me a Genin, plus you answered my true question," I said.
Both of their eyes widened.
"How did you know?"
"On such a sunny day there isn't going to be such a large puddle of water. Also if by chance there was water why weren't there other puddles?"
"Very nicely done Naruto," said Kakashi as he glanced at Tazuna. "Now we know they were after Tazuna, who can probably tell us why."
"What should we do with them Kakashi-sensei?" asked Sakura.
She was still a little shaken and disappointed with herself. I gave her a reassuring grip on her shoulder and Haku gave her a smile. She seemed to understand the unsaid message.
Thank you Naruto, Haku-sempai.
"We can just kill them," said Sasuke.
His little comment brought us unceremoniously out of our little moment we were having. Sakura seemed a little taken back and I could tell a little bit of her idolized image of Sasuke had cracked. She seemed to get over it quickly but the seeds of doubt had been planted.
"That's a little extreme isn't it Sasuke-kun?" she asked.
Sasuke gave her an annoyed look, "We can't have them coming after us later on, that would be too dangerous, right Kakashi-sensei?"
I was somewhat relieved he didn't seem completely serious about killing them, but the fact that the idea came so easily to him still disturbed me.
"That's true," Kakashi answered. "However we shouldn't kill indiscriminately but we have to realize that it is necessary."
"Why don't we just leave a message for Konoha's carrier pigeon and let ANBU take care of it?" I asked.
"That's a good idea Naruto," said Kakashi as he wrote up a note for ANBU.
Still it's impressive that Naruto was able to notice and come up with a plan to neutralize the threat it such a short time span.
Haku had used her senbon to hit pressure points on their bodies and knock them out indefinitely until it was removed. It was also coated with a nerve paralysis serum.
We continued on our way. We all had questions for Tazuna but we waited until the boat ride to voice any of them.
"Why were they after you Tazuna-san?" asked Kakashi.
"What do you mean?"
"When Naruto asked why they were after you they said they wouldn't tell us why. In other words they forgot to deny targeting you. A slip up, but mostly due to Naruto's phrasing of the question."
"I guess I'll have to tell you guys."
He seemed to be struggling to find the right words.
"The Wave Country is super poor right now, it's not a pretty situation. I'm building a bridge right now to change that."
"How will a bridge change things?" asked Sakura.
"Wave Country is geographically isolated and before the economy collapsed it was fine but now they have no way to recover. A bridge will open up trade routes," I answered casually.
I received a few looks from my fellow team members.
"How do you know so much Naruto?" asked Sasuke.
"I once visited Wave Country years ago and I could see that the economy was beginning to decline. It wasn't as bad as it was now but I found out about the economy collapsing a year ago because it was pretty big news and was in the papers. Lots of businessmen lost their investments and their companies were swallowed up by Gatou."
"Gatou?" asked Sakura.
"Yes Gatou is a multi-billionaire Sakura-san," answered Haku. "He is one of the richest men in Japan."
"He's also involved in underground dealings," said Tazuna. "He uses Wave Country as his base of operations and employs henchmen to ensure his illegal dealings go unnoticed."
"I don't understand why he would target you though," said Sakura.
"It's because the trade routes will open up that Gatou will lose out on his monopoly in Wave Country. Plus international trade may attract outside authorities. Gatou may have the Wave Country's Daimyo in his pocket but not the world."
"But why did you hire only Genins wouldn't this be an A-Class mission Kakashi-sensei?" Sakura pointed out.
"Yes it would be Sakura," answered Kakashi. "I have a feeling this has something to do with the country's economy."
"Yeah," said Tazuna as he took a swing of sake. "Like I said the Wave Country is poor, even the daimyo takes pay offs from Gatou probably. I didn't have money for a high class mission status."
"We're not prepared for this Kakashi-sensei," said Sakura.
"I know Sakura," said Kakashi. "We should turn back right now, Gatou is known for hiring S-Class criminals from time to time."
That got everyone's attention except mine.
All we have to do is take out Zabuza and that's it.
"I understand," said Tazuna.
Here comes the guilt trip. Drum roll please…
"You guys can leave me as soon as we reach the shore. If I die it's none of your concern. Only my cute eight year old grandson will cry helplessly! And my daughter will just hold a grudge against Konoha ninja and live a sad and lonely life. My family will be poor and in shambles, but hey, none of it's your fault."
I heard him ramble on a little longer but didn't pay any attention I was looking at the mist rolling in.
"The mist is rolling in," I said.
"We're in Wave Country it's not unusual," said Tazuna.
"Naruto?" asked Kakashi.
I hadn't really been paying attention to him, I was listening for Zabuza.
"Yes?"
"I just asked everyone what we should do, what do you think?"
I looked at Tazuna in a lazy and uncaring manner.
"I still say you should have let me kill him at the Hokage's office," I said.
Tazuna looked a little ticked off.
"But since we've come so far we can't turn back can we?"
Everyone else was feeling the effects of the guilt trip, it was written on their faces. Tazuna had a smug look that I wanted to wipe off his face. Don't get me wrong, I fully intended to save this guy but being here and now with him I could tell why Naruto wanted to kill him. Tazuna in the anime was a saint compared to the real thing. I guess that's a drawback from experiencing it first person.
When we got to land the mist seemed to even out. We could even see the sun again. While we were walking down the dry path I heard something and did something very Naruto… I threw a kunai at it as a subconscious act.
"Naruto what's wrong?" asked an alarmed Sakura.
I was a little surprised at myself so I went over to check the bushes. It was what I thought, a snowshoe rabbit.
Zabuza must be nearby.
"Oh my god, I'm so sorry little rabbit," I said aloud, feigning sadness. "Look Kakashi-sensei I almost killed a snowshoe rabbit."
Kakashi picked up immediately, and so did Haku.
A snowshoe rabbit changes according to the seasons. White is for winter and it's clearly out of season. Which means someone had been keeping this rabbit in a cage to use for Kawarimi.
"It's okay Naruto-kun," said Haku. "Usagi-chan will have company now."
"You think she'll like him?" I asked, genuinely interested.
Haku also thought genuinely and said, "I hope so. She gets lonely when we're not home."
Sakura seemed to snap to attention.
Haku-sempai and Naruto live together! I didn't know that. That's so Kawaii! They belong together. I wonder what if Sasuke-kun and I… No we're on a mission I have to be more professional.
Kakashi was still being lazy for appearances sake but his hands were out of his pockets.
"Hey you two let's get going," he said. "I want to get to Tazuna's before dark."
Haku placed the now affectionately named, "Shiro-chan" in her back pack, his head was sticking out of the side.
We took a few more steps before the mist got slightly thicker and Kakashi shouted.
"Everyone get down now!"
I dove into the bushes while everyone else hit the ground on their own. I felt the huge blade fly over our heads but I didn't feel it coming.
Whoa! I was totally caught off guard. Even though I knew it would happen I couldn't feel it. I guess this is the difference between a Genin and Jounin. Zabuza is definitely a skilled opponent.
I gulped a little before calming down. If I played things safely they would all turn out the same way.
I hope…
"This will be easy," I said as I emerged from the bushes with a kunai drawn.
Zabuza was standing on top of his huge sword with his back turned to us.
Smug son of a bitch, would it hurt to put on a shirt, just looking at this guy makes the chilly weather freezing.
Mist had started to roll in but it wasn't enough to make me think it was from Zabuza's jutsus.
"Oh, Sharingan Kakashi, I read about you when I was in the Hidden Mist's ANBU," he said.
"Momochi Zabuza," said Kakashi, deadly serious.
"So you've heard of me, I'm quite honored," he replied.
Zabuza narrowed his eyes at us for a moment.
Where have I seen them before? They seem familiar.
Zabuza turned his attention back towards Kakashi. The two continued to exchange "pleasantries." I didn't really care. That's not exactly true, it was when the mist rolled in from Zabuza that I stopped listening.
"Kirigakure no jutsu," he said from his position on the lake.
The mist completely obscured our vision.
"Everyone protect Tazuna, this guy's on a whole different level. Only I can handle him," said Kakashi.
We all listened and obeyed his words because Kakashi was rarely this serious. Zabuza continued to taunt us from wherever he was hiding in the mist. He was pointing out our vital areas and trying to decide how he would kill us.
I mentally rolled my eyes, I couldn't afford to do it physically because if I did, Zabuza really would kill me.
A burst of chakra from Kakashi brought our attention to him.
"Don't worry Sasuke, I won't let my comrades die."
I noticed for the first time that Sasuke was very tense. I wasn't as scared but I definitely felt the tension in the air. It was completely different from Gashir or Aoi. It was then that I realized Kakashi was right. Zabuza was on a whole different level from the guys I had fought in the past. I gulped.
"Weak, after all you're still only Genins," said Zabuza as he appeared behind me.
I shuddered, I hadn't even felt him move, not to mention the tight formation we set up that he penetrated so easily.
I turned on my Raijin no Ken and jumped back as I used my sword as a shield. I saw the others jump away as well.
Just in time to see Kakashi stab him with a kunai in his stomach. But instead of blood pouring out I saw water.
Mizu Bunshin?
"Kakashi-sensei, behind you!" yelled Sakura.
I witness Kakashi getting sliced in half by Zabuza's sword. Zabuza looked smug until he saw Kakashi burst into water.
"Mizu Bunshin!"
"That's it," said Kakashi as he pressed his kunai to Zabuza's throat. "It's over."
"You're naïve Kakashi."
"What?"
Suddenly the Zabuza in front of Kakashi burst into water and Kakashi ducked. He narrowly evaded a slash from Zabuza. Zabuza on the other hand continue to spin, struck his blade in the ground and used his momentum to gather force and used his handle as a stand for his kick. It sent Kakashi sailing. Seeing it all happen up close allowed me to analyze the situation. Zabuza was strong in taijutsu and fast too, even with that huge blade.
He chased after Kakashi and barely stopped in front of the makibishi. Zabuza jumped into the water.
Now I need to get the Fuuma Shuriken ready… wait what's Zabusza doing?
Sure enough Zabuza trapped Kakashi in his water prison.
"Why is the water so heavy?"
"I've got you now."
"Shit!"
"Suirou no jutsu!" said the Mizu Bunshin that trapped Kakashi.
That's right, right before Kakashi was trapped Zabuza conjured up a Mizu Bunshin to take his place in holding Kakashi. Which meant the real Zabuza was in front of us, free to take us on.
"Everyone run away, protect Tazuna!" yelled Kakashi.
Sasuke ran forward with his kunai and shuriken.
Are you joking Kakashi? We can't run now that option disappeared as soon as you were caught! If we run he'll catch up to us and kill us eventually.
Sasuke was slammed into the ground forcefully by Zabuza. He then proceeded to step on Sasuke, causing him to cough up blood.
"Naruto! What are you doing? Aren't you going to help Sasuke-kun?" cried Sakura.
I didn't move.
"Looks like he's filled with fear, you guys are only Genin. You're only insects compared to me."
He threw Sasuke's body past me.
"I won't let it end so quickly I need to have some fun once in a while."
"Ahh!" screamed Haku as she was tossed in the air.
"Haku!" I cried.
I noticed another Mizu Bunshin run past me. Haku's body slammed into the water. The Mizu Bunshin grabbed her and put a kunai at her throat.
"Shit shit shit!" I said the words were grinded between my teeth.
"I remember you kid," said Zabuza. "Yeah I almost forgot..."
He began to undo some of his bandages, enough to show us his scar that ran from above his right eye down to his bottom left cheek.
"about the brat who scarred me."
His Mizu Bunshin roughly grabbed Haku's delicate chin.
"And about this girl too. It's too bad she couldn't become my tool, but I found a better replacement."
WHAT?
Zabuza appeared right in front of me.
He did all this so he could personally extract revenge against me for his scar?
"Don't bother crying kid, just die!"
"Naruto!" cried Sakura.
"Ahhh!" I shouted as his blade cut into me.
BOOM!
Zabuza was blown back by the explosion.
What the hell just happened to me?
The explosion was so great that he was pushed out onto the lake water, behind his clones. After regaining his footing he struggled in his head to figure out what just happened.
He… exploded?
He looked at his captives to make sure they were there. He was stunned to see Haku perform one handed seals.
"Hijutsu: Sensatsu Suishou!" she yelled.
Zabuza was surprised, not at her jutsu but where her jutsu was aimed. Dozens of water needles were pointed at her and the Mizu Bunshin holding her.
"What are you doing? You'll get killed by your own jutsu," he said.
Haku merely smirked at him, a beautiful but deadly smirk.
Could it be?
The needles riddled both Haku and the Mizu Bunshin, and their bodies both fell and… turned into water!
Mizu Bunshin?
"Suikodan no Jutsu!" yelled a female voice.
It was clearly Haku but where was it coming from? Her voice seemed to echo throughout the whole clearing.
Zabuza raised his blade up in time to block the blast of water but it wasn't enough. Haku's jutsu was too strong and ended up breaking through his guard and pushing him further away. I had jumped out of a nearby tree. As he flew back he saw me descend upon his remaining clone with my Raijin no Ken. I slashed the clone across its back and freed Kakashi.
I looked up at Zabuza and said, quite smugly, "You're right, I'm only a Genin, but in the real world titles don't mean too much, now do they, Scarface?"
Zabuza's POV…
What the hell just happened?
"Good job Naruto, Haku," said Kakashi. "Your plan was perfect. You've really grown you two."
"What do you mean?" I asked.
How could I have been out smarted by mere children?
"When Naruto first dove into the bushes he did so to hide himself and create a Kage Bunshin! He sent that out instead of himself!"
"Kage Bunshin?"
Then from the beginning I was facing his clone while the real one went around me?
"Yes, that's what exploded in your face. That's the real reason why Naruto didn't engage you or try and save Sasuke. If he had suffered any damage and disappeared without you in position then his entire plan with Haku would be ruined."
I could only stare wide eyed, unable to believe what I was hearing.
"The girl… then, she…"
"That's right, Haku allowed your clone to kick her into the water to hide herself. While she was underwater she quickly created a Mizu Bunshin to replace herself, which your clone picked up."
"With Haku in position she used Suikodan to get you away from me and Naruto who had hidden himself while getting into position. In order to free me!"
Dammit I've been outsmarted by this brat again!
"I have to warn you Zabuza," said Kakashi.
I stared fearfully into his Sharingan eye.
"I don't fall for the same jutsu twice."
End Zabuza's POV…
Back to General POV/Naruto's POV…
Sakura stood there astonished.
Naruto thought that far ahead? I knew he was strong because he was rookie of the year but is there really such a gap among the three of us?
She then looked down in shame for a moment.
I thought he was a wimp when he didn't help Sasuke when he had a plan all along, but look at me. I didn't do anything but cry. I need to be stronger. I need to try harder.
With this new resolve she tightened her grip around her kunai as she stood in front of Tazuna. She didn't even go to pamper Sasuke as he struggled to get up from having the wind knocked out of him.
How could Naruto think up such a plan in such a short time. Plus Haku seems like she was in on it but I didn't see them talk about it… Could it be that they acted instinctively?
I was impressed with Sakura's resolve. At first I had disappointed when she jumped to conclusions and let her guard down when Sasuke got hurt and I didn't help him. Still this was an extreme situation and I was proud that she could see the big picture now. Tazuna's life was on the line and it was our mission to protect him.
Sakura will be okay now, I have a feeling she'll be training more now, who knows how valuable she'll be in the Chuunin Exam?
I was comforted by the fact it was all Kakashi's turn right now. Make no mistake I had no illusions about my power. I was a talented Genin but that was only because of my hard work. In a straight out fight I may be able to take on a Chuunin, possibly. A Jounin was an entirely different story without tactics I would be toast. Not to mention my chakra alone wasn't near theirs. Against Gashir, tactics were invaluable and against Aoi Kyuubi's chakra was necessary. Even if I did summon it of my own accord it still wasn't my chakra.
Scarface? Haha…
What?
You really wanna rub it in his face don't you?
Hmph…
Haha!
I noticed Kakashi had copied Zabuza's Suiryuudan no jutsu. Seeing the water dragons clash against one another was an awesome spectale. Haku was by my side and grabbed my arm. I could tell that she was just as amazed. It was so beautiful and terrifying at the same time. Underneath the two beasts Kakashi and Zabuza clashed, kunai against sword.
When the water dissipated they leapt away. Kakashi continued to taunt Zabuza and pretend as if the Sharingan could read his mind as well as the future.
"Suiton…" said Kakashi.
Zabuza had paused in his jutsu and was surprised when Kakashi carried on the hand seals without him.
"Daubakufu no jutsu!" said Kakashi.
A halo of water appeared before turning into a tunnel of water that barreled towards Zabuza.
"Whoa!" I was awed.
I had seen it in the anime but the Daibakufu no jutsu was tearing up the land, earth, and trees left and right. It was as if they didn't even slow it down. Kakashi pinned Zabuza to the tree with kunai and I was relieved that it was over.
Swoosh…
"Arghhh…" Zabuza let out a blood curdling scream.
I noticed why, senbon were buried in his neck.
No fucking way!
I looked up and sure enough I saw a hunter-nin. It was older than us, older than Haku, a full adult.
Kit she's strong, as strong as that Zabuza!
I took Kyuubi's word for it. Even without his body, Kyuubi's chakra sense was better than any living human's on the planet. Almost no one could hide from his chakra sense and he could tell how great a person's chakra was even if they tried to hide it. He could also see their entire amount, something I didn't know was possible. Dojutsu like the Sharingan and Byakugan could see chakra in a person's body but not how much you had in total.
Speaking of Dojutsu I had been practicing one with Kyuubi, I hadn't tried it out yet because I hadn't perfected it but I turned it on anyways. It was barely noticeable unless you were looking for the change in my eyes. My pupils merely became slits, easily hidden by the depths of my blue eyes.
The part of the Dojutsu that I had mastered allowed me to see chakra in a way differently from the Sharingan or Byakugan. I couldn't copy or see 360 degrees but I saw chakra more detailed and in depth. I could also see a fair distance and track chakra through objects. Although it wasn't x-ray vision like the Byakugan. Now I could see her chakra, I noticed the katana on her hip looked strange. Usually chakra only came from living people, sometimes from objects like explosive notes or other tools. However the chakra around her sword looked contained and almost alive.
Hmm, it may be like that Shark guy, Kisame's sword, the Samehada.
Like I said before, Kyuubi knew all my memories since he was a part of me. He knew all about what would happen at least, what I knew.
What do you mean?
I've encountered them before. After a high amount of refining humans made Shinken (living blades) or Seiken (sacred blades). Shinken were hard to master but could be made for anyone while Seiken could only be mastered by a few chosen and were harder to make. The blades possessed their own mystical power unique to themselves, individually.
Whoa…
Nowadays only the Sages or heavenly beings have such knowledge but there seems to be some humans who still practice it.
Imagining the power these blades had, sent shivers down my spine when I thought about who could have it. People like Akatsuki or Orochimaru.
Speaking of Orochimaru.
He got Kusanagi from Manda. It was Manda's demonic treasure.
"I see that you're a Mist Hunter-Nin," said Kakashi.
I took a look at Kakashi and saw that he was nearly depleted of chakra.
"Yes, I've been tracking Zabuza for some time now," she said.
She disappeared and reappeared next to Zabuza, "I'll be taking the body so I can dispose of it. This body has many secrets."
Kakashi made no move to interfere while I was having a mental battle.
Should I take her now?
I don't know. She's as strong as Zabuza, we should be able to take her, together. However we might get your friends wrapped up into our battle and Kakashi is not an option.
I mentally nodded and watched her disappear with Zabuza's "corpse."
Kit, I feel eyes on us and I don't mean friendlies…
I turned around to survey the forest and I found my target. I couldn't see the figure's face, only its chakra. Its chakra was strong as well and somewhat unique like Haku's.
A bloodline?
Perhaps.
Shit.
"Alright let's go now," said Kakashi.
"Come on you guys can rest at my house," said Tazuna, his eyes resting on my back.
Shrimp's stonger than he looks, smarter too.
I heard Kakashi fall to the ground and Sakura scream.
"Kakashi-sensei!'
I walked over and looked over his condition. I gave a nod to Haku and she agreed with me. Kakashi would be fine.
"Sakura, Kakashi-sensei's okay," I said calmly.
She looked up at me.
"This is an excellent time to test how well you've been training," I said.
She looked at me confused.
"Pop-quiz, Kakashi-sensei's not dying, what is his condition?"
She looked over his body for a few moments. She took his pulse and opened his closed pupils to take a look at them.
"Chakra-depletion, it occurs when a person has exhausted nearly all of their chakra, not including the minimal amount of chakra that the organs require to keep the body alive."
I was proud of her text book answer and created a few clones to carry Kakashi off. Surprisingly enough, Kage Bunshin lasted quite a long time if they weren't attacked. I guess that's why my chakra was divided evenly among them.
I turned to look at our silent observer. I watched as it jumped away. As I watched it move away I could only ascertain one thing from the way it moved. It didn't move like any human I had ever met.
A chilling breeze glanced the back of my neck before I walked away with my team, towards Tazuna's house.
Tsuzuku…
Author's Notes: Next time on A New Nindo, Haku and I pay respects to her parents when we get a surprise visitor. A battle on the bridge ensues as I am separated from my team and encounter Zabuza's new tool. Haku engages an enemy of her own, the fearsome hunter-nin.
Haku: This sword is…
What is the mysterious power hidden in the sword?
Naruto: My Shadow Skill (Eigi) has no effect?
Who is the fearsome enemy I must face?
Find out in Chapter 12: Bloody Memories and Showdown on the Bridge.
Important Note: I said the unknown character didn't move like any human I had ever met, this does not mean it's a monster. It is a human.
I will update this weekend, maybe. I have a lot of essays to write. Remember I feed off of your reviews, it feeds the creative engine I affectionately know as my brain.
