Hello, and welcome to the next chapter!
Xionremind22; Yeah, I'm thinking about them.
ShadowUzumaki55; They did yeah, they went above and beyond. Ryouta held his own, even Karin did~ Haku went through quite a few things yeah. Anko did her best, and managed to fight quite well. It is definitely going to be a tough fight yeah.
MDM11; Yeah, they could be. That would be pretty cool if they trained with him. They'd be good choices. Those bring brought back would make sense considering what they did during their lives. He could become a commander. They'd be fun stories to do, thanks for all of the suggestions!
lord web of life of destiny; Thanks! Yeah, I thought that they'd be good choices to expand upon, since as you said, they weren't much in the main series. He'll eventually get eyes like that~
LezarioFanficio; Yeah, I answer if I can.
Silver crow; Thanks! Yeah, they had a good fight. Ameyuri could do. We'll see what happens with Mei. Yeah, seems Zabuza was like that. Karin did her best yeah. Zabuza and Ryouta had some fun interactions. Anko showed her stuff. Yeah, Zabuza and Ryouta had a good fight. He just used the transformation technique, shows his skills to do that and use Genjutsu quickly. Haku snapped back quickly, and showed her strength with Suigetsu. He didn't fully undo it, more like disrupt it enough so some of the curse marks power leaked through. Zabuza does care yeah, even if he doesn't want to admit it. Mei will show her stuff. Ryouta and Kushimaru might have a confrontation. Those would be cool outfits for those characters. He's still trying to be a Hero so it would have to be fight rather than kill. His life, to a limited degree, could control the ground, the air, and other things. The only things resistant to Death were what you said. A good fair people would still want that unjustly, it's all apart of his story after all. Hawks and Kenji would have a unique dynamic. It depends on the story if they'd have met or not. Midnight's fate might change in a MHA story. We'll have to wait and see what comes of these prison breaks before I do anything with it. Maybe for Cana's sake. I can't say about Lisanna. I'm sure Irene would be happy about that. Brain was like that huh, maybe Kazu could. Could be for Acnologia. Those are some cool names. Thanks for the suggestions!
the5reds; I will be yeah.
Guest 1; Thanks very much! Ryouta did yeah, and I thought it could come into play. Their benefactor shall be revealed in time, it could be surprising who it is. Yeah, thanks for the votes! Thanks for the harem suggestions!
Guest 2; That sounds like a pretty cool story, thanks for the suggestions!
Skull Flame; They are yeah~
danielhaywoodsnow; Thanks! I'm glad you're enjoying it, I always liked when the fights used a mixture of power and technique, it always made it more interesting to me to. He could use some Lightning Release. Haku and Karin doing that would be good. Mei will be making some kind of appearance here~
Andrew123456; I'd have a few things being different.
Guest 3; They'd be good choice~
Brainstorm Sorcerer; Thanks very much! That's Karin and Suigetsu for you~ Zabuza was quite fixated on him yeah. Yeah, he added the Water Dragon to his skill set thanks to Zabuza. I could see him travelling inside of it yeah, that would be cool. It is yeah, Ryouta's strengths are that. Haha, I could see Zabuza saying that. They did yeah with Kabutowari. It's going to be quite the ride in the arc. The curse mark will be brought up in this chapter. A fight between Anko and Zabuza would be interesting. She'll eventually reveal about the curse mark. A fight where he's truly pushed to breaking point shall come in future arcs, but he'll still be pushed a good bit here. Tobi is, he's just keeping to the shadows right now. Yeah, that's the stance he's taken after everything that happened, thanks to the words of Shisui and Izumi even Itachi in a way. That would be cool if he fused them together. It is a pretty cool idea for a Curse Mark, and it sounds cool. I can't reveal about that right now with Zabuza. Who's behind them shall be revealed in the future. Yeah, Tuesday's can be difficult huh~? I hope it goes well for you. Thanks!
War Sage; Thanks! I'm glad you liked it~ Yeah, Ryouta showed his stuff. Karin held her own. Itachi is shown more, but Shisui did also have some affinity with crows. Either adopted or the child between her and Ryouta, not fully decided yet. I'd say they'd have to live there yeah. Yeah, Ryouta showed the usage of exploding clones. Ryouta will have a Madara like moment like that in the future, can't spoil when that will be. I do quite like Azula, so one day it would be fun to do a story with her. Thanks for the suggestions!
Guest 4; Thanks very much! Yeah, being cunning is a good way for fights to have some flare to them. That's Suigetsu and Karin for you~ Glad you liked seeing what Ryou can do~ Haku did yeah, she's going to try her best. Mangetsu was yeah, I thought it would add some cool stuff for him. Yeah, I'm sure Satsuki wouldn't want to miss anything like that. Thanks for the votes, and harem suggestions!
Guest 5; Thanks for the vote!
Guest 6; Thank you for the votes!
Guest 7; The winner shall be shown next week.
Guest 8; Thanks for the votes!
Guest 9; Thanks very much! Hehe, he did yeah~ If he really wanted to, then he could ride the fire dragon like that. Thanks for the vote! I wont be. Tsunami and Ryouta will have some nice conversations.
Guest 10; Thanks very much! Glad you enjoyed the fights! He's been training really hard, and like Shisui is very good at using Genjutsu with his Sharingan. Any of those would be pretty cool for Ryouta to use with Susanoo. Thanks for the votes!
Guest X; Thanks for the votes! Something's would change, something's wouldn't change as I do like a good deal of stuff from it, but there are something's I'd change now with updated information we have gotten from the series.
guest no guest; I'm not sure what day just yet.
OceanMaster32; They'll have some assistance with that~ Yeah, they'd be cool. Thanks for the votes!
Acehardlight; He might see it in some form. I can't reveal Zabuza's fate just yet~ Thanks for the votes!
123 and 7; Thanks for the votes!
Guest 12; Thanks for the votes! Some time next week, not sure which day yet.
Guest 13; I will be.
123; Thanks for the vote!
Well, with those lovely reviews out of the way, it's time to start the chapter!
Land of Waves Arrival!
Moving away from the battlefield, Ryouta kept his eyes on Anko, seeing the pain that was on her face. But she was keeping it from the others, and he wondered why, but he didn't voice his thoughts, he was going to wait until a later time.
They all saw the situation the Land of Wave was in.
It was clear that they were poor.
Karin and Anko looked between the different people as they walked by, seeing them looking hungry.
Haku felt sorry for them, Ryouta did also.
"There, that's my house."
Tazuna said, pointing to a house that seemed to be removed from the others around.
"Lets go inside."
Anko added, so they all walked towards the house.
Tazuna went in first, and called out "Tsunami, are you here?" while looking around.
Ryouta saw the house wasn't that big, he noticed there was a small kitchen, a table and chairs, there was also a picture that was hanging up on the back cupboard of a man with Tazuna, a blue haired woman, and a young boy.
Just as he was admiring it, Anko saw the blue haired woman come down the stairs.
"Father, you've finally arrived, I'm so relieved..." As she began, her eyes shifted to the others and looked on with genuine curiosity. "These people are…"
"Ninja, from Konoha." Tazuna clarified. "They saved my life, risking themselves. Don't let appearances fool you Tsunami, these Ninja managed to fight off three strong opponents. If it wasn't for them, I'd be dead right now."
Tsunami looked between each of the Ninja.
She adopted a soft smile as she turned back to her Father.
"I see, I'm glad you're okay Dad." Her eyes went to the Ninja. "Thank you for saving my Father." Each Ninja waved their hand. "You all must be tired. Please sit down and relax, while I make us all a meal."
"Thank you for the hospitality." Anko bowed, before looking to Tazuna who flinched. "Alright, sit down Tazuna, tell us what's going on."
Tazuna agreed, and sat down.
Anko, together with her team sat down, and listened quietly to what had been said.
"I, as you can see, lied about the mission I gave to the village."
"But why? Is it about the fee?"
Karin asked.
Tazuna bowed his head low, showing some remorse for what happened before.
"That's part of the reason. You've seen the state of our country. We can't afford a mission of this caliber. The reason for that, is a man named Gato. He has taken over this country, reducing us to poverty so he can continue his illegal import, and export business."
Haku raised an eyebrow.
"I've never heard of him Sensei, who is he?"
Anko thought about it for a few moments, before it came to her.
"He's a man that runs the shipping company called The Gato Company, and from what I've heard, he has had all sorts of very questionable dealings in the past, he's quite bad news. So, he's using the Land of Waves to conduct his illegal activity. If that is the same Gato that I had heard about. Makes sense, it's out of the way, and it has no Ninja to rebel against him, so he can do what he wants to these people. And because they are poor, they can't hire Ninja of sufficient level to come and handle the situation."
What she said made sense to Ryouta's mind.
Tazuna inclined his neck in agreement.
"You understand why I lied now. We don't have the funds to pay for us to get Gato away from our land. But, I have been hoping, that with the completion of a bridge that I've been working on, maybe, just maybe it would be enough to free us from his control..." Tazuna tightens his hands, and slams it down onto the table, showing his frustration. "He's already taken so much from us! Anymore and...we wont survive for much longer. We barely get by as it is, the Land of Waves has turned into a place that..."
Tazuna began getting emotional.
Each of the Ninja saw it on his face.
"That's why you wanted Ninja more capable than us, right?"
Ryouta asked, Tazuna bowed his head.
"In the beginning, that's right."
Hearing this, Anko lowered her brows.
"While I appreciate what you're saying, even with the bridge being built, someone like Gato simply wouldn't allow it in the first place. He'll come for you, that's why Zabuza and his cronies were there, they aren't weak. Zabuza is a former member of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, one of the most talented killers from Kiri, then not to mention his two little apprentices, they had skills that if any other fresh Genin team came up against, I'd say their chances would be very low. That Mangetsu had the prowess of a Jonin level, and while I didn't fight the kid brother, I can only assume that he's also skilled in the art of murder."
Tazuna bows his head.
"What I've done, and for my lie that endangered you all, I can't apologize enough..."
"Tazuna, don't apologize, what's done is done."
Anko waved it off, and showed her more caring side at the same time, in her own special Anko kind of way.
Hope rose within Tazuna and Tsunami.
"Y-You mean..."
"You're going to help us?"
Anko looked over each of her Genin team, seeing their determination.
"We're already involved, we can't go until we see the conclusion of this. Whatever that is going to be."
Tazuna looked so relieved.
It was evident on his face that he was.
"Thank you, thank you so much."
Anko chortled, waving her hand side to side.
"Don't thank us yet, we haven't sorted out the problem. Payment can be dealt with at another time, I'm sure the old timer would be fine with settling it some other way. Maybe you do some work for Konoha without us having to pay or something."
"You don't know how much this means to me. I am sorry for deceiving your village, I thought that this was the only way."
"As I said, don't apologize further, what's happened can't be changed now. But, we did manage to weaken them...I'm not sure how long it is going to be before they try another attack, all I can presume is that we have at least a few days. They'll also have to make preparations, they saw the capabilities that we have." Her eyes went to Ryouta. "Ryouta, send a message back to the Hokage, and request back up. Explain the situation also of course."
"Yes Sensei."
Ryouta agreed, seeing that Anko was in a bit of pain.
"Karin, have you got their chakra signatures down?"
"O-Of course, I've got a good sense of their chakra, if they come anywhere near here, then I'll be able to detect them right away."
"All that remains is to make sure that this area is secured, if Zabuza placed any traps around here while we were fighting...Haku, I'll leave that to you."
"Yes Sensei, I'll do my best."
Anko gave the smallest of nods, before rubbing the place her neck was painful.
"Great...then Tazuna, is there a bathroom around here?"
"Upstairs, Tsunami could you show her?"
Tsunami smiled.
"Of course, please follow me."
Anko stood up, but all three of the her students this time noticed that she seemed to be a bit shaky on her feet as she walked up the stairs.
Ryouta saw her free hand clutch onto the hand rails going up the stairs.
Trying to steady her balance.
As she did, each of her Genin were worried for her, but Anko seemed as if she wouldn't reveal about it, so they went to go and do the tasks they were given to the best of their ability.
Meanwhile, Zabuza and the other four with him, consisting of Mangetsu, Suigetsu and the Demon brothers all had made it back to their smallish hideout, with Zabuza sitting down and tending to his injured hands.
Mangetsu had a surprisingly angry expression on his face, while Suigetsu was pouting.
"I can't believe it! They actually got me! And even that red headed girl too! Big brother, we have to pay them back for that!"
"It seems that they were more resilient than we thought they'd be."
Mangetsu growled out, as Zabuza raised an eyebrow.
"You're angry because you lost your sword to that Sensei woman."
"Yes, that's part of the reason Zabuza-sama. We also failed you, for that I can only offer my apologies."
Zabuza began chortling.
"A second coming of the Demon offering an apology?"
"Because I briefly allowed myself to fall for their trap, I wasn't able to beat my opponent, and because of that, we were weakened as a result."
Zabuza eyed up the young white haired male, before rolling his eyes.
"Don't take it so seriously, we went up against strong opponents. We went up against the Sharingan, and the Ice Release user, along with a woman that commands snakes, and the last girl, she's definitely more support from my assessments, but at the same time, she had enough intelligence to even outlast in a fight against Suigetsu. So there's no errors from any of you, we simply will have to be more prepared next time."
"So, we get to kill them right? Aaah! I want to have a serious match against one of them! Maybe the Uchiha kid?"
Suigetsu grinned, but Zabuza shook his head.
"While you're talented in the art of combat Suigetsu, you simply don't have the capabilities of dealing with the boy with the Sharingan. However, that doesn't mean you still wont be useful. As with you, Demon brothers. Thanks to your efforts, we were able to escape for the time being."
The two men looked ready for a fight, and simply bowed their heads.
Just then, there was a loud banging at the door.
Zabuza held a frown on his face as the door was pushed open.
A short man stepped through, his appearance was that of a high class business man. But his sinister eyes and evil smirk told Zabuza that he was a worthless person that existed only for him to gain funds from.
Apart from that, Zabuza didn't care about him at all.
"So, did you do the task I gave you?"
The man who was known as Gato asked, as two of his henchmen carrying swords began to walk in.
"Hit a little snag, seems like he had some Ninja protection."
Gato's face contorted angrily.
"You failed?"
"Call it a mere delayed death, next time I wont fail."
Gato's brows furrowed as he waved his hand to his men.
"If you don't succeed next time then I'll..."
Before he could say it, Mangetsu used his water bullets to hit the side of the bodyguards temples, the force of the water was hard enough to cause their eyes to turn white, and fall down to the floor, completely unconscious, igniting fear within Gato.
"Zabuza-sama said that he'd succeed next time, so he will. Don't forget to pay us."
Zabuza chortled.
"As my teammate said, we wont fail next time. We'll need a few days to prepare, that's all."
Gato was visibly shaken by what had just happened.
Seeing Mangetsu do that so quickly, along with how Zabuza was releasing killing intent.
Even an aura was around Zabuza, showing his seriousness.
Gato's hands began to shake as did his body.
"You...You do the job, and you get your money. Until then, you don't get a single coin."
Zabuza smirked at the fear that Gato was showing.
"Fair enough, just make sure that we're paid, but now I'm doubling it."
Gato tightened his shaking hand.
The anger on his face was replaced with fear quickly when seeing the annoyed look in Zabuza's eyes.
"W-Why you...you have the guts to say that..."
"That was just when we were fighting a mere bridge builder. Now we're fighting strong Ninja, I'd like at least double, or you can forget about it. The bridge will be built, and you'll have lost a lot of money, along with those Ninja's that could put a stop to you. Your choice."
Gato grit his teeth.
He truly didn't want to lose money, but he also hated Zabuza for saying that as well.
"...When they're dead, I agree."
Zabuza smirked from underneath his bandaged face.
"Then we're in agreement. As I said, give us a few days."
Gato turned his head, and began walking away.
Suigetsu raised his fingers in a gun position.
Mangetsu grabbed his hand and forced it down.
When Gato left, Mangetsu turned towards Zabuza.
"Zabuza-sama, our first encounter was something that didn't go our way, and as you said, they have the Sharingan and Ice Release user. What are we going to do now?"
"I've been thinking about that. Hmmm, lets me think about it for a little more time. Though they do have some deadly techniques on their side, we aren't without our own. We have to play to our strengths and their weaknesses, that's all."
"Understood, then I'll do anything you task me."
"Right. For now though, rest. After today, we can't afford to waste any chakra."
Mangetsu nodded, and dragged Suigetsu off with him.
The Demon brothers then were dismissed with a wave of Zabuza's hand.
Once alone, Zabuza contemplated what he was going to do next, and who if anyone could be called to support them. Though his options were limited, and therefore he knew that he'd have to think tactically.
But each time he thought about fighting them, his mind drifted back to Haku.
He didn't want to do that, he wanted his mind to be focused.
But he couldn't do it in the end, and ended up thinking about Haku and how she seemed to be with the others.
Almost like a proud parent…
"Damn it...I have to stop, Haku is my enemy now. She's opposing me...never thought I'd see the day that this would happen. Well, I guess it means that I'll have to kill these lingering feelings within me..."
Zabuza pushed the thoughts of Haku out of his mind, and began to think about what he was going to do next…
But he knew what he'd have to do.
Though deep within Zabuza, something Zabuza would deny, he was feeling more conflicting than he ever had done before, and that was thanks to Haku.
That night, Ryouta laid in bed, and stared at the ceiling above. His mind cast back to Anko and what happened that day, with how she was usually in pain. Though he knew that Mangetsu got in a few blows, it wasn't to the point where she'd be seriously injured.
The thoughts he had also went back to the mark on her neck.
He kept thinking about what that mark could be.
He then felt the urge for the bathroom come over him, so he got up, and walked to the bathroom.
Doing his business, he came back out, and noticed out of the corner of his eye was a young boy, wearing a stripped hat, and around the age of eight. Though he hadn't seem him much yet, he did know of his existence thanks to Tsunami explaining beforehand.
He turned to meet the boys eyes, seeing that he was giving Ryouta a hard stare.
"Hello, my name is Ryouta Uchiha, I'm one of the Ninja that's been assigned to protect your Grandfather."
The boy, named Inari tightened his hands.
"What you're trying to do, you'll fail."
Ryouta blinked in perplexity, but then furrowed his brows.
"Is that so? And why's that?"
"Because Gato's too strong!"
"According to what I've heard, Gato isn't a Ninja."
Ryouta replied, but Inari shook his head.
"Ninja's don't have the power to face Gato, he's too rich and powerful….so why even bother?"
Ryouta furrowed his brows.
"If we don't, then who will?" Inari was silenced as Ryouta continued. "While Gato's here, he gets away with stripping this land poor." As he said it, he noticed Tsunami's appearance behind a wall. "People like your family, and friends will continue to suffer. Your Grandfather is trying to fight Gato anyway he can. And we're here to make sure the Land of Waves doesn't suffer anymore."
"...It's foolish, you'll only end up dead."
Inari clutched his hands, and began to tremble, before running off down the corridor.
When he disappeared, Ryouta leaned against a wall as Tsunami came walking out.
"If my son was rude to you, I'm sorry Uchiha-kun, he's had a few bad experiences in his life."
"It's quite alright, Tsunami-san. Please don't worry."
"I though understand what you're all trying to do for us, and I appreciate it."
Ryouta smiled.
"Thank you, I promise we'll do what we can for the Land of Waves. Our village should send some back up to us soon. Until then, I promise to defend you all with my life."
Tsunami gained an appreciative smile.
"Though my son doesn't, my Dad seems to believe in you, so I will too."
Ryouta smiled in return.
"Please rest, we'll make sure nothing happens."
Tsunami bowed her head.
"Thank you, good night."
"Yes, good night."
Ryouta watched the young woman go to bed, before his eyes cast back at the door Anko was behind.
He hoped nothing serious was wrong with her, for the moment he had to trust her judgement.
If she wished for help, then he'd try his best for her.
Early in the morning, as the sun was rising, Ryouta once more laid in his bed, thinking about the situation, and wondered how Haku was feeling right now. He didn't have a chance to speak to her the previous day, so he thought that maybe he could try now while everyone else was asleep.
So he went towards her bedroom, and quietly knocked on the door.
"Haku-chan, are you awake?"
He whispered, and he waited for a few brief moments before hearing a reply.
[Yes, I'm awake.]
"May I come inside?"
[Yes, please do.]
Ryouta walked in, seeing Haku with her long hair down.
She usually kept it up in a bun, so seeing her hair down looked really good on her. So much so that Ryouta's face began to turn slightly red at the sight.
"Ryou-kun, is there something wrong? Your face is turning red."
"O-Oh no, it's nothing~" Ryouta chortled out, shutting the door behind him, and walked over to Haku. "Haku-chan, I wanted to see if you were okay. After the meeting with Zabuza-san...I know that you have hard conflicting feelings about him, right?"
Haku lowered her eyebrows.
"I do yes." She confessed. "I...I didn't want to believe it at first, Zabuza-sama was...he was there. When he looked at me...I don't know what he was feeling. Back when I used to follow him, my life was for making sure Zabuza-sama was safe. But thanks to you Ryou-kun...I get to live a life where I can go for my own goals. However...I'm conflicted on what I'm supposed to do now Ryou-kun. I don't...I don't want Zabuza-sama to die."
"I know..."
Ryouta's soothing voice caused her to feel a bit better.
But then Haku clutched her hands, which dragged up her bedsheets enough to expose her feet.
"I'm a Ninja of Konoha, but I was also Zabuza-sama's tool. I'm not his tool anymore, but my affection for Zabuza-sama...I can't forget it. When we were fighting...I almost let Karin-san down and she could've died as a result."
Ryouta moved closer, allowing his hand to slide on top of her own comfortingly.
"You snapped out of it."
"If you hadn't of been there, I might've not."
Ryouta chortled, shaking his head.
"You underestimate yourself Haku-chan, you do have the capability to move forward even without me. You did it when you came to a completely new village. Don't doubt yourself Haku-chan."
Haku truly did appreciate what Ryouta was saying.
It caused a warmth to spread deep within her.
Even now, Haku believed Ryouta had a way of getting through to her, and helping her, guiding her.
Like he did back when she first had to leave Zabuza.
Even through her time in Konoha, he had been there, always supporting her.
Haku's arms wrapped around Ryouta, and allowed her head to fall onto his shoulder.
"Ryou-kun...I know Zabuza-sama is our enemy now...but, I don't wish for him to die. I know that he is a man that has caused many situations in the past to happen...but to me, he's someone that saved me from a life where I thought I'd be nothing."
Ryouta remembered what Haku said back in the fight also.
It was very clear that she still cared for Zabuza.
Ryouta thought and didn't say anything for a good while.
Even Haku saw the concentration on his face, and wondered what he was thinking right at that moment.
"Ryou-kun..."
When she went to question it, Ryouta peered into her eyes.
"Haku-chan...I'll do my best for you. I...might have an idea on how to avoid killing them, but I'll need a bit of time. Hopefully Zabuza-san doesn't make a move before then." Ryouta stood up, and went to the door. But then stopped, and turned towards her. "Leave it with me Haku-chan, I'll do everything in my power to make sure you don't have to lose him."
Haku looked perplexed.
But she trusted Ryouta enough to accept what he said.
She watched him leave, wondering what he was going to do next.
Back within Konoha, Hiruzen was having a pleasant day, relaxing within his office, when he saw a crow coming towards his window. He recognized the crow as one that Ryouta had managed to tame for years.
"Hmmmm..."
He hummed, taking the letter from the crow, and read it quietly.
Before reading it, he had to admit that he was troubled, and hoped that it wasn't something to do with Tobi.
But when he read it, he saw something that was almost as bad as that.
Rather, while he knew the enemies couldn't go through attacks, he did know of the dangerous capabilities of Zabuza, and from what he saw Ryouta say in the letter, he knew that they'd have some trouble if they did fight them again.
He began thinking about who was in the area, who could best respond and handle this situation.
He looked through a few files, and missions that others were doing…
Then he came across the perfect one…
At least the closest one that could respond the fastest.
"Though it is a bit troubling to have two Genin teams involved with the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, with both Kakashi and Anko there, plus the Genin that are there are talented, and according to this letter, Ryouta-kun, and the others managed to hold off people even of Zabuza's caliber...yes, it should be enough to send Kakashi to deal with this. Plus we don't have any available Ninja that can deal with the likes of Zabuza that could reach the Land of Waves quick enough in case Zabuza launches another attack besides Kakashi who's in the area. Even Mikoto wont be back for a good few days yet, then there's that Tobi...since Zabuza met Ryouta-kun both times he left the village, maybe it's a coincidence but...Kakashi would be best since he's very strong, so I'll have to rely on Kakashi and Anko's teams for the time being. I just hope that Tobi hasn't resurfaced."
Hiruzen quickly wrote a reply to Ryouta, and sent it off, along with another one that went towards Kakashi's group.
Leaning back, his eyes continued to look out of the window, counting the blessings that he had that the enemy wasn't Tobi.
Within the Land of Waves, over a day had passed, Ryouta kept noticing that Anko was looking worse as time passed by.
She seemed to be biting her lower lip, but otherwise seemed to be her normal self.
They had just received the message about Kakashi coming when Anko called them outside for some training.
"Alright everyone! It's time for us to think of strategies against the trio…I guess five, but the main three that fought were the hardest ones. I've thought about it, and Haku, your Ice Release is going to be something that would definitely work against the watery body of those two boys."
Haku nodded without pause.
Her eyes then went towards Karin.
"Your skills at sensing will be invaluable, until Kakashi arrives we'll be staying here. I've also told Tazuna of this, and he agreed. We have to be at full strength, there's no telling what and when they'll come again and what reinforcements."
"Then Sensei, what kind of training should we do?"
Anko looked at Ryouta, before looking at the two other, then she nodded.
"Right, Karin I'm going to be going over some Taijutsu with you. I heard how you handled yourself, and with some more skills behind you, I'm confident your abilities will be enough to allow us to at least be supported if we become endangered."
"Alright, I'll go along with that."
"Good, then Haku. Your Ice Release, you'll have to concentrating on freezing the opponents. Your mirrors are also something that can change the tide of a battle, so be aware of them also in case we need to either make an escape, get our people away from others...things like that."
Haku nodded, still not saying anything.
Ryouta gave her a slightly concerned look, but he knew that she was still dealing with it mentally, and he knew that she'd be able to fight again, he could see the determination in her eyes.
He just hoped that he'd be able to help before anything major happened.
Anko's eyes turned towards the lone Uchiha before she spoke up.
"Finally, my Uchiha boy, you've fought Zabuza the most, and have dealt with these before. Tell me everything about those encounters, then we'll begin training you also."
She didn't want to have Haku be dragged into that conversation, so she thought that it would be best to ask Ryouta who wasn't as emotionally attached to Zabuza as Haku was.
"Yes Sensei."
Ryouta sat down together with Anko who instructed the others on what to do next.
He went through the events with Zabuza, with Mangetsu, Suigetsu and what happened back when he was with Shisui. Anko paid attention, yet Ryouta saw that she was uncomfortable about something. And her neck seemed to be getting a lot of attention from Anko herself.
"Sensei, did that guy hurt you during the fight?"
Ryouta asked, genuinely concerned for his Sensei.
Anko waved him off.
"Nothing but minor stuff, I've recovered."
Ryouta wasn't convinced.
He did worry for her.
"If you're sure Sensei."
"It's my job to look out for you Genin, you don't have to worry about me."
"But, isn't it all of our jobs to look out for everyone on the team?"
Anko was a little surprised by that.
So much so that she didn't know what she was going to say as a response.
She looked on for a few moments, before adopting a small smirk on her lips.
"...You're right, but you shouldn't have to worry about me." Anko stretched. "Then I'm going to go and train Karin, work on the fundamentals. Also, I'm counting on you."
"Yes Sensei."
Ryouta nodded, and watched her go off towards Karin, and begin some Taijutsu practice.
He just knew that mark on her neck was bothering her, and though he hadn't had a chance to get a good look at it, he saw enough to know it caused Anko pain, something he wanted to help her with.
Meanwhile, in another part of the world, Mei was busy doing a few things. Ao, her assistant stood beside her, as she overlooked a few reports.
She ran a hand through her hair, and sighed deeply.
"This is going to be a tricky situation to deal with..."
"Yes, but for the good of our village, it has to be done."
"I understand that, however..."
As she was going to speak, she saw a crow coming closer.
She became giddy and clapped her hands together a single time.
"Ooh, my future hubby's writing me again!"
Mei said excitedly, a glint of excitement in her eyes, knowing how Ao would react when she said who.
"Future...hubby?"
Ao mumbled, hoping it wasn't who he thought it was.
Mei, with a smile, revealed who it was with a gleeful tone.
"Shisui's little brother~ My future hubby~"
Ao's face turned paler.
"N-Not him! Mei-sama, he's going to be as scary as Shisui!"
"And I hope more handsome~"
"Ooh no...Shisui's brother..."
Ao shuddered as Mei watched the crow land before her.
Her eyes overlooked the crow, and took out the letter.
Seeing the special seal only the pair could break so no one else could read it without the note being destroyed, they were very careful, neither message could be intercepted by enemies.
She read it quietly to herself, first she was excited…
But then she became perplexed.
"Wait...is he serious?"
"What Mei-sama?"
Mei placed a finger to her chin.
"This message, it wasn't what I expected."
"What does the note say?"
Mei handed over the note, and Ao read it.
Once finished reading it, Ao looked back to Mei.
"What are you thinking?"
"That's a good question, it is tricky. Indeed...the situation has changed from back then, and working with Zabuza...I'm not sure. He isn't wrong, if Zabuza was with us...then it would be easier. Yet at the same time...I don't know, I'm not sure if we can trust Zabuza..."
Mei couldn't risk it, or could she?
She wasn't sure.
She sat down while thinking of what to write as a reply.
Ao also didn't know what she was going to say, and thought deeply about it himself.
Eventually, Team Seven finally arrived within the Land of Waves. After receiving their mission from the Hokage directly via a message, Kakashi making sure it was correct first, they headed off and arrived within a day of travelling.
"Aah man! So this is the Land of Waves huh!?"
"Hmph, lets see who's here then."
"Ehehe..."
Naruko's blue eyes brimmed with excitement, Satsuki had to admit she also had some excitement within, while Sakura looked less excited than her two teammates.
Kakashi twitched his shoulder.
"Remember, this is still a mission, we've been deployed because we were the closest, and there is no telling when the enemy might attack."
Kakashi explained as they walked forward.
"Still, I'm shocked that they'd need our help. Who are these Ninja Sword guys anyway Sensei?"
Naruko asked, so Kakashi filled them in.
"Zabuza was a Ninja from Kirigakure, and was renounced for his ability to kill. The fact that Anko's team fought him is telling of their skills. According to what I've been told, it seems that Ryouta Uchiha fought him off."
"Ryou did huh."
Satsuki murmured, Sakura clasped her hands together.
"Of course, he trains really hard!"
"Yes, it also goes to show the fighting potential of that boy and the others." Kakashi added. "This is a mission that requires your intense focus, one slip up could mean the end." The three Genin looked on seriously as Kakashi continued. "But, this is still a mission where we have teammates."
Each of the Genin understood.
Satsuki folded her arms, and thought about how Ryouta was able to fight off someone that even Kakashi had said was strong.
Kakashi also thought about the teams, and thought that this would be probably the best team they could work with out of the graduating class, since he knew Satsuki and Ryouta had some of the best teamwork due to them growing up together, and knowing one another inside out, he also was aware that Sakura and Naruko also had good teamwork with Ryouta, and the others within Anko's group.
Going through the dense woods, Kakashi had a feeling that something was watching them. Satsuki had the same feeling, as they heard a crow up above making the usual crow sound.
Working deeper into the woods, they saw the area that Ryouta and the others had a fight not long ago.
With the burns on the ground, the trees that had been broke or cut or something else, it showed the battle was a fierce one.
"So, this is the place they fought Zabuza and the others..."
Kakashi murmured.
"Yes, that's right Kakashi-sensei."
Sakura and Naruko gasped while Satsuki looked towards the left.
Kakashi's lone eye went left also, seeing that Ryouta was stood there with his hands behind his back.
"Ah, there you are. I was told that someone would meet us."
"To direct you back to Tazuna-sans house, I was sent while Karin-chan is using her sensing abilities to keep track around the area that she's in. Due to the enemy being capable of attacking at any moment, Sensei thought it would be best that I come here to escort you, and make sure you are who you are. I've been observing you, and can see that you aren't using a Transformation."
Naruko and Sakura both were surprised that Ryouta had been monitoring them.
Satsuki had an idea with the crow, presuming that Ryouta turned into one, while Kakashi also was aware, and thought it was rather smart.
"I see, that's a good idea. Are you satisfied?"
"Yes, I'd recognize Satsuki-chan's chakra colour anywhere, the same for Naruko-chan and Sakura-chan."
"Then we'll follow you."
"Yes please follow me. Anko-sensei will fill you in on everything that's been going on for the past few days in better detail than the letter had offered."
Kakashi agreed, and followed together with his team.
As they walked, his eyes went to Sakura first, seeing that she was alright which made him happy.
Then he saw Satsuki, who came next to him and casually held onto his hand, something Sakura scowled about.
"You alright? I heard you fought Zabuza."
"Yes, I'm alright Satsuki-chan. Did you worry about me?"
Satsuki turned her neck left, and didn't reveal anything about it.
Ryouta though could see the care on her face as he whirled his neck around towards her.
"Even if you don't say it, I understand. I also worried about you."
Satsuki turned her neck back towards him, offering a small smile.
Kakashi was quite amazed, he hadn't seen Satsuki smile...at all like that.
It was filled with affection, and care.
A stark contrast to how she usually acted with others.
"You don't have to worry about me...either way, we're together now. Zabuza wont know what's hit him."
"He's still very skilled Satsuki-chan, we have to remain cautious. Even if we have the Sharingan on our side."
"Yeah, you're right. Lets be cautious."
Kakashi was quite happy to see that Ryouta wasn't being overly confident, and also he saw that Satsuki agreed.
Then Ryouta's eyes went towards Naruko, and he smiled.
She also gave her usually cheerful grin, but then a thought hit her head, and her mind cast back to what happened with Mizuki.
She knew it was stupid to let it bother her now...but she just couldn't let it out of her mind, and she turned her head towards the right, avoiding his gaze.
He gave a slightly sad look, as they continued on.
When they finally arrived at the house, they were greeted by Anko, Haku and Karin.
"Anko."
"Hey Kakashi, aren't you a sight for sore eyes?"
Kakashi gave a slightly bemused look.
"So we've arrived, heard about what happened from Hokage-sama. We'll do what we can to support you guys."
Anko nods.
"Then I wont have to explain about Zabuza. But, we also are aware of him having a number of thugs and bandits with him. The man we're going up against is someone named Gato, who hired Zabuza. According to what information we could find out, it seems that he has a good number of people working for him. We aren't sure on the exact number, conflicting reports put it anywhere between fifty and a hundred."
Kakashi breathes through his nose slowly.
"Gato huh..."
"He's filthy rich, twisted and loves to make people suffer. You know, the usual ass..." Her eyes went towards the Genin around, and chortled awkwardly. "...the horrible type that loves to take advantage of others~"
Kakashi gave a bemused look towards Anko, seeing her being rather relaxed, yet still looked ready to brawl at any moment.
"Still, our Genin can handle the average bandit. Even if there is a hundred of them."
"I thought that as well. However, there are two, besides Zabuza that could cause some problems if they're properly prepared. Two of them have the ability to turn their bodies to water, we should prepare the Genin for that kind of battle."
"Turn their bodies into water?"
Kakashi echoed, flabbergasted that was the case.
"I believe it's called Hydrofication Sensei. I remember my brother telling me when we them fought years ago. He said that it came from the Hozuki Clan."
Ryouta informed Kakashi who hummed.
"Hmmmm...I believe I've heard of that also. Then if that's the case, then I believe my Lightning Release would be a good match up against them."
"I'd say that yeah." Anko added. "Also, it seems overwhelming power turns them into some kind of jelly like state. So either overwhelming force, or being able to use their weakness of being water against them. I'd also say trapping them in an airtight place would stop them, judging from my own observations."
"Understood, then we should get to work straight away."
Anko nods.
"My thoughts exactly. However, Tazuna still needs to go to the bridge, and we all can't stay here to train."
Kakashi places a finger to his chin in thought.
"Then the best solution would be to have one of us go and one stay here to train. Split the team. Since there's enough of us..."
As he spoke, Anko pulled Kakashi away from the others so they couldn't hear them.
Far enough away, Kakashi was mildly surprised by what was going on, and had to question it.
"What's wrong?"
"I couldn't say it in front of the others, and you being a Sensei as well, I thought I should let you know that my Curse Mark acted up." Kakashi's lone eyebrow furrowed. "I've got it under control for the moment, but I thought that if it acts up again...it's partly the reason I wished for you guys to come. If it didn't act up, then I could've done more for my Genin. As it is, they were able to fight off Zabuza, and the little white haired one, and even came to help me out. I didn't want to let them down."
Despite Anko's bravado, he could see that she seemed to be genuinely affected by what happened during their fight.
"I understand. I do know some Sealing Jutsu if you'd wish for me to try it out for you?"
Anko chortled.
"That's just an excuse to try and get my shirt off, isn't it?"
She joked to the bewildered Kakashi who began coughing.
"W-What?!"
Anko flew into a fit of laughter, especially when seeing Kakashi almost fell over.
"Hahaha! You're so easy to fluster! But, it's alright. I'll be able to handle it for the time being. It isn't flaring up right now."
"Stubborn, it doesn't have to be that way."
"Don't worry, it's alright. I can handle it."
Kakashi wasn't sure.
But he couldn't force her to do something against her wishes.
"Alright then. I've got a few ideas..."
Kakashi expressed the ideas to the young woman who agreed.
Returning to the Genin, they each sat down before Kakashi and Anko, who began explaining what would be happening.
"We'll be taking it in turns for the next few days, who goes to the bridge and who stays and trains. For today, Ryouta Uchiha, you'll be going together with Sakura, and Anko, is that alright with you two?"
Sakura's face turned upwards in glee as Karin gave her a sharp scowl, while Ryouta smiled, nodding.
"Yes, that's okay with me Sensei."
"Good, then I'll be training Haku, Karin, Naruko and Satsuki. I've been alerted to the fact that you each know how to walk up trees, correct?" They all nodded. "Then I'll be giving you each a task which I believe would benefit you individually."
"Alright then, Sakura, Ryouta, come with me."
""Yes Sensei!""
With that, Ryouta, Sakura, and Anko disappeared together.
Leaving behind Kakashi and the others, he began to train them in various things that he thought they'd need.
"Alright everyone, it's time to work on some teamwork based skills."
"Teamwork?"
Satsuki asked, but Kakashi shook his head.
"We have the numbers, we should take advantage of that Satsuki. Since you all know how to walk up trees with chakra, I wont have to waste time in doing that. So this is the best kind of training that we can do. Now come on, get to it."
Satsuki looked between the members here, shrugging her shoulders.
Haku also seemed to be alright with it.
Karin showed a determined face.
Naruko on the other hand...she seemed to be acting rather quiet, a stark contrast to how she usually is.
Kakashi hummed, wondering what that was all about, but pushed it to the back of his mind, as long s she was concentrating then for the moment he didn't interfere.
On the bridge, Ryouta, Anko and Sakura stood together. Ryouta stood in between them, and watched Tazuna and a few of his colleagues get to work. Sakura's eyes drifted towards Ryouta's body and his lingering hand that dangled by his side.
"I can't believe it! We're actually on a mission together..." Sakura began giddily, but then she stopped herself. "Wait...no, I can't become too excited. We still are on a mission, I'm sure Ryou-kun will be taking it very seriously, so I have to as well."
As she was thinking, Ryouta caught her staring at him.
"Something on your mind Sakura-chan?"
"E-Eh! N-No! Nothing at all!"
Anko gave a teasing smile.
"She's been thinking about making out with you~"
"A-Anko-sensei! D-Don't say that!"
Anko stuck out her tongue and winked, while Ryouta looked between them.
"Sakura-chan..."
"N-No! It isn't true at all!"
Anko pulled back with a smirk that basically said her work was done, she liked to tease people after all.
Ryouta gave a bemused look, before looking over the bridge.
He saw Tazuna working as hard as he could, which made sense to him since this was his land, his life.
However, Ryouta then saw that Tazuna was approached by a man.
Ryouta, Sakura and Anko watched on as they had a conversation.
It was brief, but they all saw that Tazuna had a bowed head as the man walked off, seemingly leaving the bridge.
Tazuna then walked towards the three Ninja.
"There goes another one."
"You mean he's quit?"
Sakura asked, Tazuna nods.
"He's worried about Gato, and his power. If he continues, he's worried his family could be brought in and killed. I understand his worries, and fears. Even I am worried, but I know that this has to be done, I don't have another way other than this. He tried to convince me to stop...but, I can't. Not until I've done everything that I can..."
"Yeah..."
Anko murmured while overlooking the bridge.
"That's why, you are here, Tazuna-san. To bring back hope to those who have lost it. You keep working on the bridge, we'll protect you."
Ryouta added, Tazuna gained a genuine smile.
"Right, I'm counting on you guys."
Ryouta watched as the man continued doing his work, as fewer men than before were doing the same thing.
Sakura looked over the others, seeing that the few there, didn't have much hope on their faces.
Her eyes then went towards Ryouta, and tilted her head, seeing his determined eyes.
Later on, they went back from the bridge, and walked through the village in the Land of Waves.
Ryouta glanced at Anko, seeing her rubbing her neck once more, feeling the sting in her neck, while Sakura looked around the area.
Seeing the poverty of the area, Sakura understood why Tazuna wished for the bridge to be built.
"It's really bad, what that Gato has done."
Sakura brought up to Tazuna who agreed.
"You're right, that's why I'm so determined."
"I wish we could do more to help out..."
"Don't worry, this is more than enough Sakura-san. If you do your job, we can do our job, and hopefully change this."
As they spoke, Ryouta noticed a man walking by.
His eyes landed on Sakura's bag that held some of her things in.
His hand went towards her, so before it could go for her bag, Sakura turned around and grabbed his wrist, Ryouta smiling at the sight.
"I know you're in a bad way...but you don't have to resort to stealing from me."
The man looked troubled as Sakura let go of his wrist, before he ran off.
"That was cool Sakura-chan~"
Sakura giggled as she rubbed the back of her head.
Tazuna looked back at the man who tried to steal from Sakura, before looking on in regret.
"I'm sorry about that..."
"Please don't apologize Tazuna-san, we understand why he tried to do it, right Sakura-chan?"
"Y-Yeah, I just feel bad that it has gotten this bad, so I don't really hold much against that man. That Gato is a real horrible creep."
"Ain't that the truth."
Anko chuckled out, though Ryouta noticed that she winced as she did so, Tazuna gave a relieved smile.
"Yes, thank you for understanding."
Ryouta waved his hand.
"We should get back to the house and see if they're okay."
"Good idea Ryou-kun. Besides, I'm a bit hungry~"
Sakura added on so they hurried back towards Tazuna's house, while Ryouta looked back at the people in the streets.
He shook his head, his anger for Gato was growing more and more.
It was disgusting what Gato had done in Ryouta's eyes, and he, more than Zabuza, definitely was the true villain in this. Even without the power to back up what he's doing, Gato's actions had caused a lot of ache, and heartbreak.
After the first night of Kakashi's group coming together, they all headed to bed.
Ryouta shared a room with Satsuki, the young girl had her head laid on his chest, as he smiled down towards her.
"Have fun training Satsuki-chan?"
"I wouldn't call it fun."
"Still, was it useful?"
"I guess it was, that Naruko keeps pushing herself hard though."
Ryouta lightly smiled.
"Don't tell me that you don't like that."
Satsuki smirks ever so slightly.
"It's good motivation, can't fall behind her, after all."
"Hehe, of course~" Ryouta chortled as Satsuki allowed her arms to wrap around Ryouta's body. "Seems like we ended up on the same mission Satsuki-chan."
"Yeah, seems so. We did teamwork building today."
"That's good Satsuki-chan, working together is a good idea."
"Hmph, I guess that it could be." Satsuki snuggled against Ryouta while breathing through her nose. "Still, at least we're together. We might be able to show them all that we have some of the best teamwork in Konoha."
"Hehe, maybe so~ Lets try our best~"
Satsuki didn't respond, but showed a semi happy face, more than she'd show others.
Soon afterwards, Satsuki fell asleep while Ryouta stayed away.
"Naruko-chan...Now that we're on a mission, whatever's going on, we have to be at tip top shape, and work together, which is kinda difficult when she's avoiding me...I'll have to speak with her.. And then there's Anko-sensei..."
While Ryouta thought about it, nature called, so he quietly slipped out of bed, and went to the bathroom.
Once finished, he went to go back, when he heard a groaning of pain coming from Anko's room.
Ryouta became more concerned, and went towards her bedroom.
"Anko-sensei, is everything-"
[Aaaah!]
He heard her call out in pain, Ryouta placed his hand to the wooden door.
"Anko-sensei, I'm coming in."
He pushed the door open, and saw Anko sat up against the wall, with her hand clutching her neck.
Anko's eyes initially held anger.
But then they softened when she saw that he had a genuine look of concern on his face.
"I'm sorry for coming in Anko-sensei, but you sounded to be in real pain." Ryouta's eyes went towards her neck. "Sensei...forgive me for saying...but, I noticed on your neck, some kind of mark...is that the reason why you're in pain?"
Anko breathed in and out through her nose.
"...I can't hide it now I guess...yeah, that's right. This mark..."
Ryouta pulled closer, shutting the door behind him so no one else heard.
"That mark..."
"It's something I got from someone I truly do despise. Sometimes it acts up like this, I think the seal on it has been disrupted, it wasn't broken or anything..."
"Seal...may I take a look?"
Anko gave a bemused look.
"You good with seals?"
"I'm not that bad, I think. I've been studying seals for a few years now."
"Why's that?"
"Because I thought it would help me in my goals."
Anko raised an eyebrow.
She thought about it for a little while.
She had known Ryouta for a good few years now, while their meetings were infrequent due to how busy she was, she did know that he only had the best intentions for others.
"Alright, I'll bite."
Anko began sliding off her jacket, showing off her fishnet shirt as she placed a hand to her hair, and pulled it away so the mark could be seen.
Ryouta moved towards her neck, and inspected it.
He took a few moments to look over it, and even used his Sharingan to have a look, and saw some sinister chakra coming from it.
"It seems to be a disturbed but not broken seal, and is having some of its power leak out. That Mangetsu was probably trying to release it, but wasn't able to get that far. From what I can see...I'd be able to repair the seal for you."
Anko looked mildly surprised.
"You can do that huh? Alright, but if it messes with me, there will be hell to pay!"
Ryouta chortled.
"Understood. I'll do my best."
Ryouta quickly went to get the tools he'd need, and then came back.
Anko watched as he delicately began to run his fingers across the place the seal was, she saw that he had even used some of his blood. Seeing his proficiency, she had to admit that she was pleasantly surprised, but glad at the same time.
"If I'm not mistaken, this is a Juinjutsu, right Sensei?"
"Yeah...a Curse Mark. Maybe if you're lucky, I'll tell you sometime how I got it."
"That would be your choice Sensei."
"Haha, it would be~ Though, you should consider yourself lucky, you're the only man that I've ever taken my jacket off for~ I wouldn't even do this for Kakashi~"
Ryouta's face turned red as she gave him a cute yet teasing expression.
"S-Sensei..."
"Heh, you are going to be fun to tease~"
Ryouta furrowed his brows as he continued to draw across Anko's skin in his blood, along with applying the necessary chakra. He also began drawing on a piece of paper also, infusing some chakra within it.
After about five minutes, Ryouta clasped his hands together.
"Then I'm ready Sensei. Though I'm only repairing some of the seal, it will be a bit painful."
"That's fine, do what you've got to do."
"Then...here we go."
Ryouta flew through some hand signs, and then placed his hands on Anko's neck.
As he did, all of the marks he made in his own blood went towards the Curse Mark.
"Aaah...damn it..."
Anko groaned in pain, gritting her teeth.
"Not much longer now Sensei..."
"Don't worry...aah...I've been through...more pain than...this before..."
Ryouta nodded, and continued the best that he could do.
Anko held her hands together, clutching them as she felt the seal being repaired.
But before she knew it, the seal had been applied, allowing her to breathe a little easier.
"Haaah...Haaah..."
She panted as Ryouta pulled back. She placed her hands on the ground, as sweat dripped from her face.
"How is it Sensei?"
Ryouta asked after half a minute, allowing Anko to return to sitting down normally, brushing her face of the excess sweat that she had.
Anko rotated her shoulder, cracking it as she gazed in the mirror, seeing that her Curse Mark had been sealed quite well.
"Amazing...you do know your stuff after all."
"No problem Sensei. I'm glad to be of help."
Anko looked back towards him, and adopted a light smile.
She felt...warmth erupting from the place her heart was.
She could see the genuine concern, and how he didn't ask questions when she said she didn't want to speak.
Anyone else, and she'd wonder what their angle would be.
But, with Ryouta…
Something told her that he wouldn't have an angle other than to help.
"You're an odd one, but a good one."
She murmured, though Ryouta caught something had been said.
"Hmm? Did you say something Sensei?"
Anko shook her head.
"It's nothing. Seems like the seals back to normal, thanks for that kid...no, Ryouta, thank you."
Saying it with a genuine sounding voice, Ryouta gave a soft smile.
"You're my Sensei, we're apart of the same team. We should do what we can for one another, right?"
Anko gave a slightly humble smile.
"Yeah...you're right. Anyway, get to bed, early to rise tomorrow."
"Yes Sensei..."
Anko looked over the seal, before chortling.
"So tell me, where did you learn about seals as complex as this?"
"Hokage-sama once allowed me to have a peak at some of the seals in a special scroll in exchange for helping him. I saw how to apply them, disable them, things like that. I recognized what Mangetsu-san did from that."
Anko gained a smirk.
"I see, I see~ Then I guess it's a good thing that you've learned that. Now, off to bed."
"Right, good night Sensei."
Anko gave a surprisingly soft smile.
"Yes, good night."
Ryouta bowed, and walked out of the room.
Anko placed her hand to her Curse Mark, then she looked at the paper, before a smile erupted onto her face.
"What a...kind boy..."
Anko placed the paper in her now off her body jacket pocket, before she laid down in her bed.
She stared at the ceiling, and couldn't get the thought of what Ryouta had done for her.
Soon, she settled down and began falling asleep, a peaceful one at that.
Meanwhile, Zabuza was getting his own preparations on the way, making sure that his group was ready for when they'd confront Anko and her team, currently unaware of the fact that Kakashi had arrived.
However, while he was, he felt something was amiss.
He heard the slightest of noises coming from outside of the door.
During his years of training, he had learned to pick up the slightest of noise. He knew the location of all of his own men, so he knew it couldn't be them. He grabbed his blade, and silently walked towards the door.
However, the moment he went to rapidly open it, the door flung open, revealing a long blade being thrown towards him.
Zabuza parried the blade with his own, and swung it left, only to see that wire was coming towards him, attempting to wrap it around him. Zabuza scoffed, and quickly used his large blade as a stepping stone, before the wire could slice right through him as it became a circle around his form, and only bound his blade in place.
Then he moved to the door, grabbing a kunai and held it to the throat of the man that attacked him.
"Hey, hey, hey! There's no need to be hasty now!"
"Kushimaru, so it's you. And where you are..." His eyes shifted outside to see a relaxed Ameyuri staring back at him. "...so is the lightning woman."
"Zabuza, it's been a few years. Though we didn't see one another during that time, I recall when you were attacked by Mei Terumi."
"Hmph, wrong. I was attacked by your boyfriend here."
Ameyuri scoffed while Kushimaru grinned from behind his mask.
"You must be having a joke, this guy isn't my boyfriend. I don't care about him."
"Hey! Don't say that Ameyuri-chan! You're the love of my life! I'd follow you till the day I perish!"
"You already haunt me and I don't like you~!" Ameyuri let out playfully. "I told you to not attack, didn't I? We need to be smart, I know that's difficult for you who's always soaked in blood to understand, but we have to work together with Zabuza."
Kushimaru scowled as a result.
Hearing her, Zabuza scoffed.
"Work together? And why the hell would I do that?"
"Because I'll make an interesting point now. Do you know a man called Kakashi Hatake?"
"Kakashi, name sounds familiar."
Zabuza played it off as if he didn't care.
But he was aware of Kakashi's reputation, and he was sure that he'd be a tough opponent.
"Then I thought I should inform you that he's in the Land of Waves."
Zabuza's face turned darker.
"You're lying."
Ameyuri remained cool despite the killing intent that was being released towards her from him.
She directed her hand outside.
"Check it out yourself, I'm not lying to you. He, along with the Uchiha boy, and his Sensei, even the Ice Release user is here. I'm not trying to say you aren't strong, you probably are stronger than I am. However, in order to have a fighting chance, you're going to need me, and the idiot here."
Kushimaru gave an annoyed look, while Zabuza focused his eyes on them.
If what they said was true, then he knew it would become increasingly difficult for them to win.
"How do you know about this? Why are you even here?"
"We've been given a mission."
"You disbanded from the village years ago."
Zabuza shot back at the cool looking Ameyuri.
"Call me a mercenary now then together with Kushimaru. We're hired to kill people, kind of like yourself, though I have no interest in trying to assassinate the Mizukage."
"Then why are you doing mercenary work?"
"My business, as it is your own."
Zabuza didn't like that.
A rival for what he wished to do, he wanted, needed the money for his next assault against the Mizukage.
"Did Gato hire you?"
Ameyuri gave him a strange look.
"Gato is..."
She seemed genuinely perplexed, so Zabuza huffed.
"I guess he didn't hire you."
"Our client is someone that wishes to remain a secret. However, we have similar goals, and we both need one another. Neither of us have the capability to face off against the enemies such as Kakashi, and I've heard rumours about the Uchiha boy, and the Ice Release user as well. Plus, while I'm not sure of the others, I do know that there are at least six Genin, and two Jonin. Might not be enough, but even you have to admit that it is a tricky situation for you."
Zabuza pulled closer towards Ameyuri.
Kushimaru didn't like it, and tried to inch closer, when Zabuza practically slapped him away with the back of his hand.
"What do you get out of this? I'm not sharing any of my money with you."
"I wouldn't want any. All I want is to complete the mission I've got, and I'll be out of your way. Do what you want afterwards, I just want what I want."
Zabuza furrowed his brows, folding his arms as he thought about it.
If Kakashi was there, and more Genin…
While he wasn't too worried about the Genin, he did know Kakashi could pose a serious threat, and with the members he had with him, he knew that fighting Kakashi, Anko, Ryouta, and Haku alone would be rather dangerous, and then there were the unknowns, he didn't know if the Genin were also dangerous, without seeing them for himself.
"Hurry up and answer Ameyuri-chan you bastard!"
"Shut up you degenerate!"
Kushimaru winced when Ameyuri snapped at him.
Zabuza gave a bemused look.
"Say that we do team up, one instance of you trying to backstab me, I'll have you executed."
"Heh, I didn't expect anything different, Zabuza-kun~"
Zabuza wasn't sure if this was a good idea.
But if it was true, then they were low on options, and he had to think about every eventuality.
Even if he was on edge, he didn't want to lose this chance, and agreed to work with Ameyuri.
End chapter!
So this chapter showed some developments for Anko and Ryouta, Team Seven arrived, and now they're practising for their eventual battle with Zabuza and his group. Zabuza and Ameyuri have also formed, something of an alliance, neither truly trusting the other, but knowing they'd need one another to achieve their goals. Ryouta, wanting to help out Haku, has contacted Mei, who seems to be debating what to do after Ryouta asked her directly. Ryouta's also resolved to speak to Naruko about the Nine Tails, something we'll see next time.
Well, until next time, thanks for reading!
Ryouta; Satsuki, Sakura, Naruko, Hinata, Gaara (fem), Ino, Haku (fem), Kurotsuchi, Karin, Konan, Mei, Anko, Samui,