"This is the stupidest thing I have ever done," Naruto complained as he stared at the cut up tree in front of him. "Why do I have to do this if I can just 'Bamf' up to the top?"
"Naruto," Kurenai said as she pinched the bridge of her nose. "It isn't about getting up the tree, it's about learning to control your Chakra."
"Still doesn't seem useful to me," Naruto whispered as he ran towards the tree. He made it just higher than his last try before he had to flip backwards and land on the ground.
"Naruto-kun," Hinata said continued her spar with Shino upside down on the branches high above him. "You need to concentrate on centering you Chakra to your feet. You just need enough to stick to the tree."
"Oh that's what I was doing wrong," Naruto said sarcasm dripping from every word. Hinata dodged anther punch from Shino, only to toss a Kuni at Naruto who yelped and jumped out of the way. "Ok, ok."
"They seem to be enjoying themselves," Said Kakashi as he leaned on his crutches. Naruto tried and failed again after a steady stream of curses and him 'Bamfing' back and forth on the ground uncontrollably.
"His control is terrible," Kurenai said as she put a hand over her mouth watching the blond throw his tantrum. "He seems to have just too much Chakra to control."
"Yeah that's why he needs this training the most," Kakashi said watching Naruto focus and charge again getting nowhere. "We were so focused on getting him use to his Dojutsu that we disregard the basics."
"He will get it down," Kurenai said as Naruto took out his Tonfas and started to slash at the large tree chipping wood off of it, releasing his anger. "How is my team doing?"
"They just got back from the bridge safe," Kakashi said as he stepped forward. "I believe it will be quiet for a least another week."
"Good," Kurenai said as Naruto fell on his back with a thud. Curses filled the air that even caused Kakashi to raise his eye brow. "He will need it."
"Must have learned that from Anko-chan," Kakashi said as Naruto got up with a fiery look in his eyes. He charged forward screaming something about Youth only to trip and go head first into the tree knocking him out. "And there's Guy-san."
"Naruto-kun!" Hinata said as she dropped from the branch and landed next to the groaning Naruto.
"He will be fine Hinata-chan," Kurenai said after walking over to them. "Lets head back for dinner. Shino-san can you carry Naruto?"
"I could," Shino answered as he started to walk away causing the others to face fault.
"Shino-kun," Hinata said giving him the puppy dog eyes. Shino didn't have to look back, he only lowered his head and walked back to pick up the passed out troublemaker.
"I still can't get this," Naruto said to himself as he stared at the tree.
It has been four days since they first started on this exercise and Naruto was still having trouble with the concept. He managed to apply too much chakra blowing apart his old tree, which caused him to smile at that particular failed attempt. Now he was dialing that amount down till he found the right amount. Naruto fell backwards with a tired sigh. A nap would do him well after the four hours of straight training. Naruto stared at the green canopy above him and his body slowly relaxed.
"If you sleep out here too long you will catch a cold," Said a soft voice that stirred Naruto from his slumber.
Cleaning his eyes Naruto had to do a double take. In front of him was young women. She had long black hair that cascaded against her pale skin. Her big brown eyes bore into him with a type of stare that he read about in his novels. She was beautiful in Naruto's opinion and he had to keep himself in check. For one, he didn't know this person that was able to sneak up on a shonbi, sleeping or not. Two, Hinata-hime would kill him. Naruto slowly leaned forward and looked at what the women had in her hands. She seemed to be collecting herbs, and from his time with Anko-chan he knew that they were for pain relief and faster healing . Thinking quick Naruto pulled on his facade smile.
"Thanks," Naruto said with enthuasim. "I'm Naruto! What's your name?"
"Haku," Haku answered in her soft voice as she smiled back at him.
"Well Haku," Naruto said as he stood and measured himself up. She was slightly taller than him, but then again who wasn't. She had the reach on him if he was to engage her right away, and he still didn't have a lot of chakra. Naruto pointed at her basket in her arms filled with herbs. "Since you helped me, I guess the least I can do is help you pick herbs."
"Oh why thank you," Haku said with a kind smile. They stared at each other and dared the first one to make a move. "What were you doing out here?"
"I was training," Naruto said with a smile and took the first step. He kept her to his side not exposing his back. Kakashi taught him that mistake the first time they trained, that hidden technique shouldn't be allowed on anyone under the age limit. "I'm a Ninja from Kohona!"
"Oh really," Haku asked as she walked next to him as if countering his move. Naruto smirked to himself, his assumption was close to correct. Of course, he could just be paranoid, but he had a bad feeling about this. "Why are you training?"
"So I can become Hokage!" Naruto said turning fully to Haku who mirrored his action immediately. It was becoming a shogi match.
"Why do you want to be Hokage so bad that you would endanger yourself in just training?" Haku asked as if she never has seen such an act. Naruto let out a steady laugh as he leaned down and picked up some herbs from the ground and twirled them in his hand.
"I rather be the one hurt than the ones I care about," Naruto said seriously. "I have a bunch of people I want to make sure I can protect and the only way to do that is to get stronger."
"Your precious people?" Haku whispered as she turned away giving him a shot at her back. It was a daring move, almost baiting him to attack. Naruto instead tapped her shoulder and she turned towards him slowly.
"Excatly," Naruto said with a smile as he handed her the herb he picked up. "And I see you have the same motivation for someone else."
Haku's eyes narrowed and the temperature started to drop around the two of them. Naruot's smile never left his face. He let go of her shoulder and held the herb up a bit more. He twirled it between them showing the small white flowers and little seeds on them.
"This will cure infections and help close wounds," Naruot said as he looked from the herb back to the girl. "Such as scrapes, burns, cuts, and stabs."
"A useful herb," Haku said eyes never leaving Naruto's.
"Yup," Naruto said as he dropped it in her basket. The herb hit he basket and time stood still. Naruto turned and started to walk away causing Haku to gawk at him.
"What are you doing?" Haku choked out. Naruto looked over his shoulder.
"Make sure he is one hundred percent," Naruto said with a smirk. "Cause Kakashi will be, and you seem like a nice girl. I don't want it to be too easy for me when we meet again."
"What is your full name?" Haku asked now regaining her composure. Naruto kept walking with a slight chuckle.
"I'm Naruto Uzimaki," Naruto answered calmly then yelled. "The TIGER OF KOHONA and Future Hokage!"
"Weird," Haku said as she walked away from him with a smirk. "But cute."
"So you sure it was another Ninja?" Kakashi asked as he sipped his tea. He was almost compeltely healed just a bit sore in places.
"Yeah," Naruto said as he flipped a page in his book. "She acted like Naomi in Ica Ica vol two. When she had to infiltrate the hidden spa springs."
"Really?" Kakashi said with a perverted giggle. "So..."
"No," Naruto answered with a flip of the page. "I couldn't imagine what Hinata would do to me if she found out."
"Still good to dream right," Kakashi answered as he sipped his tea again with another giggle. Naruto only nodded his answer in response.
"What are we looking at?" Kakashi asked as Kurenai entered the room.
"What do you mean?" Naruto asked looking at him crossly.
"What information can you gather from your experiences," Kakashi asked causing Naruto to look up with a puzzled look. "You are in a espionage group. Gathering intel with the slightest clues is going to become second nature. So, with that said, what can you tell me."
"Ok," Naruto said putting his book down and drummed his fingers on the cover. It took him a minute, then his his eyes lit up. "First we know she is a range fighter. She was able to strike with deadly precision from a location unknown by the Jonin in the area the first time we met. So that makes her fast and silent. She uses the senbon needles as the weapon of choice. One doesn't get that good with a weapon without having a bit of fetish for it, Anko-chan prime example with the Kuni. Right handed by the way she held her basket and has an ability to blend well in the crowd. I would rank her Chunnin or low Jonin."
"Nice," Kakashi said as he looked over at Kurenai who nodded with approval. "Now go and rest."
"I have to get back to training," Naruto said as he pocketed his book. Kurenai gave it an evil look. "I'm really getting the hang of it."
On the way out of the room he ran into Kiba and Sasuke who were facing off against one another. They seemed to be in the middle of settling a disagreement when the two lashed out at each other in the open training field. Naruto looked over and saw Sakura teary eyed, sitting next to Hinata and Shino.
"So why is duck-butt and dog boy fighting?" Naruto asked when he appeared next to Shino. Sakura jumped a bit from while the Hinata only smiled.
"Well it seems that Sasuke-teme," Shino said just over a whisper. "Has shown some extreme ignorance and has insulted Sakura's skills at Genjutsu. Kiba having enough of his attitude slugged him across the face causing Sasuke to fly outside. And here we are."
"Interesting dinner I've seemed to missed," Naruto said as he crossed his arms. "And don't listen to him Sakura, he's just on some ego trip again. Your eyes have finally opened to see it. HEY KIBA!"
"What's up," Kiba asked as he jumped back from one of Sasuke's swings putting a safe distance between them.
"Hey I need some more help with that stupid tree walking," Naruto said walking out in between the two fighters. "If your done wasting your time with the teme, I could use some pointers."
"N-Naruto-kun?" Hinata questioned and was about to take a step forward when Shino put his had up.
"He's defusing the situation peacefully," Shino whispered causing Hinata to nod her head and step back to Sakura who dried her eyes and looked at the two of them.
"Sounds like your asking for help dope," Sasuke spat. "Your weaker than I thought."
"Asking for help doesn't make one weak," Sakura said as she crossed her arms with a cold stare that would give Kurenai a run for her money. She turned to Kiba and dropped the glare. "Kiba...Thank you."
"You're a pack member," Kiba said with Akamaru barking in agreement. "We look out for each other. Naruto lets roll we got a lot of practice to get to."
"Sure," Naruto said as Akamaru jumped into his arms and Naruto grabbed Kiba's shoulder. Kiba smirked and they were 'Bamfed' away.
"HOW DOES HE DO THAT?" Sasuke yelled. "Why does a weakling like him have the ability to do that."
"Let's go Shino," Hinata her hands shaking a bit in rage. "I might not be able to control my actions if I keep listening to this trash."
"What did you say halfbreed?" Sasuke asked looking at Hinata who continued to walk away.
Sakura looked between them and Sasuke who was staring at her. Sakura made the decision that would forever be remembered. She turned her back on Sasuke and followed Hinata and Shino, not even shedding a tear. Sakura caught up to them and could hear a slight angry buzzing sound escaping Shino while Hinata had a stone cold look. Sakura knew they were upset from the comments from Sasuke, and she felt ashamed for being on the same team as him. They stopped at an open area that they used for training and turned to each other.
"Sakura," Hinata said as she looked over at her. "I'm only going to say this once. If you want to be our friend there is one thing you can't do."
"What is that?" Sakura asked at the crazy statement.
"Well," Hinata said as she crossed her arms over her chest. "Naruto, he's mine. You can look, but cant touch."
"HUH?" Sakura asked Shino face palmed. "Are you guys a couple now?"
"Umm," Hinata said as she looked away face flushing. "Not really, I mean he hasn't asked yet. But I know he will soon!"
"Ok," Sakura said giggling. "I promise."
"Good," Hinata said with a confident smirk.
"Do you have any restrictions Shino?" Sakura asked with a mischievous smile. "Am I not allowed to flirt with someone?"
"NO!" Shino said waving his hands in front of him. "I'm just as shocked as you. But no, the only thing I ask is don't get weirded out by symbiotic relationship."
"I'm not a fan, but I wont get weird," Sakura said. "Now what are we going do for training."
"Well," Hinata said looking back at her. "Since we don't really know too many different Genjutsu's we were hoping you could teach us a couple of ways to detect and stop them. Then we will work from there."
"Ok," Sakura said as she smiled at them. "But I must warn you, Kurenai-sensei has said that my abilities, for some reason are harder to detect."
"All the more better," Shino answered as he crossed his arms. "If we can detect and stop yours others will be easier. You can also improve yourself by finding a way to become almost undetected by practicing on people who know your about to cast a Genjutsu."
"One thing guys, you are already in one," Sakura said confidently as the ground gave out and both Hinata and Shino tried to break it.
"How did you do that?" Hinata asked as she looked over at Sakura who helped her to her feet. "I didn't even see you do hand seals?"
"Well I have a small Genjutsu that I learned that blurs the sight for a second or two," She said as she walked back to her spot. "In that second I can form the necessary hand seals with out you knowing."
"Wow," Shino said pushing up his glasses, truly impressed. "And the Teme called you weak."
"You ready for round two," Sakura asked with a slight blush. The other two nodded.
"Ok so the first thing you need to do is relax," Kiba said from his position next to the tree. "Akamaru had the same problem. Just let it happen, don't force it."
"Wow," Naruto said as he walked up two steps using Kiba's advice then his third rocketed him off the tree and into another. "DAMMIT IT ALL!"
"Close," Kiba said as he helped him to his feet. "Listen after we get this down I do have favor to ask."
"Sure," Naruto said as he rubbed his head. "If I get this down you can get what ever ya want."
"Well," Kiba asked as he looked around "I always wanted to learn to use a weapon. But with my clan's techniques I have trouble using anything. I want you to help me find a weapon that suits my style."
"That could be fun," Naruto said as he stood up and stretched. "I was only given one because we are an assassination and espionage squad. When we get back I can ask Anko-nee-san. If she isn't busy she will help."
"Cool," Kiba said as he fist pumped as Akamaru barked happily. "Lets get you up that stupid tree!"
Naruto and the others were eating around the dinner table each talking happily. Sasuke was sitting at the end staying out of converstion not looking over at them. Kakashi was flirting with Tsunami while Tazuna was drinking happily. Sakura and Hinata were in deep conversion on how her Byakugan can see the Genjutsu. Sakura wanted to find a way to stop that and Hinata was going to prover her wrong. It started a friendly rivalry between the two who were seen constantly training now. Shino looked over at Naruto who was eating quickly.
"Slow down Naruto," Shino whispered. "You're going to get sick."
"I can't," Naruto said as he took a big gulp from his water. "I have to get the tree walking down. I'm almost done."
"You're still on that dope," Sasuke said with a cocky laugh. "I finished it yesterday."
"Your point?" Naruto said raising an eyebrow. "Hinata and Sakura got it the first day, and Shino the day after. You beat the dead last by a day?"
"You still haven't done it," Sasuke said eyes narrowing.
"I will today," Naruto said with a smirk. "My flames of Youth are burning with the fire of several stars. I will succeed tonight."
"Whatever," Sasuke said scoffing a bit.
"Why do you even try?" Yelled a voice. Inari showed up and threw his little bitch fit which caused Naruto to raise his eyebrow. "Gato will just send someone stronger and kill you guys!"
"Quit Bitching!" Naruto said looking at him coldly. "I've been through too much to just lie down and die at the hands of some overgrown mummy. I will stop this man, then I will see to it that Gato is stopped. You have my word. I NEVER, go back on my word. So if all your going to do is sit around and cry about what has happened and refuse to not change what is happening...You can get out of my way and leave me to my own death."
Inari watched in aw as Naruto stood and walked out of the room. Inari was shaking in both anger and shock, he couldn't believe what he just heard. Kakashi put a hand on the young kid and gave him a slight eye smile.
"You have to understand one thing," Kakashi said to him. "He's had a very ruff childhood and he doesn't believe in no win situations. So when he sees people just lay down and take what ever happens next makes him extremely upset. You could learn a lot from him, but first you must learn to believe in yourself."
"Finally," Naruto shouted happily as he looked down at the ground from the top of the tree. "That will show the stupid teme!"
With that Naruto started to do his happy dance only to fall to extreme Chakra exhaustion and pass out. He was falling to the ground when he was caught out of the air by a Hinata. She stroked his forehead and checked if he was ok before she brought him back. Hinata was confronted by Kakashi who was smirking at her as she blushed.
"So you were," Kakashi asked looking at her with an eye smile. "Spying?"
"NO!" Hinata said looking at the wall. "I was merely practicing my espionage skills when Naruto passed out. I caught him and brought him back. But he did get it, just like he promised. He can climb the tree!"
"Very good," Kakashi said as he ruffed up the sleeping blondes hair. Naruto was wrapped in covers and snoring slightly. "Tomorrow will be a busy day, leave him to rest. I want you and Shino to stay out sight. They still don't know about you two yet, and we need to play that to our advantage."
"Where do you want us stationed?" Shino asked from his position leaning against the all, arms folded.
"Stay under the bridge till the fighting breaks out," Kakashi said as he motioned them out of the room. They walked to the table where Team Seven was waiting. "I will be joining Team Seven on the bridge. Sakura I want you to be glued to Tazuna, nothing is to happen to him. Kiba and Akamaru, you will be in charge of Team Seven after Kurenai and I engage Zabuza..."
"WHY HIM?" Sasuke yelled out smashing his fist into the wood table.
"Enough said," Shino commented pushing his glasses up a bit.
"You want to take this outside bug boy?" Sasuke asked. Shino gave a slight chuckle, but the buzzing of his kikaichu seemed show that he was indeed ticked.
"Oh," Shino said calmly. "You don't want that..."
"Sasuke," Kurenai said giving him a look. "Kiba's in charge."
"Next," Kakashi said as he looked at them. "He will be using the Mist technique he used last time. That is why Kiba will be telling you where he will be attacking from. Hinata and Shino will jump in as soon as you guys engage his partner. She will more than likely attack you guys using the Mist. Hinata you will intercept her before she gets close to Tazuna. Kiba, as soon as that happens you and Sasuke will be allowed to help. Shino you will be in charge as soon as you make yourself known. Stay just in range of both battles. I want you to be able to assist either company in a moments notice. Everyone ready?"
"Yes Kakashi-sensei," They coursed as Sasuke 'Hn'
The next day Naruto awoke with a groan. He was extremely sore as he stretched his neck. He looked around the room that he shared with Shino and noticed that he was gone. Naruto yelped. He over slept again! Naruto ran around the room putting on his clothes and picked up his headband. He jumped out the window and landed on the tree, sticking the landing. With a smirk Naruto took off into the woods towards the bridge. He couldn't believe that he was running late, and that they wouldn't wake him.
"What the?" Naruto asked as he looked down. There was a large puddle of blood and a slayed boar a few feet away. Naruto landed and checked it out. The cuts were not made by any hunting tools and he could tell that it was killed for fun. Naruto turned back towards Tanuza's house and sighed. "Shit!"
"Now we don't need both of them do we?" Asked one of the thugs. He had his blade resting on Inari's throat.
"IF YOU KILL HIM I WILL..." Tsunami started to say only to disappear.
The Two thugs Gawked at that and turned to see Inari stare back at them. Then Inari smirked and exploded. The two Thugs were launched outside where they landed next to Three Naruto clones. The thugs, moving slowly from the extreme burns and cuts, got into a fighting stance. The first Naruto clone jumped forward exploding in a flash bang. Disoriented and blinded ,the two thugs didn't see the other two clones flank them. The two clones grabbed hold of them in a strong hold and smirked.
"You should never have threatened anyone precious to me," Naruto said as he walked out of the tree line. Naruto then appeared in front of them slashing quickly across the stomach and jumping back as the clones exploded. Inari came out of the tree line with Tsunami who were both smiling.
"Thank you Naru-kun," Tsunami said, Somehow Hinata told her of his favorite nickname and it stuck. "You saved us!"
"The Hero in the story always shows up just in time," Naruto said giving his Nice Guy Poise. Inari walked up to him crying. "I wasn't strong enough!"
"You did great!" Naruto said putting a hand on his shoulder. "You gave me the perfect distraction, just like we planed."
"Wha..." Inari said wiping his tears.
"Now I have to get to the bridge and save the day!" Naruto said with a smirk. Inari looked back at his mom who smiled down at him. Inari ran off catching his mom by surprise.
"I HAVE TO GET THE TROOPS TOGETHER!" Inari yelled back. "TODAY WE TAKE BACK WAVE!"
Hinata dodged another barrage from the Ice Mistress as she continued to move forward hoping to strike her with her Junken. Haku lept back only to half to dodge another attack from Kiba as he came barreling by. Kiba stopped his Fang over Fang and stopped next to Hinata who was panting. Sasuke launched a huge fire ball which caused Haku to leap high in the air. She flashed through hand signs launching a barrage of ice needles towards them. They lept back and into a tight formation with Kiba in the front.
"Sasuke," Kiba said sternly as Sasuke flashed through hand signs of his own and Haku stumbled backwards before shaking her head. She looked up, but it was too late and Hinata was already in range as she started to slash out with her Tanto. Haku thinking quickly made an ice sword and countered her and stabbed it into her gut. Hinata cried out then was silenced as Haku kicked her aside. Sasuke was next to attack as Kiba got Hinata back to Shino.
"SHINO," Kiba yelled as he dropped Hinata into his arms. "She took a stab wound to her stomach. Get her to Sakura, see if she can heal any of it. I will hold this Ice bitch off."
"Right," Shino answered as he jumped back. Akamaru yelped as he was kicked out of his man beast clone and slid to a stop in front of Kiba who cursed slightly. This was going to suck.
"You two have proven truly troublesome," Haku said from behind her mask. Kiba spat blood on the floor as he picked himself up. Akamaru was back with Shino, and most of his Jutsu's were used in combination with him. Sasuke looked down at him with a disgusted stare.
"You call yourself strong?" Sasuke asked as he looked at Kiba. "Get up!"
"You treat your teammate like that?" Asked Haku. "You are not at all what I thought Kohona Shonbi are like. No matter, give up now. I do not wish to kill you."
"Like you could," Sasuke said getting into his stance. Kiba looked crossly at him before getting into his.
"We will not let you harm Tanuza," Kiba said his mouth dripping blood and a small bit coming down from his forehead. "I will gladly lay down my life to protect him!"
"That's more like the Shonbi I know," She said lowering her head. "That just makes this harder."
"This isn't good," Kiba said as they were surrounded by Ice mirrors.
Haku appeared in everyone and pulled out a hand full of senbon needless. It all happened too quickly, the dome was filled with the deadly projectiles and Kiba and Sasuke barely had time to dodge. Kiba took a couple in his shoulder and back while Sasuke was able to deflect most. Kiba looked back at Sasuke who flashed through hand signs and launched a giant fire ball at the mirror. The ending result was Haku standing the mirror untouched. Sasuke gawked a bit and was caught off his guard as another barrage of senbon filled the dome. Kiba reacted and threw the Uchiha aside taking several hits from the Senbon. Kiba snarled towards the figure in the mirror who looked taken aback. Ripping off his jacket, the Senbon needles fell to the floor. Blood lined his entire body from several hits and slowly dripped to the floor.
"You," Kiba said looking over at Sasuke who's eyes narrowed as Kiba fell to one knee, bloodloss taking its effect. Kiba coughed and spat on the ground again. "You...never hesitate...shinobi know better than that!"
"I..."Sauske said as he stood up and his eyes harden. "You fool. I'm an Uchiha! An Elite! I don't need help from trash like you!"
"That so called trash," Haku said shaking her head. "Saved your life."
"I WAS FINE!" Sasuke said as he looked at her. Kiba just fell to the floor with a thud.
"Sure teme," Kiba said as he struggled to get up.
"Don't try it Kiba," Said a new voice. Appearing in the dome Naruto knelled down and picked up the bloody Kiba. Naruto's aura was giving off a soft red hue.
"I might get your new clothes a bit dirty," Kiba said giving him a bloody smile. Naruto returned the smirk and threw him over his shoulder. Kiba grunted in pain as he was adjusted.
"Don't worry," Naruto said seriously. "I will be sure to give you the bill once I get it dry cleaned."
"Hehe," Kiba said as they 'Bamfed' away. Naruto appeared next to Shino who took Kiba off his hands. Shino looked back at Naruto who had a dark look.
"Naruto," Shino said as he positioned the now passed out Kiba on his shoulder. "Hinata..."
"I know," Naruto's face darkened and a flare of red came over him. His anger was slowly building.
"I will let you know about her condition as soon as I return," Shino said as he turned away with Kiba. "Save some for me..."
"Can't promise anything," Naruto said his eyes glowing silver.
Naruto appeared back in the dome and watched as Sasuke started to deflect all the senbon thrown at him. Sasuke had an unbelievable smirk on his face. His eyes had become different and Naruto knew what it was. He revived his bloodline within himself. Sasuke was now a true Uchiha and he was going to be even more of a problem. Sasuke looked back at him as his eyes showed the tome in each eye.
"See what true power is Naruto!" Sasuke asked as he crossed his arms. "Sharingan!"
Naruto just huffed his annoyance as he appeared in front of him causing Sasuke's eyes to widen. Sasuke still couldn't track his movements. Anger seemed to emit from the raven haired boy. Naruto still had a serious look as he grabbed him by the collar. Sasuke looked down shocked as they were both 'Bamfed' out of the dome and Naruto was holding Sasuke over the water at the side of the bridge. Sasuke grabbed the blondes arm and tried to escape his grasp.
"IF," Naruto said slowly then he calmed himself down a bit. "You are the fool, Kiba sacrificed himself for you. What do you do in return? You spit in his face and say it was his fault. You're...Whatever."
Naruto dropped the screaming raven haired boy into the water and turned back towards the Ice dome. He 'Bamfed' back inside. Standing in the middle of the Ice Dome Naruto slowly pulled out his tonfas. Haku appeared in the mirror in front of him and stepped out.
"This will be our final meeting," Haku said solmely. "Only one will leave this Dome alive. I hope you can understand."
"You almost killed Kiba," Naruto said ignoring her. His anger boiling and his skin started to glow. His silver eyes boring into her with intensity. "Hinata-hime..."
It was like a light switch was hit, and the Naruto that Haku met the day in the clearing was gone, in his place as what could only be described a nightmarish monster. Haku never felt such killing intent in her life. She jumped back into her mirror and watched as Naruto lowered himself to all fours, dropping his Tonfas on the ground with a slight clang. Naruto's face was darkened and his whisker marks on his face deepened. Naruto looked up and in a flash he ported right in front of the mirror. The explosion that followed knocked Haku back from her mirror. She looked around and noticed all the mirrors seemed to have exploded at once. Naruto was still in the middle with what looked like a slight tail of chakra growing out of him. Then his silver eyes widen, he flashed forward and Haku was punched square in the face, her mask shattering from the impact. As she flew backwards she was met by two clones that exploded launching her back towards the monstrosity that was now roaring with rage. Haku tried to put up a defensive shield of ice that was shattered by one fist. Naruto appeared next to her and exploded again but this time it was a flash-bang clone. Haku's eyes were blinded and she felt another powerful punch to her stomach and she flew into the open arms of another clone. Her vision coming back to her she saw Naruto standing right in front of her.
"I'm a broken tool," Haku said as she lowered her head. "I have no further use. Kill me."
"BROKEN TOOL!" Naruto yelled as he looked at her with a confused look.
"Zabuza has no further use of me," Haku said looking up at him. Her legs gave out and the clone picked her up bridal style but still locked her hands. Tears streamed down her face "He will no longer need me."
"WHY DO YOU BELIVE THAT?" Naruto yelled as he looked at her baffled. "You can't just give up, you have so much more to offer why would you waste it all for him."
"He took me in," Haku said looking up at him with tears. "He gave me a purpose and family. Now that I've failed to keep him out of harms way I am broken. Zabuza doesn't need a broken tool. He needs to be safe...Please Naruto-kun, kill me. I hurt your precious person...That is unforgivable."
"Fine," Naruto said as he raised his fist back his evil aura appearing again.
"NARUTO!" Yelled a voice from behind. Naruto turned to see Shino with his weapon out stabbing what looked like a thug in the side. "We are no longer fighting Zabuza and his partner."
"WHAT?" Naruto asked turning back to Haku with his fist shaking. "SHE HURT HINATA!"
"And she will be punished," Shino said as he twirled his saber and took out three thugs at once with an acrobatic move. "But Gato has just turned on Zabuza. Now we are to take out Gato at once."
"BUT..." Naruto said turning towards the shocked looking Haku who had tears falling to the floor.
"Plus," Shino said as he appeared next to Naruto and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Hinata is in stable condition. Kurenai and Sakura have her her now."
"So she will be alright?" Naruto asked as he slowly started to revert back to his normal self.
"Well," Shino said as he pushed his glasses up. "She's not out of the woods, we need to get her some serious medical treatment, but she's better."
"Naruto-kun," Said Haku looking up at him. "Zabuza has trained me in medical Jutsu, let me make up for my mistake."
"Shino take her to the others," Naruto said looking down at the enemy ninja. "I don't trust her so if she does anything...kill her on the spot."
"You have my word," Shino said as he grabbed Haku in his arms bridle style. Haku was extremely weak and broken, but if she as going to die she would die trying to right her wrongs. Haku looked up at the man holding her and couldn't help but blush a bit. She then refocused her self and turned towards the group that was gathering around young women on the floor.
Naruto turned back to where he saw Kakashi and Zabuza facing off against an army of thugs. Naruto appeared behind them and coughed a bit to gain their attention. Kakashi looked back as did Zabuza.
"So this is the the Jinchuriki," Zabuza said. He looked completely beat and had several cuts and one large gaping hole in his shoulder. "I have to say I'm impressed you brought down Haku, not many can."
"You turned her into a brainwashed weapon!" Naruto yelled not registering the first comment. "Tell me why I shouldn't kill you know, all she ever did was love you like a father. While you just use her to do your bidding and nothing more!"
"What's your name boy?" Asked Zabuza as he coughed up blood on his bandages around his mouth.
"Naruto Uzumaki," Naruto answered in a cold tone. Zabuza chuckled as he turned towards the group.
"Naruto Uzumaki," Repeated Zabuza. "You will do great things, I only wished we could have met on different terms. We could have been good friends."
"There's still a chance," Naruto said as he walked forward towards the mass of thugs. The preformed the shocking and out of know where was a thousand clones of Naruto. Zabuza was shocked and stumbled backwards on his but and looked at the blond haired kid. Kakahsi chuckled as he too sat down on the bridge. "We will finish our conversation later."
"Naruto," Kakashi said as he covered his eye. "Keep Gato alive if possible, I want to question him."
"YOU HEARD HIM BOYS," Naruto shouted. "EVERYONE IS FREE GAME EXCEPT GATO!"
"AND DON'T THINK YOU CAN HOG ALL THE GLORY!" Shouted a kids voice from behind. Naruto turned to see Inari and what looked like the entire village. Inari shot a single arrow into the group of thugs striking one of them before the rest of the village charged forward. "FOR WAVE!"
Hinata awoke with a groan as she looked around. She was back at her room in Tanuza house, only difference was the added company in her bed. Naruto was sleeping soundly next to her holding her hand. She smiled down at the blond as she brushed some of his longer blond locks out of his head. Naruto stirred and looked around. He was shocked to see Hinata up .
"HINATA!" Naruto yelled as he wrapped her in his arms. "I never want you to do that again!"
"Owe," Hinata said causing Naruto to lean back and look her over to make sure she's ok. Hinata blushed but stopped him. "I'm ok Naruto."
"Good," Naruto said as he got out of the bed. "Sorry for crashing next to you. Kinda got a bit tired waiting for you to wake up."
"How long was I out?" Hinata asked as she looked down at her bandages that were wrapped around her stomach.
"Two days," Naruto said sitting next to her on the bed. "Hinata I almost lost you, and I...kind of lost control of myself."
"What happened?" Hinata asked as she grabbed his hand. Naruto shook his head and looked up at her.
"I don't know," Naruto said as he scratched the back of his head. "I just know that Kakashi is bringing me to the Hokage as soon as we get back to Kohona."
"I hope everything will be ok," Hinata said sounding kind of worried. Naruto waved her off.
"It's fine they just have to show me something he said," Naruto said. "I do have something I want to give you before we go down and see the others."
"Really what is it?" Hinata asked tilting her head to the side. Naruto searched his pockets muttering 'Where is it?' before he looked up at her.
"Oh here it is," Naruto said as he leaned in quickly and gave her a small peck on her cheek. Hinata 'Epped', flushed blood red, and then proceed to pass out on her bed. "Ha still got it!"
"Well it seems that all is in order," Kakashi said as he, Kurenai, and both teams stood on the bridge. "Gato's dead, and now you guys are going to be extremely busy with all the new business. Well then, we shall be in touch."
"Yes try to stay in touch," Tazuna said with a smile stepping in between Kakashi and his daughter. "But not too much."
"Zabuza-san," Naruto said as he looked up at the bandaged sword wielder. He had his arm in a sling and still had bruising around his face. "I can't say it was a pleasure."
"Feelings a bit mutual," Zabuza said as he extend his hand. Naruto shook it and Zabuza pulled him into a sort of hug, but whispered into his ear. "I want you to take good care of Haku. She's all I got. She doesn't know she's leaving with you yet."
"I promise to take care of her just like family," Naruto said with a smirk. "As long as you stop by and teach me some of your bad ass assassination techniques."
"Deal," Zabuza said. "But I have to fix things in Mist first. Once done you will regret you ever muttered those words."
"Bring it on Band-aid boy," Naruto said loudly as he jumped out of his grasp.
"I HATE YOU!" Yelled Zabuza as Haku walked forward and bowed to the group.
"It will be nice to see you all again," Haku said her eyes darting to Shino then back to the rest of the group. "I hope..."
"You wont have to hope for anything," Zabuza said putting a hand on her shoulder. "You will be going to Kohona where they can protect you. I will be back as soon as I can, but till then I leave you with Naruto-kun. He has agreed to take you in as family."
"You serious?" Haku asked a bit out of character. Her eyes tearing up which caused Zabuza to wipe his own eye. "Thank you otosan."
Haku walked over to the Teams and stood between Naruto and Shino. Sasuke was till fuming that the blond dropped him off the bridge and was standing way off to the side sulking not even caring about good byes. Kakashi turned and started to walk with a quick wave over his shoulder followed by Kurenai and her team. Naruto was talking to Inari while his team slowly started to walk off with Haku in tow.
"Well now that the water works are done," Said Tazuna but was silenced as Naruto and Inari started to cry 'Happy Tears'. "Ugh, get going now!"
"Hehe," Tsunami said as she closed her orange book that Kakashi and Naruto got her addicted to. "So what are you going to be Naming the bridge?"
"How about the Great Naruto Bridge?" Inari asked looking up. His grandfather could only nod.
"Perfect," Tazuna said as he took a sip of his sake. "My master piece is named after a fishcake. It will do I guess."
Hello Everyone,
Well once again, thanks for the reviews. I hope we all had a great New Years, i know i did...from what i can remember. I kept them alive, i know...sorry to those who like to follow the cannon of things but i couldn't get ride of a Zabuza, cause he's a bad ass, and its a packaged deal so i kept Haku as well. Next up, the home coming. I want everyone to get to see the new addition as well as the Exams.
But until then, please Read, Review and Enjoy!
Thanks again,
Take-It-Easy
PS: GOOOOOO HEAT! Sorry, i had to get that out there. They kicking ass this season :D!