Act 1 Wave arc
Chapter 14 The hero of wave show your courage until the end
Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto but I wish I was Massashi Kishimoto because that way I will own Naruto.
'' this means thoughts
Bold letters inner Sakura
Italics are flashbacks
(Location: at the bridge wave country water country territory)
The people were working hard on the bridge while others were probably not giving too much effort in it. Tazuna was in charge of the construction team giving orders and helping his co workers. Not too far from the old bridge builder stood Genjuro with Naruto and Sasuke who were doing their job in protecting Tazuna. They know the mission wasn't over because they know that the missing nin Momochi Zabuza was alive and well. Eventually the former mist swordsman will come after the bridge builder again and they will be ready for him. Of course they suspected that next time he will not be alone bringing reinforcements or allies to help him. Genjuro has given orders to his students that they were going to guard Tazuna during the construction of the bridge on different days. One day it will be Sakura and Akeshi and another day will be Naruto and Sasuke. Today it was Naruto and Sasuke who were guarding the old bridge builder.
Genjuro was quiet watching the place around while keeping his eyes on Tazuna. He still couldn't believe that Zabuza will go as low as becoming a missing nin someone who used to be his comrade back when they were members of the seven swordsman of the mist. He didn't had a deep friendship with him but they help each other out every once in a while they were more like partners in battle. But that was all in the past Zabuza was now a criminal and he's working for the mad man crime lord Gato who wants to kill Tazuna and destroy the wave country's last sign of hope which it's the bridge that he's building. It was the only thing that will stop Gato's reign of terror over the sea port village. Basically wave country's well being future was in his hand and his team. Next time he meets Zabuza he was going to make sure to finish him for good no mistakes.
As for Naruto and Sasuke the two were still watching over Tazuna while looking at some of the workers. They didn't look at each other due to the fact that they didn't see eye to eye. They were after all rivals and they were currently neutral although Sasuke was feeling jealousy for the blond. He knew that Naruto was a threat to him in getting strong after all they were both being train by the same jounin which it gave the possibility that they were both equally match in terms of strength. He gave one quick glance at Naruto with a frown he didn't care how much he train or how much he sweats until he collapses from exhaustion. He was going to get stronger than the blond because he needed the strength in order to fulfill his lifelong goal and ambition. Revenge against his older brother and avenge his fallen clan and his parents.
'I won't lose to you dobe.'
Naruto took a quick glance at Sasuke before he went back to watch over Tazuna. He didn't how much training he had to go through he was going to get stronger than the Uchiha and beat him. He had a dream to fulfill and he needed to become the strongest of the strongest and the best of the best. He finally decided to think about something else than his rival with Sasuke as he gazed at the workers. He has noticed that there was something wrong among them their expressions weren't as what they expect from hard working workers. Some of them look upset while others were looking afraid they look like they wanted to give up.
"What's wrong with them?" the blond was still gazing at the uneasy workers.
Genjuro was well aware of their expressions for a while now before answering his student" I would assume that they are feeling scare."
"Scare?" asked Naruto.
"Because of Gato?" Sasuke added.
Genjuro nodded" as long as someone like Gato has control over wave in the economy they can't feel safe or even rest safely for the matter, remember that Tazuna-san and his bridge are the only thing that are stopping Gato from having his selfish ambition to continue any longer that's why he wants Tazuna-san dead."
"The workers that are helping Tazuna are afraid because they believe they will get kill by Gato for helping the man who is trying to stop him" Sasuke replied.
"That's correct Sasuke and that's why we're here to provide protection for Tazuna-san so he can complete bridge and make sure Gato is stopped for good."
"Right I'll beat anyone that comes after the old man I'll take on Zabuza and those mask hunter nins and beat them believe it!" Naruto shouted.
Sasuke snorted at his comment" oh please like you have a chance against an A rank missing nins and two hunters nin that are probably in Zabuza's level dobe."
Naruto growled at the Uchiha's comment giving him a glare" what was that teme you still think I'm a weak I'm stronger than I look!"
"Want to bet?" Sasuke glared back.
"That's enough you two!" Genjuro raised his voice as a warning making the two genins stopped their arguing.
"He started" Naruto muttered.
"Hn" replied the Uchiha.
"I don't want to hear anymore of your arguing while were in the mission are we clear?" the jounin gazed back at the two genins.
"Yes sensei" they both mumble in unison.
Genjuro sighed' these two are so hard to handle I don't think they will ever change.'
Suddenly two workers came straight at Tazuna who was nailing a couple of wood tiles with his hammer. The old bridge smiled seeing the two workers who are good friends with him and they have known each other and work together for years.
"Tazuna?" one of the the workers called to him.
"Sao and Higeki what is it?" asked Tazuna.
The one called Higeki sighed before looking back at him" we…we have to talk."
Tazuna noticed their expressions and their change of tone to one that define fear and sorrow, he already knew what it was all about" what's wrong you two?"
"Look Tazuna we know each other for years we have always enjoy working for you but….me and Higeki we can't continue helping you anymore" Sao said.
"What?!" said the shocked Tazuna.
"Were sorry Tazuna but we can't help you with the bridge project anymore" Higeki replied.
"But were almost finish with the bridge it will be done in a couple of weeks if we continue at this rate!" said the bridge builder.
"I'm sorry Tazuna but we quit we both have families and we care for them too much, we don't want to get killed because of the bridge we want to spend our time with our love ones you understand?" Sao said.
"Please don't do this you two you can't leave me you two are one of my best workers I can't continue with the bridge if you two quit now!" Tazuna said getting desperate.
"We are truly sorry Tazuna but were done here I understand that you're doing this for all us for the whole village. But let's face it you can't stand up to a criminal like Gato we already lost our hero because of him, for your sake Tazuna and your family please quit this foolish idea while you're still can" Higeki said.
Tazuna watched his two friends leaving before they hand over their hard hats and left the bridge construction site. He lowered his head feeling horrible he has just two of his best workers who were helping a lot with the construction of the bridge. He gathered some of his courage trying to forget what they told him and went back to his work.
Meanwhile Naruto has watched and heard the whole thing with anger in his cerulean eyes. He bailed his fists while glaring at the two workers he couldn't believe he heard such thing from them. He wasn't happy one bit with the way they abandoned Tazuna without feeling any shame for their actions.
"How dare they….how could they walked out on him like that can't they see that the bridge is the only thing that can save them from Gato?!"
"I know how you feel Naruto but there's nothing we can do the people fear Gato and they obviously don't want to get involve with him. They believe that running away can solve their problem" Genjuro replied.
"But running away isn't the answer it is never the answer, it will only make things worse. Do they really want to continue living in fear from Gato like scare rats?!"
"Gato will most likely go after them and hurt them if they went against him or worst" Sasuke said understanding the blonds' point.
"I have mentioned before arriving here the people of wave country don't have a ninja defense system and that's why they will fear the first person that comes posing as a threat to their village. Without any ninjas or mercenaries to protect them they easily get scare and fall prey to the threat. These people aren't warriors they're just civilians who only attend to their jobs the same with carpenters like Tazuna-san and fishermen" Genjuro said.
"Even if they're not warriors they should be able to do something they should be using their words and their courage to try and stand up to Gato!" Naruto said.
"And then what dobe compare to the people Gato can hire like thugs and bandits the people will surely get kill by them?" Sasuke replied.
"And with a missing nin like Zabuza at Gato's disposal that is highly true" Genjuro added thinking about the former mist swordsman.
The blond genin growled" but still they can't let themselves get control by him if they believe in freedom and in their village they should find a way to stop Gato. Tazuna is one of those people who are trying to make a change and stop him by building the bridge…."
"It seems fear for Gato is stronger than believing in one man's dream" Genjuro said gazing at Tazuna.
"I won't give up no matter what I will fight until the end believe it" Naruto replied.
Genjuro smiled at his comment watching over Tazuna while Sasuke didn't said a word. However a smirk was formed on the Uchiha's lips making sure Naruto and Genjuro didn't noticed. He went back to his serious emo attitude and continued to do his job watching over the bridge builder.
(Time skip: Tazuna's house)
Everyone was in the table of the dining room eating lunch. One thing Naruto has come to like in the mission was Tsunami's excellent cooking. The rest of the team actually agreed with him even Sakura asked the young woman to give her some of her recipes which she has agree to give her a couple along with some pointers. The real reason she wanted to cook some good food is because she secretly wanted to cook for Naruto. She blushed a little while inner Sakura gave a thumbs up before resuming with her food. Akeshi also found the food delicious and maybe she could learn to cook like Tsunami, unlike Sakura she only wanted to cook because eating was important to the body just like drinking water. Sasuke was just quiet enjoying his food but he mentally admitted that it was very good.
Genjuro was also enjoying the food and he was please he has never taste such a great meal in a while. He was well aware that Tsunami was staring at him dreamily waiting for his response. It was important for her to receive his compliment for a well done meal. The jounin knew Tsunami will get more attach to him if he complimented her but in his heart he was a gentlemen and it was important to him to always be polite and kind to a woman. Especially if she has taken her precious time to make such a good meal and she was taken care of them in the food department saving them money from buying food.
Tsunami smiled at everyone while expecting to hear Genjuro's opinion" how is it everyone?!"
"Delicious!" Naruto piped happily.
"Very good Tsunami-san" Sakura said.
"It's really good" Akeshi said smiling.
"Hn" Sasuke's replied.
"That's Uchiha's boy way of saying that the food is very good" Akeshi said with a smirk while Sasuke nodded.
"I'm glad everyone likes it" Tsunami replied with a smile before turning to Genjuro" well Genjuro-sama how is it?"
The jounin smiled at her which made Tsunami blushed" it's very good Tsunami-san I haven't had such a great meal in a long time" not that he was lying to her or anything but he was being honest.
The young woman smiled while blushing at the compliment she was feeling very proud to received a compliment about her food from an attractive man like Genjuro. She was going to make sure to continued cooking great meals for him as long as he stays during the period of the missions. Hopefully she will somehow convince him to stay a little longer after the mission to spend time with him. The mere thought made her giggle mentally while she ate her own plate and Genjuro was staring at her noticing her expression.
'She's giving me that look again not good she must be up to something.'
Tazuna sighed seeing an empty seat next to him someone was missing the meal" Tsunami called Inari again."
The young woman nodded before getting up from the table and leaving the dining room heading to the stairs of the house" Inari dear come on down lunch is already served!"
Tsunami returned to the table while everyone was happily enjoying the delicious meal she has made. Suddenly someone new entered the dining room and the leaf ninja's eyes turned to looked at the newcomer. It was a young boy around the age of eight with spiky style raven hair and dark eyes he was wearing a white hat with two blue lines on the top of the hat. A white shirt and a grey strappy with brown sandals, the young boy who was staring at the ninjas with a frown thinking that they were wasting his time coming here and protect them from Gato. The only one who wasn't paying attention to Inari's arrival was Naruto who was still enjoying his meal.
"Inari dear please sit down I will serve your meal now" Tsunami said.
"You must be Tazuna-san's grandson nice to meet you my name is Genjuro and this is my team were from the hidden leaf village of Konoha here to protect your grandfather so he can finish building his bridge" the jounin gave a smile at the young boy.
Inari glare at Genjuro and his team" why are you all here you shouldn't be here Gato will kill you all!!"
Everyone was startle by Inari's sudden outburst it really came out of nowhere, except for Naruto who was finishing his meal.
"Inari please just sit down and eat your meal" Tsunami said worried she knew it wasn't the first time her son has gotten like this before.
The young boy ignored his mother's comment not taking his eyes of the leaf ninjas" leave now before Gato kills you all!"
'Who the hell does this brat think he is to order us around?' thought Sasuke annoyed at Inari's behavior.
"Sorry kid" everyone turned to Naruto who finished his meal the blond looked at him" that won't be happening we have a mission and we won't be leaving until we fulfill it guarding your grandpa is our mission until he finish building the bridge so rest assure that he will be fine."
"You don't stand a chance against Gato he will kill you!" shouted Inari again he was still upset.
"Inari that's enough" Tazuna tried to calm his grandson.
"It's all right we can take on Gato with no problem so everything will be fine" Naruto replied coolly.
Inari was outrage at the blonds' cool attitude thinking that he was very strong" you think you can take on Gato that's impossible he will kill you there's nothing you can't do were all doom!"
The blond genin growled getting upset at his negative attitude" didn't you hear me I said that everything will be fine we'll handle it I can take on Gato with no problem so have some faith in us!"
"Naruto-kun…." Sakura said getting worry for her best friend.
'Uh oh Naruto is getting angry that's not good' thought Akeshi.
Inari wasn't going to give up he was now more upset than before" shut up what would you know you probably had it easy in life you never suffer having so many friends and family. I bet your parents must be so proud of you that you don't have to worry about….." he didn't finished because he saw Naruto banging the table with his fists obviously he got upset by his comment.
"Inari!" Tsunami was shocked at her son's horrible comment.
Sasuke physically flinched when he heard Inari's comment feeling anger entering his system. The only thing that came to his mind was the horrible night of the Uchiha massacre and Itachi's hateful words. Genjuro and Akeshi were aware of his reaction but they remain quiet knowing that it was a very delicate topic to the Uchiha. And it wasn't Sasuke who was affected by young boy words but Naruto as well Inari's comment have really triggered the blonds' anger. Sakura got more worried when she saw Naruto's expression she has never seen him so angry before it really scared her. She knew him too well she knew that he has spent a lonely childhood before Genjuro took him under his wing. But right now she didn't know what to do but she knew that things were about to get ugly she, the only thing she did was to try and calm down.
Inari was shocked seeing Naruto's reaction he tried to act brave but he failed miserably. He started trembling thinking that he should run away but he stood frozen in place there was nothing he could do. Both Tazuna and Tsunami stood worried about the whole thing they needed to do something before things start getting ugly.
Naruto glared at the young boy" listen to yourself whining like a coward the way you talk it's like you have lost hope for the people of this village! Have you lost hope in your grandfather too the one person who's trying hard to make a difference and save this village from Gato while here you are running your mouth that its hopeless and we should go home. You're pitiful acting so afraid yeah it's easy to say this is impossible we can't beat Gato without doing a single effort to stop him, instead you're here saying that it can't be done when you should be defending your village and protecting the people who lives in it as well as protecting your family your precious people!!"
"You think you had it bad kid you don't know nothing, you aren't the only one who had it hard in life. There are lots of people out there who has experienced a painful past or a hellish childhood that is nothing compare to whatever you have experienced. And yet they haven't given up to the hate and they are still fighting hard to earn a peaceful life full of happiness and people who acknowledge you. Those are the people that become precious to you and you fight hard to protect them no matter what!!"
"Naruto-kun that's enough!" Sakura tried to stop her friend from the verbal assault on Inari.
By now Inari had tears in his eyes falling endlessly while Naruto snorted at his action" yeah go ahead kid cry it won't do you any good crying won't stop Gato and help the people of this village. You should be brave and support your grandfather so that he continues building his bridge don't you want to become a hero in everyone's eyes or a coward?!"
Inari has finally had enough and left the house running while crying while the atmosphere around the dining room has become quiet. Genjuro was smiling mentally at Naruto's painful but realistic speech everything he said was true so he was proud that his student managed to knock some sense into the young boy. Sasuke was smirking at the blonds' hard words he was actually happy that Naruto chose to defend both of them when it comes to their hard past he knew that he was very lonely and he was an orphan before meeting Genjuro. Akeshi was also smirking feeling proud for her blond teammate he did the right thing in making Inari see the light of reason. Sakura sighed at her best friend's rude and mean attitude towards Inari even if inner Sakura was cheering at the blond for his well speech.
Genjuro gazed at the quiet Tazuna and Tsunami he could clearly see the sorrow in their eyes" I apologize for my student's rude behavior you could say that he doesn't like quitters" he gave a serious looked to Naruto who only gulp in return.
"No it's all right we understand but I apologize about Inari's behavior" Tazuna said.
Tsunami stood quiet holding the urge to cry knowing the reason for her son's change in attitude" Inari was never like this you can say that he stopped believing in hope, to him there's no such thing as heroes."
Naruto snorted" figures why he was running his mouth saying that we don't stand a chance against Gato and the only thing we can do is to run away he's really a coward."
Sakura had about enough she decided to take matters into her own hands to control the blond. She smacked his head causing Naruto to have a lump on his head while Sasuke was smirking at the sight and Akeshi laughed a little.
"Oww Sakura-chan!" whine the blond genin.
"Naruto-kun I said that's enough!" glared the pink haired genin.
"You had it coming dobe" Sasuke said.
"I agree either it was Sakura or sensei" Akeshi replied.
"Yes I was ready to lay down my law on you Naruto but thank you for doing it for me Sakura" Genjuro said smiling at the pink haired genin.
Sakura only giggle at the jounins comment while Naruto was rubbing head from the painful blow and the lump on his head was still throbbing.
Tazuna decided to interrupt the silly moment" anyway please don't blame Inari for his attitude you can't blame him he has a good reason why he's like this in the first place."
"I know that the people of wave are living in fear each day from Gato but that boy is acting like there's no salvation to the village at all, even if they were ninjas here to protect it from that criminal" Genjuro said.
"Like I said Inari has his reasons to stop believing in heroes" replied the bridge builder.
"What happened?" Akeshi finally asked because she was dying of curiosity.
Tazuna lowered his gaze before looking back at the group he was ready to talk" well…."
"Father please" Tsunami stopped him from talking any further.
"I know Tsunami but I have to I know you don't like hearing about the topic but it will only be for today" replied the bridge builder.
"We understand if it's too personal that you don't want to talk about it Tazuna-san so there's no need to tell us" Genjuro said.
"No it's all right I will tell you. The reason Inari's big change is because a while ago he lost someone very precious to him because of Gato."
Everyone was looking at Tazuna who was about to tell them the story while Naruto was paying more attention than the rest.
"Inari's father died before he was born he only had me and Tsunami to raise him. As Inari grew up he wasn't the kind of person to defend himself and a lot of the kids from the village tease him and mess with him. One day one of the kids overdid it as he pushed Inari from a pier Inari felt on the water and he was about to drown. He could have died but he was saved by Kaiza."
"Kaiza?" asked Sakura.
Tazuna nodded while Tsunami was quiet thinking about him" Kaiza was a fisherman a very good one he was also a brave person who never shown any fear no matter how drastic a situation becomes. When he saved Inari he instantly became attached to him and he has grown a big sense of trust in him."
Everyone was smiling at the story so far but Naruto was in deep thought while the bridge builder continue his story" eventually Kaiza came to us and we all became rather fond with him even my daughter who got together with him making Kaiza to take the roll of father figure to Inari. Inari already thought of Kaiza as a father so he didn't have a problem with it. We were living a peaceful life everything was well until…." Tazuna paused in deep thought while Tsunami was almost at the brink of tears.
"Until Gato arrived" Genjuro said with some anger in his blue eyes.
Tazuna nodded" when Gato came to wave he immediately took over the market taking control over our economy all of the products and foods income was going directly to him, he started exploiting our resources without any mercy. We had no choice but to obey him we weren't fighters but there were others who went up against him and didn't want him to continue with his evil ways, Kaiza was one of those men. He encouraged and reunited all of the villagers to form a resistance against Gato, Kaiza never gave up hope to free wave from that criminal the villagers started treating him like a hero as a symbol of wave's hope and eventually Inari looked up at him as one too."
The leaf ninjas were quiet because they already know what was going to happen next it was very predictable. Naruto was tightening his fist in anger not wanting to hear anymore he also knew the next thing that will happen at least he could understand some of Inari's pain.
Tazuna resumed his story with sorrow in his eyes along with his daughter Tsunami" then that day came. Kaiza and the villagers that were following him were caught by Gato with his money he hired strong bandits to do his dirty job. They killed the villagers who were loyal to Kaiza and Gato held a public execution for Kaiza in front of everyone from the village. It was Gato's way of showing them what would happen if they stand up against him. With Kaiza's death the people of wave gave up we lost the symbol of hope to our village the hero of wave was gone. The most horrible thing was that Inari was there present and he saw when Kaiza was killed before his very eyes."
Silence fell on the dining room it was so quiet that the only thing that was heard was the sound of the sea outside of the house. Genjuro was in deep thought the same with Sasuke and Akeshi. Sakura had a couple of tears falling from her jade eyes the same with Tsunami weeping over her lover's death remembering the horrible day. As for Naruto he was only gazing at the ground he wasn't crying he just stood quiet in deep thought.
Tazuna on the other hand decided to finish the story" when Kaiza died Inari lost hope in everything. He lost hope in the village and in everyone believing that there was nothing that could be done to stop Gato and save the village and he also lost hope in Kaiza. Even if he wasn't his real father Inari looked up at him as he was his real father he really loved him very much."
After that Naruto made a grunt and got off from the table leaving heading upstairs to his room where he was staying temporarily.
"Naruto-kun where are you going?" asked Sakura she was still worried about him.
"Leave him be Sakura he needs some time on his own to cool down and think for himself" Genjuro said.
Sakura nodded as she was still looking at the direction that Naruto took. She was still worried about him perhaps she will talk to him later.
"Sensei what are we going to do now?" Akeshi asked" our mission was supposed to protect Tazuna until we reached wave that means the mission is over."
The bridge builder nodded in agreement" she's right now that I'm back in my home it will be best if you return to Konoha your mission is finally over."
"What will happen to you and the people of this village if we leave?" asked Sasuke" you will continue to coward in fear from Gato and his thugs?"
"Sasuke's right we can't let this continue anymore what Gato is doing is wrong I'm not going back to Konoha without helping the people of wave!" Sakura said.
"Me too" Akeshi joined in.
"The same with me" replied Sasuke.
Genjuro chuckle at their team's attitude" well I am certain that Naruto will agree with the rest of the team too so I will also agree. Tazuna-san we will help you and the people of wave from Gato I assured you that everything will be fine."
"But I don't have any more money I only have enough to pay you for the mission" Tazuna said shocked.
"That will be all right this part of our services will be free of charge this is how the ninjas of Konoha treats its clients. We will resume our original mission in guarding you while you continue to build your bridge we only have to wait before Gato makes his move. No doubt Zabuza will return again and this time we will be ready" he gazed at his team and they nodded' besides I have an old score to settle with him I also need to ask him a very important question.'
"Thank you very much everyone" Tsunami said smiling feeling very grateful for them.
"Thank you all of you I am in your debt" Tazuna replied with a smile.
Genjuro nodded before he finished his meal and got up from the table" if you'll excuse me I have to talk to someone."
"But sensei you told me to let Naruto-kun be on his own" Sakura said.
"I wasn't talking about Naruto" he replied before leaving the house while everyone knew who he was talking about.
'Inari?' thought Tazuna.
Outside of the house Inari stood on a dock nearby staring at the water. The sun was shining it was a beautiful day on wave only it wasn't happy and peaceful in the village with Gato ruling the village like he was king. Tears started forming on his eyes before he began to cry again. He was remembering his stepfather Kaiza and the kind of person he was. He was always kind hearted and brave. Kaiza will always find a way to cheer him up and put a smile on his face. He remembers how he faced off against Gato. The villagers of wave cheered him on because he wasn't afraid he was brave and believe that the village can be saved from the mad man criminal. More tears were falling he could clearly remembered the tragic day he lost his beloved stepfather and hero. The day he stopped believing in him and hoped because Kaiza broke his promise to always protect the land and the village.
Inari was in tears as he was gazing from a steel fence in the plaza of the village. Gato was accompanied by a large group of thugs and bandits the thing that made him cry in endless was in agony it was of his stepfather. Kaiza was tied up while on his knees, the young man was full of wounds with a lot of blood around his body. It became worst as two bandits went to him and started beating him up punching him and kicking him. Inari screamed in agony while the rest of the people present were in tear while other we're also yelling to stop but the bandits completely ignored their demands. Gato finally made a gesture telling them to stop and they did he went to Kaiza injured body and kicked him in his stomach making coughed blood. Inari was still crying watching his stepfather being beat to a bloody pulp he couldn't watch it anymore it was too painful.
Gato finally addressed to the entire villagers" people of wave know this very well that I am the one that rules over all of you and you will all obey me whether you like it or not otherwise" he snapped his fingers and one of the bandits unsheathed his katana pointing it to Kaiza's neck while the villagers gasped along with Inari.
Gato gave an evil grin while gazing at the fishermen" you will all suffer the same consequences as you're so called hero of wave here!"
Kaiza slowly raised his head and he was able to see his step son Inari looking at him with his face full of tears. The young man did the only thing he could to his step son he gave him a weak smile while Inari was still trying crying.
'Why….why are you smiling….you were supposed to protect everyone….you promised me you will protect the land why did you broke your promise why!!!' thought the sobbing boy.
Gato gazed at the bandit that had his katana to Kaiza's neck he signaled him with a nod and the bandit grinned. He stabbed his katana on Kaiza's neck killing him instantly everyone cried while other screamed for the death of their beloved hero. And as the people cried in anguish and sorrow they lost their will and hope. Their hero was death and there was nothing they could do but to obeyed the criminal in front of them.
Inari fell on his knees watching the body of his stepfather with a pool of his own blood' NNNNOOOOOOO!!!' he was now sobbing uncontrollably.
Gato gazed at the crowd once again" let that be warning to all of you who tries to defy me or you will die just like him. Remember who owns you all!"
Inari continued to cry' you left me you left everyone and you broke your promise to protect everyone….'
"Are you all right?"
Inari gasped looking behind him he saw Genjuro looking at him with a lot of concern in his eyes" are you feeling all right Inari?"
The young boy shook his head while drying his tears while the jounin went next to him gazing at the water" don't let Naruto get to you he has his reasons for being upset with you."
Inari didn't answered he just continued to stare at the water while in truth he didn't like the blond ninja.
"Tazuna-san told me what happened to your stepfather."
Inari gasped but kept quiet as more tears were falling from his eyes Genjuro put a hand on his shoulder" Inari you have been through a lot of pain by losing someone important and precious like him but you aren't the only one who has had it tough in life."
Inari frowned at his comment" you're starting to talk just like him."
Genjuro smiled" him…you must be talking about Naruto yes I guess I did but he has had it worst than you in life Inari."
"What?" the young boy said.
"Naruto used to be an orphan he never knew who were his parents and in Konoha let's just say that the people didn't like him they started acting hostile towards him" the jounin replied of course he wasn't going to mention to him about the Kyuubi.
"Naruto was always alone and he never had any friends he used to get in trouble and get beat up by the villagers. There were times that he did the same thing you're doing right now Inari….he cry…"
Inari dried his tears while gazing at the jounin" but how he was acting all tough and brave like he didn't care what would happen to him if Gato catches him?"
"We all have a limit Inari Naruto finally got tire of crying and started hiding his pain so no one finds out that he's really hurting on the inside and he started training to become strong. Now he fights for the people he held as his precious people and he has a dream to become Hokage so everyone in Konoha acknowledges him and respects him."
Inari gazed back at the water thinking about the blond" you said he used to be an orphan?"
Genjuro smiled" I did because I took him in he's living with me he's my family along with my other students and I care very much for them."
"So he's like your son?" asked the young boy thinking about his stepfather.
"Yes I see all of them as my children like they were my own" the jounin got one knee to match Inari's height" but the point is Inari that Naruto has had it worst than you and he hasn't even thought about giving up in his dream to become Hokage I have heard people saying that he will never become Hokage that his dream is impossible. That only motivates Naruto to try harder and convince them otherwise, but if you give up then it's all over that's what you're doing in giving in to Gato."
"But what can I do I'm just a kid?"
"That's merely an excuse they are plenty of things you can do, you can start by standing up to Gato."
"But if I do that he will kill me!"
"Not if you rally your supporters you have to convince everyone in the village to stand up to him just like you stepfather once did I think it's more appropriate than a son follows in his father's footsteps don't you think?"
"I guess….but I'm afraid…"
"Inari I'm sure Kaiza had a lot of faith in you he must have believed in you a lot just like you believe in him too."
"That's what I want to believe but when he was…."tears were forming on Inari's eyes again" before he was killed he looked at me and smiled at me I don't know why he do that, it angers me so much because I think he was happy that he abandoned the promise he made to me to always protect the land and everyone!"
Genjuro smiled at him again" Inari you're wrong when he smiled at you it wasn't because he was happy that he broke his promise to you it's because he was going to die for the village."
"What?!" Inari was shocked.
"He was happy because he was going to die for the sake of his village and everyone just like a ninja is happy to die for the sake of his home village. Kaiza tried everything he could and fought hard to save the people of wave and that's why he smiled before he died, I think he would have preferred dying protecting the village than dying without doing nothing at all."
Inari was shocked at the revelation his eyes were wide before tears were forming once again at the corner of his eyes" then he….he wasn't happy because he failed to keep his promise."
"Kaiza would have wanted you to protect wave just like he did after all don't you want to protect Tazuna-san and Tsunami-san?"
Tears were falling as the young boy nodded" I really want to….I really want to protect everyone but I don't know how."
"Like I told you before you can start by standing up to Gato and you're not alone because I'm with you and my team Naruto as well" Genjuro replied.
Inari nodded with a smile" thank you…"
"Don't mention it let's go back."
"Okay."
(Location: cabin a few miles from wave country water country territory)
Zabuza was resting on a bed he was still feeling the effect from the paralysis death state thanks to Haku in order to save him from Genjuro and his team. The former mist swordsman has been trying to get some rest but he couldn't he's been having a lot on his mind lately. He couldn't believe that he was about to lose the fight Genjuro was about to kill him if it wasn't for Haku to arrived in the nick of time. Then there was his team they were stronger than average genins taking down his water clones like they were nothing. He had to swallow his pride and face the truth that he never stood a chance on his own to take the team from Konoha on. He gazed to his right and saw Kimimaro who was staring in the window he was probably checking for any visitors or approaching enemies. Haku came to him holding a medical kit and as usually the teen just smiled warmly at his teacher and mentor.
"Zabuza-sama has your wounds healed yet?"
"I'm not feeling so hurt the rest have done its job."
Haku nodded" you're not hurt anymore er…..down there?"
The missing nin growled remembering the horrible pain he felt on his crotch because of a certain blond ninja" the pain from the weggy that smart ass brat gave me is gone."
"That's good to hear at least you're finally healed however the effect from the death state paralysis still remains, you will be unable to move for the rest of the week."
Zabuza stood quiet staring at the ceiling of the room he couldn't get his battle with Genjuro out of his mind' damn him….damn you Genjuro after all this time you're still as strong as ever. Next time we meet I will make sure you never lift a sword ever again.'
"We have company" Kimimaro said watching the visitors entering the cabin from the window.
Haku's eyes hardened knowing who was the person that was visiting them, he didn't like him one bit. Zabuza was calm on his bed when the door to the room opened and Gato entered accompanied with two bandits. The business man only grinned seeing the missing nin so helpless in bed while he was ignoring the glares from both Haku and Kimimaro they both didn't trust him.
"You know I would have understood about the demon brothers failing on their job to kill the bridge builder but I wasn't expecting someone like you to failed Zabuza. It's very amusing to find out that you got beaten by a bunch kids" Gato said.
Zabuza growled his gaze meeting the criminal" among those kids was Genjuro and he has trained those genins making them hard to deal with, I clearly underestimate them."
"You seem to know one of them" asked Gato.
"Genjuro was a member of the seven swordsmen of the mist like myself we know each other for a while. The guy isn't someone you will like to have as an opponent so I had my work cut out with him and his genin team."
"Well if you're not up to the task in killing the bridge builder then I have no further use for someone like you, considering the amount of money I have paid you to get the job done. Looks like you're not up to the challenge."
Zabuza glared at him" I assured you Gato that bridge builder will die I have promised."
"It's hard for me to believe that when you're resting in a bed just look at you I bet you can barely move" Gato went closer to Zabuza he was about to touched him when his left hand was being squeeze hard making him flinched in pain" what the hell?!"
Haku gave the man a death glare tightening his hold on Gato's hand his gaze was completely different from his usual kind expressions" don't you dare lay a finger on Zabuza-sama or I will kill you."
The two bandits immediately reacted seeing their boss in trouble they unsheathed their katanas before Kimimaro got in front of them holding a kunai he was giving them a cold glare" if you take one more step you will regret it with your lives."
The two bandits started trembling from Kimimaro's glare they have thought that made a mistake in trying to attacked them.
"Haku Kimimaro that's enough!" Zabuza said stopping the two teens.
They both nodded before they returned to their original positions. Kimimaro went back to the window while Haku let go from crushing Gato's hand. He went back to stay next to the bed where the missing nin lay.
Gato was rubbing his hand feeling the pain while glaring at Haku but the was ignoring him he gazed at the two swordsman who were still attack position with their katanas" stand down you two!"
The bandits nodded before they sheathed their swords. Gato could feel the tension in the room and although Haku and Kimimaro have stopped their upcoming assault they looked like they wanted to finish what they started.
Gato chuckle feeling a little nervous " it seems we have gotten to a bad start Zabuza. I understand that you must be feeling uncomfortable with fulfilling the job since you know that it won't be easy to kill the bridge builder, you need some motivation."
"Motivation?" asked the missing nin.
Gato grinned while adjusting his sun glasses" I'm a man of business I know how the economy works and how to manage the capital I have my ways in earning money very quickly. However you are a man worth receiving a good amount of money, you are one of the hidden mists most dangerous missing nins with your experience as a mist swordsman. So let's negotiate shall we how about if I pay you double the original amount of money if you kill the bridge builder?" he grinned knowing that they couldn't resist such an offer.
All three of them were in shock at the proposal. Zabuza's eyes were wide as dinner plates the same with Haku and Kimimaro. At first they thought Gato was playing some sort of practical and sick joke on them. However looking into the business's man face they could tell he was being serious with the negotiation he has given them.
"Well Zabuza what do you say?"
The missing nin started laughing in amusement" you're going to pay me double for the job Gato it's not my place to say this but have you lost your mind?"
Gato just smirked at his question" it may look like I have but I'm not joking and I'm not lying to you I will pay you double, all I want is that you kill the bridge builder before he finishes building that bridge. My entire business future it's at stake if that bridge is build, well do you accept?"
"Of course I will accept your offer that bridge builder will die your negotiation has really help me a lot Gato."
The business man grinned" wonderful I'm glad we have solved our differences now when you killed that bridge builder bring his body to me. I will use his body to show it to the whole people of wave so they can witness the death of another so called hero who wants to help their beloved village crushing their spirits even more. They will have no choice but to summit to me for good let's get going"
The two bandits nodded as they opened the door leaving and Gato followed them shortly before gazing back at the missing nin" remember Zabuza no mistakes this time if you fail then the deal is off" he finally left the room closing the door behind him.
Kimimaro made sure that they have left the cabin so they can finally talk. He saw them leaving until they were finally far away.
"Haku Kimimaro as soon as I recover we will go to wave and kill the bridge builder for good and while we're at it we'll kill Genjuro and his team altogether" Zabuza said.
"I don't trust him" Haku replied while glaring thinking of Gato.
"I agree it's too good to be true that he's paying such a large amount of money he's up to something" Kimimaro said.
"He could be planning to turn his back on us" Haku replied.
Zabuza chuckle" and you two don't think I don't know that of course I'm well aware that Gato could be up to something. If he does plans to stab us in the back after we fulfill the job then I will stab his back before he gets the chance."
Haku started leaving heading to the door.
"Where are you going Haku?" asked Kimimaro.
"I'm going to change to picked up some medicinal herbs we may need them after the upcoming battle" he opened the door leaving.
"Always thinking ahead eh Haku?" Zabuza said with a chuckle.
"I will watch over you Zabuza-sama" Kimimaro said walking next to him.
"I don't need any protection" mumble the missing nin.
"You can't move your body at all leaving you defenseless for an enemy attack."
Zabuza didn't said a word as he tried to get some rest waiting for the death state paralysis to end so he can finally make his move and continue with his mission to kill Tazuna.
(At the bridge)
Tazuna was back at the bridge doing his job with the rest of the workers not letting the fact that he lost his two close friends and best workers Sao and Higeki. This time the ones who were staying on watch to protect Tazuna were Sasuke and Akeshi who Genjuro gave them the order to take turn to watch over the bridge builder. The two teens were watching over Tazuna keeping their eyes on him. Although a while it became very boring sitting doing nothing. Both teens were hoping that Zabuza would show up so they can break their boredom with some fighting. Akeshi didn't noticed the quick glance that Sasuke gave her while at the same time he didn't noticed the looked Akeshi gave him.
Akeshi finally gave a sigh feeling very bore" I wish Gato would show up with his thugs so we have something to kill the bore environment."
"Hn" replied the Uchiha.
"I hear you Uchiha boy I know it's our mission to watch over Tazuna but isn't there a way for us stop feeling bore while watching over him?"
"Maybe talking will help us from getting bore Gato doesn't seem to show up when we want to."
Akeshi smiled" talk that's okay I've wanted to ask you something for a while now."
Sasuke gazed at her with a raised eyebrow" what?"
"Why didn't you use your sharingan when we were fighting Zabuza?"
The Uchiha sighed in disappointment although it was topic he didn't want to discuss because it made him look weak and inferior. But somehow he felt like telling her he trusted her while Akeshi was staring at him expecting for an answer.
"I…I haven't unlocked my sharingan yet…"
The raven haired teen blinked at his statement" oh I see….I guess that makes sense you haven't awaken your bloodline yet any ideas how can you unlock it?"
"Believe me if I knew I would have awaken the shringan by now" he replied dryly.
"I guess that's true" she replied with a smile.
"I have been training so hard for a long time I eventually thought that I will be able to awake the sharingan if I can continue to train but so far that hasn't happen yet even with Genjuro sensei's training."
"Have you tried having perfect chakra control to unlock it?" asked the red highlights teen" in your case have you try controlling the exact amount of chakra into your eyes?"
"Don't' you think I have tried that already it hasn't work so far I seriously don't know when I will awaken my sharingan and yet….Itachi awakened his sharingan when he was only five and I'm twelve" he growled and his onyx eyes hardened in hatred thinking of his older brother.
Akeshi knew talking about Sasuke's past was taboo knowing how painful it was for him the same with talking about Itachi. She knew she had to change the topic before Sasuke gets too angry or completely uncomfortable.
"I know you will awake your sharingan Uchiha boy remember that you're not done with sensei's training once you get stronger than you are now I'm sure it won't be a problem to unlock your bloodline" she gave him a big smile.
Hearing that the Uchiha ease up a little he was no longer feeling upset and he has forgotten about the topic of his brother and the Uchiha massacre. He felt so much better hearing those words coming from the raven haired genin, no doubt that he needed to hear some words of encouragement.
"Akeshi….thank you…"
"Hey I'm being honest you have the potential to become into a very strong ninja" she replied before smirking evilly" now if you can get rid of your emo personality."
Sasuke sweat dropped while frowning" whatever…."
"I am being honest again."
"Hn"
"Ignoring me won't do you good" she smirked.
"By the way" Sasuke stare at her" since we're on the topic of bloodline limits how about if you tell me about your bloodline?"
"Huh what makes you think I have a bloodline?" asked Akeshi with smug grin.
"Akeshi I know about your past….the bloodline massacre…" his onyx eyes were staring deeply into her brown eyes feeling a little for talking about her tragic past.
The teen lowered her gazed while giving a sigh she really didn't wanted to remember he terrible past she only pay attention to the conversation" you got me Uchiha boy yeah its true I have a bloodline limit."
"What is it?" Sasuke was trying not to sound too curious or excited when in truth he was very curious to know what Akeshi's bloodline was.
Akeshi gave a very dramatic pause making it look like she was about to tell the Uchiha the biggest secret in the world making him more curious than ever" well….that's a secret!" she smiled sweetly.
"What?!" Sasuke face faulted getting annoyed at her comment he got back up frowning at her" what do you mean a secret?!"
"It means that I can't tell you yet."
"Why not I told you about the sharingan didn't I?!"
"No you didn't Uchiha boy I learned from the sharingan from back at the academy remember Iruka sensei when he was talking about the Uchiha clan and the sharingan?" she was grinning at him.
Sasuke blushed at his mistake while crossing his arms in annoyance" I think it's not fair that you know about my bloodline and I don't know about yours."
Akkeshi giggled while giving him a friendly punch on his shoulder" don't worry Uchiha boy you will find out eventually who knows maybe you will see my bloodline in action when we fight Zabuza again."
The Uchiha sighed' but I want to know now.'
(Village district wave country)
Genjuro was with Naruto and Sakura walking the streets of the village. They were assisting their teacher buying some groceries for Tsunami since Genjuro was so kindly to her the favor. However things were awkward walking the streets things weren't happy in the village. They gazed around and they could see how the village of wave has become a village full of poverty. Most of the villagers were wearing old clothes they look like they haven't been washed for a while. Some were living in the streets while others looked sick probably dying of hunger. Naruto and Sakura felt pity as they gazed at the poor villagers they have never seen so much poverty before. They have gotten used to live in a wealthy village like Konoha since it was one of the five countries largest of the hidden villages they have never see such heartbroken sight. For Naruto it reminded him of the days when he was living alone when he was an outcast and hated by the villagers. He didn't like the sight one bit it only made him angry that Gato was the one responsible for this.
"This is….horrible" Sakura said in a whisper watching a couple of children being with their mother on the street.
"It can't be helped I suppose these are the consequences for Gato's rule over wave" Genjuro said.
"Damn him who the hell does he think he is taking advantage of the people in this village, he steals away their way of living their money and their freedom he has no right. What he's done is just cruel and wrong these people they don't deserve any of this" Naruto said with a growl.
"I agree Naruto it really is terrible to watch these people living such a hard life and are just civilians not ninjas it makes the harder to stand up to this outrage" Sakura replied.
"Those who poses a threat to Gato are eliminated by him, don't forget that the people of wave have lost hope they no longer believe in themselves to do anything to stop Gato at all. They just let themselves be manipulated by him because they can't fight back" Genjuro said.
"I can't wait to beat Zabuza and Gato they will pay for this" Naruto said with anger.
"We'll do something about it I assure you" replied the jounin.
Sakura nodded then suddenly gasped in shock when she felt somebody grabbing her butt' what the hell I'm being grope…AH pervert!'
"Hell no I'll beat the living crap out of that pervert!" inner Sakura bailed her fists .
She glared as she turned around ready to bring down hell on the pervert when she saw a little girl trying to get to her bag of supplies.
"Whoa relax Sakura-chan I think she's looking for food" Naruto said hoping that his pink haired friend didn't hit the little girl by mistake.
Sakura finally smiled at the little girl" I'm sorry you must be hungry I think I have some food around here somewhere" she started looking through her bag.
Genjuro got one and took a piece of bread from the grocery bag" here you go make sure you share this with everyone in your family."
"Thank you mister" the little gladly took the large piece of bread before kindly bowing and leaving.
"This is an outrage how someone can be so cruel and let this people starve to death?!" Sakura said.
"People like Gato are selfish and are only interested in one thing only and that's money. They believe money is the only thing that can give them anything they desire little do they know that wealth isn't everything in this world. Having too much money corrupts the human mind the same with having too much power, it corrupts their hearts blinding them in darkness forever."
"After hearing that you've made me realize that money is evil sensei" Naruto replied.
"It's not really evil Naruto it depends how you spend it like giving it for charity for example as long as you aren't selfish with using the money it's all right" replied the jounin with smile.
"Yeah Naruto-kun money isn't really evil it's how you used, you're not doing wrong if you buy a birthday gift for your friend with the money you used or like buying someone's groceries" replied the pink haired genin.
"I guess but what about the bread you gave that little girl that was from Tsunami's groceries?" asked the blond.
"Not to worry I'm sure Tsunami-san won't mind, now Naruto Sakura you two know that in one week Zabuza will feel better from the death like state the hunter nin put him through. That means after that week he will come back after Tazuna I want you two to get some exercises."
"Right we'll get on it right away sensei!" Naruto said while Sakura nodded.
"I want you two to increase the chakra from your weights and start running around the forest not too far from this village you can climb trees if you wish to I will get the groceries to Tsunami-san and see you two later" Genjuro left the two genins.
(Time skip: evening)
Naruto and Sakura have given twenty laps around the forest with their chakra weights increase more than usually. So far the two teen were panting obviously they were feeling tire but they still had plenty energy in them. They were currently finishing another lap with Sakura gaining a lead on Naruto while Naruto was smirking in amusement. He was shocked when the pink haired kunoichi was running faster than him while Naruto was in shock trying to pass her and gain the lead again. Soon Sakura reached the whole lap as she started cheering in victory while the blond reached behind her and sighing.
"Well Naruto-kun looks like I win you know what that means?" she was smirking.
"I know I know I have to take you somewhere nice when we get back to Konoha" replied the down Naruto.
"Not just somewhere nice but you have to take me to eat too" Sakura was trying to erase the small blush on her cheeks.
The blond scratched the back of his head while giving his fox grin and blushing slightly" sure thing Sakura-chan!"
"It's getting dark maybe we should head back" Sakura said.
Naruto gazed at the nearby tree seeing that it was very tall and long he smirked" hey Sakura-chan how about we have a race first one to reach the top of this tree wins?"
"You mean climb the tree with our feet?" grin the pink haired genin.
"You bet!"
"All right but let's make it more interesting loser will have to pay the food when you take me out."
Naruto gasped remembering what he has in his toad wallet" um…I'm a little short on money right now."
"Too bad it's your fault for giving the suggestion to climb the tree in the first place, so are we going to do this or not?"
"You're on!"
The two ninjas started running climbing the tree using their feet concentrating on giving the right amount of chakra into their feet. Both of them gave a good start and they were equally fast. It was tough to climb the tall tree because it had a lot of branches making them hard for them to run faster. They had to jump out of the day to dodge the branches eventually their little race ended in an hour. There was no winner both Naruto and Sakura reached the top of the tree so it was a draw. They both at smiled at each other before they climb down doing another race. As they both landed on the ground it was another draw.
Naruto obviously fell to the ground from exhaustion from the hard exercises they have done four hours" man I am so tire I don't think I'll be able to get to Tazuna's house."
"Well you have to its already dark we need to head back now Genjuro sensei will get worry if we don't return" replied Sakura getting seated next to the tired blond.
"It's okay Sakura-chan sensei knows we can take care of ourselves he won't get worry."
"But still we have to get back to Tazuna's house...Naruto-kun Naruto-kun are you lis…" Sakura didn't finish because she saw that the blond has fallen asleep.
'I can't believe it that idiot fall asleep in the middle of the forest no way I'm carrying him back to Tazuna's house were a little far from that location. I am tire too maybe I should sleep here too…'
Sakura finally gave up she wasn't going to walked all the way to Tazuna's house so she decided to sleep on the ground too with her blond friend. She gazed at Naruto's sleeping form and blushed a little seeing how cute he looks when's he's sleeping. She smirked while giggling because an idea has popped in her head.
"I want to be next to Naruto-kun!" shouted inner Sakura.
She smiled before getting next close to him and she hold him on his waist. She snuggle closer to him while blushing she was so happy sleeping with the blond ninja. Pretty soon she closed her eyes and feel asleep too never noticing the big smile that appeared on Naruto's lips enjoying the extra warn.
To be continued
Well this chapter is finally done and I'm sorry for not updating this story in a while I've been busy writing my other stories. Anyway I read chapter 469 and well I like the fact that Sakura confessed her feelings for Naruto although it was act. Sakura was obviously acting however I do believe that her feelings for Naruto are true. Also god they chapter is being flame so badly by Naru/Hina and anti Sakura fans so much. I know we'll have an answer in the upcoming chapters. But I do know that this will be another Naru/Saku moment who knows maybe Naru/Saku might become canon before Christmas. Anyway please review and I will see you all next time.
Next chapter: Battle at the bridge part 1: Genjuro's resolve