Act 1: Wave arc
Chapter 15 Battle at the bridge part 1: Genjuro's resolve
Disclaimer: I don't own Naruto it belongs to Kishimoto-san now leave me alone already.
'' this means thoughts
Italics are flashbacks
Bold letters means inner Sakura speaking
(Location: forest region wave country water country territory)
Naruto slowly opened his eyes to find out that he was still in the forest where he was training, he remembered that he felt asleep last night from all the training he did. He felt something next to thing and blushed seeing the beautiful sleeping expression of his childhood friend and crush Sakura. The pink haired genin was sleeping soundly while smiling leaning closer to him, using the blond as a pillow. Having the pink haired pixie so close to him made him blushed hard, this was probably the first time Sakura has been so close to him. If he was a few more inches closer he would be able to reach her lips and steal a kiss it's been one of his dreams to kiss the pink haired kunoichis who stole his heart a long time ago, the same pink haired prankster who inspire him to become a prankster himself. He reached and caressed her bubblegum pink hair smiling at her the blush never left his cheeks she was truly beautiful, to him she was the most beautiful girl he has ever lay eyes on. He wanted to kiss her but stealing a kiss from her it didn't felt right, he wanted to kiss her if she was willing to kiss him back. He erased the thought for now and leaned his head looking at the morning sky he couldn't believe he and Sakura stayed all night long training. He gave a sigh thinking about his teammates and his teacher knowing about his temper.
'I hope sensei isn't angry because we stayed all night training….I don't want to see him angry again.'
He stopped his thinking hearing some rustle in the grass not too far from his location, he got up leaving Sakura to continue sleeping soundly. He walked ahead and he spotted someone picking up a couple of plants, he took a long look at the stranger. He saw a woman with long dark hair and brown eyes with holding a basket on her left arm she was wearing a pink yukata with flowers designs on it. The blond blushed because she was pretty and hated to admit that her beauty rivals Sakura's. He got a little closer seeing that she was smiling because a bird flew in her shoulder, she was smiling picking more plants. They finally met eye to eye Naruto stood still looking at her of course he didn't had a clue who was the woman that without knowing he has met her before. The woman who really wasn't a but he in the first place recognized him immediately he was none other than Haku.
He gazed at the blond with the cool looking ninja outfit and his leaf headband on his forehead' it's that ninja from Konoha again.... one of the few who were present when Zabuza-sama was about to get killed.'
Now Haku was clever and calm he wasn't going to freak out because his enemy has spotted him, obviously he knew he didn't recognized him due that he always wears his mask whenever he's in combat. He was wearing civilian's clothing and it was female clothing in order confuse suspects, Zabuza taught him about having an undercover disguise to fool anyone that might be a threat. Judging from Naruto's expression he didn't have a clue who he was so it was an advantage for him, it was best to play his role nicely and accurate.
He smiled at him" oh how are you I didn't saw you there?"
"I was here training before I saw you…" replied Naruto coolly.
"Training…yes I can see that you're a ninja but it's a little early in the morning to be doing such thing."
"I know but I was just resting from last night's training" the blond scratched the back of his head.
"You mean you spent the night here?" Haku was shocked" didn't you get cold?"
"Nah it's not like I had anything to keep me warm" he replied blushing thinking that he slept with Sakura holding him like he was her personal pillow" so what are you doing?"
The teen smiled resuming his work" I'm picking up some medical herbs for a friend of mine who got hurt he'll be fine though I'm just making sure I get plenty. You never know when you might need them."
"You can use the medical herbs to make medicine does that mean you're some kind of doctor?"
Haku remained calm gazing at him, the blond was just smiling at him but there was something about him' is he….does he knows…he seems to be getting suspicious of me.'
He kept his smile" I'm a doctor…"
"You seem a little young to be a doctor to me I mean you looked a little older than me, maybe two years older than me" replied Naruto.
Haku kept his smile' did he figure me out….his face I know very well that looks can be deceiving but he…'
"You're very observant. I am actually a doctor following my mother's footsteps she's helping become a full doctor…"
Naruto scratched the back of his head" oh I guess that makes sense why you're young hehe…sorry for asking so many questions."
"It's all right" the teen has finished gathering the necessary herbs" tell me….is there anyone precious to you?"
"Huh…precious?" the blond blinked.
Haku nodded" someone precious to you, someone you're willing to protect with your life for his or her safety."
Naruto was in deep thought thinking about his precious people. He smiled thinking about Iruka, Genjuro, Seiryu, Ryo, Akeshi. He was willing to protect them all, and then Sakura's picture came to his mind. He blushed his best friend since childhood his partner in crime when he became prankster, she was his most precious person. The mastermind of pranks who accepted him and didn't hate him like the villagers of Konoha he gave a fond smile. Haku noticed his expression it was honest and warm no doubt he had a good answer for his question.
The blond genin was still smiling" yeah….I have a precious person worth to protect I have others too."
"I see…then we have something in common. I also have someone very precious to me and I would do anything to protect him, there's someone else who is precious to me as well he's a good friend."
"I'm glad to hear that miss that's the reason I'm training. To become very strong and be able to protect m precious people, I would do anything for them…"
"Yes me too….I would do anything for my precious people because they mean everything to me…"
Sakura woke up with a small yawn she has slept peacefully and happily, she remembered last night. She felt asleep with Naruto after they were done with their training she blushed remembering that she felt asleep holding the blond like he was a pillow. She smile before she noticed that her blond friend wasn't with her she got up spotting him talking to someone, when she got to him she made a complete stop watching the person he was talking to. Immediately her jade eyes hardened glaring daggers at the girl at least that's what she thought since she looks like one, she was feeling an uncertain emotion. Seeing her blond friend and object of her affections talking to a girl that she hated to say looks prettier than her, it was making her blood boil. Naruto was smiling talking to her it was making her feel so jealous the only thing she was thinking was punching her and send her flying, it was a nice thought. She kept her glare at Haku giving a whole new meaning to the term if looks could kill resuming her walking before the two teens noticed her presence.
'Who is she…why is Naruto-kun smiling at her?'
"She better not be trying to take my Naruto-kun or I will play a very mean prank on her!"
"Oh Sakura-chan you're awake!?" Naruto smiled at her.
"Hey Naruto-kun…." The pink haired genin trailed off before she gave a forced smile hiding her anger turning to Haku" and who might you be…"
"She's…." Naruto cut her the teen off before blinking" hey what's your name you haven't introduced yourself?"
"I apologize but I really must get going….I don't want to keep friend waiting any longer" Haku replied before smiling at Naruto which only made Sakura feel more jealous glaring at him" I can see it in your eyes….when you have someone precious to protect you're destine to become strong for the sake of that precious person. I have a feeling you will become strong…." She walked away.
"Thanks I hope you're right" the blond smiled.
"Hmph…." Sakura was still staring at him with a frown' who does she think she is she didn't even told us her name….who was she?'
Haku stopped walking not looking at them" by the way….I'm a boy…" he continued walking leaving the two ninjas.
"What!?" Naruto was shocked his jaw hitting the ground.
"What!?" Sakura gave the same comical expression as her best friend.
"What the heck….he's a boy but he's prettier than me damn it!?" inner Sakura wasn't happy she started cursing a lot.
"No way that can't be!" Naruto was still shocked at the revelation" he's prettier than Sakura-chan…"
"What!!?" Sakura was now glaring at the blond with jade daggers" what did you just said Naruto!?"
The blond genin gulped seeing how angry she looked he took a step back" now Sakura-chan hold on I…I didn't mean it like that honest…"
"Then what do you meant…because I hear you loud and clear saying that boy is cuter than me!?"
"Sakura-chan don't get angry okay so it's true….he's prettier than you but he's a boy not a girl."
The pink haired kunoichi felt hurt heartbroken after hearing his opinion confirmed the second time, she felt like crying. But she wasn't going to show it not here, not now she was going to be strong before she heads back to Tazuna's house. These were the days she hated that her blond friend was so dense that he didn't realized her has hurt her feelings, he has always thought of her being pretty. To heard him say that a boy was prettier than her made her feel so insecure, and while it was always Naruto the one to give her self esteem a strong boost today he has gave it a low painful blow. She gazed at him who was now staring at her with such a concerned expression it was the kind of look that she couldn't stand seeing it will break her heart to gaze at him. Right now she was upset with him for his insensitive comment she decided to do the right thing, leaving.
"Sakura-chan…" Naruto started worried about her.
She growled" I don't want to talk to you since he's prettier than me you obviously like him. Go tell him you like him and while you're at it go marry him!"
Naruto turned pale he felt sick to his stomach" eww Sakura-chan…marry him that's not right."
She walked feeling frustrated by his comment but the blond went after her" Sakura-chan wait!"
"Leave me alone!"
WHAM!!!
She punched him sending him to the ground with a lump bigger than his head. Poor Naruto was knocked out silly hearing all kinds of noises. From birds, bells, he was even seeing stars. He tried to get up and go after his best friend but everything black and he felt unconscious. She finally left with tears forming at the corner of her eyes now she felt worst than before because she hit him, she didn't like hitting him she only did it by sheer impulse because of her anger and jealousy. She started running wanting to get away from everything and escape the problem she knew it wasn't going to help, nothing good comes from running away. Inner Sakura was feeling worst she was already sobbing for hitting the object of her affections the person she has strong feelings.
'What have I done….Naruto-kun?'
(Time skip)
(Location: Tazuna's house urban district wave country water country territory)
Akeshi left the house of the bridge builder after finishing preparing her gear she was going to need it. They will be heading back to the bridge to continue their mission although they were hoping that Gato will be planning something soon the crime lord hasn't given up in his attempts to have Tazuna out of the way, in order to have complete control of the village. To her Gato wasn't the big problem it was Zabuza along with the two mist hunter nins which they weren't really hunter nins but ninjas working for the missing nin. When they faced him once again it's going to become clear why this mission is considered an A rank, she didn't showed fear she has trained hard to become this strong. Next time they meet the missing nin from mist she was going to be ready, walking around the house she was surprised to see Sakura. She got worried when she saw that she was sobbing, she was seated at the border of a nearby pier. Something bad must have really happened that will make her cry she went to her still feeling worry, she got seated next to her the pink haired kunoichi hasn't noticed her yet.
"Sakura what's wrong?"
The pink haired genin turned to looked at her, Akeshi felt bad seeing her jade eyes were red for crying a lot" Akeshi…."
"What happened why are you crying?"
"It's kind of my fault that I'm crying…."
"Did something happen to Naruto?" the raven red highlights girl asked looking more worried than before.
"No nothing like that I….this morning when we wake up from last night's training. He was talking to another girl picking herbs but….he turned out to be a boy and Naruto-kun said he was prettier than me. I think he likes him…." Sakura let more of her tears fall.
Akeshi blinked in disbelief" what….seriously Naruto likes a boy….you're serious our Naruto!?"
She nodded" that comment he made that he was prettier than me he didn't realized how much it hurt my feelings…I just lost control I was so angry with him that I punched him, I told him to leave me alone…"
The raven haired girl was still too shock to believe the information she just heard' that's impossible Naruto is crazy about Sakura he….he would never even consider eww he is not a butt pirate…'
She shook her head erasing the horrible indecent thoughts turning to the teary eye pink haired teen" Sakura are you sure that he said he likes that boy?"
The pink haired bit her lip feeling guilty" well I kind of told him that while he was at it he should marry him and he told me that it wasn't right, he sounded disgusted."
Akeshi sighed in relief' I should it known there was no way Naruto is like that. He likes Sakura so much.'
"I knew it this was all just a little misunderstanding. Sakura Naruto doesn't like boys you jumped to conclusions too soon there must be a reason why he said that boy is prettier than you?"
She bit her lip again feeling horrible" well the boy looked awfully a lot like a girl, I mean his face is so pretty and his long hair….I guess Naruto-kun couldn't help it but say that compliment."
"You really think he's prettier than you?" Akeshi raised an eyebrow at her.
"I guess…." She replied softly.
"I really can't tell because I didn't saw how he looks like but I do know one thing. Naruto believes you're the prettiest girl in the whole world."
"I don't think so…." Sakura lowered her gaze.
"Now hold it what's with the negative attitude, you're not the old Sakura anymore. You're the strong kunoichi Sakura you're supposed to be full of confidence don't start thinking like that."
"I just don't think I'm pretty Akeshi. Look at me my hair is pink I have a wide forehead and….I'm a flat chest compare to you…"
The older genin sighed rubbing her forehead" Sakura your pink hair is pretty it makes you look unique than the rest of the girls you should be proud of it. Second you're only twelve your body hasn't developed yet, I'm older than you obviously my body has gone through the changes. Third so what if you have a wide forehead it goes well with your face, I'm sure Naruto doesn't have a problem with that I think he likes your forehead."
Sakura stood quiet listening to her friends words and she was right, she blushed thinking in the past a couple of months ago before taking the genin test.
"Sakura-chan you have a charming wide forehead it makes me want to kiss it…" Naruto's whole face was red like a tomato.
Sakura frowned" stop joking around like that Naruto-kun I don't like it when you say jokes like that" she was obviously blushing because she has always dreamed that he will be the one to said that compliment to her like he has read her mind.
"I'm not kidding Sakura-chan I mean it why would you think I will joke about that!?"
"Because…." She paused feeling her low self esteem kicking in.
"Sakura-chan you do have a nice forehead and didn't I told you that you should show it with pride?" he smiled at her" if everyone else tease you about your forehead then just ignored them because they are jealous, believed your forehead goes well with your cute face" he blushed slightly.
The pink haired was still blushing before grinning toughing his shoulder" tag you're it!"
"What the Sakura-chan that's not fait come back here!" he chased down the pink haired girl who was long gone by now."
She blushed" yeah….I guess you're right…"
"And finally" Akeshi resumed" why in the world are you interested in having these water balloons?!" she touched her developed C cup breasts.
She laughed at her comment" they're not water balloons they're breast."
"Whatever I don't like them I'm praying to Kami that my body doesn't continue to develop, I don't want to become a big chest kunoichi."
Sakura giggle at her comment" boys like girls with boobs."
"I don't care I don't want to attract boys, there's no one I'm interested in at all" she quickly erased the thought of a certain Uchiha.
"Akeshi you're weird" she replied with a smile.
"Maybe I am but you still like me."
Both girls laughed while the older genin got up putting her hands on her shoulder" hey I know exactly what you need a nice make over to get Naruto's attention what do you say?"
Sakura smiled at her even if Akeshi acted like a tomboy she could sometimes act very feminine" that would be nice but I have to apologize to Naruto-kun for what I did, I shouldn't have gotten angry at him in the first place."
"You couldn't help it you were obviously jealous it happens to a lot of girls and boys. You can apologize to him when he sees you in your new makeover look, so what do you want?"
"I don't know" she shyly replied.
"Oh I got it, how about if I cut your hair?"
The pink haired genin touched her long pink hair reaching to her back" I guess that will be fine…I have been thinking in cutting it. The long hair can get in the way when we're in combat and I don't feel like having it tied on a pony tail or in braids."
"Good then it's settle I will give you a nice cut!"
"I want to have my hair shoulder length if you're up to it Akeshi?" she smiled.
"Leave it to me then."
"Do you think Naruto-kun will like it?" she replied blushing.
"He will love it I guaranteed it!" Akeshi gave her a thumb up.
"There you are Akeshi and Sakura"
The two kunoichis turned to see Genjuro Sasuke and Tazune walking towards them.
"I hope you enjoy your stay in the forest Sakura?" Genjuro raised an eyebrow at her.
"Sorry sensei but I and Naruto-kun got caught in the training Naruto-kun must still be in the forest training."
"I don't expect any less from him but were going with Tazuna-san to the bridge to resume our mission" replied the jounin.
Akeshi sweat dropped" oh right I forgot about that….looks like the makeover will have to wait Sakura sorry."
"It's okay I can wait besides we are in the middle of a mission."
"Makeover?" Sasuke said with a raised eyebrow" is that the only thing you guys worry about instead of training and waiting for Zabuza to come?"
"It's a girl thing Uchiha boy you wouldn't understand" Akeshi replied.
"Thank goodness for that" grinned the Uchiha.
"Whatever…"
Tazuna sighed" let's get going already if we continue this way we will probably finish the bridge in a week and a half."
"Right let's not keep you waiting Tazuna-san" Genjuro said" by the way Sakura Tsunami-san is going to buy some groceries could you help her along the way?"
"Sure no problem sensei"
"Thanks let's go everyone."
(Time skip)
(Location: Tazuna's house urban district wave country water country territory)
Inari was resting in his bed deep in thought after everything that has happened, the words he remembered from Genjuro and Naruto. He glared thinking about the blond genin he didn't like him he found him rather annoying, his words hold truth but they were harsh. He gazed at the photograph on his wall of his family he was smiling with his mother and grandfather however Kaiza's picture was missing because he cut it out. Since he died at the hands of Gato he stopped believing in him, in the village or himself that was the day when he cut his father figure from the family picture. In his eyes he was a hero but he failed when he couldn't stop Gato when he was caught and executed, he stopped believing in him. He hold his tears but he failed always crying that was the only thing he could do, he was no hero the village was doom. Just then he started rethinking his decision and maybe he made a mistake in giving up, perhaps Kaiza was really a hero after all and he died happy because he died protecting the people of wave. Genjuro's and Naruto's words have awakened him making him realize that perhaps he made a big mistake in not believing in his grandfather's dream, the hope of the village. He wiped his tears staring at the picture he was only a child what else can he do other than cry, he felt like he needed to do something.
"I think it's more appropriate for a son to follow in his father's footsteps."
"Inari I'm sure Kaiza had a lot of faith in you he must have believed in you a lot just like you believed in him too."
"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 when he died, I think he would have preferred dying protecting the village than dying without doing anything at all."
"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?"
'Can I really do this…I'm scare Gato is strong…did he really believed in me?'
"Inari?" Tsunami entered his room smiling" I picked up some good ingredients when I went grocery shopping with Sakura I have made a delicious meal would you want some?"
"Mom….do you think dad wanted me to be a hero?"
Tsunami blinked at her son's comment" why are you asking sweetie?"
"I just want to know….I know he died trying to save us from Gato and I've been wondering if he wanted me to be more like him and do what is right?"
The young woman knelt beside him" sweetie your dad wanted you to live your life happily with the people you care about, but I believe he wanted you to learn to fight for what you believe in him."
The small boy sobbed letting a couple of tears fall" I should it know he….he really wanted me to defend the land just like he did…"
"Inari what is your heart telling you right now?"
"That I should do something….I feel like hiding and do nothing is not the right way we…we shouldn't be living each day in fear because of Gato…"
Tsunami smiled giving her son a soft kiss on his forehead" sweetie you're already acting like Kaiza. I'm happy to see that you're no longer beating yourself up and looking down on him. It looks like you're starting to believe in everyone."
"Thanks mom…" Inari replied drying his tears.
Tsunami felt like crying instead she gave a big smile" how about if you come down and taste some of the food I made?"
"Yeah I am kind of hungry."
"Let's go."
They left the room while Tsunami kept her gaze at her son. She felt like crying finally he was beginning to gain some hope in the village and probably on the dream of her father to build a bridge. She thought Inari lost hope in everything when Kaiza died but it seems she was wrong, now he has found hope again. He might change for the better and become the sweet boy she knows and loves, she tears up at the thought. She knew there was only one person who could be responsible for her son change of heart she smiled thinking about him the man who managed to get through to him.
She blushed thinking about him' thank you Genjuro-sama…'
(Time skip)
(Location: forest region wave country water country territory)
The Naruto clones charged at other clones fighting for their lives, it was always the kind of training Naruto always do to get stronger. Fighting himself learns to know his own strength and weaknesses just like Genjuro taught him. They used their kunais to get rid of the competition while the other thought the exact same thing some of them hit each other at the same time, they vanished in a cloud of smoke. The real Naruto was fighting fiercely taking out his clones one by one while he had his bruises from the successful hits, his shadow clones weren't push over. This was the best way to prepare himself to fight Zabuza and the two hunter nins although he didn't know their abilities he learned at the academy learning the opponent skills was an advantage in battle, to form a strategy to defeat him. He charged in at the clones exchanging blows with them using a kunai to block their kunai attacks, he grinned he could already predict the moves from his own shadow clones. It was going to be easy for him to beat them since he knew all of his moves he blocked all of their attacks and counter with a punch, a kick and his kunai. The clones who were far away he used his shurikens to hit them with his quick aim he got rid of more of the clones, it wasn't long before there were only a few left.
The clones continued their barrage on the original while the real blond was smirking at the fight he always gets a joy in sighting his shadow clones. He didn't notice that he was being watched by someone by the bushes. Someone who was feeling envious at the blond genin his spy was none other than Sasuke. The Uchiha was staring at the battle with some angry eyes he was still upset at the fact that his rival in secrecy because he would never admit it learned an A rank jutsu like the shadow clone technique. It wasn't fair for someone like Naruto who wasn't part of the elite of Konoha like the Uchiha and he was already a strong talented ninja, he was supposed to the prodigy of the Uchiha clan. He was supposed to be more talented and superior to the blond he should be the one to learn all kinds of high rank ninjutsu, but he hated to feel satisfied. With Genjuro's training he has become strong but he wanted to get stronger in order to fulfill his revenge so in order to fulfill his ambition he needed more power, he felt like testing his skills. He grinned what better way to test his abilities against his rival a nice warm up match before they fight Zabuza and his allies. He chose to continue gazing at the fight he can learn something from this, knowing more of the blonds' weakness.
Naruto finally got the opening he was looking for as the shadow clones cornered him, they all charged at him in quick speed. He smirked as he jumped high in the air they never saw it coming he had this match won.
He made hand seals" wind release stream bullet!"
He blew a gust of wind from his mouth hitting the remaining shadow clones, finally they were all defeated. Naruto landed on the ground safely panting slightly smiling he could feel that some of his chakra has been drained due to the fight and performing the wind jutsu.
'Yeah…looks like my chakra has depleted plenty enough to control the remaining all right, time to practice if I can make that jutsu I've been trying to learn.'
"Not bad dobe…"
Naruto frowned seeing the Uchiha walking to him he wasn't happy interrupting him in the middle to learn his jutsu" what do you want teme I don't have time to deal with you?!"
"A match…" he replied his onyx eyes staring into his cerulean eyes" you have gone a long way since the first time we met you want to surpass me and become the strongest ninjas in the village."
"My dream is to become Hokage. If I want to fulfill that dream I do have to become the strongest ninja the hidden leaf village that also includes stronger than you teme…"
"Hmph….." Sasuke stared at him.
"I want to accept your offer in fighting you but I'm afraid I can't. You can't forget that sensei warned us not to fight each other, even in a sparring match I don't want to upset him sorry teme."
"What an excuse" scoffed the Uchiha" if you don't want to fight me then just say so. Don't make up lame excuse just because you're afraid in having a demonstration match against me…"
Naruto growled at his comment" what the hell did you just say teme I am not afraid of you I have fought you before during the academy and I was pretty good too!?"
"You couldn't beat me during our taijutsu matches you're not in my level yet."
"What the hell are you talking about we tied in every single one of them don't come saying lies!? The blond was really upset now.
"We won't be having a tied anymore only one way to prove it then" Sasuke got in a fighting stance.
'Oh screw what sensei says I am so sick of his arrogant attitude, just because he's the last of his clan that doesn't make him the strongest of Konoha!'
The blond genin got into a fighting stance" fine teme you're on!'
The Uchiha grinned' that was easy….time to prove my strength against you dobe.'
"Taijutsu only!" Naruto said.
"Like the academy…"
Sasuke made the first move charging at the blond with his speed, which Naruto admitted that he was fast. His eyes widened when the Uchiha took a kunai attacking him with the weapon he was quick to countered the attack with a kunai of his own, he wasn't happy in the least with the Uchiha's action.
"What the hell are you doing I said taijutsu only!?"
"A ninja must be prepared for anything…the enemy will always fight unfair to win. That's one of the first advices Genjuro sensei gave us don't you remember?"
"I know but this is just a demonstration match not a match to the death!" shouted Naruto.
Sasuke chuckle" Genjuro sensei was right about you all along….you're so naïve."
"Stop giving me advices teme!" the blond genin was enraged.
The Uchiha kept his grin as he dodged and blocked the blows from his blond rival, his moves and patterns were sluggish like he wasn't trying his best. He has plenty of experience fighting Naruto during the demonstration matches at the academy before and after the blond started training under Genjuro and he could clearly see the difference right away. In the matches Naruto was always focus and concentrated on the match a truly fierce and worthy opponent, but now he didn't know what to think. His anger has gotten the best of him giving the Uchiha the advantage he needed. He was going to keep his little game up.
"Dobe you truly are an excuse for a ninja even with training under Genjuro sensei."
"Shut up teme!"
Naruto's moves became more sluggish and too predictable for Sasuke to dodge them with ease, he used a roundhouse kick sending the blond to the ground. He got up again throwing punches and kicks that will make him laughed he knew it the blond wasn't even trying now, which it was going to be an easy win for the Uchiha. The Naruto fighting him right now was completely different from the one who fought him plenty of times in the past to him it was pitiful it wasn't funny anymore. To him it was probably an insult that his rival in secrecy was fighting so horribly, so unworthy, so ungenin like. He countered all of Naruto's moves kicking his chin and sending a couple of his punches to his face making the blond fall to the ground, the Uchiha wasn't happy with his performance he wasn't a challenge anymore.
"Hmph…trained by a strong ninja like Genjuro and you're still weak. I guess it's true what they say…once a loser always a loser eh dobe?"
He was surprised to see Naruto grinning at him" teme…you really think I would fall to your little trick?"
Sasuke gasped when Naruto vanished in a cloud of smoke' what…a shadow clone!?"
The real Naruto appeared in front of him punching him while launching a kick causing another blow to the Uchiha, he was sent to the ground but he remained his balance he was still on his feet' it can't be this entire time I have been fighting a shadow clone….when did he….damn if I had unlock my sharingan I would been able to see that…'
Naruto charged at him with a barrage of punches and kicks while the Uchiha was trying to avoid them, the perfect coordination of the attacks he knew it. He was fighting the old Naruto who was strong and a worthy rival, it was like going back to the past in the ninja academy. Both of them were equally good in their taijutsu skills, they were both in the same level of strength in the field of taijutsu. Both were exchanging blows equally one got hit the other got hit as well, a taijutsu match with them will always show the same result a draw. They continue throwing punches and kicks leading to the same results as both of them took a step back facing each other, both were grinning to them this little match was a never ending story. The Uchiha was still curious about the blond genin's little plan using a shadow clone he has really fooled him because he hasn't awaken his bloodline limit it was his excuse after all.
"That was a nice move using a shadow clone to fight me, but this is supposed to be a taijutsu match only."
"Don't be such a smart ass teme you did the same thing with the kunai. A ninja must always be prepared for anything the enemy will always fight unfair to win, you're not the only one who has taken sensei's advices seriously."
"Should I be impressed about that?" Sasuke said in an arrogant tone.
"I'm not expecting you to. It's a good thing in my last match against my shadow clones I chose to make one shadow clone to use it in reserve just in case and I hid myself in the bushes. Once you started with the taunting I figure out what you were up to looks like I did the right thing in summoning the shadow clone…"
"Hn…." grunted the Uchiha.
"From the very beginning you were trying to make me lose focus by making me angry, that was the whole reason for the taunting. Letting my anger get the better of me will be fatal in the match because there will be no way I will be able to put up with you if I'm blinded by my anger."
"Heh…looks like you're not as stupid as you look dobe…" Sasuke grinned.
"Drop it teme your psychology game doesn't work on me, I have learned to always take your seriously. Using my hatred to fight you I will be handing the victory to you. In combat with the enemy letting anger cloud your judgment is fatal to yourself, your team and the mission. One must learn to calm the mind in combat I wouldn't have become the person I am today if it wasn't for sensei. The same goes to you teme you can be stubborn to not admit it but the truth is you have become stronger because of his training, just like me."
The Uchiha stood quiet for a little before he snorted" I'm not that stubborn to admit it, it's true I won't deny it. We have gotten stronger since the first time we met….it's all because of Genjuro sensei's training."
Naruto chuckle' well what do you know I guess the teme isn't as proud as I thought?'
"Let's keep going if you can still keep up with me dobe" Sasuke grinned resuming his fighting stance.
"Heh…it was a good warm up now we can finally start the real taijutsu match!"
"Come dobe!" Sasuke charged.
"Let's go teme!"
Once again the two genin resumed their match not caring if they would be equally matched or even hell they didn't care if it ends up in a draw like always. Sasuke continued to launch attacks at tire knowing that he could still fight he was really tough in endurance he remained focus on the match just like the blond. He remembers how far he has gone in Genjuro's training he was stronger compare to the past when he was training on his own, he admitted his life changed when he placed in team seven. It changed for the better and he was happy because everything was beneficial to him, he needed the training to gain the strength to kill his older brother. Every step he took in his training was another step towards fulfilling his revenge.
'Keep getting strong dobe….my rival because I will continue to grow stronger and you're the perfect tool to make myself very strong in order to defeat Itachi…'
(Time skip: evening)
(Location: Tazuna's house urban district wave country water country territory)
Genjuro, Akeshi and Sakura were waiting for the rest of the team. By now Tazuna, Inari and Tsunami have gone to sleep Tazuna needed the rest since he had to wake up early in the morning to resumed building the bridge. The jounin wasn't happy that his two students haven't returned yet even if they were training, they need rest so they can continue with their mission he just hoped that they weren't fighting each other or they will be in big trouble. Akeshi wasn't worried for her two teammates at all they were strong and they can take care of themselves, there was no need to worry about them. Of course she was still concerned for them because it was late she didn't wanted them to sleep in the forest like what happened with Naruto and Sakura. The one who was more worried was Sakura thinking about her two friends especially Naruto, she was still feeling guilty for what happened in the morning with Haku and she wanted to have the chance to apologize to her childhood friend and crush. Akeshi has given her the makeover cutting her long pink hair into shoulder length, she was hoping that the blond genin likes it and gives her a nice compliment. Everyone was thinking that they should go and looked for them the possibilities that they have fallen sleep in the forest were high.
Genjuro was losing his patience' those two are in so much trouble when they return…'
"Where are they?" Sakura said worried" they should be here already."
"I want to apologize to Naruto-kun it's my fault and I want him to call me pretty with my new hair cut!"
"Should we let them spend the night in the forest they obviously must have gotten too caught up in the training?" Akeshi said.
"I don't want them to sleep in the cold night we need all the rest we can get to do this mission. Akeshi Sakura go to sleep I will look for them" Genjuro replied.
Just then the front door opened revealing Sasuke carrying an unconscious Naruto on his shoulder. The Uchiha had an annoyed expression on his face clearly he didn't liked carrying the blond genin and he wasn't happy at all. Sakura gasped seeing her best friend covered with dirt bruises ignoring that the Uchiha also had bruises and dirt all over his face, she went to him concerned while Akeshi sighed it wasn't a good sign. Sasuke ignored Genjuro's glare knowing that the jounin wasn't happy with the sight, they had disobeyed his orders.
"Naruto-kun are you all right?!" Sakura said shocked before she glared at the Uchiha" you did this to him didn't you Sasuke!?"
"He'll be fine he's just tire from our training that's all…." He replied coolly seeing that Sakura was now carrying him' he's exhausted because he used a lot of his chakra during his match with his shadow clones.'
"It must have been one heck of a training he's all bruised I should probably attend to his injuries" replied the pink haired genin.
"It's not that big of a deal" Sasuke said.
"It is to me!" she snapped before carrying her best friend upstairs.
"Hn…."
Akeshi sighed again' you're in for it now Uchiha boy.'
"You two fought each other?" Genjuro kept his glare on the Uchiha.
"It was just a friendly match we're both fine."
"But you still fought and both of you disobeyed my orders!" the jounin glared before he took a scroll from one of his many vest pockets, he took a brush and started writing on the scroll.
"What are you writing sensei?" Akeshi was afraid of asking.
"I am adding another punishment to the punishment list. Naruto and Sakura have to run a hundred laps around Konoha once we get back from the mission for pulling the prank on Tazuna-san and now Naruto and Sasuke have to do five hundred pushups when we return to the village."
The Uchiha frowned but kept his cool and temper" I'm going to sleep then…" he headed upstairs.
Akeshi was surprised to see his reaction, it was perhaps the first time Sasuke didn't complain or got angry for being scolded' whoa….Uchiha boy must be too tired to argue with sensei. He usually never stays quiet about receiving a punishment from him.'
(Time skip: one week later)
(Location: cabin forest region miles away from wave country water country territory)
Zabuza has finally recovered from the death state paralysis he received from Haku in order to save his life from Genjuro. The missing nin was finally ready to fulfill his mission for good, this time he was going to make sure that the leaf jounin dies along with his genin team and the bridge builder. He has changed his regular hidden mist uniform he was now wearing an all black uniform minus his bandage hands and his mask, he was holding his long blade the executioner blade ready to go for combat. Haku and Kimimaro were in their mist hunter nins uniform this time they were going with their leader to battle their foes. They make sure that they have prepared everything they needed weapons, medicine thanks to Haku finding the herbs and even soldier pills, although none of them used them since they don't like relying on them. The missing nin took his long blade putting it on his sheath on his back ready to go.
He gazed at the mask teens" Haku Kimimaro let's go we have a bridge builder to kill!" they nodded before leaving the cabin.
(Location: Tazuna's house urban district wave country water country territory)
The team has gotten prepared to go once again to the bridge to guard Tazuna, however not everyone was happy. Sakura was a bit down after one week that Akeshi cut her hair Naruto still hasn't seen her new look yet because he has been too focused training in the forest, it was always the same for the blond genin. He will go early in the morning to train with Sasuke joining him and they will return late at night when everyone else was already sleeping. What annoyed her, the most is the fact that she still hasn't had the chance to apologize to him for what happened with Haku it was enough to make her go berserk. Another thing is that Naruto was still sleeping from last night's training looks like they were planning on going to the bridge without him which means the blond might miss the guarding the duty, or the incoming action according to Genjuro. The jounin was in deep thought hoping that the mission ends but it won't happen as long as Gato is around he was a threat to the people of wave country. They left the house leaving Tsunami who was sweeping the house and Inari upstairs on his room they walked the streets of the district while Tazuna smiled at them.
"Everyone I want to thank you all once again for what you're doing for me."
"Tazuna-san you have already thank us plenty of times so we heard you the first time" replied Genjuro with a smile.
"Because of you we have advanced a lot in the construction, we might finally finish building the bridge in just a couple of days."
"That's great for you Tazuna-san and everyone in wave but it's not good news for Gato" Sakura said.
"Indeed let's keep focus on today's watch team" Genjuro said in deep thought' it's been one week Zabuza must have recuperated from the death paralysis state from that hunter nin by now, we should be careful.'
Akeshi read her teacher's mind" sensei do you think Zabuza will come after Tazuna again today?"
"I believe so which I advise all of you to watch out in today's watch."
"That's good let him come we'll be ready for him" Sasuke said.
"I just hope Naruto-kun wakes up soon so he can join us" Sakura replied hoping that he helps them fight but more importantly that he sees her new look, along with her apology.
"Naruto-kun is not going to miss this fight but I really want him to see my new hair cut, I want to say I'm sorry too!" inner Sakura had tears at the corner of her eyes.
"We don't need the dobe" retorted the Uchiha which make the pink haired teen to frown at him for his rude comment.
"Don't worry about Naruto I have a feeling he will wake up soon. He won't miss the chance to fight Zabuza again" Genjuro smiled knowing his student very well.
(Location: near the bridge wave country water country)
Zabuza, Haku and Kimimaro were in a small boat heading towards the bridge, it wasn't so far from their view now. They saw that it was almost finish meaning it wasn't good for their client Gato, his whole business depended on the sake that the bridge is never finish in its construction. The missing nin was grinning behind his mask this was going to be the stage where he kills the bridge builder and his former comrade from hidden mist Genjuro, today he will make his own justice prevail. This time he had the edge in the fight he wasn't alone, bringing his two students to the fight. Haku and Kimimaru were above genin level they will do quite a job in the upcoming fight not to mention that the Konoha ninjas didn't had a clue about their abilities, which gives them a big advantage in the fight. They were for in a surprise when they see them in action they were his strongest students and he will make good use of them to crush his enemies and fulfill his goal, Gato's double payment reward was truly worth the shot. They arrived below the bridge ready for combat while Zabuza was still grinning.
"We're finally here…" Zabuza said.
"What about the other people working on the bridge?" Kimimaro said.
"I don't care about them let them run in fear, our target is the bridge builder Genjuro and his team is a bonus" replied the missing nin.
Haku smiled behind his hunter nin mask while he was still in deep thought since leaving the cabin, however Zabuzan noticed like he could read mind he had a feeling something was troubling the teen.
"Something on your mind Haku?"
"Huh…no it's nothing Zabuza-sama I'm ready to fight."
"Is it Gato?" asked Kimimaro hitting the nail on the head.
"I…." he paused.
"Is that what's troubling you?" Zabuza said with an amused laugh" I could give a crap about that midget, all that matters is that he fulfills his end of the bargain and give us the large amount of money for our services."
"That's just it….if he does fulfills the end of his bargain" Haku replied with some force in his voice he didn't trusted the criminal one bit.
"I don't trust Gato either" Kimimaro said.
"I don't trust him any more than you two, but what's important is that he has lots of money. His only worth to keep alive because of his income nothing else, otherwise I would have killed him a while ago."
"He's probably thinking of betraying us" Kimimaro said.
"I am expecting he will and that's why if he does double cross us I will chop his head off with my blade" replied the missing nin looking at his two students" let's cut the chit chat and get this over with once and for all."
Both mask hunter nins nodded in agreement.
(Time skip)
(Location: Tazuna's house urban district wave country water country territory)
Naruto woke up all sleepy and tire he has been training so hard lately that he hasn't been getting enough time to rest. He always arrived late at night after returning from the forest it was nice that Sasuke decided to tag along with him to train, although he still saw the Uchiha as an arrogant antisocial jerk. He hasn't seen his teacher or his other teammates during the week he's been training and he kind of missed them for not seeing them in just one week. Genjuro, Akeshi and of course Sakura, he flinched remembering what happened the last time he was with the pink haired genin. She got so angry at him for telling her that the mysterious womanly looking boy who was picking herbs was prettier than her, he felt hurt he didn't meant to say that. But he felt upset with himself for saying such comment he has always thought Sakura was the prettiest girl in the entire world, and yet he had the nerve to say someone was prettier than her it was worst when he found out that she was a he. He sighed hoping that the pink haired girl forgives him for his mean comment, he sighed getting off the bed. As he looked at the window seeing the sun shining so bright his eyes went wide realizing something.
He gasped' oh crap I overslept again damn it….everyone must have left for the bridge by now I better hurry!'
He got dressed on his ninja uniform while preparing his gear making sure he has everything ready to prepare for a fight. He had a feeling that Zabuza or Gato might show their faces so he wanted to make sure he was ready to face them, he packed everything from his weapons to the small medic kit Genjuro gave him. He finished packing some explosive kunais that he bought on a weapon shop in Konoha and he was finally ready to go, before he headed to the door he halted hearing voices from nearby.
"Inari run!"
The blond gasped' that sounds like Tsunami and it's coming from outside…'
He gazed from the window of the room and gasped. He saw two thugs with swords one of them was holding Inari while Tsunade was almost in tears, he knew it was nothing good he growled' those bastards what are they up to?!'
"Let me go right now!" Inari shouted trying to break free from the thugs grip.
"Shut up brat!" he tightened his hold on him making the young boy to stiffen.
"No don't leave him out of this!" Tsunami shouted.
One of the thugs grinned" the boss wants us to take only one."
Naruto's cerulean eyes hardened' boss...'
"Then take me there's no need to take him he's just a child!" Tsunami replied.
The same thug snorted" the brat will do."
"If you take him then I will bite my tongue!" she glared at them" take me I'm more valuable to you than him, I'm Tazuna's daughter."
"No mom!" Inari had tears falling.
The thugs looked at each other before chuckling letting the boy go" fine whatever then we will take you…"
"All right" she replied going with them.
"Mom don't go!" Inari started running towards her.
"Inari stop…don't take another step return to the house and stay hidden are we clear?"
"No mom….I can't lose you too….don't leave me….I won't lose you like dad…" more tears were falling from the young boy's face.
"Please just stay hidden and safe…." She replied as she was in tears.
One of the thugs growled" let's get going already!" he pushed Tsunade as they continue walking out.
"Mom….." Inari was shocked sobbing.
"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?!" Naruto said.
"But what can I do I'm just a kid?"
"That's merely an excuse they are plenty of things, you can start by standing up to Gato" Genjuro said.
"Inari I'm sure Kaiza had a lot faith in you he must have believed in you as much as you have believed in him."
"Kaiza wanted you to protect wave just like he did after all don't you want to protect Tsunami-san and Tazuna-san?"
"I want to build the bridge in an attempt to lift the spirit of wave the bridge will be the symbol of hope of our people. It's the only way to stop Gato I want everyone to see that there are still heroes just like Kaiza" Tazuna said.
Kaiza patted his head smiling at him" a hero is someone who stands up for his people and supports them for what he believes in, someone who will protect everyone because they're precious to him."
"He was happy because he was going to die for the sake of the village and everyone…." Genjuro said.
'No I won't give up….I won't let them take mom!'
He run heading straight at them" stop you're not going anywhere!"
The two thugs turned to him looking annoyed" what the hell do you want now brat?"
"You're not taking my mom!"
"Inari don't!" Tsunami was still crying.
"You're starting to piss me off brat either you leave or I will cut you down with my blade" he showed him his katana.
Instead feeling afraid or the instinct to run away and hide Inari's face was full of determination and courage" you're not taking her if you want to kill me then do it, I'm not going to let you take my mom I will bite you if I must!"
The same thug growled" that's it I have already tested my sword on that boar on our way here, but looks like I will tested on you brat. I will cut you into tiny little pieces that no one will ever find them."
"No I won't let you!" Tsunami shouted before she was hit by the hilt of the sword of the second thug knocking unconscious .
"Take a nap lady…"
"Mom!"
"Time to die brat!" the thug walked to him sheathing his katana.
Inari still had tears still showing courage" I will not run away…never…."
"Well you should brat" the thug raise sword high in the air.
'Mom…dad…grandfather….I guess this is it for me. At least I will die trying to protect my mon.'
"Die!"
Just before the sword reached Inari the thug was punch by Naruto sending him to the ground.
"What then who the hell are you?!" the second thug said.
Inari looked at his savior and smiled" Naruto!"
The blond genin looked smiling" you know it."
"You won't get away with this!" the second thug unsheathed his sword charging at him.
Naruto blocked his sword with a kunai smirking" oh please do you even know how to use a sword properly my sensei can beat you without lifting a finger?"
"Why you little you will pay for that!"
The blond blocked another attack and punched him knocking him out" there looks like I'm done taking out the trash here."
"Mom!" Inari went to his mother's side.
Naruto checked on her" don't worry Inari Tsunami's fine she just unconscious" he summoned a shadow clone.
The clone carried her on his shoulder taking her back to the house" you okay Inari?"
"Yeah I'm all right thanks for saving me Naruto."
The blond patted his head giving him a smile" congratulations Inari you acted so brave and you never showed any fear against those guys, you acted like a true hero!"
The young boy smiled trying to hold his tears from falling again" I….thank you very much…"
"What's wrong?"
"I…I don't want to cry because you will make fun of me…"
"Hey it's all right buddy if you feel like crying then go ahead cry. What you did was very brave I'm sure your dad will be proud of you."
Inari couldn't hold his tears anymore and started crying" thank you Naruto…..dad…"
"Inari I need you to stay here and watch over your mom, I'm going to the bridge to help my friends."
The young boy nodded drying his tears" good luck Naruto become a hero too."
"Of course I will. Believe it!" the blond gave him a thumb up.
"Yeah believe it!" Inari gave him a thumb up too.
(Location: bridge wave country water country territory)
The crew has finished for the day and they have already heading back to their homes. Tazuna was feeling so much better relief with the progress they have made so far, they have proceed a lot since the first day of construction on the bridge. These were the times he was truly happy to be alive after so much hard work in the building of the bridge it was finally coming together, it was almost done it makes all of his hard work pay off for good. His dream was finally going to come true his bridge will be finished and the people of wave will be save bringing a new day of peace and hope from the criminal Gato. He felt like he was fulfilling Kaiza's duty in saving wave from the criminal hoping they can finally be free riding themselves of the evil man who's been abusing them like they were his slaves. He smiled looking at the ninjas from Konoha who were kind enough to stay by his side and continued protecting him free of charge, they were real life savers. His only hope was for them to take care of Zabuza and Gato to finally free the people of this land, for his family and to keep Kaiza's memory in the heart of everyone.
Genjuro was feeling restless he could feel it, a bad feeling that something was about to happen. Naturally he would be wrong and he probably hallucinating but now it was different, he felt it very strong they weren't lucky. He wasn't the kind of person to believe in bad feelings until now especially knowing that Zabuza could be coming here any minute now. He knew he was ready, his team was ready for the battle they have prepared for any upcoming combat he hoped everything turns out okay. Sakura was next to Akeshi watching over Tazuna who was finishing up gathering his things like his tools while Sasuke was looking around the bridge for anything that might looked suspicious, so far there was nothing to worry about. He didn't like this tranquility he has known Zabuza for a while and how he works, he was one the ninjas from the hidden mist who is the expert of the silent kill technique. It was because of that he earned the nickname of the demon of the hidden mist he's a dangerous man just like the rest of the members of the seven swordsmen. He wasn't going to feel better not until they leave the bridge safe and sound, but he highly doubts it. He was counting on the missing nin if Gato has pay him a large sum for killing Tazuna someone like Zabuza or anyone else wouldn't missed a chance.
Tazuna finished packing his tools he was finally done for the day, while the genins were feeling a bit disappointed because Zabuza didn't show up especially Sasuke. Apparently they spoke too soon when a thick mist surrounded the entire bridge.
"What's going on?" Tazuna said looking around.
"This is…." Sakura started.
"Sensei!" Akeshi said turning to the jounin.
Genjuro nodded" I know he's here…"
'Good I can finally show the results of my training' thought Sasuke.
The thick mist made way for three figures to appear approaching them. Everyone turned to see Zabuza accompanied by the two fake hunter nins from mist, the missing nin was staring at Tazuna. He was very close in doing his job but first unfinished business turning his gazed towards Genjuro, the genins were ready to fight. Some of their gazes turned to the hunter nins they weren't happy a bit with the fact that they were really working for Zabuza and it was all just an act pretending that they came to kill the missing nin. They were the reason why he got away in the first place and why he was still alive leading to this confrontation.
Zabuza locked eyes with the jounin" we meet again Genjuro."
"Yes….for the last time" he replied.
"That's my line…." The missing nin grinned.
Everyone gasped Zabuza's body turned into water.
'A water clone!' thought Genjuro.
The real Zabuza was already behind Tazuna ready to kill him he raised his long blade ready to cut his head only to be clocked by Genjuro's sword. Everyone gasped at how quick the jounin was able to block the attack Tazuna was shocked at the sight. Both ninjas were staring at each other with a glare crossing their swords it was another failed attempt to take the life of the bridge builder.
'That was close….I thought I was a goner' thought Tazuna.
"Lucky shot" Zabuza said.
"Luck has nothing to do with it, I know how you work Zabuza and I know your style. As long as I'm here you won't be getting your hands on Tazuna-san" replied the jounin.
The missing nin chuckle as he blocked his sword jumping back to the two hunter nins. On Genjuro's side his team regrouped making sure Tazuna was next to them fulfilling their mission in protecting him. It was time to make a battle plan to succeed in the upcoming fight and the jounin kept his gaze on the two mask ninjas.
'Those two are obviously strong….they are hiding their abilities, they can't be underestimated.'
Zabuza put down his executioner blade looking his target" just as I thought I have to get through Genjuro in order to get to the bridge builder. Haku Kimimaro take care of the rest."
"Understood" Kimimaro replied.
"Yes Zabuza-sama" Haku said.
"Everyone" Genjuro said getting their attention" this is it…we have to stop them now failure is not an option. Don't forget your training I know you can do it."
He turned to the Uchiha" Sasuke I need you to take on the hunter nin on the left, be careful we know he's fast and his aim is very accurate remembering that he was able to hit Zabuza's muscle on his neck to put him in the death state paralysis."
"That's fine by me I've wanted to fight him."
"Akeshi I will count on you to take on the second hunter nin but be very cautious, unlike the other one we have no idea what he can do."
"Right sensei" replied the dark haired girl.
"What about me?" Sakura replied.
"Sakura I'm giving you the most important task in the mission, protect Tazuna-san look after him."
The pink haired genin felt a little disappointed for not taking much action in the fight but she nodded" right I will protect him Genjuro sensei, you can count on me."
"Good I will handle Zabuza everyone let's do our best."
"Right!" they replied unison.
Zabuza saw Sasuke heading their way" well looks like we have a volunteer who wants to die first, Haku finish him of quick."
"Yes Zabuza-sama…"
Haku charged while the Uchiha charged at him in the same speed, the hunter nin used a sembon needle while he used a kunai to blocked the attack. Both of them were crossing weapons while having a staring contest leaving the audience to be impressed at the sight.
'Not bad…the kid is fast. Looks like Haku may have some competition in speed after all' thought Zabuza.
Sasuke glared at the hunter nin' look at him we already know he's not a real hunter nin and he's still wearing that mask, just looking at him angers me.'
"I'm sorry…" replied Haku" forgive me but it seems you have made a mistake leaving yourself wide open for an attack."
"What the heck are you talking about?!" Sasuke growled.
"The water on the ground due to Zabuza-sama's water clone that's an advantage in my favor, and I have prevented you from performing any jutsu with keeping one of your hands busy."
"You can't perform a single jutsu too" countered the Uchiha the hunter nin had his own hand busy crossing his senbom needle with his kunai.
Haku only replied to him making a one handed seal shocking Sasuke and Genjuro.
'One handed!' thought the jounin with wide eyes.
Zabuza chuckle' that kid may be fast but he doesn't stands a chance against Haku.'
"Ninja art a thousand needles of death!"
The water on the ground turned into dozens of solid water needles they were all surrounding Sasuke.
"Look out Uchiha boy!" Akeshi shouted worried.
The needles fell on him but he was quick enough to evade the attack jumping back, using his speed as his advantage. He groaned as he noticed that he had a small wound on the back of his left hand. He gazed at the hunter nin who stood quiet like he was waiting for him to attack him.
'Looks like I wasn't quick enough to dodged the attack completely. I don't like this guy one bit apologizing to me acting all softhearted…like he's mocking me. This guy….annoys me…'
"You kid are as good as dead, I'm impressed you were able to survived that attack" Zabuza said he grinned watching the Uchiha tremble" look at you…you're already trembling in fear."
Sasuke grinned at him" I'm trembling with excitement."
'Lame' thought Akeshi with a sweat dropped.
"How about we get this show started?" replied the missing making hand seals" ninja art hidden mist jutsu!"
Thick mist covered the entire bridge making them almost impossible to see. Soon the team got separated unable to tell where they were each of were now on their own. Genjuro was trying to look inside of the mist but he wasn't having any luck in spotting anyone from his team, he was separated just like the rest of them. He got worried part of his teacher instinct to be concern for his students and team, he trusted them and believe in them but he couldn't help but worry about their safety. He walked a couple of steps trying to focus a lot of chakra on his ears if he can hear anything, any clues that might tell him where his team was. He stopped in his steps looking around there wasn't sound at all, it's like everything has stood still he only heard silence.
'Zabuza has really made the mist very thick I'm even having problems trying to see…'
He gasped hearing something heading his way at lightning speed he quickly moved out of the way to dodged Zabuza's blade rolling like the first time they encountered him arriving to wave. Zabuza charged at him launching an attack with his long blade, the jounin was able to see it blocking it with his sword. They constantly clashed their weapons like their previous encounter the missing nin lunched his executioner blade making Genjuro to jumped on top of it. He was now standing on the edge of the long blade Zabuza was quick to throw a couple of shurikens which the jounin blocked with his sword, proving that both swordsmen were very skillful in combat. He lunged at his with his sword and once again both ninjas were clashing weapons it was impressive how Zabuza was able to carry his blade with such ease since it was bigger than him, both were glaring at their encounter as they clashed their weapons a couple of times.
"Looks like this will take a while I really want to kill that bridge builder and get this over with already" replied Zabuza.
"You know I used to have respect for you Zabuza" Genjuro said pushing him back with his sword" you were among the most loyal swordsman of the seven, to think you will betray your own village. You have gone so low to be working for a scum like Gato just for the sake of his dirty money. Who knows how money people he has sacrificed for gaining the money, or should I say blood money?"
"This is all part of the world we all live in no matter what pretty words you used, this is reality we have to do whatever we can to survive in this cruel world. It's all about the survival of fittest the strong will survive and the weak shall die."
"What a twisted logic I would never agree with your way."
Zabuza jumped back launching another attack with his long blade but Genjuro blocked it again, their swords were crossing once again" it's funny how you say I betrayed mist what about you leaving the village so you could join the hidden leaf?"
Genjuro glared at him" there's a difference in betraying your village and being betrayed by your village, I did what I have to do in leaving. The day the Sandaime Mizukage singed the law that forbids anyone with a bloodline limit allow in the village it was the day that my loyalty for mist died. It was worst that he ordered to execute any member from a clan with a bloodline killing thousands of his own people, I will never return to that forsaken village even if it has changed for the better to this very day."
"Are we having a fight or a history lesson?!" the missing nin lunged with a kick.
Genjuro charged managed to land a hit on Zabuza punching him, the missing nin dropped his executioner blade in the process. He lunged his sword but Zabuza caught it with both of his hands he was using all of his strength to prevent the jounin from delivering a final blow. He pushed him blocking a kick from Genjuro as he jumped back quickly picking up his long blade.
"You're still keeping your reputation as one of the strongest of the seven swordsmen."
He made hand seals" water release water dragon bullet!"
The water dragon emerged from outside of the bridge heading straight while the jounin countered with hand seals" earth release stone barrier!"
A wall of stone emerged protecting Genjuro from the attack he gasped in shocked as Zabuza appeared behind him holding his executioner blade.
"You have let your guard down Genjuro a mistake that will cost you!"
He sliced the jounin's head with his long blade the missing nin grin being victorious of the fight, before his eyes widened in horror. Genjuro's body turned into mud falling into the ground.
'No it was an earth clone…'
"It seems you're the one who has let his guard down Zabuza."
"What!?"
The missing nin turned around only to be punched by Genjuro again. Zabuza regained his balance seeing the jounin charging at him he blocked an attack with his blade they were crossing weapons again, only this time he was feeling the painful blow from Genjuro's punches in his face.
"You could have used your sword to finish me off but you punched me twice, what's with you Genjuro don't tell me you're going easy on me?"
"You're right I could have chosen to kill you and get it over with but I chose not to. I'm not to kill you Zabuza….yet first I have something important to ask you and you will give me answer" he replied in a serious tone.
"Ask me something you're trying to get some information out of me?"
"Yes even if I have to beat you to a pulp you will answer me."
"Just try it" He gazed at the water on the ground and made hand seals" water release water clone jutsu!"
From the water emerged six Zabuza water clones while Genjuro wasn't impressed at all, they charged at him using their blades while he blocked them with his sword. He gasped when he saw one of the water clones getting behind him forming hand seals.
"Water release water prison jutsu!"
Genjuro was now caught in circular sphere of water before he vanished replaced with a log.
"Substitution?!"
"You thought I was going to fall for the same technique a second time?" Genjuro said standing behind the missing nin and his water clones.
He made hand seals" earth release earth dragon blast!"
A dragon face emerged from the ground shooting a powerful blast destroying all of the water clones, Genjuro charged at Zabuza knocking his executioner blade away. The jounin put his sword on the ground knowing that he wasn't going to need it since to him killing the missing nin wasn't in his mind yet, he charged at him and both engaged in a taijutsu match. Zabuza was being overpowered by Genjuro's skills as he dodged a couple of his blows but the jounin was too fast for him. The missing nin fought back but Genjuro blocked all of his blows and he was caught up in the jounin's attacks he tried reaching for his long blade, he was kicked in his chin. Genjuro punched him sending Zabuza to the ground he panted he growled in anger, he hated to admit that he was in the mercy of the former mist swordsman. His body was hurting and he has already wasted some chakra he wasn't ready to throw in the towel, he launched a punch but Genjuro easily blocked and countered it with a punch to his face.
"Damn you Genjuro…you're still stronger than ever" he panted taking a glance at his executioner blade not too far from his location he made a break to get his weapon back.
"Earth release earth pillar prison!"
Zabuza groaned as he was trapped in stone pillars he couldn't move a single muscle from his body" damn it…"
"You won't need your sword Zabuza. Now I believe it's time that you answer my question" Genjuro glared at him" I've been wanting to ask this question to any of the former members of the seven swordsmen, I think you may know the answer."
"I don't feel like telling you a word Genjuro!" spat the missing nin.
The jounin's eyes hardened giving him a glare full of hatred" you will answer me whether you like it or not or I will use my ways to make you talk. You know me and my ways are not to be taken lightly, so what will it be Zabuza talk or I will make you talk?"
The missing nin stood quiet he was staring at Genjuro's blue eyes full of hatred. During the years he has been able to know him well and he knew that right now he was being controlled by his hatred, something must have triggered him to make him act like this. There was one thing he knew about Genjuro that will make him this way but it was all in the past and yet he has never seen him like this before. It's like he has been possessed by hatred becoming a victim of nothing but anger, this was the first time he has seen the jounin so controlled by his rage. To him Genjuro was a clam person who always thought things through this person before him was different from his former partner, making him angrier than he already is will be a fatal mistake. He was trapped with no hopes of escaping for now he was going to follow his demands.
"Hmph….whatever is you want to ask me must be serious for you to have so much hatred in you Genjuro."
"It is for me…." He replied in the same serious tone.
"What do you want to now?" Zabuza was pissed after suffering another defeat by the jounin.
Genjuro got closer to him with an expression that really meant business" Hoshigaki Kisame….where is he?"
(In another part of the bridge)
Akeshi was still trying to find a way out of the mist she couldn't see a thing she has already focused chakra on her ears to try and hear anything that might help her. She was lost in the mist after Zabuza used the hidden mist jutsu to separate her along with his team, walking a few steps she halted as she felt something. Her eyes were finally able to see something in the distance through the thick mist there was someone standing in front of her. She sighed gazing at the hunter nin her opponent, her teacher told her that he counted on her to beat him. Looks like she was really going to fight him after all she gazed at him while he stood quiet. Kimimaro only looked at her before he took a few steps towards her, fighting her wasn't necessary but he needed to for the sake of the job. Killing the bridge builder was the only thing they came here for not fighting other people they hardly know about.
"You're just the person I wanted to meet, I'm suppose to beat you no offense" she replied with a silly grin.
"My apologies I don't have nothing against you" KImimaro replied" but for our cause and for Zabuza-sama I will defeat you…"
"Highly unlikely" she unsheathed her sword" how about if you take off your mask, you're not really a hunter nin from mist so why keep it on?"
"You're right now that my cover has been discovered I don't have a reason to keep it on."
Akeshi saw him taking off his mask seeing his face and for some reason there was something about him, there was no evil in his eyes. It's like there was no thirst for blood in it making her wonder if he was really someone who worked for a person like Zabuza. She kept in mind remembering what Genjuro told her not underestimate him she was planning in winning nothing else, it didn't necessary means that she has to kill him. Kimimaro took a kunai ready to fight her even if he couldn't waste time because of their job he didn't felt like getting his hands dirty with blood, at least not for now though. He wasn't going to get a chance to make up his mind whether he should kill the dark haired red highlights kunoichi.
Akeshi has charged at him sword in hand.
To be continued
That's all for now yes people it seems Akeshi might finally show her skills next chapter and what she's capable of against Kimimaro none the less. It will be an interesting match I hope you all look forward to it, remember to review. By the way I love 488 Tsunade is finally awake and no Naru/Hina reunion about her confession from 51 chapters ago hmm….I seriously don't know why? But anyway I will see you all next time farewell.
Next chapter: Battle at the bridge part 2: the last of the Hamachi clan
(Omake title: bad dreams)
Naruto and Sasuke were resting in the forest after having another training session, both teens were exhausted and they have earned their rest after hours of hard training. None of them didn't have an idea that they will be experiencing some unpleasant dreams which it was going to ruin their peaceful sleep for tonight. It wasn't going to be a happy goodnight for any of them, the bad news they weren't going to wake up in time before they experience it.
Naruto struggle in his sleep remembering what happened between him and Sakura with Haku, he couldn't stand seeing her so angry that she ended up punching him. His forehead started sweating remembering the day while mumbling something that he wanted ramen.
"You obviously like him so go to him and while you're at it why don't you marry him!?"
'No I….I don't want to marry a boy I….'
He imagined wearing a tuxedo and Haku wearing a bride dress and both of them were about to kiss before Haku spilled the beans.
"By the way….I'm a boy…"
"No I don't want to marry a boy I don't want to kiss him…." he mumbled in his sleep moving back and forth.
Sasuke was dreaming something different than the blond, he dreamed that he tied up and was surrounded by rabid fan girls. They were all looking like evil monsters with sharp claws and teeth they were all staring at him like they wanted to eat him, he was freaking out at the sight.
"Sasuke-kun I love you!"
"Sasuke-kun want to go on a date with me?"
"Sasuke-kun kiss me!"
"Sasuke-kun I love you!"
'No I ….get away from me crazy fan girls…'
"AHH I don't want to marry a boy!!!" shouted the freaked out Naruto.
"Get away from me crazy fan girls I hate fan girls!!!" Sasuke shouted with bug eyes.
Both of them were awake before looking at the other.
"What???"