I don't own Naruto
I personally have always liked Kiri Naruto. However, I wanted to read one, where he didn't go missing-nin. I just have trouble seeing Naruto doing that. He is just to loyal and determined. Since I couldn't find one that met my criteria I just decided to write my own. That and there aren't enough stories with Zabuza.
I'm not a big fan of writing romance, that is why I left it out of the genre. But, I figure I can give it the old college try.
Here is my next chapter…
Chapter 5
Kiri's Newest Ninja
"I can't do this. I can't do this."
Zabuza just watched the newest Kiri nin pace back and forth in his dressing room.
"Calm down GakI. You'll be fine."
The 'Gaki' just turned and glared at the swordsman.
"Fine? FINE? I'm marrying a girl I have never even met. How will I be fine? Not to mention, I haven't seen Haku-chan since arriving, she really liked me and I really liked her. She is probably devastated and I haven't even seen her."
'Especially sense I heard it was supposed to be the Mizukage. How would that work? He loves her, she love him, and I love his daughter, all the while being married to her. Oh god my head hurts.'
Zabuza was forced to fight back a smirk.
'She is doing better than you think.'
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK
"Naruto-san, they are ready for you."
Taking a shaky breath, Naruto nodded and slowly made his way to the alter. He never even noticed that as Zabuza walked away he let his smirk show.
Naruto walks down the isle with as much authority as he could, however, that wasn't much since his hands were sweaty, his left eye twitching, not to mention he was as pale as a ghost.
As he walked, he noticed members of Kiri's shinobi and civilian council were all present and in the first few rows. All the Jonin and elite ninja were behind them. Anyone else who wanted to go was behind them.
He arrived at the alter and removed Kubikiribocho from his back, he embedded his giant sword into the wood behind the platform, with a loud bang, just as he was told. Apparently, it was a tradition of the seven.
The wedding was supposed to start ten minutes ago and everyone was getting angsty.
There was a lot riding on this wedding, without it, Kiri would be vulnerable to attack. They were still weakened by the civil war and still recovering. Should one of the great five attack, they would be beaten quickly, Hell, as it sits, they would be hard-pressed to combat a well-prepared minor village.
However, everyone would think twice about attacking them if they were allied with Konoha and by extension, Suna.
Suddenly, the Honorable Elder of Kiri appeared and walked down the Isle. He walked with grace that belied his age. He was an elderly man, nearing his eighties. He had fought along side the Nindaime and Sandaime Mizukage, as well as the Yondaime before he had enough of the needless bloodshed and betrayed the Yondaime during the bloodline wars. It was ultimately because of his information that allowed the resistance to overtake Kiri. He wore elegant ceremony robes. They were white, made of the finest silk in Kiri and lined with the bluest sapphires in all of Earth Country.
When he arrived at the podium, he addressed everyone.
"Welcome, and thank you for sharing to most joyous of moments. Here is Naruto Uzumaki, son of Kushina Uzumaki, Jinchuuriki of the Kyubbi no Yoko, wielder of Kubikiribocho and apprentice of Zabuza Momochi. Newest genin of Kiri. He has joined our village to forge a bond between two villages, stronger than any signature, stronger than any friendship. A bond of blood. And now, the bride…"
It was at this time, a young woman stepped out, at least he thought it was a young woman. He was at least sure it was in fact a woman. Her head was covered by dark, blue veil, he was unable to make out her hair color and length. Her face, too was covered by a veil.
She walked with a grace that meant she had to be a Kunoichi.
All the while Naruto knew he knew her from somewhere.
'Damn, who is she. I know I know her. It is like just being around her…'
Naruto's thoughts were interrupted when Zabuza spoke in an angry, gruff tone.
"I give this girl to be your wife, for you to care and provide for each other, and eventually love each other. She shall keep you safe and you, her."
Naruto's mind was reeling.
'A girl is usually given away by her father… if that's true then…'
Naruto took the girls hand and she went to stand by his side, while Zabuza took up his place as Naruto's best man.
The Elder spoke once again.
"Young Uzumaki, please remove her veil so we may be graced with her beauty…"
Naruto did as he was told. His heart was pounding, his hands shaking.
'Could it be her?'
Naruto slowly removed her veil, only to be met with the small smile of Haku Momochi. The closest to a girlfriend he had ever had.
Naruto's nervous and rehearsed smile, turned to the truest happy smile to ever grace his face.
Seeing the happiness of her future husband, Haku's smile turned up several notches.
With grace, Haku removed the previously unnoticed Nuibari from her back, and stabbed it right next to his own, Kubikiribocho.
Naruto just barely noticed the Mizukage in her own ceremonial robes take her place at Haku's side.
Even in his daze, he was able to pick out a bit of the Elder's speech.
"…Haku Momochi, the adoptive daughter of Zabuza and Mei Momochi…"
"…Bond these villages, and these young people…"
"…Keep each other safe…"
"…You may kiss the bride."
Naruto looked into her eyes as if asking for permission, with a subtle nod, their lips met for a second time.
While the first time was just a goodbye, I think I love you but will probably never see you again kiss. This is a, your mine now kiss.
It started slow, as if testing the water. That changed quickly when Haku's arms wrapped around Naruto's neck in an attempt to draw him closer. Accepting the slight push, Naruto's hands grabbed Haku's slender waist.
Naruto's tongue nervously came out and licked Haku's bottom lip.
Haku, unable to stifle the gasp, was quick to moan when Naruto took that as an invitation and shot his tongue into Haku's mouth and began to explore.
With the Audience
The civilian council's thoughts:
'The trades with Konoha will do wonders for my district.'
The shinobi council's thoughts:
'It appears as though our alliance with Konoha shall be solid. They truly care for each other. Not to mention, we risk losing the daughter of the Mizukage while Konoha risks losing their Jinchuuriki. This will keep us both in line.'
Mei was forced to tug the collar of her robe a little because the room was definitely heating up. Her blush only increased when Naruto moved his hand from her waist to her ass and held on firm. If her moan was anything to go on, Haku definitely didn't mind.
'Damn that's hot, and to think that is only their first real kiss.'
Zabuza was torn, to be happy that his new apprentice and his adoptive daughter were together, or be pissed that his daughter and a guy she barely knew, 'Even if they were married' were going at it like they were on their honeymoon.
Eventually, the protective father in him won and he was about to end it by force when they separated, a trail of saliva connecting them. They never noticed because they continued to look deep in the other's eyes.
She looked radiant, he had never seen her so happy.
Zabuza just looked skyward.
'…Thank you Kami, I know I don't deserve the level of happiness you have given me…I was reunited with my love, my daughter seems to have found love and I am back home where I belong. I don't know what I did to gain your favor, but thank you.'
Mei cleared her throat and got the two teen's attention. They both turned bright red when they realized what was going on.
"Seeing as this is a political marriage and Haku's clan compound was destroyed several years ago, there is a small one-bedroom guest home attached to my clan compound. You will stay there for the first eight months. After that, you are welcome to continue to rent it out or you can move. I will have an Anbu take you to your new home."
"Now, this is a first, never have two wielders of the seven been wed…"
"Together, you shall remove the blades that keep, both you, and Kiri safe."
Haku and Naruto, both placed a hand on the other's sword, before heaving it from the ground. Haku hooked the giant sword on Naruto's back, while Naruto slid the sword in the small sheath near her ass.(Where Hiei keeps it from Yu Yu Hakashu)
"I now pronounce you man and wife. Shark shall show you to your new home."
The newly weds were following a Shark Anbu when Mei called out.
"Be at the Mizukage tower at noon in two days!"
Both smiled at turned back.
"Hai Mizukage-sama."
The walk to the home was short and both were nervous…
The Anbu showed them to the house before disappearing in a swirl of water.
As they looked around they loved it. It was bare, but had a hominess to it. It had everything they needed.
Naruto was fidgeting, unable to find something to do with his hands.
He ended up sitting at the dining room table and playing with the salt shaker.
With nervousness dancing in her eyes, she walked up and sat on his lap, effectively surprising him.
She took his hand in hers and looked into his eyes.
"Look…Neither one of us really know what's going on, lets just go with it and take it slow…"
The nervousness melted from both of their eyes and happiness was present.
"Now, I…I'm not ready to…go all the way… So, lets do something else together."
Naruto just nodded with a smile…
"Ok, Zabuza told me that there is a great Hot Spring here behind the tower, how about we talk over a relaxing bath…"
Even though they were married, the idea of being naked in front of the other was a pretty big step, obvious by the red that found it's way on their faces.
Haku gave a rather hesitant nod and got up from her husband's lap.
"Mei-sama said she already moved both of our clothes here… I'll grab my things…"
Naruto just watched her go, and sighed.
'Ok, think Naruto. You've never had a girlfriend, the only girl you really know, gets off at the thought of anything sharp, and you are about to go get naked with your new wife that you have known for all of a week… And I thought I was stressed before the wedding.'
He was broke out of his musings by Haku's voice.
"Hey Naruto, are you ready?"
Naruto looked up to see Haku standing there, with a small bag full of clothes and other things.
"Sorry, lost in thought."
Haku just smiled and nodded as he took off towards the bedroom.
Two days later
As the two couple made their way to the Mizukage tower, Both with a happy, content smile, fingers laced as they held onto the other.
They were each astonished for a different reason.
Naruto was shocked that nobody hated him. There was some fear, but it was greatly out shown by looks of respect.
'I haven't even done anything and they respect me. This is insane, can I truly live up to their expectations.'
'It's so beautiful. I'm so glad I have this chance to live in a peaceful Kiri. Zabuza had always described it, but words just can't do it justice.'
Just then a kid about eight years old jumped into an alley.
"HA FOUND YOU! SURRENDER OR DIE!"
Another kid, about the same age just stared impassively.
"A Kiri nin never surrenders."
Both, Haku and Naruto smiled as they watched the boys pull out wooden practice kunai and begin their fight.
The two never even realized they were right outside the Mizukage tower until they heard Zabuza's gruff voice.
"Fun night, huh?"
Both of their faces went bright red at what he was implying, as they walked by, not responding to Zabuza. He just followed behind them.
When they approached Mei's assistant's desk, she immediately sent them in.
When they entered, Mei was doing paperwork while Chojuro waited patiently.
"Here as requested Mizukage-sama."
Looking at the four in the office, Mei sighed.
'This is not going to go over well.'
"Do you know how the Seven Swordsmen got started?"
All, except for Zabuza was confused.
"No Mizukage-sama."
"You see, the seven swordsmen was an accident."
This got wide eyes from the three genin.
"Kiri, just like every other village has a system for pairing up it's genin. Usually, it is arrangements that have proven to work, and then whatever is left, gets paired. One year, right before the start of the Second Shinobi War, the pairing just happened to be three Kenjutsu users, at the time, Kenjutsu wasn't very popular in Kiri so that was quite surprising. The council was going to change the teams but the Nindaime decided against it. He merely gave the best Kenjutsu user in Kiri as their Jonin. His name was Kengou. He trained that team to the ground and during the war. They became feared by all. I mean like Konoha's Yellow Flash fear. After the Second war was over, the Nindaime was able to easily see the success of such a team. He then ordered the four to keep an eye out for special ninja that they believed to be worthy of becoming a Swordsmen of the Mist, as people had begun to call them."
All three genin were at the edge of their seats listening to the tale. Zabuza, even though he had heard the story many times before was even getting into it.
"When the group made it to seven members, they stopped recruiting. They believe that any more and quality will begin to suffer, any less and they could be overwhelmed by numbers. Those seven operated as one of the most powerful and successful shinobi forces in the elemental nations for almost six years when Kengou was severely wounded in battle. On his deathbed, Kengou presented those seven with the swords that are still used today. Nobody knows how or when he got them. Until the reign of the Yondaime Mizukage, and the group's falling into disarray, it was said, that when combined, the seven would potentially be capable of destroying a minor village on their own. The greatest group of them, the last generation was said to be able to destroy a major village…"
"Wow."
"I know, right."
"Incredible."
Mei seemed to be taking in their reactions, with a nod she steeled herself.
"I want you four to re-form the seven."
The Genin were wide-eyed.
'I knew this was going to be a team, but re-form the seven?'
"At this point in time, you, Zabuza are the best Kenjutsu user in Kiri. Not to mention you are the only living loyal ninja that has been trained in accordance with the rules of the Swordsmen. Your primary role will be to make sure that these three are worthy of the title. Similar to Kengou, you will not be part of the seven but you will be the mold. Kengou himself never considered himself a member of the seven and neither shall you."
He gave an unsure nod.
The genin weren't to sure either.
"Mizukage-sama, up until six days ago, I was a Konoha nin, how can I join one of Kiri's greatest organizations?"
Before the others could speak their minds, Mei glared at Naruto. Her words filled with anger and finality, she spoke directly to Naruto.
"You are a Kiri nin now. Do you understand?"
Naruto slowly nods.
"I don't care what you were yesterday, or the day before. Today, you fight for Kiri. You will bleed for Kiri. You will put you life on the line for Kiri. I think that makes you worthy."
Naruto's objections were swallowed and he nodded with determination in his eyes.
'I'm a Kiri nin, I won't let it down.'
It seemed as though Mei's words got to all of them, because Haku's and Chojuro's protests were silenced.
Mei took a deep breath.
"Good. Now this is the hard part. Your team will not be forming for six months."
"Why not Mizukage-sama?"
Mei smiled nervously as she mumbled something.
"What was that Mei-sama?"
Resigning herself to her fate, she took another calming breathe.
"I said, that the team won't be forming because Naruto won't be here."
Mei immediately closed her eyes.
'There, I said it.'
Even though her eyes were closed, Mei could feel the glare coming from her newly adoptive daughter. Slowly but surely the temperature began to decrease, to the point that everyone's breath became visible.
"And why is that Mizukage-sama?"
'Sigh'
"Out of all three of you, Naruto needs the most work on Kenjutsu seeing as he never had a teacher. From what I've been lead to believe his style is a bastardized version of Hiruzen Sarutobi's Bojutsu style. So, for the next six months, each of you will train separately before joining as a team. Naruto with Zabuza, mainly working on Kenjutsu. Chojuro will be working with Ao and Shark, your focus will be your chakra reserves and Ninjutsu. I will be working with you, Haku, on your bloodline. You will also be doing some training at the hospital as a medic."
Haku's anger was temporarily forgotten.
"How can you help with my bloodline?"
Mei smiled internally at the girl's lack of anger.
"I have Lava and Boil where you have Ice. I can assist you in gaining control of an advanced element since I have already done that with two. Simply speaking, I will guide you."
"But why can't he train here?"
Mei smiled evilly and Zabuza gulped while trying to sneak away.
"Ask Zabuza, he requested it."
The room temperature dropped again, this time even colder.
"Why would you do that?"
Zabuza, having seen an angry Haku before spoke quickly.
"I was worried that training would be hindered if you were together. I wanted to be sure that this team is as well prepared as possible."
Naruto managed to calm Haku down while Zabuza spoke.
"When do you leave?"
"Tomorrow."
Tears began to slowly fall from her chocolate eyes.
"Is there any other bad news or can I go spend the rest of his time here, with my husband."
"Go ahead. Naruto pack your essentials and be at the gate at dawn."
"Hai Zabuza-sensei."
Both Haku and Naruto walked out of the room, leaving Mei, Zabuza and Chojuro.
"Your dismissed too Chojuro. Ao wants you to report at Anbu headquarters at noon tomorrow."
"Hai Mizukage-sama."
Chojuro simply bowed and left.
As soon as the room was clear, Mei turned to Zabuza, tears brimming in her eyes.
"Do you have to go? It hurts her as much as it hurts me."
Zabuza walked up and whipped away a stray tear from her cheek with his thumb.
"Ya, he could be the greatest ninja Kiri ever produced and if I hinder that because I don't want to leave the bed of my lover, then I can't call myself a Kiri shinobi."
"Hai…"
"Lets follow the kid's example and make to most out of our time together."
Mei gave a sexy smile before closing her blinds and locking the door.
"I think it is time to christen this desk hmm?"
"I like the way you think."
Their last night in Kiri proved to be adventurous for both Naruto and Zabuza and both of their wives decided to try and remember as much of their man as possible, though in admittedly different ways.
The next morning, at the main gate, a sad scene could be found.
"You will be back, right?"
Naruto just tightens his grip around his wife.
"Of course. I don't know how I'll survive without you."
The two engage in a slow, loving kiss.
"Are you sure this is the only way?"
Unfortunately, Mei has a responsibility to appear strong in front of her soldiers. She doesn't have the privilege of grabbing onto her lover for dear life and letting her tears fall.
"I'm sorry."
Zabuza gives Mei, one quick kiss and hug before turning to the young couple.
"Lets go GakI, we have a long journey ahead of us…If you get strong enough for my satisfaction then we will return early."
Haku gave Naruto one more quick kiss before leaning up to his ear and whispering.
"You better get strong real quick because I'm gonna go crazy without you."
"I will, don't worry."
With their goodbyes said, Naruto and Zabuza began their journey…
36 hours! They had been running for 36 hours without a single break.
The worst part was that Zabuza still seemed fresh while Naruto was nearly out of chakra.
"How*pant* much*pant* longer?"
Zabuza just looked back with an evil smirk.
"About an hour…Then you get a taste of your real training."
Naruto gave a determined nod. Every time he thought about giving up, Haku's tear streamed face would enter his mind. He needed to get as strong as possible as fast a possible.
With determination brimming, Naruto actually picked up the pace and began to overtake Zabuza much to his shock.
That is until he formed a smirk.
"Can't wait to get home to your girl huh?"
Zabuza was shocked when he saw the fire in Naruto's eyes.
"Six months? I'll do it four."
Naruto continued to pull away until Zabuza snapped out of his shock.
"Hah, I think I'm gonna like training you GakI."
For the last hour of the run. Naruto just kept increasing his pace. He knew it was stupid, but he was going to get stronger.
When Naruto saw that they were approaching a beach, he was sure they were done.
Slowly, Naruto decreased his pace. However, he was shocked when Zabuza kept right on going, straight over the water.
Sighing tiredly, Naruto picked up his pace again and ran after him.
Thirty minutes of water running, and Naruto is about ready to pass out.
However, Zabuza just increased his pace. Naruto noticed, he seemed to running right for a cloud of fog. Unsure of what was going on, Naruto followed the man closely.
No more than thirty seconds into the mist did Naruto find himself on land. He instantly dropped to a knee, unable to stand.
"Wha-"
Naruto relized that this mist was even thicker than his Choking Fog.
Zabuza was able to easily sense the boy's question.
"This, GakI, is known as the Island of Fog. Every time there is a prospective member of the Seven, an existing member must bring them here and they must live for however long the man dictates, living by only sound. This island holds this mist, no level of wind jutsu can dispel it for more than a second. Now, our training begins!"
Naruto attempted to stand several times, but his legs just kept giving out.
'Lets see how good his stamina truly is.'
"I thought you were going to be home to see Haku-chan in four months. If that's the best you can do, we might as well stop now because I'm not wasting my time."
Zabuza watched as he pulled Kubikiribocho off his back and stabbed it into the ground.
'Damn it! Stand. I will succeed. I will see my beloved soon. I. WILL. NOT. FAIL!'
Naruto barely made it to his feet by climbing his sword.
"What's next?"
"Come at me with everything you have. All shinobi arts."
Nodding tiredly, yet determinedly, gripping Kubikiribocho tighter, Naruto charged. It was sloppy but quick.
Naruto's downward slash was easily knocked away.
"You will have to do better."
Naruto continued to attempt to overtake him with Kenjutsu but couldn't.
'My muscles are to sore to wield my sword, I don't have the chakra for Ninjutsu, I don't know any Genjutsu…I'm gonna have to use Ninjutsu. I'll just stick with one that don't require much chakra.'
In his tiredness, Naruto's hand seal speed was pathetic.
"Water Release: Gunshot"
Zabuza didn't even have to bother dodging the water bullets since they missed by over 10 feet. However, as soon as he was done, he heard a light thump. Naruto was passed out in the sand.
"About time, his stamina is ok… so, chakra control, hand seal speed, and Kenjutsu… that's about it. I also need to get him to the point of even on the verge of death, his hearing will act as his sight."
Zabuza spent the next twenty minutes setting up the camp they will remain at for as long as they needed.
When he was finished, he decided to go get some sleep as well.
Back in Kiri
"DAMN YOU ZABUZA!"
Haku continues to lay on her bed, unable to sleep. Her sheets and pillows are all over the floor from tossing and turning.
"We've only slept in the same bed four times and already I can't sleep without him…how pathetic am I?"
Knock Knock Knock
"Who the hell could that be? It's like two in the morning."
Haku gets out of bed, makes sure she is decent and opens the door.
"Mizukage-sama? Is something the matter?"
Mei attempts a disarming smile but it comes out as more of a tired grimace.
"No, just can't sleep… Haven't been able to since they left…you know?"
Haku nods understandingly.
"Come in, do you want some tea or anything."
"Sure that would be nice."
So Mei takes a seat at their small table while Haku goes and makes some tea.
"I like what you've done with the place…I figured you and Naruto wouldn't have gotten anything done…Well except each other."
Mei giggled when Haku's face turned red.
Haku turned and mumbled something.
"What was that?"
"I did this last night when I couldn't sleep…I just can't stop wishing for his arms to be around me…For me to be able to rest my head on his chest and have his heart lull me to sleep."
Mei's giggling stopped at Haku's confession.
"I know what you mean. I went years without him, but now that he is back… I want him at my side at all times."
"Mizu…"
Haku was interrupted by Mei.
Mei gave Haku her charming smile.
"When we are alone like this…Just Mei."
"Hai, Mei…Zabuza never told me how you two met…"
Mei gave a far away smile.
"I doubt he would, He was never one to share more than he had to. My family used to be nobles here in Kiri. They had strict rules about not being able to start training until being 10 years old… So, I was way behind my classmates. Zabuza had just done his deed. He was almost instantly accepted into the Seven Swordsmen. Well, I approached him one day after class to ask for training…He laughed at me, I got so mad I was about to spit a lava ball in his face before I calmed down and walked away. He was an orphan, needless to say he didn't like that I had a better childhood then him. Then he said it… 'Gonna go cry to mommy and get the council to make me? Good luck I'm a member of the Seven Swordsmen. Only the Mizukage can order me to do something.' The worst part was that he was right… I had every intention of having my family make him train me…At that point I followed him around. As soon as I got out of school I would follow him, do all the same training, everything. Eventually, I impressed him...The rest is history."
"That sounds like Zabuza."
The two spent all night, sitting on the couch talking until they both eventually passed out, feeling slightly better than when they were alone.
With Zabuza
"Wake up GakI!"
Naruto slowly opened his eyes and looked around, only he saw nothing but mist.
"Uhhh… Where am I?"
"Heh, remember, we ran from Kiri to an island where I ordered you to attack me."
A light went off in Naruto's head.
"Oh yea, I remember attacking you but that's it."
Zabuza just shook his head.
"You passed out in the middle of performing a Ninjutsu…"
"Oh, so…I guess I have a lot of work to do?"
"Yea you do…your stamina is good for a high Chunin or low Jonin. What we need to work on, is your Chakra Control, Kenjutsu skill, and hand seal speed. Outside of that, we may spend some time working on strength and speed."
Naruto nodded with determination in his eyes.
"When do we…Hey what's that?"
Following the blonde's eyes, Zabuza gave his normal smirk and grabbed the handle sticking over his shoulder. He easily hefted the zanbatou over his head. It was about the same length and width as Kubikiribocho but was straight, with a 45 degree angle as a point.(Buster Sword)
"This…Is the sword I used before Sensei died and I held onto Kubi…She never chose me, merely allowed me to use a small portion of her power until her next true wielder was found…You."
"Now. No more questions. Go stand in the surf, I want you to use your chakra to hold you still as waves pass. At the same time, I have 6 clones on the shore, you are to kill them with thrown weapons. I'll cook breakfast, you can eat in thirty minutes."
"Hai, Zabuza-sensei."
Zabuza cooks some fish he caught, all the while watching Naruto.
Zabuza chuckled when he heard a particularly large wave followed by a short yell and a splash.
'His chakra control is good for the amount he has, but he wasted to much when we were running, he should be able to run for days without getting tired.'
Thirty minutes later and Zabuza is finished with breakfast.
Zabuza watched as three shuriken flew from Naruto and dispersed his last clone.
"Hey GakI, come eat so we can start your real training."
"Hai, Zabuza-sensei."
The two ate quickly, not even attempting to make conversation.
"The first thing you will do is, I want you to be able to go through the hand seals for Water Release: Gunshot Jutsu before I can reach you from seven feet away, seven hand seals seven feet, ready begin."
Zabuza instantly began charging but Naruto hesitated on performing the Jutsu. That earned him a hard punch to the stomach that knocked the air out of him.
"If you hesitate, you die…"
For six hours, the two performed the same routine, Naruto attempting to finish his Jutsu and Zabuza attempting to hit him. Towards the end, Naruto was finally able to do it.
"Ok, now I want you to get in position exactly how I do, I will correct anything you do wrong."
Naruto nods and drops into his position, it is a wide stance with his sword sticking straight out to his side.
"Not bad, shift your front foot…"
For four months that is exactly how things progressed, and not that Zabuza would admit it, but he was proud of the kid, he was improving by leaps and bounds. He had learned his personal Kenjutsu style, even began working on his own twist to it. His hand seal speed was off the charts and his chakra control was slightly better.
Naruto woke up and was about to head straight to the water to work on chakra control while Zabuza cooked breakfast, but he was stopped before he could.
"Hold up GakI, do you know what today is?"
Naruto gives a cocky smirk.
"The day we go home…"
"If you meet my standards, than yes, we will be going home, other wise we will finish out our time here."
Zabuza heaved his sword from it's temporary sand sheath.
"Well then, come at me with everything you got."
Naruto immediately charged with a downward slash that Zabuza blocked.
Naruto pushed with all his might…However, the older male was just to strong to be forced back.
Using his longer reach, Zabuza lashed out with his foot in an attempt to score the first hit, however, Naruto was ready for it and dodged the kick. With the lack of weight pushing down on his sword, Zabuza was forced slightly off balance. However, even a Genin taught by the legendary 'God of Shinobi', that was enough. Naruto managed to use the tall man's lack of balance to trip the Jonin.
The second Zabuza hit the ground, he was forced to roll to the side, or lose his head as Naruto brought the sword down, right where his neck had been.
Zabuza rolled several more times.
Naruto saw that Zabuza had stopped his rolling and was about to stand. Deciding to capitalize on the time Zabuza would need to stand, Naruto charged. He was however, caught off guard when Zabuza did a hand stand and kicked him right under the chin.
The force lifted the teen off the ground and into the air about eight feet. That wasn't all, while the blonde was falling. Zabuza performed his fastest Ninjutsu.
"Water Release: Gunshot Jutsu"
Seeing the water bullets about to hit, Naruto quickly switched with a water clone. When the clone was gone, Naruto was no where to be seen.
A smirk made it's way onto Zabuza's face.
"So, that's how you want to do this?"
Quickly turning, Zabuza's blade met Kubikiribocho.
"No!"
The Naruto he was facing dissolved into water.
From across the shore, Naruto flashes through hand seals at a speed well above any average Jonin. Zabuza still couldn't believe the speed the Genin could perform any Ninjutsu in his arsenal.
"Water Release: Water Dragon Missile Jutsu!"
Water from the ocean rises, forming a giant water dragon with glowing golden eyes.
Zabuza smirks and jumps, straight into the air. His sword was brought right onto the water construct's head, returning it to the ocean.
"Not bad, but not good enou-"
Zabuza just barely brings his sword up in time to block Naruto's swing. However, man's eyes widen when he notices Naruto's bulged cheeks.
The water bullet that Naruto fired was dyed red when it impacted Zabuza's face, breaking the man's nose.
"First blood, I win."
As if to accent the point, Naruto nodded down to the puddle of water that was dyed red with the Jonin's blood.
"Congratulations. It is with great pride when I say that you are now worthy of being one of the Seven. Lets go home."
In Kiri
Two of Kiri's most beautiful and powerful women stood across from each other in a field, both panting and bleeding.
Their battle was fierce, as the patches of burning grass and fallen trees can attest to.
One had hair that was black as night and reached her middle back, however, it was kept secure by a tight braid. Her dark chocolate eyes held a kindness in them, a kindness she wasn't showing to her opponent. She was a slender woman her body the epitome of fitness and beauty. In her hands was a sword that anybody who knew anything about Kiri or Kenjutsu would know. It was long, about three and a half feet, thin, with a very sharp point. The most distinguishing aspect was the line of wire trailing behind her. She was Haku Momochi-Uzumaki, daughter of the Mizukage and wife of Naruto Uzumaki.
Across the field was arguably, the strongest Kunoichi in the elemental nations. She had long russet red hair down to her ankles, shining jade eyes, and a curvy body that didn't belong on a warrior. Even though her hands were empty, she was far from unarmed. She was Mei Momochi, wife of Zabuza Momochi and the Godaime Mizukage.
Mei smiled at Haku.
"Lets call it a day."
"No, I must get stronger. For Naruto-kun!"
Haku was in front of Mei almost instantly.
Her attempts crisp and accurate. However, they weren't enough. No matter what she did, it was dodged.
Mei continued to dodge the strikes. Not as easily as four months ago, but they were dodged none the less.
As Mei kept dodging, Haku began to get discouraged however, the second it began, she thought back to two months ago.
*Flashback*
Mei and Haku were training, very similar to how they were currently, however, there was an air of happiness around them. That was to end when they both sensed an unfamiliar and powerful presence very close by. To close in fact.
"Hello ladies."
Both Kunoichi were shocked that the voice came from so close. As soon as they turned they were greeted with the sight of one of very few S-class ninja that weren't a Kage or Missing Nin.
"Jiraiya of the Sennin. What are you doing here? This could be seen as espionage against an allied village, destroying the bond between our villages seeing as I know I never allowed you to enter Kiri."
Jiraiya didn't seem bothered by her threat.
"Where is Naruto?"
Mei was put-out that her question went ignored.
"You didn't answer my question."
Jiraiya just gave what he thought was a sexy smirk. It was actually just a perverse smile.
"Well, you didn't answer mine."
'sigh'
'I can't imagine Konoha wanting to hurt our alliance already.'
"He is on a training trip with Zabuza."
Jiraiya nodded but seemed in thought.
"Where did they go?"
"First you tell me why you want to know."
Jiraiya and Mei were in the middle of a staring contest when Haku spoke up in a deadly tone.
"If you don't tell me why you are seeking my husband, you won't leave this village alive. I don't care how strong you are, I don't care what your village could do to mine. Nobody threatens my husband and gets away with it. Now, what is it you want."
As if to accentuate her point, she slowly drew her sword back to prepare to attack.
Jiraiya was almost scared of her.
"He is in danger and I wish to warn him."
"Danger from who?"
Jiraiya shook his head no.
"Not here, somewhere secure."
The three took a quick run to the Mizukage's office where Jiraiya was quick to install several security seals.
"Ok, are you both aware of his tenant?"
Both nodded.
"Are you both aware of his heritage?"
Both nodded.
"A group called Akatsuki are after him."
Mei went into Mizukage mode.
"What do they want with Naruto? Surely there are more high-profile targets out there."
"The tailed beasts… they are after Kyubbi and all the others."
Haku and Mei were speechless.
Mei broke out of her stupor first.
"Do you know if they have found Ukitake, the holder of the Six-tail? How powerful are they?"
Jiraiya sighed.
"They haven't. I have reason to believe that Itachi Uchiha and Kisame Hoshigaki are members, and that Orochimaru of the Sennin was a member at one point."
This got wide eyes from Mei and an emotionless stare from Haku.
"What do they want with the tailed beasts?"
Jiraiya just shook his head sadly.
"I don't know…The only reason I know as much as I do is because two men, matching the descriptions of Itachi and Kisame had spoken with one of my informants about the location of the Six and Nine Tailed Jinchuuriki…A few years back during one of my searches for Orochimaru, he was seen wearing the same thing… a black cloak with red clouds. However, that's not all. I have reason to believe, that Iwa has been told of his heritage. If I know that old, stubborn bastard as well as I think I do, then he won't care about the boy. However, he must keep up his soldiers' moral. If that means killing one teenage boy, then he won't hesitate."
Both Mei and Jiraiya were surprised when Haku started walking away.
It was Jiraiya who called out to her.
"Where are you going?"
When Haku turned back to them, they were shocked by the anger and determination her eyes held.
"If I'm going to show those fools what happens when someone threatens my husband…I need to get stronger."
Haku took off in a run back towards the Mizukage's training ground.
*End Flashback*
Haku's determination was renewed and she began striking out, faster, swifter, and cleaner.
Mei was hard pressed to continue dodging.
'She is getting better every day…Incredible.'
In an impressively acrobatic display, Mei bent backwards until she could perform a hand stand, as she did so, she lashed her foot out and kicked Haku's hand, forcing her to drop the sword.
However, Haku wasn't done. She flashed through several hand seals at low Jonin speed.
"Ice Release: Thousand Flying Needles"
The water from the natural mist in the air suddenly formed hundreds of small senbon out of ice. The needles immediately were sent at the Kage.
Knowing she couldn't dodge them all, Mei flashed through her own hand seals at a speed that was still a blur to Haku.
"Earth Release: Mud Dome Jutsu"
Mei spit out mud that formed a protective dome around her.
"Your getting better."
Haku did not take it as a compliment. She was about to charge at Mei with the nearby alarm clock rang.
"Alright, that's it for the day."
Haku looked like she wanted to complain, but simply nodded.
As the two made their way back to Mei's clan compound, they talked about this and that, most of it focusing on when Naruto and Zabuza would be back.
Little did they know that the subject of their conversation would be walking through the main gate, any minute now.
With Naruto and Zabuza
Both Naruto and Zabuza were dripping with sweat and almost out of chakra. That 36 hour trip out there was almost done and it had only been about 27 hours. Needless to say, both were reaching their limits.
Their already grueling pace increased when they passed a small travelers shop that was only a few miles out of Kiri.
So, traveling at a pace that would make most Jonin's head spin, Naruto and Zabuza went even faster.
'Haku, I'm almost there.'
They both passed through the gates as fast as possible and made a bee-line for their lovers.
As soon as Naruto arrived in his home, his heart dropped.
It looked like nobody had lived there in years. More likely would be four months…the amount of time since he left.
Just as despair was about to sink in, he registered the arms wrapped around him from behind, he internally noted that his shirt was getting wet.
When he finally came to his senses, he quickly spun and wrapped his wife in the tightest hug he could.
Even with his relief, a nagging voice in his head kept asking where she had been sleeping.
"Why does it look like nobody has been here since I left?"
Haku shook her head without letting go of him, tears of joy still falling from her eyes.
"I couldn't sleep alone…it was driving me nuts. Eventually Mei came over and was having the same problem, she agreed to allow me to stay in her guest bedroom."
Seeing her tear streamed face, hearing her confession. It hurt more than any blow Zabuza had ever given him.
"I'm sorry, I will never leave you again."
"Your damn right, because I won't let you."
And so, just like that, Naruto and Haku, fell asleep, finally in the arms of the one they love.
Both Naruto and Haku slept longer that night than either had in four months.
Haku gave a soft smile as she woke up. However, her smile didn't last long after her eyes opened. She was alone, her husband no where to been found.
She quickly got up and the house was clean, the four months of dust, gone…
Thanks to her fragile emotional state, her rational mind was out the window. The preverbal nail in the coffin as it were, was the calendar on the wall dated for 5 days after her new husband left.
"It…it was a-a dream, he only just left."
Haku was unable to stop the sobs from racking her body. She curled up on the bed and cried.
"It-it seemed so real, like all this time happened…"
"Haku are you alright?"
The second she heard the concerned voice she stopped. Looking up, she was unable to stop herself from jumping at her blonde haired husband.
"I thought it was a dream, that you were still gone. God knows I dreamt about your return…"
Naruto just held her for several minutes before breaking them apart and looking deep into her puffy brown eyes.
"Don't worry, as I said, I will never leave you again."
Without warning, her sad, brown eyes turned into the intense, sharp brown eyes of an experienced shinobi.
"We need to speak with Mei, there is something you must know."
Hand in hand, they made their way across the yard to the main house. Haku knocked and it wasn't long before Mei answered in a bath robe. Zabuza's complaints could be heard from their room.
Mei smiled at them before giving Naruto a friendly hug.
"So, have you two got reacquainted?"
Naruto's face got bright red while Haku, who was used to the red haired Kage's teasing, just got a tinge of pink.
"Yes, but we are here to discuss something important."
Mei's playful demeanor disappeared in its place was the Mizukage.
"Zabuza, get some clothes on and come to the dining room."
Hearing her serious tone, Zabuza immediately complied.
Two minutes later, Zabuza was sitting at the table with the others.
"What's this about?"
Mei took a deep breath.
"Two months ago…"
And so, Mei informed them of Akatsuki and their goals. Afterwards, Naruto and Zabuza were speechless.
'Kisame is a member of Akatsuki…Kisame was stronger than Zabuza when he was at his peak…'
'That kid is going to need to be stronger if he wants any chance of standing up against Kisame, a lot stronger…Unfortunately I have taught him everything I can.'
After some quiet time, Naruto spoke up.
"You said that they were just trying to get the locations of all the Jinchuuriki now right?"
Mei nodded.
"Then we should be fine…We just need to get stronger."
The four continued to discuss their options when Naruto brought up a valid question.
"Do we tell Chojuro? This way he will know what he is getting into."
Mei thought for a few minutes.
"No, we will tell him later. No need to worry him. If to many people know, then word could get to them, causing them to change plans. For now, train hard. The day after tomorrow you will be having your first official team meeting. Be at training ground 14 at noon."
Everyone agreed before heading to their respective bedrooms to continue their earlier tasks.
Naruto and Haku spent their day off together. Their primary task was to replace all of Naruto's destroyed clothes and gear…spending four months on an island with four pairs of clothes and one set of kunai, needless to say they were trash.
When they were done, Naruto's wardrobe remained relatively unchanged.
He wore a sleeveless black shirt that had a burnt orange Uzumaki Swirl on the back. With a white belt across his chest to carry Kubikiribocho. For pants he had white and black camouflage pants with a ninja tool pouch on his right hip. On his feet, he bought a new pair of black shinobi sandals. His hair was now even shorter, closer to that of Zabuza.
Naruto couldn't help but notice the looks of respect he received.
"The way they look at me, why do you think they do it?"
Haku was content just holding onto him.
"I don't know, could be the alliance you brought, it could even be the Kyubbi…"
Naruto gave her a disbelieving look.
"Hey it could be…This isn't Konoha you know. "
"No, that's not it. Even under the respect, I can see the underlining of fear. Its small, but it's there."
The two walked towards their home in silence before Naruto interrupted the peace.
"I bet it's the sword."
"Hmm?"
"The sword, it is one of the famous seven. It's part of Kiri's history."
Haku nodded.
"That's possible too, now, it doesn't matter. Lets get home and I will give you a massage."
Haku couldn't stop laughing when Naruto threw her over his shoulder and began sprinting towards their home.
Next day Training Ground 14
At 11:30 am, Naruto and Haku walk onto the training ground and see a blue haired boy with glasses, meditating on a small pond.
Naruto calls out to his new teammate.
"Hey Chojuro, we're not late are we?"
Chojuro looks up and gives a slight smile while standing to go meet his team on land.
"Depends on who you ask. According to most, your thirty minutes early. According to Ao-sensei, your thirty minutes late, he is very strict about being at least an hour early to any meeting, it allows you to either set up traps or check for traps."
Naruto gave him a blank stare before busting out laughing.
"It must have been fun training under him."
Chojuro shrugged.
"Fun? Definitely not. Worth the trouble, absolutely. I am considerably stronger than before."
Naruto got a dangerous glint in his eye.
"How much stronger?"
In a rare show of confidence, Chojuro stepped forward.
"Strong enough to beat you."
Naruto looked excited.
"HA lets see."
Chojuro began stepping back to get proper distance.
"Your on…anything goes?"
Naruto gave him an 'are you stupid look'
"Is there any other way to fight."
Haku just shook her head and sighed as she walked to the edge of the training ground, all the while muttering about how dumb boys can be.
When Haku finally got to the tree line, she was surprised to see Zabuza and Mei, just sitting on a fallen tree.
"Why are you guys over here?"
Mei just smiled.
"This is something they need to figure out for themselves."
Haku was now genuinely confused, so Zabuza filled her in.
"I don't think even they know it. But they are fighting for the leadership position. The winner of this fight will be the teams unofficial leader."
Haku's eyes went wide at that.
Back in the center of the training ground, both Naruto and Chojuro removed their swords from their backs.
Naruto glared competitively.
"Ready for this?"
Chojuro gave a slight nod.
"I was born ready."
In the blink of an eye, their swords met between them as they both struggled to over power the other.
In brute strength, Naruto was the clear victor. However, Chojuro was making his sword's ability known as it kept giving off waves of chakra every time he would gain ground.
Quickly spinning to the side and allowing Chojuro's sword to impact the ground, creating a small crater in the process. Naruto caught the blue haired swordsman in the chin with a backhand. Attempting to follow through, Naruto brought his sword around and tried to remove his head from his body.
As soon as Chojuro saw his opponent's plan, he had already come up with a tactic that was sure to surprise him enough to allow him the victory.
Channeling chakra into his own sword, Chojuro formed a protective shield around himself that Naruto's sword simply bounced off.
As soon as the threat of decapitation was ended, Chojuro commanded the shield to form his sword's famous hammer.
Swinging the chakra-hammer, Chojuro was actually surprised and disappointed when he struck Naruto in the chest.
His disappointment turned to shock when 'Naruto' turned to water.
His shock ended when he heard a shout.
"Water Release: Water Dragon Missile Jutsu"
Chojuro turned to see the biggest water dragon he had ever seen, it seemed like one out of the horror stories of Kisame.
Mentally commanding his hammer to reform the shield. Chojuro was relieved when the water dragon was dispersed on his chakra shield. However, the speed he was forced to move the shield took a lot of chakra, something he was sure Naruto noticed.
Naruto took stock of the situation.
'I saw him form the shield before, it barely effected him. Why does he seem so much more tired now? I'll have to keep an eye on it.'
Chojuro, being no slouch in Water Ninjutsu flashed through his own hand seals while Naruto was distracted.
"Water Release: Great Waterfall Jutsu"
Water from the pond gathered over Chojuro before shooting towards Naruto.
Naruto simply released the chakra keeping him on the surface of the water and sunk to the bottom of the pond where he applied chakra to stick to the bottom.
Feeling the water around him begin to rest after being disturbed by Chojuro's impressive display of Water Ninjutsu. He was about to surface when he saw Chojuro venture onto the water.
Getting a wicked smirk, Naruto flashed through some of his favorite hand seals.
'Water Release: Five Eating Sharks Jutsu.'
Unfortunately, Chojuro was expecting something like this, so when the sharks attacked him, he turned to water.
'Damn, Water Clone.'
Deciding to take the fight to him, Naruto shot out of the water, and right to where he believed Chojuro was. It proved he was right.
Though his downward slash was blocked, but Naruto was able to heel kick Chojuro back a few feet.
The Kenjutsu fight that followed was nothing less than spectacular. Proving exactly why they were the future of the seven.
Eventually though, keeping up the hammer for to long caused Chojuro to run low on chakra and without the extra strength provided from his sword, he was quickly over powered.
Chojuro was knocked onto his back by Naruto hitting him with the flat side of his blade. When Chojuro looked up, Naruto had his giant sword pointing right at his neck.
"I surrender."
Naruto gave a small smile and helped Chojuro up, both panting.
Suddenly, clapping was heard and when they looked around, Zabuza, Mei, Haku and most of the Hunter nin and Anbu were there as well. Apparently the levels of chakra they were putting out gathered a lot of attention.
Both just smiled sheepishly, neither really used to the attention.
However, Zabuza quickly got fed up with waiting for them to leave.
"GET OUT OF HERE! WE HAVE A TEAM MEETING TO CONDUCT!"
Zabuza is scary. That fact was obvious when Kiri's strongest ninja fled like sheep in a wolves den.
The only ones left was the new team and the Mizukage.
Mei leaned over and gave Zabuza a quick kiss.
"See you tonight hun, take it easy on them. It's there first day."
Zabuza just grumbled about ruining his scary introduction.
"Alright, before we get started with any real training, I want you each to introduce yourselves. Name, likes, dreams, the whole nine yards. Haku, you first."
"My name is Haku Momochi-Uzumaki. I like my husband, Naruto, 'father' , Zabuza, and my 'mother', Mizukage-sama. I dislike killing if it is not necessary. My dream is to have a large family."
Zabuza nodded.
"Ok, now you Chojuro."
"My name is Chojuro, no surname. I'm an orphan from the war. I like training, Ao-sensei and Mizukage-sama. I dislike war. My dream is to restore the Seven Swordsmen to their former glory."
"Ok, Naruto."
"My name is Naruto Uzumaki. I love my wife, Haku and like my sensei, Zabuza, I also like training. I dislike people who allow their hatred to consume them. My dream is to become strong enough to fight and beat each of the five Kage."
Zabuza nodded at that, it was after all a dream he had once had.
"Alright, we already know each other's abilities so lets just go get a mission."
The three students nod.
It doesn't take long for them to arrive at the first floor of the Mizukage Tower, where missions are given.
When Zabuza and his team walk in, the Chunin bowed to them.
"What rank mission would you like for your team?"
Zabuza appeared in thought for a minute.
"Lets start off easy…"
The man began reaching for a D-rank when Zabuza just picked up a folder off the B-rank stack and began reading.
"This will do, thanks."
Meanwhile, both the Chunin and the students were shocked.
'B-rank to start off easy?'
The adventure of Team Swordsmen begins.
Alright, that's it…Let me know what you think.