Chapter 26
Journey to the land of waves.
Team number seven was on another rank D mission, the task was to find a cat named Tora. Tora was the pet of the wife of the daima of the Fire Nation. And so the team acted coherently, while taking a walkie-talkie with them, to regulate their actions.
Naruto... Guys, come in, the target is heading west to the alley behind the diner, the trap is set, we need to get him into that alley.
Sasuke... Copy that, I'm going to intercept the trail, Sakura, you're tasked with keeping the cat from escaping from the south side, the north side is a dead end.
The cat was, as expected, chased into an alley and Naruto pulled the fishing line so that the cat was trapped in a cocoon of fishing line. Naruto jumped off the roof and took the cat by the fishing lines.
Naruto... Yes, the trap has been sprung, Kakashi sensei, team number seven has completed the task of capturing Tora's cat. Distinguishing feature, the bow on the left ear is present, awaiting your further instructions.
Kakashi... All right guys, you can go to the residence, I'll be right there.
As Naruto was approached by the rest of the co-commanders, Sakura began to whimper.
Sakura... Naruto is an idiot, why are you torturing this poor animal? You could have untied the lines.
Naruto... Hmm, well, if you don't like my methods, you can pick her up yourself, catch her.
With those words, Naruto untied the fishing line and threw the cupcake directly into Sakura's hands. The cat immediately started freaking out and ripping me out of my hands.
Sakura.. Naruto, are you crazy? Why did you throw it to me, it's dangerous! Calm down, kitty cat!
Sakura tried to calm the cat down, and even got scratched. Naruto shrugged and continued.
Naruto... Sakura, you contradict yourself, then a poor animal, then a dangerous animal, carry yourself!
Naruto was sick of Sakura's illogical actions and on top of that, her explosive temper on and off.
Sasuke's thoughts... Geez, Sakura, when are you going to learn to think before you speak!
The team came to the rezincia and handed the cat to the customer, at which point Kakashi walked in and stood behind them. Madame Shijimi hugged her pet and almost kissed it.
Shijimi... Oh, Tora chan, I missed you so much, don't run away again.
The team looked at this scene with a kind of disgust.
Naruto... Hokage herself, is it just me or has this cat been on the run before?
Minato... Uh, well, the cat often ran away from its owner, so the Gennins had to catch it.
Kakashi... Mma, Minato san, my team has already completed the mission for today, is there anything else?
Naruto's thoughts... Oh, I forgot, I promised I'd take the harder mission.
Minato started going through the assignment slips.
Minato... All right, kids, I think you've got a couple more missions for today.
Naruto had warned Sasuke about this and he could back up in case of anything.
Naruto... The Hokage herself, why don't you give me a harder mission?
Minato's thoughts... It's ripe, son, I thought I'd never get there, but don't just say yes.
Minato... Naruto, you've only recently become a genin, and the assignments are for genins with the appropriate rank.
Naruto's thoughts... Oh, the Hokage isn't so simple himself, but okay, let's go to the other side.
Naruto... Hokage herself, I understand why genin are given tasks of a mostly mundane nature.
Minato... Oh, why don't you enlighten me?
Naruto.. For example, weeding a vegetable garden, this skill will help us in the future, digging trenches for fighting. Collecting garbage in the sewer and stinking ditch, I assume that on missions we will face a situation where we have to climb into such a stinking hole that the smell from it will be washed away for weeks. Today's mission to catch a ferocious cat, we may be given a future mission to catch a particularly dangerous and dodgy criminal. And finally, you give away the missions that the civilians order from you. The world of shinobi is fundamentally different from the rest of the world, in some countries we are considered just a myth, as without pre-registration and guide, our village, is not easy to find. You're giving us a mission with mutual interaction with ordinary civilians, to increase communication. And an untrained ninja can accidentally kill an ordinary person if he doesn't calculate his strength. I think our training isn't over, but we've already completed over twenty D rank missions. I'm asking you for a more challenging mission, to increase experience, with interaction with territory beyond our village.
Everyone present, listening to this tirade, began to open their mouths.
Minato's thoughts... Eh, everyone would think the same as you.
Kakashi's thoughts... Yeah, Minato sensei, were you thinking of replaying it?
Minato... I don't mind, but what does the rest of your team say?
Sasuke's thoughts... Damn, hokage herself, it would be better to just agree.
Sakura's thoughts... Wow, so this whole thing was really a learning experience.
Naruto looked at the others with a questioning face.
Sasuke... I'm in!
Sakura hesitated, but Sasuke's stern gaze had already decided everything for her.
Sakura... I agree, too.
Minato breathed a sigh of relief.
Minato... Kakashi?
Kakashi.. Mma, I think the answer is obvious, sensei.
Minato... All right, Tazuna san, come on in!
A man of old age entered the office, his appearance was not very good, to put it mildly, because of his puffy eyes and strong breath. Naruto even wrinkled his face. Tazuna looked at the team and gave out a raspy sigh.
Tazuna... And these are the ninjas who are supposed to protect me? They're kids, I don't like you, especially that white-haired one.
Tazuna pointed at Naruto, but Naruto decided to teach that old man a lesson and pointed at Minato.
Naruto... How dare you treat the Hokage herself like that, you could be jailed for disrespecting our village head...
Tazuna nearly choked on his alcohol and began frantically swiping at his hands.
Tazuna... Oh hokage-sama, sorry, I didn't mean you!
Minato's thoughts... That little bastard, not even had time to get acquainted and already put in the place of the old man, and at the same time brought me, thank you son, I will not forget this ...
Minato... Nothing... All right team, your job is to escort the architect Tazuna San to the Land of Waves.
Tazuna... Will they be able to protect me on the way to the land of waves?
Kakashi... This is a simple rank C mission, are regular brigands supposed to be on this mission, or do you have other suspicions about it?
The architect stammered at this point, which didn't escape Naruto's attention.
Naruto's thoughts... Whoa, that's interesting.
Naruto... Oh, do not fear Tazun san, we are genin, but we are still stronger than you.
Tazuna didn't answer anything to that and just remained silent.
Kakashi... All right, team, meet tomorrow morning at the west gate.
The whole team along with the architect left the office, but Kakashi was collapsing to clarify some nuances.
Kakashi... Sensei, why all the fuss about asking Naruto about the D-rank assignments?
Minato... I wanted the rest of you to realize the importance of these assignments.
Kakashi... Mma, okay, I think this assignment will go smoothly.
Minato looked at Kakashi with a pleading look on his face
Minato... Kakashi, I realize that Naruto has a lot of experience with such tasks. But still, be careful.
Kakashi couldn't understand the logic behind Sensei's decisions, he hadn't a clue about his son for 11 years, and now he cared for him like a little kid. But one thing he realized, Minato did everything for the good of the village.
Kakashi... Sensei, you're getting a little overprotective of Naruto. Aren't you afraid he might find out?
Minato... I can't help myself. Because of what I did, I can't forgive myself for it. As soon as I see him, I want to atone, every day he's lived alone and without parental comfort.
Kakashi... Mma, you know sensei, you're the strangest family I've ever seen in my life.
Minato smirked at that comment.
Minato... Of course she wasn't weird.
Kakashi... Hmm, okay sensei, I'll do my best.
Minato... Good luck!
Naruto gathered his team at the monument and began the introductions.
Naruto... Guys, I don't like this old man, he's not telling me the truth, so prepare yourselves.
Sasuke realized it could be much more serious and decided to elaborate.
Sasuke... Any suspicions?
Naruto... A few years ago, a civil war broke out in the water country. Because of this turmoil, renegades began to appear in the hidden fog village. The wave country is very close to the water country, there's a risk of running into one of these renegades. If you have any doubts about it, it's better to say so right away.
Sakura... But how do you know about all this?
Naruto and Sasuke made a facepalm and looked at Sakura sternly.
Naruto... Sakura, you're not an academy student anymore, please don't ask stupid questions. Ninjas don't give away their secrets, and you should be glad I'm on top of it.
Sakura wilted at the fact that she'd just been yanked away. Naruto realized he was overreacting and decided to support the girl.
Naruto... Sakura, understand, I don't want you to die on a mission for doing something stupid. I realize that the shinobi world is just a new experience for you. But try to get into situations.
Sakura... All right. (chuckles) But why was this assignment counted as a C rank?
Naruto... Good question, recently in the water country, the situation has stabilized. They started catching their own nukenins, but you can't catch them all in such a small amount of time. Yes and the status of the order, discuss with the customer. And as you can tell, he's not telling you something...
Sasuke remembered Tazuna's hesitation after asking about the rank of the assignment.
Sasuke... Okay, what are you suggesting?
Naruto... Take all the essentials for this trek, judging by our customer's bad habits, it's going to be a long journey, so stock up on food. Sasuke, don't forget to take your brother's uniform, I think you and I are going to have to gather information in enemy territory, and the equipment is sealed with a chakra seal, now we'll go to my house and I'll give you a scroll, seal your equipment there.
Sasuke... Got it!
Sakura was excited about the outcome of these missions.
Sakura... Naruto, why didn't you say anything to Kakashi sensei?
Naruto... That's not good, like I said, we need experience in battles. I heard that Kushina san taught you well in medical techniques. You're on our team playing the role of irienin and you'll rarely interact in hotspots.
Naruto put his hand on the girl's shoulder and exclaimed.
Naruto... Don't be afraid Sakura, we'll protect you and especially we'll have an elite jonin with us. He carries out such missions alone, we can take something from his experience.
Sakura's thoughts... Shannaroo, he can be so cool sometimes, xooo.
Sakura... Okay, I won't let you down.
Naruto... That's good! And now it's time for us to disperse!
Sakura left for her home, but Naruto and Sasuke were walking down the streets and decided to clarify points.
Sasuke... Hey Dobe, from what you're telling me, we've got a big case brewing, are you sure it's gonna go smoothly?
Naruto... Teme, don't worry, if we look out for each other like we did on that mission in whirlpool country, we'll do well. The main thing is to plan everything wisely and we'll stay afloat.
Sasuke smirked at the levity of his co-commander.
Sasuke... Dobe, sometimes your optimism scares me...
Naruto... And why sweat the small stuff, we'll have tons of missions like this, it's still better if we get used to these states of affairs datebayo...
Sasuke... Hmpf, whatever you say.
Along the way, team number four was walking toward them after another mission. Kushina saw her son and decided to say hello to the genin.
Kushina... Hi, Naruto-kun, Sasuke-kun.
Sasuke... Hello Kushina san.
Naruto... Hello.
Miroku's thoughts... Shit, him again, too bad my mom's around, I'd like to wring his neck right here.
Inami heard Naruto's name and immediately ran to hug him.
Inami... Naruto? Naruto Uzumaki?
Kushina... Wow, you two know each other?
Naruto on the other hand didn't remember her anymore as he had enough problems at that time, he only remembered her as one of the members of teams number four.
Naruto... Uh, hi...
Inami grimaced and pushed away from the blond man.
Inami... You don't remember me? Although it's been a long time...
Naruto's thoughts... It's strange, I recognize the face, but I can't remember it.
Naruto scratched the back of his head and grinned stupidly.
Naruto... I'm sorry, maybe we've seen each other before. We have to go, let's go Sasuke.
Naruto and Sasuke went their separate ways, but Inami let the tears flow, Kushina walked over to her and began to soothe her.
Kushina... Inami, honey, what's wrong?
Kushina's thoughts... Strange, Inami never mentioned him, I wonder where they might have seen each other, judging by Minato Kushina's words. Naruto didn't socialize with anyone his own age.
Inami... I'm sorry sensei, it's just, it's a bad memory.
Kushina... Girls, you can go home, I'll report back on the mission accomplished. Come Inami, I know a great place where you can calm down.
Miroku's thoughts... What an asshole, looks like that idiot did something to Inami. When I meet him, I'll kill him for sure.
Karin's thoughts... Hmm, nice-looking guys, I wish I was on their team.
The girls went home, but Kushina took Inami to a candy restaurant. When they sat down at the table, Kushina ordered an ice cream. Kushina wondered how she knew Naruto.
Kushina... Inami, I know it's painful to say this, but it's better for you to say it to make you feel better.
Inami calmed down a little and pulled out her most favorite picture, where she and Naruto were photographed in winter in the park near a snowman.
Inami... When I first came to the orphanage, everyone shunned me because of my red hair. But not Naruto, he was constantly supporting me and protecting me from the other kids in the orphanage. He taught me a lot about writing, reading, and enjoying life.
Kushina looked at the children's happy faces, almost letting tears fall.
Kushina's thoughts... Son, you used to be so sweet, and not much has changed.
But then she noticed some oddities.
Kushina's thoughts... Wait, that scarf, that hat, the clothes. That's-
Kushina... Inami, isn't that the boy who was in the park with you?
Inami grew sad and started shedding tears.
Inami... That's him, he was always hiding his face as people squinted strangely at those mustaches.
Kushina's thoughts. Oh, my God, he was hiding from everyone at such a young age.
Inami... He said no one would adopt him, I don't know why, but he told me not to tell anyone about his name.
Kushina's thoughts... What have I done, if I hadn't been so stubborn, I could have picked up Naruto the same day.
Kushina... Inami, why did you stop seeing each other?
Inami... At that moment, I wanted a family, but I didn't want to leave him either. Naruto told me not to worry about anything, that I'd be better off with my family than in an orphanage. When you picked me up from the orphanage, we saw him a couple times, and then...
Kushina... Then what?
Inami... He disappeared, stopped coming to our favorite spot. The shelter said he left there. If I had stayed with him, he wouldn't have forgotten me.
Inami started crying bitterly and wiped her tears.
Kushina's thoughts... Well done Kushina, you screwed up again, what kind of fool am I?
Inami began to calm down little by little and Kushina pulled a plate of ice cream over to her.
Kushina... Inami, eat, it'll get better!
Kushina took the picture and took a long look at it.
Kushina's thoughts... I have to make a copy of this picture, it seems Inami didn't show this picture because she still appreciated my son. I wonder why Naruto had forgotten about her.
Kushina... Inami, this picture is already outdated, let me make you a new one?
Inami perked up a bit.
Inami... Sensei, thank you, do you know Naruto well?
Kushina's thoughts... Oh, she's totally in love with him.
The woman began to snicker
Kushina... You want to know where he lives?
Inami... Do you know where he lives?
Kushina... I'll tell you, but only on one condition.
Inami... Uh, what's the condition?
Kushina... You're going to tell me all about Naruto, I'm curious about what he was like as a kid.
Inami... All right!
Inami began her story, Kushina even started writing down all her words on a notepad. At this time in Naruto's apartment, the landlord himself was going through his things while Sasuke sat on the couch and posed onigiri. Sasuke was surprised at Naruto's stash, but what interested him most was the fox mask.
Sasuke's thoughts... Wow, and Naruto is a treasure trove of secrets, I don't even know what to be surprised about anymore. I think it's time we learned his most important secret.
Sasuke... Naruto!
Naruto... Hmm?
Sasuke... Anyway, you said you trusted me, but I have a question.
Naruto... What's that?
Sasuke... Why does everyone in the village hate you?
Naruto pulled himself away and sat down in a chair.
Naruto... Are you sure you want to know about this?
Sasuke... Yes!
Naruto's thoughts... I think there's nothing to fear, Itachi will step on his tambourine anyway if he rambles dantebayo.
Naruto pulled up his t-shirt vest and showed the Kyubey seal.
Sasuke's thoughts... Seal? But why would he need such a seal?
Sasuke... What's that?
Naruto... Sasuke, do you know much about jinchuriki?
Sasuke... Hmm, I've read that jinchuriki keep biju, from one-tailed to nine-tailed.
Naruto... Uh, so, I'm the jinchuriki of the nine-tailed fox.
Sasuke... What? Are you kidding me?
Naruto... I'd give a lot not to have that be true.
Naruto lowered his gaze and began to run his fingers over it.
Sasuke.. How come you're the one who became a jinchuriki?
Naruto looked at Sasuke with a serious look.
Naruto... I don't know and I don't want to know, I made peace with that fact a long time ago. The day I was born, a lot of people died because of the nine-tails. Everyone still blames me for their deaths as I am the vessel for this demon. And some people think I'm the fox himself.
Sasuke's thoughts... What the hell is going on with Naruto?
Sasuke... But that's nonsense, if you were a nine-tailed man, you'd leave no stone unturned?
Naruto... And tell that to the others, they'll think you're crazy.
Sasuke... Why don't our peers know about this?
Naruto... Because of the law about not distributing to young people. Believe me, a lot of people have lost their heads for blabbing, so I suggest you keep it a secret.
Sasuke walked up to Naruto and tapped him on the head.
Sasuke... Dobe, who do you think I am? Trust must be mutual, you're my friend, and as you taught me, friends don't get screwed over.
Naruto stood up from his chair and just hugged Sasuke.
Naruto... Thank you, friend!
Sasuke... That's it, let go!
Naruto wiped away his tears and gave Sasuke a scroll.
Naruto... Sasuke, let's go to the Uchiha quarter, I have to stop by Shisui's.
Sasuke... All right. Uh-huh.
They were walking through the streets, and Sasuke now understood the reasons for the other residents' hatred of Naruto.
Sasuke's thoughts... Village of idiots.
Naruto... Sasuke!
Sasuke... Hmm?
Naruto... Ignore them, you shouldn't stoop to their level.
Sasuke... I wouldn't dream of it.
Sasuke had gone to his house and started packing ahead of time, but Naruto stood outside Shisui's house and started banging on the door. When the door opened, a sleepy looking guy looked at the blonde.
Naruto... Brother, did you just wake up?
Shisui yawned and looked at the blond again.
Shisui... Ototo, it's my day off, I'm entitled.
Naruto walked into the house and took a seat on the couch.
Naruto... Shisui, I've achieved the long-term mission, here's the key.
Naruto handed over a copy of the keys and then folded his arms.
Naruto... Just don't make a mess in my house.
Shisui... Oh, don't be so afraid, Akemi works in a hospital, which means she is very familiar with sterilization. Your apartment will be even cleaner.
Naruto... Uh, I keep forgetting to ask, why is she coming here? What, she's bored at the hospital.
Shisui... Well, you could put it this way.
Naruto shrugged and began to warm up.
Naruto... Eh, okay, it's none of my business...
Shisui winked and rubbed his little brother's head.
Shisui... Love your approach on these things. Come on, do you want tea?
Naruto... No, I just ate at home, and I have to get ready.
Shisui... All right, you need any help?
Naruto... I think I can manage on my own, well, I'm leaving the village tomorrow morning, I'll see you in a month or so.
Naruto walked out of Shisui's house and walked back home.
Inami was waiting for the master of the house at this time, near the stairs. Kushina was nearby and hid her chakra so Naruto wouldn't see her.
Kushina's thoughts... Here comes my son, come on Inami, you can do it! Inami and Kushina negotiated about the meeting.
Inami... Sensei, I'm afraid Naruto won't remember me, it's been almost 9 years!
Kushina... Lay off the nonsense, even though it's been so long, but don't worry he couldn't forget you.
Inami stood uncertainly, but as soon as she saw the blond man, she perked up and walked over to him.
Inami... Hi, Naruto.
Naruto... Hmm? Inami?
Inami... Anyway, I wanted to ask you something... Are you sure you don't remember me?
The girl pulled out a picture and showed it to Naruto. Naruto, on the other hand, began to remember her.
Naruto's thoughts... Duttebayo, she's from the orphanage!
Naruto... I'm sorry, Inami, I really forgot you.
The girl frowned and began to clamp her eyes shut to keep the tears away, she had been searching for him for so many years, but when she found him, she felt betrayed. Naruto couldn't let her get depressed.
Naruto... Inami, let's go to my house and talk there.
Inami... All right!
The teens started to enter the house, but Kushina wanted to know more.
Kushina's thoughts... Xo, if I get closer, Naruto will notice me, what should I do? Oh, I know, we should put a barrier on one of the apartments and listen in on their conversation. Kushina snuck into one of the empty apartments as inconspicuously as possible and put up a barrier to hide her chakra, she washed her pens and was excited.
Kushina's thoughts... So, doves, coo!
Naruto and Inami sat down at the table pre-brewing tea. Inami took a few sips and began to babble uncertainly. Naruto, on the other hand, was flooded with memories of his happy childhood days.
Inami... Naru, why did you disappear? I came to our place every day and waited for you. I was worried about you, I thought something terrible might have been done to you!
Naruto lowered his gaze, remembering his hard decision.
Naruto... I'm sorry, there's a reason, you just found a family. I thought at the time that I might be interfering with your happiness. It wasn't an easy decision, but I couldn't let you feel guilty.
Inami started shedding tears and was depressed all over, she burst into tears.
Inami... Naruto, if you hadn't been so stubborn back then, you could have been taken from the orphanage, too. Kushina sensei asked about you, but you stubbornly said you didn't need it. If you said yes, we could be together. Tell me Naruto, why are you so stubborn? Why do you keep thinking about others while forgetting about yourself?
Naruto sidered in prostration and couldn't get a word out.
Naruto... Inami, there were reasons...
The girl switched to screaming and restrained herself not to kill her interlocutor right there.
Inami... What are the reasons? What reason could there be that you could leave me so easily? You promised me we'd be together, but you lied.
Naruto didn't know what to say and just waited for his interlocutor to calm down. Inami wiped her tears and came to her senses.
Inami... I looked for you, I looked for you at the shelter, but they said you'd left and told me not to come near you. I was afraid you might have been killed, but I couldn't understand why everyone hated you so much. Did you do something bad?
Naruto... Inami, it's hard to explain, and it's classified information.
Inami... There you go again, the whole time I was with you in that orphanage, you were always hiding things from me. Tell me, what is this secret that you can't share with me?
Naruto... Inami, I'm sorry, I can't tell you that.
Inami... Naruto, tell me, what you said about valuing me as a friend, was that a lie?
Naruto... No! It wasn't a lie. Believe me, I wish I could tell you everything that's happened to me since then, but I can't. If I tell you, I'll put you in danger.
Inami... Again, again you only think of others. I should have refused Kushina sensei's offer. I would have stayed with you in that shelter, I would have helped you with your life.
Naruto himself was starting to get nervous and raise his voice.
Naruto... And then what would have happened? Inami, you know as well as I do how hard it is for orphans to live in this world. I thank Kushina san every day for taking you out of there. I didn't want you to suffer without parental care or a roof over your head.
Inami... You could have it all, too, if you said yes.
Naruto... No, he wouldn't!
Inami... And of course you won't tell me why!
Naruto... I'm sorry!
Kushina listened to their conversation and started shedding tears herself.
Kushina's thoughts... Xo what have I done, I could have just listened to the third one and taken them both.
Naruto stood up from his chair and put his hand on her shoulder.
Naruto... Inami, it was a tough time for me back then. But now, we can catch up.
Inami stood up from her chair and pressed herself against Naruto.
Inami... Well, what's past is past!
Kushina breathed a sigh of relief and began to peer at them through the gash. Naruto just held her and stroked her head.
Inami... Naruto, why don't we go out tomorrow?
Naruto scratched the back of his head and grinned stupidly.
Naruto... I'm sorry, I have a mission tomorrow.
Inami... After tomorrow, then.
Naruto... Uh, I won't be in Konoha for a month.
Inami... What? For a month?
Naruto... I'm sorry.
Inami... I want to come with you!
Naruto... The mission is for our team only, everything is already arranged!
Inami sighed in frustration and looked straight into the sky blue eyes that studied with concern.
Inami... I'll be waiting for you, at least this time you're not missing.
Naruto... I promise I'll be back, we're friends!
Inami's thoughts. Now's my chance!
Inami grabbed both of the blond's cheeks and began to slowly bring her lips closer, to Naruto's lips.
Kushina's thoughts... Wow, this is gonna be something, I wish I had a camera!
Naruto seeing the action from his companion was startled and jumped back.
Naruto... What the hell are you doing?
Inami's thoughts... What the hell?
The girl began to blush thickly and was afraid to look into the blond's eyes.
Inami... A kiss.
Naruto... What kiss? I'm only turning 12 this year, and it's too early for us to do this.
Inami didn't say anything but just slapped her and left the apartment.
Kushina's thoughts... Naruto, you're a retard, just like your father!
Naruto went to bed early so he'd have strength for the mission. Kushina, on the other hand, just left without even removing the barrier.
Kushina's thoughts... It's okay, lovebirds, I'll fix you both up!
The next morning, the number 7 team gathered at the gate and waited for the customer.
Naruto... Duttebayo, he's late!
Sasuke... Maybe he got drunk somewhere and forgot about us.
Sakura... Kakashi sensei, why don't we look for him?
Kakashi... Mma, can't you feel him anywhere, Naruto?
Naruto let loose a chakro pulse around the area and grimaced slightly.
Naruto... He's closing in, the alcohol in his chakra can be felt two kilometers away. Sasuke was right, he was drunk.
Kakashi's thoughts... Wow, he can pick up, even little things like that.
Kakashi... Waiting.
When the customer arrived, he reeked of nothing but booze and had several bottles of sake in his bag.
Tazuna... Come on, we gotta go.
The team didn't emphasize their customer's bad habits.
Kakashi... I go ahead, Sakura, you as a ninja medic go next to Tazuna san. Naruto, Sasuke, you'll be in the back.
Naruto... Bingo.
Sasuke... Got it.
Sakura... All right. (chuckles)
The team moved out on the road, the customer walked slowly, which unnerved the team. Naruto and Sasuke walking behind him decided to have a few moments of conversation.
Sasuke... What do you think of the situation?
Naruto... I can only say one thing, in Tazuna San's diagnosis, there was no blood in the alcohol.
Sasuke... Shh, what if we dig a little deeper?
Naruto... I think he's afraid of something, he needs to keep his composure so he doesn't give himself away to us. He took bottles on the road for a reason.
Sasuke... Hmm, what's he got to be afraid of with us around?
Naruto... He's afraid we'll walk out on him if we find out this mission isn't C rank.
Sasuke... Oh, come on, by the way, did you notice anyone following us?
Naruto... The two shinobi, they walked forward. We're not far from Konoha and there are plenty of patrols, they wouldn't dare attack in this area. I think they're preparing an ambush at the border.
Sasuke... Should we warn Sensei?
Naruto... Not yet, Kakashi sensei can give the command to return to Konoha.
Sasuke... Got it!
Naruto and Sasuke were alert and able to fend off any attack, Kakashi was still reading his book, but Sakura was pestering everyone with her questions. Ten days later, they were approaching the border. Naruto took out a notebook and began to write something down, then showed it to Sasuke. Naruto radiated with cockiness and acrimony.
Naruto... Sasuke, what do you think of this drawing? Does he look like Kakashi sensei?
Sasuke looked at the notebook and began to read.
Naruto's entry... Two shinobi 300 meters away hid in a puddle.
Sasuke's thought... Got it, they might get suspicious if we talk to each other, good thinking.
Sasuke... No, it doesn't look like much. Give me a pencil, please. Now it looks like it.
Sasuke's entry... I think it's worth warning Sensei, he's ahead, I'll be ready ahead of time.
Naruto read the note and ran forward to Kakashi.
Naruto... Sensei.
Kakashi... Hmm?
Naruto... Look, we drew you!
Kakashi began to read the correspondences in the notebook and gave his verdict.
Kakashi's thoughts... Well done, and it didn't rain yesterday, so as long as Sasuke and Naruto are ready.
Kakashi... My hair's not like that, give me a pencil.
Kakashi wrote the message and gave it to Naruto again.
Kakashi's entry... I'll go first and check it out, once I give the signal, disarm them but don't kill them. I want to question them.
Kakashi... Now that's right, grief artists.
Naruto turned back to Sasuke and showed the notebook. As soon as Kakashi passed the puddle, two chunin from the fog jumped out and ripped the jonin with their chains. The boys ran towards them and knocked them out with a precise blow to the head and then wrapped them in their own chains. Sakura perked up and stood up for her client. After a few seconds, Kakashi emerged from behind the trees and crouched down on a branch.
Kakashi... Well done guys, well done everyone, and now I'd like to talk to you Tazuna San! Those ninjas came for you, didn't they?
The old man was sweating and began to frantically squeeze out words.
Tazuna... It's true, sorry I didn't warn you about it!
Kakashi... Mma, Tazuna san, a C rank assignment only involves brigands, and that's at least B rank. You tricked us, we have the right to return to Konoha. Genies are not suited for this assignment.
The client got quite down and started to press for pity.
Tazuna... All right, you can leave me, let those ninjas cut me down. May my grandson never see his grandfather again.
Sasuke's thoughts... Shh, drama queen, for God's sake, Naruto, come on, help me out.
Sasuke poked his elbow under the blond's ribs and he immediately came to his senses.
Naruto... Kakashi sensei, we're almost across the border, so why don't we continue the mission?
Kakashi... Mma, no Naruto, it could be dangerous.
Naruto... But after all, if we abandon the mission, the village's reputation will fall and we'll be in trouble later on.
Kakashi's thoughts... Hell, what to tell him, and he's done missions like this before.
Kakashi... Naruto, I realize you have experience in this kind of thing, but what about the others? Sasuke, Sakura, do you agree to continue the mission?
Sasuke... I agree.
Sakura's Thoughts... Naruto warned us about this, there's no turning back.
Sakura... I agree!
Kakashi... Mma, all right, but I need to question our prisoners about something. Naruto, Sasuke, follow me!
All three of them dragged the two renegades deeper into the forest. Tazuna and Sakura seeing their actions began to be perplexed.
Tazuna... These kids, they're not ordinary, they're definitely Genin's?
Sakura... Tazuna san, ninjas don't give away their secrets.
Kakashi tied both renegades to a tree and then turned to the genin.
Kakashi... Naruto, Sasuke, how long have you known about the fake mission?
The guys realized they had nowhere to go and decided to come clean.
Naruto... Ever since we found out about the mission. Wave Country is not far from Water Country where there was a recent civil war and such renegades are not uncommon. I read their dossier, from the names of the demon brothers from the fog, Gozu and Meizu. I think they were hired by someone who doesn't want Tazuna San to go to the land of waves.
Sasuke... Sensei, we're assuming this won't be the first attack.
Kakashi... Mma, your arguments are valid, but explain to me why I am only finding out about your awareness now?
Genin began to shake finely and grin stupidly.
Naruto... Sensei, we were afraid you'd cancel the mission.
Sasuke... We need experience in battle.
Kakashi's thoughts... The hell is going on in my team, I wish I could send you two back in our time.
Kakashi... Okay, but from now on, you have to report everything. Otherwise, I'll beat the hell out of you.
Genin started nodding his heads and continued to giggle stupidly.
Naruto... Uh, there's a patrol here, we should send these woeful demons to jail.
Kakashi... I'll give the signal, so there's no need to worry about that, in a few hours a patrol will be here to pick them up, let's go back!
Kakashi sent a bolt of lightning into the sky and along with the genin and went to the others. The team arrived at the shore where a boat with a motor was waiting for them. The boatman got one foot in front of the karma and began the introductions.
Boatman... We are sailing quietly on oars, I will not turn on the motor as we can be seen.
The whole crew got on the boat and swam to the shore of the wave country. Tazuna sat with a droopy face and didn't even touch the sake. The team admired the bridge.
Naruto... A steep bridge and so long, Tazuna san, may I ask you about the state of affairs in the land of waves and your task as an architect, as well as who does not benefit from your cooperation with the land of waves?
Tazuna was surprised at the concept of this question.
Tazuna... Anyway, the Wave Country used to thrive, our fish was on the table of the Fire Country daimyo himself. But a year ago, businessman Gato, head of a criminal organization, came to our country. He has occupied our island with his gang and taken possession of all routes to the mainland. He raised the price of crossing the sea. My country is starving and the only salvation is the bridge I'm building. Gato doesn't benefit from this bridge as he will lose a bunch of revenue from the tolls from crossing to the mainland. If I am killed, there will be no bridge and our people will slowly die of poverty.
Naruto listening to this story made his arguments.
Naruto... But the country is already poor, so he wants to wipe out your village, and when all the people die of hunger, it will not be difficult for him to take complete control of this island. Hmm, what a bastard! What about the law? After all, your country also has daimae with their warriors. Why doesn't he kick him out?
Tazuna... Hmm, good question, but the point is that Gato has more men and the daimyo won't take risks with his men. They have neutrality at the moment, the daimyo is sponsoring our bridge, but he won't openly go against Gato.
Naruto... Sad, dattebayo!
Kakashi... Mma, we're getting closer, be on the lookout.
Everyone landed on the shore, but when the Boatman reached for the motor Naruto threw a kunai at the motor.
Boatman... What the hell are you doing?
Naruto moved behind the boatman's back at fast speed and simply knocked him out. Everyone else looked perplexed, but only Kakashi understood the blond's actions.
Kakashi... Good for you, quick to respond.
Naruto... Looks like someone paid him to put us ashore and warn the others with the sound of the motor.
Kakashi... Mma, let's go quietly, Tazuna san, show the way.
The team was walking through the forest as suddenly Naruto threw a kunai at a tree and together with Kakashi went to check it out. Naruto looked at the spot where the kunai had been stuck and a white rabbit was hanging from it.
Kakashi's thoughts... White rabbit, in the summer? Looks like she's domestic.
Naruto... Sensei, the substitution technique was used on him, he's sitting on top!
Kakashi looked up where some man was throwing a huge cleaver towards the team.
Kakashi... Everybody get down!
Sasuke gave a slip to Tazuna and together with Sakura lay on the ground. A huge cleaver flew into a tree and on the hilt stood a huge man in his 30's with a bare torso, a bandage of mist was turned to the left and a mask on his face. Naruto had deja vu, for he knew this sword and its wielder, it looked very much like his familiar from the mist.
Naruto... Juso?
Kakashi's thoughts... Does Naruto know Juzo?
Kakashi... No, Naruto isn't Juzo, it's one of the fog swordsmen, Zabuza Momochi.
The man looked at them and was surprised to see such company.
Zabuza... Who do I see, it's the copying ninja of the leaf, Hatake Kakashi. Who's that next to you? Wow, I saw you at the chunin exam three years ago. Has he defected to the leaf? You had a waterfall patch, didn't you?
Kakashi's thoughts... Yeah, Naruto, if we're going to survive, you're going to have to come clean.
Sasuke's thoughts... Looks like Naruto took a shit in the fog too, now that he's memorized.
Sakura's thoughts... Is Naruto familiar with this ninja?
Naruto stood without making any sudden movements, for Juzo had told him about Zabuza's cruelty.
Naruto... Am I so popular that I've been memorized by the demon of the blood mist himself?
Zabuza... And how could I forget you, all the fog was talking about you bickering with the fourth Mizukage. If I catch you alive, the Mizukage will make me rich. Oh, I'm so lucky today.
Kakashi's thoughts... Well, now I'm sure I'll never be able to get out of asking questions.
Kakashi... Zabuza, I heard you made an attempt on the Mizukage's life yourself. I don't think he'll pay you for my genin after you tried to kill him!
Zabuza sighed in frustration.
Zabuza... It's okay, I'll figure something out.
Kakashi began the introductions to his team, raising his armband.
Kakashi... Guys, manja formation, protect the client, I'll deal with him myself. You're gonna need this.
Genin stood around Tazuna's back and pulled out his kunai. Zabuza folded the seal.
Zabuza... The technique of hiding in the fog!
The entire area was covered in fog and the genin were alert, Sasuke even turned on his sharingan.
Naruto... Relax, I've encountered this technique before, when he gets close I'll let you know about it. Sasuke, you better turn off your sharingan. It's useless.
Sasuke's thoughts... Shit, all right.
Kakashi's thoughts... It's a good thing we have a sensor, or you can't even see through this fog with a sharingan.
Naruto folded the seals and tried to remove the fog with the palm of his storm palm, but it didn't have much effect, for the fog was covering back up.
Zabuza... Hmm, did you think it would be that easy? What should I choose? Head, carotid artery, intestines?
Naruto studied the chakro pulse.
Naruto's thoughts... Damn, I can feel Zabuza and who is standing behind the trees, he's not attacking, just watching datebayo. Xo, better not talk about him otherwise, hell is coming.
Naruto... From the top, scatter.
Naruto grabbed Tazuna and jumped back, as did the rest of the team. Kakashi reacted instantly and crossed his kunai with Zabuza's sword.
Zabuza... Wow, your surprise blond could sense my approach in this fog.
Kakashi... Zabuza, turn yourself in nicely.
Zabuza... Sorry, but I was paid for this old man's life, all the more how can I refuse such trophies. Yeah, and you'd be better off surrendering.
Zabuza scattered with water.
Kakashi... A water clone?
Zabuza... Exactly.
Zabuza slashed at Kakashi and a water clone scattered in front of him.
Zabuza... Wow, you copied my technique?
Kakashi... It wasn't hard!
The Jonins began to fight amongst themselves using techniques. Kakashi jumped onto the water and then Naruto shouted out.
Naruto... Sensei, underwater.
Zabuza... Too late! The water prison technique!
Zabuza caught Kakashi in a water sphere and the latter couldn't do anything about it.
Zabuza... You can't get out now Kakashi! I'm gonna kill you and then I'm gonna take care of these kids.
With those words, he created a water clone so that the genin wouldn't interfere with the water prison process.
Kakashi's thoughts... Shit, this technique can't be penetrated by anything, Zabuza is very dangerous, the guys can't handle him.
Kakashi... Guys, take Tazuna san and run to the village, his clone can't get far from the original.
Sakura... No, Sensei, we won't leave you!
Zabuza turned his head toward the genin and began his speech.
Zabuza. What, you put on a blindfold and think you're a ninja? You're a bunch of little brats. Go through the threshold of death so much that you won't care and only then can you call yourself a ninja. Although I could be wrong about the blond guy. You've made a lot of noise in our village.
Naruto... Zabuza, I've heard a lot about you too.
Zabuza... Did Juzo tell you everything? Well, enlighten me.
Naruto began to gesture a command to get ready.
Naruto's gesture... Sakura stay here while Sasuke and I get ready, I'll bide my time.
Sasuke realized the blond's intent and whispered in Sakura's ear, but Naruto began his tirade.
Naruto... Your village used to have a genin exam where you killed your classmates. This exam was shut down because of you!
Zabuza... Keep going!
Naruto... Juzo said you were a kid of six and you cut out all the academy graduates from that class. The village suffered a loss in fighting power and covered up such practices.
Everyone else marveled at the blond's awareness.
Sasuke's thoughts... Hell, what kind of village is it that makes you kill the people you've been studying with all this time?
Sakura's thoughts... That's awful.
Kakashi's thoughts... Wow, he knows about that, too.
Tazuna's thoughts... That kid's a tough one.
Zabuza listened to Naruto's story with enjoyment.
Zabuza... It was funny... There was so much emotion in that moment. Hey blondie, you felt the same way when you killed those geniuses in the second round of the exam, didn't you? You weren't bad for your age.
Naruto... Uh, no, I had other motives at the time.
Zabuza... What are they?
Naruto... Either I'm theirs or they're mine.
The fog began to clear little by little.
Naruto gave a start gesture and together with Sasuke raced towards Zabuza's clone running zig-zag together. Sasuke turned on his sharingan to synchronize his attack with the blond's. Naruto created clones and mobbed Zabuza's clone. It was hard to resist because of his big sword. In the heat of battle Naruto stealthily passed two large shuriken and when the clones all mobbed the water clone disarmed the water clone by lashing its limbs.
Naruto... Sasuke, now!
Sasuke... Fuma shuriken, ghost mill.
Sasuke straightened the folded shuriken and threw it at Zabuza.
Zabuza... You can't get me with that!
Zabuza grabbed one shuriken but noticed a second one flying after the first.
Zabuza... What, the second one hid behind the first one?
With those words, he jumped up so that the shuriken flew under him and his hand couldn't be pulled out of the water prison. But the shuriken turned into Naruto and folded the seals.
Naruto... Futon, the palm of the storm!
Zabuza... What? Is it a trick?
The wind threw the swordsman forward and Kakashi got out of his prison. Naruto ran from the water to the shore to avoid getting caught in another technique from the enemy's water. Kakashi stood across from Zabuza and they began to talk.
Zabuza... Damn, I knew it wouldn't be that easy. And you're lucky Kakashi, to have such geninis.
Kakashi... That's what Zabuza is, and now!
The jonin began throwing techniques at each other, Kakashi copying or anticipating his opponent's attacks. Zabuza started freaking out and didn't notice Kakashi doing the technique before him and got hit by the whirlpool technique which sent him flying off to a boulder. Zabuza lay down without strength.
Zabuza... It's not yet...
Needles stabbed into his neck and the oinin landed beside him.
Haku... Thank you, I've been chasing him from the water country.
Kakashi... You're an Oinin, aren't you?
Haku... Yeah, I need to get this body back into the fog.
Naruto walked over to him and began to look at Zabuza's body.
Naruto... Did you kill him?
Haku... Yes.
Naruto... Then you can get down to business, don't be afraid, we're not afraid. And why do you want to haul that carcass around? You'd better gut him here.
Kakashi's thoughts... It's weird, so young and already an oinin, and Naruto's right, why would he carry a boar like that?
Oinin was wary of those words and threw senbon at the blond man, which he simply fought off with a kunai from his armband. When the oinin disappeared into the smoke.
Naruto... Looks like it's not over!
Kakashi... Looks like...
With those words, Kakashi fell to the ground from exhaustion and everyone ran to him for help. Naruto ran a chakro pulse across his entire body.
Naruto... Chakra depletion, looks like he overstressed the sharingan too much. Sakura, can you cure him?
Sakura... Yes! We need a room of some kind.
Naruto... Tazuna san, show me the way to your house. Sasuke, I'll use the clones to carry Kakashi sensei, and you stand guard in case anyone else shows up. Sakura, you'll be next to Tazuna san.
Sasuke... Got it!
Sakura... All right. (chuckles)
The team along with the customer walked towards the house.