Chapter-14: Battle of the Bridge
Well wow it has been a long time. Since my college began, I just couldn't keep up writing. College, Gym, Guitar, Study became too much continue writing. I am sorry for that.
I have stopped learning Guitar, I think can put that time here. But I don't want to make any promises or statements now. I don't know whether the chapter will be in three days, a week or even 10 days. I will just try to keep going.
To everyone who supported a big thanks. I don't what to say. Social media has really dwindled numbers. Like 1000 views don't mean nothing but man they are big when you put into perspective. Even 100 people reading this means a full auditorium reading your work which is something.to
Anyway, sorry for rambling and just disappearing. Enjoy! And there might be errors again since I am writing after 4 months at least and this is my longest chapter as I want to finish up Wave as fast as I can. So, sorry again.
Kakashi woke up with a groan and saw himself in a moderate room. He scanned his surroundings and found everything to be alright. No sign of the enemy, his Sharingan still there that means he was in the bridge builder's house. He sensed his genin downstairs and decided to greet them but soon realised he still has troubles standing up.
He sighed meaning he has to yell for them or wait till someone comes to check on him. Deciding on the second option he took out his book from his folded clothes and started to read.
Kakashi's door was opened by a beautiful woman carrying an icepack. Hatake hid up his book and eye-smiled. "You are awake" the beauty asked. "Yup, I am Kakashi Hatake. The kids' teacher and you are" "Tsunami, Tazuna's daughter" now named Tsunami introduced herself. "Shall I call for your students or you want to rest a little more" "A little more rest would be welcomed but I don't think I have the luxury" Kakashi said. "Those Kiri-nins" Tsunami said on which Kakashi nodded. Tsunami then bowed "Thank you for protecting my father. He told me that you agreed to continue even after you found out he is lying. For that you have my deepest gratitude" "Ma no need for that. Besides it was the kids call to go along. They are nice like that" Kakashi replied.
Tsunami then placed the ice-pack and went down. Kakashi didn't have to wait long before he was bombarded by his brats. "Sensei you are awake" "are you alright" "I told you not overdo it" Sasuke, Sakura and Naruto said respectively. "I am fine you all. Thanks for taking care of things till I was out" The genin beamed on Kakashi's words. "But unfortunately, this isn't over. Zabuza is alive and has an accomplice. He might be injured but he will probably recover in week ready to attack" Kakashi explained drawing seldom looks.
"But don't worry I will also recover before a week and will train you brats for his accomplice" The Hatake eye-smiled. "Well then we should leave to rest" Sakura. "Recover well Nii-san and don't pull your usual" on the look Naruto explained "He has a habit of not taking the appropriate rest time" "Oh, don't worry we will make sure he doesn't pull that" Sakura said in a sickly-sweet voice on which Kakashi nodded.
"Anything you want Sasuke" Kakashi asked seeing his student standing alone. "Can you tell me about your Sharingan. When I found out a non-Uchiha having the eye. I was surprised and asked mom how this was allowed. But she said you have both the owner's and her blessings. Even dad reluctantly said you deserve it and it's your story to tell." The Uchiha questioned. Kakashi looked at Sasuke and sighed "Well you deserve to know it"
"It was gift from my teammate. His name was Obito Uchiha one of the best Uchiha and shinobi Konoha produced. Obito was the one who taught me the value of comrades" seeing the stunned look Kakashi mirthlessly chuckled as he continued. "I was a stick in a mud in my early days. Always caring about rules and stuff. On my first jonin mission our third teammate got captured. I wanted to continue the mission" Sasuke gasped on hearing that. "Obito wanted to save her. I tried to pull the rank on him but he still went. That's when he told me 'Those who break rules are scum but those who abandon even one of their comrades are worse than scum'"
"He was the friend you were talking about" Kakashi nodded and continued. "I went after them and we rescued her but the enemy collapsed the cave and Obito scarified himself to protect me. His body was crushed so he asked Rin our third teammate to plant his Sharingan in my eye as I lost mine. He said it was gift on my jonin promotion" Kakashi finished and Sasuke was stunned he never expected that.
"How was Obito like" Sasuke asked. "Obito was well he was clumsy, always late, messed up a lot of things. But he had heart, he was always ready to help people. Kinda like Naruto" Kakashi explained with a fond smile. "Then he would be proud of you, sensei. You have done a great to Obito's gift" On Sasuke's words Kakashi gave a genuine smile. "Thank you, Sasuke"
Kakashi and the genin were eating dinner with Tazuna, Tsunami and her son Inari who was a loner from what the genin saw. They didn't say much as the place was bad enough so it isn't surprising a kid to be depressed. "Thank you for the food, Tsunami-san. Your cooking is amazing" Sakura praised. "Thank you dear. It's the least we can do for you" Tsunami thanked. "Yup, you brats risked your life to save us" Tazuna added.
"What's the point. They all gonna die" came the child's voice. "Inari" Tsunami warned as the genin glared at him. "What, it's not like they can beat Gato. Nobody can" Inari screamed as he ran away. "Inari. I am sorry he has been through a lot. He doesn't mean it" Tsunami apologized. "No worries, Tsunami-san. He is just a kid" Kakashi said.
The genin and their sensei were staring their sensei in the forest. "Ok now we need to train. Zabuza's accomplice was wearing a hunter-nin's mask. It isn't given as easily, almost of all them are above chunin level" The genin especially Sakura gulped hearing that, although Naruto and especially Sasuke have looks of excitement. "Don't worry I believe the three of you can pull this off together" Kakashi relived them.
"So, what we gonna do" Naruto asked excited. "You will be getting a jutsu from. Now learning a new jutsu might be difficult in a week. But you might manage due to Shadow Clones" seeing the surprised and excited look. "It's something me and Jiraya-sama thought about. Shadow clones return what they see or learn when dispelled."
"Really, you know how fast you could learn" Sasuke complained while Naruto smirked. "It's not sunshine and rainbows. At the human brain is delicate, too much information overload could cause a brain damage or even brain death." Naruto smirk faded. "Then should he be doing that sensei" Sakura asked. "Normally no, but Naruto has conditions that allow him" on this Sakura looked at Naruto with a curious expression as the boy looked away.
"Three clones that's your limit. Don't overdo it as we are in enemy territory" Kakashi said as threw Naruto a scroll named Assassin's Rush. "Think of it as a Wind Shunshin" on the look of disappointment. "But it's much faster and deadlier. Not only that it releases an initial gust knocking everything around you" Kakashi's further explanation brought Naruto back as he went in the forest to train.
"Now you two are with me. Sasuke we will be working on your Sharingan, hunters usually hide in the mist and try to assassinate their opponent with pin point projectiles. Their knowledge of human body is far superior to anyone. So, one hit and you are dead"
"That's scary" Sakura commented as Uchiha nodded. "Yup, but don't worry yours truly had experience with it. I will make sure Sasuke is good enough to react to those projectiles."
"As for you we will improve your genjutsu. I will teach you a new one which might be a little difficult but I believe you can pull this off in given time" Sakura beamed at his words as Kakashi created a clone to teach her while the original trained with Sasuke.
The team was at the dinner table again. The genin has worked themselves hard. "Did you really get bumped multiple times into the tree" Sakura asked seeing the bruises. "I thought you were beyond it" "Shut up Dattebayo. It's different than Shunshin, besides you aren't any better" Naruto whined. Sasuke blushed now seeing his own bruises, Kakashi was a monster. Sakura would only have chakra exhaustion but the Hatake decided it was better to work on her taijutsu so, she was sore all over her body. "You guys are really working hard" Tsunami commented.
"It isn't a big deal" Naruto said sheepishly. "Then I need to work hard as well to complete the bridge." Tazuna joined. "Since I have completely recovered, we will start guarding you in shifts from tomorrow" Kakashi told. "Thanks man, now maybe more people will join" Tazuna said in hope. Inari snorted "They aren't fools" Everyone looked at him. "Just give up grandpa or you gonna die. Nobody can beat Gato, these guys will die too" he continued. "Oye you brat I will tell you" Naruto growled. "Naruto" Kakashi warned as Inari screamed again "Shut up you don't know anything. I am leaving" he ran away.
Naruto was with Tazuna on the bridge. Kakashi was training Sakura and Sasuke as Naruto volunteered for the first shift. Now some might say why Naruto wasn't getting one on one training from the jonin. But they didn't know this is how he rolls. Jiraya really built a self-dependent philosophy in him when it comes to training. Now he just like to learn and solve his problems on his own with pointers of course if he needs them.
Besides it's not like Kakashi doesn't check up on him, now if he just figures it out his problem with that annoying jutsu. His clones weren't much help as they just dispelled on collision. He has two problems basically that this one was much faster than the Shunshin and wind chakra was much more volatile than normal chakra. Making it difficult to control and how the fuck can he change directions. Like that's impossible.
Naruto's thoughts were cut short by the commotion. "You are gonna quit" Tazuna yelled. "I am sorry Tazuna but I got kids" the man replied. "We are doing it for them Kizo" The bridge builder yelled again. "I am sorry Tazuna you are much braver than I am" Kizo said apologetically as he left. "Coward" Tazuna muttered.
Naruto was with Tazuna as they were in the village for some supplies. "This place has been through a lot" Naruto said looking at the market. There was hardly any food in the stores, most stores were torn up probably haven't been maintained for a long time. Completely contrast to Konoha's hustling markets which never welcomed him. "Yeah, that's why I want to build that bridge. So that we can finally have a good life" Naruto hummed at Tazuna's thought. He then grabbed a hand beside him only to see a kid as old as Inari. "I am sorry" the boy muttered. Naruto let go him as he ran. "Probably an orphan"
"Gato killed many people leaving kids orphan" Tazuna explained. "You guys don't have orphanages" Naruto asked although orphanage wasn't a good experience for him but it was decent for many others. "We have one but it is probably overfilled due to the circumstances. So, the only thing it can provide is shelter. Forcing the kids to look for the food themselves" Naruto hummed as they walked clearly not liking it. It could have been him if Mikoto, Third, Jiraya and Kakashi weren't there. Maybe he would have even worse. He shuddered at that thought and thanked them as they walked.
"Where are you going" Sakura asked Naruto. "In the forest" he replied. "You are gonna train" "Yeah that" he replied. "Tell Tsunami-san to not wait for me" he added.
Naruto went to the forests but not for training but to hunt. He was taught to hunt by the academy and Itachi and with heightened senses due to the fox he was pretty good at it. The blonde Uzumaki created ten clones and asked them to hunt for fish, rabbit, ducks etc. As the real one went to find the orphanage. After some searching which was made easier by Shunshin the blonde Uzumaki found it.
Going back, he met up with his clones who have caught and killed 30 ducks, 20 rabbits and at least 50 fishes with 15 crabs too. To get a hunt of this kind would require at least 20 civilians and even for them it would take hours or even days. But for shinobi it was easy to sneak up throw a kunai and be done with it. H eHeHe dispelled the clones groaning at the headache. He now understood why Kakashi warned him. Recovering he sealed those animals in a scroll and went.
The matron of the orphanage was having bad day as usual multiple kids were still hungry. She couldn't do much as there was more than 100 mouths to feed including the caretakers. She didn't have the money to buy food for everyone. She cursed Gato. When she heard someone at door, she gulped thinking it was Gato's goons again.
Gathering courage, she opened up to see a boy standing there. Thinking him of another orphan she asked him to come in. "Hi, are you the matron" Naruto asked. The woman nodded. "Are you an orphan" This time Naruto nodded. "I am sorry, you can stay but we can't offer much than shelter" she said apologetic. "Don't worry I am not here to stay. I am actually here to help" Naruto said the women looked surprised.
She was flabbergasted when Naruto unsealed a scroll containing multiple dead animals. "Shinobi" she muttered. "You are the guys Tazuna hired" she further added receiving a nod. She was surprised by seeing how young he was, she has heard of shinobi being kids but it was her first seeing one this young. "Ma'am you are staring" Naruto said. "I am sorry I am just surprised by all this"
"This all is for us" Naruto nodded. "Thank you we can probably manage it for month if we can keep them fresh. I am very grateful" she said hugging him. Naruto surprised by the gesture just stayed there awkward. Now multiple caretakers have come out to see the commotion. "What's this" "This young man brought it for us." The matron explained.
"Really, we are very grateful to you. I don't know if we can repay you" one of them said bowing. "No need I just did it to help" Naruto said rubbing his head. "People like you are rare, doing something just for kindness of your heart" another one added. Naruto was just overwhelmed with this praise. He usually doesn't get this unless it's his surrogate family.
"No problem just keep holding. We will make sure Gato is gone" Naruto promised. "You will remove Gato" one boy said excited. "Kazashi, you gave us away" they saw some kids standing in the hall listening. "You all are awake" one caretaker asked "We wanted to see what's happening" a girl responded. "Go to sleep" other one said. "But it's a shinobi here" The first boy said excitedly. "How do you know" another one said. "Because he had a headband Jin" Kizashi said. "Anyone could wear a headband stupid Kizashi" Jin retorted.
"Then how does he killed these many animals" The girl asked to which Jin grumbled. "Kids go inside. I am sorry we never asked your name" matron asked. "Naruto, Uzumaki Naruto" "Uzumaki-san has given us a great gift don't pester him" "But Akio-san he is a shinobi when does we get the chance to meet another" The kids whined. The matron and caretakers looked at Naruto. "As much I would like to tell you how awesome I am. My team would be worried if I am too late. So, I have to leave." The kids whined at that. "He has to leave kids. Now thank him and go to bed" "Thank you Uzumaki-san" the kids said leaving. "Thank you again Uzumaki-san. I can't tell you grateful we all are to you. Words won't be enough. I wish all you all best in all of your future endeavours and hope you achieve everything you want" Akio said with a bow as the rest of staff bowed and thanked him again. Naruto just muttered welcome as he shunshined.
He arrived late at night after some training to make sure nobody gets suspicious. "Training hard" Kakashi greeted him. "Yup, this jutsu is tough" Naruto replied. "I bet it is. You must be hungry Tsunami-san left something in the fridge"
"It might be not as good as your hunt but it is pretty good" Naruto stumbled on hearing as Kakashi went upstairs. "You would be really proud of sensei, Kushina"
"You two are done with your training" Naruto asked surprised. It has been few days since they started. "Yup, I think I can dodge anything that hunter throws at us" Sasuke gloated. "I got my genjutsu down to" Sakura agreed. "You would have if you just asked Kakashi sensei for help" she added. "Nah, where is the fun in that" Naruto replied. "Besides I only need to learn to change directions" Naruto finished. "My bridge is also almost complete. Thanks to you guys more people showed up" Tazuna said. "That's great now finally we can be free" Tsunami cheered. "Gato will just take the bridge too" Inari said again. "You brat" Naruto growled. "Shut up, Gato will he would just kill all of you and take the bridge"
"Shut up, you brat all you do is whine whine and whine. There are many kids who are have worse than you" "Naruto" the boy ignored Kakashi. "But they aren't crying. You can cry all you want its because cowards like Gato have control. If everyone would be like your grandpa then we wouldn't even need be here" Naruto yelled. "Like you know anything, you probably have good life in your village without troubles" Naruto snarled on hearing that even Sasuke glared. "I don't need to know anything to understand you are whiny coward" Naruto said as he left up from table leaving. Inari teared up and ran away too.
"I am sorry, he has just been through a lot" Tsunami said apologetically. "There looks like a story behind it" Kakashi asked. Tazuna sighed and replied. "Inari's father was killed by Gato"
He pointed at the photo of Inari with a man. "His name was Kaiza he came in our life when my husband died. Inari like now was affected by it and became distant. He was bullied a lot during that time. Kaiza saved Inari and he showed what courage was" Tsunami added in a distant tone. "Kaiza was one of the most courageous men I knew, he was fisherman like us but he had something about him. He was leader, I remember many times when Kaiza went in storms, tides to save his fellow fisherman" Tazuna explained further.
"No wonder Inari idolized him" Sasuke said really liking the guy. "Yeah, but that all fell apart when Gato came. Kaiza was the only one to stand up to him, others either in fear or in greed never opposed him. So, Gato made an example of him" Tsunami sobbed. "That bastard killed Kaiza and hanged him in the middle of the village for everyone to see" The genin flinched at that. This kind of cruelty, Sakura especially didn't think people like that could exist. "I am sorry, that would traumatize anyone" Kakashi said as he left.
"Hi! Can I join you" The Hatake asked the boy "Yep" Inari said. "Don't take Naruto words to heart, he lived a harsh life even harsher than yours" Inari snorted. "He lost his parents at his birth" Inari gasped on hearing that. "And expect few the whole Hidden Leaf hates him for something beyond his control" "What? You are joking right" Kakashi just shook his head. "Then how can" "be so bright" Kakashi finished. "I don't know, Naruto has always been strong. His inner strength is something even I admire"
"What Naruto meant was that people like your grandpa and dad are true heroes" Kakashi finished with an eye-smile. "You know about my dad" "Your family told us about him and I believe he was right" "But he died" Inari said sobbing. "That's true but he died fighting for what he believed in. The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing" Kakashi finished.
"Naruto is right, if everyone in your village had stood against Gato, we really wouldn't be needed" teacher said leaving the boy to his thoughts.
Naruto was asleep in the forest when he suddenly grabbed a hand on his neck. He was ready to pounce at his attacker only to see a pretty girl. "You are awake, I thought you had fallen asleep" she said. "I am sorry, I am not used to people waking me up" Naruto said. "Is it because you are a shinobi" Naruto's eyes narrowed. "How do you know"
"Because you have a headband. Even in Wave people know about Five Great Villages" she said. "Oh sorry, shinobi paranoia and all" Naruto rubbed his head sheepishly.
"What are you doing here" Naruto asked. "I am gathering some herbs" on the confused look. She explained further. "It's for my friend" "Oh! What happened to them" "He was hurt, he is better now. These are to release the pain" "Well let me help you" "Really, Thanks"
"What were you doing in the forest" "Training" Naruto replied. "The whole night" "Yep" "But why? You already look strong" she asked. "But I have to get stronger" "Why?" now looked confused, why does he have to become strong. He never thought about it. Maybe it was to protect himself from Madara. But what if someone else killed then what? "Don't think too hard. Do you have someone precious" "Huh" "Meaning people you care about. I believe people truly become when they have someone precious to protect" "That sounds nice. Yep, I have" Naruto said with smile thinking about his surrogate family. "Then you will become strong" The girl said as she began to leave. "Oye, I never got your name. I am Naruto" "Haku, by the way I am boy" "What" Naruto said as watches shehe leave. He gagged at the thought of finding a boy pretty.
Naruto woke up by the bright light. Fuck, he dozed off again. He cursed as he ran back to Tazuna's house.
Inside Tazuna's house another scene was taking place. Since Sakura and Sasuke's training was complete so all three of them decided to go with Tazuna as Naruto was out. Unfortunately, this was the day Gato and Zabuza picked to attack. The businessman sent his goons to capture Tsunami as the hostage against Tazuna.
Inari heard the commotion and instantly got scared, his mother was held by Gato's goons. "We got her, now the old bridge builder has to quit" one of them said. "It's pity Gato wants her unharmed, she is quite a looker" the other one replied. "Maybe we can get lucky after the old drunk is dead" the first replied laughing.
Tsunami cursed her luck why does all of shinobi has to be out now. The only consolation was that they haven't found Inari. That's why she didn't scream or put up a fight she would give her life if it means her child is safe.
Inari was scared his mom will be taken to Gato. He knew Gato will always win, why does everyone have to be stupid. "You are coward. If everyone was like your grandpa we wouldn't need to be here" "The only thing necessary for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing" I have to try something. Inari then went in his room and grabbed a makeshift crossbow toy and aimed at the one holding his mom.
"Who is it" the bandit screamed. "Leave my mom alone" "I didn't know you had a brat" the other said. "Inari don't be stupid, run" Tsunami pleaded. "I am no coward mom" Inari yelled back. "We will see that after I am done with you" the one who got shot replied. "If you do anything I will bleed to death" Tsunami warned. "Sure" the other one said knocking her out.
Inari gulped and readied himself, "Now you little brat first I am gonna take your hands" the larger man said bringing his sword out as Inari readied himself.
A scream was heard as Inari saw a kunai threw the man's arm. "Hurting kids, bandits really are the lowest of low" "Naruto" Inari yelled happily. "Who are you" Naruto didn't give any answer instead he just shunshined in front Inari and gave a roundhouse to the guy sending him flying. He then threw four kunais on the man's hands and feet pinning him on the wall.
"Don't try shinobi I will kill her" the other thug said pointing his sword at Tsunami. "Really, go for it" Both Inari and thug were stunned. "Don't you hear me brat" "Naruto" Naruto signalled Inari to shut up. "Yeah man just go for it, but at least look who are you trying to kill" on which the thug looked and was surprised his partner their instead of Tsunami. Naruto instantly flickered in front, still in air he used the thug's confusion to advantage and slashed his arm before knocking him out with handle chop on neck.
"Mom" Inari yelled as ran towards Tsunami. Naruto lifted Tsunami and put her on the couch where Inari brought water to wake her up. Tsunami when awoke instantly hugged her son. "Inari you alright, did they hurt you" "No, mom Naruto saved me" on which Tsunami looked at Naruto standing there. "Thank you again. I don't even have the words to tell you how grateful I am" Tsunami muttered holding her son. "No problem just doing my job" Naruto said rubbing his head.
"Is there a safe place I can take you two. I have to get back to my team, I think Zabuza might have attacked now too" Naruto said. "I know a friend" Tsunami said. "Let's go, and Inari that was pretty brave of you" on the praise Inari beamed. "You really think so" he muttered. "I am sorry for calling you a coward. You are no coward, still whinny though" Inari grumbled as Naruto laughed. Tsunami would have intervened telling Inari it was stupid but she will do it later. She would let him have it.
Tazuna and the others arrived on the bridge to find it empty. "Lazy fuckers" Tazuna said. "I don't think so. Tazuna get back" Kakashi said as he saw the mist. "They aren't lazy old man just sleeping" Zabuza voice came out. "You look recovered Zabuza" Kakashi said. "Yup, and now I am here to even the scores Hatake" Zabuza replied. "Where is the Uzumaki brat" "Not needed for likes you" Sasuke spoke. "You have some spunk punk." Zabuza chuckled "But its not me you are fighting. Haku" The hunter came out too. "Hunters are supposed to be hidden Zabuza-sama" Haku spoke in a monotone voice. "Like you need to hide for these brats" "Sasuke, Sakura protect Tazuna" Kakashi ordered as he removed his headband while Sasuke's own sharingan turned on.
Haku went for the builder to be intervened by Sasuke. The hunter tried to get pass the Uchiha but no matter what couldn't. "You are able to keep up with my speed" Haku spoke surprised. "I have to keep with a physical freak my whole life. Experience helps" Sasuke retorted as the Uchiha went for a kick which the hunter blocked. The two shinobi engaged in a deadly dance of taijutsu.
Haku has to say the Uchiha was good. It was first time someone younger than him has kept up in close combat. Sasuke really thanked Kakashi for his training. Haku was very precise, even more than him. If he hadn't trained for this the hunter might have gotten him. Currently they were even for the most part as both haven't gotten any good hits.
"Sorry, this ends now" Haku spoke as he casted hand signs for Needles of Death and threw thin water needles at the Uchiha who responded with Great Fireball engulfing the needles. "You are right it ends now" The Uchiha casted multiple hand signs and went for False Darkness, the hunter blocked the spear using Wind Wall. "Of course, you would have wind release" Sasuke muttered. "To think a genin would have two elemental affinities. But unfortunately for you I have three" Ice Release: Frozen Capturing Field.
Kakashi was having his own rematch with Zabuza, as the Demon of the Mist tore through is second kunai. "Really Hatake you are getting too arrogant if you think you can stop me with a kunai" Zabuza snarled in anger. Kakashi backflipped and threw a Wind Bullet at Zabuza who cut through it. Putting the sword on his back Zabuza casted hand signs for Earth Flow Spears, Kakashi backflipped, jumped and then used Electromagnetic Murder to send a wave of lightning to destroy the spears. Kakshi then created a Wind Blade from his left hand to block Zabuza's assault mid-air. "I have to say Kakashi, besides Yagura and Kisame you are strongest shinobi I ever fought." "Unfortunately, I can't grant you the access to my top 3." Kakashi said in a mock apologetic tone. Zabuza chuckled and replied "Don't worry, you will by the end of this mission" "Not trying to take my head now" "I tried last my time and realized I can't beat you in one-on-one combat but I don't have to" "You have too much trust in your hunter" Zabuza chuckled "Why wouldn't I, Haku has never let me down. He has been with since I betrayed Yagura. That boy is exceptional had the Uzumaki been there it would have been difficult with all three of them" "Sasuke and Sakura are easily more than a match. Sasuke is an heir to the Uchiha main family and Sakura is no slouch" Kakashi replied.
"Itachi Uchiha's little brother, now that would have been trouble. But Sasuke is not the only one with a clan. After all, Haku is the last holder of one of the Mist's most dangerous bloodline. Haku's full name is Yuki Haku" Kakashi eyes widened on hearing that as Zabuza charged again.
Sasuke was surprised seeing Ice form out of nothing which allowed himself to be captured. He would have been dead by the hunter's senbon if Sakura hasn't intervened. "Sakura Thank you" "Thank later and escape first" she yelled barely holding against Haku's speed.
"Your aptitude for genjutsu is really good. Had I not been a hunter one of those minor genjutsu you tried would have gotten me" Haku admitted as he charged at Sakura again who started casting hand signs and created a Mud Wall one of the few jutsus Kakashi taught her after finding out her affinity. Haku teared the walls with a Wind Blade nearing towards Sakura who tried to dodge barely getting multiple cuts. Haku was about to end the kunoichi before he was forced to didge multiple flame-lit shurikens.
The Uchiha has freed himself "Get away from her" Haku didn't respond and charged towards the larger threat. The hunter brought a long senbon with him matching against the Uchiha's sword. Another exchange followed which stunned Sasuke as the hunter was able to keep up against his sword with just a senbon. "You are either pretty stupid or arrogant to fight the apprentice of one of the Seven Swordsman in the Mist with a sword" Haku commented. Sasuke didn't respond more of he wasn't able to as the hunter was now overwhelming him in close combat, Haku's higher speed and skill was becoming too much even with his Sharingan.
The Uchiha jumped back and dropped his sword to release a small fireball which erupted into a massive fire stream raging towards the hunter. Haku reading the situation and surroundings casted a jutsu that he would normally avoid due to chakra cost. The Yuki much to surprise of the genin started casting hand-signs single handedly which moved the nearby water around the bridge to slam on the fire like water fall. Haku taking the advantage of the steam rushed in at the Uchiha who barely had time to dodge thanks to Kakashi's training.
Sakura seeing Sasuke barely hanging-in decided to help him. The kunoichi grabbed a kunai and charged at the hunter who saw her coming dodged her which gave enough time for Sasuke to get his sword. The genin duo tried to overwhelm Haku but due to the speed difference and poor teamwork he was able to hang-in much easily. Unfortunately, his speed wasn't enough to get away from them to kill the bridge- builder as every time he tried to get away the Uchiha would be on him allowing the pinkette to catch up. Cursing under his mask Haku decided to end it. The Yuki started casting hand-signs from one hand again, the genin tried to stop him but weren't fast enough. Demonic Mirror Ice Crystals the hunter-nin muttered as several large mirrors of Ice surrounded the genin creating an unescapable dome. "You fought well but this ends now" Haku muttered before disappearing into one of the mirrors.
"You really have some great genin Hatake" Zabuza said looking at the fire Uchiha has probably created. "Unfortunately, they will die" he added as both them saw the water crashing onto the bridge anguishing the moving flames. "You should care about more of your own life than others Zabuza" Kakashi said with his twin kunais bursting with thunder. Zabuza blocked Hatake's attacks and responded "You haven't given me anything that would scare me" Kakashi enraged charges at Zabuza the swordsman surprised by the aggravated assault counters it with ease due to far less precision. Zabuza's swords cut through Kakashi's kunai swinging them away as the Kiri-nin gives a large slash to the stunned copy-nin. Kakashi's bled and fell back on one knee. Zabuza chuckled "To think I only have to insult you to lose your composure. Pretty disappointing Hatake Kakashi" Zabuza said as he went to finish the job.
The swordsman was bewildered when his went through nothing as heard sound of birds chipping. He pulled his sword to block the Hatake but Hatake's jutsu went through Zabuza's sword piercing his shoulder. Chidori Kakashi said. "How, when… Genjutsu since when" "Since the time you taunted me Zabuza. Sharingan: Hallucination one of the greatest abilities of the eye." Kakashi explained as went to end the mist-nin, Zabuza in pure desperation head butted Kakashi before kicking him away.
Kakashi looked at Zabuza and said "It's over Zabuza your sword is broken. Surrender and you can leave with only bruised pride" "Surrender, I would rather die here then run away Hatake" the swordsman than put his broken sword under his gash. Kakashi looked bewildered when the sword started regenerating from Zabuza's blood. "What's with the look, did you think Kubikiribōchō is just large sharp slab of iron." Zabuza charged again, Kakashi came out of his stupor to block but Zabuza kicked him in the stomach sending Hatake back and continuing his assault.
Sasuke and Sakura were in bad trouble. They had bruises all over them. The moment Haku pulled out those Ice Mirrors. The fight turned into survival. No, the hunter was hunting them. "Give up, I don't like to kill especially children. Let me have the bridge builder and I would leave you alive" Haku propositioned. "Children, you don't look much older jackass." Sasuke responded. "And we won't let you have Tazuna-san" Sakura added. "You made your choice" Haku moved as Sasuke and Sakura readied themselves. "Left" was all heard from Uchiha's mouth as the hunter threw multiple senbons at them. Sakura barely dodged a few but one of them hit her in the thigh. Sasuke saw Sakura fall down on her knees as screamed in pain. "Give up, your teammate can't stand up you can't defend both of you" Haku warned again. "Damn it" Sasuke said as he released another fireball in desperation. But like before it has no effect. "Very well, I am sorry"
Haku's assault continued but this time he started targeting Sakura who couldn't move. Sasuke was forced to save her with his sword, had Uchiha didn't had his Sharingan one of those would have hit his vitals. But due to his bloodline he could pinpoint which will hit his or Sakura's vitals blocking them only. But that strategy wasn't ideal as even the senbons which weren't aimed at their vital points were still causing many bruises and cuts. "We are losing blood at a fast rate. A few more minutes and we would die by blood loss. I can't keep up alone with Sakura out. Where the fuck are you Naruto" Sasuke's thoughts were stopped when he saw senbons again. The Uchiha was surprised when he saw another one hit his calf. "He used Sakura as a bait. I barely moved in time for it deviate enough. But now I can't move freely"
"If I get the Uchiha down, the it's all over. Using Ice senbons with Ice Mirrors might be too costly. But it will definitely end it" Haku then decided to go for it. "Sasuke-kun, you try to escape I will try to hold him with a genjutsu. I am nothing bit target like this" Sakura said with a broken voice. "Sakura, you have very low opinion of me if you think I would abandon my teammate to death" Sasuke said scathingly. Sakura was about to respond before they saw multiple senbons again. But this time they were Ice senbons, the genin screamed internally as Sakura brought her kunai to protect whatever she could. While Sasuke dodged and blocked a few before he saw one coming for Sakura's liver and at the same time coming for his spine. "No, no no my first mission won't go like this" The Uchiha's emotion went ahy-wire as went to save Sakura much to his surprise he reached there early giving him time to block both. The Uchiha then much to everyone's surprise was able to keep with ten's of ice senbons coming from everywhere. Haku extremely was astonished as hell. "You have evolved" he said stopping his assault. Sasuke didn't understand at first but when his reflection, he saw three tomoes in both his eyes. The final stage of Sharingan.
"But you are too tired to continue. Senbon will be waste of time now" Haku said cancelling the mirrors to conserve his own chakra. The last Yuki charged at the Uchiha with a senbon, Sasuke met him in between with his new sharingan he was able to keep up with the Yuki's precision and speed even after being tired. But unfortunately he forgot Haku's use of ninjutsu. Yuki used his spare to hand to cast Ice Release: Ice Dust freezing his arm and then breaking it to release multiple ice shards. Sasuke dodged multiple of them but even when he saw Haku coming his body couldn't. Haku was to cut the Uchiha's jugular vein when he blocked and kicked away. "Nobody is allowed to kill that asshole" the new voice. "Naruto" Sakura sighed in relief. Sasuke took a breadth too. "What took you so long jerk" he said in annoyance. "Hey! Hero arrives at last to save the day. Like Goku on Namek" Sasuke just chuckled. "Be careful he is dangerous. He has bloodline that let him control ice besides being a hunter" Sasuke said as he took step back to rest.
Haku looked at the Uzumaki and frowned. The Uzumaki alone wouldn't be that much of a problem. But Haku was low on chakra and Uzumaki was a fresh boat and his arrival gave Uchiha time to recover. He has to treat this carefully. The Yuki defended Naruto's assault with his senbon. He saw the physical difference between Naruto and his teammates and even himself. Sasuke was reacting to his speed due to his eyes while Sakura was straight up outclassed. Naruto on the other hand was as fast as him normally while being stronger too. And if rumours of the clan's legendary stamina were right, then close up fight is his worst option.
Unfortunately, Naruto also knew that and the moment Haku's tries to create a distance he closes it with a Shunshin. This was getting now overwhelming for Haku as Naruto's unlike Sasuke wasn't as precise but much more relentless. He kept coming left, right, up, down from everywhere. Haku was getting annoyed there hasn't be any noteworthy hits that has slip his guard but if this continues it won't be for long before his whole guard is broken. Haku then tried to use the same strategy he used on Sasuke and fortunately or unfortunately Naruto has seen this and was in shape well enough to avoid it but it also gave Haku the much-needed distance. "Fuck it Demonic Mirror Ice Crystals" Haku then created his crystals around Naruto who like his teammates initially was surprised by the jutsu.
"Sakura can you cast the genjutsu that Kakashi taught you" Sasuke asked on which she nodded. "Good be ready on my signal" "Naruto be careful, he can travel between those mirrors instantaneously" Naruto was able to hear Sasuke before he got the live demonstration of Haku going into the mirrors and sending multiple senbons on him which the Uzumaki dodged but some still scratched him. Haku didn't stop and continued his assault which Naruto then decided to dodge using shunshin for which Haku was faster as he went in-front or behind Naruto the moment he stopped and attacked again. "Fuck, shunshin isn't enough" Naruto cursed. "Do you really think nobody tried to escape using shunshin" Haku mocked. Naruto flipped the hunter and replied, "Well sorry for you I just have the devil's luck" Not understanding it Haku continued and was surprised when Naruto stood there without any weapon. But then it happened the moment senbons were about to hit him a large gust of wind repelled them and threw Naruto straight at Haku who had enough time to only move towards the mirror on his left. Naruto groaned as his punch only hit the mirror cracking it. Assassin's Rush the hunter muttered. "How does a genin knows that"
"I am awesome like that" Naruto responded. "Let's see who gives up first" Haku for the first time was in serious trouble. Naruto's jutsu made sure Haku's senbons were useless but Haku was able to barely dodge by moving to the adjacent mirror. But the problem was Haku's jutsu was more chakra costing and despite his superior control he was already law on chakra and if he wasn't there was no chance, he has more chakra than a Uzumaki. If the Uchiha recovered its all over for him. He didn't get to plan as Naruto was in-front with his sword this time Haku again moved to the left. And thus began the game of cat and mouse between them Haku would dodge and try to hit Naruto with senbons and Naruto would use Assassin's Rush to attack Haku. "I can't keep using it. I have already used it four time. Ten times continuously and I won't know where I would go"
Naruto then tried to mic some regular shunshin in there but Haku's wasn't having it as the hunter seeing this his only opportunity pounce on it. Naruto was bruised up again. Naruto was getting frustrated and so was Haku. But only one them had back up. Naruto saw Sasuke signalling something in a morse code. The Uzumaki nodded and started using Assassin's Rush again, Haku surprised was again on the backfoot. The Yuki then sensed the Uchiha coming from left and dodged to right. Sasuke's sharingan saw that and he immediately moved right but Haku has already moved. "A good strategy but unfortunately I am faster than you" Haku taunted. Sasuke and Naruto ignored him and charged again on the third time Haku sensed something different. He sensed Uchiha coming from both sides. His brain screamed genjutsu as he dispelled it just in moment to move left into Sasuke's fire covered sword. Sasuke pierced the Yuki's torso not completely but enough to stop him from moving which also dispelled the mirrors. Naruto in that moment delivered a blow to the Yuki's mask knocking him out of Uchiha's sword onto the ground.
"What, he was annoying with his jutsu. Do you know for long I have been trying to hit him" Naruto responded to Sasuke's look. "But how, I broke through the genjutsu" Haku asked. "You broke through the first one" Sakura responded. "What" Double Mirage Illusion "It was two layered genjutsu basically covering the illusion in another illusion. The original Sasuke was always on the left" Sakura explained. "Awesome Sakura" Naruto praised as he went towards the hunter and lifted him up which completely broke the cracked mask. "Wait Haku" Naruto exclaimed surprised. "Yeah, that's his name" Sasuke replied. "How do you know that" he further questioned. "He found me in the forest unconscious and could have killed me but didn't" Naruto explained. "I should have, Zabuza-sama always that my emotions would be my weakness" Haku replied mirthlessly. "You can't kill people that's why you didn't finish me ad Sakura. You were trying to knock us out" Sasuke explained to which Sakura gasp was heard even from back. "If you went for the kill there is no way I could have kept both of us alive" Sasuke said more to himself then others.
"What are you to waiting for. End me or it will cost you like it costed me" Haku said. "No, I can't kill someone who spared us" Naruto replied. "Well, he hasn't killed anyone yet. But Haku, doesn't need to know that" "I didn't spare you; I was too weak to kill you. Zabuza-sama doesn't need a weak tool" "Ok what's your obsession with Zabuza. You look more loyal to Zabuza than Kiri" Sasuke asked it was getting annoying. He has heard whole this shinobi are tools for village speech but it was first hearing it for a person. "Because I am, Unlike Konoha a few years from before bloodlines weren't welcomed in Kiri" "You guys were killed for having a bloodline. We know that" Naruto replied. He has gotten what the mission was from Kakashi after the whole world knew Konoha was involved. "Yeah, my whole clan was mascaraed too. Leaving my mother the only survivor and me. One day my father who wasn't a bloodline holder found out and killed my mother to appease Yagura. I ran before they could kill me. My mother sacrificed herself to give me that window. Since then, I lived on streets without any purpose or meaning. It was then Zabuza-sama found me and gave me the purpose to be his tool and meaning to serve him. If I can't do that there is no need for me to live" Haku finished his tale and Naruto smacked him. "What kind of idiot are you, so just because Zabuza helped you, so became his tool. What kind of mindset is that. Does that mean I should also" he stopped there.
Haku looked puzzled, "Besides this only one mission. Call Zabuza out and you can serve him again. Keep this going and there will no master for you to serve" Sasuke added. Haku was about to respond before another voice was heard. "There will no be master to serve or servant for service boys"
The fight between Zabuza and Kakashi has turned into sheer survival. Kakashi trying to survive from Zabuza's madness and Zabuza trying to survive Kakashi. Zabuza has bruises all over him, the major being the Chidori while many other wounds and burns. Kakshi wasn't unscratched his jonin vest was destroyed. His left shoulder has large cut and his right hand was all but useless. Zabuza has attacked like mad dog no beast without caring for his own safety. The Demon really showed his colours letting go any ninjutsu for pure swordsman ship in rage. But his rage hasn't dulled anything moreover Zabuza has become more precise, more lethal as he attacked. It was like watching a mad genius and had Kakashi not be one on his onslaught he would have appreciated.
But now this way annoying he was getting tired and needed to end this but Zabuza wasn't giving him any edge. Always closing the distance before even Kakashi creates it. He was worried about his kids, he has sensed Naruto's arrival but still it was no guarantee that even with Naruto, the three of them would enough for the hunter especially after being told the hunter was the last Yuki.
Both jonins were surprised when they saw and sensed tens of civilian signatures. They removed the mist to check and found Gato. "Gato what are you doing here" Zabuza asked. "As you have any right to ask Zabuza. Look at you barely hanging and your pet is already down. It seems hiring Kiri was a waste" Gato responded. "Well, it wasn't like I was gonna pay you." "What" "Even if you have won, I would have killed you and reported the mission as failure. Why should I pay you shinobi when these bandits would do that for much less" Gato taunted. "You little fucker. I am going to kill you. We have truce Hatake" Zabuza more or less ordered which Kakashi nodded. He really didn't wanna continue too.
"Kill me what with your broken body against 60 men" Gato asked mockingly. "He may not but we will" Gato and his men were stunned to see the villagers around them. "Oye! Naruto Hero always arrives at last" Inari shouted. Now Naruto, Sasuke has joined the jonin with Tazuna while carrying Haku and Sakura. "You are too late brat" Naruto replied. "You, village idiots think you can kill me. Think about it I will decrease the taxes, give you your ports back" Gato purposed now being outnumbered. "It won't work now you rat. We have seen this before" Tazuna shouted. "Even if it would have it wouldn't on me" Zabuza replied.
"Come on Zabuza, I was joking join us and I will increase your pay" Gato now pleaded. "I will join you ….. in hell you rat" Zabuza said charging through the bandits. "Kill him who gets his head will be rewarded whatever he wants" Gato said as tried to escape with some bandits but was blocked by the angry village men. "Stay here, I should help to end it quickly" Kakashi said as he joined Zabuza to help him tear apart the bandits.
"Zabuza leave Gato for the villagers" Kakashi asked as they had cleaned up most the bandits and saw the villagers has beaten up Gato's guards and captured him. "Fine, I won't kill him before they do their thing" Zabuza said as he walked towards the crowd with the help of his sword.
"Take your turns everyone. Don't kill this bastard till you have given him enough" someone shouted. The villagers started beating him up one by one. Tazuna by now has joined. "What are you doing here" A villager asked in fear after seeing Zabuza. "I am not here to interrupt, just to take his head off when you are done. Or does anyone of you wants to do it" Zabuza said to which others looked between each other and nodded.
We again find ourselves to the bridge but with much different circumstances. Another week has passed since the battle of the bridge. Things were looking up better now especially for the villagers. After everyone has taken their frustration on Gato, Zabuza beheaded him causing some uneasiness but at the end nobody cared. Speaking of Zabuza, he and Haku have recovered although the people of Wave weren't keen on helping him but Kakashi's word of that this was standard for shinobi and Zabuza being high up in mist helped it. Zabuza reluctantly also added that he will make sure Mist is open for Wave citizens again.
Now with both teams recovered with lot of awkwardness between the kids were ready to depart. "So, you are leaving" Inari asked as many citizens of Wave have come up to say goodbyes. "Yup, don't worry I will visit" "And this time we will prepare a better welcome" the matron of orphanage said as she has come with some kids to say goodbye. Let's after Gato's defeat Naruto has become an icon for Wave orphans especially when they found he gave them food and was an orphan too. Him showing off his tricks after the battle might have also added. "Prepare some Ramen for me" Naruto said.
"That's it Zabuza. Say my greetings to Mei and the others" Kakashi said. "That's Mizukage-sama for you Hatake" Zabuza replied. "I think I will get a pass, after all I got another pass too. Let's just Mei's body definitely reacts to her bloodline" "You" Zabuza muttered stunned to which Hatake gave a cheeky blink.
"Goodbye, and I am sorry for hurting you especially you Sakura-san" Haku bowed. "You have apologized enough Haku-san. Besides I am a kunoichi so I understand" Sakura replied. "Thank you Naruto-san, Sasuke-san for helping me" "Don't mention it. Just remember you aren't anybody's tool" Naruto replied. "I will try" Haku responded as they shook hands. "Well brat I would like to square my sword with you when you grow up" Zabuza said. "What, why me?" "Because Uzumaki have produced some of the best swordsmen in history and since you use sword you better live up of give up the sword" he added. "Just you wait, Zaza I will knock you down soon" Naruto replied.
"I think we have done enough chatter we are already late. So, let's depart" Kakashi ordered as both shinobi teams bid their way.
"They are gone" Inari said. "But they gave us a great story to tell" The matron replied. "Yup, a story of courage, determination and hope" Tazuna said. "I got why don't we name the bridge the Hero Bridge for all of our heroes from Kaiza to Naruto" Tsunami suggested which was met with heavy cheers. "That's a good too although I was thinking of The Great Tazuna Bridge" Tazuna reply was met with boos. He sulked as Wave finally breathed in peace with a new bridge and new heroes.