In Bloom and in Battle

by Privation

After an untimely death, a woman awakens in a world she knows only from manga and anime—Naruto. Reborn as Kimiko Yuhi, the younger sister of Kurenai, she must navigate her new life in the Hidden Leaf Village, grappling with the disorientation of infancy and the reality of a ninja's world.

11. Chapter 11: Water Lily (Land of Waves 2)

Water Lily II [Land of Waves]

Kimiko sat gracefully beside Kakashi's futon, her posture straight, legs crossed, and a paper fan in her hand painted with the soft hues of a pink sunset. She fanned herself lightly, her expression serene but her eyes sharp with focus. With her free hand, she adjusted the damp towel resting on Kakashi's forehead.

"Chakra depletion shouldn't be this severe…" she murmured, her gaze scanning his unconscious form. Though she lacked formal medical ninjutsu training aside from anatomy and physiology as well as toxicology, her knowledge of chakra theory as sufficient to identify the problem when she took a closer look. Kakashi's reserves were dangerously low—not unusual after a battle like the one they'd faced, but now that she examined him closely, the strain made more sense.

Her eyes softened as they traced the subtle lines of fatigue etched into his face. Kakashi's chakra reserves, though exceptional and no doubt impressive, were a far cry from Naruto's boundless energy—or even her own, but that wasn't the issue, not when his chakra control was pristine. His true burden was the Sharingan, the implanted legacy of his fallen Uchiha teammate.

The eye, though dormant, drained his reserves constantly, a foreign presence demanding sustenance from a body not built to house it. Like a parasite, it fed on him relentlessly, and when used actively, its appetite only grew, leaving him dangerously depleted.

Which led to their situation. The eye's constant drain forced him to exhaustion after the battle, as it drew what little of his chakra still remained, forcing his body to rest until its reserves could refill. She was just happy it seemed to stop draining him of chakra the moment he fell unconscious, otherwise, he might have suffered from Chakra Fatigue.

Kimiko leaned back slightly, fanning herself slower as she let the thoughts settle. "You really are pushing yourself beyond your limits, Sensei," she muttered softly, more to herself than him. Her lips pressed into a thin line. She admired his resolve but couldn't ignore the potential consequences of his Sharingan use. The Sharingan might be his greatest tool, but it came at a steep cost.

The room was quiet except for Kakashi's measured breaths and the faint rustle of her fan. However, that quickly ended when she felt Kakashi stir beside her. She paused and her gaze fluttered down at him, watching his eyes creak open.

The room was quiet, save for the steady rhythm of Kakashi's breathing and the faint rustle of Kimiko's paper fan. She sat beside his bed, her posture straight but relaxed, her eyes focused on him with a mix of concern and calculation.

When she noticed him stir, her hand paused mid-sweep. His eyes creaked open, sluggish at first, and then his gaze found hers.

"Nnh… Kimiko?" he murmured, his voice groggy but familiar.

A small smile played on her lips. "Konnichiwa, Sensei."

Kakashi blinked slowly, then began to sit up. Kimiko snapped her fan closed with a crisp motion and lightly tapped him on the forehead with it, her expression soft yet firm.

"You need to rest, Sensei," she said, her tone brooking no argument.

"Hng…" Kakashi groaned, leaning back slightly. "How's Naruto and Sasuke? Where are we?"

Kimiko sighed softly, setting the fan down. "We're in Tazuna's home. Naruto summoned a few clones to carry you here when you collapsed. That Hunter-nin who took Zabuza didn't pursue us, thankfully.."

Kakashi's eye sharpened slightly, the haze of sleep clearing. "That was the absolute worst time for you to act on your suspicions about that Hunter-nin. How did you come to that conclusion, any how?" By the way he asked, Kakashi likely had the same suspicions as he did, but he wanted to make sure she didn't just act on rash instinct.

Kimiko shrugged lightly, "It was obvious if you knew where to look. The poison I smelled on the senbon wasn't lethal, for one. And trying to take Zabuza instead of destroying his body…" Kimiko sighed. "I can't apologize for making that decision, Sensei. We couldn't afford to let Zabuza go, incapacitating him would have allowed us to complete our mission without the threat of a jonin like him attacking." She frowned. "Zabuza will be back to full strength soon, likely. And Kiri-nin don't abandon their missions, you know that."

"Alright, alright…" Kakashi muttered, running a hand through his hair. "And Naruto and Sasuke?"

"They're patrolling the perimeter," Kimiko replied easily. "Naruto has three clones on lookout duty and one assisting Tazuna-san at the bridge. He's keeping one clone here in case we need to alert him, or vice versa." Using shadow clones for near-instant communication was invaluable, and it just refined Kimiko's belief of how versatile shadow clones could be.

Kakashi raised a brow, impressed despite himself. "Do you three even need a sensei? That's solid coordination."

Kimiko's lips quirked into a faint smile. "Naruto and Sasuke have improved a lot, even if they still butt heads."

Kakashi chuckled softly, resting his head back against the pillow. "Those two butting heads is as natural as breathing."

"They're different," Kimiko said thoughtfully. "But they're both great ninjas in their own way. That's why I'm here—to make sure they work together."

"Well, Kimiko, I think you're doing just fine." He paused, a smirk tugging at his lips. "But if you ever want to give me a heads-up next time you decide to attack a Hunter-nin, I'd appreciate it. Now, I think we ought to talk to have a team meeting."

It didn't take long to call Naruto and Sasuke back, and before long the two arrived, excited to hear from their now conscious sensei.

The tiny riverside house was modest but inviting, its wooden walls aged and worn with the charm of a lived-in home. The faint scent of fresh water wafted in from the nearby river, mingling with the faint creak of floorboards underfoot. The living room was cramped, with everyone seated on the floor around Kakashi's futon. Tazuna and Tsunami stood nearby, their gazes heavy with concern.

Kakashi, now sitting upright with a pillow supporting his back, scanned his team. "I'm sure you're all aware by now—Zabuza is likely still alive."

Naruto didn't react, nor did Sasuke, they already went through that when Kakashi was asleep. Kimiko, her fan resting lightly in her lap, folded her hands neatly and nodded.

"Thanks to Kimiko's foresight," Kakashi continued, glancing at her, "we confirmed that Zabuza's survival is almost certain. Not only that, but he has the backing of not just Gato, but another ninja. One who's faster than Kimiko and potentially stronger than all of you."

Kimiko's fingers tightened briefly around her fan. She couldn't argue. Haku was likely much faster—she only kept up because he had held back. She remembered his hesitation, the way his movements lacked lethal intent. Just like Zabuza... their actions weren't driven by malice but by necessity. Was that the disappointment she'd sensed in Zabuza? Regret that he had to kill children? She didn't know. But what she did know was in the anime, Haku kept pleading for Naruto and Sasuke to stop fighting as he hated hurting people, and that Zabuza immediately stopped fighting Kakashi when it was clear Gato betrayed him and had no intention of honoring their deal.

"But let's talk about Zabuza," Kakashi's voice broke her thoughts. His sharp eye met hers for a moment before sweeping across the group. "What did you notice during the fight?"

Naruto leaned forward, his hand shooting up like they were back at the Academy. "He's got this huge sword! Like, bigger than Kimiko! And those hand seals—he's crazy fast at them!"

Sasuke scoffed, arms crossed. "Idiot."

Kimiko stifled a laugh behind her hand. For all his battle instincts, Naruto's observations were... unpolished.

"Kimiko?" Kakashi prompted, his gaze shifting to her.

She straightened, her voice calm. "He's strong, yes, but..." She hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "His actions were detached, almost impersonal. His goal was to kill the target—not harm us unless necessary. Even the Hunter-nin who rescued him made no effort to fight us once you collapsed, even if he could have killed the three of us. Their priority was retrieving Zabuza, not engaging us."

Tsunami and Tazuna exchanged uneasy looks, their tension palpable. Kimiko didn't share any of it. She was a Kunoichi of the Leaf now, not some corporate manager. Death was an everyday occurrence.

Tazuna's voice broke the silence. "What's stopping them from coming after us now?"

"They can," Kakashi admitted, his tone even. "But Zabuza's in no condition to track us down. We did a number on him."

Kimiko nodded. "And the part of the neck targeted by the Hunter-nin... it's meant to put the body in a near-death state, which has lingering effects once he's revived." She paused, glancing at Tazuna. "Zabuza's movements will be hampered for a while, even especially with the injuries he sustained."

Kakashi's brow rose slightly. "You analyzed that much?"

Kimiko's lips quirked into a faint smile. "I managed to see the part that they hit, anatomy is important in poison making and kenjutsu." It was true what they said about a ninja's body being a trove of information.

Tazuna frowned, his hand rubbing the back of his neck. "So we've got some breathing room. But... how long before he's back on his feet?"

"A week, maybe less if his ally knows what they're doing, and I wouldn't put it past him to recover quicker." Kakashi replied. "It's a temporary advantage."

Naruto slammed a fist into his palm. "Then we just need to prepare before they come back!"

"Easier said than done, idiot," Sasuke snapped. "They're stronger than us."

Kimiko sighed softly, fanning herself once. "Which is why we prepare. Zabuza is a professional. He won't stop until he fulfills his mission."

Kakashi's visible eye crinkled in approval. "Exactly. Preparation is a shinobi's greatest tool. Which is why, until I'm fully recovered, you're all going through training."

Naruto punched the air, excitement lighting up his face. Even Sasuke's stoic expression softened with a subtle nod. Kimiko tilted her head, intrigued.

"You've all grown rapidly," Kakashi continued, his gaze sweeping over them. "Far beyond my expectations, and in such a short time. You're exceptional genin, with exceptional teamwork." His eye landed on Naruto. "Especially you, Naruto. You've grown the most."

Naruto's grin stretched ear to ear, and Kimiko couldn't help but smile. She placed a hand on his shoulder, giving his hair a playful ruffle. "See? Told you," she teased softly.

Naruto puffed out his chest, clearly basking in the praise. "Heh, of course! I'm awesome!"

Sasuke rolled his eyes, but Kakashi's voice cut through. "So, what kind of training, Sensei?" he asked quietly, his sharp gaze fixed on their teacher.

"Well," Kakashi began, tapping his chin. "You already know tree walking thanks to Kimiko, and you're decent at water walking. But fundamentals are the backbone of a shinobi's skillset, so we're going to take it up a notch. You'll master water walking in the ocean, staying afloat as long as possible."

Kimiko nodded approvingly. That would push Naruto and Sasuke's chakra control further, and fundamental training was something even seasoned shinobi revisited often.

"Except for you, Kimiko," Kakashi added, his tone suddenly more serious.

Kimiko blinked, surprised. "Why not?"

"I've seen what you're doing with those origami flowers," Kakashi said, tilting his head slightly. "That's a chakra control exercise usually reserved for medical-nin or genjutsu specialists. Given who your sister is, I'm not surprised you've reached that level. But honestly? You're not going to benefit from any chakra control training I can give with little preparation. You need something more... specialized."

Kimiko absorbed the words with a thoughtful hum. It was true—her sister, Kurenai, was renowned as Konoha's best genjutsu user, and her training had emphasized chakra precision, and since Kimiko did it from even before the attended the Academy, it felt elementary to her, that high level of chakra control. Still, it felt strange to be excluded.

"So, what will I be doing?" she asked finally, raising a brow.

Kakashi's gaze turned contemplative. "Work on your personal projects," he suggested. "And accompany Tazuna-san to the bridge to act as watch out."

Kimiko nodded slowly. "That could work," she murmured. "I've been meaning to talk to the locals about Blackroot Sap from their mangroves... and those Tigerstripe Barracuda."

Naruto visibly shuddered, glancing at her with wide eyes. "You're seriously still thinking about poisons? Creepy."

Sasuke side-eyed her as well, muttering, "Figures."

Kimiko huffed, "A lady uses every weapon available at her disposal,"

Kakashi gave her a flat look. "Let's hope you don't scare the locals too much."

"You're all going to die."

The unexpected voice startled Kimiko, and she turned to its source. A young boy with spiky black hair, dark eyes, and a blue-and-white striped hat stood in the doorway. He wore a green jumpsuit over a yellow shirt, his small sandals scuffing the floor as he stepped inside.

"WHO THE HECK ARE YOU?!" Naruto shouted, pointing an accusatory finger at the boy.

"Inari!" Tazuna exclaimed, his tone oddly pleased. He opened his arms as the boy stumbled over, wrapping him in a tight hug. "Where have you been?!."

"Welcome home, Grandpa," Inari murmured.

"Inari, greet our guests properly!" snapped Tsunami, glaring at the boy. "These are the esteemed ninjas who brought your grandfather home safely!"

Inari glanced at them, still clinging to Tazuna. "But okaa-san," Then, with a quiet certainty, he said, "They're going to die."

The bluntness in his voice made Kimiko frown. She studied him carefully—the dullness in his eyes, the way his shoulders slumped. He wasn't being cruel; he was resigned. Inari, she realized, was a victim. Not just of Gato's tyranny, but of the grinding despair of poverty and hopelessness. And for every Inari in this village, there were likely dozens more.

"LISTEN HERE, YOU LITTLE TWERP—" Naruto began, marching toward the boy, but Inari cut him off.

"No one can beat Gato and his men," he said, his voice flat and emotionless.

Naruto froze, his hands curling into fists. "YOU BRAT—"

"Naruto-kun," Kimiko said softly, placing a gentle hand on Naruto's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. He turned to her, his frustration clear, but the quiet reassurance in her eyes made him pause. After a moment, he huffed and stepped back.

"Right, pay attention, little guy," Naruto said, crouching slightly to meet Inari's eye level. "I'm a superhero, and one day I'm going to be a super awesome ninja, one that's called the Hokage—the strongest ninja in the world! I don't care about Gato, or chocolate or his dumb goons. They're nothing compared to me!"

Kimiko's lips curved into a small smile as she watched Naruto. His unshakable optimism was infectious, a beacon even in the darkest of times. But her thoughts drifted as she looked at Inari again.

Inari was a reminder of the harsh truth that most civilians living outside ninja villages faced—an existence fraught with struggles and powerlessness. For shinobi, even the weakest genin, poverty was rarely a concern. A single D-Rank mission could provide enough income for a modest but comfortable life for a few months. Ninja might face death every day, but they wielded power that set them apart from ordinary people.

Civilians like Tsunami and Inari didn't have that luxury. They didn't pray for strength or fame or to become the next Hokage—they prayed for survival. For enough money to put food on the table tomorrow, for the bandits roaming around their town to just be content with stealing their valuables, that they weren't cruel enough to cause worse harm. Inari's despair wasn't cowardice; it was the learned helplessness of someone who had seen too much suffering.

Kimiko glanced at Naruto, his fiery determination undimmed. He had never known true poverty. Neglected, yes—but he had always had a roof over his head, enough food to eat, and the strength to fight for himself.

In a way, being a ninja was its own privilege. Shinobi walked the world knowing that no ordinary man or bandit could lay a finger on them. Civilians, by contrast, lived at the mercy of the conditions of this world, hoping for scraps of mercy in return.

As she watched Inari, her heart ached. How many others in this village shared his hopelessness?

"Hero?" Inari scoffed, his small face hardening with a defiant glare. "You're dumb. There's no such thing. If you don't want to die, you should just go home now."

"Hey, Inari," Kimiko said softly, cutting through the tension. The boy stiffened, his dark eyes darting to her. His defiance faltered, replaced by wide-eyed surprise as he took in her calm expression.

Kimiko offered him a gentle smile, reaching into her pocket. "Let me show you something," she said, pulling out a square of green origami paper.

Inari watched, captivated, as she flowed chakra into the paper. Without even moving her hands, the sheet folded itself with fluid precision, each crease forming seamlessly until it transformed into a delicate, budding flower. She held it out to him, her eyes warm.

"Can any of Gato's men do this?" she asked, her voice light yet confident.

Inari blinked, his gaze flicking between her face and the flower. "...No," he admitted quietly.

"Then that means we're going to win," Kimiko said, her smile widening. She reached out, gently tilting his chin upward so he'd meet her eyes. "Naruto is right—we've already faced the best of his men, and they lost. You just have to trust us."

For a moment, Inari stared at her, his small hands trembling slightly as he took the flower. His lips parted as if to say something, but he hesitated. Without another word, he turned and ran toward the stairs, clutching the origami flower tightly.

"Sorry about that, Tsunami-san," Kimiko said, turning to the boy's mother. Her voice was warm but apologetic. "Naruto can be a bit... boisterous at times."

Tsunami shook her head, her expression softening. "No need to apologize. It's been a while since anyone had the energy to stand up to Inari's gloom."

Kimiko inclined her head politely. "Thank you for being such a gracious host. I'd be more than happy to help you around the house when training permits."

Tsunami smiled. "That's kind of you. Thank you."

Naruto, still brimming with energy, huffed dramatically from his spot nearby. "Boisterous? I was awesome! He's lucky I didn't use my full ninja charm."

Kimiko gave him a sidelong glance, her smile playful. "You mean there's more than this?"

Sasuke snorted softly from the corner, while Naruto puffed up indignantly, his protests filling the small room. Kimiko laughed quietly, fanning herself with a hand. Despite the tension, the moment felt lighter—and Kimiko could only hope it would remain the same.

---

True to her word, Kimiko joined Tsunami in tidying the house, her movements precise and efficient. She found a surprising satisfaction in the simple tasks—folding freshly laundered clothes, sweeping the wooden floors, and organizing the modest kitchen. Her ninja training turned what might have been tedious work into something almost meditative.

Tsunami watched her with a fond smile. "It's like having a daughter helping out at home," she said softly.

Kimiko paused, glancing over her shoulder at the older woman. Her lips curved into a small smile. "That's kind of you, Tsunami-san. I'm happy to help."

By the time evening fell, the house sparkled, and Tsunami's gratitude warmed Kimiko. The domestic rhythm of the household, while starkly different from the world of shinobi, brought a fleeting sense of normalcy she hadn't realized she missed.

The next morning, she and Tazuna left at dawn, walking through the misty village streets toward the bridge. As they approached the construction site, Kimiko's breath caught. She hadn't expected this.

The bridge wasn't a simple wooden structure pieced together by a handful of carpenters. It was a monumental project, the kind she'd seen only in passing in the real world, but had never truly appreciated until now. Massive steel beams arched high into the air, crisscrossing like the skeleton of some enormous beast. Workers in hard hats swarmed the site, shouting instructions and hammering bolts into place. Cranes groaned as they lifted heavy loads, their steel cables taut against the strain. Sparks flew from welding torches, and the metallic scent of freshly cut steel mixed with the salt of the nearby sea.

Kimiko turned to Tazuna, her eyes wide. "This… this is incredible," she said, her voice soft with awe. "It's like…everyone's working together."

The old man chuckled, adjusting his hard hat. "Impressive, isn't it? This bridge isn't just steel and concrete. It's hope for the Land of Waves. Once it's finished, we'll be able to break free of Gato's grip."

Kimiko smiled softly and gave a small nod, appreciating the determination in his words. But the moment was interrupted when another man approached, his boots scraping against the steel framework. His hunched shoulders and clenched fists gave away his unease before he even spoke.

"Tazuna, can I talk to you?" the man asked, his voice low but urgent.

Kimiko turned her gaze toward him. He was another older worker, dressed similarly to Tazuna in worn construction gear. His face was lined with worry.

"Hm? What's wrong, Giichi?" Tazuna asked, frowning.

Giichi hesitated, his hands curling into tight fists at his sides. "I've been thinking about this…" His voice cracked slightly. "The bridge we're working on... I want to leave the job."

Tazuna blinked, caught off guard. "You, out of all people? Out of nowhere? Why?!"

"Tazuna, you know how much I respect you. We've been through so much together. But…" Giichi hung his head, his voice thick with frustration and fear. "We can't take the risk. If Gato decides to target us, our families—everything we've built—will be destroyed. And if you die... this bridge won't mean a damn thing."

The words hung heavily in the air. Kimiko's hand tightened into a small fist at her side. The fear in Giichi's voice was palpable, and she could see it mirrored in the eyes of the other workers nearby. They weren't just afraid for themselves—they feared for their families, for the fragile lives they had managed to hold onto under Gato's oppressive rule.

Tazuna's jaw tightened, and for a moment, his weariness showed. "Giichi, I can't force you to stay. But this bridge—this isn't just about me. It's about giving all of us a chance to stand up against Gato. If we give in now, he wins. He'll always win. But…." Tazuna sighed, "You don't have to come back tomorrow."

Kimiko glanced at the workers who had stopped to listen. Their faces told a story of respect for Tazuna but also of desperation. The weight he carried as their leader was evident.

She turned her thoughts inward. In the anime, they succeeded—didn't they? The details blurred in her memory, but logic dictated that they had a good chance of winning here, too. Zabuza was grievously injured, far worse than in the original timeline, and even if Haku returned, Naruto and Sasuke were much stronger than their counterparts had been. The awakening of Sasuke's Sharingan and Naruto's Nine-Tails chakra seemed inevitable.

Still, a shadow of doubt lingered. Was she underestimating the ripple effects of her presence in this world? Had her actions changed things in ways she couldn't foresee?

Her gaze shifted to Tazuna and Giichi, but her mind wandered briefly to Zabuza and Haku. For all their ruthlessness, they weren't mindless killers. Zabuza, she knew, wasn't cruel. Ruthless, yes—but he lacked the sadism of others like Orochimaru. He had treated Haku as a weapon, true, but in the strict shinobi sense, he had also given the boy more care than his own parents had. Haku, in turn, was fiercely loyal, but not without his own quiet compassion.

Kimiko's thoughts darkened as she considered the broader state of the Mist. Yagura Karatachi, the current Mizukage, was known for his brutal reign. The village's nickname, "The Bloody Mist," wasn't just history—it was still a reality. The number of defectors from Kirigakure spoke volumes about its cruelty. She had overheard whispers in Konoha from certain ninjas deploy east about a resistance forming within the village, though details were scarce.

Could Zabuza and Haku be connected to that resistance? Or did they have their own agenda? The thought lingered, but there was no way to confirm it. What she did know was that the two of them were survivors of a system that devoured its own.

The rest of the day passed in a strained silence after the tense exchange at the bridge. True to his word, Tazuna offered to guide Kimiko to the main town, where he said she might find someone who knew about the Tigerfish Barracuda and Blackroot Sap. He needed to buy ingredients for dinner anyway, so the trip served a dual purpose.

When they arrived, Kimiko's first impression was one of suffocating hopelessness. The main town was little more than an oversized shanty town. The houses were rickety, their wood warped and faded by salt and time. People moved sluggishly through the narrow streets, their clothes threadbare and faces gaunt. Beggars, many of them children, lined the streets, their hands outstretched in silent pleas. The air smelled faintly of mildew and fish, and a faint haze of smoke lingered, likely from poorly ventilated stoves.

Kimiko's eyes flicked to the market stalls. Prices were scrawled on flimsy signs, and her stomach churned when she saw how exorbitant they were for what little was on display. A lone fish sat on one stall's counter, its scales dull, while wilted vegetables filled another. Desperation hung in the air, thick and suffocating.

She also noticed the pickpockets. Young boys and girls with sharp eyes lingered near the edges of the crowd, their movements quick and deliberate. None approached her or Tazuna, though. Her impassive expression, coupled with the tanto strapped to her back, likely made them think twice.

"This town…" Kimiko frowned, her voice soft but cutting through the heavy air. "You need to finish the bridge, Tazuna-san."

Tazuna sighed deeply, his gaze scanning the desolation. "I know," he said, his voice rough. "Our town's full of scared people. People who've given up. This is why the bridge is so important. It's not just a road to the mainland. It's a symbol—a chance to remind everyone that we don't have to live like this. That we can be brave again."

Kimiko nodded, her lips pressed into a thin line. Her eyes caught a child staring at her from behind a stack of crates. The boy's frame was painfully thin, his hands clutching his stomach. Without breaking stride, she reached into her pouch and pulled out a protein bar, holding it out. The boy hesitated, glancing between her face and the offered food. Slowly, he inched forward, snatching it before retreating behind the crates.

Tazuna watched the exchange, his expression softening. "If only we can finish the bridge…" he murmured. "I truly believe our people can be what they once were. We could walk the road of courage and dignity again."

Kimiko glanced at him, her eyes thoughtful. "Then we'll see it through," she said quietly. "One way or another."

Eventually, Tazuna led Kimiko through the winding paths of the dilapidated town until they reached a weathered wooden house nestled among the mangroves. Apparently, the woman living there was a herbalist and a healer, the closest they had left to a doctor.

The air around the house was thick with the scent of salt and decaying leaves, and the faint sound of lapping water echoed in the distance. The house, though small, had an inviting charm, with herbs hanging to dry under the eaves and a garden of medicinal plants surrounding it.

The door creaked open, revealing an old, wizened woman with kind eyes that glistened with unspoken sorrow. She peered at Kimiko for a moment before her lips trembled. "My…Akane? It's been so long, It-" The woman paused, realization dawning. "Ah…forgive me… you look just like my daughter," she murmured, her voice tinged with both warmth and grief.

Kimiko inclined her head respectfully, unsure how to respond. Tazuna stepped forward, breaking the moment's silence. "This young lady is a ninja from Konoha. She has some questions about certain things found in our islands—about the Tigerstripe Barracuda and the Blackwood Sap."

The old woman blinked, then shook her head as if clearing her thoughts. "Ah, forgive me. Come in, child. Let's talk."

Inside, the house smelled of dried herbs and faint traces of camphor. The woman settled into her chair, gesturing for Kimiko to sit across from her. "You're after the barracudas, are you? Fierce creatures. You'll find them in the deeper parts of the mangrove forests," she began, her hands folding over her lap. "They're elusive, though. Fishermen say they're hard to spot, but there's a trick to it."

Kimiko leaned forward, her interest piqued. "What kind of trick?"

"Anchovies," the woman said simply, a small smile gracing her wrinkled face. "They're particularly fond of a certain type found in these waters. Bait your line with those, and you'll catch their attention soon enough. The trouble is keeping your catch once they bite. Those teeth'll slice through most lines before you can blink."

Kimiko's fingers brushed the pouch hanging by her sash, that wouldn't be a problem for her. She had ninja wire. "I don't think that'll be a problem," she said with quiet confidence. "With proper reinforcement, it should hold."

The woman's brow furrowed. "Reinforcement?"

Kimiko smiled faintly. "Shinobi techniques. I can channel my chakra into the wire to make it stronger, sharper. It'll hold, even against the barracuda's teeth." She reckoned she could channel enough chakra through it to kill the barracuda, even.

The old woman nodded, but she didn't seem to understand. Most civilians didn't. "Good. You'll need it. Those fish are drawn to the roots where Blackwood Sap trees grow. Dangerous territory, though. The roots are submerged, and the water's teeming with more than just barracudas."

Kimiko's gaze flicked to the window, where the mangroves loomed in the distance. "Thank you for the advice. I'll be careful."

---

As she expected, the mangroves were absolutely horrid places. Mosquitos roamed around in swarms, leaving little chance for respite, and other critters skittered in the underbrush with unsettling noises. The brackish waters, leading to the open ocean, carried a pungent odor of decay and salt. The damp heat clung to her skin, making her tunic stick uncomfortably to her back. Kimiko wrinkled her nose but steeled herself. This was part of being a kunoichi—working through unpleasant conditions to achieve her goals.

Thankfully, one of the fishermen had agreed to rent her his boat for a few ryo, tossing in a handful of anchovies as bait. "Careful, little miss," he had said gruffly. "Those Tigerstripe Barracudas ain't friendly, even if you do manage to catch one."

"Thank you for your concern," Kimiko had replied politely. "But I'm not entirely defenseless."

Now, seated in the small wooden boat, she pushed off into the calm waters, her oar cutting quietly through the brackish surface. It didn't take long before her finely tuned chakra senses picked up the faint, rippling signature she had been searching for. The barracuda's chakra was sharp and wild, a predator's essence, lurking in the shadowy depths of the mangroves.

Kimiko anchored her boat at the edge of the mangroves, its roots twisting into the water like skeletal hands. She glanced at the bait the fisherman had provided—small, silver anchovies that glinted faintly in the dim light. Then, with careful precision, she began assembling her fishing rod.

From her pouch, she retrieved a length of ninja wire, its metallic sheen glinting faintly in the humid air. She inspected it briefly, ensuring there were no imperfections. Next, she produced the lightweight rod, one she had borrowed from the old woman, who freely let her borrow her late husband's bamboo fishing rod. She attached the ninja wire to the rod, knotting it securely with deft fingers. A small metal ring served as the guide, ensuring the line could move smoothly during the catch.

Kimiko reached into her pouch again, extracting a kunai modified with small barbs along its blade. She tied the kunai securely to the end of the wire, letting it serve as both weight and hook. Carefully, she skewered one of the anchovies onto the kunai, the sharp point sliding through its silvery flesh with ease.

Satisfied with her setup, she infused a faint pulse of chakra into the wire and kunai, enough to reinforce them but not so much as to scare away the fish. Her eyes scanned the water, watching for movement. The surface was deceptively calm, the ripples from the mangrove roots the only sign of life below.

Kimiko cast the line, letting the kunai sink into the dark water. She closed her eyes briefly, extending her chakra senses. The barracuda was still there, lurking just out of sight, its predatory instincts likely piqued by the bait.

For the first few moments, it was silence. Serene, still, silence. Nothing but the mosquitos buzzing in her ear and the gentle creak of the wooden boat beneath her. The brackish water rippled softly, reflecting fragments of the mangrove canopy above. The air was heavy with humidity, clinging to her skin like an unwelcome second layer, but Kimiko didn't mind. She'd endured worse during training.

Honestly, it felt almost therapeutic. She wasn't sparring, wasn't weaving intricate jutsu or debating strategy with her teammates. For once, it was just her, the water, and her thoughts. She allowed herself a small smile, shifting her position to sit cross-legged on the small boat's deck.

She would have loved to be fishing in a clear blue lake—somewhere pristine, with sparkling waters and a gentle breeze. But even this murky, mosquito-ridden swamp had its own charm. There was a rugged beauty to the mangroves, their twisted roots rising out of the water like the fingers of an ancient guardian. And there was a certain satisfaction in knowing she wasn't here for leisure, but purpose. The barracuda wasn't going to catch itself.

Then it came—a ripple, faint but purposeful. Kimiko's heart quickened as she felt the wire jerk, taut and alive with movement. Something powerful had taken the bait.

"There you are," she murmured, a small smile playing on her lips. Her hands tightened on the rod as the ninja wire strained against the force of the fish's struggle. The barracuda was fast—aggressively fast—its strength evident in the way the rod bent and creaked. Kimiko dug her heels into the wooden planks of the boat, bracing herself as she began to reel it in.

The water churned violently, and for a moment, the fish broke the surface. Its sleek, silver body shimmered in the sunlight, stripes of dark gray cutting across its sides like jagged lightning bolts. Its sharp, predatory teeth snapped at the air, and Kimiko couldn't help but admire its ferocity.

"Not so fast," she said coolly, channeling a trickle of chakra into the ninja wire to reinforce it. The barracuda thrashed harder, attempting to dive back into the depths, but Kimiko held her ground. Her muscles strained as she worked against its movements, letting the fish tire itself out with every desperate pull.

After what felt like an eternity, the barracuda's movements slowed. Sensing its waning strength, Kimiko gave one last sharp pull, lifting the fish out of the water and swinging it onto the boat with a satisfying thunk. It flailed wildly, its teeth snapping dangerously close to her shin, but she was ready.

Kimiko stepped forward with practiced precision, pinning the barracuda down with the handle of her tanto. Its thrashing slowed further as it lay trapped beneath her steady grip. She crouched, examining the sleek predator with quiet fascination.

"Tigerstripe Barracuda," she murmured, recognizing its signature markings. Her eyes gleamed with a mix of satisfaction and curiosity. This creature was a treasure trove of venom, an essential ingredient for her future experiments. She carefully secured the fish in a makeshift containment sack, ensuring its sharp teeth were nowhere near her fingers.

As she sat back on her heels, wiping a bead of sweat from her brow, Kimiko allowed herself a small, victorious smile. The silence returned, broken only by the gentle rocking of the boat and the faint hum of mosquitos, but this time, it felt even more serene. She had accomplished her goal.

"Step one complete," she said softly to herself. Then, she turned to the large mangroves behind her. "Now for the Blackroot Sap."

---

The Blackroot Sap had been surprisingly easier to gather than Kimiko anticipated. A precise cut with her kunai allowed the thick, dark liquid to drip steadily into the small vial she had prepared. The viscous sap gave off a faint, acrid odor, and Kimiko worked carefully to avoid spilling a single drop. By the time the vial was capped and secured, the golden rays of the setting sun filtered through the dense mangrove canopy, casting a serene glow over the brackish waters.

Rowing back to town in her rented boat, Kimiko allowed herself a moment of satisfaction. Though the day had been grueling, with mosquitoes and the muggy air pressing against her, completing her task made the effort worthwhile. As the town's modest buildings came into view, their weathered exteriors bathed in the warm hues of dusk, she made her way to Tazuna's home, where Tsunami greeted her with a warm smile.

At Kimiko's insistence, she joined Tsunami in preparing the evening meal. Despite the sparse ingredients—salted fish, root vegetables, and rice—Kimiko's skill in the kitchen turned the humble provisions into something delightful. She simmered a hearty fish stew with diced vegetables, the broth rich and savory, and paired it with carefully shaped rice balls sprinkled with dried seaweed. The aroma of the meal soon filled the house, drawing appreciative glances from Tsunami and even Inari, who had been quietly sulking in the corner.

By the time the food was ready, the household gathered around the small, weathered dining table. Tazuna sat at the head, Tsunami beside him, while Inari begrudgingly slid into his seat. Kimiko set the bowls before them, offering a gentle smile as she took her place among them.

"Itadakimasu," Tazuna said, his voice carrying a note of gratitude as he clasped his hands together. Tsunami echoed the sentiment, and even Inari muttered it under his breath before hesitantly picking up his chopsticks.

As the family began eating, the sounds of contentment replaced the usual tension that hung in the air. Tazuna grinned as he sipped the broth, nodding in approval. "This is incredible, Kimiko. You've got quite the knack for turning next to nothing into a feast."

Kimiko chuckled softly. "It's nothing, really. I just worked with what Tsunami-san had on hand."

Before long, the door creaked open, and Kakashi entered with Naruto and Sasuke in tow. The two younger boys looked utterly spent, their clothes damp with saltwater and streaked with mud. Naruto's hair was a tousled mess, while Sasuke's normally composed expression was replaced with a faint sheen of exhaustion. Kakashi followed behind, his usual unhurried demeanor intact, though even he seemed a touch weary.

Naruto's face lit up as the smell of food reached him. "Is that fish stew?" he exclaimed, practically bounding toward the table. "Man, I'm starving! Kimiko-chan, you're amazing!"

"Careful, Naruto, you'll trip over yourself before you even get to the food," Kakashi said dryly as he eased into a seat.

Sasuke, quieter but no less drawn to the table, glanced at the steaming bowls. Kimiko caught the faint movement of his tongue darting over his lips, and her smile turned sly.

"Hungry, Sasuke?" she teased gently, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

The faintest blush colored Sasuke's cheeks, and he quickly looked away, muttering something under his breath as he slid into his seat. Kakashi's visible eye crinkled slightly in amusement as he took his place beside them.

Naruto, meanwhile, wasted no time. He plopped into his chair and clasped his hands together. "Itadakimasu!" he declared enthusiastically before diving into the food with gusto.

"Itadakimasu," Sasuke echoed quietly, his tone subdued but sincere as he picked up his chopsticks. Kakashi followed suit, murmuring the phrase before taking a measured bite.

The room filled with the sounds of eating and occasional murmurs of appreciation. Naruto, his mouth full, exclaimed, "This is awesome, Kimiko-chan! You should cook all the time!"

Tsunami chuckled softly at Naruto's enthusiasm, while Kimiko shook her head, her smile soft. "Thank you, Naruto. But don't talk with your mouth full."

Kakashi nodded in agreement. "Well done, Kimiko. It's a rare skill to make something so simple this satisfying."

Kimiko glanced around the table, her heart warming at the sight of everyone eating together. Even Inari, who had been glum earlier, seemed to brighten slightly as he enjoyed the meal. For a brief moment, the struggles outside this modest home seemed distant, replaced by a comforting sense of togetherness.

As the meal wound down and the table buzzed with idle chatter—Naruto excitedly recounting his and Sasuke's training escapades to Tazuna and Tsunami—Kimiko's eyes drifted to a picture frame on a nearby shelf. It stood out immediately, its edges worn with time, but most notably, a portion of it was conspicuously torn away. The absence of whoever had been in the photo left an unsettling void. Yet what drew her attention even more was how Inari's gaze seemed glued to it throughout the meal, his small fingers clenched tightly against his knees.

"Excuse me," Kimiko said softly, her eyes lingering on the frame. "I couldn't help but notice… the picture is torn. Was that deliberate?"

The room fell silent. Tazuna froze mid-laugh, and Tsunami stiffened visibly. Inari's expression darkened, his lips pressing into a thin line as he stared harder at the table. Kimiko instantly regretted her curiosity, sensing she'd overstepped.

Before she could redirect the conversation, Tsunami rose abruptly, gathering empty bowls and utensils. "It was a picture of Inari's father," she said, her tone clipped but not unkind. She didn't elaborate as she carried the dishes toward the kitchen.

"Once upon a time, if you will," Tazuna added after a beat, his voice heavy. "He was someone our whole town considered a hero."

At that, Inari's small frame stiffened, his hands curling into fists. Without a word, he slid off his chair and stalked toward the stairs. Kimiko frowned, her gaze following him as he climbed silently, his small footsteps loud in the stillness of the room.

"Inari, where are you going?" Tsunami called after him, her voice laced with both worry and frustration. When he ignored her and continued up the stairs, she raised her voice. "Inari!"

No response came, and Tsunami's shoulders sagged. She turned back toward Tazuna, irritation evident in the tightness of her expression. "Father, I told you time and time again not to bring that up in front of Inari!"

Tazuna sighed heavily, rubbing the back of his neck. His weathered face bore the weight of unspoken memories. "I didn't mean anything by it," he muttered. "I just—"

Kimiko's eyes flicked back to the torn photo. The weight of the unspoken tension in the room pressed against her chest. She had pieced together that Inari's disdain for "heroes" stemmed from something deeply personal. To learn it was so close to him…

Tazuna broke the silence again, his voice quieter now, tinged with both wistfulness and pain. "The man in that picture isn't Inari's birth father," he explained. "But you wouldn't have known it, looking at them. They were as close and loving as any real father and son could be."

Kimiko's eyes softened, her fingers curling into her lap. There was a heaviness in Tazuna's tone that told her this story didn't have a happy ending.

"Inari used to be such a happy kid back then…" Tazuna continued, his words trailing off into silence.

Kimiko folded her hands and dipped her head slightly, the air around the table thick with grief.

"But he changed," Tazuna finally said, his voice cracking just a little. "After what happened to his father."

The unspoken details lingered in the air like a storm cloud. Kimiko's frown deepened as she glanced toward the stairs. The sound of a door closing faintly echoed back down, and she thought of Inari—how small he was, yet burdened with something so heavy.

In the corner of her vision, Naruto shifted uncomfortably, his usual exuberance dimmed by the weight of the conversation. Even Sasuke, typically stoic, frowned slightly, his dark eyes flicking toward the staircase before settling on his own hands.

Kimiko exhaled softly, her resolve quietly firming as she considered the pain etched into the hearts of this family. It wasn't idle curiosity driving her; it was the undeniable weight of their suffering, a burden she couldn't bring herself to ignore. How many more had to endure this kind of despair before something changed?

"Our people…" Tazuna began, his voice heavy with emotion. He removed his glasses and polished them with trembling hands. Kimiko's sharp gaze didn't miss the tear streaks glistening on his weathered cheeks. "And especially little Inari… we've all been robbed of the very meaning of courage because of what happened that day."

The room grew silent, the weight of his words pressing down on them all. Naruto and Sasuke exchanged uncertain glances, while Kimiko's eyes remained fixed on Tazuna, her expression calm but deeply attentive. It was Kakashi who finally broke the stillness.

"What happened?" he asked, his tone gentle but probing. "What could have changed Inari so much?"

Tazuna let out a long, weary sigh, his gaze distant as if replaying a memory too painful to face directly. He rubbed his face with a calloused hand before speaking again. "Let me start at the beginning," he said, his voice steadier now, though no less burdened. "And tell you about the man who our land called a champion… and a hero."

"A champion?" Naruto echoed, tilting his head in curiosity. His eyes flickered with both confusion and intrigue.

Tazuna sighed again, deeper this time, as if preparing himself to dredge up a story that still cut at his soul. "It all began three years ago...our land wasn't much better off than it is now," he began. "But we had hope. Hope in the form of a man… a champion, as we called him. His name was Kaiza."

Kimiko tilted her head slightly, the name unfamiliar but carrying a weight that told her this man had left an indelible mark on these people.

"Inari adored him," Tazuna said, his voice softening. "Kaiza wasn't just strong; he was kind, selfless. He had this ability to make everyone feel safe. Especially Inari. He gave my grandson a kind of strength and courage I hadn't seen before." Tazuna chuckled dryly, though it didn't hold much humor. "Inari used to be so timid. But with Kaiza around, it was like he had someone to believe in. Someone who made him believe in himself."

Kimiko noticed Naruto's expression shift—confusion and curiosity flickering across his face. Even Sasuke, quiet as always, seemed to be listening more intently than usual.

"What happened to him?" Naruto asked, his voice uncharacteristically subdued.

Tazuna clenched his hands together tightly, his knuckles whitening. He looked down at the table, his voice trembling as he continued. "Kaiza... he stood up to Gato. When Gato's thugs tried to take over, Kaiza didn't back down. He fought for us. For our town. For Inari."

Kimiko's chest tightened. She could sense the story's trajectory, and it filled her with an ache she couldn't quite describe.

"He paid for it," Tazuna said after a long pause, his voice barely above a whisper. "Gato made an example of him. They dragged him to the town square, tied him up, and executed him in front of everyone. In front of Inari."

Kimiko inhaled sharply, her hands tightening into fists on her lap. The horror of the situation painted itself vividly in her mind. To witness something like that—especially as a child—it would shatter anyone's faith in the world.

"Inari hasn't been the same since," Tazuna continued, his voice breaking slightly. "He doesn't believe in heroes anymore. And can you blame him? To see the man you admire most, the one who made you believe in courage, struck down like that…" He trailed off, tears pooling in his eyes.

The room fell silent, the weight of the story settling over them like a suffocating fog. Naruto looked stricken, his usual energy replaced by a quiet fury. Sasuke's gaze remained fixed on the table, his jaw tight. Even Kakashi, typically nonchalant, looked solemn, his visible eye glinting with a restrained emotion.

Kimiko exhaled softly, her mind swirling with thoughts. Kaiza had given these people something precious—hope. And Gato had taken it away in the most brutal way imaginable. And Kimiko was quickly realizing how real it was, the brutality of it all, the suppression. This wasn't a cute adventure where she and her team would beat the bad guys. This was them protecting people against an oppressive force that wanted to take what was theirs for no other reason than to line their own pockets.

She was never a political person back in her previous life, content to live and let live, but this…it was something even she would have found detestable.

Naruto's hands slammed onto the table, breaking the silence. "That's it!" he shouted, his voice shaking with anger. "We can't let Gato get away with this! I don't care how strong his thugs are, or how many of them there are—we'll take them all down!" His fists clenched tightly, his knuckles turning white. "We'll finish this bridge, and we'll make sure people like Inari never have to feel that kind of pain again!"

Tazuna's head lifted slightly, his expression weary but touched by the fire in Naruto's words. Kimiko glanced at Naruto, a faint smile playing at her lips despite the heaviness in her heart. His determination was unshakable, and in this moment, she saw the makings of the Hokage he so desperately aspired to be.

"I agree," Kimiko said quietly, her voice steady but resolute.

Sasuke's eyes flicked to her, his expression unreadable, but he gave a small, almost imperceptible nod.

Kakashi leaned back slightly, his gaze sweeping over his team. "Well," he said, his tone thoughtful, "it seems we're all in agreement. This just means we need to ensure we do our mission properly."

---

The next few days passed in a whirlwind of energy. Kimiko could feel the shift in the air, the growing vigor in Naruto and Sasuke's training palpable. Each day, they pushed harder, their determination infectious. Kimiko, never one to be idle, found herself drawn to their efforts. By the third day, she left a shadow clone to watch over Tazuna and made her way to the shoreline where Kakashi oversaw the boys' training.

As she approached, she was surprised to see the progress they'd made. Naruto's clones ran in perfect synchronization across the ocean's surface, while Sasuke pursued them in a relentless chase, his speed nearly matching the blonde's. The once-uneven gap between the two seemed to have closed dramatically.

"Yo, Kimiko," Kakashi greeted lazily from his spot on the rocks, his ever-present book in hand.

"Kakashi-sensei," Kimiko replied, her tone as serene as always, though her eyes gleamed with quiet pride as they lingered on her teammates. "They're improving quickly," she observed.

"They are," Kakashi agreed, closing his book with a soft thud. "You've been a good influence on them," he added, glancing at her meaningfully. "Let me guess, you left a shadow clone with Tazuna-san?"

Kimiko nodded. "I didn't want to neglect my duties," she said simply. Her gaze turned back to Kakashi. "Sensei, would it be possible for you to teach me…?" She hesitated, a faint blush dusting her pale cheeks. "The techniques you copied from Zabuza? I think they'd complement my Water Style."

Kakashi didn't offer his usual sigh of resignation or the playful, exasperated look he often reserved for her ambitious requests. Instead, his visible eye narrowed slightly, his expression unreadable.

"What about the reagents you were gathering?" he asked instead, his voice flat.

"I've finished collecting them," Kimiko answered with a small, proud smile. "That's why I thought now would be the perfect time to ask for extra training."

For a moment, Kakashi was silent. Then, his voice came, firm and unwavering. "I'm not going to teach you that jutsu."

Kimiko blinked, caught off guard by the abruptness of his refusal. "Why not, Sensei?" she asked, tilting her head, her tone edged with confusion. "Wouldn't every advantage matter right now? If Zabuza ambushes us, it'll likely be on the bridge, surrounded by water. That jutsu could be invaluable, and I—"

"You could learn it," Kakashi interrupted. "In fact, I'm sure you'd master it quickly." He sighed, his gaze softening slightly but no less resolute. "But that's not the issue."

Kimiko frowned. "Then what is?"

"When I first met you," Kakashi began, his tone measured, "you were a kunoichi who could think on her feet and lead effectively. You forced Naruto and Sasuke to work together. You're fast—faster than either of them—and your skillset made you ideal for infiltration and assassination. You used genjutsu to disorient your enemies, flickered close to them, and finished them off with your sword."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "Then you added Water Style to your arsenal. That made sense—it's in your chakra nature, and your control and reserves are exceptional. It gave you a way to handle enemies at a distance before closing in."

Kimiko nodded slowly, unsure where this was leading. Then Kakashi's tone shifted, growing sharper.

"But then you started experimenting with poisons," he said. "I know you've spent days researching, brewing, and testing them—days you could've spent refining the skills you already excel at. Instead of honing your strengths, you're spreading yourself thin, chasing every possibility."

"But it helped us against the Demon Brothers and Zabuza!" Kimiko countered, a hint of defensiveness creeping into her voice.

Kakashi's visible eye softened slightly as he considered her words. "You're absolutely right," he said, his tone calm but firm. "Your poison did help. It was a smart tactic, and it made a real difference against the Demon Brothers and Zabuza. I'm not saying that your efforts haven't been valuable, Kimiko."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing. "But think about what it cost you to get there. How many hours did you spend perfecting those poisons? How much energy did you put into learning an entirely new skillset, on top of everything else you're trying to master? Those are hours and energy you could've spent honing your kenjutsu or improving your ninjutsu."

Kakashi leaned back slightly, his gaze steady. "Poison can be a great tool in your arsenal. But if you spread yourself too thin, you'll end up with a lot of tools you're only decent at using, instead of becoming truly great at the skills you already excel at. Against an opponent like Zabuza, being great at one thing will save you more often than being average at ten."

Her eyes hardened, her jaw tightening. "This is coming from Copy Ninja Kakashi," she retorted, bitterness lacing her tone. "You've mastered a thousand jutsu. I don't have the luxury of being like Naruto or Sasuke. Naruto has his relentless determination, and Sasuke—he's an Uchiha. The heir to a legacy that will always put him ahead of me."

"Kimiko," Kakashi said firmly, cutting through her words. "Shinku-sama, Kurenai, even your mother—they're all proud of you. You don't need to compare yourself to others, nor should you diminish your family's legacy. Do you realize how many shinobi would envy your brilliance? Your innate talent? Naruto and Sasuke would give anything to have what you have—a complete and loving family."

Her hands curled into tight fists, her heart twisting painfully at his words. She looked away, struggling to meet his gaze. "All this," she murmured bitterly, "because I asked you to teach me one jutsu?"

"No," Kakashi replied, his tone softening slightly. "Because I don't want to see you lose yourself in chasing what you think you lack. Your strength comes from who you are—not from what you think you need to be."

Kimiko said nothing, her frustration warring with the faint but undeniable sting of his truth. She turned her gaze back toward Naruto and Sasuke, who were still pushing themselves in their training, their resolve unwavering. The sight only deepened the knot in her chest.

The waves lapped gently against the shore, their rhythm steady and unchanging. In contrast, Kimiko's thoughts churned like a storm, each word from Kakashi stirring the waters further.

"Take some time to think about what you want, Kimiko," Kakashi said, his voice quiet now but no less firm. "Not what you think you should be, but who you already are."

And with that, he returned his attention to the boys, leaving Kimiko to wrestle with the turmoil within her.

---

That displeasing conversation left Kimiko restless, her thoughts a storm she couldn't quiet despite her best efforts. Kakashi's words echoed in her mind, sharp and unyielding, like a blade that had found its mark. Frustration simmered beneath her calm exterior, pushing her toward the one place where she could reclaim control: training. If she couldn't master new techniques under his guidance, she would refine the ones she had until they were flawless.

Every morning, night, and every stolen moment in between, she practiced her kenjutsu kata. The steady rhythm of her tanto slicing through the air was both a balm and a challenge. Each arc, each strike was deliberate, her movements flowing like water, yet edged with unyielding precision. Despite her focus, she couldn't ignore the shouts of Naruto and Sasuke in the distance. Their relentless efforts to perfect water walking filled the air, a testament to their growing determination. While their progress pleased her, it also left her without sparring partners, forcing her to train alone.

With no one to match her strikes, she turned to the forest near Tazuna's home for inspiration. The dense canopy provided the perfect stage for agility training, the natural environment pushing her to refine her speed and reflexes. Kimiko began with tree sprinting, her feet pounding against rough bark as she darted up and down towering trunks. She leaped from one branch to another, her movements as fluid as her water nature demanded. Each landing tested her balance, her reactions sharpening as she adjusted midair to avoid jagged limbs or moss-slick surfaces. The forest blurred around her, a cascade of green and brown as she pushed herself faster, her breaths steady and measured.

Next came her dodging drill. Tossing a handful of kunai into the air, she watched as they scattered like glinting stars against the dappled sunlight. Her eyes tracked their descent, and she moved like a shadow through the metallic rain. She twisted and wove, the faint whistle of the kunai slicing through the air brushing past her ears. Occasionally, her hand snapped out to catch one, its weight grounding her before she redirected it with a flick of her wrist. The satisfying thunk of steel embedding into bark marked her success, and a faint smile tugged at her lips.

Her training wasn't just an escape—it was a reminder. For every word Kakashi spoke, for every doubt she had, her movements proved her resolve. If she was to face Haku or any other opponent again, she wouldn't just meet them as she was. Besides, Kakashi didn't know the things she did, the horrors that awaited them in the next what, three to five years? Orochimaru, Akatsuki, his old team mate Tobi working with Madara Uchiha, and even an actual alien goddess. She couldn't blame him, but she could still be bitter about it.

Eventually, her training came to an end, the rhythmic pounding of her heart and the steady hum of exertion leaving her both invigorated and tired. As she made her way back through the forest, the stillness of the surroundings felt almost serene—until she spotted a figure standing by the edge of a small clearing.

At first glance, the person was strikingly beautiful, with long, sleek black hair cascading past their shoulders and soft brown eyes framed by lashes so fine they could have belonged to a porcelain doll. Their delicate features and the elegance of their movement gave them an almost ethereal quality, further accentuated by their attire: a simple yet elegant pink kimono-like sleeveless garment and a green obi tied neatly at the waist. For a fleeting moment, Kimiko almost mistook them for a woman, their beauty so disarming in its simplicity.

But recognition struck her like a blade drawn too fast—sharp and certain. She knew who this was, thanks to her own memory about the anime, as well as the familiar chakra that emanated from them.

Haku.

She must have just met with Naruto.

She remembered this moment vividly from the anime—the poignant conversation Naruto shared with Haku, where Haku spoke of strength being a tool to protect the ones you love.

Kimiko's heart ached, knowing how this would end. Haku, so devoted, so selfless, would die without ever knowing how much he mattered to Zabuza. And Zabuza, for all his hardened cruelty, would mourn Haku in a way that stripped the veneer of the cold-blooded killer he was known as.

Did Haku have to die?

Kimiko knew she would kill to protect Naruto and Sasuke if it came down to it—Haku included. But if fate was already being rewritten by her very presence, did she have to let this play out as she remembered? Zabuza and Haku weren't simple villains; their lives were tangled with complicated motives, loyalty, and the scars of a cruel world.

Her voice broke the silence as she walked away, her tone calm but pointed. "Will you two be coming soon?"

Haku froze mid-step. The quiet stretched between them, heavy and expectant. Finally, his soft, lilting voice responded. "I'm afraid so."

Kimiko didn't turn. She didn't need to see his face to feel the resolve in his words. "You're only doing your duty as a shinobi," she said after a pause. "As detestable as your employers are."

There was a beat of stillness before Haku replied. "I'm glad you see it that way. Zabuza-san must finish this job. He holds no personal ill will toward you or your team...but he has his reasons. I will support him with my life."

Kimiko bit her lip. She had expected as much, but it still stung. "I see. Your loyalty is undeniable. But I plead with you—look deeper. Gato doesn't care about Zabuza's success or survival. He cares only about what he can gain. Gato will abandon him the moment he falters. Zabuza's strength should be used on his terms, not dictated by some cowardly merchant."

Haku's voice softened, but his words were careful. "I cannot speak for him."

Kimiko's eyes narrowed, though her tone remained measured. "Look around you," she said, gesturing subtly to the impoverished land around them. "See what Gato has done to these people. He siphons everything from them—wealth, hope, dignity. Do you think he'll treat you and Zabuza any differently? He's likely already plotted to betray you."

Haku hesitated. "That man is no match for Zabuza. He cannot hope to outwit him."

Kimiko pressed on, sensing a crack in Haku's armor. "Yes, if Zabuza were at his best. But he isn't. His injuries…as skilled as you both are, you're missing-nin. I'm willing to bet Gato hasn't spent even a single ryo to ensure Zabuza's recovery. Meanwhile, our sensei is in better condition, and he's prepared. He has his own tricks—ones you may not anticipate."

Haku's voice turned resolute, though it wavered just slightly. "If it comes to that, I would sacrifice my life for Zabuza. That is the bond we share."

Kimiko turned to face him at last, her eyes locking onto his warm brown ones. Her voice softened, though her words were no less firm. "I have no doubt that you would. But think—do you think that alone would be enough? We'll stop you—Naruto, Sasuke, me. You're strong, Haku, but we'd delay you just long enough for Kakashi-sensei to strike Zabuza again. And then, when we're all spent, when one of us lies dead, that's when Gato will strike. He won't care who wins or loses. He'll take advantage of the chaos and kill you both. No, kill all of us."

Haku's lips parted as if to speak, but no words came. The weight of her argument hung between them, sinking in like the stillness before a storm.

Kimiko stepped closer, her voice dropping to a near whisper. "Don't let Zabuza fall into that trap. You can't win if you let Gato dictate the terms."

For a long moment, Haku was silent. His gaze dropped to the ground, his expression unreadable. Then he gave her a small nod, almost imperceptible. "You care deeply for your comrades. I respect that." He looked up, his voice softer now. "I will think about what you've said."

And with that, he turned and walked away, leaving Kimiko to wonder if she had sown enough doubt to change the inevitable.

---

The night was supposed to be uneventful. Kimiko was the first to return home, her muscles sore from the day's training. Naruto arrived not long after, his clothes still damp with saltwater, his steps heavy but triumphant. The satisfied look on Kakashi's face as he trailed behind told Kimiko all she needed to know.

"Heh… Sasuke and I lasted an hour running on the ocean," Naruto boasted, leaning against Sasuke, who, surprisingly, didn't seem annoyed by his teammate's proximity.

"Good progress," Kakashi said with his usual calm. "Naruto, Sasuke, tomorrow, you'll join Kimiko in protecting Tazuna-san."

"Whew!" said Tazuna, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'm all sweaty, dirty, and worn out from the bridge work today, but… construction's almost finished!" His voice carried a mix of exhaustion and pride.

"That's great to hear!" Naruto exclaimed, his enthusiasm undampened by his weariness. Kimiko offered Tazuna a small smile of encouragement, but her attention drifted to Inari, who sat quietly, staring at the ground.

The boy's small fists were clenched tightly, and tears streaked silently down his cheeks. Kimiko's sharp eyes caught the tremble in his shoulders, and before she could say anything, Naruto's boisterous voice cut through the air.

"What's wrong?" Naruto asked, his tone shifting to something softer—more curious.

Inari snapped his head up, his face flushed with anger and grief. "Why do you wear yourself out trying?!" he shouted. His voice was high and strained, the words pouring out like a dam breaking. "No matter how hard you train, you'll never beat Gato's thugs! You act all tough and cool, but big, strong guys like that always crush weaker people like us! They'll destroy you!"

Kimiko stiffened. Unlikely, she thought grimly. A genin team, even in training, was more than a match for a gang of thugs. But she kept silent, watching the scene unfold. Naruto, however, was already bristling.

"SHUT UP!" he bellowed, his fists trembling. "I'm not like you, and I'm not going to lose!"

Inari's eyes narrowed, his voice rising in defiance. "JUST WATCHING YOU TICKS ME OFF! YOU GO RUNNING YOUR MOUTH WHEN YOU DON'T KNOW A THING—THIS ISN'T YOUR TOWN!" His words were venomous, but they were born of pain.

"And YOU don't know a thing about me!" he continued, his voice cracking. "You're always clowning around and having fun. You don't know anything about suffering or loneliness, or what my life is like!"

Kimiko turned her gaze to Inari, her expression neutral but her voice calm and measured. "Inari," she began softly, "do you know what Naruto's life is like?"

Her words hung in the air, gentle but piercing. Inari froze, his mouth half-open, but before he could reply, Naruto stepped forward, his face dark with anger.

"So, what?" Naruto's voice was cold, a stark contrast to his usual warmth. "You think it's noble to sit around starring in your own pity party and treating everyone like they're here to applaud you?" His words came like a slap, and even Kimiko felt their sting.

"It takes a really big man to sit around and cry… YOU BRAT!" Naruto snarled. "YOU BIG BABY!"

Inari flinched as if struck, and tears spilled over his cheeks. Without another word, he turned and bolted up the stairs, his small frame trembling as he disappeared. The room was heavy with silence, broken only by Naruto's frustrated breathing.

Kimiko reached out, her small hand squeezing Naruto's tightly, grounding him. He looked at her, startled, then at Kakashi, who nodded silently before rising to his feet.

"I'll talk to him," Kakashi said simply, his voice steady and quiet. He followed after Inari, leaving Kimiko alone with Naruto, Sasuke, and the family.

"Time for bed, you two," Kimiko said softly, glancing at Naruto and Sasuke. Neither boy argued. Sasuke shot a contemplative look at Naruto but chose not to say anything as they retreated to their shared room.

Once they were gone, Kimiko turned to Tazuna and Tsunami. She bowed her head low, her voice measured but apologetic. "My apologies. Naruto didn't mean any harm. But…" She hesitated, a faint smile crossing her lips. "It's true. On this team, I'm the only one fortunate enough to not understand Inari's pain."

Tazuna and Tsunami said nothing, their expressions somber. The faint creak of the stairs above them was the only sound in the room.

---

The day after, Kakashi woke them up early—significantly earlier than Kimiko had anticipated. As the first rays of sunlight barely brushed the horizon, he gathered them outside the house. The brisk morning air was damp and cool, a faint mist curling over the fields nearby. Kimiko adjusted the hem of her tunic, stifling a yawn, while Sasuke looked as composed as ever. Naruto, however, seemed sluggish, his head hanging low, his shoulders slumped.

"Alright, you three," Kakashi began, his voice calm but carrying an edge of seriousness. "It's been a week since our last encounter with Zabuza. We need to be on our guard. If he's recovered, it's highly likely he'll launch another attack soon. His employer, Gato, is probably pressuring him to finish the job, especially with how close the bridge is to completion."

Kimiko nodded, her eyes narrowing in focus. Sasuke mirrored her intensity, his fists clenched at his sides. But her gaze flicked to Naruto, whose head remained bowed. Was he still upset about last night's confrontation with Inari? She frowned, reaching out to lightly squeeze his hand in reassurance.

That's when she heard it—the unmistakable sound of soft snoring.

"Idiot," muttered Sasuke, his voice a mixture of irritation and disbelief. Kimiko clamped a hand over her mouth to stifle a laugh, her shoulders trembling slightly as the absurdity of the moment hit her.

Kakashi, on the other hand, merely sighed. "Naruto," he said flatly, reaching over to flick the boy on the forehead. Naruto jolted upright with a loud, exaggerated yelp, clutching his head.

"Wha—what?! I'm awake! I was just…uh…resting my eyes!" he exclaimed, rubbing his forehead indignantly.

Kimiko couldn't help herself this time and let out a soft giggle, earning a side-eye glare from Sasuke. Even Kakashi's visible eye crinkled slightly in amusement before he cleared his throat.

"Alright, now that Naruto's is awake," Kakashi continued, his tone dry, "let's get back on topic. Zabuza is dangerous, and this time, we'll need to be even more coordinated. Stay sharp, and don't let your guard down."

Naruto puffed out his chest, clearly trying to save face after his little nap. "Don't worry, Kakashi-sensei! I'm ready for anything!"

"Speaking of," said Kimiko, her voice calm but firm, "I think it would be wise to leave a clone or two here to guard Tazuna-san's family. I wouldn't put it past Gato—or even Zabuza—to resort to something as unsavory as attacking their family to intimidate him."

Naruto perked up, slapping his palms together in realization. "Great thinking, Kimiko-chan!" Without hesitation, he formed a hand seal, and two clones popped into existence with a loud poof. "There! Now they're sure to be safe!"

Sasuke crossed his arms, eyeing the clones critically. "Are we sure two Naruto clones are enough? What if they send another shinobi, or that masked one we saw before?"

Kimiko shook her head, her tone measured. "Unlikely. Zabuza isn't arrogant; he's professional. Knowing he's not at a hundred percent, he'd likely keep that masked ninja close to him at all times to maximize his chances of success."

Sasuke considered her reasoning and gave a small nod of agreement, though his eyes lingered on the clones with skepticism. Naruto, as usual, looked completely lost amidst the tactical discussion but puffed out his chest as though his clones had already won the battle.

Kakashi observed the exchange with a faint smile before speaking. "Good foresight, Kimiko. We can't afford to be careless, and it's better to overprepare than regret later."

Naruto grinned widely at the praise, clearly interpreting it as a compliment for his clones. "You can count on my clones, Sensei!"

Kakashi chuckled softly, his demeanor as relaxed as ever. "Alright, now let's wait for Tazuna-san to wake up, and we'll head out. Stay sharp, everyone."

It didn't take long for Tazuna to wake and prepare, and soon, the group set off toward the bridge. Their journey followed the usual path, but Kimiko noted how sharply aware Kakashi seemed, his lone eye scanning their surroundings with quiet precision. The formation was deliberate: Tazuna at the center, Sasuke leading in front, and Kimiko and Naruto flanking either side like protective sentinels.

"Hey, Kimiko-chan," Naruto began, breaking the morning's stillness as they walked. His voice was as bright as ever, despite the early hour. "Sorry I haven't been training with you lately. I've been trying to get better at water walking—you know, like how you do it!" He grinned broadly, and Kimiko couldn't help but smile at his earnestness.

"It's alright, Naruto," she replied smoothly, her tone calm but warm. "We'll have plenty of time to train together later. How's your progress been?"

"Oh, you know. Sasuke's still struggling to keep up with me." His boast drew a sharp scoff from Sasuke up ahead, but the Uchiha said nothing, his focus fixed forward. Naruto either didn't notice or ignored it. "But it's going great! Yesterday, I was doing that tree-jumping training you were working on, and I met this really cute girl. Almost as cute as you, Kimiko-chan!" He flashed her a cheeky grin, and she chuckled softly at his unrelenting energy.

"She started asking me all kinds of questions—like why I want to get stronger. Then she told me something really cool. She said that if you want to get stronger, you need to have people you want to protect."

Kimiko's steps faltered for the briefest moment, her composure betraying a flicker of unease. Her own encounter with Haku flashed vividly in her mind—those gentle brown eyes hiding the unyielding resolve of a true shinobi. Her heart tensed, the weight of unspoken truths pressing on her thoughts.

"That's good advice," she said finally, her voice steady but softer now. "Do you have people you want to protect?"

Naruto blinked, as though the question surprised him. "Of course I do! Iruka-sensei, Old Man Hokage, Sasuke, Kakashi-sensei, and you. Oh, and Ichiraku, too!" He counted them off on his fingers with earnest enthusiasm.

Kimiko tilted her head slightly, her eyes meeting his. "You want to protect me?"

Naruto's expression grew puzzled, as if the answer should have been obvious. "Of course I do! I don't think you need protection, though—you're strong enough on your own. But that doesn't mean I don't want to be there for you, you know?"

Her lips curved into a faint smile, touched by his sincerity. "You're a kind man, Naruto," she said softly. "You'll make a great Hokage somed-."

A suffocating mist enveloped the world, thick and unyielding, as though drawn from the abyss of ancient despair. Within its shadowed depths stirred an insatiable hunger—piercing crimson eyes glowed like fading coals, smoldering with a desperation as vast and boundless as the mist itself. They hunted with the promise of unerring finality, a predator's resolve bound to no mercy and no escape.

Amid the veiled expanse, an endless blizzard seethed, a phantom tempest devoid of beginning or end. Its chill pierced beyond the flesh, gnawing at the soul with a frigid intent born of profound desolation. The storm whispered softly, lulling its prey with promises of eternal stillness, of surrender to a cold oblivion. It sought to ensnare and bury its victims in an infinite haze, where the very essence of memory and existence would dissipate, leaving only silence and the unrelenting howl of an eternal, empty frost.

Kimiko's voice trailed off, her breath catching as she felt it—a shift in the air, dark and foreboding. Her sharp eyes darted to the bridge ahead, where unconscious bodies lay scattered like fallen leaves. Workers, motionless but alive, were strewn across the metal expanse.

"Sensei," she said, her voice low and controlled. Her tanto slid smoothly into her hand, its blade gleaming as she held it in a reverse grip. Her stance shifted instinctively, poised for battle. "They're here."

As her team closed ranks around Tazuna, the familiar rolling mist thickened, smothering the world in a shroud of damp obscurity. Every shape, every sound seemed to dissolve into the haze, leaving only the oppressive weight of the unknown. Kimiko could feel Naruto and Sasuke instinctively tightening their positions, their forms close and ready. Her own hand gripped her tanto, steady despite the faint tremor running through her arm. Around her, the tension was palpable, vibrating through their very cores.

From somewhere within the impenetrable fog came a voice, smooth and darkly amused. "I see you've brought those brats along again, Kakashi. And look at them—trembling, just like last time. Poor things, they must be terrified."

The words hung in the mist like a predator's taunt, but Kimiko's eyes flicked to her teammates, her senses heightened and alert. She could see it in their faces—in the gleam of Naruto's defiant grin, in the sharp focus of Sasuke's glare. The tremors weren't born of fear, not this time.

No, this time, they were trembling with anticipation.

A dozen identical silhouettes materialized from the mist, each bearing the unmistakable form of Zabuza. His water clones surged forward, their movements swift and precise, but the response from Team 7 was faster. In an instant, the first wave of clones shattered into puddles. Naruto's fist slammed into one with bone-crunching force, Sasuke's kunai sliced clean through another, and Kimiko's blade flashed like lightning, cleaving through the rest in a heartbeat. The sound of splashing water echoed briefly before fading into silence.

From the mist came a low, amused chuckle. "Well, well," said Zabuza, his form becoming clearer as the fog lightened slightly. He stood tall, his massive blade resting on his shoulder, and at his side was the masked figure of Haku. "It seems you brats have grown stronger. Much stronger than I expected." His eyes gleamed with dark satisfaction. "More than worthy rivals, wouldn't you agree, Haku?"

Haku inclined his head serenely, his voice calm but carrying an undertone of quiet respect. "Indeed. Their growth is remarkable."

"Looks like you were right, Kimiko," Kakashi said idly, his visible eye fixed on Haku. "The masked ninja is playing for Zabuza's team."

"She is very perceptive," Haku replied, his tone calm but edged with faint admiration.

"That was quite a show you put on before," Sasuke said, his gaze sharpening as it locked onto Haku. "But we're on to you now, and I don't have patience for bad actors." His frown deepened. "This one's mine."

"No way, Sasuke!" Naruto snarled, stepping forward, his fists clenched tightly. "You're not the only one who's gotten stronger!"

"Just don't slow me down," Sasuke retorted, a sly smirk tugging at his lips.

Haku's serene mask didn't falter, though there was a faint tilt of his head, as if assessing them both. "Impressive. You handled Zabuza-sama's clones well. Even if they carried only a fraction of his strength, it's a noteworthy feat." His gaze flickered between Sasuke and Naruto with quiet calculation.

"Haku." Zabuza's low growl cut through the mist, commanding and unyielding. "We're on the offensive. Go."

"Yes, Zabuza-sama," Haku replied, and in a blur, he vanished.

The masked ninja reappeared directly in front of Sasuke, his senbon flashing as they clashed against Sasuke's kunai. The force of the parry held him momentarily in place, but before he could capitalize on the opening, Naruto blurred to Haku's flank, his leg snapping forward in a powerful kick. Haku darted backward with fluid precision, creating distance between himself and the two boys.

"You're fast," Sasuke admitted, his stance low and steady, "but we've trained for fast fighters. Fighting Kimiko made sure of that."

Naruto grinned fiercely, his excitement radiating. "Yeah! You're not getting the drop on us this time!" The two began circling Haku, their movements synchronized, their intent clear.

Kimiko's eyes darted between the unfolding skirmish and the tension crackling between Kakashi and Zabuza. She stepped closer to Tazuna, positioning herself protectively. It was clear she wouldn't be part of Naruto and Sasuke's fight—not because she couldn't, but because her priority lay elsewhere.

"Stay with Tazuna-san, Kimiko," Kakashi said, his voice steady even as his focus never wavered from Zabuza.

Kimiko nodded, though her eyes didn't leave the battlefield. She watched intently as Haku's hands blurred into motion, summoning a storm of water senbon that hovered in midair. In an instant, the needles crashed down like torrential rain, but Naruto and Sasuke moved as one, their forms blurring out of the attack's path just before impact.

They reappeared on either side of Haku, their coordinated kicks aimed at his back in a devastating pincer attack. Haku twisted at the last possible moment, avoiding the full brunt of their assault, but the strain of keeping pace with their speed was evident…especially as he didn't seem to notice one of Naruto's shadow clone blurring behind him to strike him in the back of his head with a spinning clothesline, sending him flying towards Sasuke, who jumped and twisted in the air, hitting the side of Haku's head with a spinning kick, sending him sprawling on the ground.

"They're… exceeding Haku's speed?" Zabuza's gruff voice carried a tinge of disbelief as his sharp eyes tracked Naruto and Sasuke's relentless pursuit of his accomplice.

"You had it coming for underestimating my team, even after they helped me defeat you last time," Kakashi replied smoothly, his tone tinged with subtle amusement. His visible eye curved slightly, the hint of a smirk behind his mask. "Sasuke may not look like it, but he's the top-rated rookie in his class. Naruto, for all his bluster, is Konoha's Number One Most Unpredictable Ninja. And Kimiko…"

Kakashi's voice softened, a note of genuine pride threading through his words as his gaze shifted toward the kunoichi standing guard near Tazuna. "Kimiko is the glue that holds this team together. She's a strategist who sees through her opponents' moves before they make them, and if Sasuke and Naruto's speed surprises you…" Kakashi smirked, "She's likely going to be the fastest kunoi- no, the fastest shinobi of her generation."

The silence was broken by Zabuza's low chuckle, a sound that reverberated across the mist-shrouded bridge. "Haku," he said, his voice gruff yet laced with something akin to disappointment, "if this keeps up, you'll die at the hands of the people you wanted to spare."

Haku's posture stiffened, his reflection flickering in the frost-laden air, but his shoulders fell as though carrying the weight of inevitability. "...Yes, I do," he murmured, resignation heavy in his tone. "What a pity."

With deliberate movements, Haku raised two fingers, weaving a single-handed seal. His voice rang out, calm yet commanding.

"Ice Style: Demonic Mirroring Ice Crystals."

In an instant, shimmering ice mirrors erupted around Sasuke and Naruto, forming a glacial dome of reflective surfaces. The mirrors refracted light unnaturally, their surfaces rippling with Haku's presence as he stepped seamlessly into one of them. His face, serene and determined, flickered between the mirrors as though taunting his prey.

Kimiko's sharp eyes caught a fleeting glance from Haku—a brief shake of his head, subtle yet deliberate. Was it a warning? A plea? She couldn't tell.

Kakashi's visible eye narrowed, his voice taut. "...That's—"

"A Kekkei Genkai," Zabuza interrupted, his tone laced with grim satisfaction. "Now... let my boy kill your boys."

Kakashi moved, a blur of speed toward the ice dome, but Zabuza anticipated it. The rogue shinobi surged forward, cleaver swinging in a wide arc to cut Kakashi off. The threat of being bisected forcing Kakashi to retreat a step.

"Don't forget," Zabuza growled, his grin sharp and predatory, "I'm your opponent."

A scream pierced the air—a sound of pain. Kimiko's breath hitched as she caught sight of a storm of senbon raining down on Naruto and Sasuke from within the ice prison.

"Sasuke! Naruto!" Kakashi called, his voice tight with urgency. He feinted, trying to slip past Zabuza again, but the towering shinobi stepped into his path with ruthless precision.

"Any sudden moves," Zabuza warned, his gaze locking onto Kimiko and Tazuna, "and I'll—"

Kimiko didn't let him finish. Her poisoned kunai flew with unerring precision, cutting through the mist. Zabuza's hand flashed, catching the weapon by its handle midair. With a flick of his wrist, he sent it sailing harmlessly into the sea.

The opening was brief but enough for Kakashi to press forward. His kunai clashed with Zabuza's cleaver, the two locked in a deadly dance. The sound of steel meeting steel echoed, punctuated by Kakashi's sudden leap backward as Zabuza retaliated with a spin of his massive blade, at the same time, Zabuza grabbed onto his pouch and threw a hail of shuriken at Kimiko in retaliation for her poisoned Kunai

But before they could find their mark, a volley of senbon intercepted them in midair from the dome of ice mirrors. Kimiko's sharp eyes turned toward Haku's reflection, whose hand still lingered from the throw.

"Haku, what are you doing?" Zabuza grumbled

Haku's voice was calm, almost apologetic. "Zabuza-sama, please spare the girl. I will handle her when I am done with these two."

Zabuza's eyes narrowed but relented with a scoff. "..How very naive of you. Fine. But if she gets in my way—"

He didn't finish. Three Kimikos surged toward him in perfect unison, their tantos gleaming. Two aimed for his neck, the third for his throat. Zabuza pivoted sharply, his cleaver carving through the air to decapitate two clones in a single sweep. The real Kimiko twisted midair, her tanto parrying his blade with a shower of sparks as she slid around his defense.

"Hoh," Zabuza mused, his grin widening. "Kakashi wasn't lying—you are fast—"

"Ninja Art: Blossoming Escape!"

Kimiko's body erupted into a swirling storm of crimson petals, spinning violently around Zabuza and obscuring his vision in a flurry of red, creating a momentary opening. Kakashi didn't hesitate, hurling a volley of shuriken through the petal storm.

Zabuza snarled, swinging his cleaver in a wide arc to deflect the projectiles, but Kimiko reappeared behind him. Her twin kunai, coated with paralytic poison, found their mark on his shoulders as it flew from her hand.

For a brief moment, Zabuza faltered, his body stiffening as the poison began to take effect. Kimiko's breath hitched in relief—had she finally managed to—

Zabuza yanked the kunai free, blood dripping from the wounds as he turned to face her, looking over his shoulders at her, his lips curled into a dark grin, his voice low and mocking.

"Did you really think the same cheap trick would work twice?"

Zabuza's muscles tensed, his legs coiling to spring toward Kimiko, but his eyes suddenly flickered with realization. Instead of lunging at her, he shifted direction in an instant, dashing toward Kakashi, who was reaching for the headband over his Sharingan eye. The cleaver arced high above Zabuza's head, poised to strike Kakashi with devastating force.

Kimiko reacted instinctively. Pouring chakra through her legs, she flickered in front of Zabuza, her tanto raised in a reverse grip to intercept his cleaver. Steel met steel with a resounding clang, and the sheer weight of Zabuza's blade pressed her to her limits. Her arms trembled, shoulders straining against the force as her knees nearly buckled.

"Sensei..." she whispered, the words barely escaping her lips—a silent plea for assistance.

Zabuza's eyes bore into hers, a wolfish grin spreading across his face. "The Sharingan, again?" he said mockingly, shifting his gaze over her petite frame to Kakashi. "How lacking in finesse. A ninja's weapon should be employed judiciously, not flaunted every time with impunity."

Kakashi's voice was calm but carried an edge of finality. "Count yourself fortunate," he said, his Sharingan now gleaming beneath his headband. "You'll be the first to see it twice. I'll make sure no one sees it a third time."

Zabuza scoffed, his expression unrelenting. "Even if you defeat me, you'll never beat Haku. In some ways, that boy has already surpassed me. He's faced more hardship than any of your brats could imagine, and through it, he's become a perfect shinobi. A killing machine." His voice turned razor-sharp as he added, "Your pathetic little team doesn't even measure up to half of him—"

Kimiko's grip on her tanto tightened as her fingers flicked in subtle movements beneath the cleaver's shadow. From behind her, Kakashi's voice rang out, sharp and commanding.

"KIMIKO, NOW!" Kakashi barked.

She exhaled sharply, releasing her chakra. "Water Style: Spiraling Rapids!"

The river below the bridge churned violently, responding to her command as a spiraling pillar of water shot skyward. The column roared toward Zabuza, threatening to engulf him in its force, but Zabuza's fingers flashed through signs just as swiftly.

"Water Style: Water Dragon Bullet!"

The river itself seemed to rise in rebellion as a massive dragon formed from white-capped waves. It collided with Kimiko's spiraling torrent, and the resulting explosion of water shook the bridge. A torrential downpour rained upon them, the force of the splash driving Kimiko to shield her face with her forearm as the bridge became slick with river water.

Zabuza let out a low chuckle. "Your little kunoichi is starting to get under my skin," he muttered, his tone laced with irritation. "No matter. Haku will deal with her after those two are finished."

Kimiko's breath hitched as another scream of pain pierced the air from within the ice dome. Through the faint gaps in the mirrors, she glimpsed Naruto and Sasuke, their bodies riddled with senbon yet still standing, defiance etched onto their faces. Her stomach twisted. Were they stronger than in the original timeline, or had Haku been forced to take them more seriously? Had she inadvertently pushed them toward this brink where Haku would have no choice but to kill them?

Zabuza's voice snapped her focus back to the fight. "Now... to borrow a phrase from you, Kakashi," he said, his tone dripping with venom, "the same trick won't work on me twice."

He raised his fingers, weaving the seals she dreaded. Another suffocating mist descended, denser and colder than before, enveloping the battlefield in an impenetrable shroud. Kimiko immediately retreated, her body sliding back to regroup near Tazuna, her senses sharpening as she struggled to pinpoint Zabuza's location.

"Bah, how does your sensei fight in this soup?!" Tazuna barked, his voice edged with panic. "You can't see a damn thing!"

Kimiko didn't answer, her focus entirely on the screams emanating from beyond the ice mirrors. Each cry drove a spike of doubt into her resolve. If Naruto and Sasuke fell here... what would happen? Haku had held back in the original timeline, hadn't he? But this time, with their newfound strength, he might be forced to take their lives. Her heart thudded painfully at the thought of them succumbing to this cruel fate.

She forced herself to banish the thought. No. Kakashi needed her. Tazuna needed her. Her voice, though quiet, was firm as she spoke. "It's going to be fine," she said, more for herself than for Tazuna. Her grip tightened on her tanto as she focused, shutting out the screams and the ominous murmur of Zabuza and Kakashi's deadly exchange.

Kimiko closed her eyes, her breathing steady as she sought clarity amid the chaos. The suffocating mist wrapped around her like a shroud, but it didn't matter. She had another way to see. Slowly, deliberately, she pressed her palms against the cold, wet surface of the bridge, kneading her chakra to sharpen her senses. Zabuza was a master of concealment, but she was a sensor, albeit inexperienced. If she had located the Demon Brothers in ambush, she could do the same here. She had to.

The sensations came gradually, each one vivid and distinct as she honed in on the battlefield.

A sharp, sunny presence radiated defiance and unyielding resolve. Naruto. His chakra blazed like a beacon in the haze, unwavering even in the face of overwhelming odds. Beside it, a sharper, focused aura cut through the mist—a metallic edge that felt like a a blur of fire and lightning honing in on its prey. Sasuke. He was a relentless hunter, moving with calculated precision and a drive to surpass every obstacle.

Yet against them, an overwhelming chill loomed. It wasn't just cold—it was biting, frigid, an endless blizzard encapsulating everything in its icy grip. Haku. His presence was serene, unwavering, yet it carried the weight of a storm seeking to bury everything in its path. The clash of these three auras sent ripples of tension through her senses, and she felt Sasuke's presence flicker, starting to freeze in the midst of the mist.

And then, nearer still, she felt it. A shadow—hungry, predatory, and poised to strike. Zabuza. His chakra coiled like a purple wraith with pitiless red eyes. Unlike the cold of Haku or the radiance of Naruto and Sasuke, Zabuza's presence was suffocating, oppressive, as if daring the world to challenge him.

Kimiko's breath hitched as her senses caught up with her surroundings. A bolt of electric-blue lightning streaked through the haze—Kakashi's, his trail followed by a pack of hunting, snarling beasts. They darted toward the lurking predator, Zabuza, who shifted course, weaving through the mist with lethal precision.

Her instincts screamed for her to call out to Kakashi. But no. This was an opportunity—one she couldn't afford to waste. Her hands moved with practiced speed as she pulled an explosive tag from her pouch, pressing it against the bridge's surface. Without hesitation, she grabbed Tazuna's arm.

"We're moving," she whispered, flickering away just as Zabuza's massive cleaver swung down, the blade carving through the air where they had been standing.

The instant her feet hit solid ground again, Kimiko formed the necessary hand seal. The tag detonated with a deafening roar, the explosion shaking the bridge and sending fire and smoke billowing into the mist. Kimiko's heart raced as she turned, the haze beginning to clear. Her senses zeroed in on the battlefield, and she felt a rush of relief as Zabuza's roar echoed through the air.

Kimiko's heart raced as she turned, the haze beginning to clear. Her senses zeroed in on the battlefield, and she felt a rush of relief as Zabuza's roar echoed through the air.

When the mist lifted further, the scene came into view. Zabuza was pinned, his movements halted by Kakashi's tracking ninken. Their fangs dug deep into his arms and legs, blood trickling onto the wet bridge below.

Kakashi stood nearby, his Sharingan glowing ominously. His voice was calm, but the edge of finality cut through the air. "This is where it ends, Zabuza."

"...Your kunoichi's annoying," Zabuza growled, spitting to the side, his voice low and rough as blood trickled from the corner of his mouth.

"Good job, Kimiko," Kakashi said, his tone calm but carrying a faint edge of approval. "That explosion stunned him long enough for my ninken to find their mark." Then, his visible eye fixed on Zabuza, sharp and unyielding. "Zabuza, you had your fun. We know all about the failed coup you and your followers staged—your attempt to assassinate the Mizukage."

Kimiko flinched as the words fell from Kakashi's mouth. Her mind churned. The Mizukage Zabuza tried to assassinate wasn't just any ruler—it was Yagura Karatachi, the man who earned the Bloody Mist its grim reputation. The one whose reign turned shinobi into tools of unyielding brutality, who fostered a culture of cruelty in the name of strength. Zabuza had been in the right, hadn't he? But how could she reconcile that with the man standing before her, willing to kill Tazuna and countless innocents for the sake of survival?

Kakashi began weaving a series of intricate hand seals, each movement deliberate and precise. As he finished, he grasped his wrist with his other hand, chakra sparking to life around his fingertips. The crackling hum of electricity filled the air, coalescing into a blade of lightning that danced along his hand.

Chidori.

"The man you're trying to kill, Tazuna-san," Kakashi said, his voice like steel, "is the heart and soul of this place. And the bridge he's trying to complete is this land's only hope. You're willing to sacrifice not just this place, but everyone in it, just to advance your ambitions. That's not what a shinobi does."

Kimiko's heart raced as Kakashi's words echoed through the mist. His fingers crackled with electric-blue energy, the light casting sharp shadows against his face. The scene was veering off script—this wasn't supposed to happen. Her mind spun, searching for a way to intervene, to stall, to ensure that Zabuza, and more importantly, Haku, had a chance to live.

"Spare me the civics lesson, Kakashi," Zabuza spat, his teeth bared in defiance, though the strain in his body was clear. "I fight for my own ideals."

Before Kakashi could respond, the air shifted. Kimiko's senses flared as she felt it—a wave of chakra unlike anything else, a bone-chilling, crystalline sensation that pierced through the fog like shards of ice. Her eyes darted toward the dome of mirrors that held Sasuke and Naruto captive.

The mist thickened, and for a moment, all sound seemed to vanish, save for the crackling of Kakashi's Chidori and the faint whistling of the wind. Then, as though the world itself exhaled, a scream of pain and anguish echoed from within the dome.

"Sasuke! Naruto!" Kimiko's voice cracked, her grip tightening on her tanto. Her feet shifted instinctively, but Zabuza's chuckle froze her in place.

"Don't even think about it, girl," Zabuza growled. His eyes gleamed with malice, but his voice carried a strange undertone—something between pride and resignation. "Haku's unleashed the full power of his Ice Style now. Your friends… won't last long."

Kimiko's heart wrenched, but she forced herself to remain calm. Her gaze flickered to Kakashi, whose eye narrowed as he prepared to strike. Kimiko knew this was her moment. If she didn't act now, the story would end here—with death on all sides.

But before she could act, the world plunged into darkness.

The eternal blizzard raged, a maelstrom of unrelenting frost and despair. Within the heart of the storm, the last flickers of lightning and fire waged a desperate struggle. The once-bright sunshine that held them together dimmed, its warmth fading as the oppressive cold encroached, seeking to extinguish all light and life.

Then, the sun cracked.

From its fracture spilled a crimson mist—thick, heavy, and suffocating. The smog coiled and writhed like a living thing, its presence anathema to the icy void. Wherever it touched, the frost hissed and dissolved into nothingness. The red haze grew denser, filling the air with an oppressive heat that seared the spirit as much as the flesh.

The crimson smoke began to churn and condense, writhing into a grotesque shape. Slowly, it formed into an aberration—a monstrous vulpine demon, its malevolent essence radiating an oppressive, ancient power. Its burning eyes pierced through the blizzard, gleaming with unrestrained rage and hatred. Massive claws stretched outward, rending the frigid storm apart with anguished bloodlust. The blizzard faltered under the assault, its chilling tendrils retreating as the fiery demon carved a path of destruction through the cold.

The oppressive red filled the void, standing as a grotesque bulwark—terrible and unyielding—against the eternal frost. The storm's silence shattered under the roar of the demon, a sound that shook the very fabric of the world, primal and full of wrath.

Kimiko let out a pitiful whimper as her senses wrenched her back into the real world. Her breath hitched, and she stumbled, her knees threatening to buckle under the sheer weight of the sensation that lingered in her mind. Only Tazuna's steadying hands kept her from collapsing outright. That repugnant chakra—raw, violent, and corrosive—clung to her like an unshakable shadow. It overwhelmed her, an oppressive force of pure destruction that felt as though it sought to consume everything in its wake. The air itself seemed to twist under its presence, suffocating and vile.

"What... terrible chakra is that?" Zabuza's voice cut through the fog, sharp but shaken. Even he, a hardened shinobi who had bathed in blood and thrived in violence, sounded unnerved. His predatory gaze turned toward the dome of icy mirrors, now radiating an ominous aura that chilled more than the frost surrounding it.

Kimiko's trembling eyes darted to Kakashi, who for once seemed visibly perturbed. His usually calm and calculated demeanor faltered as his Sharingan flickered toward the dome. His brow furrowed deeply, and he muttered to himself, as much for reassurance as for an explanation.

"…No, the seal isn't broken. Not yet. This is only a fraction—just a trace—that managed to leak through." His voice was steady, but the worry beneath it was impossible to miss. "We're safe... for now."

Kimiko's heart sank as the realization settled in her chest like a lead weight. She knew exactly what it was. This wasn't ordinary chakra. This was the Kyūbi's chakra. Kurama's power—the Nine-Tailed Beast.

Her mind reeled, and for the first time, a crack of understanding formed in her resentment toward the villagers who had scorned Naruto back when she was just a watcher, and not a participant in the world. She always hated them for their ignorance, for judging him without knowing him. But now? To feel this malevolence coursing from him, a presence so dark and overwhelming that it felt like a violation of her very being? For the first time, she understood why they were so afraid.

And yet… the thought twisted painfully in her chest. Because she knew Naruto. She knew his earnestness, his boundless kindness, his drive to protect those around him. And the thought of that boy being defined by this monstrous force, this corruptive power he never asked for? It filled her with a quiet, simmering rage—not at him, but at the cruelty of his burden.

The dome of ice shattered into countless shards, glinting like fragments of a broken dream as they scattered across the steel and concrete of the bridge. Haku's body was hurled out, skidding to a halt on the cold surface, his breathing ragged. Moments later, Naruto emerged from the mist, but he no longer resembled the boy Kimiko knew—the boy she saw as a little brother, full of earnest energy and boundless optimism. No, this was something else entirely.

Naruto's nails had elongated into claws, and his eyes... they were not the warm, determined blue she was so familiar with, nor the crimson of Kakashi's Sharingan or even her own scarlet gaze. These eyes glowed with a sinister red, primal and furious, brimming with unrelenting hatred.

With a blur of speed, Naruto lunged at Haku, slamming a fist into his stomach. The impact forced the air from Haku's lungs, and blood spattered from his lips as he staggered back, clutching his abdomen. Before he could recover, Naruto was upon him again, his fist arcing toward Haku's face with devastating intent.

But he stopped.

Naruto froze, his fist trembling inches from Haku's face. His red eyes flickered, and for a fleeting moment, Kimiko thought she saw a glimpse of the boy beneath the rage. Haku coughed weakly, his lips curling into a sad smile as he gazed at Naruto.

"...The day we met in the forest," Haku rasped, "I thought we were two of a kind. Surely, you can understand..." His voice was soft, almost wistful, and he hung his head. "You'll have to bloody your hands. Forgive me for that."

Naruto's fists clenched at his sides, shaking with unspent rage. "Is… Is that the only way? No other outcome?"

"Yes," Haku replied, his tone laced with sorrow. "There is no other path."

Naruto's knuckles whitened as his grip tightened around a discarded kunai lying on the bridge. His eyes darted to Sasuke's body lying motionless on the cold steel, senbon protruding from his skin like grotesque pins in a lifeless doll.

"Sasuke…" Naruto's voice cracked with barely contained fury. "He had a dream too." His gaze lingered on Sasuke's still form before snapping back to Haku, his expression twisting into one of seething rage.

"If we'd met some other way, in some other place," Naruto said, his voice heavy with pain, "you and me… we'd probably be friends."

Haku closed his eyes, a tear slipping down his cheek. "Thank you," he said softly. "You're going to be very strong."

Naruto bent his knees, his intent clear. He was going to kill Haku for what he had done to Sasuke. His claws dug into the hilt of the kunai, and his chakra flared dangerously.

No. This isn't how it's supposed to go. I can make it better...

Before Naruto could strike, Haku's eyes widened as his gaze shifted past him. In the distance, Kakashi stood poised to deliver a killing blow to Zabuza, his hand alight with crackling, lethal electricity.

"No…" Haku breathed, horror flashing across his face. His body moved before he could think, intercepting Naruto's charge and gripping his wrist tightly. Naruto struggled, his strength bolstered by the Kyūbi's influence, but Haku held firm.

"I'm sorry, Naruto," Haku whispered, sadness dripping from every word. His free hand weaved a one-handed seal with remarkable precision, and frost began to bloom around him, swirling in the air like ghostly snow. The temperature dropped sharply, and Kimiko's breath hitched as the icy mist began to coalesce.

Kimiko's heart raced. She recognized what was about to happen. Haku was going to sacrifice himself to protect Zabuza. He would jump into the path of Kakashi's Chidori, offering his life without hesitation. It was happening, just like in the timeline she knew, but her hands trembled with indecision.

This time, she could stop it.

But how?

Kimiko didn't think; she acted. In a blur, she body flickered to where she knew Haku would appear—right in the path of Kakashi's Chidori. As Haku materialized, she lunged, wrapping her thin arms around him in a desperate bid to stop his sacrifice. The force of her tackle spun them, and she managed to twist their positions so her back faced the incoming Chidori. But Haku was faster, countering with a sharp pivot that reversed their roles, placing him as the first person the chdiroi would pierce before Kimiko, no doubt thinking to cushion the blow before it struck Kimiko and Zabuza.

Over his shoulder, Kimiko saw Kakashi hurtling toward them, unable to change his trajectory, the lightning in his hand crackling with lethal intent. Time seemed to slow, and her heart raced as the realization dawned.

Was she going to die here? Would her life end, wrapped around an enemy she didn't hate, caught in a moment of tragic resolve?

No. Not yet. She had one last card to play.

"Water Style: Starch Syrup Capturing Field!" Kimiko shouted, her voice raw with desperation.

Channeling her chakra, she opened her mouth and expelled a massive wave of viscous, sticky fluid. The syrupy liquid coated the bridge in a wide, glistening expanse, directly in Kakashi's path. The adhesive field slowed him just enough, his Chidori fading as his momentum stalled against the tacky surface. The deadly charge lost its power, and Kakashi came to a stop, his hand sinking into the syrupy lake with a wet thud.

Haku shoved her away with a surprising gentleness, leaping to Zabuza's side. The swordsman, having just freed himself from Kakashi's ninken, stood tall, his massive blade raised as he leveled a deadly glare at Kimiko before swinging his blade. Kimiko effortlessly jumped back, noting how deliberately slow the swing seemed to be, as if it hesitant.

"You little brat," Zabuza growled, the edge of his cleaver glinting ominously as he stepped forward.

Kimiko planted her feet, standing firm besides Kakashi facing the pair of missing-nin. Her tanto was drawn, her hand trembling only slightly as she met Zabuza's fierce gaze.

"Kimiko!" Kakashi barked, his voice tinged with both anger and concern. "Why did you do that? Why would you put yourself in danger like that?"

Kimiko's mind raced. She needed an explanation, something plausible enough to justify her reckless move.

"I sense chakra signatures," she lied smoothly, her voice calm despite the storm raging within her. "A lot of them. Faint, but definitely coming from the other side of the bridge."

Zabuza's eyes narrowed, his predatory instincts kicking in. "Chakra signatures?" he echoed, his grip tightening on his cleaver.

"Yes," Kimiko continued, pressing her advantage. "If we keep fighting here, we'll all be sitting ducks."

Kakashi didn't seem fully convinced. "But that still doesn't explain why you jumped in the path of—"

"Heh. I wonder how the fight is going."

The mocking voice interrupted them, drawing all eyes to the far side of the bridge. Emerging from the mist was a motley group of thugs and cutthroats, their weapons glinting in the dim light. At their head stood a small, smirking man in a tailored suit, a cane in one hand and shades perched arrogantly on his nose.

It was Gato.

"Well, well," Gato sneered, his voice dripping with condescension. "Looks like you've all worn yourselves out. Perfect timing."

The tension on the bridge shifted instantly. Zabuza turned to face Gato, his expression darkening. Kimiko exhaled quietly, her gamble having bought precious time for the moment of reprieve they desperately needed.

"...Gato," Zabuza growled, his voice low and menacing despite his weakened state. "What are you doing here? And why did you bring all of them?"

The small, smug man stepped forward, a twisted grin spreading across his face. "Hehehe. There's been a slight change of plans," Gato said, tapping his cane against the steel bridge. "You're going to die here, Demon of the Mist. Here and now."

"What?!" Haku snapped, his usually serene tone breaking, a rare glimpse of emotion piercing through.

"You must have guessed," Gato continued with mock exasperation "I never intended to pay you. It's so bothersome trying to hire a skilled shinobi affiliated with one of the Hidden Villages, aside from being expensive, they have friends who object when I betray and kill them."

Kimiko's crimson eyes narrowed. Was Gato openly admitting this in front of his own men? Did they not realize their employer's disdain extended to them as well? Her gaze swept over the mob of armed thugs behind Gato, who looked emboldened but not particularly bright.

"You ninja are all the same," Gato sneered. "You fight each other, weaken yourselves, and once you're worn down, it's easy for my men to finish you off. A perfect business strategy—efficient, cost-effective. A real win-win." His grin turned cruel as he shifted his gaze back to Zabuza. "Though, in hindsight, hiring you was my only mistake. 'Demon of the Mist'? Hah! More like a 'Baby Demon,' if that!"

One of the brigands laughed, brandishing a rusty sword. "We'll take you down easy in your condition!"

Naruto, now standing in front of the group with Sasuke and Kimiko flanking him, scoffed. "Who the heck are these clowns?!"

The mist seemed to swirl heavier as silence descended. Zabuza sighed, his broad shoulders sagging. "...Forgive me, Kakashi," he said at last, his voice quieter, almost resigned. "I see no reason to assassinate Tazuna anymore. That settles our differences."

Kakashi, still tense, nodded once. "...Agreed."

Zabuza turned to Haku, his dark eyes meeting his loyal companion's gaze. "Haku," he began, his tone softening for the first time. "You threw yourself in front of a lethal attack for me."

"Yes," Haku answered simply, his voice steady and unhesitant.

The two shared a look, deep and unspoken. No further words were needed between them; the bond they shared transcended any need for explanation. The air between them was thick with understanding and gratitude.

But the moment was fleeting, as Gato's mocking laughter echoed once more across the bridge.

"This reminds me…" Gato sneered, tapping his cane against the bridge as his mocking gaze landed on Haku. "I still have a score to settle with you. You crushed all the bones in my arm, you little freak. I think it's about time I pay you back for that."

"Like hell you will!" Naruto snarled, stepping forward, his body taut with fury as he placed himself firmly between Gato and the group.

"Calm down, Naruto. There's a lot of them," Kakashi said, his voice steady, but Naruto's clenched fists showed no sign of relaxing.

But then Naruto's fiery gaze snapped to Zabuza. "Hey, you!" he barked, pointing an accusing finger at the swordsman. "Are you just going to let them talk about your comrade like that?"

"Haku isn't my comrade," Zabuza said coldly, his tone devoid of emotion. "He's my tool."

Naruto's eyes widened, his mouth opening slightly in shock. Then the anger returned, fiercer and hotter than before. "...I hate you," Naruto said, his voice trembling as he glared at Zabuza. "Haku was willing to sacrifice himself for you. He threw his life away to protect you, and you still call him a tool? My own comrade nearly killed herself trying to save both of you, and you're telling me you don't even care about him?"

"Naruto, stop it," Kakashi warned, his voice firm but calm. "Our quarrel is over—"

"SHUT UP!" Naruto roared, silencing even Kakashi. His finger jabbed at Zabuza again. "HE'S STILL MY ENEMY!"

The raw emotion in Naruto's voice echoed across the bridge as tears began to stream down his cheeks. He took a step forward, his body trembling, not with fear but with something deeper—something unrelenting. "Haku cares about you," he growled, his voice cracking. "He's devoted to you. And you still refuse to see it? Are you really that heartless?" Naruto's voice broke into a near plea. "Is this… what happens when you get stronger? You stop caring about the people who give up everything for you?"

Naruto's head hung low, his fists clenched tightly at his sides. "Haku… was willing to give up his dreams for you," he whispered hoarsely. His entire frame shook with barely contained emotion. "That's… too much," he said, voice rising again. "Too much for someone to do… just to be treated as a tool."

The weight of Naruto's words hung in the air, heavy and unyielding. Even the thugs behind Gato fell silent, their bravado dampened by the intensity of the moment. Haku stood still, his mask concealing his expression, but his shoulders trembled slightly, betraying the storm within.

Zabuza said nothing at first, his sharp eyes fixed on Naruto as though trying to dissect him, to understand this boy who wore his heart so plainly for all to see. The mist around him seemed to grow colder, but there was something beneath it—a flicker of something unspoken, restrained.

Kimiko, who had watched the entire exchange in silence, found her grip tightening on her tanto. Naruto's words resonated deeply with her, but she also understood the precariousness of the situation. She turned her gaze to Zabuza, searching for any crack in his hardened facade, any hint that Naruto's words had reached him.

And for just a moment, she thought she saw it.

"Kid…" Zabuza muttered, his voice low and strained. Tears streamed down his scarred face, though his expression remained fierce, unwavering. Haku stood silently beside him, his own eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

"Zabuza-san…" Haku's voice was barely a whisper, his hands trembling.

"Not a word from either of you," Zabuza growled, his voice cracking slightly despite his effort to suppress it. He turned his gaze back to Naruto, his expression softening for the briefest of moments. "I guess… you're right."

Haku's eyes widened, his usual serene composure breaking as he stared at Zabuza. But before he could speak, Zabuza continued, his voice gaining strength. "Say what we will, do what we will… Shinobi are just people after all, with feelings all too human." His gaze shifted to Haku, his expression hardening with resolve. "And I haven't lost everything yet. So, I'll fight. I'll show them my ninja way!"

With a roar that seemed to shake the very air, Zabuza gripped his cleaver tighter, his body leaning forward as though ready to pounce. "Kid, give Haku your kunai!" He ordered Naruto

"And I will be by your side, as always," Haku said softly but firmly, stepping into place behind Zabuza, one hand using senbon as claws, the other holding the bloodied kunai Naruto picked up and handed to him, one that dripped with the familiar poison.

It's one of mine.

Together, they charged into the mob of thugs like a force of nature, cutting through the mercenaries with precision and fury. Each swing of Zabuza's cleaver and each graceful strike of Haku's senbon left the mob reeling, their ranks thinning rapidly under the onslaught.

Kimiko watched, momentarily frozen by the sight of the two rogue ninjas fighting with such ferocity. But then, movement from the corner of her eye drew her attention. Her heart skipped a beat.

Sasuke. He was stirring.

"Shit, I almost forgot," she muttered, her body moving before her thoughts could fully catch up. In an instant, she flickered to his side, kneeling down beside him as his eyes fluttered open, his face pale and pained. Senbon still protruded from his body, but he was alive.

"Mmm… Kimiko?" Sasuke's voice was faint but steady, his dark eyes meeting hers. He winced as he tried to move, and Kimiko instinctively reached for his hand, squeezing it gently.

"I'm here," she said softly, her voice betraying the relief she felt. "Don't try to move—you're still hurt."

Sasuke groaned, his gaze shifting around him as though trying to take in the scene. "How's Naruto? And… that little creep in the mask? What happened to him?"

Kimiko couldn't help the faint smile that tugged at her lips. Even in his weakened state, his first thought was about Naruto. Typical.

"Naruto and Haku are fine," she reassured him. "Haku and Zabuza are fighting Gato's men now. But you…" Her voice softened. "You need to stay still. Let your body recover."

Sasuke winced again as he tried to move his arm, pain flashing across his face. Kimiko's chest tightened with frustration. If only she knew medical ninjutsu—if only she could do more than just sit here and watch him suffer.

"...Haku never planned to kill me, did he?" Sasuke asked suddenly, his voice quiet, but there was an edge of certainty in it.

Kimiko nodded, her eyes meeting his. "No. He didn't."

Before Sasuke could say more, Kimiko turned her head toward the battle. "Naruto!" she called out, her voice carrying across the chaos. "Sasuke's alright!"

From the distance, she saw Naruto pause turning toward her. Relief swept across his face, and he raised a trembling arm in acknowledgment. Kimiko glanced back down to see Sasuke weakly mirroring the gesture, lifting his hand just enough to return the sign.

The battle in the distance was nothing short of a slaughter. Zabuza and Haku tore through the brigands like blades through mist, their movements precise and merciless. Blood slicked the bridge as Gato's men faltered, their courage crumbling under the assault. Amid the chaos, Kimiko's eyes caught a stirring sight in the distance: Inari, his small frame bold and determined, hefting a makeshift crossbow with a pot perched on his head like a makeshift helmet. Behind him marched the townsfolk, armed with whatever crude weapons they could find—axes, hoes, even sharpened sticks.

"Stop where you are!" Inari shouted, his boyish voice cutting through the clamor. Beside him stood two of Naruto's clones, weapons at the ready. "This island is our home. One step further, and you'll die where you stand!"

Tazuna, standing near Kimiko, gasped in astonishment. "Inari… You rallied the townsfolk."

Kimiko allowed a faint smile to touch her lips as she took in the sight. "Not bad, kid," she murmured to herself.

"Inari!" Naruto's voice rang out jubilantly, his face lighting up with pride. He raised a hand in greeting, his enthusiasm uncontainable. "You're amazing!"

Inari puffed out his chest, his eyes gleaming with determination. "Heh, it's just being a hero, you know? That last-minute, knick-of-time stuff!"

The stand-off between the villagers, the brigands, and the battered shinobi reached a tense crescendo. Haku and Zabuza, bloodied but unyielding, leaped back, landing gracefully next to Naruto. The blond grinned, his eyes burning with excitement.

"Good job, kid," Zabuza grunted, his voice rough but approving. He hefted his cleaver, surveying the frightened mob before him. "Mindif I ask you to tag in?"

Naruto flashed a wide grin and formed a handsign. "Let's do it!" With a loud poof, hundreds of shadow clones popped into existence, their identical expressions mirroring his eagerness.

Zabuza chuckled darkly. "Not bad, kid." His blood-streaked face twisted into a grin as he turned toward Kakashi. "What about you, Copy Ninja? Gonna let me and these two brats have all the fun?"

Kakashi sighed, rubbing the back of his neck in mock exasperation. "This day is entirely too eventful." He made a handsign of his own, and in a puff of smoke, dozens of Kakashi clones appeared, standing in formation behind the Naruto clones. The bridge now stood as a battlefield ready to be claimed, with the villagers rallying behind them, their courage rekindled.

Kimiko watched the spectacle unfold, her heart swelling with quiet pride. She glanced down at Sasuke, still immobile but alert, his dark eyes flickering with faint annoyance at his predicament. She eased herself onto the ground beside him, folding her hands behind her head as she stared up at the sky.

"Mind if I lay here for a while?" Kimiko asked cheekily, her tone light despite the fatigue tugging at her body.

Sasuke let out a soft grunt, his lips twitching into what could almost be a smirk. "Do what you want," he muttered. "Not like I'm going anywhere."

Kimiko chuckled softly, the sounds of battle and the rallying cries of the villagers filling the air around them. For the first time in what felt like days, she allowed herself a moment of peace.