The opaque mist swallowed her, wrapping around her like a living entity, suffocating and dense. Every breath felt weighted, every movement uncertain. Kimiko pressed her senses outward, reaching for the faintest flicker of chakra. The chilling, predatory cold that belonged to Haku brushed against her awareness, accompanied by the oppressive, monstrous aura of Zabuza—a demonic presence lurking somewhere in the shrouded expanse.
But in an instant, both signatures vanished. As if they had never been there.
Her crimson eyes narrowed, frustration creeping into her thoughts. They're too good at masking themselves. Even my sensory abilities can't keep up for long. With a swift, soundless motion, Kimiko flickered to a new position, landing softly on the damp ground. Her tanto gleamed in her hand, but no strike came.
If only Naruto could keep his voice down, she thought bitterly. And if Sasuke weren't so intent on one-upping him, maybe we'd have had a chance.
Her musings were interrupted by a cold whisper behind her ear. "Caught you."
Kimiko stiffened. Three long, glinting senbon pressed against her throat. She hadn't even felt Haku approach.
"Ugh, I give up," she muttered, lowering her tanto. The senbon were withdrawn as the suffocating mist began to lift. The world gradually reappeared, revealing Zabuza perched on a high tree branch, his arms crossed, watching the scene with detached amusement. Below him, Kakashi leaned casually against the base of the tree, his ever-present orange book in hand.
"Good job," Kakashi said without looking up. "You lasted longer than Naruto and Sasuke."
Haku stepped into view, a serene smile gracing his lips. "Indeed," he said gently, his soft voice almost a balm after the grueling exercise. "Your instincts and sensory ability are remarkable, Kimiko-san. Navigating the Hiding in Mist Jutsu is a feat that takes years, even for skilled sensors like yourself."
Kimiko frowned but said nothing, still replaying the exercise in her mind. She felt the weight of her teammates' absence keenly. If only they'd worked better as a unit…
"It's your teamwork that needs work, not your skill," Haku added, as if reading her thoughts. "Had you moved together with Sasuke and Naruto instead of splitting up, your combined strengths might have countered Zabuza-san's technique."
Zabuza let out a low chuckle. "That's a pretty way of saying you three got picked off one by one. Classic rookie mistake."
Kimiko's frown deepened, though she bit back the retort forming on her tongue. She knew Zabuza was right—brutally so. Despite their massive growth, their team still lacked the coordination necessary to face truly elite opponents, especially ones that knew their capabilities and wouldn't underestimate them.
"Cheer up," Haku said warmly, stepping closer. "Even in failure, there's progress. For Zabuza-san to acknowledge your potential, even if indirectly, is no small feat. And you're definitely showing much better teamwork than would be expected of a new team."
Kimiko blinked, glancing up at Zabuza, who gave a slight smirk but said nothing. She sighed, adjusting her grip on her tanto. "If only Naruto could take things seriously, and if Sasuke weren't so…" She trailed off, searching for the right word.
"...Sasuke?" Kakashi supplied with a bemused glance, finally closing his book.
Kimiko rolled her eyes. "Of course they are. Where are those two anyway?"
"They're off training on their own," Kakashi replied lazily, placing his book into his back pocket. "After everything that happened on the bridge, they insisted on pushing themselves harder. Honestly, I should've known better than to let them train together," he muttered, releasing a resigned sigh.
It wasn't difficult to imagine. Sasuke, barely recovered from his injuries, had practically thrown himself into training alongside Naruto, spurred on by their shared drive to improve, a well as his desire to explore the capabilities of his newly awakened Sharingan. The energy they exuded was palpable, almost infectious. And yet, it had taken an unusual turn after their encounter with Zabuza and Haku.
The tension between both sides had been palpable at first. After all, it wasn't every day one trained with someone they'd been trying to kill just days prior. But Kakashi, in his usual pragmatic way, had reminded them of a critical truth about the shinobi life. "Ideally," he had explained, "Shinobi are professionals. Holding onto grudges clouds your judgment and undermines your efficiency. Knowing when to let bygones be bygones isn't just a nicety—it's essential."
Surprisingly, Zabuza and Haku had been quick to agree. As mercenaries operating on the fringes of the shinobi world, they had little room for petty resentments. Their reasons for taking Gato's job had been pragmatic, not personal—a necessity driven by the harsh realities of survival. Kimiko had since learned that Zabuza's group wasn't merely a rogue faction; they were part of a broader coalition of Kirigakure rebels. These exiles, scattered and desperate, had once attempted to overthrow the tyrannical Mizukage. Their failure had forced them into the shadows, scraping by as mercenaries to fund their resistance.
Kimiko frowned at the thought. The layers of complexity surrounding her would-be enemies unsettled her. They weren't the simple villains she had initially pegged them as. Instead, they were just…people. Shinobi fighting for survival and ideals, however tarnished by bloodshed. In another life, they might have even been allies.
In this life, they could be allies, Kimiko reminded herself. It was a strange thought—alien, even—but one she had brought into reality by ensuring the two lived. And judging by how tolerable their company had proven to be—Haku more so than Zabuza—she couldn't bring herself to regret it. In fact, with Haku's genuine kindness and Zabuza's begrudging but honest willingness to train them, she found herself almost looking forward to their sessions. Especially Haku, who had seemed genuinely impressed with her speed.
"I see," Kimiko said, a faint smile curving her lips. "I'll go watch them, then. Maybe join in for a bit of training, too."
Before she could take a step, Kakashi's voice halted her. "Before you go," he said, his tone uncharacteristically firm. "Come over here. I need a word."
Puzzled, Kimiko turned to follow him as he motioned toward an isolated spot in the forested backyard of Tazuna's home. Zabuza and Haku exchanged a glance but said nothing, redirecting their attention to assisting Tazuna's family with bridge construction. That they had been welcomed at all, despite their earlier attempts on Tazuna's life, was surprising enough, though it came with the clear stipulation that they pitch in to earn their keep.
Kakashi stopped at a quiet clearing and turned to face her, his single visible eye scrutinizing her with a detached, clinical sharpness that made her stomach twist. She knew exactly what this was about.
"So," Kakashi began, his tone deceptively casual, "mind explaining why you decided to jump in front of my potentially fatal attack?"
Oh. Shit.
Kimiko fought the urge to wince, schooling her expression into something calm and collected. She had hoped Kakashi might let the incident slide, but of course, that was wishful thinking. Taking a steadying breath, she gripped her tanto, its familiar weight grounding her.
"Kakashi-sensei," she started, her voice measured and steady, "I acted on instinct. From where I stood, I could see that Chidori was going to strike Haku. But..." She hesitated briefly, eyes darting toward the distant figures of Zabuza and Haku before returning to meet Kakashi's gaze. "If you'd hit him, he would have died, but not before using his kekkei genkai to retaliate or trap you. At that range, Zabuza could have found a way to escape from your ninken and then capitalized on the chaos to target you—or worse, Tazuna-san."
Kakashi's expression didn't change, but the faint narrowing of his eye made it clear he was listening. Kimiko pressed on.
"I wasn't trying to undermine you, Sensei," she said, her voice firm but not defensive. "I was trying to buy us time. Time to shift the fight to our advantage, to prevent a cascade of events that would put the mission—and our team—in jeopardy. You've always said the first duty of a shinobi is to ensure the mission's success, and that meant protecting Tazuna-san at all costs."
"Hrm," Kakashi mused, his tone neutral but sharp. "That's fine and strategic reasoning."
Kimiko let out an audible sigh, her slim shoulders rising and falling in visible relief. At least that was one problem she had managed to talk herself out of—
"I don't believe you," Kakashi said flatly.
Kimiko froze, her breath catching as her crimson eyes darted to Kakashi. His single exposed eye now bore into hers with piercing intensity.
"You didn't calculate or think about minimizing losses or ensuring the mission's success," Kakashi continued, his tone firm but low. "If that were your real goal, you would have gone for Zabuza instead. At that range, he wouldn't have had time to counter you. And as fast as he is, Haku wouldn't have been able to react fast enough to weave a jutsu to attack me. You know that. That wasn't strategy on his part—it was a last-ditch suicide move to save Zabuza."
Kimiko flinched. The words landed like hammer blows, heavy and inescapable. Her mind raced to formulate a response, but Kakashi wasn't finished.
"You wanted to save Haku," Kakashi pressed. "And for some reason, you were willing to put yourself in the path of my attack to do it. You were ready to let me stab through you to save two people who, if the situation called for it, would have killed all three of us without hesitation." His voice softened, but the steel in it remained. "Explain, Kimiko. No lies this time. Please."
Her lips parted, but no words came. She could feel the weight of his words sinking in—this wasn't just about her actions, but the implications behind them. Worse still, she couldn't ignore the thought that Kakashi might have connected her actions to his own past—another Chidori, another life almost taken by his hand.
Kimiko exhaled slowly, tilting her head downward. She couldn't exactly tell Kakashi the truth—that she wanted to ensure a better shinobi world than the one she'd watched unfold through a screen in her childhood. Instead, she forced herself to meet his gaze again.
"...I didn't think either of them deserved to die," she said quietly.
Kakashi arched an eyebrow. "You think they don't deserve to die because they've been helping with your training?" His voice was skeptical but calm. "In case you've forgotten, Zabuza is called the Demon of the Hidden Mist for a reason. He's killed dozens, if not hundreds, of people—classmates, civilians, shinobi. He even tried to assassinate his own Mizukage. If he decides to kill us, Haku won't hesitate to help him."
"He won't," Kimiko said instinctively, then corrected herself. "I mean… not now. Not anymore."
Kakashi sighed heavily. "You're letting sentiment cloud your judgment. Zabuza may be cooperating now, but that doesn't erase his crimes. And Haku's loyalty means he'll follow Zabuza wherever he goes, no matter the body count. Are you really so sure they're worth saving?"
Kimiko's jaw tightened. "Yagura isn't fit to be Mizukage," she said flatly, meeting his gaze without flinching. "It's not just about strength. A Kage should have their people's best interests at heart."
Kakashi's brow furrowed. "You're saddling the role with concepts like morality and humanity. A Kage's job is to defend their village, not to win popularity contests. Yagura may have been brutal, but the Mist is secure under his rule. Their bloody reputation kept enemies at bay."
Kimiko's eyes narrowed. "Did it?" she shot back. "They became so isolated and feared that even seasoned killers like Zabuza rebelled. That's not security—it's stagnation and fear. That's the opposite of what a Kage should do."
Kakashi held her gaze for a long moment, then exhaled through his nose, his expression softening into something unreadable. "So, what's your plan, then? Decide who lives and who dies based on your values?"
The question made her pause. It wasn't just the weight of his words, but the sharp edge of truth within them that gave her pause. Her answer came slower this time, her voice quieter.
"...No," she admitted. "But I don't think there should be undue deaths when they can be prevented. There's room for debate about the worth of their lives."
"And the hundreds of people Zabuza's killed?" Kakashi asked, his voice measured yet sharp, like a blade striking precisely where it needed to. "Do they not count as undue deaths?"
Kimiko flinched. The weight of his words pressed against her, but she forced herself to answer. "They had no choice," she said, her voice trembling but resolute. "They needed the funds to fight for their homeland, to free it fro—"
"And the people they killed were just obstacles," Kakashi interrupted, his voice still calm but cutting. "Casualties in the name of a noble cause, as heroic freedom fighters ought to do. Isn't that right?" His exposed eye bore into her, unyielding.
Kimiko opened her mouth to respond, but the retort caught in her throat. Kakashi's tone hadn't risen, but the weight behind it was inescapable. He shook his head with a sigh, a mixture of weariness and disappointment etched into his features.
"Tell me, Kimiko," he continued, his voice quieter but no less piercing. "What about the shinobi Zabuza killed in his defiance of the system? The civilians caught in the crossfire of his rebellion? Do you think they had any choice in their fates?"
Kimiko opened her mouth to retort, but no words came. Her mind raced for a counterargument, but the weight of Kakashi's logic bore down on her like a heavy fog. Then, it hit her—Kakashi was right. She was trying to justify her decision to a genius shinobi, a seasoned veteran who had seen more bloodshed and moral grayness than she could fathom. It was a battle she was bound to lose.
Her shoulders slumped slightly as she exhaled, the fight draining from her. "...Haku spared Naruto," she said finally, her voice quieter, more measured. "When I encountered him on his way back, he told me he'd met Naruto and had a conversation with him. He didn't harm a single hair on his head."
Her crimson eyes flicked toward the ground before meeting Kakashi's gaze again. "And then, on the bridge, he spared Sasuke and Naruto again. He could have killed them both. I… I wanted to repay that mercy. And…the only way that could happen is if I save Zabuza, too."
Kakashi was quiet for a long moment, then he reached out and placed a hand gently on her forehead.
"First," he said, his voice calm but firm, "never lie to your sensei." His lone visible eye softened slightly. "You need to understand, in the shinobi world, the relationship between a sensei and their student is one of the most sacred bonds."
Kimiko nodded, a little embarrassed but grateful for his patience.
"Secondly…" Kakashi continued, his hand falling back to his side, "I understand why you did it. But… please, next time…" He sighed, as if searching for the right words. "Think of yourself. Don't just throw yourself into harm's way unnecessarily. I know we all have moments where we push past our boundaries, but…" He shook his head slightly. "There's a difference between taking a calculated risk and being reckless."
Kimiko bit her lip, nodding again, but something still lingered in her thoughts. They were speaking so openly—maybe this was her chance.
"Sensei," she began hesitantly, her voice soft but tinged with curiosity, "can I ask you something?"
"Hm?" Kakashi tilted his head slightly, his attention now fully on her.
"You were the Fourth Hokage's student, right?" she asked innocently. It wasn't exactly a secret, but it was one of those things that wasn't often talked about openly.
Kakashi's eye narrowed slightly in thought. "I was," he confirmed after a pause. "Why?"
Kimiko hesitated, racking her brain for the right way to frame her question. She took a deep breath. "I… felt something during the fight. That very ugly chakra leaking from Naruto…" Her voice trailed off as she searched for the right words, her eyes flicking toward the ground. "It wasn't the first time. When I was a baby, I got flashes of it—just faint memories, almost like echoes."
It was a lie, but it was the only way she could explain her knowledge without revealing too much.
Kakashi's posture stiffened slightly. "And?" he asked, his tone careful now, his attention sharp.
"And…" Kimiko said slowly, as if piecing her thoughts together, "people always told us to stay away from Naruto." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "I read about how tailed beasts were sealed into people… into Jinchūriki, to keep them in check."
She met Kakashi's gaze, her expression equal parts cautious and resolute. "Sensei… is Naruto a Jinchūriki?"
Kakashi sighed, looking at her. "You're too curious for your own good." Kakashi scratched his own hair. "Alright, I might as well tell you what happened."
Kakashi gave her the rundown on Naruto's situation—how the Nine-Tailed Fox had been sealed within him and the importance of keeping that secret for Naruto's safety. Kimiko already understood the gravity of the situation, and she knew it wasn't her place to share that truth with Naruto—not until someone like Jiraiya revealed it to him. Yet the weight of that knowledge unsettled her. The Akatsuki were out there, likely hunting Naruto, and they had no real way of preparing him for what that would mean.
All in due time, she reassured herself. But the unease lingered.
After her conversation with Kakashi, Kimiko decided it was time to seek out Haku and Zabuza. They were, surprisingly, fascinating to speak with. Now that she'd changed their fates by ensuring their survival, she found herself drawn to learning more about them. They weren't supposed to live this long, after all, and every interaction felt like uncharted territory.
"Konnichiwa," she greeted as she approached the pair, who were crouched near the forest edge, gathering herbs. Haku, now dressed in the same casual attire she'd seen during their first encounter, looked up and offered her a warm smile. Zabuza, on the other hand, gave only a gruff grunt of acknowledgment.
"Kimiko-chan," Haku said warmly, his voice as polite as ever. "Would you be willing to help us? We're gathering herbs to make medicine for the villagers."
Kimiko blinked in surprise, caught off guard by the request. "Oh, I didn't know you knew medical ninjutsu," she said.
Haku smiled modestly. "I know the basics. It was necessary—I've never been on a mission where Zabuza-san didn't come back wounded."
"Hmph," Zabuza muttered, refusing to meet her gaze.
Kimiko's lips quirked into a small smile. "It's really kind of you to do this for the village, Haku."
Haku glanced at Zabuza with a faintly amused expression. "It wasn't my idea," he said evenly.
Kimiko's eyes flicked to Zabuza, who shifted uncomfortably before huffing. "It's just repayment for not being thrown out like dogs," he said bluntly, his tone carrying a hint of embarrassment.
Kimiko blinked. For some reason, she hadn't expected that kind of sentiment from him.
"That," Zabuza added, his voice firming, "and Haku and I are in negotiations with Tazuna to divide Gato's remaining assets."
Kimiko nodded slowly, an understanding dawning in her mind. It made sense. Gato's company had a near-monopoly on the Land of Waves' infrastructure, from industrial ships to port facilities. The villagers, though exploited and underpaid, had the technical expertise to operate these systems—expertise that Zabuza and Haku could leverage.
Zabuza and Haku, on the other hand, would likely benefit more from Gato's liquid assets. Bribes stashed in boltholes, ryo from illicit transactions, and incriminating ledgers connecting Gato to criminal enterprises were all tools that Zabuza could use to consolidate power or further his goals. It wasn't purely altruistic, but it was practical.
"And what about you, Kimiko-chan? I suppose you're versed in medical ninjutsu?" Haku asked, his tone polite yet curious.
"Oh, not really, no." Kimiko admitted with a small, sheepish smile. She knew that in a three-man cell, one member was usually assigned to be the team's medical-nin—a role that often fell to the kunoichi. But if she were being honest, medical ninjutsu was far more complex than she'd ever anticipated. It wasn't just about chakra control; it demanded a deep, precise understanding of human anatomy, far beyond what she knew about striking weak points to incapacitate or kill.
"Oh, that's a shame," said Haku, tilting his head thoughtfully. "I thought with your knowledge of poisons, you might know some medical ninjutsu."
"It's just a childhood interest," Kimiko replied with a faint smile. "Something I decided to incorporate into my fighting style."
To her surprise, it was Zabuza who grunted and spoke, his deep voice cutting through the conversation. "Your poisoncraft is decent, but it won't carry you far. You're focusing on the wrong things," he said bluntly.
Kimiko blinked, her eyes widening slightly. This was the second time someone had criticized her focus on poisons, and she couldn't help but feel a twinge of irritation.
"Zabuza-san," Haku chided lightly, though his tone carried a hint of amusement.
"I'm just being honest," Zabuza said with a shrug. "Medical ninjutsu isn't where your potential lies, and neither is poison. Your foundation's too solidly built around overwhelming your enemies with raw speed and power. You're quick, deadly with a blade, and your chakra reserves are massive—way too big for someone your size and age. You're better suited to leading the charge than skulking around with tricks like poison. That's for people who need every advantage they can get. It's a crutch for people who need it. You don't. You have the perfect body and skillset for a direct fighter."
Kimiko frowned, tilting her head. "Well, you use powerful water jutsu, but you also hide in the mist to do your Silent Killing. Isn't that a trick?"
"I do," Zabuza agreed, his tone unbothered. "But that's because Silent Killing is my niche, my strength. I don't have the chakra to sustain big, flashy moves. If someone survives my mist, then I resort to brute force—but only because I have no choice. Even then, relying on brute force lost me my fight with your sensei."
Kimiko sighed softly. "That's true, I suppose. But I still think poison has its uses."
Zabuza shrugged again, his indifference clear. "It's your choice. But with your chakra reserves, chakra control, and kenjutsu skills, you'd be better off focusing on direct combat. And leading."
Kimiko blinked in surprise. "Me? Lead?"
Zabuza smirked. "Yeah. Naruto's got the chakra, but he's scatterbrained and undisciplined. Sasuke's techniques are polished, but he's too self-absorbed. You've got the balance they lack. You're already acting like a leader—you just don't see it."
Kimiko tilted her head, skepticism lacing her voice. "Why me?"
"Leadership isn't about being the strongest or the smartest," Zabuza said, his tone firm. "It's about knowing how to use your team. You already showed that in our fight. You knew when to listen to that brat Naruto's ridiculous plan because your instincts told you he had the best idea for that situation. You knew when to step back and let Kakashi lead, and you knew when to push forward yourself. That's leadership—recognizing the strengths of others and knowing how to activate them to cover your weaknesses."
She…never saw it that way. Even in her previous life, she was content to be a follower. But…her? A leader? It still felt daunting.
"So, what are your plans after the bridge is completed? Will you stick around?" Kimiko asked, steering the conversation toward safer waters.
Haku's eyes twinkled with unspoken amusement, but he graciously refrained from pressing her earlier points. "We'll be leaving," he said with a faint smile. "Yagura's hunter-nin will no doubt pick up our trail soon enough. We have no desire to endanger the people here, not when they've just secured their independence."
"Oh?" Kimiko tilted her head, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "Where do you plan to go?"
"Back to the Land of Water," Zabuza grunted without hesitation.
Kimiko furrowed her brows. "But didn't you just say you were trying to avoid the hunter-nin?"
"We are," Haku said calmly. "But we can lose their trail once we're on the move. Besides, our portion of Gato's assets provides… certain opportunities."
"Haku," Zabuza interrupted, his tone a low warning as his eyes narrowed.
"They have a right to know, Zabuza-san," Haku replied smoothly, unfazed. "It's not as if Konoha is exactly allied with Yagura's Kirigakure."
Kimiko's curiosity deepened, her gaze shifting between the two of them. She could feel the weight of unspoken plans lingering in the air, and Haku didn't leave her waiting long.
"We plan to use the funds to support the insurgency against the Mizukage," Haku said evenly.
Kimiko blinked, she supposed she shouldn't be surprised, but as far as she knew, there wasn't a cohesive movement against Zabuza. More like certain disparate groups launching independent attacks against Yagura.
"There used to be," Zabuza cut in, his voice gruff. "Now it's mostly splinter groups, bickering and breaking apart. They're being picked off one by one by Yagura's forces. The worst of them have turned to banditry, no better than the tyrant they claim to oppose." He sighed heavily, the weight of his words pulling the air taut. "Still, there's potential. I've heard rumors about a woman uniting the scattered remnants under her banner. Even that hunter-nin with the Byakugan—Ao—has apparently joined her cause. Word is, she's gaining support from moderates inside Kirigakure itself."
Kimiko's breath hitched as realization struck. Mei Terumi. So this was how her rise to power began.
"You're planning to join her, then?" Kimiko asked, her voice measured. The idea of Zabuza and Haku allying with Mei Terumi intrigued her, though she couldn't help but wonder how their involvement might ripple through the timeline she knew.
Zabuza shrugged, his expression unreadable. "We'll see. I haven't met her yet. If she's everything they say she is, there's no reason not to. The only reason I led my own insurgency was because no one else stepped up." He paused, his gaze sharpening. "But I'll decide after seeing her myself."
"And what about your old comrades? And the people in your group?" Kimiko ventured. "Will you bring them along?"
Zabuza snorted dismissively. "If you mean the Demon Brothers, Konoha can keep them. Greedy fools, the both of them." His tone softened as he continued. "But yes, I'll try to make contact with some of the old crew. There's one senpai of mine from the Seven Swordsmen who might be interested. Last I heard, he'd joined another group, but who knows? If he hears about Terumi's plans, he might reconsider."
Kimiko raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "You had a senior? I didn't know that."
Zabuza scratched his chin, his expression unusually thoughtful. "Yeah. I had a few. This one's one of the best, though. Great shinobi. Loyal as hell. Haven't seen him in years, but his chakra was something else—massive reserves, like that Naruto brat's." He glanced at her with a faint smirk. "Yours will likely look like his reserves after a few years,"
Kimiko blinked in surprise. "What's his name?"
"Kisame Hoshigaki," Zabuza said, his voice carrying an undercurrent of admiration.
Kimiko almost flinched outwardly. Kisame Hoshigaki—one of the strongest members of the Akatsuki, possibly only behind Obito, Pain, and his partner, Itachi. A cold knot twisted in her stomach as she considered the unintended consequences of saving Zabuza and Haku. Had she inadvertently set the stage for the Akatsuki to gain two powerful new members?
"That's assuming we even get the chance to meet him," Haku added, his tone as calm as ever. "Zabuza-san, he hasn't responded to any of your letters."
Zabuza shrugged nonchalantly. "Eh, it can't be helped."
Kimiko suppressed a sigh of relief but remained wary. The last thing she needed was for these two to cross paths with Kisame. "Well," she said, trying to steer the conversation away, "I'll be happy to help with the herb gathering in the meantime. Maybe after that—"
"Don't even think about it," Zabuza interrupted, eyeing her knowingly. "Kakashi already told me about your little trick. The answer's no—I'm not teaching you any jutsu. Learn to follow your sensei's orders, brat."
Kimiko's shoulders slumped, and she scowled faintly. Her sensei was proving to be quite the roadblock lately.
"But," Zabuza added, a smirk creeping onto his face, "he didn't say anything about Haku teaching you. Or about me showing you what I know about kenjutsu and taijutsu."
Kimiko's eyes lit up instantly, a grin spreading across her face. She could tell by the amused glint in Zabuza's gaze that he enjoyed seeing her mischievous streak.
"Thank you, Zabuza-san, Haku-san!" she said, her enthusiasm spilling out.
Haku offered her a gentle smile. "It would be my pleasure to help, Kimiko-chan."
Zabuza grunted, clearly pleased. "Heh. You've got spunk, I'll give you that. Let's see if you can actually put it to good use."
Haku proved to be a brilliant teacher and sparring partner, sharing a wealth of knowledge that quickly expanded Kimiko's repertoire. While Zabuza strictly forbade him from teaching Kirigakure-exclusive techniques, Haku still imparted plenty of insight, including details about his self-created Thousand Flying Water Senbon technique. Designed as both a defensive measure and an offensive kill-zone maneuver, the jutsu was ideal for dealing with multiple opponents encroaching too close. Haku explained that it could either force enemies to retreat or trap them in a hailstorm of senbon that would shred them relentlessly.
"For me, it's usually a last resort," Haku admitted during one of their sessions. "It's highly effective, but it burns through chakra quickly."
That wasn't much of an issue for Kimiko, given her naturally large reserves. She was fascinated by the concept and intrigued by how versatile senbonjutsu could be. Haku's demonstrations and explanations deepened her appreciation for the weapon.
Senbon, she remembered from the Academy (and admittedly from her distant anime memories), were ninja needles originally repurposed from medical tools. Unlike kunai or shuriken, senbon weren't primarily designed to kill but rather to disable or disorient. Their slim, almost invisible profile made them harder to detect and dodge, while their pinpoint accuracy allowed skilled users to strike critical acupuncture points. With sufficient anatomical knowledge, a well-placed senbon could paralyze, inflict debilitating pain, or even incapacitate painlessly. Add poison to the equation, and the weapon's utility grew exponentially.
Kimiko dove into senbonjutsu with eager determination, and Haku was an attentive mentor. He meticulously taught her the body's most vulnerable acupuncture points—where to strike to cause paralysis, how to inflict maximum pain, and, when necessary, the locations to ensure a mercifully swift takedown.
To improve her practical skills, Haku devised an ingenious training regimen that integrated senbonjutsu with her speed drills, something both he and Zabuza emphasized she should refine early. He constructed an intricate obstacle course out of ice, complete with twisting paths, sudden drops, and moving targets. Kimiko had to sprint through the course at top speed, launching senbon at designated targets at precise intervals. As if that wasn't challenging enough, Haku pursued her relentlessly, attacking with his own senbon. She was forced to either deflect his projectiles mid-flight using her own or evade them entirely while maintaining her momentum.
The training was grueling but exhilarating. Each session pushed her agility, accuracy, and reflexes to new heights. By the third day, Kimiko could feel a noticeable improvement in her precision and control, her senbon striking true even in the chaos of high-speed movement. More importantly, she was beginning to grasp the delicate balance between speed, strategy, and technique that senbonjutsu demanded.
Zabuza's training meanwhile, much to her surprise, was intensely technical. He emphasized that kenjutsu was more than just combat—it was a sacred art in Kirigakure. "Every child with a sword dreams of one day being worthy of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist," he explained. His tone held an unmistakable reverence that Kimiko hadn't expected.
When he deemed her "passable and decent," it stung. The words lit a fire in Kimiko, though Zabuza seemed amused by her frustration.
Over the next days, Zabuza drilled her relentlessly. He focused on refining her kata, breaking down her form to its bare fundamentals and forcing her to rebuild it with precision. "Speed without control is just wasted effort," he said, swiping aside one of her strikes with ease during a sparring match. "Your movements need purpose. Every step, every swing, every breath—it's all part of the dance."
Though he refrained from teaching her anything explicitly tied to Kiri-style kenjutsu , likely out of loyalty to his homeland's traditions, Zabuza's general advice proved invaluable. He corrected her stances, demonstrated how to flow between offensive and defensive techniques seamlessly, and sparred with her to ingrain those lessons into muscle memory. His critiques were blunt but effective.
"Your grip's too tight—you'll burn out your stamina in a prolonged fight," he grunted during one session, tapping the flat of his massive sword against her tanto to emphasize the point. "Loosen up. A sword is an extension of your body, not a hammer. Let it move with you."
What stood out most was how Zabuza drilled her on adaptability. "The battlefield doesn't care about how clean your form is," he said after disarming her for the third time in a row. "You need to read your opponent, their strengths, and their weaknesses. Exploit openings, and don't waste time hesitating."
The training sessions stretched over a full week, alternating between Haku and Zabuza. Kakashi seemed more than content to let the two handle Kimiko's regimen for the time being, as his attention was firmly fixed on Sasuke and Naruto. With Naruto, his vigilance was particularly sharp, no doubt watching for any signs of instability in the seal containing the Nine-Tails. By the week's end, however, the bridge was finally completed, and their time in the Land of Waves drew to a close.
The opening ceremony for the bridge was a modest, almost solemn affair. Kimiko was struck by the weight of Tazuna's remarks, which framed the bridge not as "a new start, nor a new chapter, but the culmination of all sacrifices." His words reverberated through the gathered crowd, a mix of pride and somber acknowledgment of the hardships endured. To her surprise, the honor of cutting the ceremonial ribbon was shared between Tazuna and their sensei, Kakashi. It felt fitting, given the collective effort that had gone into this moment.
As the ceremony concluded, Zabuza and Haku were the first to leave, disappearing into the horizon with quiet resolve. Their departure left Team Seven to be seen off by the townsfolk, who had gathered on the newly completed bridge to bid them farewell.
"Thanks to you," said Tazuna, his voice heavy with emotion, "we've successfully completed the bridge. But…" He sighed, his gaze softening. "It's going to be awfully dull around here without you."
Kimiko's attention was drawn to Inari, who stood nearby, his eyes shimmering with unshed tears. She noticed how Naruto, despite his bravado, seemed to be struggling just as much to hold back his own emotions. The sight was both heartwarming and amusing, a bittersweet moment that made her smile.
"No problem, Tazuna-san!" Naruto declared with his characteristic exuberance, puffing out his chest. "We'll come back to visit you next time!"
"You… you better," muttered Inari, his voice trembling as he looked down. His hands clenched into small fists, his resolve to hold back his tears visibly fraying.
"Inari-kun, it's okay to cry if you really want to," said Naruto, his own voice wavering dangerously close to breaking.
"I-I'm not gonna cry, Naruto-nii-san," Inari protested, though his quivering lip betrayed him. "But… it's okay if you do."
"Me? No way," Naruto harrumphed, spinning on his heel to hide the way his eyes glistened. His words were defiant, but the slight hitch in his voice gave him away as he strode off with the rest of the team.
Kimiko couldn't help but giggle softly at the sight of the two, both stubbornly choking back tears while trying to comfort each other in their own clumsy way. It was a perfect encapsulation of Naruto's endearing spirit and the bond he'd forged with Inari during their time here.
As they walked across the bridge, heading toward the path back to Konoha, Kimiko stole a glance over her shoulder at the town that had become a part of their lives, however briefly. The Land of Waves had left its mark on her, just as they had left theirs on it.
Of course, their idyllic walk didn't stay quiet for long.
"That's it, I've decided," Naruto declared suddenly, his voice breaking the comfortable silence of their walk. Kimiko turned her gaze to him, her head tilting slightly in curiosity.
"Just like Zabuza-san, I'm going to find my own ninja way."
A small smile crept onto Kimiko's lips, soft but genuine. Even Sasuke, who normally scoffed at Naruto's declarations, seemed to be mulling over his words. From the corner of her eye, she caught the faintest crease in Kakashi's brow—a subtle tell that even he was smiling beneath his mask.
Naruto's determination was infectious. It sparked something within her, a quiet but persistent question she couldn't ignore. She knew what Naruto's ninja way was destined to be—that he'd never run away and never go back on his word, no matter how impossible the odds. She knew Kakashi's, too: to never abandon his comrades, for those who did were worse than scum. And even Sasuke had his own ninja way, though it was a bitter one, forged from his grief and resolve to avenge his family.
But what about her?
Kimiko's steps slowed for a moment, her thoughts swirling. What was her ninja way? Did she have something so integral to her being that she would hold it above all else? She had always been deliberate in her actions, meticulous in her goals, but those were strategies, not convictions. Her thoughts flickered to Zabuza and Haku, two shinobi who had defied the expectations of their world and carved their own fragile bond out of blood and loyalty. Could she find a belief that strong?
Her smile faltered as doubt crept in, but she pushed it away. The answer didn't need to come now. It would come in time, with every mission, every choice, and every step she took. For now, she walked beside her team, her blade at her side, and the faint ember of a question burning in her heart.
Because someday, she would decide. Someday, she would have her own ninja way.
The journey back to Konoha was uneventful, save for the moment they reached the gates of the village. There, Kotetsu, one of the Chūnin assigned to gate duty, immediately flagged them down with a casual wave, his demeanor shifting slightly when he noticed their sensei.
"You're to report to the Hokage's office immediately," Kotetsu said, his tone brisk but professional. Kakashi gave a simple nod in acknowledgment, gesturing for his team to follow him.
"Huh? Why does the Old Man want to see us right away?" Naruto asked, his curiosity plain as they entered the administration building. They passed the familiar reception desk, where another Chūnin glanced up briefly before sliding a logbook toward them.
"IDs," the receptionist said with practiced monotony. Each member of Team 7 handed over their identification before signing the logbook.
"It's customary to report to village leadership when a mission extends beyond its usual parameters," Kakashi explained as they walked toward the stairs leading to the Hokage's office. "Mostly to file proper documentation for mission records, adjust payment from the client if necessary, and…to assess any broader implications of what happened during the mission."
Kimiko nodded, mulling over Kakashi's words. It made sense. The shinobi-client relationship was one of calculated trust. Shinobi were bound to carry out their missions to the best of their ability, often going above and beyond when situations called for it. In return, clients were expected to be precise and truthful in their descriptions of the mission's scope and potential dangers. Failing to do so could lead to unnecessary risks for the ninja involved.
And when that trust was broken?
Kimiko glanced at her sensei, recalling the bridge builder's initial deception. Konoha's reputation was strong enough—and its clientele numerous enough—that it could afford to sever ties with unreliable clients. Yet, they hadn't abandoned Tazuna. They'd carried out the mission despite the risks, and in doing so, they had helped change the course of an entire region.
As if reading her thoughts, Kakashi spoke, his tone as nonchalant as ever. "Typically, the Jonin Commander handles the debriefing. The Hokage only gets directly involved if the mission turned out to be of significant interest or requires immediate attention."
Naruto, oblivious to the undercurrent of thought around him, grinned. "Well, whatever it's about, I bet the Old Man just wants to hear about how awesome we were!"
Sasuke snorted softly, a flicker of amusement crossing his otherwise stoic expression. "Or how you managed to yell at a civilian kid until he cried," he muttered, his voice dry but not unkind.
As they stepped into the Hokage's office, Kimiko was momentarily surprised to see that, aside from the Hokage himself, the Jōnin Commander, Shikaku Nara, was also present. He stood beside the Hokage with his usual slouched posture, exuding an air of effortless calm. His gaze flicked over Kakashi and the team, pausing momentarily on Kimiko before offering a slight nod.
Kimiko couldn't help but sense his chakra—a quiet presence, like a still night in the forest, where tall shadows stretched endlessly.
"We received your report, Kakashi," Shikaku said, his voice as unhurried as his demeanor. "But there are gaps we need filled in. Running into the Demon Brothers en route is one thing. Facing the Demon of the Hidden Mist himself? That's something else entirely." He scratched his chin, a faint hint of curiosity betraying his otherwise composed expression.
Kakashi sighed, his visible eye narrowing with faint irritation. "Where do you want me to start?"
"From the beginning," the Hokage interjected, his tone calm yet firm as he took a slow drag from his pipe. The wisps of smoke curled upward, dissipating into the air above.
"Ah," Kakashi muttered, leaning back slightly, as if resigning himself to the recounting. "Alright then."
To her surprise, Kakashi's recounting of their mission was precise and clinical, leaving no detail untouched. From their initial encounter with the Demon Brothers and the genin team's coordinated takedown to their infiltration of the Land of Waves and the two clashes with Zabuza and Haku, Kakashi recited the events with a steady, unembellished tone. Even their decision to leave the Missing-Nin alive, once it was clear they posed no further threat, was relayed without hesitation.
Kimiko and her teammates remained silent throughout, letting Kakashi's words carry the weight of their experience. The Hokage's assistant scribbled furiously into a logbook, capturing every word with remarkable efficiency, while Shikaku Nara and the Third Hokage listened intently, their gazes unwavering.
"So," Shikaku said as Kakashi concluded, his tone measured. "You're certain Zabuza Momochi and his associate won't be targeting Konoha or Land of Fire assets in the near future?"
"As Zabuza stated, they intend to return to the Mist rebellion immediately. It was their primary goal from the start," Kakashi replied evenly.
Hiruzen nodded slowly, his pipe smoldering as he considered the report. "There are corroborating reports from our intelligence division," he said, his tone reflective. "Zabuza has maintained contact with known figures within the rebellion. It's likely part of the reason we've avoided allocating resources to hunt him down. Ever since he reemerged as a mercenary, he's been cautious—avoiding direct confrontation with shinobi allied to Konoha or Kumogakure, likely to keep a low profile."
The Hokage's gaze grew somber. "Still, a shame about Kumade-kun. I had hoped his death would find some form of justice."
Kimiko's brow furrowed at the unfamiliar name. Sensing her confusion, the Hokage elaborated. "Kumade Toriichi was a Tokubetsu Jonin in the Torture and Interrogation Force. He worked as Ibiki's field counterpart, specializing in intelligence gathering and reconnaissance."
The explanation did little to ease the knot in Kimiko's chest. So Kumade had been one of Zabuza's victims during his time as an enforcer under Yagura. She frowned slightly, the weight of the revelation settling uncomfortably in her mind. Zabuza's past wasn't one she could ignore, no matter how much she wanted to justify sparing him and Haku.
"But," Shikaku spoke, letting out a long sigh, "for what it's worth, I think you made the right strategic choice." His gaze shifted to Kimiko, Sasuke, and Naruto, and a faint smile tugged at his lips. "Still, for a genin team not even a year into their careers to successfully complete an A-Rank mission? That's more than impressive—it's practically unheard of. Word of this is bound to spread," Shikaku added with a chuckle.
At that, Naruto's face lit up. "Heh, then everyone will see how awesome our team really is!" he declared, his enthusiasm uncontainable.
Sasuke remained characteristically silent, but Kimiko caught the faint upturn of his lips. And honestly? She felt a twinge of excitement herself. The anime never truly emphasized the weight of what they'd accomplished, but their file officially documenting an A-Rank mission was a significant milestone. It was certainly something to be proud of.
"Speaking of recognition," Hiruzen interjected warmly, pulling a small stack of envelopes from beneath his desk. "Here are your mission pay stubs," he said, handing them over. Kimiko reached for hers, sliding the cheque out, and her eyes widened slightly. Naruto, however, was far less subtle.
"WOAH!" he exclaimed, practically shaking with excitement. "LOOK AT ALL THESE ZEROES!"
Four hundred and fifty thousand ryo. A substantial sum. While not exactly a fortune, it was still enough to be life-changing for the average person in the village. Kimiko knew that even chunin lived relatively comfortable lives by completing regular C-Rank missions, with the occasional B-Rank providing lucrative bonuses. On top of that, some of these chuunins were assigned to specific departments and enjoyed stable incomes for their daily task for the village. It was a system that allowed even low-ranking shinobi to support themselves well.
Yet, something didn't add up. Even if the mission had been classified as an A-Rank, three hundred thousand ryo was unusually high after deducting the standard ten-to-twenty percent the village took from mission payouts. Her brows furrowed as she did the mental calculations.
Shikaku noticed her expression and smirked. "I see someone's doing their math," he teased, making Kimiko blush faintly.
Hiruzen chimed in, his tone warm. "The amount includes a bonus for subduing the Demon Brothers. That came directly from the Torture and Interrogation Division, along with a commendation for you, Kimiko. Ibiki mentioned being impressed with how you took the initiative in questioning them."
Kimiko offered a modest smile. "It's nothing, really. But I do have a question."
"Oh?" Hiruzen leaned forward slightly, curiosity gleaming in his eyes, while Shikaku tilted his head.
Kimiko hesitated for a moment before speaking. "The mission was originally misclassified as C-Rank, but we were paid full A-Rank rates. How did the village cover the difference?"
Shikaku was the one to answer, his tone thoughtful. "Good question. In cases like this, Konoha has a reserve fund specifically to compensate shinobi when a mission's classification turns out to be inaccurate. Normally, it's still not enough to match the mission's true scope. However, in your case, the Fire Daimyo himself stepped in."
Kimiko blinked in surprise, and Shikaku continued.
"The completion of the Land of Waves' bridge is a major strategic boon for the Land of Fire," he explained. "That bridge opens a direct land route between our nation and the Land of Waves, which had previously relied exclusively on maritime trade with the Land of Water and the Land of Lightning even before Gato cornered their country."
Hiruzen nodded in agreement, puffing thoughtfully on his pipe. "This strengthens our trade network and brings economic opportunities for both nations. The people of the Land of Waves, after their ordeal, are eager to rebuild and expand their trade partnerships. With the Land of Water embroiled in insurgency, they're likely to favor stable land routes over risky maritime ones."
Shikaku folded his arms, adding, "In addition, the Fire Daimyo sees this as a chance to negotiate favorable tariffs on certain goods transported to the Land of Waves. It's a long-term investment for both Konoha and the nation as a whole."
"Not to mention," Hiruzen interjected, "that the bridge will likely require shinobi protection for some time. Bandits or remnants of Gato's associates may attempt to sabotage it in retaliation. That means more mission contracts for us in the future. Ultimately, this mission has already paid for itself."
Kimiko nodded, processing their words. It made sense. Beyond their personal achievements, the mission had ripple effects that secured economic and strategic gains for the Land of Fire. The scope of their work felt even more significant now.
Naruto, as expected, was already looking bored out of his mind as the conversation veered further into politics and economics. His restless fidgeting was accompanied by a dramatic yawn, making Kimiko stifle a chuckle. Even Sasuke, with his usual aloof demeanor, was shooting her a deadpan look, clearly unimpressed. Kakashi's visible eye betrayed a faint amusement, as though he was both exasperated and entertained by her engagement in such topics.
Kimiko let out a small huff. "What? Someone has to think about this stuff," she muttered defensively, crossing her arms.
Before anyone could respond, Shikaku leaned back slightly and smirked. "Oh, by the way," he said, his tone casual, "do you know what they ended up naming the bridge?"
Kakashi blinked, clearly caught off guard. "What?"
Shikaku's smirk deepened as he turned to Hiruzen, who was eyeing Naruto with an amused fondness. "The Great Naruto Bridge," the Hokage said warmly, puffing on his pipe.
For a moment, there was silence. Then—
"W-WHAT?!" Naruto's loud exclamation filled the room, his face lighting up with pure, unbridled joy. "They named it after ME?!" He pointed at himself with both thumbs, his grin stretching so wide it threatened to split his face. "See? I told you I'm awesome! Even the people in the Land of Waves know it!"
Kimiko couldn't help but laugh softly at his enthusiasm, while Sasuke rolled his eyes, muttering under his breath, "Tch, how fitting." Yet, even he couldn't hide the now visible smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.
Kakashi gave Naruto a bemused look, his voice dry. "Well, they probably couldn't call it The Great Sasuke Bridge, now could they?"
Naruto puffed out his chest, wagging a finger at Sasuke. "That's right! You hear that, Sasuke? My name's on the bridge! That's a legacy!"
Sasuke shot him a withering glare. "It's a bridge, idiot. Not a monument."
Naruto crossed his arms and stuck out his tongue. "Jealousy doesn't look good on you, Sasuke-teme."
Kimiko rolled her eyes, smiling despite herself. "Well, at least it's memorable," she quipped. "The Land of Waves will never forget us, that's for sure."
Even Shikaku chuckled at the exchange, shaking his head. "Kids these days," he muttered, though his tone carried no malice. "Naruto, you might want to rein in that ego of yours before it gets too big for the Hokage's office."
Naruto grinned unabashedly. "No promises!"
Hiruzen chuckled softly, watching the team with a grandfatherly smile. "In time, Naruto, you'll learn that a true legacy is built not on bridges or names, but on the lives you touch and the bonds you create."
For a rare moment, Naruto paused, truly considering the Hokage's words. Then he smiled, softer this time. "Guess I'll just have to touch more lives, then."
Kimiko felt a warmth bloom in her chest at his sincerity. Without thinking, she smiled and reached over to ruffle his hair. "You're already off to a good start, Naruto."
As they left the Hokage's office and stepped back onto the bustling streets of Konoha, Kakashi broke the comfortable silence. "Well," he said, stretching lazily, "I've got to file the official mission report with Shikaku-sama, so I'll head to the Jonin Standby Station. Paperwork waits for no one." He sighed heavily, clearly less than thrilled at the prospect.
"Yeah, and I can't wait to see Iruka-sensei and have him treat me to Ichiraku Ramen for completing the mission!" Naruto declared with enthusiasm, his energy already returning in full force.
Sasuke raised a hand in a casual wave. "Later. I need to restock all the ninja tools I used on the mission."
Kimiko hesitated as an idea took root in her mind. Before the group could disperse, she called out, "Wait."
The three boys turned to look at her, curiosity etched on their faces.
"I…" She hesitated, suddenly feeling self-conscious under their expectant gazes. "I want to start a team tradition."
Kakashi tilted his head, intrigued, while Naruto squinted in confusion. "What do you mean by that, Kimiko-chan? Like… eating together after a mission?"
Kimiko nodded, encouraged by his interpretation. "Yes, but not at Ichiraku," she clarified, noticing how Naruto's face immediately fell.
"We're eating at my house," she continued with a small smile. "Tonight. I'll cook for you."
Naruto blinked, his disappointment transforming into curiosity, and even Sasuke seemed taken aback, his sharp eyes narrowing slightly. Kakashi raised an eyebrow but said nothing, waiting for her to elaborate.
Kimiko took a deep breath. "I just thought… out of all of us, I'm the only one with a complete family. And I want you to feel like part of it, too. You're not just my teammates; you're part of my family." Her voice softened, her sincerity evident. "I think sharing a meal together in my home would be a good start."
Naruto's expression brightened, a wide grin spreading across his face. "Kimiko-chan, that's awesome! I can't wait to see what you cook!" He paused, then scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Just… uh, no weird vegetables, okay?"
Sasuke crossed his arms but didn't protest, a faint look of curiosity replacing his usual aloofness. "Fine. But don't expect me to stay long."
Kakashi's lone visible eye crinkled, a telltale sign of his approval. "That's a nice idea, Kimiko. I have to speak to Shinku-sama and your sister anyway,."
Kimiko smiled, relieved by their reactions. "Alright then. Come over at seven. And don't be late," she added, directing the last part squarely at Naruto.
Naruto laughed nervously, rubbing the back of his neck. "I'll be on time, I promise!"
As Kimiko stepped through the threshold of her home, she immediately sensed the familiar warmth of three distinct chakra signatures—her mother, father, and sister. It seemed to be a rare quiet day in the household.
"Tadaima," she called softly, her voice carrying the slight weariness of a long journey.
In the sitting room, her mother was perched on a low cushion, embroidery resting delicately in her lap, while her father sat across from her, a steaming cup of tea in hand. Kurenai, fresh from training and dressed in her home attire, was the first to greet her.
"Kimiko, you're home!" Kurenai said, her tone cheerful and welcoming. "How was the C-Rank mission? My team just got one from Hokage-sama today—we're leaving tomorrow."
Kimiko hesitated for a moment, her mind turning over how best to approach the truth. She hadn't quite decided how to explain what had transpired.
"So… about that," she began, exhaling a long breath. "Turns out, the client misrepresented the mission." She spoke slowly, her tone deliberately even.
Kurenai's eyes widened, her cheerful demeanor giving way to concern. "A misrepresented mission?" she echoed in alarm. "That… usually means a B-Rank at least. But you had Kakashi-sensei with you, so I'm sure it wasn't anything too crazy—" Kurenai paused abruptly, her words catching in her throat as she caught the somber look on Kimiko's face.
"Kimiko," her sister pleaded softly, her earlier cheer now replaced with worry.
Even her father, Shinku, had turned to fully face her, setting down his tea with deliberate care. From her seat, Kimiko's mother had stopped stitching, her needle hovering over the fabric as her sharp eyes flicked to her youngest daughter. A faint frown tugged at her lips.
Kimiko sighed, her fingers brushing the hilt of her tanto for comfort. "It was an A-Rank mission," she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper.
The room fell utterly silent.
"...You need to tell us everything," Shinku said, his voice low but commanding. He rarely used that tone with her, and it sent a chill down her spine.
So she did. She recounted everything from the start—the ambush by the Demon Brothers, how she managed to defeat one while Naruto and Sasuke took down the other. She noticed the sharp glance her parents exchanged at that. She continued, describing their first encounter with Zabuza, their narrow victory, and how he returned with Haku for a second fight. She explained how she and Kakashi fought Zabuza while Naruto and Sasuke battled Haku, how Gato's betrayal turned enemies into uneasy allies, and finally, how the mission concluded.
Kimiko hesitated for only a moment before adding, "I also know about Naruto's situation. About…the nine tails."
The silence that followed was almost suffocating. It was Kurenai who broke it, not even caring about her comment regarding the nine-tails.
"You were… highly unqualified for that," she said softly, her voice trembling with concern.
Kimiko frowned, her expression hardening. "An unqualified shinobi is a dead shinobi," she replied flatly. "I'm alive, aren't I? That means I measured up to the task."
"That doesn't mean you should have," Kurenai countered firmly. "You could have been killed at any point during that mission."
"But I wasn't," Kimiko shot back. "Shinobi face danger on every mission. Kakashi-sensei wouldn't have let anything happen to us."
"And what if he couldn't stop it?" Kurenai's tone sharpened. "What if he'd been killed? Then what? You'd all be dead."
"He wasn't, and we're not," Kimiko retorted, her voice steady. "Kakashi-sensei is the Copy Ninja, the man with a thousand jutsu. If something could take him down, it would've killed anyone else in the village except the Hokage."
Kurenai's eyes narrowed. "Nice to see you think so highly of your older sister."
Kimiko faltered, guilt flickering across her face. "That's not what I meant," she said, softer this time. "You're amazing, Nee-chan, but you weren't there. Kakashi-sensei was. And he handled it."
Shinku, who had been silent throughout the exchange, finally spoke. "This isn't about comparing skills, Kimiko. It's about understanding the gravity of what you've been through." He leaned forward, his gaze piercing. "You're our daughter. We're proud of you, but we're also scared. Missions like these are supposed to be reserved for shinobi with years of experience. You're barely out of the Academy."
Kimiko's defiance softened slightly at her father's words. "I understand, Otou-san," she said quietly. "But I can't choose what missions I'm sent on. All I can do is prepare for them."
"And why weren't we informed?" To her surprise, it was her mother who spoke, her tone quiet but laced with frustration.
"...A-Class missions are usually on a need-to-know basis," To her surprise, it was her father who explained it carefully. "Hiruzen likely didn't think it necessary to inform us."
Her mother's face betrayed a flicker of hurt, though she nodded after a moment, folding her hands in her lap.
Kurenai sighed heavily after a while, some color returning to her face. "I suppose I should speak to Kakashi about this," she said. "I want to understand how he handled it. I'll find him when we return from our mission."
"You might not need to," Kimiko interjected with a small smile, earning the attention of the whole room. "I invited my team over for dinner tonight. I thought it was time you all met them, and I wanted to cook for everyone."
The room fell into a thoughtful silence. Her father arched a brow, her mother looked slightly surprised, and Kurenai tilted her head, a flicker of curiosity crossing her features.
"You're cooking?" Kurenai asked, a hint of a teasing smile on her lips, though it didn't entirely reach her eyes "Should I be worried?"
Kimiko huffed. "Nee-chan, you've eaten my cooking before. It's not that bad. Only mother's a better cook than me in this house,"
Kurenai chuckled lightly, but the gesture seemed to release some of the tension in the room. Even her father's expression softened.
"I think that's a wonderful idea," her father finally said, her voice warm. "It'll be good to see the people you've been working with. And…" she trailed off, her gaze flickering to Kaori, who did not meet his gaze, before resting on Kimiko, "it's kind of you to include them."
Kimiko felt her chest swell slightly at his words, though she quickly masked her emotions with a faint shrug. "Well, don't get used to it. They're probably going to eat us out of house and home. "Naruto, especially. He's got a bottomless pit for a stomach."
Though the tension still lingered around her household, Kimiko felt it lighten slightly. She was glad she had taken the initiative to tell them everything before they heard it from someone else. It likely helped that the truth had come from her directly.
Kimiko excused herself and quickly changed into her home kimono, ready to begin preparing for the dinner she had promised. Determined to make the evening memorable, she decided to cook a proper feast for her team and family. The Konoha market, bustling with fresh produce and vibrant chatter, provided her with everything she needed. After days of eating mostly fish in the Land of Waves, she wanted something hearty and satisfying, yet with variety to reflect everyone's tastes.
She planned the meal carefully. The centerpiece would be miso-marinated grilled chicken, savory and rich, cooked to perfection with a golden glaze. She paired it with fluffy steamed rice, grounding and familiar, a staple everyone could enjoy. For something crisp and indulgent, she chose seasonal vegetable tempura, lightly battered and fried—a nod to Naruto's love of fried foods. To balance the heavier flavors, she included a refreshing cucumber and wakame salad, its chilled simplicity adding a bright contrast. Finally, for dessert, she selected daifuku mochi, their soft exteriors hiding sweet red bean paste and fresh fruits, a treat she hoped would leave everyone smiling.
Returning home with her arms full of fresh ingredients, Kimiko set to work in the kitchen with a quiet but determined focus. Each slice of the knife, each careful fold of batter, and each sizzling pan reflected her intent—not just to cook but to create a moment of connection between her family and her team. She wanted this dinner to bridge the two worlds she lived in, to show both her family and her team the bonds she had come to treasure.
As the scents of grilled chicken and fried tempura filled the house, Kimiko allowed herself a small, hopeful smile.
The evening had settled into a warm hum of activity when the first knock came at the door. True to his word, Naruto was the first to arrive, his ever-bright grin lighting up his face as she greeted him.
"Hello, Kimiko-chan! Thank you so much for inviting me," he said enthusiastically, his tone brimming with excitement. He quickly moved inside and, to her mild surprise, bowed his head respectfully to both Kaori and Shinku, who were already seated at the table she had carefully set.
"Shinku-sama, Kaori-sama, thank you so much! My name is Naruto Uzumaki, I'm Kimiko-chan's teammate," he said with an earnestness that brought a soft smile to Kimiko's lips.
The next arrival was Sasuke, who entered with his usual quiet demeanor. He gave her a small nod of thanks, bowing briefly to her parents before taking a seat opposite Naruto. His movements were practiced, his expression reserved, but Kimiko could sense the subtle shift in his usual aloofness—perhaps a hint of appreciation for the invitation.
As expected, Kakashi was the last to arrive, strolling in with his characteristic tardiness.
"Sorry for being late, everyone," he announced casually. "Had to help an old man with his groceries."
Kimiko stifled a giggle at the predictably flimsy excuse, but Kurenai, already seated, fixed Kakashi with a glare. "What's this I hear about you dragging my sister into an A-Class Mission?"
Shinku let out a hearty laugh, breaking the tension with his booming voice. "Ha! You're looking more and more like Hakumo," he said, his tone fond but teasing. "Glad to see you're in that proper uniform, Kakashi. It fits you better than the ANBU one."
"Oi, really?" Kakashi tilted his head as if perplexed, but everyone present understood the deeper meaning behind Shinku's words.
The atmosphere had just begun to settle into a comfortable rhythm when another knock came at the door. Kimiko moved to answer it, not expecting anyone else. But as she opened the door, she stopped dead in her tracks, her eyes widening in surprise.
"Hinata?"
Standing at the entrance was Hinata Hyuga, looking hesitant but resolute. She held a small parcel in her hands, her eyes darting shyly up to meet Kimiko's gaze.
"I-I hope it's alright," Hinata stammered, her cheeks tinted with a light blush. "Kurenai-senpai…mentioned your dinner, and I thought it might be nice to bring a small gift. "
Kimiko blinked, then couldn't help but chuckle lightly, stepping aside to let Hinata in, giving her a hug as she went into range. "Of course, Hinata. Come in. You're more than welcome to join us."
As Hinata entered, she bowed deeply to Shinku and Kaori, murmuring polite greetings, before her gaze lingered briefly on Naruto. The boy was oblivious as always, but Sasuke's sharp glance flicked between the two, letting a quiet snort.
As dinner unfolded, Kimiko couldn't help but feel a quiet sense of pride at how seamlessly her family interacted with her team. Kaori, her mother, had taken an immediate liking to Sasuke, her gentle demeanor drawing him into an unusually engaged conversation about his training and interests. It was rare to see Sasuke relax, but Kaori's presence seemed to have a calming effect.
Shinku, on the other hand, was thoroughly entertained by Naruto's animated recounting of their mission. The young shinobi's exaggerated gestures and enthusiastic tone were met with Shinku's booming laughter, the two of them engrossed in a dynamic exchange. Naruto's version of events grew more elaborate with every retelling, and Shinku was clearly enjoying every moment.
Meanwhile, Kurenai and Kakashi engaged in a quieter but no less focused discussion, centered on the implications of their mission and its impact on the political situation in Kirigakure. Kurenai's expression was a mixture of curiosity and concern, while Kakashi's nonchalant tone belied the weight of the topic.
Kimiko, however, found herself in conversation with Hinata, who seemed nervous but genuinely happy to be included. Despite this, Kimiko's attention drifted, a mischievous thought creeping into her mind as her gaze flickered toward Naruto, who was still animatedly chatting with Shinku.
"Hey, Naruto," Kimiko said suddenly, cutting through the lively chatter. Her tone was casual, but there was a glint in her eyes that made Sasuke glance at her in mild suspicion.
Naruto, mid-gesture, paused and turned to her. "What's up, Kimiko-chan?"
Kimiko smiled sweetly, but her words were calculated. "Hinata would like to say something."
The table fell silent for a moment as all eyes turned to the girl in question. Hinata's own eyes widened in panic, her cheeks instantly flushing a deep red. Kimiko discreetly squeezed her hand under the table, offering silent reassurance.
"O-oh," Hinata stammered, clearly flustered.
"What's that, Hinata-chan?" Naruto asked loudly, his enthusiasm a stark contrast to Hinata's soft-spoken demeanor.
Hinata swallowed hard, her voice barely above a whisper. "That…was really cool of you, Naruto-kun. To…do an A-Class Mission…" Her words became a rushed blur as her courage faltered. "Ihopeyourealrightplease."
Naruto blinked, clearly processing her words, and then broke into a wide grin. "Heh, thanks, Hinata-chan! I'm totally fine! I mean, it was a little tough, but we're Team 7, y'know? We're awesome!"
Hinata's face turned an even deeper shade of red, but Kimiko noticed a faint smile tugging at her lips. She relaxed slightly, clearly relieved at Naruto's upbeat response.
Kimiko leaned back, a satisfied smirk playing on her lips. The evening had gone even better than she had hoped. Her family and her team were starting to feel like one. As conversations wound down, the goodbyes began. Her parents were the first to retreat for the night, offering warm smiles and quiet pride. Kurenai followed soon after, gently urging Hinata to prepare for their mission the next day. Hinata hesitated at the door, casting a shy glance back at Naruto before leaving with Ko Hyuga, who had patiently waited outside the entire time for his charge.
When only Team 7 remained, Kimiko enlisted their help to clean up.
"Man, why do we have to do this?!" Naruto groaned, scrubbing a plate with exaggerated annoyance. "We're your guests, right?"
"No," Kimiko replied serenely. "You're family. Family helps out."
That shut Naruto up, and the rest of the cleanup passed in relative peace, even with Kakashi pitching in. Once they were finished, Kimiko led them to the garden, the cool night air crisp against their skin as they looked up at the clear sky.
"Man, look at that," Naruto marveled, pointing at the glowing full moon. "It's so pretty. Your garden's really pretty too, Kimiko."
"It is," she replied automatically, though inwardly she grimaced. Knowing the moon housed a sealed, malevolent space goddess somewhat dampened the beauty of the sight.
"Thanks for the invite, Kimiko," Sasuke said quietly, surprising her. His tone was genuine, and though he still avoided looking directly at her, the sentiment carried weight. Kakashi remained silent, his gaze fixed on his team, a rare softness in his eye.
Kimiko's grip tightened briefly around a carnation her mother had planted, then she turned to her team, determination gleaming in her eyes. "Thank you, guys," she began, her voice steady but laced with emotion. "But…I want to start another team tradition."
"Oh?" Kakashi raised a brow, intrigued.
"Yes," Kimiko insisted. She looked at each of them in turn. "Naruto, you've grown so much stronger since we first became a team. A lot stronger. Sasuke, you were always strong, but now? You've awakened the Sharingan—something not everyone in your clan could do." She paused, her voice softening as her gaze turned inward. "And… I'm scared. Scared we'll forget what's important."
Even with all her knowledge of the future, Kimiko knew it wasn't set in stone. Haku and Zabuza surviving proved that much. She inhaled deeply and reached into her pocket, pulling out four squares of origami paper—orange, blue, white, and red. Holding them in her hands, she closed her eyes and willed her chakra to fold them. Her control had sharpened so much that the task felt second nature. The papers twisted and bent into delicate, vibrant flowers.
She handed the white flower to Kakashi, the orange one to Naruto, and the blue one to Sasuke. Holding the red flower tightly to her chest, she took another steadying breath.
"This is our new tradition," she said, her voice unwavering. "These flowers are a reminder: no one forgets each other. When anyone feels alone, they'll remember that our team is here to support them. And most importantly, we're not just a team—we're family."
For a moment, silence enveloped them. Then, Naruto's grin returned, bright and unguarded. "Heh, you're such a sap, Kimiko-chan," he teased, but he clutched the orange flower like it was the most precious thing in the world.
Sasuke stared at his blue flower for a long moment, his expression inscrutable. Finally, he tucked it into the folds of his shirt, nodding once. "Thanks," he muttered, almost inaudibly.
Kakashi, ever unreadable, turned the white flower in his fingers with care. His gaze lifted to Kimiko, and he offered her a rare, genuine smile.
Kimiko's heart swelled, warmth spreading through her chest. For all their quirks and struggles, this was her team—her family. And she'd do everything she could to make sure it stayed that way.