Chapter 5: The Rise of A Fallen Country

(6 Months later)

Team 7 faced a series of trials and triumphs as they navigate through a variety of C-ranked missions. With their skills and abilities steadily improving, they begin to take on more challenging assignments that have been upgraded to B-ranked missions. (Sasuke is now Anbu Captain level because of Kakashis and Narutos training) he now has mastery over his Lightning Affinity and has made many variations of the Chidori (Yall already know what they are no need to explain), Sasuke is now trying to make an lightning cloak which can boost his speed and agility, his speed is now 1 Tailed Bijuu Level, and he has implemented Lightning to his Kenjutsu (Read the previous chapter for the name of it), and now has mastery over his sensing abilities and he has grown to the height of 5 foot 10), (Sakura on the other hand is now High Jonin level because of training from Naruto and Kakashi, she is like another Tsunade but weaker, she is now known in the village as one of the best medics, she now has mastery over her sensing abilities and she is now 5 foot 6), (Kakashi who didnt want to be left behind by his students started to train with Naruto and is now Sanin Level), (Finally, for Naruto he his now 4 tailed Bijuu level because of his intense training with Kurama, he has now mastered up to 5 tails and is working on 6 tails, he has also made many variations of the Rasengan and has implemented elements inside of the Rasengan, He can now fully read minds, he can now use Fox Sage mode due to Kurama giving Naruto the Fox Scroll contract), and he also uses Kuramas influence as base form so his eyes are always red with slits, He is now 6 foot 2. Now back to the story

As Team 7 made their way towards the Hokage tower, their footsteps echoing through the bustling streets of Konoha, they noticed a familiar sight. The delicious aroma of ramen wafted through the air, leading their gaze towards Ichiraku Ramen, where Team 8 was seated, enjoying their meal.

Naruto's eyes lit up with excitement. "Hey, guys! Look, it's Team 8! Let's go say hi!"

Sakura and Sasuke exchanged glances and followed Naruto towards the ramen shop. As they approached, they saw Hinata, Kiba, and Shino sitting at a table, their bowls of steaming ramen in front of them.

Naruto greeted them with a wide grin. "Hey, Team 8! Fancy seeing you here. Mind if we join you?"

Hinata blushed and smiled shyly. "N-Naruto-kun, of course, you can join us. It's nice to see you all."

Kiba, with a mouthful of noodles, grinned mischievously. "Hey, Naruto! I heard you've been hogging all the C-ranked missions lately. Leave some for the rest of us, will ya?"

Naruto scratched the back of his head, chuckling. "Well, you know me, Kiba. Gotta keep up the pace and become the greatest Hokage ever!"

Sasuke, leaning against the counter, spoke up. "So, what brings Team 8 to Ichiraku? Celebrating a successful mission?"

Shino, his voice calm and composed, replied. "Actually, we just finished a tracking mission. The target proved to be quite elusive, but we managed to apprehend them eventually."

Sakura, her curiosity piqued, leaned forward. "Oh, that sounds interesting. Any tips for tracking elusive targets?"

Hinata, her eyes sparkling with determination, chimed in. "It's all about observation and patience. We learned a lot from Sensei."

Kiba nodded in agreement. "Yeah, Shino's tracking skills are top-notch. He's our secret weapon."

Amidst the laughter and friendly banter, Naruto couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie with Team 8. They were all comrades, striving to become stronger and protect their village.

After a while, their conversation gradually shifted towards their upcoming missions, as they shared stories and exchanged advice. It was a moment of connection and unity, reminding them of the bonds they shared as shinobi of Konoha.

As Team 7 finished eating, they bid farewell to Team 8 and made their way to the Hokage tower, energized and ready to tackle their own mission.

*When Team 7 arrived at the Hokage tower*

Kakashi stood tall, his silver hair glinting under the light as he addressed the Hokage. "Hokage-sama, Team 7 is ready to take on another mission."

Hiruzen, with a thoughtful expression on his aged face, nodded. He reached for a scroll on his desk and unrolled it, scanning through the contents. "Ah, yes. I have just the mission for you, Team 7."

Curiosity sparkled in Naruto's eyes as he leaned forward. "What is it, Hokage-sama? Where are we going this time?"

Hiruzen cleared his throat before reading aloud. "You will be tasked with escorting a bridge builder to the Land of Waves and ensuring his safety for a period of two months. The mission rank is C."

Sakura's brow furrowed slightly. "Land of Waves? Isn't that the country with a troubled past?"

Hiruzen nodded solemnly. "Indeed, Sakura. The Land of Waves has faced many hardships, and this bridge construction is a symbol of hope and progress for their people. Your mission is crucial in securing the safety of the builder and ensuring the completion of the bridge."

Sasuke, his voice laced with determination, spoke up. "We won't let anything happen to the bridge builder, Hokage-sama. We'll fulfill this mission with utmost dedication."

Kakashi, his visible eye crinkling in a smile, added, "Team 7 is prepared to face any challenges that come our way. We'll protect the bridge builder and see this mission through."

Hiruzen's gaze softened as he looked at his young shinobi. "I have complete faith in all of you. The Land of Waves' future lies in your hands. Remember to work together and rely on each other's strengths."

Naruto's determined expression mirrored the sentiment of the team. "Don't worry, Hokage-sama. We'll make you proud and bring back success!"

The Hokage nodded, his voice filled with pride. "I believe in you, Team 7. May this mission be a stepping stone to your growth as shinobi.

Hiruzen: Now its time for you guys to meet your client

Hiruzen: ANBU! bring in the client for Team 7s mission

Anbu 1 and 2: Yes Hokage-sama!

(As they walked out of the door)

Sakura: (Curiously) I wonder how our client looks

Naruto and Sasuke: It does not matter as long as we complete our mission

Sakura: (Embarrassed) Right..

*Ten minutes later*

The door to the Hokage's office swung open, and two ANBU members entered, flanking a figure. It was Tazuna, the renowned bridge builder himself, standing before Team 7 without a cloak or hood.

Hiruzen gestured towards Team 7. "This is Team 7, your escort for the mission to the Land of Waves."

Naruto, ever the eager one, couldn't help but speak up. "Nice to meet you! We'll make sure to protect you during the mission."

Tazuna grinned, his eyes slightly bloodshot. "Heh, good to meet you too, kids. I've heard great things about your skills."

Sakura, trying to maintain professionalism, spoke up. "Tazuna-san, we're here to ensure your safety during the mission. It's crucial that we work together and stay focused."

Tazuna waved her off dismissively. "Don't worry, little lady. I've been through worse than a few bandits. I know how to handle myself."

Sasuke, his voice firm, added, "We understand your experience, Tazuna-san. However, it's important that we approach this mission with utmost seriousness."

Tazuna's grin faded slightly, his gaze becoming more focused. "You're right, young man. I may have had a few drinks, but I know the importance of this mission. I won't let anything jeopardize the completion of the bridge."

With that, Tazuna straightened his posture, his determination shining through. Team 7, though initially taken aback by Tazuna's lack of a cloak and his slightly intoxicated state, recognized his underlying resolve to see the mission through.

Together, Team 7 and Tazuna left the Hokage's office, ready to face the challenges that awaited them on their mission to the Land of Waves. United by a common purpose, they set out to protect Tazuna and the dreams of an entire nation, with the hope that Tazuna's determination would outweigh any effects of his previous indulgence.

*1 day later*

As Team 7 were walking with Tazuna to The Land Of Wave (In triangle formation), they noticed a small water puddle on the ground.

Naruto: *Looks at Sasuke*

Sasuke: *Nods*

Sasuke: Chidori: Senbon! , shooting multiple lightning projectiles at the pond 

The Demon brothers that were in the pond didnt react fast enough and got shocked by Sasukes Jutsu

The Demon Brothers: *Gets shocked* AAAAAAAAAAAGH-

1 Demon Brother died and 1 is paralyzed

Naruto: *Reads the Demon Brothers mind* (His mind reading is really advanced he can read the minds of dead bodies and could also recover past memories of that person, and all the other main stuff)

Naruto: It seems Gato is sending Missing Nin to take you out Tazuna

Tazuna: (Sweat Drops) it seems so.... wait how did you know that Gato was after me

Naruto: (Confidently) Its a secret

Kakashi: *Slices the remaining Demon Brother throat and seals him into a scroll*

(None of them are dumb so they know Kakashi is doing that for the bounty)

Kakashi: We knew the Wave Country was being raided by bandits and hooligans but we didnt know missing nin are being sent after you especially by Gato an Famous and Rich business, Tazuna do you mind explaining...

Tazuna: Well since you know most of m countries situation, all there is to it is that Gato is trying to kill me because of my Bridge building skills-

Naruto: Meaning that without you everyone would lose there morale and wouldnt want to build the bridge anymore, Gato is also trying to stop The Wave Country from getting easy Access to trade and help from other countries.

Tazuna: (Looks at Naruto) well there goes my sob story...

Kakashi: Tazuna this is a breach of contract, you hid the actual mission rank from us, this mission could turn into an A ranked mission depending who is sent after you next, Gato will send someone stronger since Chunin couldnt kill you, we can cancel this mission at anytime we want to now

Team 7 stood before Kakashi, their determination evident in their expressions. Naruto spoke up first, his voice filled with conviction.

"Naruto: Hold on, Kakashi-sensei. I believe we should help them. We can't just leave innocent people to suffer."

Sasuke and Sakura nodded in agreement, their voices joining Naruto's in unison.

"Sasuke and Sakura: Yeah! What Naruto said. We have the strength to make a difference."

Kakashi let out a sigh, his visible eye crinkling in resignation. He knew he couldn't deny his team's determination when they stood together so firmly.

"Kakashi: Fine, we will continue this mission. But make no mistake, once this is over, you will pay the correct amount of cash for our services."

Tazuna's face lit up with relief, grateful that Team 7 had chosen to stand up for what was right.

"Tazuna: Thank you, Team 7. Your compassion and strength give me hope."

With their decision made, Team 7 and Tazuna continued their journey, their resolve stronger than ever. They knew that challenges lay ahead, but their unity and determination would carry them through.

(3 Days Later After Team 7 and Tazuna made it to Wave)

(As they were walking they all sensed killing intent in the air and heard an Sword swooshing in the Air)

Team 7, along with Tazuna, dropped down to the ground, their instincts kicking in. Sakura, fueled by her protective nature, swiftly tackled Tazuna to shield him from any potential danger.

Sakura: (worried) Tazuna-san, stay down! We need to assess the situation.

As they all stood back up, their eyes were drawn to a figure standing on a sword lodged in a nearby tree. The figure exuded an aura of menace and power (Only Sakura was Affected because she never experienced such killing intent).

Naruto: (surprised)

Sasuke's eyes narrowed, recognizing the figure before them.

Sasuke: (in a low voice) It's Zabuza of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist.

Sakura's voice trembled with a mix of fear and determination.

Sakura: (whispering) Zabuza is a dangerous opponent. We must be careful and stay focused.

Kakashi, his Sharingan activated and his gaze locked on Zabuza, spoke with a calm, yet serious tone.

Kakashi: (focused) Team 7, stay alert. Zabuza is a formidable adversary. We need to work together and find a way to defeat him.

Tazuna, though visibly shaken, found strength in Team 7's resolve.

Tazuna: (nervously) I never expected to encounter someone like Zabuza. But I have faith in all of you. Let's do whatever it takes to protect the Land of Waves.

As the tension mounted, Team 7 prepared themselves for the impending battle against Zabuza, knowing that their teamwork and determination would be tested like never before.

As the battle started 

Sasuke: *Immediately pulls his sword out and Body Flickers Behind Zabuza slashing him in half*

And then water splashes everywhere

Sasuke (Mind): A water clone huh

Zabuza: *Appears behind Sasuke and tries to do an Horizontal Slash*

As Zabuza was about to slash Sasuke his head was blown off by one of Sakuras Chakra induced Kunai's

Zabuza splashes into water again 

Sakura: Damn It another Water Clone

Zabuza: *Appears infront of Sakura* *He tries an Vertical Slash* 

As Zabuza attempted to slash Sakura, he noticed that he was flipped upside down, (His body was slashed in half by Naruto)

Zabuza ONCE AGAIN TURNS INTO WATER

Naruto: (Sweat drops) He really likes to use that Jutsu huh

As the real Zabuza came from underwater and was about to perform the Hidden Mist Technique

Naruto: Gravity Style: Attraction (I have stated this KEKKEI TOTA in a previous chapter please go read those chapters if you are confused) (This move is like Pains Universal pull but 1000x more stronger)

As Zabuza was getting pulled towards Naruto Kakashi did his Lightning Blade piercing Zabuzas Heart

Kakashi: LIGHTNING BLADE *Pierces Zabuzas Heart*

(With Haku)

As Haku was sitting in the tree waiting for the perfect moment, he noticed that he started to fall down

Haku: When did I- (Hakus vision went black)

(With Sasuke) 

As Naruto used his Gravity Style, Sasuke sensed another presence within the trees, he didnt want any one of Gatos men to escape with information so he Body Flickered over there with his sword out

*SWOOOOOOSH* 

As soon as Sasuke saw Haku he sliced him in half

(With Naruto, Kakashi, and Zabuza)

Zabuza: *While his heart is pierced by Kakshis Lighting Blade he looked over to where Haku was and saw Hakus body sliced in half*

Zabuza: Hak.....U- *Dies*

Kakashi: *Pulls his hand out of Zabuza and seals him inside of an scroll*

Kakashi: *Walks over to Haku and seals him inside of an scroll also*

Sakura: (catching her breath) We did it. Zabuza and I guess his Teammate are no longer a threat.

Tazuna, who had been watching the battle unfold, approached the team with gratitude in his eyes.

Tazuna: (grateful) Thank you, Team 7. You've saved the Land of Waves from a terrible fate. Let's head to my house. We have much to discuss.

Team 7, their spirits lifted by there battle with Zabuza and I guess Haku, walked towards Tazuna's house. They knew that their journey was far from over, but in that moment, they basked in the satisfaction of a job well done.

*2 weeks later* 

During this period Team 7 helped out the wave country by raiding nearby bandit camps and bringing back supplies. Back to the story

As Tazuna and his men continued their work on the bridge, Team 7 stood on guard, keeping a watchful eye for any potential threats. Sakura, fulfilling her duty to protect Inari and Tsunami, remained by their side.

Suddenly, the sound of clapping echoed through the air, catching everyone's attention. Gato, the corrupt businessman, emerged from the shadows with a sinister smirk on his face.

Gato: (clapping sarcastically) Bravo! Bravo! It seems you've taken out those two expensive hooligans I hired to get rid of you, Tazuna.

Tazuna's face hardened, his voice laced with defiance as he faced Gato.

Tazuna: Gato, you can't intimidate us anymore. We won't let you ruin the dreams of the people of the Land of Waves.

Naruto stepped forward, his determination shining brightly.

Naruto: You think you can just walk in here and threaten innocent people? We won't stand for it!

Sasuke's eyes narrowed, his voice filled with a quiet rage.

Sasuke: Gato, your reign of greed ends here. We won't let you harm anyone else.

Kakashi, his gaze focused on Gato, spoke with a calm yet firm tone.

Kakashi: Gato, you've crossed the line. We won't allow you to continue exploiting the people of this land.

Gato chuckled smugly, his voice dripping with arrogance.

Gato: Oh, how noble of you all. But do you really think you stand a chance against me? I have power, money, and influence. You're nothing compared to me.

Tazuna's voice resonated with determination and defiance.

Tazuna: It's not about power or money, Gato. It's about doing what's right. And we'll fight with everything we have to protect the Land of Waves.

With tensions rising, Team 7 and Tazuna prepared to face off against Gato and his forces, ready to defend the dreams and hopes of the people they had come to care for.

As Naruto and Sasuke decided to quickly finish the battle they unleashed their combination technique, the air crackled with energy. Naruto's mouth erupted with water, creating a dome that engulfed Gato and his men. Meanwhile, Sasuke summoned the power of his Chidori technique, channeling a devastating force known as Kirin.

Naruto and Sasuke: Ninja Art: Shivering Shock!

The dome of water crackled with electricity as Kirin descended upon it, unleashing a million volts of raw power. In an instant, Gato and his men were consumed by the overwhelming force, reduced to mere ashes.

The team stood in awe, their breaths caught in their throats as they witnessed the aftermath of their combined attack. Silence filled the air, broken only by the crackling of residual electricity.

Naruto, his voice filled with a mix of awe and excitement, spoke first.

Naruto: (breathless) Did you see that? We did it, Sasuke! We took them down!

Sasuke, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction, nodded in agreement.

Sasuke: (grinning) Yeah, Naruto. Our training paid off. That was incredible.

Kakashi, his gaze filled with pride, stepped forward to address his victorious team.

Kakashi: (impressed) Excellent work, Naruto and Sasuke. That was an incredible display of teamwork and skill. You've proven once again why you're an extraordinary team.

Tazuna, overwhelmed by the outcome, approached the team with gratitude in his eyes.

Tazuna: (grateful) Team 7, you've saved us once again. The Land of Waves is forever in your debt.

Together, Team 7 and Tazuna stood amidst the remnants of their victory, the weight of their accomplishment settling upon them. They had faced adversity, but their unwavering spirit and unity had prevailed.

(Meanwhile with Sakura) 

As Sakura was sitting down reading a book she heard a noise outside

She knew that it was time to spring into action so she used her sensory abilities to pinpoint the exact location of the enemies and pulled a ninja wire to get her trap started 

(Bandits POV)

As they were breaking into Tazunas house as soon as they broke open the door there heads flew straight off 

Sakura (POV) 

As soon as she heard a thump on the ground she went to clean the bodies up

(2 months later after Tazuna and his crew finished making the bridge)

Two months had passed since Tazuna and his crew had completed the construction of the bridge. The Land of Waves had undergone a remarkable transformation, and the atmosphere was filled with a sense of hope and gratitude.

Team 7 stood at the edge of the bridge, gazing at the finished product with a mixture of pride and fulfillment. The sound of rushing water beneath them was a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Naruto: (grinning) Look at that! We did it! The Bridge is finally completed!

Sakura, her voice filled with admiration, joined in Naruto's excitement.

Sakura: (joyfully) It's amazing to see how far we've come, isn't it? This bridge will bring prosperity and connection to the Land of Waves.

Sasuke, though less expressive, couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment.

Sasuke: (softly) This bridge represents more than just bricks and mortar. It symbolizes the strength and resilience of the Land of Waves.

Kakashi, his gaze fixed on the bridge, spoke with a hint of nostalgia.

Kakashi: (reflectively) It feels like just yesterday we were battling against Zabuza. Look how far we've come since then.

Tazuna approached the team, his eyes filled with gratitude and respect.

Tazuna: (grateful) Team 7, you've not only saved our land but also brought hope to its people. The Great Naruto Bridge stands as a testament to your bravery and determination.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow upon the bridge, the team shared a moment of quiet reflection. They had faced numerous challenges and grown stronger together.

Naruto: (determined) This is just the beginning. There are still many more missions and adventures ahead of us!

Sakura: (smiling) That's right. We'll continue to protect and make a difference wherever we go.

With their spirits high and their bond unbreakable, Team 7 stood side by side, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them in the future. The completion of the Great Naruto Bridge marked the start of a new chapter in their journey.

As Team 7 made their way back to the village, Tazuna, his grandson Inari, and the villagers gathered to discuss the naming of the bridge. They understood the importance of involving the community in this decision, as the bridge would be a symbol of their resilience and dreams.

Tazuna: (addressing the villagers) My fellow villagers, we have come a long way in our journey to build this bridge. Now, it's time to decide on its name. I want to hear your suggestions.

The villagers exchanged excited whispers, eager to contribute their ideas.

Villager 1: (enthusiastically) How about the "Wave's Embrace Bridge"? It represents the unity of our people and the way this bridge will embrace our hopes for a better future.

Villager 2: (thoughtfully) I propose the name "Harmony Bridge." It signifies the harmony we have achieved through our collective efforts and the harmony this bridge will bring to our lives.

Inari, Tazuna's grandson, stepped forward, his voice filled with determination.

Inari: (passionately) Let's call it the "Great Naruto Bridge." It represents the incredible journey we've been on, led by our courageous hero, Naruto Uzumaki.

The suggestion resonated with the villagers, and a murmur of agreement spread through the crowd.

Tazuna listened attentively to the suggestions, his heart swelling with pride for his village.

Tazuna: (grateful) These are all wonderful ideas. The "Wave's Embrace Bridge" and "Harmony Bridge" capture the spirit of our journey. However, the suggestion to name it the "Great Naruto Bridge" holds a special significance. Naruto Uzumaki has been an inspiration to us all, and this bridge stands as a testament to his bravery and determination. Let's cast our votes and decide together.

The villagers cast their votes, each one eager to contribute to the naming of the bridge. After a brief moment, Tazuna tallied the results.

Tazuna: (announcing) The people have spoken. By popular vote, we shall name this bridge the "Great Naruto Bridge."

The crowd erupted in cheers and applause, their voices echoing across the land.

*1 Day Later*

As Team 7 made their way back to the village, the atmosphere was filled with a mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. They had successfully completed their mission, and the Great Naruto Bridge now stood as a testament to their hard work and determination.

Upon their arrival, Kakashi approached the team with a calm yet authoritative demeanor.

Kakashi: (looking at Team 7) Well done, Team 7. You've accomplished your mission admirably. I have an important announcement to make.

Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke exchanged curious glances, wondering what Kakashi had in store for them.

Kakashi: (with a slight smile) Meet me at the training grounds tomorrow morning. There's something I need to discuss with all of you.

The team nodded in acknowledgment, their curiosity piqued. They knew that when Kakashi had something to say, it was usually significant.

The next day, Team 7 gathered at the training grounds, anticipation filling the air. Kakashi arrived, his single visible eye crinkling with a smile.

Kakashi: (addressing Team 7) I have nominated all of you to participate in the upcoming Chunin Exams.

Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke exchanged surprised glances, their excitement building.

Naruto: (excitedly) The Chunin Exams? That's amazing, Kakashi-sensei!

Sakura: (grinning) This is a great opportunity for us to showcase our skills and grow even stronger.

Sasuke, his voice filled with determination, nodded in agreement.

Sasuke: (focused) I'm ready to prove myself and take on any challenge that comes our way.

Kakashi: (proudly) I have faith in all of you. The Chunin Exams will test your abilities and push you to your limits. But remember, it's not just about winning. It's about learning, growing, and gaining valuable experience.

Kakashi paused for a moment, his gaze shifting between his eager students.

Kakashi: (smiling) Before the exams begin, you have a two-week break to rest, train, and prepare yourselves. Use this time wisely. Train hard, but also take care of yourselves.

Naruto, Sakura, and Sasuke exchanged determined looks, ready to make the most of their break and prove themselves in the upcoming Chunin Exams.

With renewed determination, Team 7 dispersed, each member eager to embark on their individual training journeys during the break. The Chunin Exams awaited them, and they were determined to give it their all.