A Night of Reflection
Inari stood by the stream, his small frame trembling as he watched Sasuke train. The Uchiha was drenched in sweat and water, his hands crackling with lightning as he pushed himself to the limit. Blood trickled from the corner of his mouth, but he didn't stop. The sight reminded Inari of his father—the man the townspeople had called a hero.
"If he hadn't tried to be a hero, he'd still be alive," Inari thought bitterly. "If he'd just given up, if he'd been like everyone else…"
Tears streamed down Inari's face as he clenched his fists. "What kind of heroes are you? Kado's too powerful. You're just going to die like my dad did. Why even try?"
Sasuke paused, his cold eyes locking onto Inari. "Kid, go home and drink your milk. Stop crying like a baby."
Inari's anger flared. "Why are you even here? Why do you think you can beat Kado? You're just going to die for nothing!"
Sasuke's expression hardened. "I'll defeat him. I swear on the Uchiha name—I won't back down, and I won't lose. Strength isn't about being born powerful. It's about the will to keep going, no matter what. Kado's just another obstacle. I'll crush him."
He turned back to his training, his voice cutting through the night. "You're just a crybaby, wallowing in self-pity. If you want to change something, stop whining and do something about it."
Inari stood frozen, Sasuke's words hitting him like a slap. For the first time, he saw himself clearly—a boy who had given up, who had let fear and grief consume him. He wiped his tears, his gaze shifting to Sasuke, who continued to train despite his injuries.
Naruto, watching from a distance, smiled faintly. Sasuke had grown, not just in strength but in resolve. He turned and walked away, leaving the two to their moment.
Training and Reflection
Over the next few days, Team 7 trained rigorously. The construction of the Great Naruto Bridge progressed steadily, but the threat of Zabuza and Haku loomed large. Naruto, however, found moments of peace amidst the tension.
One afternoon, he ventured into the forest to practice his swordsmanship. After hours of intense training, he leaned against a tree, catching his breath. The sunlight filtered through the leaves, warming his face. For the first time in a long while, he felt free—no surveillance, no expectations. Just him and the open world.
As he drifted into a light sleep, a soft voice pulled him back. "You'll catch a cold if you sleep here."
Naruto's eyes snapped open, and he jumped to his feet, instantly alert. Standing before him was Haku, his expression gentle, his hands cold from gathering herbs.
"I'm sorry," Haku said, his voice calm. "I didn't mean to startle you."
Naruto relaxed, recognizing the familiar chakra. "It's fine. I shouldn't have fallen asleep out here. Thank you for waking me."
Haku smiled. "You're Uzumaki Naruto, right? I'm Haku."
Naruto returned the smile. "Nice to meet you, Haku. What brings you here?"
"I'm gathering herbs. Someone important to me is injured."
Naruto's eyes softened. "Let me help you."
Haku hesitated but eventually nodded. As they worked together, Naruto couldn't help but notice Haku's kindness. Despite being on opposing sides, Haku radiated a warmth that was rare among ninja.
"Why do you follow Zabuza?" Naruto asked as they collected herbs.
Haku's expression grew somber. "He saved me when I had nothing. I owe him my life. All I can do is stay by his side and be the tool he needs."
Naruto frowned. "Even if it costs you your life?"
Haku's smile was bittersweet. "Yes. As long as I'm alive, I'll protect him."
As they finished gathering the herbs, Naruto watched Haku closely. "If you could start over, would you choose a different path?"
Haku paused, his gaze distant. "Maybe. But I think I'll be dead before that happens."