Naruto: One Eye Tenseigan

The air in the Hokage's office was thick with tension. The quiet crackle of burning tobacco accompanied the contemplative silence as Hiruzen Sarutobi, the Third Hokage, exhaled a plume of smoke from his long pipe. Before him lay a report, its contents grim enough to deepen the lines etched across his face.

One report in particular commanded his attention: the death of Kumade Toriichi, a tokubetsu jonin known for his reconnaissance expertise and sensory skills. Kumade had been sent to gather intelligence near the Land of Waves, a mission that had grown increasingly precarious with the resurgence of rogue shinobi activity.

Kumade Toriichi had been found dead near the Land of Waves. Once a trusted ally in Konoha's intelligence network, Kumade's unexpected demise raised more than just suspicion—it was a call to action. The details of the investigation pointed toward the involvement of an S-Rank missing-nin from Kirigakure.

Land of Waves—a vital trade nexus often attracting the attention of rogue shinobi and mercenaries. The death of Kumade so close to its borders hinted at the resurgence of dangerous forces.

Among these threats was Zabuza Momochi, an infamous S-Rank missing-nin of Kirigakure, whose name evoked fear among shinobi worldwide.

Zabuza was no ordinary rogue. A former member of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist, his rebellion against the Mizukage had cemented his infamy. He had attempted to overthrow Yagura, the Fourth Mizukage, who was not only a ruthless leader but also the jinchūriki of the Three-Tails. That Zabuza had survived such a bold insurrection was a testament to his unparalleled skill. Not only had he escaped from the Mizukage's wrath, but he had also eluded Kirigakure's relentless ANBU hunters, disappearing into the shadows like a specter.

Hiruzen frowned deeply, the lines on his weathered face deepening as he exhaled a plume of smoke. The implications of Zabuza's presence near the Land of Waves were troubling enough, but the stakes rose exponentially when considering who might cross his path.

Two days prior, Team 7 had departed Konoha on what had been classified as a C-rank mission to escort a bridge builder named Tazuna. But with Zabuza confirmed in the area, the mission's rank had effectively escalated to A-rank, if not higher.

Hiruzen leaned back in his chair, his mind turning to Kakashi Hatake, the leader of Team 7. Kakashi's reputation as a skilled shinobi was well-deserved. He was a veteran of the Third Shinobi War, a former ANBU captain, and the wielder of the Sharingan—an advantage that placed him a cut above most jonin. But even with all his accolades, Kakashi lacked experience against active S-Rank threats like Zabuza.

The stakes were further compounded by the presence of two key individuals on Team 7: Naruto Uzumaki and Sasuke Uchiha.

Naruto, the Kyūbi jinchūriki, carried within him both immense power and immense danger. The child's safety was paramount, not only for Konoha but for the delicate balance of the shinobi world.

Sasuke, the last surviving Uchiha under Konoha's protection, was no less significant. Hiruzen's thoughts darkened as he considered the weight of Sasuke's existence. His survival wasn't just a matter of legacy—it was a matter of trust. Itachi Uchiha, in his final act of loyalty to Konoha, had brokered a silent deal: Sasuke's safety in exchange for Itachi's role as a double agent within the Akatsuki.

Hiruzen's grip tightened on his pipe as the grim possibilities unfolded in his mind. If Zabuza were to eliminate Kakashi or exploit Team 7's inexperience, the consequences would be catastrophic. Sasuke could fall into enemy hands, and Naruto's life would be in jeopardy. Such an outcome was unacceptable.

The old Hokage took a deep breath, his pipe glowing faintly as he exhaled another plume of smoke. It was clear that Kakashi couldn't face Zabuza alone, not with the burden of protecting his team and the bridge builder. Team 7 needed reinforcement—someone who could shift the balance and ensure the mission's success.

One name surfaced in his mind, clear and resolute: Sayuri Koizumi.

For over a decade, Sayuri's name had faded into obscurity, her presence hidden from the public eye. Yet, within the inner circles of Konoha's leadership, her reputation remained unchallenged. 

Sayuri's name had faded from public discourse, her presence as quiet as the shadows in which she thrived. Yet, her capabilities as a kunoichi were unquestionable. Sayuri had faced—and defeated—many S-Rank adversaries, her record a silent testament to her strength. Hiruzen knew better than anyone that her abilities rivaled even those of the legendary Sannin.

Deploying Sayuri came with risks. Her reemergence could draw attention, particularly from old enemies and those who might seek to exploit her existence and the mission. But protecting Naruto and Sasuke took precedence over discretion. For Hiruzen, there was no higher priority than ensuring their safety, even if it meant unsealing a hidden blade.

The Third Hokage exhaled deeply, the tendrils of smoke curling like the weight of his decision. He reached for a blank scroll and began drafting an order.

—

Sayuri Koizumi stood in the training grounds with her team, the afternoon light casting long shadows across the clearing. The sharp crack of fists meeting targets echoed as Mai Kisaragi sparred with Tomaru Minakura, their movements quick and precise under Sayuri's watchful eye.

An ANBU courier appeared in a blur of motion, kneeling as he handed Sayuri a sealed scroll. She broke the seal and scanned its contents, her emerald eyes narrowing as she read.

"Change of plans," she announced, her voice steady but firm. "We've been assigned a new mission. Effective immediately, we're to provide backup to Team 7 near the Land of Waves."

Mina Harada paused mid-motion, adjusting her glasses as she stepped forward. "Team 7? That's Kakashi Hatake's team, isn't it?"

Sayuri nodded. "Yes. They've encountered complications—Zabuza Momochi has been confirmed in the area."

Mai froze, the name unfamiliar but carrying a weight that silenced her usual exuberance. "Who?" she asked hesitantly.

Mina paused mid-motion, her fingers tightening on her wire strings. "Zabuza…" she murmured, her analytical mind racing. "The Demon of the Hidden Mist?"

Sayuri nodded. "An S-Rank missing-nin and former member of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist. He's a master of silent killing and kenjutsu."

Mai's golden eyes widened. "And Kakashi can't handle him?"

"Kakashi can handle Zabuza," Sayuri replied evenly. "But he has three genin and a civilian to protect. That makes him vulnerable. Our job is to ensure their safety and eliminate any threats."

Sayuri's expression softened briefly. "Naruto and Sasuke are vital to Konoha. For reasons you don't need to know, their lives are more important than this mission. Failure is not an option."

---

The tension in the air was suffocating. The serene beauty of the Land of Waves was a cruel contrast to the battlefield drenched in blood and desperation. The sharp scent of iron mingled with the tang of sweat, the once tranquil waters now reflecting the chaos onshore.

Kakashi Hatake knelt on the ground, his breath labored, his arms trembling as he maintained his stance. Blood seeped through the two jagged slash wounds across his chest, staining the earth beneath him, it was clear—his stamina was nearly spent.

Naruto Uzumaki stood nearby, clutching the stump of his right arm, his face pale but his eyes blazing with defiance. Blood dripped steadily from his wound, pooling at his feet. He gritted his teeth against the pain, his mind racing with thoughts of his team.

Sasuke Uchiha lay motionless on the ground, his body riddled with bruises and lacerations. His unconscious form was a stark reminder of the brutal power they faced.

In front of them all stood Sakura Haruno, her legs trembling as she held her position before Tazuna. Her kunai quivered in her hand, betraying her fear, but she refused to falter. The bridge builder behind her cowered, clutching his tools tightly as if they could offer protection.

Opposite them loomed Zabuza Momochi, The Demon of the Hidden Mist. His body bore the scars of the fierce battle—a testament to Team 7's desperate attempts to fend him off. Kunai and shuriken protruded from his arms and torso, blood oozing from the numerous wounds. His left arm hung limp, rendered useless by a kunai lodged deep in the muscle. Yet, his grip on the massive Kubikiribōchō remained firm.

The bandages around his mouth were torn, revealing a feral grin stained with blood. He exuded an aura of relentless menace, his towering frame a shadow over the wounded Team 7.

"You've fought well," Zabuza rasped, his voice hoarse but laced with cruel satisfaction. "But this is the end for you."

The blade began its deadly arc toward Kakashi, cutting through the tense air like a guillotine.

And then, a sharp metallic clang shattered the silence.

The massive Kubikiribōchō stopped mid-swing, intercepted by a chain that gleamed in the dim light. The force of the impact sent a shockwave rippling through the ground, the earth trembling beneath the weight of their clash.

Zabuza's eyes narrowed as his weapon recoiled slightly. "What—?"

From the treeline emerged a figure, her presence like a cold wind slicing through the oppressive heat of battle. Sayuri Koizumi moved with the calculated grace of a predator, her emerald eyes fixed on Zabuza with icy precision. Her auburn hair, tied in a loose braid, swayed slightly with her steps, and the faint glint of her scimitar reflected the fading sunlight. The chain attached to its hilt coiled around her arm like a living thing, poised and ready.

Kakashi's eye widened slightly, though he said nothing, his body too drained to question the sudden reinforcement.

"Zabuza Momochi," Sayuri said, her voice calm and measured, carrying across the battlefield with an authority that demanded attention. "Your rampage ends here."

Zabuza's lips twisted into a snarl. "Another one? What's this—Konoha's cleanup crew?" His tone was mocking, but his gaze was wary, his instincts warning him of the danger standing before him.

Sayuri stopped a few paces away, her stance relaxed but deliberate, her scimitar angled low at her side. "Leave now," she said evenly. "You're in no condition to fight."

Zabuza barked a harsh laugh, the sound grating against the still air. "And you think you can stop me? Don't make me laugh."

"Then I'll make this quick," Sayuri replied coldly, her emerald eyes narrowing.

—

The sun hung low on the horizon, casting long shadows across the dense forest as Team 2 pressed on toward the Land of Waves. The urgency of their mission demanded a grueling pace, and for two days, they had moved relentlessly—running through the night, pausing only briefly for quick meals and water. The air was heavy with tension, each step carrying the weight of what lay ahead.

Sayuri Koizumi led the team, her movements fluid and deliberate as she kept her senses sharp, scanning for potential threats. Behind her, Mai Kisaragi pushed forward with gritted teeth, her energy flagging but her determination unwavering. Mina Harada trailed further back, her breaths coming in sharp, labored gasps as sweat clung to her pale skin.

"Wait," Mina panted, her legs trembling as she stumbled to a halt. She leaned heavily against a tree, her hands gripping the rough bark for support. "I… I need a moment."

Mai skidded to a stop, turning back with a mixture of concern and irritation. "Mina, come on! We don't have time to rest. We're already behind!"

Sayuri stopped as well, her sharp emerald gaze settling on Mina. She walked back to her, her expression calm but assessing. "Mina," she said evenly, "what's wrong?"

Mina adjusted her glasses, her hands shaking slightly as she wiped at her sweat-drenched forehead. "I'm sorry, Sensei. I just… I can't keep up. Not at this pace."

Sayuri studied her for a moment before nodding slightly. She wasn't surprised. Mina was a newly graduated genin, and unlike Mai, who had focused heavily on physical training, Mina had spent most of her time developing her analytical skills and chakra control. Her stamina was average at best for someone of her rank, and the unrelenting pace had pushed her body to its limit.

Mai frowned, planting her hands on her hips. "She's been slacking on physical training, that's what's wrong."

"That's not entirely fair," Sayuri interjected, her tone neutral. "Mina's abilities are different from yours, Mai. She's an analyst, not a brawler."

Mina nodded weakly, still catching her breath. "I focused more on chakra control and techniques. Long-distance running wasn't exactly part of my routine."

Tomaru Minakura, who had been silent until now, leaned casually against a tree, his sharp gaze fixed on Sayuri. "What's the plan, Sensei?" he asked, his voice calm but pointed.

Sayuri exhaled softly, crossing her arms as she weighed their options. Mai, despite her boundless energy and hotheaded nature, was beginning to show signs of strain. Her movements were slightly less coordinated, and her breathing had grown heavier over the last few hours. If they continued like this, both Mai and Mina would collapse before they even reached their destination.

"We can't afford delays," Sayuri said, her tone firm but measured. "Team 7 is facing an S-Rank threat. If we don't get there in time, the consequences could be catastrophic."

Mai straightened, wiping sweat from her brow. "Then let's keep moving. We can rest once we're there."

Mina shook her head, her voice quieter but no less resolute. "I'll just slow you down. If I keep pushing like this, I'll collapse. I'll be more of a liability than a help."

Tomaru glanced at Mina, then turned to Sayuri, his expression unreadable. "I'll stay with them," he said simply.

Sayuri arched an eyebrow, her gaze sharpening. "Explain."

"Mai and Mina need time to recover," Tomaru said, his voice steady. "If we keep forcing them to move, we'll lose them before the real fight even starts. I can stay behind, make sure they're safe, and catch up once they've rested. You're fast enough to go ahead and handle Zabuza on your own."

Mai bristled, her pride stinging at the suggestion. "Hey, I don't need babysitting!"

"You're exhausted," Tomaru said bluntly, his dark eyes locking onto hers. "Admit it."

Mai opened her mouth to argue but faltered. She knew he was right. Her legs felt like lead, and her breath came in short bursts. Even so, her stubbornness refused to let her fully concede.

Sayuri considered Tomaru's words carefully. His logic was sound—forcing Mai and Mina to continue in their current state would only weaken the team further. And with her swift release, she could reach the Land of Waves well ahead of them, ensuring that Team 7 received immediate backup.

She turned to Mina, her voice softening slightly. "How long do you need to recover?"

Mina adjusted her glasses, her sharp mind working through the calculations. "A few hours of rest should be enough to regain my stamina. Mai will need the same."

Mai sighed heavily, crossing her arms. "Fine. But only because we can't afford to mess this up."

Sayuri nodded, her decision made. She turned to Tomaru, her expression serious. "Keep them safe. Once they're ready, move quickly to catch up."

Tomaru inclined his head, his tone calm and assured. "Understood."

Sayuri's gaze lingered on her team for a moment before she stepped forward, her movements deliberate. She glanced over her shoulder, her emerald eyes glinting with quiet determination. "I'll see you at the Land of Waves."

With that, she took off, her form blurring as she activated her Swift Release, the world around her becoming a blur of motion. Trees whipped past in a flurry of green and brown as she surged ahead, her speed unmatched.

Behind her, Tomaru watched until she vanished from sight. He turned back to Mai and Mina, his expression neutral but steady. "Alright," he said, his tone practical. "Rest up. We've got a mission to finish."

Mai groaned, flopping onto a nearby log. "Great. A forced break with Mr. Perfect for company."

Mina chuckled softly, adjusting her glasses. "It's better than collapsing mid-mission."