Naruto:The avenger of the uzumaki clan

Chapter

45: The Wave Country Mission

The old man standing before Menma

and the others was Tazuna, renowned as a bridge construction expert. This

mission, which involved protecting him, would lead to the plotline featuring

the infamous Zabuza Momochi. Logically, this should be an A-rank mission. Even

if they were unaware of Zabuza's involvement, it would still likely be

classified as B-rank. Unlike other mission distinctions, in the ninja system,

the real difference between C-rank and B-rank missions is whether other ninjas

are involved. If other ninjas are involved, it's B-rank or above; if not, it's C-rank

or below.

Tazuna had offered a reward that

matched a C-rank mission standard, claiming he was only being targeted by the

underworld. The Konoha Hidden Village classified it as a C-rank mission

accordingly. Taking on gangsters and thugs wouldn't require a high-ranking

mission and could be managed by deploying state-level guards. However, the

Ninja Village did not completely rely on the employer's word. They conducted

basic research to verify the mission's authenticity, but it was impossible to

investigate everything fully.

This explains why some employers

initially succeed in deceiving the ninja village. Once the mission's difficulty

proves different from the initial assessment, ninjas have the right to abandon

it. Compensation is one aspect, but more importantly, if the mission difficulty

is significantly higher, the ninja team may lack the capability to complete it.

Therefore, abandoning the mission is sometimes the right course of action.

Tazuna's luck had him encountering

Team 7, led by Kakashi. Had it been an ordinary genin team led by a chuunin,

they might not have stood a chance against Zabuza or even the demon brothers.

Menma had a different perspective: 'Let's take the lead first, and we'll talk

about it later!'

"I am the famous bridge

builder—Tazuna. Are you the ninjas here to protect me?" Tazuna scrutinized

Kakashi and the five members of Team 7. Initially tense upon seeing Menma and

Naruto, he relaxed upon seeing Kakashi, knowing a chuunin or higher would be

leading the mission.

"Hehe! That's right, old man.

You don't need to worry. Our seventh class will definitely protect you!"

Naruto patted his chest confidently.

"Children shouldn't talk

nonsense. I think it's more reliable for your captain to speak," Tazuna

glanced at Naruto, distrust evident in his tone.

"!! What did you say! Then I

must..." Naruto was ready to retort.

"Okay, Naruto. Tazuna-san,

don't worry. I'll be leading the team. There will be no problem with this

C-rank mission, so rest assured!" Kakashi interrupted, exuding calm

confidence.

Tazuna, relieved, remained

cooperative. "Then I'll trouble you, Ninja-sama," he said, bowing

slightly.

"We'll officially set off

tomorrow morning at eight o'clock. Please meet us on time at the village's main

entrance. Is that okay?" Kakashi asked after receiving the mission scroll.

"I have no problem with

that," Tazuna smiled and left the mission building.

"Okay, you four, go back and

pack. This mission will take at least three or four days. Prepare your

necessary luggage and meet at the main entrance on time tomorrow.

Understood?" Kakashi addressed his team seriously. It was their first

mission outside the village, and even if it was a C-rank mission, Kakashi

wanted Menma and Naruto to understand its importance.

"Yes, Kakashi-sensei!"

Menma and the others responded in unison.

"Just watch, Old Man! We will

definitely complete the mission successfully this time!" Naruto, eager to

prove himself, clenched his right fist and waved it confidently at Sarutobi

Hiruzen.

"Haha, then I'll wait for your

good news," Sarutobi Hiruzen replied with a smile. He then glanced at

Menma with particular interest.

Menma, mature and perceptive,

noticed the Hokage's special attention, thanks to Kagura's mind and his

agreement with Kurama. Many could defeat or even kill Menma, but none could

sneak up on him. Menma's spiritual perception was sharp. 'Hmph, this old man!'

he thought, though outwardly, he remained composed, following Kakashi.

The five members of Team 7 left the

mission building to prepare for their journey.