Zabuza could be quite cold to Naruto at the beginning. He's not exactly the warm - and - fuzzy type. But when Naruto shows his skills and tells his story of being banished unjustly, Zabuza might empathize on some level. He might not show it openly, but he could start to protect Naruto in his own way, perhaps because he sees a bit of his younger self in Naruto who was also wronged by the ninja system.
Well, it could be due to some sort of mind - control jutsu. Maybe Zabuza uses a special technique that he learned in the Hidden Mist Village to make Naruto do his bidding.
They often interact in a way that combines Naruto's energetic and positive nature with Zabuza's more stoic and serious one. For instance, Naruto might try to crack jokes or be friendly, while Zabuza is initially resistant but gradually warms up.
He could learn Zabuza's signature water - style jutsu, like the Hidden Mist Technique. This would give Naruto an advantage in terms of creating diversions and hiding his movements during battles.
On a more practical level, Naruto's skills might be misused. Instead of using his power to protect Konoha and the people he cares about, he's using it for Zabuza's self - centered motives. This could also make him a target for other ninja who oppose Zabuza. So not only is he in danger from the people he used to call friends, but also from new enemies. And if he ever tries to break free from Zabuza, he might face severe retaliation from Zabuza himself, which could be life - threatening.
The character development of Zabuza and Haku would be very different. Usually, they are portrayed as somewhat cold and isolated characters. But with Naruto around, they would be exposed to his warmth and positive attitude. Haku might develop more self - confidence and Zabuza could learn to trust others more. This would not only change their individual storylines but also how they interact with other characters in the long run.
It could start with mutual respect. Naruto's mage powers might earn Zabuza's respect as he sees the potential in them for his own goals. Then, they could develop a friendship based on trust. For example, Naruto trusts Zabuza not to harm him despite his fearsome reputation, and Zabuza trusts Naruto to use his magic to their advantage. As time passes, this friendship could turn into deeper feelings. Maybe they have a moment of shared vulnerability, like when they're both injured and have to rely on each other for survival. This would lead to the development of a romantic relationship, making them mates.
At first, the apprentice might see Naruto as an enemy or at least a nuisance. However, Naruto's determination and his ability to never give up could intrigue the apprentice. As they are forced to work together on various tasks, they would start to understand each other better. Naruto could learn about the apprentice's loyalty to Zabuza and the apprentice could learn about Naruto's loyalty to his friends and village. This mutual understanding would lead to a deeper relationship.