Sasori didn't know what to think the first time he saw her like that. When the mission was near it's end and she had to don her mask. He did suppose it was necessary- that way, no one actually knew who it was when they finished. She had to keep her regular face unknown so other missions could go off without a hitch. Or at least so they had a chance to.
But as soon as the metal was over her face, her whole demeanor changed. He could almost call her cold, aloof, calculated. It was almost disturbing to witness the ease at which Akemi slipped into the role. He wondered how long, how often she had to do this at the orders of Leader. Sasori ignored the feeling of guilt that swept over him at the thought. They had work to do.
Two hours later, the job was done. With the aide of a few others, the target had been taken out, objective secured, and the two missing-nin were on their way back to base.
Akemi still hadn't taken off the mask.
Sasori watched her quietly. "Akemi," he spoke, his voice seemingly loud in the otherwise still night. She never broke her stride. "Akemi, stop." She didn't. It wasn't until Sasori forcibly took her arm and pulled her closer that she stilled. The two partners stared at each other for a long moment before the redhead reached up and pulled off her mask.
They didn't speak. Nothing needed to be said. They simply stood there, Akemi's head on Sasori's shoulder, waiting until the confusion and hurt and emotions had passed before resuming their silent walk through the night.
