AN: Okay chapter 3 is now fixed too.
Oh something I had forgotten to explain earlier.
In this story if you haven't noticed i mention ANBU and Hunter...these are not quite the same thing.
Hunters in this story are indeed ANBU but they are usually the leaders. Still there are noticable differences.
Iruka here we find is Hunter, however he doesn't necessarily lead a team, he works alone. At least so far. Kakashi on the other hand trains teams and leads them if it is needed, but he too works alone.
That was my very short but to the point explantaion.
Please review.
Chapter 3: Late Night Conversations
Stride, stride, leap... Stride, stride, leap...
Iruka ran across the rooftops as if his life depended on it. He planned only to deliver the messages Tsunade gave him and go home. Jus the thought of his home was enough to make his mood brighten. The sooner he got some sleep the better.
Where does she get off doing this to me, now they'll all be even more suspicious of me. Now this will give Kakashi even more reason to fallow me around all day.
It wasn't a secret to the chuunin that the cpoy ninja was following him around from time to time and spying on him. It drove him nuts he hated it and only he seemed to know, no one else noticed. It was just...irritating and it had to stop.
He knew letting his emotions get to him was a mistake and against one of the main teachings of the shinobi, but right now he didn't care.
I hate these missions; it's just like the last time!
Damn Genma...I know it wasn't his fault but I am lucky he didn't say anything. But Kakashi...would he?
It wasn't often he was called upon to do a mission as a hunter but this was ridiculous, there must be a threat of some kind that would require him to take such measures.
Pushing that last thought aside Iruka headed straight for Genma's apartment.
Leaning back in a chair at his table Genma let out an exasperated sigh. Things just kept heating up in Konohoa ever since the attack from sound. But at least this mission wasn't going to be too bad. It wasn't like he didn't know where he was going.
Looking to his left he stared at his fridge...
Maybe I should eat something before my stomach eats me alive...or I could go out and drink some sake...no that would be a bad idea, Iruka would never let me live that...
Suddenly a knock reverberated through the small room startling Genma from his thoughts.
Okay, that was not my door.
Who would come see me through the window?
Getting up and walking to his bedroom, the only other room aside from the bathroom and the kitchen in his small apartment, Genma saw his visitor was none other than the academy instructor.
"Oi, Iruka-sensei what brings you here? And at my window at that." Genma tried his best to sound surprised but his face only felt annoyed.
"It's a message from the Hokage." Iruka sounded agitated.
"Thank you...are you alright?" He couldn't help but ask.
Man he looks like he was in a fight with a couple sound nin...
"Yeah, I will be." Iruka laughed nervously.
Genma looked at the younger man with scrutiny. There was no way he was going to get away with that. He was not only Iruka's closest friend (and seemed to be one of the very few...or was he the only one?) but also Kakashi's friend. And if being Kakashi's friend meant anything it meant you could read people's emotions better than anyone.
"No I don't think so, you need to talk about this one, I can tell." Iruka's head sank as Genma said this.
"I really don't want to." He was mumbling under his breath. Genma now knew for sure something was bothering him.
"To bad" Genma sang as he reached forward and grabbed the chuunin by the collar pulling him into the room.
Man is he light, I bet he hasn't been eating enough... it must be the busy schedule he keeps. I don't blame him.
"B...But I...I...Gak...Genma you're choking me." Iruka complained as he tried desperately to break free of the jounin's death grip on his collar.
"Then don't fight back." Genma was really getting annoyed with the strength Iruka was developing. He had become much stronger than last he checked.
Damn, what's he do in his free time...train with Gai?
I hope not. Genma shuddered at the thought but knew also that the chuunin he was pulling across the room was too smart to train with Gai. That would be just plain stupid, only Kakashi seemed to dare.
Tripping the chuunin sensei and giving him one last shove, Genma smiled in triumph as the smaller man landed on his bed.
"Now tell me what the hell the Hokage wanted that made you as pale as a sheet." Genma demanded now with more authority in his voice.
Iruka was not happy; actually he was even more furious than before. Not only did he get the worst mission ever but now Genma, his best friend had pulled him unwillingly into his apartment and set him down on his bed as though he were a child.
I...Don't... Want... To... Talk... About... It!
Folding his arms in front of his chest Iruka tilted his head down to the side and pouted. What else was he to do? He had to get it through to Genma that he wasn't happy about being forced into telling him anything
"Awww now common don't do that! You look like a wimp!"
Why is it everyone wants to piss me off today...do they all have a death wish?
Iruka sighed knowing that Genma would only get more persistent. "I said I don't want to talk about it!"
Oppps I opened my fat mouth...now he won't let up I just know it. He sighed inwardly.
"Okay then, we'll have to do this the hard way won't we!" Genma sneered.
Was that a threat? Did Genma jus threaten me? Iruka now fidgetted a bit, worry lacing his across his face.
Pulling out a kunai Genma leaned forwards allowing Iruka to see the blade perfectly.
"FINE!" Iruka shouted standing up suddenly almost taking the kunai in the chest.
"Geeez you know what...I'm NOT DEAF" Genma shouted back. Iruka knew he wasn't really upset but more startled than anything. "You know you should be more careful you almost got yourself killed."
"Ugghhhh" Iruka sighed noisily and fell back onto the bed.
Jounin are crazy!
"Well if you would learn to use that properly then you wouldn't have to worry now would you? Some of my students use kunai better than you." Iruka decided to use a lecturing tone as he said this hoping the jounin got the hint.
"Well it's not like they're my specialty" Genma smiled as the senbon in his mouth bobbed.
"I'm sorry for shouting...I'm just really..."
"Stressed out. Yeah I know I saw that earlier when you almost killed Kakashi back there." Genma said pointing behind him in no real direction.
Does he miss anything? He's almost as observant as Kakashi.
Iruka watched Genma for a moment and decided no harm could come to him if he told Genma about the change in the mission; it wasn't like the jounin had no clue what was going on.
"Fine then I'll talk."
Now we're getting somewhere! Genma smiled as he grabbed a chair and sat next to the bed, still holding the scroll he was given moments before.
He sat quietly listening as Iruka told him about the questions the Hokage had asked him and about the sudden promotion. All this was happening too fast.
Iruka had been working as a hunter for years, and out of all the ANBU he was the best at keeping it secret. The chuunin had a right to be worried. Not only would Kakashi be able to work it out in seconds just by seeing Iruka in his gear but he would also work out what they have to hide from him. He can't let him get to their destination no matter what.
"Hmmm...this could be bad." Genma's face became grave. "If Kakashi and I are supposed to find that village I had better make sure he ends up lost or at best I could get separated from him and warn them. I know they have a few very interesting defenses including genjutsu that would hide the village."
"Yeah I hope so but Kakashi isn't just the average shinobi."
"That's the problem, losing the guy is nearly impossible and he'd know if I was up to something."
"So what do we do with him then?"
"Well it all depends."
"What do you mean?"
Genma grinned, stood up and walked to a shelf and picked up a single senbon. From first glance it looked quite normal but when brought into the light the color appeared completely different. Instead of steely silver the senbon was a bright blue.
Iruka leaned forward with an odd look on his face. Genma wasn't sure what the man sitting on his bed was thinking but he was sure he'd find out in a second.
"She gave you that didn't she?"
Genma nodded sullenly. "I'm not really sure she's still alive but before she went to see you the day she left, she gave me this." Holding out the senbon Genma allowed Iruka to take it.
"I'm still not sure how to use it. But she did say if I ever needed help and I figured out how to use it then she'd come... but I haven't figured it out yet."
Iruka made a disgusted face and handed it back. "Well you'd better get it worked out by tomorrow because if Kakashi is going to be a problem we might need her to keep him busy. Sometimes I wish Naruto was here."
Ha ha ha...always expect Iruka to mention Naruto...you'd think the boy was his son with the way he talks and treats him.
"What could Naruto do?"
"Well he could distract him."
Nah he wouldn't fall for that! The man acts as though he doesn't care when he senses something's up.
Genma sat back down in the chair and sighed as he placed his face in his hands. "Seriously though Akane could save our asses on this mission. She could have Kakashi practically walking in circles even if he has the sharingan. Hell I could just ask her to pin him to a tree and he would never get out."
Iruka laughed.
Genma was right if Akane was in Konohoa then things would be easier but she had left and no one had heard from her since.
"Well be careful what you say it's not like the girl was ever invincible. If I recall it right she was at my place practically twice a week if not everyday with some injury she had gotten while on mission, or in training."
Iruka missed those days. Akane just seemed to make things better no matter how bad they seemed.
"Yeah she was a walking accident, too bad the ANBU here were catching on to her."
"Well can you blame them she was a spy after all." Iruka snorted.
He hated the fact that she was a foreign ninja and he was helping Genma hide her at the time. But now he knew better, hidding her was the best thing for his village he had ever done. The real problem was what did she do those countless times during the war and after that kept the village out of serious trouble?
"Yeah I remember when she told you, ha ha you were soo mad you didn't talk to her for a week, and the next thing she knew you came to her door with a broken leg asking her to help you."
"Well you could have gone easy on me."
That day he really was going to tell the ANBU he knew who the spy was. Lucky for him Genma came and stopped him. The fight was a nasty one and many people had stopped to watch. The only thing that stopped Iruka in the end from exposing her was Genma getting past his defences and imobalizig him with a single blow to the leg. How he did it the chunnin will never know but it hurt and did waht it was supposed to.
I will get even for that, one day.
"No, You were going to hand her in, but you didn't regret hiding her from what I heard."
"Okay Genma that's enough."
He always has to bring up personal things when we end up talking like this; I need to get him back on track.
Frowning Iruka tried to use the awkward silence he had created to think up a way for the senbon to work. If it was supposed to send a message then...why not throw it.
Grabbing the senbon from Genma's hand Iruka sent it sailing across the room.
"HEY!" Genma glared at Iruka with a look of disbelief.
"Hmm it didn't work."
There must be something else. Something that links her to it and us. Something... there has to be something.
"No kidding it doesn't work. Do you think I didn't try that?" Looking back to the wall Genma sighed. "Now I have to repair that hole you made in my wall...geez we talk about her for just a moment and I swear you start doing odd things like she used to."
He was right. Akane had a knack for oddness. She was often caught daydreaming and chattering to herself. Catching her in an arguement with herself was the most unusual thing Iruka had witnessed from the girl. She wasn't crazy, no far from it, just strange and smart at the same time. The combination often created interesting people.
"Well how else to figure out how it works."
"Okay I'll give you that but please don't burn down the apartment. I know it would definitely give off a signal but she wouldn't see that from where she is...Where ever that is!"
Iruka couldn't help himself he just had to laugh. "She would burn down the apartment...just to make a point." Still laughing Iruka got up and grabbed the senbon from the wall. Slowly dust fell to the ground as the senbon was released leaving a neat pile by the wall.
"There has to be something we have to do with this that links it to you and her. But what?"
"Could she have performed a jutsu on it?"
"That's why I threw it, that's the obvious thing to do." Iruka had used such jutsu before but hated them since there were difficult to perform and took time, not to mention the item was also easy to lose. But this was more than that it had to somehow alert the person one wanted to call, and for help; so the call had to be something urgent and easy to notice. Holding the senbon and looking down at the dust, Iruka had a sudden thought.
"Genma?"
"Huh? What is it?" Genma looked up from staring at the floor.
"Do you remember what she specialized in?"
"Uh... Jutsu!" Genma scratched his head. "She was mostly an all around ninja nothing too special just really good and talented that's all."
No too braod something else.
"Yes but so is Kakashi...but he has the sharingan..."
"Ahhh I see, so by that you mean a blood-line limit." Genma now started to drum his fingers on the near by desk.
If Akane had a bloodline limit then Iruka was sure she had hidden it. It had to have something to do with the Akahoshi...something he had learned in the academy or was it something he had read in the academy's library.
"Maybe or a specialty justu, some ninjutsu that she didn't use too much." Iruka added aloud.
She wouldn't risk using such a jutsu if she were really a spy and it made sense. It was clear since there was a difference in her behaviour when she was out in public or with them. In public she was crazy, almost so crazy Iruka had the urge to tie her up and put a leish on her to keep her from trouble. But with them she was calm, well at times, and more collected. The Akane they knew could very well not even be the real one.
"Hmm well she is an Akahoshi so something to do with blood, if I recall it right from my academy days." Genma scrunched his face and sighed.
"You're sure?" Iruka was nearly in his face. Of course how could he have missed it?The Akahoshi were a very fierce caln of shinobi, know for very devastating attacks, and were feared by many.
"Yeah I believe so. They're well known for it but the skills are rare and difficult, what makes you think she would know how to use them?" Genma rolled his eyes.
"How much about her do you know?" Iruka was sure Genma didn't know nearly as much as he let on. Iruka knew he was the only person who really knew her, or her real personality, but still what he saw was only a portion of the real personality she had.
Genma looked up as if asking his ceiling for the answer but instead shook his head. It baffled Iruka that someone who had been living among the Akahoshi had no clue about thier jutsu or even blood-line limits.
I knew it, you may have spent a year in her village but they're all good at keeping secrets. Akane is one of the best and I doubt you even know how strong she was then...or how much she taught me.
"I think I know how to use this." Iruka said straightening up and sitting back down on the bed where he was put a while ago.
Genma just stared at his friend for a moment and sighed. "Okay you think your so smart how do you use it?"
"Well I think it's simple and I'm surprised you missed it. The Akahoshi specialize in ninjutsu, genjutsu and taijutsu involving blood."
"Yes how nice." Genma still found that disturbing. Not only did they use such horrifying jutsu but also they were all odd, it must be a link. Anyone who sees as much blood as they do would go nuts.
Yuck that's just gross and it would fit her...she would find it funny. I wonder if her brother knows them, probably...
"So therefore...Genma are you listening?"
"Huh oh sorry I was just thinking that she would do something as gross as using blood as a weapon."
"Yes I bet you were." Genma had a feeling that wasn't what Iruka was thinking. The rumors must not be too nice. It's not like he was think of anything else although it was a good idea but not now.
"What I was..." Genma pouted as Iruka interrupted him quickly cutting him off.
"Well what ever anyways. The blood she uses is either her own or an enemy's. So if she said that you were in a situation in which you would need her help would throwing the senbon be very useful when it could very well be the only thing left defending you?"
"No it wouldn't I would be using it to keep the enemy's weapons from getting me." Although he was a jounin he sill used the senbon as his main weapon and sometimes he used them like kunai. It was normal for him to save one in case the worst scenario happened.
"Right."
Okay I think I see where he's going with this. But that's ingenious...I guess I shouldn't expect anything else from her or anyone from that village.
Genma frowned he wasn't sure if he liked what he was coming up with. It was smart yes but disgusting.
"She wants me to stab myself with it doesn't she?"
Iruka was about to burst out laughing when Genma decided he didn't want to be laughed at. "Well she's nuts there's no way I'm going to do that, I'd have to be a masochist to do that. And the last time I was in pain I really did not enjoy it." Genma crossed his arms and huffed for a moment. "Who does she think she is? It's not healthy to think like that. No one I know of thinks like that..."
"Ha ha ha...well think about it if Kakashi gets too close to them what do you think would happen. Not only would he link her to the spy but her whole family to the incident that happened decades ago. I'm not to sure what he would do but I'd rather him not see that village."
"You're right, he's still ANBU and they're to kill any Akahoshi on sight since the incident. But her family had nothing to do with it. I know that for sure I think they were caught in the cross-fire and got punished as well just because they were a part of the clan."
"It's disgusting if you ask me, it's not much different than what the villagers did to Naruto, just on a grander scale."
"Well it's not seeing the village that scares me it's him meeting Akane that could be a problem. I don't think I could stop them from trying to kill each other, Aside from you I'm the only other person from Konohoa allowed in that village."
Iruka nodded and sighed. "Should we call her now or later?"
"Later maybe when Kakashi and I are on the move, I can call her at night once he's asleep I'll get her to do something, but I'm not to sure what yet."
"Well just be careful you know what she's like."
"Yeah as curious as a kitten, I know I don't know how many time's I had to bail her out of something that her curiosity got her into."
Genma sighed and then realized he still had the scroll Iruka had given him. Slowly he opened the parchment.
"Ahhh well, it's not like I don't know that. Sometimes I seriously think she's has this odd idea that I never listen to her."
"What's it say?"
"Oh just that you're going as your alter ego and..."
Suddenly a pillow whacked Genma across the face. He wasn't to sure how to react to it so he just ignored it and gave Iruka a dirty look.
"Hey it's true, you act different when you wear your gear." Actually the chuunin was scary when he wore it. Not only was he faster and stronger but he also demanded a lot more respect than he normally did. Getting on his bad side was usually a mistake.
"Well if I didn't the whole damn village would know I was a hunter."
"Yeah true, well other than that I'm told to follow everything Kakashi says, geeez I know that! And oh it's Kaji we're looking for. Okay I know that too. I hope you find him fast."
Iruka smiled and then it faded. Genma noticed the stress in Iruka's eyes.
"Don't worry too much I'll keep him out of your hair, the chances of running into you and Raidou are slim."
"Oh that reminds me. Is it safe for Raidou to know...my alternate...identity? I mean would he..."
"Nah it's safe with him, trust me the guy won't talk. He's not much of a talker anyways, tends to keep to himself. He'll figure you out anyways, he has more experience in such things..."
"Oh..."
Genma smiled. Iruka was such a worrier it was no wonder Akane wanted to leave quickly before Iruka started to dote on her. He loved that girl soo much; they were almost inseparable...the closest of friends. Genma himself had at one time fallen for the Konoichi but learned quickly that she would be more trouble than was worth his time. He knew Iruka used to have feelings for her at one time but there was something that scarred the chuunin and he never seemed to act on his emotions. Or he never felt like that...he'd have to think about it...or ask Akane when he saw her.
"No really don't worry." Getting up Genma stretched out his back and sighed...pausing in mid stretch he noticed the worried look on Iruka's face, it had gotten worse.
"What now!" It was beyond him how the academy teacher could worry over everything. But he had to admit the smaller man did it well.
"Huh? Oh I have to go give Kakashi a scroll as well, I'm not to sure if I can face him."
"Are you actually scared of him?" Genma asked placing his hands on his hips trying to suppress laughter.
"N...No I'm just...still mad at him." Iruka murmmered as he looked sheepishly to the side.
"Uh-huh, I'm sure you are. Look I'll tell you this once, the man has no mean streak, he doesn't hold grudges and from what I've seen he'd only lash out at you if either you deserved it or if you came at him first. Just talk to him nicely and he'll listen...I hope. Other than that I can't give you more advice."
"I still have no clue how you can be friends with him!"
"How's that?" Genma rolled his eyes. He knew it was coming it always did. He could see the rant just seconds away.
"Well he's annoying, and he knows it! He does it on purpose, and makes me look like an idiot! He's rude, show's up unannounced, and he's always late and reads those disgusting books!" Almost out of breath Iruka wasn't quite done.
"He finds it fun when I suffer and he sets me up, I hate it when he smiles at me when I can't come up with a come back...he taunts me all the time. Can't he get a life? Or pick on someone else?"
Genma now stared at Iruka. Did he just repeat himself? Wow he just about nailed every bad habit the other jounin had.
"Well let's start from the beginning. Yes he knows he can be annoying and yes he does use it, and I hate to say it its kind of funny when he makes you look like an idiot. You just need to step back a moment and laugh at yourself seriously you do fall for them all. He's not always rude but he is if he knows it's what you expect. As for the unannounced he's always been like that. The late thing well I'm not to sure why he does it but as long as I've known him he's always been like that." Taking a deep breath Genma continued.
"Those books aren't to bad just a bit graphic, I guess they distract him. Again the setting up, you fall for them all the time you really need to pay more attention to what he's saying and to what you say, there might be a reason to why he's doing it or a hidden meaning, or it could be that he likes to bug you because he finds you funny or that you need cheering up. It's not his fault you fly off the handle. Hmmm a life, yeah I tried that, he pissed off all the girls I introduced him to, and actually he told me they're boring. So I'm not to sure what he likes in women and other than that his books are the only hobby I've seen him do, but I bet he does other things too.
Iruka just stared. "Exactly how much do you know about him?"
Genma couldn't help it. "I believe here are many layers to Kakashi-san and the chances to fully understanding are, well slim to none. I'm just working on trying to figure out the few emotions he does show...trust me he shows far fewer than you do."
"I bet, I can tell from his behavior. He may be reliable as a shinobi but as a person I can trust Naruto more."
"Of course you do the kid worships the ground you walk on."
"No he doesn't. He sometimes gets into trouble and I have to bail him out, or tell him off, now if you want to say he worships me I would welcome you to take my place."
"Heh nah you can keep it!" Genma rolled his eyes there were few who spent time with the academy teacher but Genma knew what he needed to know.
"Look here's what you can do I've seen how you handle the students you teach, just talk to Kakashi like you do to them if he starts to bug you. It might work better than you think I mean consider the guy's history, he was a shinobi at a very young age. He had to grow up fast so maybe he doesn't understand some things."
"Yeah your probably right."
Genma looked at the clock "We'll I had better check my gear and set up for leaving, you have to leave early so I suggest you deliver that now."
"Yeah you're right! Thank you Genma I hope your right and don't forget to call Akane as soon as you can get the chance. Make sure Kakashi doesn't see."
Genma walked ,with the chuunin to the window. "Yeah yeah I know the drill. Be careful, don't let anything slip when you see him, if he suspects anything we're doomed got it."
"Yes I understand. Thanks." And with that the chuunin leapt to a nearby rooftop and vanished with a final wave.
Genma sighed looking back to the senbon in the desk where Iruka had just left it.
(Flashback)
"Hey Genma!" A voice startled the jounin from the mission report he was desperately trying to complete.
"Huh?"
"Genma let me in!" looking up Genma saw there was a shinobi at the window, actually it was an Akane. You can't call her a shinobi, she was just Akane, nothing more; she was too odd to be anything else.
Sighing heavily he opened the window to let her in. "What are you doing sneaking around. There is a door over there, why not use it?"
"Ummm..." she looked up and drummed her fingers on the window ledge. "It's boring and besides this is fun!"
"Yeah anything for the adrenalin rush huh?"
"Why not I might as well live it up neh?"
"I should jus throw you out the window."
"I can't let you do that."
"I bet. Is there a reason why you have to bug me now?"
"Uh-huh" she nodded vigorously making her pony tail flail up and down with each movement.
"Well too bad, if I don't get this done the Hokage will be mad."
"No he won't, he's a softy he likes the young shinobi you can hand it in late and he won't bat an eye lash."
Genma knew she was right but something was bugging him. Akane never came to see him during the day, so what was it she wanted?
"Look I have to get it done anyways. It's not just the Hokage that needs to see this, not that it's worth seeing."
"Yeah Yeah I get it. You're so boring! Even Iruka-san is more fun."
"Ha Ha Ha really? How so." He laughed as he dodged a fist that was aimed carefully for his chin. "Hey I was kidding, I know there's nothing between you two, there may have been a few months back but not anymore."
"And how do you know all this?"
"I was following you, I wanted to know a few more things. Can you blame me just two years ago you tell me you're a spy for some village I have never heard of but hey your no threat...I would have believed you if you didn't save me from being killed three days later. I still have no clue what you did."
"Uh that's a trade secret sorry not sharing." The girl grinned. Her eyes flashing with mischief.
Genma frowned. "What is it you really want?"
"I want to give you a gift! Is that wrong?" She now assumed a confused expression, and then a hurt one.
"No but it would depend on what it is. Knowing you it can be a very dangerous gift indeed."
"Heh...well that backfired." She shrugged. "But yes it can be dangerous but not for you."
"Akane I really hate riddles just get it over with."
"Okay if you say so." As though something horrible had possessed the girl she flung something at him.
"Ahhh, Ouch what the hell are you doing."
Embedded deeply in his arm was a sliver senbon.
"Oh stop being a baby, it'll only hurt a little more." As she said this she reached for the weapon and pulled it out quickly. "See now was that so bad?"
"Ummph." Genma hated it when she tricked him; he usually wound up feeling really stupid whenever he fell for it.
"Now for the gift!" She said in a quiet tone still smiling wildly...
Carefully the girl held the needle in the palm of her hand as she did a few hand seals over the sliver of metal with her free hand.
"Okay what I need you to do with this is when ever you need my help or can't get out of a fix I want you to use this. I can't tell you how now since for an odd reason the walls in this village have ears."
"Yeah they sure do." Genma muttered.
"Also you can use this to defend yourself at anytime but you must retrieve it, if you lose it you'll be out of luck in the future, is that understood."
If it was one thing Akane could do well was to get a point across, and to teach at the same time. "You remember all the techniques I taught you?"
"Yes." Genma nodded, okay something's wrong why would she do this?
"Good you'll be needing them it seems you'll be having a few extra missions soon." Quickly she glanced back at the window. "That's all I can tell you now, when I see you next I'll be sure to explain more later." She seemed distracted now.
"Why are you doing this?"
"I can't stay in Konohoa anymore, it's to dangerous, the ANBU are catching on and I can't risk being caught."
"I can understand that, but be careful and stay alive." He was worried about her. When something involved Akane he could always count on her being the one in the fix but then again he wasn't too sure if she used that as a mask to hide her true abilities, could she have been tricking them from the start.
"Are you kidding I'll be fine it's not like I'll let those snot nosed losers get me, besides they have sticks shoved so far up their asses that they can't even see a jutsu coming at them if I did it right in their faces. Do me a favor though, and don't end up like them okay? I don't think it would suit you."
Now it was Genma's turn to laugh. "Don't worry about that I'll make sure to 'live it up' as you say"
"Good, well watch out for Iruka-san for me he'll b needing some help once in a while."
"You know I will, he's like a little brother to me." Genam smiled he was starting to hate this goodbye thing.
"Thanks for all you've done." Suddenly looking out the window Akane decided it was about time to leave. "Well it looks like I have to lose one of them, bye." And with that she flung herself out the window backwards.
Running to make sure she hadn't actually miscalculated he found no sign of the crazy girl. "Good riddance at least now I can finish my report...but be careful Akane, there are a few ANBU who would have sliced your head off for your comment."
Sighing he placed the needle on the shelf where he always kept it. He knew better than to not take it. He always had it on him somewhere for the past ten years.
"Damn Kakashi or living in the other direction." Iruka huffed. He was starting to get tired and knew that by the time he reached the jounin's home he would have to rest, he had no choice.
Genma had better be right that he doesn't hold a grudge. Then again I've never seen him act out of anger either...does he even have a temper...I'm starting to doubt it.
Quickly Iruka leapt over another alleyway. He wasn't normally one to travel over rooftops but if he needed to think or was in a hurry it was the best way to go.
Reaching his destination Iruka had to take a moment before he would even bother attracting the jounin's attention. The window was open and the lights were on in the apartment. He wasn't to surprised the jounin had a small apartment.
He doesn't strike me as the type to keep many things just for the sake of having them...I doubt he even has guests.
Seating himself down on a rooftop across from the window Iruka attempted to hide his chakra signature just incase Kakashi was in a mood.
If Akane saw me acting like this she probably be on the ground laughing at me. She always laughed at me...I miss the fun we all had...was it because of her...or did I forget?
"Iruka-sensei? What brings you here?" A deep voice startled the chuunin almost making him fall off the roof he was perched on. "Iruka-sensei?"
Still startled Iruka had troubles reducing his heartbeat.
Does he always have to do that...He's as bad as Akane, but at least she helped me recover.
"Uh yeah... sorry" Iruka bent his head down so he could hide his embarrassment, not that he was doing a particularly good job of it.
"Are you going to sit up there the whole time?"
"What if I was?" Iruka snapped.
STUPID STUPID STUPID! Iruka practically screamed at himself.
"Well I suggest you go sit somewhere else it's annoying." Kakashi waved a single gloved hand as though dismissing what he had just said. "Or are you here for something?" He now leaned out the window and glanced down at the street.
What's he looking at? Iruka wondered as he too looked down for a moment and remembered why he was there in the first place.
"Oh yes I have a message from the Hokage."
"You do?" Kakashi looked up at the chuunin and smiled. "How nice."
Damn him. Is he so dense on purpose or is he trying to set me up? I'm sorry Genma I think I need more practice with my control when it comes to this idiot. He was slipping he could feel it.
"IT"S FOR YOU...YOU HALF BRAINED JOUNIN!" Iruka screamed nearly losing his balance.
Kakashi just stared at him and then smiled. "Hmm well you might as well come in then, you don't look so good anyways. I have some tea already cooking."
It was now Iruka's turn to stare.
Did he just...will I ever figure him out? Sighing the chuunin sensei accepted the offer and climbed into the small apartment.
Kakashi knew he was there from the second he stopped approaching his apartment. He had no clue why the chuunin was coming in this particular direction, it was out of character that was for sure, but then again lately it seemed Iruka had been very odd over the past few days.
Actually it was hard to miss the chuunin's approach. His chakra was so charged with raw emotion that it had startled Kakashi and also alerted him to who as coming.
The fact the chuunin's chakra was so charged told him itwas because he was coming to see him, there was no one else who could cause the sensei to react that way.
He had been watching the sensei ever since he had been assigned team seven. He wanted to learn how Iruka was so widely accepted by his three students. They listened to him eagerly and even showed him the proper respect. Kakashi though only got odd looks, comebacks, and a lot of screaming. They hated him as far as he was concerned or at least he used to think so.
He spent most of his spare time on watching the teacher to help him learn about some of his team'sodd behaviors and how to deal with them.
Naruto he had learned was best to humor and listen to. Sometimes the boy would say things that were useful during the mission or do something that seemed utterly stupid but countless times he had managed to not only save them but also befriend many people. Naruto, although he may seem dim had been very smart in situations. His carefree attitude and at times seriousness always appeared where they should.
There was no denying it Naruto had talent and skill; but unfortunately they only appeared where and when he really needed them, which was never outside of battle.
Kakashi knew there were times he had to hold the urge to smack the boy senseless or even times when he desperately wanted to knock the boy out and leave him in a ditch to see just how far his luck went. But as time passed he had learned from Iruka to treat Naruto with the same respect he showed him and to treat him as an equal even though he was his student. On Naruto's return Kakashi had noticed how much his student had matured in some areas (while in others he seemed to still be clueless). His skills were improving amazingly fast and even though the boy had less experience than he, he was definitely more powerful. All he needed now was a bit of fine-tuning. He was sure Yamato could figure it out but time was the problem.
Sasuke was a problem though. Much like himself Sasuke had lost his family at a young age in a horrible way. Kakashi had never really known his mother but when his father had killed himself he was close to losing himself in the turmoil. Sasuke had grown up in a similar fashion and so Kakashi spent most of his time much like his former sensei had, trying to open up the boy and teach him to live a better life. Iruka seemed to treat Sasuke as an adult and Kakashi couldn't help but do the same. He had seen the concerned look on the academy teacher's face but wasn't to sure what it was that was bothering the man.
Two years ago though he had found out what it was and was sure the chuunin had seen it as early as the year they became genin. How could he have not seen it? Sasuke was more concerned with being the so-called avenger that he spent his time gaining power and gaining a hunger for more. It was Kakashi who made the big mistake of spending too much time on training the power hungry demon that he had not prepared either Naruto or Sakura. That was definitely evident in Naruto's defeat by Sauske.
Sakura, he wasn't too sure if he had gone wrong. She was smart and could see through many of the traps they had fallen in over the past years but her crush over Sasuke clouded her judgment. He knew all she needed was to be left alone to realize the danger she could be in if she didn't pay proper attention to herself than someone else. Even Iruka had seen that. He never mentioned anything to the girl but instead spoke to her whenever she was down. Was that what he did wrong? Did he not spend the time with her to help her and guide her? Was he wrong to let her realize all this on her own?
What ever it was he was sure he made a few very large mistakes with his students and it bothered him. How did the chuunin sensei do it? How was he able to help them with the turmoil they felt within? It eluded him just how he managed to gain soo much trust between the three that they came to him rather than their current sensei.
Now watching the sensei as he mulled over weather it was safe to enter his home Kakashi decided to pay closer attention to his face.
Something is on his mind...it's bothering him. He always has a twitch in his left eye when he's agitated.
"It's alright Iruka-sensei I know how much stress you are under I hold no hard feelings about earlier."
He smiled trying to appear...what was it? Oh yes, pleasant. But the reaction he got was something he was expecting anyways.
"Yeah I bet you don't..." The sarcasm was hard to hide. Kakashi ignored it; it had no effect on him.
"Are you implying something?" Kakashi now turned towards the shorter man only inches away.
Iruka flinched back nearly falling off the windowsill into the street below. With quick reflexes Kakashi caught him but the shoulder and stopped the immanent fall.
I can't help but think he's afraid of me.
"You seem on edge sensei, you should relax." Kakashi couldn't help it, he chuckled and it was almost a mistake.
Staring wide-eyed at the jounin holding him from falling out the window Iruka became a little worried for his safety. Not only was he nearly in the strange man's house but he also realized that Kakashi had no idea about personal space.
"I seem on edge huh? Of course I'm on edge...you're going to have to either let me go or help me, what will it be." He growled.
Let me go, that would be nice then I don't need to come in. I'd rather land flat on my ass or my head but it'll be better trying not to kill you.
"Hmm I think helping you would be in both our best interests don't you think. I don't think the Hokage would like it if her favorite chuunin was killed by falling on his head."
Damn, it was worth a try...Wait what did he just call me? Tsunade's favorite...I can't believe it that pervert!
Being pulled in was not something Iruka wanted but he had no choice but to cooperate. It seemed he had a knack for finding people who just were dying to pull him into thier homes.
Once inside Iruka was not to surprised with what he saw. Kakashi wasn't much for material things, which he had guessed. Instead the man had his usual books, and oddly enough a plant by his bed. Aside from that there was a desk against the wall with a few papers but otherwise neat.
I can't believe it. He's a neat freak. Even I can't be this clean. Wait he does a lot of missions so I'm guessing he doesn't spend much time here.
"This way...Iruka-sensei, as much as I am flattered that you are admiring my bedroom I would assure you there is not much here to see." Kakashi's voice interrupted quietly.
"Huh? Oh sorry." Iruka couldn't help but be embarrassed for being caught gawking at the almost empty room.
"Well if it makes you feel better most of the other rooms are much the same." Kakashi mumbled.
Did he just sound sad? Or was it just the way he said it.
"Uh...well I don't mind I know how busy you are...you probably don't have much time for gathering the things most people have in their homes." Iruka felt stupid...how did he do that?
Kakashi stopped in the doorway and looked back. For a moment Iruka was sure he seemed lonely.
But then that smile...the one with the eye. The one that taunted him from day to day crept up his face. How much Iruka wanted to wipe it off his face.
Entering the living area he sat down at the table as Kakashi disappeared around a corner. He was right there wasn't much in the other rooms. He had a table and a couch. There was a coffee table in front of the couch and another plant but other than that the room was as bare as his bedroom. There weren't evne any picture on the walls, the only pictures he saw were in the man's bedroom above his bed on the shelf.
Five minutes later Kakashi appeared with two tea cups and set them down.
"It's green tea." He informed.
Iruka nodded and took the cup saying his thanks and sat with it between both hands. Kakashi sat across from him and drank slowly from his own. Some how he had managed to still keep his face hidden, which confused Iruka to no end.
He must be very paranoid, I wouldn't want to keep wearing that mask for so long, it would drive me nuts. How does he do it?
"I didn't drug it if that's what your wondering." Kakashi smiled as he watched Iruka scrutinize his cup.
"Um, sorry I guess I'm just being odd huh?" Iruka laughed nervously as he rubbed the back of his neck.
"No Not really most people do that. I don't blame them, you don't really know who to trust now a days." Kakashi sighed.
What did he mean by that?
"So the Hokage wanted you to give me a message?" Kakashi watched him again as though he were fascinating. Iruka was getting tired of it.
"Y...Yes she did." Iruka reached behind him and handed the jounin the scroll. He was surprised to see Kakashi take it but ignore it as he placed he beside him.
"Thank you, I'll be sure to look at it later."
He's not already suspicious of me is he?
Feeling he had to say something else to get his mind off of other matters Iruka decided it was time he tried to get the man in front of him to talk.
"So I see you must be very busy."
"What makes you say that, aside from the earlier comment."
"Well it's just...er...well I've never seen you around with anyone else. I mean..."
Kakashi narrowed his only visible eye.
"You mean anyone as in friends or do you mean something else?"
Iruka froze.
I don't want him to get the wrong idea, but I need to understand him more. How else am I supposed to?
"Well friends would be a start...uh do you even have any... I mean any still alive."
"Hmmm..." Kakashi looked down at his cup.
What is he up to? Why is Iruka-sensei asking me personal questions like this? He's a smart man he would know already. I was expecting something among the lines of team seven...he must be very worried about them to not mention them. I think I'll do what he wants for now.
"Well I consider Genma a friend I suppose." Kakashi looked up but he could feel the seriousness still in the air. This time he was going to play along until he got the opportunity to turn the table.
"Really?" Iruka seemed surprised Kakashi knew he would be but seem wasn't an 'is' it was rather just a cover he knew the chunnin already knew that.
Get to your point sensei.
"What about you?" Kakashi knew that was risky but Iruka was more open than he was.
"Well I...I never really thought about it. I guess Genma is my friend also...but I think..."
He's unsure of himself. I wouldn't blame him. Since Mizuki's literal attack on him I'm not to surprised Iruka nearly severed all ties with the people he spent time with.
"So you're not too much different from me...or is it because you got hurt?"
Iruka now noticeably flinched back, that was not the reaction Kakashi wanted.
"I'm sorry that was uncalled for I..."
"No you're right. I guess I just poured myself into my work after that." Iruka sighed. "I was worried that there were other people who were much the same. Up until now I had given up. I must seem like a coward to you." Iruka looked down at his tea and decided to try it.
"Well I don't think so. It's natural to back away from something that hurt you. It's part of healing. It's just cowardly if you never fix it. So if you think of Genma as you friend I can say that you are trying to fix the problem. If you ask me he's a good person to trust."
Iruka looked up a little worry crossed his face.
Hmmm...I think he wanted to hear that...or he needed to. But who am I to help him, He knows more about emotions than I do. But there's something bothering him even more.
"Was there ever anyone you liked more than a friend?" Iruka seemed awfully nervous asking that and it showed as he fidgeted in his seat.
So now we're getting somewhere. This is what he wanted to know.
"Well no I guess not really. I sped too much of my time with team seven or on mission..."
"No I don't mean now." Iruka leaned forwards. "In your past?"
"Um well not really, there were people I liked but not in the sense your referring to." Kakashi frowned. This was going to be an odd night. How was he to explain that he never had the time let alone the will to do so? To feel for someone like that meant losing them.
"Or are you afraid?" Iruka leaned back giving him an odd look.
I'm starting to hate this. It's too risky to fall for someone you can't even protect, not even from themselves.
"Well no not really, not afraid to like anyone...I would not say that."
"Really? What then?"
Questions, Questions, Questions...what the hell has gotten into him. What does my love life have anything to do with this...I never liked anyone.
Giving up Kakashi decided it was time he faced the facts. "Look Iruka-sensei I know you mean well but I don't need any help."
"What kind of help do you think I think you need?" He was now sneering like earlier that day.
"I don't need the moral support, I'm fine." Kakashiw as getting annoyed, the chuunin was digging into things he himself had not quite even bothered to think about let alone understood. He was going to have to come up with something and something fast, a cover a story to at least sound like he wasn't heartless. Which he wasn't but what?
I can't use anyone from this village...what about that shinobi from a while agoI could use her, I had no feelings for her but it would make an excelent story to get him off my back. I bet he's believe this completely. Kakashi mused as a plan formed in his mind.
"Like hell you are." Iruka snorted.
He's not going to stop is he? Nope not from that look. Once he gets an idea I doubt I can stop him.
"I've been watching you." Iruka announced.
Okay that's a new one...I'm the one watching you!
"Oh really."
"Yes, I've never seen anyone take so many dangerous S-ranked missions in a row. You're going to get yourself killed."
"So you think that by settling down you think I can stop that." Kakashi hated this kind of talk; even Genma had come up with this.
"Kakashi-sensei, I want to know that's all. Was there ever anyone in your past?" Iruka sighed he was getting frustrated.
"I don't know." Inside Kakashi was laughing his head off, he could see Iruka accepting the story like a gullable child lisening to a bedtime story.
"WHAT! How can you not know?" Iruka asked now standing.
"It's not something to get so heated about please."
Yes he's falling for it.
"You mean to tell me you don't even know if you've ever been attracted to a girl? Or are you into something else, is that it!"
What the hell?
Kakashi stared at Iruka for a moment. Could he really think he was gay? No he certanately wasn't that.
Suddenly a deep chuckle developed in his throat, he really couldn't help it.
"Is that it you think, I like men... Iruka-sensei I can assure you that I like women just the same as any man. I just know better not to be caught looking."
"So then why do you say you don't know?" He could tell the sensei was embarrassed since he was scratchig the the scar on the bridge of his nose. It was almost a trade mark for the chuunin.
"Well I know I don't like anyone from here. They all bore me. What about you hmm?" Now he caught him. Iruka's face paled and it made Kakashi confident he had him right where he wanted him.
"Uhhh... well...I guess I did once, but I ruined it." Iruka frowned and flopped down heavily in the chair. "She didn't exactly leave me, I made the mistake of telling her I'd rather be her friend. I wasn't too sure what I wanted at the time. Now I know the mistake I made and I also don't get a second chance."
That was unexpected. So you too make mistakes.
"Hmm...she must have really cared though."
"Yes she did, a lot, but I think she didn't love me the same as I loved her. She was a lot like you in a way. She was scared of getting hurt or me getting hurt. I'm not to sure which one it is but I should have seen it then."
"If she's still your friend wouldn't she understand you if you explained it?"
"No it doesn't work that way" Iruka slowly shook his head.
"Oh?" This got Kakashi's attention
"Lets just first say she's a handful and I lost my chance." Iruka sighed.
"Do tell."
A bit of dirty laundry never hurt anyone. It's best to get it off your chest than to walk around with it hampering you all the time.
"Well to start she's not from here. She likes to trick people and has no snese of danger."
"Oh?"
"Um let's just say she's as nuts as Genma."
"I see." Somehow that all made little sense to him and he knew the chuunin did it on purpose.
Too bad it sounds like she's no longer around...she sounds different. Less annoying
"So this I don't know...you never answered me." Iruka now leaned forward.
"Huh what was it that I said."
"Oh no you don't!" Iruka glared. "I was open with you now you tell me."
That bastard he thinks he's gunna get dirt on me without losing some himself. I'll get something.
"Well there was this one girl...I think it's a girl."
Here we go watch him soak it up like a sponge.
Iruka stared at him.
"How can you not know?"
"Well I'm pretty sure it's a girl, I was twenty at the time...she's very strong...I seriously thought she was a man for a while. Until I saw her again."
"How can you mistake a girl for a guy? It's not that easy to do, there are obvious differences or do I have to explain them." He could tell the man in front of him was bewildered by the fact.
Kakashi waved his gloved hands at Iruka in a defensive gesture. "No No I know but she was wearing amour and a mask so it was hard to tell. All I know is she's not native to Fire Country."
"Okay well that's dangerous, falling for someone outside the village is one thing but another shinobi from outside the country can be a mistake." There were rules as to how people married in Fire Country.
A shinobi couldn't just be with who ever he liked. From the village or country yes but outside both not so much. Both families and the village leaders had to agree.However in order for the Kage or leader to agree there had to be sufficent genetic traits that would bepassed on that would aid or be an advantage to the village. Without consent could mean either death or imprissonment for the two involved. What Kakashi was hinting at was very bad.
"Yes that's true." Kakashi looked up and rolled his eye. "I am quite familiar with these laws but there are a few that can be broken."
He must have done something. There's no way he's being so careful with me about this for nothing.
"What did she look like?"
"Hmmm...I'm not to sure really since I've only seen the mask, and I've only seen her twice. But she's very strong, fast too. I doubt even Gai could keep up with her. She has a sense of humor, a little dark though. And I bet she played a lot of pranks as a child since I've been caught in her traps on a few occasions."
"Really? And she just let you go."
"At times, sometimes she would laugh at me for a bit, or tease but nothing too serious. I have no clue what she's been up to in Fire Country but she's been here before."
"Anything else?"
"Hmmm. She has a few odd jutsu and has a wide knowledge of weapons, oh and two swords."
WHAT! Two swords...he can't be...
"Also she has four hair pins in her hair, each a different color. That was what gave her away as a woman to me in the first place but I wasn't to sure right off."
Damn Damn Damn...He described Akane. That's odd, she wouldn't...
"Once she came all the way into the village...Iruka-sensei you look pale."
"Di...Did you ever talk to her?"
"Once why? I haven't seen her for over four years; I doubt she's alive. She seemed to take an awful lot of risks during the first two times I had seen her. I was lucky the second time to see her but yes when I got caught she would taunt or talk. I was never really allowed to see her just hear her as she let me go. But the time I saw her she didn't look to well."
Four years ago...that was around the time she came to see me...she wasn't well. She had blood poisoning and a crack in her skull. I had to literally take care of her for a week and hide her. Not even Genma knows about this visit and even I have to lie about it to him.
So he knows her...well sort of. She wouldn't tell him anything though and I doubt she trusted him. I bet she was using him.
"You never know she could still be alive."
"By now she would have a family Iruka-san."
No I don't think so...wait was I just thinking...No no that would be wrong. Does he...was he in...I have to ask.
"Kakashi-sensei?"
"Hmm?" He looked up from the floor... was he embarrassed?
"Well I want to know this one last thing before I go."
"Sure I guess there's no harm, you know too much as it is."
"Did you... I mean...were you..."
"In love with her?"
"Um yes were you?"
"If you had asked me then I would have probably said yes, but now I'm not so sure. A person can't love what they don't see or can't have. I had little time to think of that when I was caught I was more concerned with getting out and killing her. Not that I could do it, she never hurt any of us when we were patrolling."
"Thank you...I should get going I have to be up early. Good luck tomorrow."
"And you as well." Kakashi answered as the chuunin disappeared in a cloud of smoke.
He's a very odd man. I have to admit I feel a bit better but he's up to something, or will be up to something. It's been bugging me for a while.
Kakashi picked up his cup and walked to his kitchen. The room was dark and the small mess in the sink was lit up by the light filtering through the window.
I Think I'll do those when I get up...there's no point now.
Pouring out what was left of his tea he looked to the moon. Was there a chance she was alive, and still the same person he knew then? He had changed over the years and he doubted she would even like the man he was now.
Like him she was a shinobi and ANBU something was to be said for that. She was foreign and he should have killed her for trespassing. She never let him catch her, instead he was caught every time.
She was smart that much he could give her but gullible. It was that gullibility that caused him to befriend Genma in the first place. They knew each other...he found that out quickly when he caused Genma to let something slip when they were out drinking.
Since Genma was with him on this little 'trip' he might was well get to the bottom of the uneasy feeling he'd been dealing with for years. He might find out why she was in the village...probably getting information or something.
Running as hard as he could Iruka had decided one final time to see Genma; he had to pass this bit of information on and fast.
Reaching the apartment he noticed the light was out but banged on the window anyways.
"Iruka it's one in the morning you should be getting some rest! You'll be leaving in a few hours." Genma yawned as he opened his window and stuffed a balled fist in one eye.
"I know and no I probably won't be sleeping, this is important."
"What can be so important now?"
"I went to give Kakashi the scroll." Iruka huffed as he tried to catch his breath.
"Uh and so you ran all the way here to tell me that...how nice, thank you Iruka...ARE YOU NUTS!" Genma growled. Iruka moved back a bit but was expecting that.
"No I'm not, hear me out." Iruka jumped into the room and leaned against the wall grabbing his knees still heaving from exertion.
"Alright spill it before I turn you into a pin cushion."
"He knows her!"
"Uh who?"
"Akane." Iruka had just regained his breath in time to catch the scared look on Genma's face.
"Who knows Akane?" He must have been really tired to not catch on right away so Iruka waited for his friend to get the idea. "Wait! Kakashi knows Akane?"
"Yes that's what I said."
"What he probably did was see her here in Fire Country, they fought and she ran it's normal. I ran into her once and we had no choice but make it look like we didn't know each other." Genma was now walking back to his bed stifling a yawn.
"No he said he went on his own to find her. Or I think he was hinting at it, he didn't actually say it."
Genma froze.
"Okay now your scaring me I have no clue what you're getting at."
"Well we were talking."
"Most people do that, lately you seem to be doing it a lot!" Genma grumbled.
"No I mean an odd talk...I started it. I know, but he kind of kept going."
"Uh huh." Genma rolled his eye for what felt like the tenth time.
"And well he told me."
"And exactly what was this about...hmmm... his missions? He doesn't normally just talk."
"No he did really!"
"Uh-huh and so what did you get him to talk about?" Genma was now standing over Iruka with crossed arms.
"I kind of got him talking about his non-existent love life I guess."
"And how does Akane fit in with this."
"Well I kind of told him about the troubles I had with her...but I hid who it was I was talking about."
"Go on."
"Well he said he didn't like anyone from the village...you know I feel like I'm gossiping like a twelve year old girl."
"You are." Genma now laughed. "But go on I think I want to know more of what he never told me."
"Uh well he said the women here were boring."
"Yeah he told me that." Genma snorted.
"Why?" Iruka was now confused "Why would he think that?"
"I'm not to sure I guess he just found talking to them boring."
"Well anyways, I asked him about his past if there was anyone and that's where she came up. He described her from personality to physical looks, minus the face.
Iruka took a deep breath.
"He said he was falling for her then...or something like it. He thinks she's dead or married to someone."
"Well then good better for us then."
"No not good if he sees her then what?"
"He won't she's much better at hiding now, trust me."
Iruka rolled his eyes. "What if he is in love with her, he could be in danger, Tsunade could kill him for it."
"Iruka stop and think." Genma grabbed the smaller man by the shoulders. "She was using him to get information. If anyone can fool Kakashi it's her, I told you that. You should know better; you know her better than I do. Besides Kakashi wouldn't 'love' anyone he's not heartless but he doesn't know how to love someone."
"Yeah true but if she..."
"Get real, she liked you...I knew it from the start."
"No you're wrong, She was the one who agreed with me."
"Yes but she was protecting you."
"I don't want to be protected I wanted to protect her."
"I know that but she's the one who..."
"I think I'm going to go, talking about her just makes this all seem more insane. I swear he's her type."
"You worry too much besides so what if he is. He can keep her out of trouble neh?"
"Yeah or get her into it."
"If I recall correctly you got her into binds too."
"Yeah but not like he would, look I should go get some sleep I have to go in about four hours."
"Yeah you should but don't worry about it, Kaji might be able to help you out with it."
"If we find him."
"You will, if not he will find you."
"Yeah he does have Akane's sixth sense but still..."
"Just get out okay I want to sleep."
"Geezz fine!" With that Iruka left. Feeling even more worried.
Once at home Iruka had managed to drag all his ANBU gear out of his closet. Everything was where he had put it. The last time he had to use this was four years ago, but now it all felt alien to him. Did it even fit? Probably better than it did then. He mused as he placed it in the living room near the wall.
Sitting on his bed he went through all the information he had gotten from Kakashi.
Is it possible he made it all up to get me all riled up like that? Did he already know? No that's not it.
Smoothing out his pillow Iruka looked out the window.
Damn it Akane if you were using him, you're a genius if not you were making one big mistake.
Looking back at his pillow Iruka leaned back so he was laying prone on his bed. Getting sleep was more important to him now. Slowly over time the ceiling had dimmed and became fuzzy and eventually black as sleep took over.
TBC...