AN: Sorry for the delay! Here is the next chapter. This Mission 1 is becoming longer than originally thought, so please bear with me.

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Mission 1 (part 5)

Kyou (Rin) POV:

It was a little after midnight when I woke. Was it the heat? Did I have a nightmare? Then I could feel the grainy feel of sand and tracing the chakra infused sand slowly come into my room and sorrow filled me. I looked over to the side and Gaara was there with a murderous look as the sand started to surround me. Gaara... I sighed and went over to him quickly as possible before he could direct the sand to grab me. Then hugged him gently.

It doesn't matter if he realizes I'm a ninja or that I am not as weak as I often portray. I will still have the henge, so it won't matter. I hope this will stop him from trying to kill me... How many times did he have to kill someone with his sand, because they see him as a demon? How lonely he must feel in this house where even his family fears him and stay away from him. I truly want to be his friend.

He as well as the sand froze for this was the first time someone hugged him without the sand in between and hurting them. The sand fell to the floor and I pulled back to look him in the eyes. I smiled as I said, "I only want to be your friend, Gaara. I didn't mean to scare you or make you think I am after your life." He stiffened and I saw guilt in his eyes as he looked away from me. We were the same height, so it wasn't hard to see his eyes. I stay smiling as I gently hugged him again for a moment before letting go and taking a step back. I said as he still was looking away, "I'm not mad nor will I ever hate you Gaara-san." -Gaara looked back at me- "I want to be your friend and that means that I will be here for you whenever you need me, and I won't judge you." I saw a spark of hope and another of doubt, but most surprising of all is the small smile that appeared. It made my smile bigger even though his disappeared quickly.

Then the sand came up and grabbed my arm encasing it. Gaara froze with a bit of a fearful look, his eyes were wide, mouth slightly open, and shoulders tense. The sand crawled further up, and I watched it with fascination, but Gaara was silently freaking out. His sand smelled of blood and was warm like it was sitting in the sun. It didn't hurt as it crawled up my arm. I could see from the corner of my eye that he was concentrating very hard as he glared holes in the sand which made it crawl up slower and made it pause a couple of times. It seemed to forcefully and willfully keep going until it went up the side of my neck and covered my cheek. I didn't move but I made sure my face looked confused and a bit worried. I would have tilted my head, but Gaara said, "Don't move. I am trying to stop it. I can't really control it." I stay frozen and Gaara took a breath, but a look of defeat showed on his face with shame. My eyebrows pinched into confusion until the sand move at its original speed. I felt it squeeze my arm much like one would squeeze a hand and it shifted until it cupped my cheek. It felt warm and I couldn't but smile at the feel.

My eyes went to Gaara and smiled. His eyes looked unfocused and there was a lot of confusion until I said, "Gaara-san?" Gaara eyes focused again and the sand drifted back down, but not before I felt a small sting of pain on my shoulder. It made me wince which had Gaara come closer to look. I looked too and just under the collar of my shirt a crescent moon mark was there that was quickly dripping with small drops of blood. His eyes widened as the blood stopped but the mark remained bloody. I pulled out a cloth from my pocket and wiped the blood away and the mark became a scar which I traced over with my finger. It felt a little rougher than the rest, but not enough to bother me and I liked it. I looked up at Gaara with a smile about to tell that I did when I saw he was sad and scared while slowly backing away.

I saw he was about to run so I said, "I like it." It made him freeze and slowly look up at me. I smiled and said, "I like it. I always wanted to get a tattoo of the moon, but Kabuto won't let me get one until I was older. Thank you and your sand for giving this to me. Can I consider it a mark of our friendship?" He stood there dumbfounded.

This must be the first time the sand didn't hurt anyone. I am not lying since I really did want that tattoo. Good thing it can be seen through the henge otherwise our cover is definitely blown. This one will definitely stay a scar. Since I couldn't put up a barrier Kabuto probably is standing outside the door. I have to be careful.

I smiled and ask, "Gaara-san?" His eyes seemed to focus again and nodded. The spark of light earlier grew a bit and he smiled that small smile of his again. I felt Kabuto's chakra coming closer towards the intention of going to the bathroom missing the KI that had admitted from Gaara towards me. He must have learned to hide it when he kill some people. His siblings are still asleep, and Kabuto hasn't notice Gaara in my room. Now that I think of it, even I didn't notice until I felt the chakra in the sand. Normally this mark should be hidden but since Gaara accepted that it is a sign of our friendship I can't hide it. Kabuto is going to be so suspicious.

Gaara stiffened as Kabuto passed my room for the bathroom and relaxed a bit after we heard the door close and lock. We both said "Good night" to each other and Gaara went back to his room. I sat on my bed and stared at the door and kept tracing the mark without noticing that I was doing so until I rubbed a still sore spot. I waited for Kabuto to come in once I heard the bathroom door open, but he only went back to his room and went to sleep. Disappointment flowed through me at Kabuto's lack of ninja instincts and relief for Gaara to have gotten back without notice which will let everyone have a peaceful night's sleep until the morning. I laid down and let sleep take me once more, hoping for the empty sleep that I rarely receive.

I did get the empty sleep that I rarely was able to experience for once though quickly jolted out of it from Kabuto walking passed my door. I sighed for instincts to wake me up instead of being up early which was a new fact to Kabuto shows how comfortable I am here. Kabuto paused by my door but sensing I'm awake now he moved on to the kitchen below. I got up and I noticed a little snake under my pillow. It was the same one from before and I put up a privacy barrier and it came out again. It un-curled itself and a scroll 'poof' into existence to so I unsealed it

It read in Orochimaru's handwriting:

"I have read your recent report about the behavior of the citizens reacting to Rin trying to become friends with Gaara of the Desert. Since they won't accept our Rin anymore, she will become a ninja in the academy. Rin, continue to become friends with Gaara and his siblings. The children you were once friends with are no longer needed so feel free to break their hearts. It would be interesting to see their reactions to a cold Rin. Rin still try to keep a lower profile that other nations don't know of you.

Kabuto, I will send another scroll later for your different orders.

Rin, if you run away now, I will have Kabuto hunt and kill you or give you over to those we saved you from.

Love,

Orochimaru-sama"

I sighed with relief and gave the scroll back to the snake who went to await Kabuto in his room. I then grabbed some clothes before going into the closest bathroom. I took a quick morning shower, after locking the door. Locking a door won't really keep people out anyway, but it is basic etiquette, right?

Once in the new clothes I went back to my room and threw my clothes onto my bed as I toweled my hair dry as best as I could. I was wearing a grey shirt that had a lower neck line to showed off the mark and brown shorts that was a matching color of the mark. The mark looks brown instead of black and is on my collar bone instead of my shoulder near my neck thanks to the henge. I had put this outfit on to show my pride in being Gaara's friend and to show that I am not weak. Once I deemed it was dry enough and after brushing it, I went down for breakfast quickly. It annoying that I actually have to take care of my long hair. Dammit Orochimaru and your weird long hair requirement for this mission. When I entered Kankuro was sitting at the table waiting for Tamari to finish cooking the food, Kabuto was drinking a cup of freshly brewed coffee, and Gaara was not down yet.

I hesitated as I glanced from Kankuro to Temari, before Kabuto said, "Kyou, good morning. It is ok to sit down. I already asked if Temari-san needed any help." I internally sighed and probably externally relaxed as I sat down next to Kabuto who was started to read a scroll that he pulled out of nowhere. I am pretty sure that is Orochimaru's hand writing. -sigh- Kabuto you make me worry and question how you became a ninja sometimes. Kankuro was obviously and purposely not looking at me as he watch Temari cook and winced when she started to burn the food. The table was already set for all of us, including Gaara, so there was nothing really for me to do except watch Temari. She finished quickly and Gaara came in with a wince as he looked at Temari. He sat next to me while Kankuro subtle or at least tried to be moved his seat a little more away from Gaara. Gaara seemed used to it so he just passively watch Temari as she started put the food on the table.

If Kabuto had not told me to sit down, I would have helped her. Once we were all sitting down, we served ourselves. We all started to eat in silence along with Gaara and Kankuro who was watching me intently along with watching Kabuto. I caught Kankuro's gaze and tilted my head slightly in question to which he subtly shook his head, but Kabuto notice so I shrugged and went back to eating. It wasn't until Kabuto took a bite of some of the overly burnt eggs without noticing it and made a grossed out face for a moment to which he quickly hid. I smiled as I continued to eat my food with more enjoyment, and he is being big brotherly lightly kicked me under the table at my internal laughter at his mistake. The rest of the meal continued in silence until we all finished the food. I got up to do the dishes that lead to a relieved Gaara and Kankuro. Why don't they like doing the dishes? Kankuro crossed his arms on the table and rested his chin on them as he stared at Kabuto as if waiting for something while Gaara leaned back into his chair as if not wanting to be in any fights. Kankuro seemed to be wrestling with the food in his stomach but was trying to hide it and Kabuto just sat back sipping his coffee as if he was trying to drown out the taste of the food he just ate. Temari stared at me and glanced at Kabuto every so often as if trying to read him, no doubt having saw his face when he ate the eggs.

Kabuto took notice, but pretended like he didn't notice for a while then Temari finally asked, "Kabuto-san, would you like another cup of coffee? How was my cooking?" He flinched -Seriously Kabuto and you're a ninja- and nodded as he said, "Thank you" as she did it. After another sip of his coffee, he replied, "Temari your cooking is delicious. Thank you for cooking breakfast." Kankuro eyes widened as Gaara stiffened and Temari smiled, before she could say anything Kankuro said, "You can't be serious! You, even, made a grossed out face when eating her eggs. Temari sucks at cooking!" Kabuto looked like he didn't know how to respond so he looked over to me, in turn I look back at him and said, "Don't look at me. I like her cooking." Kankuro looked at me as if I was crazy and I finished the dishes and turned around for I knew Kankuro was going to say something. 5. 4 .3. 2. 1… "Do you have any taste buds?" he asked.

I shrugged and said, "Our village was destroyed by rogue ninja so me and my brother had to take care of ourselves. While Kabuto went on missions, I figured out how to cook. Food is food and it is better than starving to death, especially when you have no idea when the next time you will get food again." This made Temari stare at me wide eye, Kankuro shut his mouth, and Gaara stare with curiosity. Kabuto sighed which made my shoulders stiffen reflexively as my eyes went directly to him as he got up to put his hand on my head so he could ruffle my hair affectionately. I relaxed and looked at him in confusion when his hand abruptly stopped. He was staring obviously upset not at my face then remembered the mark, so I studied his face instead. He noticed that I knew what he was staring at and the fact that I wasn't nervous about it clearly upset him more.

Before Kabuto could say anything Temari asked, "Kyou, what is that mark on your collar-bone?" Gaara visibly stiffened and all three of the others noticed which caused both Kankuro and Temari stiffen with concern and Kabuto narrow his eyes at me. Gaara spoke up before I could defend him by saying, "I went to kill her last night like I do with most strangers. She proved that she only wanted to be my friend and isn't a threat, so I calmed down enough to not kill her, but my sand moved on its own. It made that mark on her..."

Both Temari and Kankuro looked at me with worry and concern while I knew Kabuto is pissed that I let it happen, especially since I wanted a tattoo like this ever since he knew me well enough. I smiled and said, "The sand could have killed me instead of giving me this mark so I figured since it only did this that I could take it as if it was a sign of friendship. I always wanted a tattoo like this anyway, so I like it." My statement helped Kankuro and Temari relax and I thought I saw a hint of respect in Temari's eyes, but I couldn't be sure. I looked up at Kabuto in the eyes and said, "I wasn't in any danger. Besides if I was you would have sensed it, right brother?" Kabuto flinched and relaxed both externally and internally but kept his frown in a disapproving way as he said, "You know with the mark it will be hard for you to go undercover missions until you learn a technique to change your appearance." I shrugged and said, "I am just going to start the academy so I'm not worried. Besides I don't mind people knowing that Gaara and I are friends. If I did, I wouldn't be wearing clothes that showed it in the first place." I saw Temari smile out of the corner of my eye, Gaara visibly relaxed and seemed happy, but Kankuro seemed upset and his dislike for me grow. Nothing more was said as we all went to get ready for our own day, but I did give Gaara a friendly shoulder pat and smile as I walked passed to my own room to get ready for graduation.

Well it won't take much longer to become Temari's friend, I'm now officially friends with Gaara, but Kankuro will take a while. I'm not surprised though since he doesn't understand Gaara. Kabuto will probably yell at me later for this mark, but I can use the fact that if I didn't let it happen it would completely destroy our cover and it would make it so that I couldn't become friends with anyone.

Kabuto went to the Kage's tower as I went to school for Graduation. My friends from before tried to come talked to me, but our other classmates wouldn't let them come close. Jun was the only one who was able to give me a hug as we hid when everyone was moving to meet with the parents. All the parents came just before the ceremony started. Kabuto wouldn't be able to come until later, if he able to come at all.

We were in an empty classroom. The others were able to sneak in and we were able to talk. We all gave each other hugs and "Congratulations." Ai and Saki were hugging me, and it felt as if they wouldn't let go. Kirito was quiet and would have seemed indifferent if he didn't have a hand on my shoulder. Yuki was an absolute mess of tears and Jun was silent as he waited for his turn again. I hugged them all though I didn't cry and smiled sadly the entire time. Ai was the first to let go and smiled at me. Kirito moved his hand to squeeze my arm. Yuki stop crying and was staring at me with an almost creepy smile. Jun stand beside Yuki trying to understand her with a worried expression. They started whispering to each other as Ai was trying to talk Kirito and Saki to let go. Saki just moved to my other side, so she was also touching Kirito when we heard Jun take in a deep breath. The four of us turned to look at him in confusion and his face looked shocked. I tilted my head in confusion until his smile turned into a hard line. Yuki asked, "Kyou, where did you get that mark?" I reply calmly, "This is a mark that Gaara-san's sand made on me as a sign of our friendship."

Here comes the trouble and their anger. This is so annoying, and I just wanted to say Congratulations before not being friends anymore...not fight with them. I am lucky that Orochimaru said I didn't need these friends anymore. I just hope that their parents don't come as we are talking.

Tension filled the room as Saki pulled away quickly, Kirito let go as if touching me burned him, and Ai stood with a sad frown. Jun looked pissed as he said, "A sign of friendship. What about our friendship? Even if our parents don't want us to be friends, we still can be." I crossed my arms and said, "Your parents have made it clear that I'm not allowed to even talk with you even in school. They also threatened my life for just trying to come near you. I care and happy we were friends, but I'm not going to try to be friends if I'm going to die for even saying "hi" to you." Jun asked, "You won't try to be our friends because our parents threatened you, but you will be friends with that monster when his very existence threatens you?" My own anger sparked, and I couldn't help myself from saying, "He is not threatening me, and he could have killed me when he gave this mark. He didn't, instead he gave me this mark of friendship when means he won't kill me. He is not a monster and I am proud to be his friend!"

He won't ever kill me. They really thought that I would go for being their friends while risking my life. Their parents that they completely agree with don't want us to be friends since I'm trying to be with Gaara so wouldn't they think the same. Do they really think they are so worth being killed just be saying hi. I am happy I didn't grow up here and that I don't have to keep dealing with them.

Pain showed in all their eyes as the three moved to stand behind Jun and Yuki as if they were scared of me. Jun took a breath and said, "You do know he has killed many people just because he wanted to. He can control who he kills yet didn't care before. He is a monster and he will always be. You don't have to be our friend, but at least accept that he is a monster." I dropped my arms so they could hold the desk I moved to lean against and shook my head a little. I looked up at them and said, "I am proud to be his friend. If I wasn't, I would have hidden the mark with my clothes easily, but I didn't. I know he has killed many people, but that doesn't make him a monster. I will never see him as a monster." Jun looked like he was about to shout when I interrupted him firmly with, "If killing many people by choice makes you a monster then every ninja would be a monster." This left them stunned and I could tell they were unable to counter my statement.

Calm down or you will completely break the cover. I won't let them think that anyone would become as nice as Gaara if living under the same circumstances. If I was Gaara, I would have destroyed this whole place a long time ago. I probably wouldn't kill Temari and Kankuro, but still.

I took a breath and moved to the door with a hand on the door. Once there I said, "If I was treated like I was a monster since I was born with people trying to kill me because of their hatred and fear, even I would become just like Gaara-san. I would even be worse than him, because I wouldn't stop that side of me and let it kill as it wished whenever it wanted." I moved the door open and walked out with the feel of my friends' pain and fear, but this time I didn't need to go back or reassure them that it was all a joke.

I am free...for now. I really want to go back to the base now. This place is so not worth all of this. I can only continue the mission, but if Orochimaru ever tells me to burn this place to the ground I will do so with pleasure. Only when Temari, Kankuro, Gaara are safely somewhere else, of course. Now to deal with the parents and to go back to the house. Maybe I can take a nap.

I stepped outside and it took my eyes a bit to adjust, but I keep walking until I was a little away from the school and parents. It wasn't long since I walked out that the ceremony started and when it came time for me there were several parents and their kids alike shouting insults and things along the lines of "monster lover" to which I completely ignored and kept a blank expression after getting my paper.

I left after that and was on my way back to the house when I noticed Gaara waiting at a nearby park shooting glances at the gates along with Temari who was on the swing. I couldn't help but smile and went over to them. Gaara noticed me first and for a second, I could have sworn he smiled, but it was too quick to tell. Temari notice Gaara getting up and then saw me coming over. She smiled and jumped off the swing to meet me by Gaara's side. Temari still had space between her and Gaara but far less than before. Once I got to them, they said, "Congratulations!" This made my smile more real and I felt warm inside even though it was only a little. It was something I haven't felt since Kabuto first started accepting me as his student.

We were walking back together chatting about what we should have for dinner. It was more Temari and I talking about it while Gaara nodded his head now and then. If it wasn't for the sand holding my hand, I would have felt like Gaara was being excluded since I was standing between the siblings. We just got to the doorstep when a sand ninja landed in front of us and immediately, I stood in front of Temari as sand surrounded us. Kabuto landed a moment later as the Sand ninja froze from seeing the sand and I relaxed. Kabuto said, "It ok. Kage-sama wants to talk with Kyou at the tower so he sent us to come get her. He would have just sent the Sand-nin, but since everything that has happened and the way the civilians are acting, he sent me too." This helped both Temari and Gaara relax to which the sand moved back to Gaara as they nodded their understanding. I smiled at them both as the Sand-nin went ahead and Kabuto told them it won't be long so Temari can wait for me to help with cooking dinner. Kankuro, who had come out to make sure Temari got there ok since we were standing there for a while, smiled in relief.

So much for getting that nap. It seems Temari is starting to like and trust me. Gaara is already protective of me and is not as tense around me. The two of them are also getting closer now that Temari isn't as scared of Gaara. She will probably lecture me for going in front of her since she is already in the academy and is supposed to be stronger than me. I got to remember to compliment Temari on not freaking out about the sand later as well as thank Gaara for put it there and reassure him it was a good thing. Kankuro seems to not hate the idea of me helping Temari cook, but doesn't like me at all since he is obviously avoiding me... I wonder why I'm being brought to the tower… it is probably because of what I said earlier.

I glanced at Kabuto as we walked to the tower and he ignored me except to for ruffling my hair affectionately once no one was looking. I saw several parents outside the building, and they looked upset, including Jun's parent whom looked more worried. We went right passed them and were walking the last steps as several officials and ninja came out of the office. I shared a look with Kabuto, and we went inside.

Kabuto doesn't seem mad at all. Considering the fact that he actually meant the affection earlier means I either did something right without knowing or he is proud of me for graduating… It worries me a little that I can't tell which it is. I doubt I'm in trouble since the Sand-nin didn't come back and their letting Kabuto bring me here…

The office had only the Kage and a few ninjas in it as Kabuto and I went in. Once we went in the Kage nodded and we stepped forward. He was blank faced as ever with that serious firm line that is supposed to be his mouth. The ninjas stood behind him as two left to stand outside the office. The Kage said, "I heard before that you, Kyou, were planning on going to a civilian school after graduating. There are many complaints to this and several people objecting to you be allowed to go. The same has been done for you to go to the academy. I don't think I can let you go to the civilian school." I sighed internally so that's what this is about and here I was worrying for nothing. Kabuto relaxed too from what I could see out of the corner of my eye. I waited a moment then replied when the Kage nodded for me to speak, "I was originally not planning on going to the academy, because of what happened to our village and my experience with ninja in the past. I am not against going anymore since Kabuto seems to be comfortable with his work and I can't just not go to a school. I also have felt more comfortable in the village and around ninjas that I've met. The ninjas that have been watching me also helped me become more trusting and less uncomfortable."

Kabuto smiled along with the others in the room, except the Kage though that is because he doesn't smile often. It was almost creepy with all these people smiling. The Kage said, "The ninjas that were your watchers have told me several stories about your encounters." I wasn't sure what expression I was supposed to show so I chose to smile with humor. He continued, "They were there to watch you and yet you are your friends played pranks on them. I would think that you and your friends would have had more respect for them. I also appreciate that you made sure no one got hurt and that the pranks didn't escalate." I clenched my fists, but quick release them when the ninja behind him took a step closer. I replied, "The pranking was only supposed to go on for a short while and to bring me and my ex friends closer. The pranks helped me get more comfortable since past experiences and I do respect them. I respect them, not as much as I do my brother, but I do respect them. I wasn't very upset with them since they were just following orders and I am the paranoid type myself."

The Kage nodded his head in understanding and gave a signal. Jun's parents came in through the door and moved to the side close enough to me so they could quickly stop me and far enough, so they were out of reach. I looked at them again with a little curiosity but turned my attention back to the Kage. I couldn't help but flinch at his stare. It was like he was testing me and trying to read my emotions. I've caught his interest and it seems that things are going to get more tricky. He really is pissing me off. I glanced at Kabuto out of the corner of my eye after I stood a little straighter. He was staring at the Kage but with a firm frown and I felt him put his hand on my shoulder. It felt protective and possessive, but it wasn't uncomfortable.

Kage shifted his gaze to Kabuto's hand then to Kabuto himself. I took the chance of their staring contest to look at Jun's parents. Well this is going to be fun. I bet it is about my last encounter with them. I wonder if Orochimaru will let me kill anyone before this all ends? I saw them stiffen to which I gave a bored look before moving my gaze back to the Kage. I wonder how they would feel if they knew I was already a ninja and trained at that. Their reactions would be hysterical and even more so if they found out who, more what I truly am. Kabuto's reaction would be great too. -Sigh- Orochimaru's humor and interests are starting to affect me. Maybe Kabuto is right I should keep a bit more distance for a while. I wonder how much longer until this mission is over? I could really use some hard training and some real sleep. Their staring contest must have ended just as I returned my attention back because Kabuto gave a little squeeze on my shoulder before putting it on my head and ruffling my hair in affection. I let a small smile show as I made it look like I enjoyed his affection act and internally I did. No way am I ever admitting to enjoying this family affection thing… at these not in their hearing. Jun's parents' faces held a mixture of emotions ranging from sorrow to anger and settling on seriousness. Kabuto stopped but he kept his hand on my head. The Kage staring at it then Kabuto for a while but Kabuto ignored the gesture to which the Kage sighed before he started talking again though he missed the look in Jun's parents' eyes of unease.

The Kage said, "Jun's parents are here because they have been a more neutral voice in both conversations. They were the closest to you along with their son so it must have greatly surprised you for them to follow the others in their actions. I would like to hear their personal honest opinions before this matter is settled. I will say before is that no matter their opinion, Kyou will be going to the ninja academy when it starts up again." Jun's parents stepped closer to the Kage and started by saying, "We originally believed that Kyou is a sweet young lady who has a great heart. We would have supported her in any decision had she made herself. We still believe what we did was right in our actions because Gaara-san is not stable, and I don't want our Jun to end up dead just for saying 'hi' to her." Pfft if only they knew their children wanted me to be in that situation themselves, I wonder their reaction. I wish I could snort but gotta stick to this cover.

The Kage nodded before asking, "You said originally that is what you believed. Did something change your opinion?" Well shit. Kabuto is so going to be pissed. Anger management training to death in the future I see you now. Why can't I be a kid and say things…. Oh, right I'm still an outsider. They replied, "Today, before the ceremony Jun and his friends went to talk with Kyou in secret which was highly against what we told our children." His mom glared at me and it took all my self-control to not obviously roll my eyes. His father continued as she still glared at me, "He told us he offered to still be friends in secret. He noticed that Gaara-san had made a mark of friendship on her to which he says she is proud to wear." Someone has nerves of steel or is an idiot to say that in front of Gaara's father. "He even tried to show her reason about something that is a fact that she refused to believe." This time I didn't stop my eye roll. "-She also said something that lead us to believe that her becoming a ninja in general let alone one of our ninjas is extremely dangerous and not something we would encourage, but also not argue against." The Kage straightened and I stiffened as Jun's parents looked at Kabuto to see if they wanted to see his position already about me being friends with Gaara and rejecting the olive branch. Kabuto ruffled my hair again to show his position that he is sticking with me and what I did was still under his belief. They frowned with sorrow before turning back to the Kage and steeling themselves again. They both continued, "Jun said that when she refused the friendship and the fact that they tried to reason with her she said something that lead us to believe she would be dangerous. She said along the lines that 'she wouldn't stop that side of her and herself kill as it wished whenever she wanted' which caused worry about her becoming a ninja."

I kept silent but I am sure my gaze hardened a bit, but I quickly relaxed as Kabuto's hand ruffled my hair. The Kage looked at us and Jun's parents looked back to see what had him pause and their jaws dropped a bit before they could stop themselves. I would have laughed if Kabuto stopped long enough for me to and I looked up into his eyes. They genuinely showed that he was proud of me though once he noticed that everyone else was waiting for our attention, he stopped but didn't remove his hand. I smiled and we both returned out attention to the Kage and others.

The Kage nodded to me to explain myself, "I did not say what Jun and his parents have accused me of saying. I did say something similar, but the way they told it is taken out of context. I told Jun and the others exactly, 'If I was treated like I was a monster since I was born with people trying to kill me because of their hatred and fear, even I would become just like Gaara-san. I would even be worse than him, because I wouldn't stop that side of me and let it kill as it wished whenever it wanted.' Also, they were trying to reason with me that Gaara-san was a monster for killing people to which I defended him in saying if killing people was what made people into monsters then all ninjas are monsters." This made everyone stiffen except Kabuto who had a blank face, but I was able to spy a smirking expression hidden deep in his eyes.

Jun's parents looked between exploding in rage and upset with being unable, like Jun had been, to counter my logic. The other ninjas expressions were firmly blank though the atmosphere held tension. I keep my eyes staring at the Kage as I set my mouth in a firm line much like he did earlier. I did notice that Jun's parents also paled a bit after they turned their attention back to the Kage. He was glaring into my eyes in a staring contest to which I didn't back down. I didn't glare and I also didn't look away, but I did reach up and took Kabuto's hand in mine.

The tension increase as our staring contest lengthened and the ninja as well as everyone else didn't dare move or try to break it. Kabuto I could tell was watching me out of the corner of his eye as he also watched the Kage. I noticed Jun's parents moving a few steps toward me and my fingers twitched, but I didn't break our contest. The interest in the Kage's gaze from our previous contest appeared again and grew when it was obvious, I wasn't backing down. It was obvious that he noticed my fingers twitch as did Kabuto, but everyone else didn't otherwise the ninja would have moved closer and Jun's parents would have stop trying to edge towards me.

They twitched again when Jun's parents got within my range, but I ignored them as if I didn't notice them. Kabuto held my hand firmly and gave it a small squeeze in understanding of why my fingers keep twitching. I can feel him getting uncomfortable though since I wasn't breaking the staring contest between me and the Kage. I could tell that Kabuto was looking between us as if trying to figure out what was going on beyond what he could see. I focused my attention back to the Kage before me who seemed to be becoming more and more curious about me along with growing amusement. He and possibly Kabuto were the only ones to see the anger flash and burn in my eyes before it disappeared. The Kage hid his mouth from everyone, but I could tell he was smiling. It wasn't every day that a mysterious child appeared and willing defied and challenged him.

Kabuto pulled me close to himself as the amusement left the Kage's eyes. I felt the soft wind of a blade missing me and understood why. The Kage turned his glare to Jun's mother who had just tried to cut my head off. She stood straight and she glared at me as if I was the plague. Jun's father had moved closer, but he actually looked surprised at his wife's actions. Jun's mother turned to the Kage when some Killing Intent, KI, was released into the room. I turned as well to see him glaring at her for interrupting us.

So, he was enjoying our silent battle. She is going to be in so trouble for interrupting our staring contest. Things are going to be difficult from now on. Kabuto will probably be able to fulfill his part of the mission, but I probably won't. If necessary, I will leave and fake my death to stay free from everyone. I won't become a weapon and I will stay free.

I thought as the Kage lectured her and gave her a big speech about not killing a civilian. Jun's mother kept her head down, but I could tell she only regretting the fact that she missed. Jun's father looked confused as if unsure about how he got there and how it all came to this. I stayed behind and close to Kabuto as he kept his hand on my shoulder. His hand kept me close to him and I looked up at Kabuto to see his expression. He was frowning and watching Jun's parents, but I could tell he was uncomfortable about what just happened. He squeezed my shoulder as if to reassure me, but I noticed that he was shocked by his emotions. Maybe he is shocked that he actually cares for me and not only the act for the mission. His hand was shaking a little, but now it is firm. I wonder if he truly cares about me or he is getting too deep in character. If he does care than I think I can trust him at least a little with a few of the answers they have been asking. I will tell him before the mission is over if he tells me truthfully this hope of mine is true.

Academy and Test of Endurance

After he stopped lecturing Jun's mom the Kage sent them home with strict orders to leave me and Kabuto alone. Jun's mom glare at me as I watch them leave silently telling me that she isn't done. The tension of the office became more relaxed when one of the ninjas by the Kage nodded at him. He turned back to us and we moved back to how we were before Jun's parents came in, except Kabuto kept his hand on my head. I tried to shift so that he would remember that his hand was there, but he kept it there when he usually moves it back to his side. I looked up at him and he looked at me as I tilted my head in confusion. He smiled and move his hand to my shoulder as he looked back to the Kage. I shrugged my other shoulder and looked back as well to see amusement in the Kage's eyes. The Kage then said, "Kyou, there are many who probably won't accept you, especially now that you are friends with Gaara. Are you willing to become a ninja of the Sand Village like your brother?"

I stood a bit straighter as I said, "Yes, sir. I will prove to them that I won't fall or break because of their fear and hatred." Kabuto smiled and affectionately ruffled my hair and I couldn't help the child-like smile from showing on my face. The Kage cleared his throat and we gave him our full attention. He nodded and said, "Kyou, though it is not often the case that students of the Academy skip years, but I think in your case it is best to do so. You will be in the 2nd years class and your brother will get you caught up in skill and knowledge in the next six months."

Both me and Kabuto looked shocked as were the ninjas behind the Kage. One even asked, "Why are you sending her to 2nd year?" The Kage while staring at me said, "She is already showed much promise over the time she has been here. There is also the fact that she survived the sand tornado when she first came here despite it usually killing civilians. Her recovery that was recorded was faster than a civilian's as well." Kabuto stiffened but I tilted my head and remained relaxed as if his assessment of these facts were just facts not something that was what he was hinting to. He continued, "The fact she is remaining relaxed and confused shows she is either native or she is smarter than she is letting on. While her companion obviously is showing telling signs throughout this conversation. It is more like he is the civilian and she is a ninja that is already decently trained."

This straight up pissed Kabuto off, but he hid it behind a fake smile as if he found this all funny. The ninjas stiffen from this as I and the Kage shared another staring contest. Kabuto ruffled my hair a bit to stop it and to take some of his anger out on me for breaking our cover. The Kage sighed as he said, "This is the story I wish were true due to the strength she has shown, but due to the way she has acted, and the immaturity of the pranking other ninjas show otherwise. There is also the fact she did almost die due to the sand tornado and that she isn't the best in her classes. She is barely passed all of them which is not something a spy ninja would do since it would bring too much attention. There is also the fact she purposefully befriending my son and defending him which not only brings massive attention to her but puts her at odds with almost everyone in the village. The only reason why she is skipping a year is so that she will be with my son who has obviously shown liking to her as well seems more stable in her presence."

The ninjas behind him relaxed and shook their heads. Kabuto almost glared at the Kage but remained fake smiling. The Kage dismissed us and as we headed out the door he said, "Kyou, I look forward to seeing the ninja you will become. Even more so what you accomplish as a ninja of the Sand Village." I nodded as I stepped through the door and we went back to the house in silence both of us deep in thought.

We didn't say anything until we got to the house. Kabuto broke the silence by saying, "The staring contest that was long and it probably would have kept going if Jun's mom didn't attack you. In the future don't disrespect the Kage with your behavior anymore. He isn't as unaware as you may think. I would prefer if you stay away from him as much as possible, because knowing you there is bound for a time when your temper will get you into serious trouble." I nodded my head with a smile and said, "I'll do my best, but he is the Kage so…" He nodded and said teasingly as we walked to the front door, "Barely passed all her classes and immaturity of pranks." I puffed my cheeks in a pout as I said, "I may have started the pranking, but I didn't really join in it after the nin changed to those who didn't basically threatened me every day." We walked into the house as I said, "Those classes were boring, and they were all about history or basics I already learned before we came here. I was lucky that I didn't fall asleep in the classes." Temari came to greet us after we called out that we were back.

I smiled when I saw her and said, "Everything is fine. Your dad was just telling me that I should go to the academy and become a ninja since the citizens don't really trust me anymore. I don't mind and hopefully I can end up in Gaara's class since I am starting as a 2nd year." She had a shocked look on her face as we talked in the kitchen as Kabuto went upstairs to his room. There was a soft thud sound as if Kabuto tripped which I had turned to tease him, but Kankuro was standing in the doorway with a shocked expression and a book was on the floor by his feet. I hesitantly kept my smile as I said, "Hi" and Temari caught my hesitation as well the tension. He asked, "You are going to be a 2nd year? How the heck did you manage that, especially since you have not been here that long?" I shrugged and said, "Kage-san, said that it was because Gaara and I are friends and that Gaara seemed to be more stable in my presence?" I added a more questioning tone to the end with a tilt of my head to show my own confusion. Kankuro seemed to understand what that meant and nodded though he looked uncomfortable as he picked up the book and sat at the table. I looked over to Temari as if to ask her, but she simply shrugged, and we went to work on making dinner. We were having pasta since it wouldn't be hard to make with the fact that we are mostly just boiling it in water. Temari had gotten some tomatoes for the sauce and there were plenty of spices in the pantry, so I taught her how to make a simple sauce as I made it. When it was done everyone was at the table and we all ate in silence after Kabuto shared the news by saying I'll be going to the academy and in 2nd year due to the Kage's orders which seem to brighten Gaara mood.

I went to my room and laid on my bed tired from all that happened today. I was taking a cat nap when I felt a small amount of chakra coming to me at a quick speed from the window. I opened my eyes to see another small snake, but this one was far more venomous and looked ready to attack me.

Honestly, they are sending a snake to attack me? I am almost tempted to just kill it. If it was Orochimaru's it wouldn't be allowed, but this one isn't. I wonder if it is a nin snake? From the way it is coming at me I bet it is. -sigh- well the only option I have is to call for Kabuto and try to sloppily get away. Maybe I should let it bite me… Never mind if I do Kabuto will be pissed.

I moved as I knew a citizen would and tried to get away. I called in a bit of a higher pitch, "Kabuto! There is a snake attacking me! Help!" He came running as well did Kankuro which was surprising. Kabuto threw a kunai and killed the snake instantly against the wall and Kankuro came toward me with what might be a worried expression. Gaara came in and Kankuro backed away quickly. Kabuto made sure to not only cut the head off the snake but to break the spine of it in multiple places. I looked up at Gaara who had a question expression and smiled apologetically as I said, "Sorry for worrying you. I just knew that I wouldn't be able to kill it before it bit me, so I meant to only bother brother with this. Thanks for coming Gaara. I'm fine. I don't think it bit me." Kabuto came over to check me and Kankuro left without a word. Gaara wouldn't leave so Kabuto gave me a look to which I just shrugged. He sighed but check my arms and legs for bite marks. He found none and he nodded as he went to tell the others I was fine and there is nothing to worry about after closing my window. Gaara was still sitting there as Kabuto left and I looked at him with a tilt of my head. His eyes were unfocused, and he was frowning but before I did or said anything they focused again. His face went back to blank, but the sand that had come out and was touching me move back toward him. I squeezed his hand in reassurance and he left back to his own room. Temari peeked in to check for herself and said good night. Everyone went back to sleep.

I closed my eyes as I put up my barriers for privacy. I waited for a moment to make sure the barriers were strong enough, but not detectable before focusing on the world outside my window. It took a few moments until I spotted the nin who sent the snake. He was still watching me through the window and inwardly I smiled as he shivered and looked around. A small sand colored doll in the shape of a scorpion was sitting behind him. It moved away towards the Kage's tower and to go back into its hiding place. The nin stayed out there for a while watching me "sleep" before leaving and two of the good stalkers came to continue the watch. I eased my barrier away and went to sleep.

It seems I have to be more careful. The counsel doesn't like that I am becoming friends with Gaara even if the Kage is. I have officially made their assassination list and I bet it is only the beginning. I doubt they'll try again until I'm allowed on missions. Wonderful, I made several enemies. But I wonder how long it will take before Kabuto accepts the truth of me from the scroll now that I can't exactly hide it. I won't show my true strength, but I will be an average lazy ninja. I am sure the Kage and the ones who pay enough attention will notice how quickly I will learn.

Six months of harsh training will not make a normal kid into a 2nd year with how dangerous it is. I am sure Kabuto will figure out this as we train, and I'll tell Orochimaru before just in case.

I woke before everyone else due to my usual training before school. I carefully put up my barriers as I pulled out a scroll so that I could write my report. It went like this:

There has been a development. Also, I'm mad at you for whatever you did to find more about me. The Kage has gotten suspicious and there is many whom aren't ok with the One-tails container having friends. Jun's parents even tried to get kill me, so I think I have a target on my back. I don't think anyone knows the extent of things. Kabuto is still native and has a suspicion about my skills. He may have gotten a scroll that suggests an assumption of my skills.

My cover will be that of a lazy ninja who is quick in learning and adaptation. I will only last one and a half years or the cover itself will be destroyed. There is also the fact that I WON'T be this Kage's weapon so if that is where this mission is headed, I will kill myself.

Remember there are many things you still don't know about me.

Sincerely yours,

Kyou

I sealed it shut in a way that Kabuto couldn't open it and put it under my pillow before carefully undoing my barriers though not before it looked like I was going back to sleep. I stayed like that until Kabuto knocked on my door. He came in when I didn't answer and moved the blanket from over my head. He frowned when he saw me smiling, but it disappeared when he saw the scroll in my hand. He took it and easily hid it in one of his pockets before getting up with a firm "You don't want to be late to getting ready for the academy." I got up and got ready with the same type of clothes I've been wearing since I got the moon scar. I will probably have to change my clothes when I start going on missions. I went down to the kitchen and helped Temari with making lunches since she already made breakfast. She didn't seem to mind me helping out with cooking or the other house chores.

It was the first day of training here and Kabuto seemed excited. We were outside the village and on a platform that was literally ten feet off the ground and just a flat stone like one. It was a circle which was interesting, and it was about ten yards across. We were surrounded by sand with no end of it in sight. It was relatively flat out here so it would be hard to hide out here. There were about four ninjas hiding though so I wonder how they do it. Kabuto was waiting for me at the center of the platform and said, "Now I don't know your limits and I doubt you know your limits so today we are going to fight each other. First in Taijutsu then I will be teaching you Ninjutsu, Genjutsu, and a few other things you need to know to be a ninja."

He got into the starting stance and I copied him. He nodded as I tilted my head and I ran at him. I went to punch him in the stomach, but he blocked with his arm. I moved back but I was too slow, and he grabbed my arm, hard. I winced and I tried to kick his leg, but he pushed me away as he let go. I didn't fall but I did take a moment to get my balance and ready myself. He was right behind me and me quickly round-house kicked at him which he barely dodged by jumping back. His face was funny with his eyebrows raise and his mouth relaxed. From there we exchanged some blows and then I fell. I kept falling from there and got quite a few bruises.

Kabuto stopped right when it was obvious that I wasn't really fighting back anymore. He knelt next to me and poured recovery chakra into me until most of the bruises were gone. There was silence, but the ninjas watching left as Kabuto helped me to my feet. We kept this up for a couple of hours. I made a barrier and sent out a strong sensory heightening of senses. I nodded at Kabuto once I was sure no one was watching any more. I was about to say something, but Kabuto attacked me. I dodged by instinct otherwise he would have hit me. I strengthened the barrier to beyond that of sensing chakra to also have a bit of Genjutsu to keep people from seeing us.

He continued to attack me, and I continued to dodge, but he seemed to not get any less annoyed with me. I blocked one of his kicks with my own. We were both huffing very quickly trying to catch our breaths. I pulled back and he glared at me to which I tilted my head. This seem to piss him off enough to yell, "Stop holding back! I want to fight you at your full strength!" I nodded and attacked at the strength he knew I had. I attack him purely with just my hands and legs. No weapons. I went to punch him in the face, but he blocked and I inwardly winced cause I know that had to of hurt. His face was a mask as we continued to fight. I was attacking him at every chance I got. He often dodged after that blow. I noticed him favoriting it, so I kept an eye on it. I went into attack it and he hit me instead. He was holding back more than I thought since he landed several hits on me. His murderous intent was strong as was his KI. He didn't stop when he started breaking my bones.

He is going to kill me. He is testing out the information from the scroll... So that is what all this is about. As much as I want to trust him with the truth. I don't trust him and if he knew he would be in serious danger. I was barely able to get away and stay alive myself. I won't be able to protect him or Orochimaru. I stopped fighting him and let him cut into me and break my bones. He didn't stop hitting me and cutting me until it was obvious that I wasn't fighting anymore. My blood was warm, and the harsh heat of the sun seemed too cool though I knew that was bad. I didn't care. I didn't let my healing ability go faster than he knew, but it hurt. I watched red slowly heading away and staining the grains of sand that had been on the stone.

It does hurt as each new wound made itself known until my brain went into numbness. I was so used to pain that after a certain amount I immediately went numb. He must have noticed after he got his emotions under control again. I probably looked like a mess and probably dead if I wasn't breathing. His breath was harsh and heavy. I felt his chakra pulling me back together and encouraging my body to live despite the massive amount of trauma it endured. It took several minutes of him using lots of chakra to heal all my wounds. His chakra was warm and though it hurt, it was nice. It was stubborn, but gentle and worried.

Once he finished healing me, I stayed laying there for my body to grasp the concept of being completely healed again. I had closed my eyes when he was healing me and now that his chakra was out of me, I was swirling my chakra around my body fixing and strengthening it. I opened my eyes when I felt him block the sun. He hovering over me and he actually looked worried. I smile as I croaked out, "It will take a lot more than that to get rid of me." He smiled and for once it wasn't creepy but had a small amount of pure happiness in it. I yelped in surprise when he pulled me into a hug.

It was a warm hug, yet I was uncomfortable. It was then that I notice that Kabuto was shaking so I awkwardly shifted until I could move my arms. Then I loosely hugged him and rubbed his back which made him stiffen and freeze. Then he hugged me a little tighter and we sat like that for a while. I ruined the moment by saying, "So… this means that you must really care about me. It also means that you aren't cold hearted as a scientist usually is." I felt him push me away, but I still smiled up at him. He was glaring at me until he moved to clean up all the blood that came out of me. We left after we cleaned up our mess and I put up another barrier around me as I changed clothes into new ones that I had brought.

Once I was changed, we burned the clothes that had been covered in blood. It was a good thing that I had several changes of the same clothes. He didn't say anything as we watched them burn but he did put his hand on my head. Once they were done, we went back though I had Kabuto carry me which he grumbled about as we went. His back was larger than I thought, and it was warm. His hair was a weird silver that seemed to have blue tint to it depending on the light.

As we went back, I closed my eyes and memories overtook me. The back I was being carried on was not Kabuto's but someone a few years older than me with short black hair. His scent was the thing that kept me calm and made me feel safe even in the worst of time. I was so immersed in my memories that a phantom of his scent appeared. It immediately relaxed my body and all the pain I felt for a moment went away. It wasn't until we arrived back at the Sand Sibling's house that I was brought back to the present with a quiet noise almost like a whimper a dog would make. Kabuto didn't say anything except let go once he put my feet back on the ground. He did give me a confused look and I avoided his gaze by walking inside.

I faked smiled as I helped and chatted with Temari as we cooked our dinner which was Lasagna. It has nice tomato and basil sauce and the snake from last night. Temari didn't hesitate to add it for the meat for this dish so I went with it too. We went into the living room to continue talking and Kankuro was there. He had some wood and what looked like a beginning of a small puppet. Temari almost smiled as I watched Kankuro work. I was interested in his work and watch to figure out his technique. I tilted my head at the sight when he saw me watching. I was watching intently so I had stopped talking to Temari.

He nearly smiled before saying, "This is going to be a tool for killing my enemies. A puppet made of wood. Something that is passed down in families here. You will probably never be able to use or make one." I frowned but shrugged with, "I may never be able to like you said, but I will know my physical limits." I turned and saw Temari frowning at both of us. Our eyes met and I shrugged as Kankuro started saying things under his breath as he continued to work until he got too focus.

It didn't take a long time for the Lasagna to finish cooking and as it began to smell I got up to get it. Temari was drinking a warm cup of tea she brought with her as we walked into the room earlier. I pulled it out as Kankuro came in and sitting down before I had taken it off the fire and set it on a cold wet towel. Some steam went up and I didn't pay it much attention. Temari helped me set the table and put all the food on the table. Kabuto came down and Gaara walked in as well once we were done. It wasn't long after we started eating that Kankuro asked, "What's in this?" Temari replied, "tomato sauce, pasta, some vegetables like broccoli, and a meat." Kankuro's hand froze between his mouth and the plate as he asked, "What meat?" I looked up and said in a deadpan, "snake meat." Kabuto merely smiled and kept eating as Gaara just kept eating. Kankuro's face was hilarious. His eyes widened with horror as his mouth was open with eyebrows hidden by his kitty hat and hair. I smiled and continued to eat and Temari gave her brother a confused look. Kankuro came out of his shock with a dark toned, "So you finally decided to kill us. I knew you were not a normal girl and shouldn't have been let stay in this village!" I didn't say anything and continued eating as if I didn't hear a word he said.

It is about time I try to figure out the next step. Kabuto doesn't seem to be obsessive about finding out my strength anymore. I doubt he ever thought to let himself be majorly hurt to cover himself. Now that he has accepted me and the strength that I have shown I can act as I wish. You do know that they are waiting for your reaction to Kankuro's statement. Kabuto would be wondering how I haven't let my temper explode. Thanks for reminding me and let's talk soon.

I looked up after my eyes focused and said, "Sorry, I was thinking about the ninja training I have to practice. Kankuro, what did you say?" Kabuto puffed in silent laughter but quickly stopped at Temari's glare. Kankuro looked pissed off and probably would have started yelling if not for Temari. Temari said with a bit of bite to it, "I told her to use it as the meat in this. Kankuro, you said too much. She is a citizen of the Sand now. You can't keep treating her like an outsider and a suspicious person." I went back to eating tuning out Temari's lecture and noticed Kabuto's questioning eyes with a little raise of an eyebrow. I smiled and tilted my head in my own silent question. He shook his head and went back to his food as I follow suit. I vaguely notice Gaara subtly watching in the back of my mind.

It was night time and I was watching the stars from my window. It was closed and I probably won't open it until day time. Kabuto told me to keep it closed before he went to sleep in his room. My window was actually open a crack as I crossed my arms to lean against the window sill. There were many stars out though I used to see more of them when I laid out on the roof before. Probably not allowed to do that anymore. I miss the freedom it felt like to feel the winds and stare at the stars. Will I be able to befriend Kabuto, or do I have to live in Isolation? I rather live in isolation but Kabuto is showing signs of caring about my existence aside from my strengths. It will be hard if my freedom costs his life, but I won't be a weapon or a prisoner again. I put my chin resting against my arms before I closed my eyes.

In the Kage's office, there was no one around and it was dark. The Kage will be back soon from his meeting and I will be able to listen in on more of his conversations. I was able to witness the ninja who sent the snake after me report to the Kage. It had not been long as I opened my eyes so that they were half lidded. I was able to stare at the stars until the Kage comes in again.

~The Kage was sitting at his desk working on the endless paperwork when there was a puff of smoke. There the snake ninja was in kneeling position looking down and waiting to be noticed by the Kage. My small sand colored doll in the shape of a scorpion was hidden well within the shadows of the book case. The Kage sighed as grunted out, "report." The nin kept his face down as he said, "Mission failed. She was not killed, nor did she kill the snake. She ran like a child and called for help to be saved by her brother. I didn't sense her use any chakra and was sloppy in getting away from my snake. If you want her to be killed it has to be away from your house and her brother nowhere near her. She is but a child nothing extraordinary about her." Kage's frown deepened with disguised at this news and he said, "Not extraordinary. She would not back down no matter how many staring contests we've had. She survived the tornado and Gaara is stable in her presence. She must be strong. There is no other explanation and she will be broken by me. She will become an amazing weapon for the Sand. Orochimaru is an interesting person. Maybe in exchange for her I will help him destroy the Village Hidden in the Leaves." The snake nin nodded his head but said, "Sir, the girl isn't to be trusted and she is too weak." Kage glared at him and said, "Leave. Go home and rest for I have another mission for you in two days." There was a puff of smoke and snake nin was gone. The Kage sighed and said, "Gaara is one great weapon but unstable now another is practically in my hands. The ones to not trust is Orochimaru and his pet Kabuto -" ~

Tingling in one of my fingers brought me back to the present and through the eyes of my doll. The Kage had entered the room with two elders and a few other ninjas. Once they were all seated, they began talking about everything that is going on in the village. My clone was scribbling down everything it hears like what happens every time my doll signals to me something is happening. She is always hidden by multiple barriers that were so thick that they could probably be cut by a kunai if they weren't for hiding her. This is why my chakra dropped so low before though I knew that Orochimaru did something so might as well play along. This time it seems that there isn't much for them to talk about. I should sleep soon and leave this to my clone.

"-Kyou, is not a simple matter. She is not going to die that easy and I don't intend to kill her. She will be an amazing weapon for us, and she stabilizes Gaara. There is no reason to continue the assassination attempts. She will only grow stronger and pledged herself to us by becoming a Sand Ninja." Adviser guy replied, "She is not worth the possibility of losing control of her and the control she would have of Gaara." Kage mouth was in that firm line that he seems to use a lot as he said, "No. She is not to be killed and will be treated as a ninja of our village until she is high enough in rank. She will care too much about this village and become our weapon willingly. This is my final decision." Internally, I smiled at hearing this. Too bad, you aren't listening to them. It probably would have saved you the humiliation and possibly your life in the end. It went quiet for a while and then they started talking about other things. I left that to my clone as I went to sleep thinking that the Kage is an interesting opponent.

During the next few weeks Kabuto has been training me in a spartan style and because of how hard he seems to be pushing me it doesn't look suspicious of me quickly learning and becoming stronger. So, when classes started at the Academy it was not much surprise on how I seemed to understand the concepts and was getting better grades. There were some like Kankuro who believed I wasn't fit to be a Sand nin and challenged me. I accepted all their challenges though both parties understood that we did this without Gaara around. Gaara had noticed and I did tell him, but it seems he understood that I had to fight my own battles. When I first told him about it, his sand came out to in case my hand which freaked him out a bit. Gaara has learned that his feels show towards me through his sand and often than not he uses that to his advantage. He had to learn how to keep a blank face around me in public, because our classmates and adults started treating me differently, not that I minded. I did end up in the same class as Gaara and sat near him in class.

The first fight was the most interesting. When Gaara had left to go talk with a teacher and a group of them came over to me. Gaara and I often ate inside, but today it wasn't that hot out and there were some clouds in the sky. I watch them come as I continued to eat my lunch. They were a mix of my classmates and a few from the third year. They came and stood five feet from me and said, "You don't belong here." I kept a blank face as I continued to eat my lunch ignoring them. Out of the corner of my eye I saw his face turn a nice shade of red in anger. A third year can forward and said, "You should listen when someone better than you is talking to you." I rolled my eyes though I doubt anyone them actually saw that, but since I kept eating until my food was gone it was like I was ignoring this one too. The third year said, "I am better than you since I'm a third year and about to be a ninja! If you don't show me respect, then I'll teach it to you!"

-snort- right like you could actually do that. Any real ninja would have remembered how I used to prank the stalkers therefore realize I don't respect many people. These people are so annoying. It might be fun to fight them though just to see their faces.

I looked up at them unimpressed as I stared at them and they glared back. Challenge me to a fight. You know you want to. I shrugged at them as if to say whatever which had its intended effect as the Third year said, "I challenge you to a battle! I'll show you that you need to respect us." I looked at him then said in a monotone, "I accept as long as there is one who is neutral to judge. Or out we going to fight until one of us is unable to do so?" He smiled as he said, "Fight until the other side surrenders or unable to." I said with a nod, "When and where?" He smirked and said, "Right here and right now." I didn't say anything before asking, "Who gets in trouble for destroying this place with jutsu?" His smirk dropped then lit up again as he said, "The loser, of course." I nodded as I stood up and moved away from the wall and towards the emptier part of the space. He did the same and after we got into our stances one of the group said, "begin!"

We both didn't move and stared at each other until he came at me. He went to punch me in the stomach, and I jumped to the side out of the way. He quickly changed his attack to a kick and I again dodge him. He tried to punch me several times and I dodged all of them. The others were shouting and cheering for him to hit me. If I keep this up, I will be too strong. I really hate to have to let him hit me. I kicked out as I dodge one of his punches and he fell on his face. It made the others silent and he looked up at me with anger. He got up and started to do hand signs so fast that an academy student would barely keep up. He shouted, "Kazekiri (Wind Cutter)," and as blades of wind came at me with the definite sharpness to kill each would. I did my best to dodge them, but they still cut up my arms and legs. It was similar to the cutting of the sand tornado. I was still standing, but I was bleeding and wounded. I slowly caught my breath and they let me and then I nodded at him. I ran at him and he dodged. We went back to Taijutsu. Then after I felt my vision wavering, I started doing hand signs slowed by the wounds. This made them all stiffen. He stood tall ready to take it. I said, "Kazekiri (Wind Cutter)," and it was the same jutsu. This freaked them all out and the others ran. My opponent dodged as best as he could, but even he was in a similar state as me.

He had a few less of wounds and they weren't as deep as mine. He came to me and I clenched my fist. He stop a foot in front of me and he stared at me. I stared back and we stayed like that for a moment as his eyes seem to be searching for something. Then he must have found what he was looking for and closed his eyes for a moment with a sigh. He opened his eyes and held out his hand. I looked down at it and tilted my head before my eyes went back to his face. He lifted it a little higher and I slowly held out my hand. He nodded and I took his hand. He smiled as he shook my hand. We both let go at the same time and some Sand ninja came. We both were sitting there, and the ninja asked what happened. The third year was about to say something, but I was quicker, "I asked him to help me train and it got out of hand." The others looked shocked but nodded their heads. The Sand nin were upset with me though we didn't destroy the area at all, but being a recent citizen… The third year was taken by one nin and I was taken by another both going to the hospital though by different routes. I did notice that third year guy was talking to the nin, but lost view before I could tell what he was saying.

The nurses helped clean the wounds and healed them up though only one was willing to do it. She was actually nice to me and secretly smiled at me a few times after she made faces while the others were lecturing me for getting so wounded. Once they were finished, I was left alone to rest, and Kabuto came in with a Sand nin. I stiffened until Kabuto smiled and sat down. I looked at the Sand nin and waited. He stepped forward and said, "Your opponent talk us everything. You don't have to be tense since you're not in trouble. He was lectured and left off with a warning. If you must fight, do it in an empty training area next time." I nodded that I understood and smiled in thanks. The Sand nin left and Kabuto ruffled my hair. I looked over at him though he didn't show it the worry he felt when he heard I was here was obvious. He shook his head as I smiled up at him.

After that some other students would challenge me every now and then. I would always accept their challenge though there were some who challenged me for fun. I did lose sometimes though when I lost my opponent always had the worse wounds between us. I did try to keep up in class though every class that wasn't about fight was hard to pay attention to. It was more often that Gaara and I would do the homework together to finish it. Temari would help when we were stuck on something.

It was night and the sun had faded a while ago. Normally I'd go to sleep, but I noticed my stalkers weren't around for once. I also noticed Gaara's chakra on the roof, so I snuck out to him. I stopped at the edge and saw that he was staring at the stars. He kept blinking as if he was tired and the sand around him was constantly moving. I moved to sit next him, and the sand didn't stop me at all. He looked surprised up at me as I sat there staring at the stars. My presence seemed to jolt him awake and the fact all I was doing was staring at the stars must have confused him. "The stars are beautiful, and it is amazing how many there are. I've always loved staring at the stars though I've not been allowed outside to do so recently," I said as I smiled up at the night sky. His eyes turned back to the sky, but he said, "The stars are normal and there is always so many. The moon is what I stare at." I hummed and said, "The moon will hide from you as well as guide you, but you can't see the stars in places with fire or inside. I remember a time where I was stuck in a place where there was no window and the only light was from the torches on a far wall. There was no hope and the moon was the reason I knew that the night wasn't going to be easy. I wished only for freedom and the new moon was the only time I was able to try for it. I don't hate the moon, but I love the stars because like the moon they guide you through unlike the moon they are always there, even if you can't see them."

We were silent for a while and a night chilled breeze brushed across my arms. I shivered at the sudden cold and the sand pushed me to sit closer to Gaara. He flinched at the fact the sand pushed me into his side. I smiled apologetically as I moved to where our shoulders were touching as the sand poured onto our laps into basically a blanket. I was tracing the few constellations I knew of with my eyes. It was only a little while before Gaara said, "The stars remind me of the people of our village far away and cold." I nodded and said, "The moon is important because it reminds you of yourself. Alone among many and very powerful." I felt him look at me and I looked at him with a sad smile. I looked back up at the stars as he did with the moon.

The silence was nice, and it felt safe here in this moment. I asked, "Did you do the tattoo yourself or did a group catch you?" He was quiet, but I waited. He said, "I did it myself after the death of my uncle. I realized that I was a monster who could only love myself. I had killed my mother by being born." Damn. His uncle must have been someone he really loved and trusted. I frowned and said without looking at him, "I don't think you are a monster. If you couldn't love more than yourself then how do you feel toward Kankuro or Temari? You love them even if it isn't that obvious. I doubt it was your fault that your mother died, and it was probably one of the mysteries of child birth that killed her. The person who told you probably was in grief and needed to blame someone else. The real monsters are those who kill because of hate and fear as well as torture the innocent."

We were both silent after that as we both stared into the night sky.

AN: Thank you for waiting for this chapter! Thank you for reading!

Please review and vote! - (on my profile's poll about what's next)

As planned, this is 1 of the last two chapters of this arc.

Any questions or suggestions or opinions about this arc so far?

Kyou/Rin: there is going to be no explanation of that random voice in my head is there?

Moonlight46: Maybe -shrugs- who knows.

Kabuto: There is too much affection in this chapter. I can't be that oblivious about Rin and her strengths.

Kyou/Rin: You so are. I mean you basically were healing me through my chakra when I was out cold so you should have been able to sense so idea about my chakra levels and strength. Also, what is with the fact and reasoning behind my fainting?

Moonlight46: I like having a bit of an OP OC and facts about you are slowly appearing like the blooming of a flower.

Kyou/Rin: You mean you are making them up as you go. So, you changed it this chapter because you were too lazy to reread your chapters or wanted to add to my "mysterious-ness" right?

Moonlight46: Yep. So, does anyone what to see Kabuto with cat ears and tail?

Kyou/Rin: Nice subject change. Please Review and vote so this author doesn't randomly change my character or create too many plot holes. I look forward to seeing how this Mission ends.

Moonlight46: You really don't. Or maybe you do. Everyone will know when I post it in the eventual future. I definitely will take a while writing it since it is the last of the arc.

Do you have any thoughts, suggestions, hopes, wishes, and/or ideas about this story or even my OC in general? Thank you!