Sorry it took so long for this update. I'll try to get them out sooner.

Kokoa wandered the streets, doing anything to avoid heading back home. Sasuke had been irritable ever since their argument over the Chunin Exam. She eventually gave in. He could take it. She didn't understand why he was still so upset. If anyone had the right to be upset, it was her. She was only looking out for his wellbeing. That's all Kokoa ever did. But Sasuke knew that. He knew she cared and worried. So why then was he so annoyed? Deep in her heart Kokoa feared the worst; that Sasuke knew about her feelings for Itachi. All these years Kokoa put on this act and pretended she had turned her back on the older Uchiha, but…was Sasuke beginning to see through that act now that he was older?

Rubbing her face out of frustration, she failed to see the person heading her way. Clash! She hit the ground.

"Sorry," she mumbled, rising to her feet.

"No, it was my faul – Kokoa?"

"Eh?" She looked up. Her eyes darkened.

"It's…it's been a while."

"What do you want, Ryuuji?" she spat, dusting herself off.

"Nothing, nothing. Sorry for running into you I guess." He shrugged. She remained silent, staring off to the side.

"How have you been?"

"Are you serious?" Her eyes snapped over.

"What?"

"How have I been? How do you think!" She crossed her arms.

"I...I haven't seen you around much. I sometimes see Sasuke. I hear he's taking the Chunin Exam. He grew up pretty fast," he chuckled. She stared with dull eyes, not amused. He fell quiet.

"Why aren't you saying anything?"

"Why aren't I saying anything? Because I have nothing to say to you, Ryuuji."

"Kokoa…I know I was harsh years ago, but hear me out –"

"Why? You didn't hear me out. All you did was take advantage. You pushed your way into my life, gave me no choice but to be with you, and when you found out the truth you laughed at me. You humiliated me; spit in my face! You treated me like garbage! Like I wasn't a person. The way you looked at me, the tone in your voice, the way you ripped the chain from my neck…you belittled me, looked down on me. Why should I hear you out? Why am I even here?" She turned on her heels, fuming, on the verge of tears.

She ended up sitting in the shade beneath a large tree; back against the trunk, knees to her chest, chin on her knees. Exhaling deeply, she blew a few strands of hair from her eyes.

"Why the long face?"

"Hm?" She glanced over, surprised to see the boy.

"It's a pretty tree, but you look really bummed out to be enjoying it."

"Uzumaki Naruto."

"You know my name?" he pointed to himself.

"Of course. You're Sasuke's teammate and Kakashi-san's student. You're quite popular."

"Really?" He walked over.

"Doesn't always mean it's a good thing though," she grinned.

"Yeah, yeah. Hey, since you know who I am, I think it's only fair to tell me your name." He took a seat across from her, sitting pretzel style.

"Me? Hm, I don't know. I don't like giving out my name. I am a shinobi after all. It's quite dangerous to do that."

"Oh come on. It's me!"

"Kuroki. Kuroki Kokoa."

"Hmm, that's pretty," he said, nodding his head. She smiled warmly at the blond.

"I see you a lot, especially with Sasuke. My friend, Sakura-chan, has been dying to know who you are. We've been seeing you with Sasuke a lot. At first we thought you were a friend, but you always check on him, and the other day you went out for dinner. We're kind of confused. And Kakashi-sensei doesn't really tell us anything," he pouted.

"Yeah, he is pretty useless," she chuckled. "I'm just…an old friend."

"Just an old friend? Even I can see there's more to it. Are you two…" He winked.

"I'm a bit old for him, don't you think, Naruto?"

"Hey, I don't know. Sasuke's weird like that!" His laughter faded as he spotted the sadness in her eyes; the sadness he knew all too well.

"So what's bothering you, Kokoa-chan?"
"Nothing really."

"Again, even I can see something's up. I'm a really good listener," he urged. It was hard to say no to such an innocent face.

"Sasuke and I got into an argument. He's upset with me. Then I just met someone from my past and it really didn't help my mood."

"Sasuke's a jerk. Forget him."

"Well…it was partly my fault. I pushed him, but…"

"Still. He's a jerk. I know. I have to work with the guy."

"I'm the one who has to live with him."

"Nani? You – you live with him? Together?"

"Yeah. Long story."

"I have time."

"Huh?"

"I have time. Even though you said you're a friend, I still don't know anything about you. You're still upset too, so I'm listening."

"Naruto…"

"I'm waiting."

"Alright, alright, BUT you cannot repeat any of this."

"Hm?"

"Everyone has secrets and a past. My life took a bad turn and it hasn't gotten any better. I still struggle with myself and with Sasuke. I'm begging you, Naruto, do not repeat any of this to anyone, not Kakashi, not Sasuke, no one. Please. Getting it off my chest would feel so good right now, but I need to know I can trust you. I feel that I can. There's something about you, but I need to hear it from you."

"Your secret is safe with me, Kokoa-chan. I may seem loud and hyper all the time, and I am, but I know when to keep quiet. Besides, I like you. I'll keep your secret."

"Arigato, Naruto," she smiled, ruffling his hair. "How much do you know about Sasuke's past?"

"When we first met he talked about killing someone and restoring his clan. I later found out he meant his older brother. He killed the clan and left Sasuke. That's all I know really."

"I see. Well I was a friend years ago before it even happened. I was involved with…I was seeing Sasuke's brother." She stared at her hands as she spoke.

"You were?" He looked up in surprise.

"He was always busy with work, more than I was, but we always tried to be together. We made time. Everything was fine until his best friend died…Shisui…and then Itachi broke it off with me. The next day Sasuke is in the hospital and I find out what happened. He told Sasuke what happened. He showed him with his sharingan. He said he did it to test his abilities, but…"

"You don't believe it."

"I loved him, Naruto. He saved me. He was my friend. He looked out for me, gave me confidence, made me smile. He was my everything and then he just left. He killed those people. I can't deny that, but I just…it doesn't feel right. Maybe it's denial. Maybe I'll never be able to accept the fact he left and didn't take me with him, but maybe I'm right and something's going behind the scenes. Anyways, because of that, I've been a suspect. Villagers, shinobi, and even the Hokage think I was involved, that I killed everyone, so living here in Konoha has been tough ever since. Being judged and labeled, whispered about, looked down upon, spoken rudely to. I'm sure you know what it's like, no?"

"Hu?"

"Being a jinchuuriki and all."

"You know?"

"Hai. I never thought I would be able to say it, but I feel your pain, Naruto. I understand. It isn't your fault that you're the host of the Kyuubi, and it isn't mine that Itachi left, but –"

"We'll always be judged. We'll always be held responsible."

"When he left, I didn't want anyone taking Sasuke in or moving him from home to home. He was a precious friend and Itachi's little brother. I took him in. We were there for each other. That's why we live together. We both loved Itachi."

"Not so much anymore. At least on Sasuke's part. I can't really blame him though. Still, he doesn't have to be a jerk about it," he pouted.

"Sasuke thinks he's cool and elite, but he's not," she laughed. "He's sweet. He really is, to me at least. He's just…he doesn't like showing emotion or letting go in front of others. He's also very competitive. But remember, Naruto, no matter how much he yells, or whatever names may call you, he has a good heart, and he cares about you."

"Nani!?"

"Hn, believe it or not, Sasuke likes you. He likes fighting with you, and competing, and proving he's better, but he doesn't hate you. He acknowledges you."

"Hmmm…"

"He always talks about you. Good and bad, but you're always on his mind. You're his best friend. It's a sick, almost abusive friendship, but it's friendship nonetheless," she smiled warmly. "I'm glad he has you. You're a sweet boy who dreams big. I like that. Keep an eye on Sasuke for me. Sometimes I feel like his mother, and well, I'm not."

"You got it. I'll keep that jerk in line!"

"Good! Thank you for listening, Naruto. I feel better. I just needed someone who understands."

"Mhm!"

"Because you've been so kind, I think I owe you."

"Ramen!?"

"Ichiraku?"

"Is there any other place? Come on, Kokoa-chan." Grabbing her hand, he pulled her to her feet and dragged her off to the busy streets.

"Kokoa, good, you've arrived."

"I was a bit surprised when you assigned me a mission, Hokage-sama," she commented.

"Mm, well yes, it has been a while, but you're good for this type of mission: gathering information."

"Where's the rest of the team?" She crossed her arms.

"Just me," a dark haired boy said. She glanced over.

"You'll be meeting up with another team halfway through. One of their members will join your squad while the others return to the village. Simple mission, but important," Sarutobi explained.

"We should probably head out."

"You're right," she agreed with her teammate.

"Be careful, and do well," the Hokage encouraged.

"Please look after Sasuke," Kokoa said softly. Nodding, he smiled, trying to hide the sadness in his eyes.

Zooming through trees, he looked over to her, a bit intrigued.

"Since we're working together, shouldn't you know my name?" he inquired. Catching up to him,

"How do you know I don't already know?" Kokoa stated.

"We haven't worked together."

"I haven't worked with the first Hokage, but I know he's Hashirama," she said dully. To be honest, she was getting a kick out of being so snarky.

"Excuse me." He shook a finger.

"What is your name then?"

"Nagakura Takashi."

"I'm –"

"I know who you are," he interrupted. "Kuroki Kokoa. I've heard a lot about you," he cooed, shaking midnight hair from his golden eyes.

"You have? Wonderful," she mumbled, turning away.

"Mmm. Three years younger than me. A jonin. Specialized in tai-jutsu. A suspect and possible contributor to the Uchiha massacre committed by none other than the Uchiha Itachi. Oh yes, I know a little about you."

"Look, I don't –"

"You've got balls. Guts."

"What?" she said in surprise.

"You're pretty hard for staying in Konoha. Haven't they driven you away yet? It's been a while."

"They drove me away a long time ago, but this is my home. I have nowhere else to go, no one to see."

"Well.." he smirked, referring to Itachi.

"You aren't going to criticize and lecture me?" she sighed.

"Whether you were involved in the Uchiha massacre or not isn't any of my business. As long as I'm alive, that's all that matters. We all have issues and things to deal with. If you did have a part, I'm sure you have some messed up reason."

"I wasn't though."

"No one believes you. Even I'm not sure if I do," he teased. "In all seriousness though, they still talk."

"Don't you think I know that? I still get visits from ANBU. My life is one big mess."

"All because of one boy."

"What do you know about it?" she scoffed.

"I'm older than you, remember? Everyone knew of Itachi, of his level, his skill, his status as an Uchiha. And wherever Itachi was, so were you."

"What's your point?"

"He was important to you, and now that he's gone you find it hard to be happy, to move on."

"You're wrong. I forgot about him a long time ago. He ruined everything. Why would I care?" she lied. She had to lie. What if this Takashi was told to keep an eye on her? To get some information? She wouldn't risk it. Kokoa worked hard to ease some of the pressure from the Hokage and others. She couldn't go back.

"I'm wrong? So he meant nothing to you?"

"I didn't say that."

"Don't beat around the bush, Kokoa," he chuckled. "No big deal. I've been with my share of messed up chicks, although none of them slaughtered their family."

"You think this is some joke? That Sasuke losing his parents and me being ostracized by the village is some joke?" she spat.

"No. The joke is the fact you claim to have forgotten him."

"Why do you care so much?"

"You've changed. When you were with Itachi you were always so happy, so involved, and proud to be with him. The same with his brother. Now Sasuke is…well he's pissed and vicious, but you…you're not angry."

"I'm not?" she sighed, tired of the subject.

"Nope. You're sad."

"Hey, you're not upset, are you?"

"Over?"

"Me picking on you like that earlier."

"It's fine. I've had worse."

"I mean I was curious, but I wasn't trying to make you feel like dirt, Kokoa."

"I appreciate it, Takashi. Thank you."

"How much worse was it? The harassment."

"It's always been bad, but one incident stood out the most. I tried getting over it because you know, it isn't that big of a deal, but…it hurt," she whispered as they walked.

"Hold that thought. We're meeting the other team up ahead. Let's get it over with."

"Alright."

"Yo. Which one of you is tagging along with us?" he inquired, brushing a few strands of hair behind his ear.

"Nagakura Takashi? The other team. Ryuuji, they're here for you. That means we get to head home. Finally!" a blond chunin cried. Kokoa's face hardened. Her eyes darkened. Everything about her changed. Glancing between her and Ryuuji, it hit him.

"I take it he was the one who hurt you?" Takashi whispered. She shifted her gaze to the ground.

"As troublesome as it may be, if he does piss you off, let me know. I could enjoy knocking some heads around," he snickered. "Yosh! Let's get this done. I have people and things waiting for me back at home." Takashi started off with his fists coolly jammed into his pockets. Kokoa followed, eyes never leaving the ground. Ryuuji sighed before heading off as well.

"I'm exhausted. When are we going to stop?"

"You're a shinobi for God's sake," Takashi scoffed. "Buuut, see that inn up ahead? We'll crash there for the night, and start fresh tomorrow. Then we can get this over with. I like an easy mission from time to time, but now I'm just bored," he yawned.

"I meant stop for like thirty minutes just to eat. Isn't it too early for an inn?" Ryuuji argued.

"We'll be fine. Besides, I'm in charge."

"Says who? We don't have a captain. It's only three of us."

"Kokoa, do you have a problem with me leading?"

"Nope."

"Ryuuji, I'm officially the captain. Now let's goho. The streets are crowded."

"I didn't think we could get away walking around so casually, but perhaps these crowded streets are the perfect cover. Lucky us. I must say, I am a bit tired. I bet one of those inns would be cozy, don't you think, Itachi-san?"

"I doubt staying somewhere public is a good idea, Kisame-san"

"Oh, it isn't, but it'd be relaxing," he grinned. "If we can't stay at a nice place, we can at least get some nice food."

"I don't see a problem with that…as long as you don't make a scene."

"Me? Make a scene? Nonsense, Itachi."

"You never filled me in on the mission details. I know it's basic, but I was only told that I'd join you," Ryuuji said. Kokoa turned her face.

"Come on. You can't still be angry."

"I'm not angry, Ryuuji. You just have no value in my life. You're nothing to me, so stop thinking you can win my friendship and forgiveness with your empty words and fake kindness. You humiliated me, and told me I was garbage. If I'm that much a freak, of a monster to you, then don't waste your time with me. Like you said, I'm better off alone."

"Don't cause a scene, you two. Honestly…" Takashi sighed, rubbing his face. "If you were smart, you'd lay off before she kills you. Have some respect, or take a hint at least, jeez."

"Whatever…so mission details?"

"Retrieve info, scroll, crap. Not much to it really."

"We aren't looking for anyone or tracking suspicious behavior?"

"Why? In the mood for a fight?"

"Just curious. Also, I noticed a pair of oddly dressed men. Not sure if they're shinobi or not. I can't sense their chakra. Either they aren't shinobi, or they're doing a damn good job hiding the fact," Ryuuji explained. Kokoa, who had walked off ahead, returned to her team, wondering what was going on.

"Which ones?" Takashi questioned.

"What is it?" she sighed.

"He just said he saw two weirdos and is being paranoid."

"I'm serious. You'd be lying if you said you didn't get a strange vibe from them," Ryuuji argued.

"I didn't say I disagreed. I just don't care. If they want to wear strange cloaks with little red clouds on them, then go ahead. Express yourself."

"Little red clouds…" Kokoa calmly scanned the street. At this point no one was too familiar with Akatsuki, their appearance, or their motives, save for Jiraiya and Orochimaru of course. While the two Akatsuki members were suspicious indeed, the Konoha team had no reason to worry. They had no idea Akatsuki existed. Besides, none of the three were expecting to see any familiar faces.

"Dessert? No proper dinner? Always breaking the rules, Itachi-san."

"Nothing wrong with a treat."

"You do love your dango after all," his partner chuckled.

"Yup, those guys," Takashi said, noticing Kokoa's gaze on them. "I'm not in the mood for trouble, and it isn't in our mission requirements, so can we please get to this inn? I'm sleepy."

"We should eat first," Ryuuji stated.

"I could go for some snacks. Dango sounds good," Kokoa said as she started to leave.

"Oh no. Check in and rest first. Food later. Let's go."

"Ok, but I need to hit the shops and buy something. Sasuke's birthday is coming up."

"Sure, fine, whatever. Later though."

"I wish something exciting would happen."

"Have anything in mind, Kisame-san?"
"Just some action. A brawl. Meeting an old friend."

"Why do you keep bringing that up?"
"I remember how you acted years ago when we happened upon a ragtag team of Konoha ninja. Just curious how much you've changed, Itachi."

"I turned my back long ago. I no longer have ties with Konoha or anyone in it."

"I believe you. Still…I'm curious. Well, it can't be helped. All we can do is eat and enjoy the pretty lights." The sun had started to set, and several shops and stands lit candles and lanterns. Leaning back, Itachi stared out into the street; the exact spot Kokoa stood only minutes ago.