Author's Note: ahh man I know I'm being slow, so sorry!

But I'm so happy! I got this amazing fanart for this fanfic by TrueGaaraRose, you should really check it out!

(http):(/)(/)we(-)areall(-)mad.(deviant)(art).com( /#/)d5lypvn

And this is my own fanart:

(http):(/)(/)(www).(theotaku).com(/)fanart(/)view( /)391741(/)far(_)beyond(_)the(_)truth

(Just get rid of parentheses!)

Far Beyond The Truth

Chapter 12

Deidara's POV:

As content and relieved as Ino was earlier when she left the bathroom, I didn't feel she was in the mood to talk. It wasn't as if she didn't want to talk –of course she would, who wouldn't want to talk with me? I'm fun as hell- but she seemed somewhat occupied. And busy. I watched as she made her way to the bookshelf, and stared at the dozens of books arranged on it.

"Aren't you supposed to be working?"

I'm not usually the one to start a conversation; in fact, I barely carry on with one in the first place. There isn't anyone I can actually enjoy chatting with. That was the only thing I missed about Sasori no danna. He may be a complete ass with his massive ego, but I always enjoyed showing him what true art really is. Our discussions a propos art amused me. All I have now is…Tobi. That stupid airhead. I'm so glad I got rid of him for a while. Teasing Yamanaka is much more fun.

"Aren't you supposed to be a guy?" She muttered smiling, not losing her focus on whatever she was looking for.

I sighed and rolled my eyes. Here goes this subject again. Like seriously, I don't look that feminine. Just because I have long hair does not make me a chick. Why can't they get that? Hn. It's not a surprise; I've never met someone who gets art in any case.

I looked up at the ceiling in absolute boredom. I had nothing to do so I started blowing some strands of hair off my face. I looked back over at Ino; she was still piling books on the floor. Was she really planning on reading all of those? Yeah right.

I turned my gaze back when she opened a certain book that seemed to interest her. I didn't know what I could possibly do so I just closed my eyes and let my mind clear out for a moment. Yes just a moment. Because soon enough everything crammed in my head. First, just how long will it take for my body to get back to normal? I have to gain my power back. If I somehow got caught, I'm dead. I was already lucky we arrived at night. Where's that annoying girly brat when you need her. I can't believe I'm stuck with these idiots. At least Tobi was helpful at times. My hand better be well-healed. Last thing I want is not being able to perform my art.

The sound of a book meeting the surface of the floor liberated me from these thoughts. I didn't care enough to check it out though. I remained in my seat with my eyes closed. As if I could move anyways. That's really shitty.

That led me to think of another thing. Where was I going with my plan now? So far, everything was good, as long as she doesn't remember anything about me or the Akatsuki. When that bastard called that name back then and she didn't notice; I was blessed. It's awesome to see the world on your side.

I took a deep breath and exhaled. It was so boring. I really wanted to blow something up. However there was one good thing that came out of this whole thing –other than my awesome plan of all times to catch the Kyuubi. I've never rested this much ever since I joined the Akatsuki. This bed here is way more comfortable than the crappy one back in the base. My head totally sinks in the pillow. Even though I was sleeping so much lately, I couldn't help but to remain sleepy. I was totally enjoying the nice breeze brushing in my face and the birds chirping outside. Usually I'd blow them up 'cause they annoy me but this time, I wasn't annoyed. Now I realized how much I miss the serenity even as a terrorist bomber. I need to clarify my mind somehow.

Squeak…

I spoke too soon. I didn't have to jinx myself. I wonder what made that girl get off her seat like that. Was it too much to stand up quietly? But I wasn't opening my eyes. Nope. Whatever it was I'm sure it's not worth it. She didn't leave me with that option though. I was forced to open an eye while shutting the other closed at the intense ache that restocked when I was held firmly by the shoulders getting agitated. That Yamanaka was shaking me hastily out of nowhere as if I had done something wrong. I had a mini heart attack at the thought of her gaining back her memory and trying to kill me. But, something wasn't right. She was…happy?

"Oh my god Deidara wake up! Wake the hell up! Look! Look!" She shouted excitedly almost gluing a book she was holding on my face. I jerked my head back a bit to clear my vision. It took me complete five seconds to actually recognize what the maniac had between her hands.

A Bingo Book.

Shit. Shit. Shit.

I couldn't make out what this thing was till I saw Hidan's picture. After that, everything became a blur. I lost sight of almost everything and I only saw colored smudges. That was it. She found out. And now that I'm helpless, I have to kiss my awesome life goodbye. It happened too soon though, I had to admit. Worst thing was that I didn't get to the fun part. That's really a shame. Although I don't understand; that's nothing to be happy about. Unless she had a thing for criminals…which I doubt.

"Look! Shikamaru neutralized this guy who's considered one of the most dangerous delinquents of all times! He did it! My Shikamaru did it! Can you believe it?!"

I blinked several times before I took in what she had just told me. What?

Does that mean I'm not busted? She doesn't know my identity? What the fuck…what?!

I let out a breath that I didn't know I was holding this whole time. I cleared my throat and watched as she held that book close to her chest and twirled in her place. I didn't say anything. I just kept watching. It's not as if I could. I was in complete shock. I saw her lips moving but I couldn't hear what she was saying. She pushed the book in my face again and pointed at something on the page. I couldn't focus on that. She can't see further into the book. I have to take it away from her. I have to.

But wait, her… Shikamaru? She knows the one who killed the supposedly immortal Jashinist? Don't tell me he's one of her teammates I had encountered earlier…So she already began retrieving her memory? Fuck. Even better. What should I do?

She kept rambling and rambling. I couldn't keep up. I couldn't concentrate. Try to think Deidara! Think about something! But goddamnit this headache! Just breathe. In, out. In, out. Why doesn't she just shut up? Shut up. Shut up. Shut up!

"Shut up!"

Slap

The room unexpectedly fell silent. All the talking that once filled the chamber was now hushed by a single sharp movement. Both Ino and Deidara's eyes were wide open in disbelief. The latter's right hand was still up in the air, as the bandages wrapped all over it began to redden. The Bingo Book left the girl's hand and met the ground emitting a noise that drew Deidara's attention to what he had done without intent. He looked up at the bandages on which blood started to expatiate. Then at the red mark on Ino's face.

Ino's eyes glistened as they got all watery. She slowly lowered her head in disappointment. She didn't expect him to do that at all. She thought he'd be happy for her. But looks like she thought wrong. Maybe she got everything wrong. Maybe he didn't really care about her. Could it be?

Deidara couldn't make out her expression. He tilted his head to the side, trying to look at her.

"Yamanaka…I didn't…"

He couldn't believe his eyes. How could he do what he had just done? He was strangely guilty. He didn't really mean it. How the hell did he even move his arm? He was supposed to stay still for a while.

A teardrop caught the artist's attention. He was about to utter something if Ino didn't turn around and walked away. She stopped after a couple of steps, seeming hesitant, then slowly carried on with her way towards the door.

Deidara kept following her with his gaze. It wasn't like him to be precipitous. And the last thing he saw of the girl before exiting the chamber; was her rubbing her eye sniveling.

He gritted his teeth and clenched his injured fist tightly until blood started to drip and stain the white clean sheets of the bed.

Fuck.

He cursed.

Shikamaru went back and forth as he placed one item after another in a small backpack. Food, weapons, extra shirts, he made sure he forgot nothing before going for his search for one of his closest friends. His mien didn't change. He still had his determinate somehow miserable demeanor. He quickened his pace. He didn't want to arrive there late. Maybe he could save her just in time. He didn't know why but he had this strange feeling that she was harmed. But he will save her. He vowed to himself.

He closed his bag and lifted it on his shoulder, turning around to set off from his apartment. He was greeted by an unexpected person laying by the door frame, however. Shikamaru's eyes perked up at the sight before him. Nevertheless they quickly faded back to their fortitudinous manner.

"You won't change my mind, Temari." He spoke calmly through his teeth, standing still in his spot.

Temari straightened up and dropped her hands which were folded over her chest. She stepped closer to him, narrowing her eyes in a way that illustrated bad news.

The man gave her a questioning look. He needn't to say anything for he knew she could undoubtedly understand what was on his mind.

"I have something to tell you."

Shikamaru shifted his weight and held his bag firmly. He gave her a slight nod designating her to carry on. He was in a hurry.

"You don't know the full story," She began, seeming uncertain in a way. "…about Ino."

The Nara raised an eyebrow, taken aback by her words. Come what may, he didn't want to hear the rest. They obviously weren't pleasant. However, he kept his focus on her, and tried to calm his breathing which seemed to accelerate.

"I saw her with an Akatsuki, yes. Actually, they were two," she paused after she saw her friend's face getting more anxious, but continued anyway. "..but that wasn't the only thing. Don't worry, she wasn't impaired, but that's because…she was helping one of them."

Shikamaru's eyebrows were to the ceiling. He couldn't believe what this woman was talking about. He absentmindedly let go of his bag, blinked few times in order to take in everything she had just said.

"This isn't the right time for joking, Temari." He warned, his tone getting more serious.

Temari sighed and looked down, rubbing her forehead with the intention of ending the headache that began to grow.

"I wish I were…I couldn't believe it myself…maybe I did see wrong…I know Ino would never do such thing! But…the way she sat next to him, and acting all normal around them…she should've taken that chance to kill him! I just…I don't understand…I didn't want to state that in front of the Hokage because I knew she wouldn't be a traitor…but maybe… "

The man knew where she was aiming at. He didn't want to hear anything more about accusing his friend of betrayal. Cutting her in her words, he grabbed her shoulders firmly and looked straight in her eyes. He wasn't planning on shaking her, but his yelling and his own trembles quavered her.

"Didn't you think that they could have compelled her to do that? Or used some sort of technique? Ino would never, repeat: never, assist one of them!" He paused breathing heavily, as if saying those words were arduous work.

Temari didn't even blink. Instead her eyes showed more fierceness. She grasped his wrist assertively, pushing it away from her and stepped back. She tried her best to keep herself calm. She knew what he felt; he couldn't be blamed. But standing all the way just arguing about it wouldn't change anything. So she had to choose her words carefully.

"Take hold of yourself. This isn't the same 'what-a-drag' Shikamaru I know. Listen, I told you what I have seen, but that doesn't mean you're not right. Everything's possible. I'm really sorry about that, I know how much it disturbs you especially for your sensei, but you have to get real and concentrate. We'll know everything when we find her!"

The man with the spiky ponytail nodded silently. He ran his hand through his hair and turned around mystified. He then stopped in his gesture and faced her quickly, somehow shocked.

"What do you mean, we? I'm going alone." He spoke, more of an affirmation than a question.

"As if I'd let you go by yourself! I'm a free woman! Don't worry, I'll make up something for my brothers, I'll just guide you to where I witnessed the whole thing, that's at least what I can do for you." She gave him a gentle punch on the shoulder, trying to lighten up the mood.

Shikamaru only eyed her with amazement. He didn't want her to be involved. Even if she would be of great help, he didn't want to put her at risk. But knowing the stubbornness of his friend, he didn't argue. Deep down, he was thankful and relieved that she was accompanying him. He was also grateful she got him back to his senses. He was being paranoid. Acting like a mad person. She gave him hope. Her brother was saved that time. Ino will be saved as well. His face softened a bit at her rebuke. It means she cared. The tips of his mouth curved up in a smile, even if it was a fade one.

"Thanks…Temari." He muttered, scratching the back of his head.

The blonde laughed and gave him a thumb up. He bent down catching what he had dropped and gestured for her to lead the way. He may have entered the house with desolation, but he surely left optimistic. Ino is a reliable person. He had absolute faith in her. She can take care of herself until he arrives.

Just wait for me, Ino. I'm coming to save you.

Deidara was beyond pissed. He didn't understand at all why he had done such thing. He just panicked. It wasn't like him, but he wasn't thinking straight and he needed silence. Normally he wouldn't care. Yeah, being a criminal who kills people just to "test his art" does that to a person. Although he couldn't help feeling guilty. Even for a lame girl like her, she did help him and take care of him. He was surprised himself. He didn't want to thank her; okay. But at least he could've saved the slap on the face. She didn't deserve one at all. And now he had to apologize. Ha! Yeah right! As if he would. But for the sake of his plan, he had to.

Just the thought about that made him even angrier. How could he, one of the most dangerous and wanted criminals, be brought to such a state? How could he let himself be brought to such a state? Since when did he give up on his beliefs and followed other ones? That was exactly why he disliked planning. One little mistake, and all your hard work goes to waste. Not to mention, making things up on the spot, is way much more artistic.

He sighed and turned his gaze towards his bleeding hand.

It wasn't like it was the end of the world. He'll fix it, somehow. He'll get things back to normal, the way it used to be. Teasing each other. It was fun, and nice. He had missed living normally. Joking with the other Akatsuki members would be nothing but a joke itself. With the whole "badass-serious" everyone was, it was killing tedious. Except for Tobi of course. He was so…no. if you had nothing good to say, don't say anything at all. And he was a complete idiot.

He heard the door swinging open. For an unknown reason, he felt his heart beating faster. Wasn't it too quick for girls to get over things like that? Usually they'd wait for the men to ask for forgiveness and make the first move. He wasn't ready though. He never apologized. So he didn't dare looking at the person entering.

"Oh my god, what happened to you Dei-chan!"

No…it can't be…

Before he even knew it, a certain dark haired girl was by his right holding his hand between her own. He jerked his head back when he saw how close she was staring at the injury. In case he didn't say it before, that girl was really weird.

"Naww, what happened?" She asked, heading towards a desk and fumbling through the contents of a drawer. She found the bandages she was looking for and turned around, only to see him looking to the other way pouting. She walked back and sat on the bedside.

Taking off slowly the blood-stained cloth, she paused when she felt Deidara twitch at her actions. She twirled it off his hand and threw it in the trash can by the nightstand behind her.

"None of your business, un," He mumbled through his teeth. "..why do you have to be this noisy?"

He twitched some more after feeling the breeze coming from the window. It was such a burning sensation when the air met the scar carved in his palm.

"I don't know, why do you have mouths on your hands?" She half asked-half mocked. She was curious about that. It was the first time she had ever seen such thing.

She kept gazing at it with amazement, turning it around as if it were a mini alien. She poked it with her index, almost falling off the bed when his palm's tongue licked her finger.

"Hey watch it, un! I need that!" he yelled, trying his best to hide the pain. "Damn this thing hurts now more than it did when I got stabbed! What kind of a doctor are you?"

Meiko's eyes twitched. She hated when people questioned her abilities. She stared at him out of the corner of her eye, a scary sparkle shone after speaking the following.

"Are you doubting my competence?" She inquired, tightening her grip on his hand.

Wow, talking about a moody person. He thought.

"No ma'am." He answered. Considering the girl had his hand's fate, he didn't want to push his luck.

The kid finished bandaging his hand and got up, placing the remaining cloth on the nightstand next to her. She then placed her hands on her waist and kept giving him the look which he didn't seem to notice until she coughed.

"What?"

Meiko pouted.

"Aren't you gonna tell me what happened? Between you and…Ino?" She couldn't stop herself from smirking. "Now that I think about it, I did see a red mark on her face…" She started, waiting for him to react. When he didn't answer, she kept going with her words to nowhere in particular until he interrupted.

"It's the first time I see a man hitting a girl, what a pity, instead of showing his power by fighting real men, he takes it out on helpless ladies, that's so sad—"

"Okay okay just shut up, un!" He gave up. He didn't know what he should tell her. He didn't know it himself. "I didn't do it on purpose, but don't worry, I'll make it up for her." He whispered the last words hoping she wouldn't hear. Too bad she did.

"That's more like it!" She stood up pumping her fist in the air. Glancing at the watch she wore around her wrist, she jumped her way towards the door, after almost tripping with the pile of books Ino had collected earlier.

"Oh! My cooking is ready! You're gonna love it!" She announced proudly, taking hold of the door handle. "Wait for me nii-san!" She exclaimed opening the door, then stopped after she noticed what she had just called the man who was supposed to be a complete stranger.

"I-I mean, Dei-chan, eheh…" She corrected scratching the back of her head sheepishly, then left the chamber leaving the door open.

Deidara only stared at the entry in surprise.

That girl was indeed a weird one.