Of Heroes and Monsters

by SunshineNGunpowder21

"Kakashi, you must infiltrate Akatsuki..." It sounded like the start of a remarkable legend but Kakashi would hardly call it anything more than a suicide mission. As luck would have it, his poor choices served him with the coerced aid of a missing-nin, in the form of an unforthcoming kunoichi who happens to have a questionable connection to a certain criminal Uchiha.

16. Chapter 16

It was a small country situated between the Land of Wind and Land of Earth. Inconspicuous. Usually, a point of passage for teams located further west, and as Akane reminded, further from Grass Country. Kakashi wasn't sure why she felt the need to elaborate that Grass wasn't their friend. It wasn't like he was trying to go there next if he didn't have to. Well, not truly anyway. When it came to pretending, he played innocent with the suggestions, if only to get under Akane's skin. Now that he thought about it, that was probably why she took every opportunity to berate him needlessly and emphasized why it was a stupid idea.

He was doing it to himself.

Still, the way her brow twitched, lips tightened in a fine line and eyes closed, as if it would block out his teasing smirk, was enough to keep him from being dissuaded from future prodding.

A shadow waved over them, blocking the little bit of sunlight peeking through pearl grey clouds. Turning his head to the sky, he was relieved to see it wasn't a crow that drifted over the tree canopy, but a teal and white kingfisher, likely heading to the river for food. Bird Country wasn't short on… well, birds. Or trees for that matter.

For Fire Country and Konoha being associated with trees, it was interesting to see a forest that was richer with plant diversity and animals. Where Fire had crows, hawks, owls, and smaller songbirds, Bird Country had warmer forested variations with numerous shades of vibrant colors. During winter, most birds migrated to south, but that didn't mean that the residents here were any less impressive to look at. The trees, on the other hand, were bare of leaves now. Most resembled spindly skeletal fingers that twisted and grasped for the clouds rather than the thriving ecosystem he knew it was.

"Do you think it'll snow today?" Akane questioned alongside him, breaking his observations.

Her porcelain mask was tucked away beneath her cloak, along with every other part of her body, save for half her face. A pale rose-colored scarf shielded her chin and neck, but only enhanced her flushed cheeks as a dark stream of hair pooled over the fabric to one side. His own attire was similar. Draped across his body was a dark, winter cloak and cerise scarf hung loosely around his neck with a tail tossed over his shoulder. He didn't have his hood up but didn't mind the brisk chill against his ears.

"I wouldn't be surprised if it did."

Akane didn't add anything to his assumption, though he didn't doubt she was pouting behind the scarf. She wasn't exactly acclimated to the cold.

Eventually, the pair reached an observation point on a mountain ridge that overlooked a vast valley. Mountain was a generous term, but hill didn't seem to do it justice. Long gone were the lower, flatter elevations they'd been traveling in the past two months. Kakashi was surprised there wasn't snow on the ground already.

"This is known as the King's Valley to the locals," Akane informed as she crouched on the rock, as if lowering herself would grant her a better view of the terrain below. Not far in the distance, almost in the center of the valley, was a notable village amongst the sea of spindly trees. "It's small and modest. Not a common stopping point for most outsider shinobi because it's out of the way from larger villages."

"Why is it called King's Valley, though, if it's so small?"

"Because of the waterfalls on the other end. The citizens here don't usually leave their country. They tend to be content with staying in areas they know, though the few shinobi that live here don't have a problem leaving for missions. I always figured it was a cultural thing, because they're very proud of their land and don't believe other countries can offer what they have here."

"We passed three other waterfalls on our way here. What's special about the one there?"

Akane only shrugged. "I suppose it's because this one is larger than the others. That's probably why they have a delusion that the valley is special."

"You sure know a lot about it for not being a local," Kakashi noted, leaving his blatant question unsaid. He didn't need to elaborate as she glanced up at him.

"Well, seeing as we aren't far from it now, I suppose I can fill you in. We're going to meet someone who's lived here all her life. I met her husband, who was a shinobi, when I was first learning the ropes of missing-nin life, and they helped me out whenever I needed it."

"Ah, I see. That's why you wanted to make sure you could trust me. We're seeing friends of yours."

"Friends?" Akane looked thoughtful as if tasting the word on her tongue. "Not sure if I'd call them that."

Kakashi furrowed his brows. "Then what would you call them?"

"I'm not really sure."

He stared at her hard, trying to depict if she was mocking him or being honest. With her gaze blank and staring out at the landscape, he decided she was being sincere.

"Maybe I can be of assistance then." Her eyes landed on him, but she didn't ask for a justification. Kakashi decided to expand on it. "I'm not an expert, but I am a little more experienced with social ties than you are."

Not finding offense by his words (not that it wasn't true) Akane cocked her head in a half shrug, as if to say point made.

---

It was nearly 3pm when the pair were walking down the village's modest street. The few main roads of the town were built with granite setts, primarily where most of the shopping district housed markets and restaurants. The rest of the village roads were constructed with cheaper materials such as hoggin, which was made up of compacted sand, gravel, and clay. Kakashi made a comment about the different construction selections and the older buildings around, which Akane explained was a financial choice. Hoggin road was cheaper than cobblestone or granite, particularly when imported from Land of Earth.

They turned down another street that led past a shrine with stone stairs leading uphill to a forested section. Then continued further down another block before Akane broke the silence between them.

"That's the hotel," she pointed, daring to expose her hand to the frosty weather.

"Hotel? I thought we were meeting your acquaintances."

"We are. I told you she's lived here all her life. The hotel is hers."

"Ah. That's rather convenient."

Akane laughed lightly. "It really is. We'll be taken care of here. Although, I haven't seen her in over a year, so there's a slim chance she'll be mad at me." She sent him a sidelong glance, "Try not to find it too funny, will you?"

Kakashi felt his lips quirk. "I make no promises."

A half groan left her. "I hope I'm not making a mistake bringing you here. It's been on my mind for a while, but honestly, I didn't know how you'd react."

"Wait," Kakashi paused in mid-step, his moment of humor fading. Akane stopped a stride later, spinning to face him. "You're being serious. These people are genuinely important to you."

The look she gave him was not savory, in his opinion. As if she was asking if he was stupid and just coming to realize that. In his defense, she couldn't blame him. It wasn't like she was unreserved with information, even after all these months. Hell, she only just started to explain who they were meeting when they made it outside the village. Basically, 3 hours ago he didn't even know these people existed.

"If it wasn't for them, I'd be…. Well, I'm not sure where I'd be. But yeah." Her eyes narrowed over her scarf and her arms crossed over her chest. "Are you going to make this weird?"

Despite her anxiousness over their meeting, a chuckle left Kakashi, surprising her with the boyish chortle. "No-no. I'll be on my best behavior."

Akane was not an ounce convinced as she stared at him unmoving.

"I promise," he added, eye crinkling as his smile remained beneath the fabric.

Sighing, more out of giving in rather than believing him, she turned and waved over her shoulder. "Come on then. Let's get this part over with."

Kakashi followed her lead, not sure why he felt a swell of anticipation suddenly. His curiosity piqued, he realized he was about to learn about a significant part of Akane's past.

---

The hotel was older. That much was obvious by the white plaster walls and wooden slats across the front entrance. A pale stone walkway extended off the hoggin road to the entrance, wrapping around a juniper tree with branches trimmed away from the powerline. Four circled windows were above the entrance that glowed with a warm light and above that was the traditional A-frame roof with brick colored clay shingles. Updates were made tastefully, to blend in with the foundational structure, but still apparent if one looked hard enough.

Akane took the lead and slid open the door before stepping into the entrance. Two large cylindrical paper lanterns hung over a long fabric banner that Kakashi stepped under as he followed. Inside, a small, charming lobby welcomed them, with a wooden counter to the right. An older woman with salt and pepper hair in a neat bun with a soft pink kimono had her back turned as she wiped down a shelf against the wall. Hearing them enter, the lady straightened and slowly spun to face them, an image of grace as a hostess of the fine establishment. As her attention landed on them, however, the guise fell away as her chestnut eyes grew and her thin lips went slack.

"…Akane?"

The kunoichi raised a hand into the air and beamed. "Hey, oba-chan. It's been a while."

The older woman, likely in her mid-sixties, scurried around the desk, rag long forgotten on the countertop. When she reached Akane, her hands went to the younger woman's shoulders as if touching her would validate she was real.

"A while is putting it mildly. Where've you been? It's been almost two years and now you show up? And without a word between to let me know you were safe or anything! I should report you to the authorities, so they can lock you up." The woman's hands landed on her hips and a worried crease winkled at her forehead.

Akane smiled sheepishly as her hand went to the back of her head, a strange habit she started to pick up from her teammate. "Heh, sorry. I've been busy. But you're right, I should've at least written to you."

The stern reprimand the older woman likely had at the edge of her tongue was swallowed as her shoulders sagged. "I know it must have been hard to come back after his passing, but I—"

"No, I was just busy. That's all," Akane interjected flatly, the hand at the back if her head coming to wave off the woman's assumptions. The act seemed a little forced in Kakashi's opinion.

The woman's face relaxed, a tiny fragile smile lifting slightly, but her brows pinched sadly. Her frail hands enveloped Akane's floating one and brought it between them, as if capturing a delicate bird.

"Sure. I understand." The way she said it made it clear that she didn't believe Akane's excuse but didn't hold it against the younger woman either way. "I'm just so glad you came back. How long do you plan to stay?"

Taking advantage of the offered lighter topic, Akane started to revert to her comfortable self, almost as if the façade of indifference to the subject before was natural. If Kakashi had to guess, whatever it was, Akane spent the last year mentally preparing herself for the reunion rather than being 'busy'.

"A couple nights. We're just passing through and needed a little break."

"We?" The older woman peaked over Akane's shoulder, meeting Kakashi's respectful smile. "Oh. Oooh." The woman's eyes widened even further than when she first recognized Akane and she started to ping-pong between them. "Are you two together?"

Frowning at the woman's enlivened tone, Akane pulled her hand away and folded her arms. "Eh? Well, we're traveling together. This is Kakashi. He's my current partner. Kakashi, this is Honoka."

No sooner did the introductions end did the older woman leave Akane's side, to greet Kakashi with a deep bow. "It's an absolute pleasure to meet you, Kakashi-san."

Kakashi, never missing a beat on conduct, returned the bow with a pleasant eye crinkle. "The pleasure is mine, Honoka-san. You have a beautiful establishment here. I can see you take great pride in it."

Straightening with hands folding neatly in front of her, Honaka had a faint tint to her cheeks as she beamed at the taller man. "Please. Call me oba-chan. I make Akane do it, so formalities are not necessary."

"I'm honored to be treated so warmly. Feel free to call me Kakashi."

Honoka giggled, creating a raised brow from Akane. "Why are you acting weird?"

"Hush, Akane. I'm being polite." Turning back to Kakashi, her tone resumed to that airy lithe. "I'm sorry for being so excited. Akane has never brought a teammate here before. You must be special."

Despite feeling ignored, Akane remained cool in the face of the old woman making a larger deal out of Kakashi's presence than she expected. "It's not like that. We're working on a few missions and needed a break. That's it."

"Well, I don't know how much she's filled you in on," Honoka continued, brushing off Akane's explanation, "but you'll be getting a full dinner every night you're here unless you prefer to go out. If there's anything you don't like, please feel free to let me know and I can substitute it or make something else for you."

"I appreciate that." Kakashi couldn't help but find Akane's rising ire amusing. He distinctly got the feeling that he was meeting her family rather than an acquaintance. The informal 'oba-chan' endearment elaborated that Honoka considered Akane as a niece or granddaughter, which sprouted new questions.

"Great, so we can stay here," Akane trailed off, trying to pull the woman's attention back to the main reason at hand.

Honoka nodded, leaving Kakashi to put the rag aside and fill out information on a sheet of paper. "Of course, you can. Follow me."

As she led the way to the hall, Akane and Kakashi fell in step behind her. The woman chatted animatedly to them, question tumbling after question of how their journey to Bird Country went and what he thought of the valley. Kakashi answered each inquiry with ease, that same pleasant smile never leaving beneath his mask.

Akane continued to glance sideways at him, wondering if he was always this polite to elders or if it was because Honoka was deemed important to Akane. If she was to put money on it, she'd say both. Even when meeting with shopkeepers, contacts, and the medic, he was always well mannered unless someone was rude in return. She couldn't help but feel a little envious of him. How was he able to approach people with open kindness when they had the opportunity to try to use that to their advantage? Sure, not everyone was selfish enough to treat others like that, but she didn't care to take the time to risk it. Her interactions with others were strictly business. Anything more was unnecessary interface.

Maybe that's why you don't have friends.

Psh. She didn't need friends. Her life was fine as it was. After Kakashi's mission, if she survived, she'd continue as she had been doing. Finding another mission with a group of people and never sticking around for long.

Somehow, the thought didn't reaffirm her confidence. Instead, she felt a deep sting of abandonment at the idea. A strange feeling that she hadn't had since when she first left Konoha and realized she genuinely was on her own.

I got over it then, I'll get over it in the future.

"Alright, here's your room," Honoka announced as she came to a stop in front of a screen door. She slid it open and stepped aside for them.

Akane walked in first, surprised by what she saw. The room was spacious, and despite the older structure being historic, there was a large mattress in the center of the room. A panoramic window screen stretched across the opposite wall with a view of the forest that extended from the shrine, and a wooden door led to a generous bathroom.

"Whoa, I never got to stay in the big room before," Akane gawked, a broad smile creeping across her lips. "What a treat! And…" her smile fell as she spun on her heels to perch her hands on her hips, "what the hell? I thought I was special! Why'd you keep this from me for so long?"

"Listen, missy. I'm a busy establishment. This room isn't always available." Turning back on the courteous façade, she glanced back to Kakashi. "If you two have time before dinner, Akane can show you around the building. There's plenty of amenities to help you relax and enjoy your stay."

She bowed politely before dismissing herself toward the lobby.

"Er, wait," Akane called out. Honoka paused. "Where's Kakashi's room? Aren't you going to show him?"

The older woman faced them, hands folded in front of her naïvely. "This room is for both of you."

Akane looked like she was about to fall over in shock but managed to collect herself. "But there's only one bed. Can we get a room with two, at least?"

Honoka scowled, as if talking to an insolent child. Kakashi tried to keep from showing humor at the situation, reminding himself that even though Honoka had limited patience with Akane, he was on the kunoichi's side with this. Not that it really mattered. The older woman's hospitality was replaced by elder disdain. As if a parent was telling a child 'too bad'.

"No. I'm all booked up."

Akane exchanged a wary glance with Kakashi, then examined the desolate hallway with abundant scrutiny. The building was deadly silent, as if ghosts didn't dare haunt the hotel.

"Sure," she dragged the word out dramatically. "I can see how busy you are with all the people in here and not at all lying—ow!"

The woman's answer was a slap to the back of Akane's head.

"Don't be cheeky, Akane. You should be worried about getting cleaned up for dinner. You stink."

Chestnut eyes turned to Kakashi, but no remorse was behind the gaze. "Is there anything you'd like to eat in particular?"

Not wanting to chance her ire turning on him, he waved a hand in the air. "I'd be happy to eat whatever is being served."

Honoka nodded. "It's refreshing to have someone so decorous. Tell me, do you have any nice clothes to wear? A yukata can be provided if you don't."

"Unfortunately, not."

"Not to worry. There are a few in the room you can choose from. I'm sure they will fit nicely. Akane." The kunoichi perked up, hand still rubbing the back of her head. "Let's go get yours from the lobby closet."

"Right," she muttered grudgingly, leaving Kakashi to the room alone.

---

Almost fifteen minutes later, Akane returned with a yukata draped over her arm to find the room empty. The door to the bathroom was open, shower wet, and mirror lightly fogged. Where Kakashi ran off to was a mystery.

"I wouldn't be surprised if he decided to bail after Honoka's pestering," she scoffed, not blaming him. She was beginning to wonder if it was a mistake bringing him here.

Stepping to the bed, Akane laid out the yukata so she could take her shower. The cotton fabric was pale blue, resembling ice more than the sky, with matte navy floral prints across the hem and sleeves. Golden himo strings tied around the darker blue obi that had a white silken edge to it. It wasn't her favorite, but it was better than the pink or lavender yukata that Honoka always tried to guilt her into wearing.

Her gaze drifted from the fabric to the lone mattress beneath. What was the old woman thinking, forcing them to share a bed? If she had to guess, she'd say Honoka was doing it out of some sick morbid pleasure to torture Akane. However, even if that was the case, she couldn't bring herself to gripe too much to the older woman. Ever since her husband died two years ago, she'd become rather motherly over Akane. And it startled her.

In fact, it made the kunoichi painfully uncomfortable being around someone who thought they could act so familiar with her, as if a caring family member than mere acquaintance or friend. That was partially why she told Kakashi she didn't know how their relationship was. Because she didn't want to admit that Honoka was the closest thing to family that she'd experienced. Or, at least what she'd imagine a different family to be like.

It felt wrong. Having people care unconditionally for her was not allowed. Not like that anyway. Her father was the only family she'd come to know and that was plenty for her to decide was enough. It simply wasn't in the cards she was dealt.

The last visit after Honoka's husband passed away, left her with a bitter taste and feeling claustrophobic. A part of her felt sorry for Honoka, knowing it wasn't her fault for becoming a mother goose over Akane, but the other part couldn't push away her discomfort at the woman's coping method. She wanted to erect an impenetrable wall between them so things could return to the way they were before her husband passed. Hence, leaving for almost two years.

Sighing heavily, Akane knew she'd have to keep up appearances for Honoka and Kakashi. Showing how uneasy she was would only be cause for concern and make it worse for her. Besides, now that Kakashi was around, she hoped it would pull Honoka's attention away from her.

Deciding to focus on the other larger issue at hand, she blinked slowly at the blankets and pillows. It wasn't like Kakashi and her hadn't shared a room before. In fact, aside from the first two nights together as a team, they'd always shared a room. The change came from the freshly published Bingo Books and how hunter-nin were drooling at a chance to capture her or Kakashi. Since then, they shared a room. Strength in numbers and all that. But those rooms always had two beds.

"I don't have to sleep in the same bed," she reasoned aloud. "I'll just sleep on the floor. That's fine. Besides, he's probably still sore from his injury."

Feeling resolved with her solution, she settled for the shower before Kakashi could return. It wasn't much longer until dinner was ready, and she was starving.

---

"You don't need to help with these, Kakashi. You're a guest," Honoka assured as she pulled three sets of dishes from the cabinet.

"Really, it's not a problem. Besides, you're the owner of the hotel. Shouldn't you have employees getting dinner ready for the guests?"

The woman looked embarrassed. "Well, normally I do, but when Akane's around, I usually send them home. She can be a bit… jumpy with unfamiliar faces. And her blatant glaring can unsettle my staff."

"Ah. Yes, I've noticed." He didn't need to reflect on one particular incident. There was plenty to choose from. "When there's a chance that anyone can turn you in for a profit, it tends to make you take a second look at people."

"I'm pleased that she hasn't corrupted you with her superstitions. Not everyone is so greedy or out to get her. There's plenty of good people out there, I'd just wish she'd realize that."

Kakashi decided to keep the fact that he too was suspicious of people to himself. He was just better at hiding it than his counterpart. Where Akane used it as a deterrent—"I see you, make your move if you dare", Kakashi kept his behind an aloof front to catch them by surprise— "My guard is down and unsuspecting. What will you do now?"

Ever since his ANBU days, he retained that bitter reluctance to trust others. Having taken up the mantal of Team 7 Captain, however, showed him that keeping a cynical view of life was not necessary. As Honoka said, there were good people. In the village and out of it. Further evidence was how some enemies became his friends. It was just the way things were. He hoped that one day, he could show Akane that gift that Team 7 had taught him. Even if it still had limits to him.

"Excuse my prodding," Kakashi inquired as he offered to carry the dishes for her, "but I assume she's not related to you?"

Honoka handed him the stack and grabbed smaller items for the table. "Has she not told you about us?"

It was Kakashi's turn to look embarrassed, but hands being full, he couldn't scratch the back of his head, so he settled for a shrug. "She's not the most open when it comes to personal details."

"That stubborn girl," Honoka grumbled, shaking her head. "I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. No, you're correct. We aren't related. My late husband, Kenji, was a shinobi, but with Bird Country not having a strong ninja force, he took diplomatic jobs with neighboring countries for extra support. He's originally from Sunagakure. We met when he came here for a mission nearly three decades ago."

"I'm sorry for your loss."

"Thank you but it's alright now. I've come to terms with it," Honoka reassured. There was a rigidity in her tone, a tension in her frail smile, that caused Kakashi to not comment further. "Anyway, when he was out on a mission, near River, he came across Akane. She'd been injured and, Kenji, being the kind-hearted man, brought her here where we helped her get back on her feet. Since then, she'd come by to visit between missions. Kenji and Akane were very close. Closer than I am to her. After he passed, I was afraid she'd never return."

"Unfortunately, I might be to blame for that. She's been helping me out since I left my village and wanted to make sure I was safe to bring around."

"Is that what she told you? Don't listen to her lies. It takes her about a few weeks to decide if she actually likes a person. Not however long you two've been travelling together."

Kakashi started distributing the plates along the mats that Honoka set out. The three settings didn't escape his notice and he wondered if Akane was correct in her assumption that there were no other guests in the building. Then again, he supposed it wasn't out of the question for Honoka to tell guests that they were on their own for dinner tonight. Something more diplomatic than 'Kitchen is closed—my feral kunoichi is in'.

Kakashi smirked beneath his mask at the thought.

"So, your husband was not a missing-nin?"

"No. There are many transplants from other countries that live here. Very few Bird shinobi are around, but I believe there's five families total in the village."

"And Akane's missing-nin status doesn't bother you?"

"Of course, it does. She's always in danger when she doesn't have loyalty to a Country. But that's neither here nor there. You're in a similar situation. You understand. Still, the village doesn't have many hunter-nin come through, and even fewer missing-nin know of it. The risks here are less than if you go to the next village over."

"What a prime location to be in. She can visit you and not deal with the risks."

"Indeed."

Kakashi offered an open hand, bare of his usual gloves. Honoka, coming to terms that he was going to help her regardless, handed him the other dishes to set out. He didn't need to consider the prospect before him long to realize he had the best chance to learn more about his counterpart. Particularly when Honoka was being so forthcoming with information, it was hard to pass up. Therefore, he graciously picked his next words, keeping them disarming and harmless.

"You said Akane was injured when you met her. I was under the impression that her chakra healed her wounds on its own," he let the words linger innocently between them, feigning that he had witnessed proof otherwise. The scars along her pale skin in the cave still left him wondering what could have caused it.

"Well, when she has chakra."

Kakashi paused to glance at her.

"It really isn't my place to say. That's something she should explain to you."

Perhaps, Honoka is not as open as I expected, Kakashi mused while he nodded and answered, "I understand."

"May I ask how you came to be a missing-nin?"

She's certainly not shy about turning the questions back, is she?

Kakashi looked thoughtful, as if reflecting on the past. He knew that underestimating Honoka was not smart. She lived a large portion of her life with a shinobi and thought highly of Akane. If she was prodding to test his trustworthiness, it wouldn't surprise him. It'd be foolish to treat her as a harmless host, even if she was a civilian. Still, it didn't seem to set right with him to be so open with his own past either when he'd just met her.

It's a good time to practice the explanation, though. Want to have all the wrinkles ironed out by the time Akatsuki tries to contact me…. If they do.

"During a mission, I crossed paths with Akane and her team. We were sent to arrest them, but it took a couple days to finally catch her. I ended up taking her back on my own where I learned about corruption in Konoha; which led to my decision to sneak her into the village without notifying anyone else. That lasted only a day or so before they found out and—well, I'm no longer affiliated with the village after being accused of treason. But what can I say? Hell is paved with good intentions."

"Oh," Honoka's gaze unexpectedly brightened, making Kakashi feel like he was partaking in gossip rather than admitting to a lifechanging choice he'd made. "Oh, so she's actually told you about it, then? You don't know how relieved I am to hear that. I was afraid she was going to take on the corruption by herself."

Kakashi schooled his features, not revealing his shock that Honoka was aware. His former ANBU training took over flawlessly, as if picking up a familiar weapon after recovering from an injury. With practiced ease, he broke down her words and body language, deducing that Honoka knew about Konoha enough to be concerned with Akane's safety. What he knew of it and Akane's determination to find the truth didn't warrant the same level of concern, leading him to think there was information he was missing.

Well, that was a given. He was still in the dark with Akane's past and what happened in Konoha all those years ago. But fortune smiled on him tonight. Something about the way Honoka phrased her response said she retained details he was after. He just needed to use his skills to artfully retrieve the information without raising any red flags. And do so before Akane arrived.

"It was surprising to hear it. I'll admit, it took a couple days to come to terms with it and decide she was telling the truth."

"And what are your thoughts on it?" Honoka was facing him fully as she set the last napkin down. Her chestnut eyes watched him with a cunning that age sharpened over years of examining people's reactions, keen on picking up deception. It made Kakashi feel like a teenager again under Minato's watchful gaze.

"I'm sickened by it. How corruption from the top can impact its citizens without a care for their safety… it's treachery, and Akane is right. It needs to be stopped." He hoped that regurgitating the bare facts of what he'd been told was enough to make it sound like he knew more. It wasn't until he was scrapping for details that he realized how little he truly had.

Honoka seemed to consider his explanation, tilting her head to the side as a strand of hair fell from her bun. Lifting her pale hand, she tucked the loose lock behind her ear before closing her eyes and sighing.

"I agree. But stopping corruption like that is impossible for one person. Even if you helped, it wouldn't do anything. You can't stop a plague without an antidote."

"Perhaps, but I like to be optimistic. If we can plan strategically, we can find a way to eradicate it," he trailed on, chipping away at her responses. The table between them seemed too small of a distance and yet not enough at the same time. As if it was there, slowly rising and erecting into a wall that would shield him from the answers he sought.

"Even you have to see you're taking on a giant with no hope of winning," she countered as politely as one could in a debate.

Kakashi wasn't ready to back down. "I still believe that we can win if we outthink them. They can't fight against what's not there or what we only want them to see."

Honoka laughed but it held no humor. "Very well, Kakashi. Far be it for me to tell you how to win a battle. But even as a civilian, I can see the odds are out of your favor. How can two shinobi hope to uncover and stop corruption that wiped out the entire Uchiha clan in one night?"

… Wha—what? The Uchiha Massacre? It was over that?!

Kakashi felt his dark eye widen but composed his reaction just in time. The cool mask slipped back in place, and he feigned deep contemplation to hide his shock. Hand rubbing the back of his neck, as if easing an ache, he closed his eye and sighed deeply.

"You make a point. That's been on my mind."

"So, you can see why I'm concerned. If they can authorize killing a clan with a Kekkei Genkai, they can kill Akane, and it'll be no more than swatting a fly." Honoka shook her head, hands firmly wrung together to keep her emotions in check as she forced herself to speak flatly. "I don't mean to bring the mood down. But she's been obsessed with meeting that Uchiha member that killed his clan for answers, and I'm terrified it'll get her killed. You're obviously important to her and she trusts you if she's told you all of that. So, please." Despite the table still sitting between them, she bowed to Kakashi, "keep Akane safe, no matter what."

A familiar pressure inside his chest swelled, leaving an unpleasant knot in its place. The presence caused his brows to pinch together, realizing it was a writhing guilt that distorted behind his sternum. His lack of honesty was causing Honoka to think Akane trusted him more than she did. As if he was blatantly lying to someone's family that he'd have their loved one back safe and sound after a mission when he knew what the dangers and odds of return were. It didn't set right that he was playing on the elder's concern for Akane to further his need for answers. It wasn't like it was his intention to give her a false impression of his character or their relationship.

But how else would I get answers? Akane doesn't tell me anything…

Did that make it justified? By the way the guilt started to get heavier and more tangled, he guessed not.

"I have every plan to do just that," he answered assuredly. Confident, unyielding, everything a person wanted to hear from such a request. Even if internally, he was feeling anything but.

"I'm sorry for making this so serious," she apologized again, straightening with a smaller smile, more timid than the previous as she recovered from the tense subject. "If I haven't scared you off with my questions, I'd appreciate the help with preparing the food. It's all cooked, aside from setting the plates…"

"It'd be my pleasure," Kakashi replied, smiling beneath his mask. It was probably smart to end the conversation before Akane arrived anyway. He had plenty of new information to ponder over later.

---

Akane ambled down the hall, not finding motivation to hurry her pace, even with the rumbling complaints of her stomach. The yukata was comfortable, if a little disheveled from her trying to tie the thin obi on her own. She attempted to straighten it as best as she could, but Honoka's keen eyes would spot the misalignment and wrinkles instantly. Then again, what did the woman expect? It wasn't like Akane commonly wore one to begin with.

As she passed a few doors, she could hear voices lingering within, proof that Honoka had guests aside from Akane and Kakashi. Whether the only room available being the one she shoved them into was another question entirely. Either way, Akane reminded herself that she'd be taking the floor, and it wasn't an issue any longer. The situation she was concerned with was Honoka's clingy nature and trying to keep a casual front. She wasn't ready to face the facts of Kenji's death or deal with the emotional baggage of his widow just yet, but she'd have to manage somehow if she didn't want their relationship to dissolve further.

After passing the lobby and going down a separate hall, she found the two dining rooms of the hotel. One of the doors was shut to the larger eating area, usually reserved for communal guests or important meetings. The second, smaller room (the chashitsu) had sliding doors open to reveal the table with three place settings. There wasn't a window in that dining area as the larger room had, but there was a second doorway that opened to the garden. It was commonly used for private tea ceremonies or meals such as when Akane visited. Tonight, though, the doors to the garden were closed, entrapping the warmer air inside.

Akane continued to stand in the doorway, finding that the empty room was not what she expected to find. If she had to guess, Honoka was finishing prepping the meal while Kakashi…. Where was he? She'd only been joking when she said he probably left. Now she was starting to question if she was correct. Then again, there was a chance he was exploring the onsen or garden, not knowing dinner was about to be served.

Before Akane could decide what to do with those possibilities, she heard a familiar voice coming from the doors to the right that led to the kitchen. Moments later Honoka entered the small dining area, gaze landing on Akane with a bowl of food in her hands. Her wrinkles around her mouth and eyes were sunken from laughing for an extended time, making Akane wonder who she'd been talking with to make her so happy.

"Akane, you look better. Please sit. I'm just bringing the last entrees out now."

Hesitantly, Akane did as she was told, taking the seat on the left side of the table. Honoka waited for her to settle before placing the bowl down in the center and motioning to the adroitly crafted pot.

"Why don't you start with pouring tea for us."

Again, Akane did as she was told, still not finding a response worth saying. Honoka didn't seem to mind as her attention returned to the doorway that she'd come from, just as the third member arrived. Akane had finished filling the second cup when she noticed Kakashi enter with the last two plates of food in his hands. After setting them down, he took the seat across from Akane while Honoka took the head of the table, though Akane struggled to tear her eyes from Kakashi's attire.

"Kakashi was so kind to help get dinner ready while you showered. Because of him, everything is still freshly warm," Honoka commented pleasantly, breaking the magnetic pull that Akane tried to tug away from. It was enough to refocus her on filling her personal teacup instead of the man across from her.

"It wasn't a problem. I wanted to show our appreciation for your hospitality," Kakashi responded, the hint of a smile beneath the mask strangely looking unfamiliar to Akane with his yukata on.

After saying their thanks for the food, each took turns to fill their plates with the various options in the center of the table. Akane, still not saying anything, realized that she was losing control of her approach. Here she was, determined to play it cool and not show how uncomfortable she was with being back, that she now felt she couldn't do anything but stare at her food. In fact, Honoka wasn't even hovering over her, and she was still making it obvious. Then again, it wasn't just her self-declared guardian that had her afraid to make the wrong move or say the wrong thing.

Across from her, Kakashi was his usual polite self, eating around his mask as he commonly did. Any other time, Akane would've made a comment about it in hopes that Honoka would pressure him to eat normally and finally reveal his face. A strategy that would force him into a corner of self-preservation or good manners. But judging by the way the older woman went about eating her meal, as if oblivious to his method, revealed she'd likely berate Akane for making the man uncomfortable and to leave him be.

Of course, she'd side with Kakashi.

But that was beside the point. The scenario was simply speculation on whether she was acting her usual self, when in fact, she was not in the slightest. Insecurity was eating away at her confidence. Having a grand picnic too, judging by the way she fought from fidgeting with her hair. She had the urge to twist and tug at a sable lock, but it was all bundled in a loose bun, out of reach. Thankfully, neither commented on it nor noticed, which meant she had time to get her priorities straightened before their attention shifted to her.

"Oh, I almost forgot!" Honoka stood up and disappeared into the kitchen before Akane could make a display of how normal she was, leaving both shinobi alone.

With Kakashi's attention pulled over his shoulder, asking if Honoka needed help, Akane couldn't help but take advantage of his distraction to cast her marbled gaze over his attire.

The forehead protector, fingerless gloves, and weapons were absent. The black mask that dipped below the fabric of his yukata was in place and his crimson Sharingan concealed beneath his scarred eyelid. His mass of white hair was still charmingly messy, but without the forehead protector on, the thick locks fell to one side rather than standing up. Similar to trees in winter leaning against the weight of snow on their branches. Akane vaguely wondered if she ran her fingers through his hair, if it'd be as soft as it looked.

Gaze drifting down, she subtly appreciated the sage yukata draped over his lean frame. The nagagi was a softer pea green with darker fabric strip around the sleeves and neckline. A white obi tied around his waist with a side knot at his hip caused the tail to pool to the floor by his lap. The sage haori was a few shades deeper than the nagagi, with the same viridescent fabric trim along the edges of the front. The pattern was sophisticated pale gold leaves and honeycomb design that came off his left shoulder, the drooping sleeves, and the hem of the robe. Such a charismatic shade for him. Then her attention shifted to the elegant cup and saucer in his subtle grasp, china white with wafts of heat dancing above the rim. It was held delicately between his fingers, reminding her that those hands were not only made to wield a weapon or control lightning. The man was tirelessly versatile in everything he did, making it a note to master each new social circumstance he was placed in.

But instead of feeling jealousy over his adaptability, Akane found herself appreciating it. The people she surrounded herself with prior were not nearly well-rounded to fit into any situation outside of a bar or brawl. While at times, it could be an annoyance, Akane couldn't deny the fascination she had when Kakashi turned on a new side of himself.

As she grew lost in her thoughts, losing track of time in her scanning, she traced the length of his arm back to his face to see that ebony pool staring back at her. It took her mind two beats before she realized she was openly staring. Eyes widening, she dropped her attention hard to her bowl of rice, as if gravity instantly activated and yanked her back to earth.

Way to play it cool, she berated, stuffing a mouthful of rice behind her lips to buy her time to compose herself.

Luckily, any response Kakashi was about to say was cut off when Honoka returned with three new glasses and a larger bottle in sapphire blue glass.

"What kind of celebration is it if there's no sake?" the older woman beamed as she distributed it to Akane and Kakashi, a hint of her younger years coming through with the prospect of alcohol.

Thank God!

No sooner did the new glasses get filled did Akane reach for it, ignoring the full teacup next to it. She downed the cup in one swig, washing down the mouthful of rice and welcoming the heat that hit the back of her throat. Setting the empty cup down with a -clip- she reached for the bottle to pour a second glass, unaware of the attention from the other two.

Honoka watched her fill it, then cleared her throat to get the kunoichi's attention. "Akane. I didn't know you liked sake that much."

The sentence was a gentle reminder of manners and an implication that her actions were unexpected. All concealed behind a mild comment. It was enough to bring Akane to the situation at hand; the one about acting normal.

"Er… yeah…. You know how Kenji always said it was an acquired taste? I've decided to start trying more so I could drink with him, but since traveling around, I've not had one this good," Akane chuckled as she topped off the glass. She brought it up to her lips, "Something about the house sake here is special, I guess."

Then she tipped it back, this time only drinking half, and letting the bitter liquid coat her tongue on the way down. The warmth of it traveled to her stomach, easing her nerves as it landed in her gut. A little liquid courage never hurt a situation.

"The food is delicious," Akane continued, feeling her composure return in full force in anticipation for the buzz of alcohol to hit.

Whatever Akane did seemed to ease any concern from Honoka. A curve of her lips and a nod.

"Thank you. I hope everything is to your liking. I even made your favorite vegetable tempura."

Akane glanced at the many dishes of food, knowing it was way too much for the three of them to eat, to find that there was a plate of tempura right in front of Kakashi. Internally, her face fell into a deadpanned stare, realizing Honoka put that plate there on purpose. On the outside, she miraculously managed to keep a small smile, knowing that turning away the tempura would raise suspicion like a tsunami wave coming to swallow her whole.

"You know me so well," she complimented, reaching across the table with her chopsticks to pick up some tempura from the plate.

She could feel the weight of Kakashi's crippling gaze on her, stirring new thoughts of the various ways she could make a fool of herself by simply picking up some food. The stretch of her arm, the reaching of the utensils, her eyes selecting the easiest piece to pick up with the least amount of risk under Kakashi's scrutiny. Time seemed to take forever until she finally reached for her chosen target, a sweet relief that the motion was almost done—

Kakashi's chopsticks swiped the piece just before she could clamp hers around, what she guessed was a sweet potato slice.

Eh….?

Marbled eyes jerked up, hand still hovering over the dish, frozen in place. Kakashi chewed the piece behind his mask, satisfied dark gaze staring directly at her with pure smugness shining. Akane felt her brow twitch, any insecurity she sensed previously from being in his presence was snuffed out.

"What the hell?! That was mine!"

"I thought you were going for the broccoli, my mistake," Kakashi lied innocently. He knew exactly which one she was going for.

"I hate broccoli!"

"How was I supposed to know? Here," he picked up the plate and let it hover between them, as if a peace offering.

Akane tossed a skeptical glare at him, lifted her chopsticks to a carrot shaped tempura, only for Kakashi's lightning-fast reflexes to lunge forward and take it before she had the chance.

"Are you serious?!"

Kakashi's grin only grew, but he handed her the plate to soothe any further insults. "I only wanted one more."

Akane took the dish from him aggressively, nearly losing a few pieces off the plate, and set it directly beside her personal bowl. Far away from his reach. "Good, because the rest is mine!"

Honoka only smiled, having enough sense to know chiding Akane's lack of manners would get none of the desired results. Besides, she'd not witness her interaction between someone she deemed a friend other than herself and Kenji. It was a pleasant and amusing change. The connection between the two was obvious, but knowing Akane, she'd be stubborn to the very end about it. So, Honoka cunningly waited until Akane had a mouthful of food and her guard dropped to ask her next question.

"Akane is very pretty when she's out of her dirty kunoichi uniform, isn't she, Kakashi?

Simultaneously, Kakashi and Akane's gaze locked onto each other, a shared look of startled deer. The young woman couldn't help as heat rose to her face, and she forcefully swallowed her half-chewed food as she turned her frustrations to Honoka.

"You act like my outfit is some kind of costume, oba-chan. I'm a kunoichi—I'm not there to look pretty!"

"You can still have some pride in your appearance and dress like a lady more often."

"Oba-chan!"

"Let's get a man's opinion. God knows you need more of that in your life," she muttered the last part beneath her breath, hidden behind the teacup.

"Oba-chan!"

"Eh," Kakashi was sweating, as he started to fidget. He attempted to find an honest and yet diplomatic response, so he wasn't siding behind either woman's battle line. "I believe she's very pretty in both styles. Akane can pull off both function and fashion well when many people can't."

Surprised, Akane glanced sideways at Kakashi, noticing a faint rosy tint to his cheeks. Was he blushing because she put him on the spot or was it partly a confession? Did he think she was pretty?

No! Now's not the time to think about that!

"Oba-chan, stop forcing comments from my partner for your amusement. If he wants to talk about that kind of stuff, he's free to do so on his terms."

The old woman only shrugged. "Don't be a prude, Akane. You're too young for that."

Akane's brow twitched, seeing right through the devilish older woman. Strange how it was her idea to tease Kakashi into being uncomfortable and now the tables were turned. She was now defending him against Honoka's assault. What was the world coming to?

---

After two empty bottles of sake, full bellies, and pride surprisingly still in-tact, Akane and Kakashi walked down the hall to their room. Despite the alcohol in her system, she kept a mask of impassiveness in place, hiding her unease about how to approach their sleeping situation. She wasn't sure why it was a big deal. All she needed to do was tell him her plan to sleep on the floor. That was it. Not like she was proposing anything crazy, right?

"Honoka can be something else, can't she?" Kakashi mused, hands together in front and hidden inside the sleeves of the yukata.

"She's usually not so silly. Kenji always teased me before while she'd berate him for it. Honestly, she can be a bigger thorn in my side than you."

He ignored her comment on him. "People that fill the role as family typically are. It seems she wanted to make things as comfortable as possible for you. At least by filling in for Kenji."

"I suppose. She's a little too good with it, though, if you ask me."

Kakashi chuckled, the sound sending a pleasant tingle through Akane. Likely a side effect to the alcohol in her system. "She means well. You returning to visit means a lot to her. More than you probably know."

Akane wasn't sure what to say to that. Luckily, she didn't have to as they arrived at their room which Kakashi opened for her. She stepped in, flicking on the light that washed the entire room in a warm flash that chased the shadows away, illuminating the modest furniture and bed. There was a faint glow leaking from the window shades on the opposite wall, duller than the lit metal wall fixtures. Akane walked over to it as Kakashi closed the door behind them, pulling the string to lift the blinds.

The hotel was situated on the same hill as the shrine that overlooked the small town. The streetlights shone through the evening darkness between the buildings, enough to showcase the valley's civilization but not arrogantly as some larger villages had with their obnoxious neon lights. The waxing gibbous moon reflected enough brightness into the sky to highlight the surrounding mountainous ridge, roof tops, and trees as the clouds drifted across the inky vastness.

"I can see the appeal of the valley from the locals' point of view. It has a charm to it," Kakashi commented as he stopped beside her to gaze out the window.

"It's one of the nicer places I've been to," she agreed, looking for stars in the sky. Between the clouds and the bright moon, it was difficult to see more than a handful at a time.

Glancing at the corner of her eye, she watched as Kakashi stared in the distance, a warmth of light coating his back, the softer blue luminescence from the moon at his front, igniting the messy locks as if white flame. A tingling seared its way from her stomach to her chest, more potent than the buzz one got from alcohol. She wasn't sure what the source of it was from, but she knew that she needed to make her plan clear to Kakashi before it got too far into assumption.

"I'll keep the floor."

Kakashi's brow rose as he glanced sideways at her.

Wait… What did she say? Akane panicked.

"I-I mean, I'll sleep on the floor tonight."

His face morphed into something akin to impatience, which made Akane wonder why that was his reaction of all things. She half expected him to start teasing her over the slip up. Instead, he shifted his weight so he met her head on, his arms still together in their sleeves.

Before he could counter her argument, for she had a feeling that's what was coming, she added, "You're probably still sore from the injury, so it makes sense you'd need the bed."

"Yeah," Kakashi drawled out, bemused by her antics, "that's not going to happen. I'm not letting you sleep on the floor. You can take the bed. I'll be fine on the ground."

"No—really, Kakashi. It's ok if you—"

"What do you take me for? I thought I've proven myself a gentleman at least. You should know by now I won't allow that." He paused, looking thoughtful for a moment. Then he shifted again, turning until he was half facing her and half the bed. "You know… We could always share it. It's not like it's a tiny mattress. There's plenty of room."

The upfront proposal stunned Akane. Was he seriously offering to stay in the same bed as her? She'd figured it'd be a fight for the floor, at most. Not that he'd advocate for Honoka's idea of them sleeping together!

One part of her wanted to dispute it entirely. Fine—she'd take the bed and he could sleep on the floor. Anything to keep from sharing the same mattress. But that didn't set right. She'd feel awful if he took the floor. The other part, the logical side of her, said that they'd already slept in close quarters before around a fire. Not on-the-same-mattress-close, but damn near it. It wasn't as if a mattress was going to change anything between them. They were partners. He viewed her as a comrade. Nothing more. They could keep it professional.

Kakashi remained silent as she battled internally, somewhat patiently at first. Then something in his expression shifted, taking on a hopefulness about it as he waited for a response. He hadn't expected her to consider his offer, not seriously at least. The prospect of her dropping more of her defenses around him made the idea all the more rewarding. It was at that time that he decided to add, "Plus, I think we're both due for a good night sleep, especially if this is our only break for the season."

Well… by that logic… Akane sighed, glancing at the mattress, letting her eyes hang there for three full seconds.

"I suppose you make a point," she answered reluctantly, slowly stringing the words together. Then she shrugged, hoping to portray apathy to the suggestion. She wasn't sure how well it was working by the smile Kakashi had, making her question if the alcohol took off her usual edge.

The tingling inside was starting to turn warm. She needed to put distance between them before her irritating insecurity returned. "I'm going to change."

Akane went to her gear that was placed on a chair by the closet, pulled out her scroll and disappeared into the bathroom, making an effort not to slam it shut.

What's wrong with me? Akane leaned against the door, head tilted back to stare blankly at the ceiling. She'd been reduced to hiding from Kakashi in the bathroom, of all places. Why was she so worried about his impression of her? It wasn't an issue in the last 7 months they'd been travelling together. Was it because her guard was dropping? It couldn't be from the alcohol. She'd been off her usual character for the last few days, if she was honest. Ever since she thought he was going to die.

Ok, so she was worried when he was hurt, which made Kakashi correct; that she cared about him. Fine. But why was she acting like this? She cared about Benjiro and always kept her cool, although she knew that was more of a mentor role than anything. Then there were the people she knew in Konoha. Everything was normal between them despite their hesitancy to be around her since the Chunin Exams. Again, that was their problem, not hers. Perhaps the fact Kakashi and her were bordering on friendship was so foreign to her that she was struggling to find her footing after such a long time of not having it.

Do I really have that much wrong with me that I can't even act normal with the thought of having a friend?

Was she that broken to the concept?

As if a bucket of cold water drenched her, the prior tingling in her stomach was doused out, leaving her feeling oddly empty. She wanted to deny it. A flicker of hope told her that it wasn't that. But even as she lined up her past relationships on an imaginary timeline, there was one inky spot in the middle that took place after she'd left Konoha, after Kyo's death. Everything before it was normal and abundant. The amount after the stain was… scattered. Few.

Frail.

So. That's likely the source. I never thought me, of all people, would have traumatic baggage.

What did that mean for her? Akane dropped her head, then walked to the sink to brace her hands. The cool marbled counter grounded her, soothing the clammy palms as she stared at her reflection. Her sable locks were still in the neat, loose bun with a wooden flowered pin holding the thick hair in place. She plucked it out, watching as her dark mane fell over her shoulder and across the blue fabric of her yukata.

It wasn't that she was surprised by the revelation of her emotional hindrance. Now that she knew the source of it, she realized it was to be expected. She just didn't think it was an issue until it was.

"How do you fix it," she muttered to her reflection, hoping the mirror would spout off a simple solution to her dilemma.

If that was the reason, how could she counter it? Was it possible to ignore it? No. That's what she'd been trying to do and failing. The result was her lack of trust. The cause was her being exploited for her chakra by someone she relied on to help her, which led her through a dark time in her life. It was one she'd escaped from and was shown a new path with the help of Kenji and Honoka. She managed to befriend them, but it was obvious by her discomfort of Honoka's hovering that her problems extended to even her.

"I could just not bother putting effort into fixing it. It's not like I needed friendship before to get by."

What a lonely thought.

Judging by the swell of stress at the idea, she'd venture to say that wasn't something she truly wanted. Strange that alcohol loosened her inhibitions to listen to her feelings. But even if she decided to give it a go, to try to drop her guard further, then how could she get past these insecurities. The cautious warnings that whispered she was exposing herself to a blade again. Someone was going to manipulate her. Again. Don't be so stupid to fall for it again!

Clenching her eyes, she shook her head to rid herself of the tumorous thoughts. Counter them. Think of the positive outcomes that didn't involve her chakra being used as a tool.

Kakashi had friends. The way his teammates obviously cared for one another, his quiet despair in leaving his village. Even the way his own Hokage and Sannin made all the effort to make this mission as easy as they could for him, although they sent him into the dragon's den for the sake of the village.

There's good people out there. They even let me go with Kakashi to help him.

They certainly didn't need to do that. In fact, they had every right to arrest her and torture her for answers while Kakashi was sent out on his own. But instead of doing what any other leader would, they listened to their subordinate and put their trust in him to hear her out. Even when Akane poked and prodded at Lady Tsunade's patience, wearing it down, hoping to watch it snap, the Hokage still listened and offered trust in the end.

Akane relaxed a little, opening her eyes to glance back at herself. She looked so different in her yukata, almost as if observing a stranger. She was so used to seeing herself in the common kunoichi outfits that something more feminine was foreign. A hand came up to comb through her hair, soft and shiny from the high-quality shampoo the hotel offered. It wasn't that she didn't like dressing up. There just wasn't a need for it.

Kakashi said he thought I was pretty…

Her anxious ponderings began to slow, her focus turning to her image in the present. She thought she looked nice but didn't know if it was just her own vanity coming through. Then again, maybe her assumption was correct and Kakashi was just being polite. Either way, she wanted to hold onto the compliment. It filled her with that bubble of warmth that chased away her inner doubts.

Deciding she'd been in there long enough, she hurried to change out of her clothes and into her sleeping shorts and long sleeve shirt. The prior revelation of her unhealthy coping mechanism could wait for a solution. Perhaps she could ask Honoka about it, seeing as she had some idea of the cause of that stain.

But what if she needed to know more about it to help? Was Akane ready to reveal how horrible of a person she was?

I can't. She wouldn't look at me the same.

Akane simultaneously slapped her cheeks with her hands, trying to focus on anything but the past. Maybe she wouldn't ask Honoka for help. The risk of their meager relationship changing more was too much. If Kenji was here, she'd feel better talking to him. Being a shinobi, seeing the things the lifestyle exposes one to, it created a morbid bond between members of the profession. Honoka, even if married to him, lacked that understanding. So, Akane decided she'd keep it to herself. No one needed to know what she did.

As for her trust issues, she'd try to improve it a little at a time. What was the worst that could happen? As long as she acknowledged the issue, it didn't mean she needed outside help to improve.

After folding the yukata and brushing her teeth, Akane stepped out of the bathroom to see Kakashi already sitting on the edge of the bed, reading that little orange book of his. Upon her entrance, his attention lifted from the pages.

"My turn?"

"All yours," Akane walked to the chair to put her scroll away, then placed the yukata beside the door for cleaning. Kakashi didn't say anything further as he stood from the bed and went into the bathroom, closing it behind him, unaware of Akane's trailing gaze.

How was he able to play it so casual all the time? She was certain he didn't find this mission, with their constant running around, enjoyable. Surely, he missed Konoha and his friends. It wouldn't surprise her if he regretted taking the assignment and wished he never did. Not that she was brave enough to ask him. Quite the opposite. She was terrified to hear him confirm it. Even though it wouldn't be directed at her, that didn't mean it would lessen the blow.

He's always trying to smile. I wonder how often it's fake.

What it came down to was he was putting an effort to keep things light and peaceful. She didn't need to bring the mood down with her own issues. Kakashi had it worse than what she was going through. He actually had friends and connections but was forced to walk away and be called a traitor for their safety. Akane only ruined relationships herself. No dire mission necessary.

Again, she started to slap her cheeks in unison. Stop. Thinking. About. It.

She needed to get in bed. The sooner she fell asleep, the better she'd feel.

Taking the opposite side of the mattress, she crawled under the covers, tossing the excess decorative pillows to the ground. Then she reclined back onto her single pillow, staring at the ceiling and noticing a mountainous mural painted above the bed.

That's random.

Her eyes shifted to the opposite side, seeing that despite the large king size mattress, the edge looked too close for comfort. Kakashi was going to sleep there. Right next to her.

Ok, so she wasn't naïve to sleeping with men. She'd done it before when the rare urge took her. But Kakashi… she respected him. Saw him as an equal. Sharing a bed seemed far too intimate. If they were this close on the dirty ground, it was just part of the job. But a mattress?

Nothing's going to happen—you idiot. Keep it professional and your mind out of the gutter.

But that orange book…. He was reading smut before they shared a bed! What if he made a move?

No-no-no-no-no-no-noooo! He would never!

The covers came over her head, only stoking the fire that lit her cheeks aflame. She felt as if any moment she'd combust and send the mattress into sparks by her embarrassment.

I'm overreacting. I'm making this a bigger deal than it needs to be. If he makes a move, I'll stab him! Simple. And that's it. But he won't do that. He's a gentleman.

Damn it! She needed to get control of herself before Kakashi returned!

---

Five minutes later, Kakashi emerged from the bathroom with baggy joggers and a sleeveless shirt. He normally wouldn't sleep under covers with such an attire but felt modest clothes would make Akane more comfortable than if he was completely shirtless and had shorts on. Still, the idea of her own tiny shorts with nearly all of her legs exposed left him feeling a little warmer at the prospect of sleeping beside her.

He hoped his plan wasn't about to backfire.

Then his gaze drifted to the bed, the source of his concern to find-

"Er…"

On the opposite side of the bed, was Akane sitting up, the comforters covering everything waist down and a red book between her hands. Upon his entrance, her eyes turned to him, an edge of a smirk, then back to the book. The motion wasn't the smoothest, almost too fast for her natural reaction. Kakashi decided not to comment on it.

He was curious to see what she was reading, but the title was hidden behind a newly constructed barrier down the center of the bed. The material?

The excess pillows.

"So, you decided to build a fortress, did you?"

Akane laughed sheepishly, "Well… I figured I move around a lot in my sleep, and I didn't want to bother you with it. So, it's more for your protection."

He didn't buy it.

In all the times he'd taken watch at their camps, he noticed that she hardly moved except to turn over or get warm. She never once portrayed some flailing beast that she insisted she was now.

Hmm, she doesn't trust me to keep my hands to myself, he mused dryly, feeling a sting of betrayal. Rude.

Kakashi had to remind himself that in the end, it was still a victory for him. His little pet project of getting her to trust him, earned him the progress of her sharing a bed. Whether there was a wall between them that rivaled that in China wasn't a concern. Only time would erode that barrier away, which he had an abundant amount of.

Slow and steady wins the race.

So, Kakashi only nodded as if convinced in her explanation. "Are you wanting to keep reading or would you like me to turn off the light?"

Akane hesitated to answer, then closed the book. He doubt she was actually reading anything to begin with. "No. I'm ready to go to sleep."

Nodding, he walked to the switch and turned it off, allowing the small amount of light from the window to guide him back to the mattress where he climbed in. Fortunately, even with the wall of pillows, he had plenty of room on his side to sleep comfortably. Beside him, out of sight, he could feel the bed move as Akane shifted to her side, trying to find the best position to fall asleep in. It didn't take long before it settled, and they were swallowed by silence.

Full bellies, no worries of danger. Even with the slight unease they both shared by their close quarters, the wall of pillows be damned, it didn't take long for them to fall asleep.

---

It took Kakashi longer than he would like to admit waking up. What was normally ranging from 5-30 seconds seemed to take a minute or more to emerge from his sleepy state. Be it from his exhaustion catching up, the comfortable bed, or the little bit of alcohol the night prior, he wasn't sure. Likely a combination of all, if he had to guess. Fortunately, they were in a safe location where threats didn't lurk in the next room over. If that had been the case, he'd a been more concerned with the fact that he was dead to the world all night, never even waking to turn over like he usually did.

As he lay there pondering the abnormally deep slumber, and the edges of awareness started to return, he slowly became cognizant of an unfamiliar contact. Glancing down to his chest, he saw a slender hand resting across his collarbone, attached to a wrist and forearm, but nothing else was visible. The crook of her elbow and beyond disappeared over the poorly constructed pillow barricade. There was a wistful curve of his lips beneath his mask as his attention drifted further to where the wall of downy didn't reach. Similar to her hand, one of her legs was intertwined with his.

What an interesting predicament. Which it was.

On one hand, he couldn't help the bubble of amusement that rose, knowing that teasing her about it would be too easy and last for days to come. Her embarrassment was endearing, and too often he found himself becoming more mischievous if only to see her flustered. The other part, slightly unexpected, was that he just wanted to lay there as they were. The contact was welcoming to him, and he even found himself wishing the pillows never existed to begin with.

He wasn't a stranger to female contact. Occasionally, he would find himself having simple primal relations with a woman of shared interests only to leave shortly after. He was still human. Even the most solitary of people still yearned for basic human connection. Still, most of the time he kept to himself, never really an enthusiast of one-night stands. That didn't mean the idea of having something more didn't cross his mind. There were many times he looked out at others with happy relationships and found himself longing for someone to share experiences. Someone who could share inside jokes with and be fully accepting of him and his faults without judgement. The bond between Minato and Kushina came to mind more times than not.

But given his past, the fact that so many had met a fateful end—the residual effect feeding his self-guilt—Kakashi found himself discouraged to pursue a relationship. If he opened himself to someone so wholly and they ended up being killed, it would undoubtably shatter him. Possibly to the point of no recovery.

He had survived when he found his father's lifeless body at a tender age in their own home. Afterwards, he hardened his resolve when he climbed the ranks to Jonin. Then was devastated when he lost Obito. Then the murder of Rin outright destroyed any remaining sense of humanity left in him. And when he thought it couldn't get worse, Minato and Kushina were killed while he was held back from joining the fight.

The weeks following, he found his soul teetering on a razor's edge of despair and hopelessness. How he kept from considering turning his sword on himself was a mystery he pondered over on the worse days. But if he did that, Obito's death would be meaningless. So would Rin's. He swore he would live for them, if only to spend each day repenting for his loss and suffering for surviving when they couldn't.

The ANBU days were filled with his self-hatred that he turned on his enemies. Ruthlessly, he cut down any threat in their way to the point it alarmed fellow agents. But it never bothered him. His absolute resolve was to finish every assignment with his teammates still returning home with him. But any further relationships were only distractions. Potential tragedies waiting to happen and bring him back to his knees.

Then Team 7 and Gai showed him that his way of living wasn't entirely justified. When one opened themselves up to a relationship, there were increased odds of pain waiting around the corner. But the bonds created, the fun and memories made, could overpower the hurt. And not every friendship ended in catastrophe. However, it the event that it did, there was a support group that offered a shoulder to lean on and ease the pain.

Unconsciously, his hand reached up to his chest and enveloped Akane's softly, his fingertips caressing her palm. His hand was significantly warmer than hers from being under the covers, but the coolness soothed his troublesome thoughts.

Not that Akane was interested in him that way, or at least, he wasn't sure if she was, but she had proven to be fully capable of handling trouble. Her healing abilities eased the prickly fear that he could lose her someday, even if her chakra worked outside of her control. The Chidori attack should have killed her, and yet, the next day he found her picking a fight with Akatsuki-and holding her own.

The frown that had formed from his bleak thoughts and memories released its hold as a huff of amusement left him.

The woman was something else. Nevertheless, that didn't make her invincible.

The fact was, he considered her a close friend and comrade. If their relationship went beyond that, how would he function? It seemed like an extraneous notion that he would be in an intimate relationship with someone. But it wasn't impossible.

What was impossible was predicting the dangers ahead of them. They were trying to get Akatsuki's attention. Being in a serious relationship with Akane would only boost their story to the criminal group and advocate for their favor. Not that he was going to use her for such a ploy. He was just speaking hypotheticals. And that was one of the few positive hypotheticals in the scenario. The negatives, in his opinion, outweighed the pros.

What if they only wanted him? Or her? There was a chance they could kill one of them, particularly if their cover was blown. If that happened, there was no telling what Kakashi would do if Akane died. Would he go berserk in a fit of wild rage, not caring who he took out along the way—mission be damned? Or would it empty him completely, leaving him hollow for the rest of his life and alone forever? Could he survive losing another comrade and friend?

Whether they progressed their relationship further or not, it didn't make that much of a difference. What it boiled down to was that it was too late. He already respected and cared for her.

Kakashi already doomed himself to misery.

So, those were the cold facts. Now what?

Well, there wasn't anything he could do about it. It was the same with Naruto, Sai, Yamato, Sakura, Gai, Jiriaya, and all his other comrades. If he lost them, it would feel like a piece of him was dying too. All he could do to counter it was protecting them with the best of his ability. He'd do the same for Akane. Even if their odds of successfully surviving their mission weren't great.

A hushed sigh pushed through his lips, his dark eye dropping to their hands.

Still. Getting involved with her could complicate things. And yet...

Kakashi's mind drifted to the night prior, coming into the chashitsu and seeing her at the table. His feet almost stopped right there, not expecting the image presented to him. Her dark hair was pulled up into a neat bun with her bangs curtaining around her face. A modest wood hair ornament peaked from the side, lighter than her locks. The yukata she wore was an icy blue with matte floral print, hanging close to her body and accentuating her lissome frame. Even if she was more clothed in the yukata than her kunoichi uniform, it reminded him that she was an attractive woman he traveled with regularly.

Then when Honoka left them to retrieve the sake, he turned back to catch Akane openly staring at him, not at all subtle as he hoped he had been. But even as she scanned his own attire, his attention was locked on her eyes. Whether it was a trick of her yukata or perhaps the light, he wasn't certain, but he swore her slate grey eyes almost looked blue.

Lying in the bed, he was curious if there was indeed more color in the shades of grey, but in order to look for himself, Akane needed to be awake. And he would need to be closer. A combination that he was sure she wouldn't find amusing.

Best not push my luck.

There was a chance (with his own revelations of his feelings included) that it could backfire in several ways. Similar to how his hand still enveloped hers at the moment. Even though he wanted to stay where he was, both because he enjoyed the contact and wanted to tease her, he decided he didn't want to embarrass the woman too much. They were planning to stay a couple more nights, after all, and he was fond of the idea of them sharing the bed again. Downy wall or not. Teasing her would certainly result in one of them sleeping on the floor. Most likely him and not by his choice either.

Half-heartedly, Kakashi untangled his leg from hers, then slid his upper body from beneath her hand, letting it hang over the pillow where it was. Swinging his legs over the edge, careful not to shift the mattress too much, he rested his elbows over his thighs and glanced over his shoulder. From the new vantage point, he could see over the wall where Akane's face was buried in the pillow, her mass of hair splayed over her back. She looked as dead to the world as him. Then again, she had drunk most of the sake the night prior.

Smirking, Kakashi stood and made his way to the bathroom to get ready for the day.

---

When Kakashi emerged from his long, soul-cleansing shower, steam following him into the bedroom while he towel dried his hair, he saw Akane was awake and looking out the window. After brief and surprisingly not awkward 'good mornings', they swapped places until Akane was finished getting ready.

After she returned feeling refreshed and wearing a long sleeve shirt and pants, she asked what he wanted to do for the day. Having not considered it prior, he asked what there was to do in which she listed numerous activities, each falling under the category of normality. Something he didn't get much freedom to do since he'd left Konoha. It didn't take long for Kakashi to pick a few things from her list that sounded enticing, the first being to visit the onsen in the hotel.

"Was the shower not enough for you?" Akane teased, one hand on her hip.

"You can't tell me a hot spring doesn't sound relaxing," he turned back on her.

"No, you're right about that. It sounds amazing." The way she gushed over it reminded him of Sakura when the prospect of an onsen was available on their missions. Who didn't love self-pampering?

Unanimous decision made, they headed to the bathing facilities in the adjoining building to the hotel, connected by a covered walkway. The crisp air was nipping at their skin, the sun for the day hidden behind opaque clouds. There was no doubt about it. Winter had settled in for the coming weeks.

Entering the onsen facilities was like being hit in the face as they were slammed by thick humid wall of air. Eager to get into the warm water, they went to their separate bathing areas with the plan to meet up sometime in the next hour.

Sadly, Kakashi came to realize that 'meet again in the next hour' was not specific enough directions for Akane. After leaving his onsen, wandering around the communal rooms, then politely asking a fellow guest if she could see if Akane was in the women's bath house, he realized she wasn't even in the same building. He searched in their hotel room to find it empty, then decided the last place to look was wherever Honoka was. Checking the lobby on the way through the building revealed a new hostess he hadn't seen prior who smiled and greeted him warmly. Kakashi then asked if she knew where Honoka might be, and the hostess graciously directed him to the kitchen. After saying his thanks, he made his way to the dining areas just as Akane and Honoka emerged from the hall.

"Oh, I was just going to look for you," Akane recalled with a thin cardboard box in her hands that she held close to her body.

Someone lost track of time, Kakashi confirmed derisively. While unamused that he spent the better part of 20 minutes looking for her, he still greeted Honoka with that casual, unbothered attitude.

After catching up with the older woman, it became clear that Akane hadn't cut her onsen short, like he expected. He had just missed her leaving the bathing facilities where she came to sneak some breakfast from the kitchen for them. But Honoka, still having her staff away, was cooking for the guests and caught her red-handed, resulting in forcing Akane to clean some dishes before she could get her prize of food.

Any irritation Kakashi felt melted away into cynical amusement at his partner's misfortune. Serves her right for taking off and not waiting. Had she let him tag along, he was certain Honoka would have given him the food without the payout of labor. Oh, well. Lessons learned the hard way were bound to stick longer.

Kakashi and Akane then said they would later meet with Honoka for lunch as they left to get their jackets to leave the hotel. Once outside in the brisk air, Akane opened the box to reveal her plunders from the kitchen.

"She thinks I just grabbed the plain rice balls," Akane disclosed as she theatrically lifted the lid as if a treasure chest, "but she doesn't know I grabbed her special Devil's Onigiri!" A twisted grin beamed at him as the top flew open to reveal four rice balls with orange and green peeking through the white grains.

"Wow… I've never heard of that before," Kakashi ventured, not entirely sure what he was looking at. The name didn't exactly sound appealing. More like a curse if he ate it and Honoka found out that it was stolen from her kitchen.

"They're so good!" Akane grabbed one and took a sizable bite from it. She closed her eyes and hummed while she chewed, then offered the open box between them.

Not entirely sure what he was getting into, he took a rice ball and brought it to eye level. "So, what's in it?"

"Tempura and some green cabbage or something," she answered between mouthfuls. "Nothing poisonous, I promise."

"I just wasn't sure if it was sweet or not," he defended, then snuck a bite behind his mask.

Come to find out, it was delicious. More savory than he expected, and he found himself preferring to eat that more often than normal onigiri.

"I'm impressed. Your thievery skills are second to none."

"Aw, you flatter me! Keep pickpocketing yourself and you can get as good as me one day."

Kakashi chuckled at that. "I will strive to make you proud, senpai."

Their trip through the streets ended with them making it to the markets. There wasn't much of a crowd that morning, the cold encouraging most to stay indoors until it warmed up in the afternoon. Even some shops were slow to open. That didn't bother Akane and Kakashi who meandered from one place to another, looking at the local trinkets and craft items made by masters who'd honed their skills all their lives. Not much was purchased between them aside from a new scarf, a fine sleek whetstone to sharpen their blades, and a refill of explosive tags.

Shortly after, Kakashi and Akane returned to the hotel where Honoka had tea and light snacks waiting for them in the tearoom. Unlike the night prior, the doors to the garden were slid open to view the dormant garden. A plum tree, with its empty branches, was planted to the right of a stone path that coiled through the vegetation like a monolith serpent. A few shrubs were still plump with waxy leaves, almost looking like glossy emeralds across the dull garden. There was a handful of concrete statues scattered throughout and the bubbling water of a small stream leading to a koi pond.

Despite the biting of winter's breath, both took to sitting in the doorway of the tearoom and covered porch. Legs crossed over one another, Akane sat on a pillow under the porch, half angled to view the garden and politely engage in conversation with Kakashi. Meanwhile, he casually leaned against the doorframe, one leg kicked out, the other bent to allow his arm to rest across his knee. The epitome of lazy comfort.

They both nursed hot cups of tea, Akane cupping her glass in her palms to absorb the heat, steam swirling around the top. Kakashi's own cup remained planted indoors at his side, his attention drawn to the thick white flurries dropping leisurely from the sky. Despite it being in the middle of the day, the brightness from the snow settling on the ground and forming an ivory blanket over the plants, Honoka still had lit lanterns overhead. The warmth of the light flickered with the brisk shift in air, playing with the little shadows under the porch.

"And here comes the snow." It came off her lips with a taste of dreaded sarcasm, but the way her face was relaxed, eyes watching the flurries fall wistfully across the wooden steps, she looked content. Contradicting to anyone else, though Kakashi had been around her enough to notice she found the weather beautiful even if she despised the discomfort that came with it.

"It was only a matter of time. Could have always gone to Wind Country for winter instead."

"I think the only thing worse than the cold is sand. It gets everywhere. And between you and me, I always get itchy when I get it on my legs."

"That's an odd reaction."

"Right? I don't know why it happens either. Do you think I could be allergic?"

"Hm," Kakashi looked thoughtful. "I wouldn't imagine so, if it's only your legs. But I'm no doctor. May have to consult with one to know for sure. I happen to know of a really good medic."

"Ha. Ha. I'm sure that would go over great. 'Hey, Sakura! Do you mind looking over this kunoichi who got me in trouble with the village which led me to be a missing-nin? She gets a rash when sand touches her legs, and that's become a real damper on her mood.' I think the response to that would only end in her trying to dismember me without intentions of putting me back together," Akane mocked wryly.

"Eh. I want to dispute your rendition, but I think you hit the nail on the head."

"Geez. Something to look forward to if we cross their paths."

"Don't worry so much. I'll be there to keep them in line."

Akane raised a brow challengingly. "So, you're telling me you've never had them act outside your orders or go behind your back on anything?"

Well, when she puts it like that… "What do you take me for? A push over?"

"That goes without saying," she muttered under her breath.

Kakashi's face fell into a sardonic glare. "What does that make you?"

Akane flashed him with a bright, cheery smile and waved a hand into the air, "Hey-I'm just kidding! Of course, you're not a push over. You can handle them no problem! No need to make it personal."

"Not convincing in the least."

She only laughed, showing it was all in good nature. Kakashi shook his head in amusement as he leaned back against the wooden siding of the frame, bringing his cup to his lips to take a sip from the still hot tea. They watched curiously as the amount of snow and the size of the flurries increased. Judging by how cold the ground was, it didn't look like the snow would be melting anytime soon. If he had to guess, it was likely the entire village would have a decent layer of snow in the next couple hours.

While each of them reflected on their thoughts, Kakashi toyed with the ways he could confront Akane about the details Honoka gave him the night prior. Particularly, what her connection to the Uchiha Massacre was. Try as he might, however, he realized that there was no subtle way to ease into it. And bringing it up candidly had a greater chance of stoking her defenses rather than urging a civilized discussion. That was the last thing he wanted, specifically now of all times. To ruin a serene moment, sitting together in comfortable contemplation while watching the snow fall, was criminal to consider. There was no way Kakashi wanted to interrupt something so peaceful between them. Not when he was genuinely happy to be exactly where he was at that moment.

"Hey, Akane."

The woman met his gaze, filled with curiosity and attentiveness.

"What do you say if we go out to get drinks after dinner?"

What he expected as a response was a simple shrug or answer saying 'sure'. Maybe a subtle rejection of 'not really feeling it'. What he got instead was her eyes brightening, lips parting as she considered his offer. Her expression was one of pure excitement. Similar to telling Naruto that he'd treat him to ramen at Ichiraku.

The thing that Kakashi didn't know was that Akane never got the chance to drink with another person and enjoy their company. Going out to bars when you were always alone just wasn't a smart move. She obviously lacked friends and allies. The concept of sipping alcohol and having a good time just wasn't possible for her if she wanted to stay out of danger. Secretly, she was envious of the groups exiting bars, cheering and stumbling around in bliss, making poor choices and fun memories with their companions.

"Seriously?"

Wait. Was she not excited? Did he read her wrong? "If you don't want to, then—"

"No! I want to!"

Oh-that's settled then, Kakashi reflected, pleased that she was genuinely eager to drink with him. He just hoped she wasn't secretly like Tsunade and would drink the bar dry.

---

After dinner, Kakashi and Akane made their way to a popular bar that Honoka recommended. She'd made sure to point them in the correct direction, then waved them off with a cat-like grin that unsettled Akane's stomach. Just what was the old woman plotting now?

The two of them eventually came to the entrance of the bar, the lights a beacon to the locals at the corner of two roads, reflecting off the inches of snow on the street. The flurries were still falling, though less steady than that afternoon, and continued to feed the thickness that covered the ground. There was no sky visible beyond the vast clouds, promising that the weather would continue its wintery tricks into the night.

As they entered the building, Kakashi leaned over her shoulder, so he didn't have to yell over the crowd of people inside. "Why don't you get a table and I'll order drinks for us."

"Ok," she agreed. "Can I have beer? Doesn't matter which kind."

"Good choice," he commented, not noticing how edge of her smile quirked a little further at his approval. "I'll go get it and find you."

Akane followed him with her gaze as he disappeared to the bar, then turned her focus on finding an empty table. Even though the establishment was bustling with patrons, it wasn't packed as she expected it to be. There was a handful of empty tables to choose from so she picked the one that was against the wall and away from the door. Taking a seat that faced the bar, Akane glanced around at the other people, hoping she looked alright. She had foregone her usual kunoichi attire and settled for one more casual. The briar-smoke long sleeve shirt was woven cotton with three buttons down the center and her rosy scarf around her neck that she unraveld to hang from her shoulders. She didn't want to pull up her sleeves, so made a note not to lean too much on the sticky table. Her charcoal pants were thin, not ideal for winter, but one of the only civilian-like attire she owned.

As long as I don't look silly, I'm happy. Speaking of… Akane reflected on the images of the people around, inebriated and lively as they jostled boisterously amongst themselves.

Time for her to make her affirmation clear. I will not get drunk and make a fool of myself. I'm here to get a good buzz and enjoy the evening. I will not embarrass myself in front of Kakashi!

Before she could repeat her mental mantra, a new presence sidled into the wooden chair across from her, sapping any excitement she had for the night ahead. Familiar unfriendly mask falling in place, Akane stared at him with an unreadable expression, wondering where he got the nerve to help himself to the table. Did he have a death wish?

"This seat taken?"

"It is."

"Well, I mean by someone other than me," he smiled disarmingly, blond hair combed back with startling blue eyes twinkling at her. "I haven't seen you around here. And I think I'd remember a pretty face like that."

"I'm passing through." Akane's answers were quipped and hollow as her eyes subtly scanned him, evaluating if he was just a ballsy womanizer or a threat. He seemed to be the former so far. Just some idiot looking for a score and overconfident in his ability to get it.

Oh, yeah. This was another reason why I don't like coming to bars. It was starting to become apparent again why there was a list that urged her to avoid such establishments. Not to mention, her mask was a natural deterrent for lude men. Having it stored in her hotel room didn't do her any good. Her naked face failed to dissuade unwanted attention from anyone with a pulse.

"How long do you plan to stay? I'd be happy to show you around to some gems this village has."

"I'm with someone. You're in his seat." She was trying to be affable, taking a page from Kakashi's book. But it was stilted, not that the buffoon across from her was picking up on the hint.

The man scoffed, as if it was an excuse he'd heard a thousand times before. "You don't need to try to scare me off. I'm just trying to be a generous host from the village. So, where you heading after this?"

Akane's patience had snapped. Any forced civility she tried to retain vanished from her. She was just about to lash out at the man, a quick hit to his chin would knock him out and not be uncommon in a bar, when a third presence approached behind him.

Kakashi stood uncomfortably close to the back of the chair, the man in the seat, still ignorantly unaware, until the shinobi leaned over him to set a glass down in front of Akane.

"Beer for you…"

The man's head snapped up to the newcomer, eyes bulging as he leaned off the side of the chair.

Kakashi stared down at him, dark eye unblinking, "…and one for me." His hand, not holding his glass, settled on the back of the wooden chair, inclining into the man's personal space further. "And who might you be?"

"Hey-hey, I didn't know, man. I thought she was by herself. I didn't know she had company!"

"I told you I did," Akane disputed flatly, finding morbid satisfaction at the way he visible flinched. "Your ego must've thought it meant you. Afterall, how could a woman be with someone else when your presence is around, right?"

Rattled, the man hauled himself from the chair and apologized as he returned to the bar where a group of men heckled him in his failure.

Ignoring the scene, Kakashi pulled the chair around, so he faced the door of the bar, sitting beside Akane as close friends did.

"I hope my company is better than the guy before," he teased.

Akane, feeling her previous anger melt away, lifted the beer to her lips, smiling slyly behind the glass. "Well, no pressure but you have big shoes to fill."

For the next hour, they drank and talked as they watched people throughout the bar. A game started of who could guess which person was having secret affairs, who was celebrating what, and who were possible shinobi in the crowd. It was difficult to tally up the scores when the majority of it was speculation, but every now and then, someone would reveal a detail that supported one of their theories.

Eventually, the rotation of new faces with old slowed down and their conversations returned to each other. The topic of books came up and Kakashi had finally learned that despite not doing it often, she actually enjoyed reading. That her favorite genres were adventure, mystery, fantasy, and thriller, to name a few. When asked about romance, her cheeks lit up and she denied it heavily.

"If you haven't read the Paradise series, I highly recommend it," Kakashi projected pride unabashedly but Akane shook her head.

"Smut is a little too much for me to be reading. I'm an amateur with that genre."

"I'll have you know, that's a common misconception of the novels. There's an intense plot in the stories. It's not just smut."

"Hey, I'm not shaming you. I'm just saying I'll stick to what I know."

"Fine, but it's your loss," Kakashi conceded. Something with the way he defended the books so readily, and then gave in too quickly told her it wasn't the last she would hear on the subject.

What Kakashi learned about her was fiction was for pleasure, but she was keen to read topics of chakra and combat to hone her skills. When asked why that was a method of learning, she explained a little about her past. That when in Konoha, that was her only real source of improving her jutsus, which she continued when she became a missing-nin. In fact, most of the jobs she took were for scrolls and clans that retained knowledge she wanted. Between delivering the items to the owners, she would either read it, or discreetly make copies for later research. Those were the books in the scroll he'd seen all those months ago in the cave.

In return, she asked questions about how Kakashi climbed the ranks so quickly. Whether it was a from the alcohol, or genuinely comfortable with sharing, he decided to trade some of his own past with hers. He explained how his father was highly skilled and started to teach him at a young age after his mother had died and his control of chakra started. It gave him something to do in his free time before the academy. Not that his natural knack for it didn't help when it came to mastering jutsus. There was a bout of time that he went through a similar literary learning experience between his dad passing away and the academy. After that, the guidance of Minato sensei homed in and sharpened his techniques until making rank to Jonin.

Soon, the conversation started to slow, and they were at a comfortable limit of alcohol for the evening. Kakashi was ecstatic that she was a responsible drinker and didn't go all out. That made his wallet, and his sanity, that much happier.

Heading back to the hotel, they fell in step beside one another. Their breath formed small puffs of heat into the air, the snow still falling around them. The flurries that landed on the streetlamps were melting away, causing water to drip into the fluffy ground around the posts.

Kakashi kept a steady pace with Akane, his hands stuffed into his pockets. He glanced over at her, seeing the color in her cheeks hiding behind her loosely wrapped scarf. She wasn't complaining of the cold, and he figured the alcohol in their system helped take the edge off.

"This was fun," Akane said, breaking the quiet between them. The subtle crunch of snow beneath their shoes was soothing to her ears.

"I agree. We should make time to do this more often," Kakashi added. "It's nice to have a sense of normality every once in a while."

"I have to admit, this was a first for me."

"Going to a bar?"

"Yeah," she held out a hand to catch snowflakes as they walked. "The only time I went out with company was in Konoha. It was usually after training that we'd go get lunch or dinner." A short breathy laugh left her. "We were too young to go to bars."

"I suppose I hadn't considered that. To tell you the truth, I'm not one to go out for drinks either. Every now and then, when my comrades had something to celebrate, we'd go out, but that's about it."

"I didn't think it was your scene. I was surprised you'd even asked to go."

"I'm surprised you accepted. But now I know why."

Akane smirked, but before she could contribute more to the topic, something pricked at the back of her neck. An all-too-familiar feeling that something wasn't right. Kakashi halted in his tracks, right as she paused. Then looped his arm through hers and pulled her forward.

"Keep walking." His warning was sharp and hushed. A sense of urgency soaking his words. "We can't let whoever's following us know we're aware of them."

Akane didn't answer, feeling she'd rather confront them head on instead of pretending they were unaware. But she trusted Kakashi enough to allow him to pull her along. His instincts were just as fine-tuned as hers, after all.

While they ambled through the empty streets, the world around them unnaturally bright from the pristine snow-covered town, Akane got the feeling she was walking through an entirely different world with new dangers. It was true that she hated winter because of the cold, therefore limited her exposer to missions. But what she didn't add to her explanation to Kakashi was that snow made surviving on the run much more difficult.

Not only was the surrounding area encased in reflection at night, plucking shadows from the depths of forests or behind buildings, but it affected the noise. Normal sounds didn't travel the same through snow. The porous crystal flakes absorbed sound waves, creating that hushed atmosphere. Then there was the crunching under feet, the foot prints themselves, the way sound got louder when snow turned to ice and reflected noise. It was as if Nature wanted to up the stakes and see who was strong enough to survive the harshest season.

Right now, the only thing making it to her ears was the jolting of her heart with the threat of danger and the crunching beneath her shoes. How many were there that followed them? There was no doubt it was someone with a chakra signature because they had foolishly leaked enough to alert them. But whether they were alone was unanswered. She would like to assume that it was only one, but ambushes usually required multiple assailants.

It wasn't long before they got their answer.

A fine, razor wire impaled the empty space, so thin that not even a wisp was felt as it swept across Akane's shoulders, slicing through her flesh and bones as if nothing more than wet paper. She halted where she stood, half step with her right leg forward. Then a splash of crimson spurted into the air. Kakashi lurched away in time to avoid the invisible wire, only to meet three senbons in his neck. Akane's body collapsed in a heap, face first in the snow with eyes frozen open, dull and bleak. Not even a puff of air leaving her lips. Wincing and growing weaker, Kakashi dropped heavily to his knees, one hand to the senbons, the other holding him up from splaying across the cold ground like Akane's body.

Three strangers landed in the street around them, dark cloaks billowing around their legs, save for the porcelain animal masks beneath the hoods. Monkey, spider, and bird.

"Hatake Kakashi," the spider announced, voice muffled behind the mask. "You're a difficult man to find. But then again, I expected nothing else from one as renowned as you."

Kakashi glared at them, feeling his strength ebbing as foreign pressure filled his right side, from his neck to his chest and arm. The type of pressure that came from one thing. Poison.

"Why are Root Agents all the way out here? You're out of your jurisdiction," he forced out between breaths, feeling the toxins start to hinder normal functions.

"The Hokage gave permission to cross boundaries, so long as we aren't caught. Can't have another country capturing you for something as petty as cash. You're worth more than that. You should feel honored."

The Monkey started to move closer, chakra string being pulled out to tie him up. Just as he leaned over to apprehend Kakashi, both him and Akane's body dispersed in black smoke, startling the Root who jumped away from source.

"I should've known it was too easy to take him down," Spider murmured as he lowered his arm from his face. His attention dropped to the ground where the kunoichi had bled out, only to see the blood evaporating into the air in a charcoal vapor, steaming in the crisp temperatures. "They're around here still. Find them and kill them on site!"

---

Another tremor rattled the ground, this time much harsher than the last. The shockwave was so fierce that trees trembled at their roots and shook free bundles of fine white snow from their branches. The pair were fighting off the Root agents on the outskirts of town, where innocent lives were out of reach of danger. Konoha's elite shinobi were out for blood, desperation urging their techniques to deal that fatal blow with no consideration of anyone else in the area.

The blade Akane swung was sharp enough to cut flesh as if it posed no resistance. At once a fountain of red came from the wound, the ebb and flow in time with a terrified heart. A stolen kunai that was used against its owner, stealing his life. A cruel way to go. Ironic, bitter. Akane hoped she'd never meet the same fate in the end. There was no peace in going out that way with your own blade turned against you. Almost like life was slapping you in the face one last time, filling with mirth as you bled out in disgrace.

Better him than me.

It was difficult to gauge how many more enemy were eagerly looking for their kill. The three men prior, that confronted the clones in the street, were just the group that found them first. Other masks lurked through the roads and trees, having the count reach nine Root agents so far. Eight of which were killed or injured, forced to fall back to recover.

Just then, Kakashi darted ahead of her from a branch above, tipping his head to follow. Relief flooded her, confirming he was safe from that thunderous attack. As they sprinted through the snow-covered forest, leaving nary a mark in the pristine white powder that coated the thick branches, Akane sensed another enemy in pursuit. Both of their gazes dropped to the source, realizing that the Spider agent was just a level below, preparing his next move.

Dread filled the kunoichi, knowing that deflecting a lethal strike which wasn't visible, left her praying to emerge unscathed instead of having a plan to counter. And seeing as the Spider was locked onto her, ready to end her existence, she had a right to be concerned.

"I'll enjoy dismembering you!" the man shouted just as his hand swept out of his cloak, sending out those invisible wires at her.

She hated herself for it, but Akane flinched, just as she launched off the branch, and waited for the razor-sharp wires to slice effortlessly through her. Her body floated through the air waiting. Waiting. Then her sandals connected onto the next branch, miraculously still unscathed. Surprised, she glanced below her to see where the threat was and looked just in time to see Spider's blood cut in a vivid arc through the frigid air before being magnified tenfold in the snow below the branch. What had been a blank canvas across the forest floor became painted in a way that would haunt the civilians who would discover it. In that split second of flinching, Kakashi had dropped to the Root agent's level and sliced through Spider's artery where it surged and beat out by the slowing heart.

"Kakashi!" Akane gasped, shocked by his speed to stop the man.

"Are you alright?" he asked, looking up at her as Spider gurgled through the blood, hands pawing at his throat to quench the bleeding.

"I'm fine." Her voice shook slightly in its delivery, that lingering certainty of her death still feathering her nerves.

Kakashi didn't spare the Spider a last glance and leapt to her branch, landing softly beside her. "I hate to say it, but you know we can't stay here."

Akane was already aware, even as she watched the Spider fall off the branch and land unconscious on the ground. Scarlet leaked across the powder, sinking and melting the surface snowflakes until the blood cooled to similar temperatures.

"I know," Akane replied, dragging her eyes to Kakashi's crimson. "But we still need to get our gear from the room and not lead any other Root agents to Honoka."

"We're not far from the hotel." Kakashi lifted his chin in the direction of the building. Through the trees, the hill where it and the shrine were located was visible in the distance. "I suppose it's my turn then."

Brows pinching together, she was prepared to ask what that meant until Kakashi slammed his hand to the branch and activated his summoning jutsu. In a mix of white cloud and snow, a small chocolate pug appeared with vest and bandana. Akane noticed that the last time she'd seen him in the battle to free Benjiro, the dog had a Konoha protector on. Now, it was simply a blue fabric.

"Hey, Kakashi—Ah!" The dog faltered as his eyes landed on her, paw coming up into the air. It faintly reminded her of an old lady clutching her pearls in appalment. "Wh-what is that harpy woman doing here?"

Kakashi sighed, his attention shifting to Akane who frowned at the small dog. She wasn't exactly expecting a warm welcome from the domestic canine, but the insult was unnecessary. Instead of justifying the pug a response, she crossed her arms and waited for Kakashi to intervene. She didn't have to wait long.

"I took time to explain the situation to my ninken when we left Konoha. But didn't specify your involvement at the time because I wasn't sure how long it'd last," he explained, looking embarrassed at his summoning's rudeness. He then looked to Pakkun who still glared at her. "Pakkun. She's been my partner since leaving Konoha. I'd appreciate it if you showed her some respect."

"How can you trust her?! She already tried to kill you once!"

"I wasn't trying anything," Akane muttered flatly.

Kakashi was keen to keep the peace and brought a hand up between them. "Akane has proven herself trustworthy. If she wanted to kill me, I have no doubt that fight would've ended much worse for both of us if we went full force."

"Just because she hasn't turned on you yet, doesn't mean she won't tomorrow. I thought you were smarter than this, Kakashi! She's feral!"

His impatience was starting to bleed through. "She's already saved my life once. I'd say that was a stupid move on her part if she wanted me dead."

Pakkun shut his muzzle, and the argument was abated. He still side eyed her suspiciously, hesitant to change his perception of her just yet. Even so, Pakkun was a smart dog. The leader of the pack. He was big enough to acknowledge that he may have the wrong idea of her character if Kakashi advocated for her.

"… Thank. You," he said stiffly, his curly tail lowered, rancor eating away at his pride.

Akane wasn't sure what to say and instead looked at Kakashi. "Are you sure you want him to get our stuff? I could just summon Aki."

"What?!" Pakkun reeled, jumping to his feet, teeth barring in complaint. "I will not be shown up by that stupid beast!"

"You better watch it," Akane threatened darkly, staring down her nose at the small dog.

"Enough, you two," Kakashi sighed, standing to his full height beside Akane. "If Pakkun is seen, he won't create a mass panic by the locals. A giant wolf isn't exactly subtle."

Akane huffed but said nothing. Kakashi glanced at his summoning to explain the situation.

"We're under attack by Root agents and can't retrieve our gear from the hotel without risking anyone following us. The owner of the hotel is named Honoka and she's middle-aged woman, usually at the front counter. She can show you where our room is."

"Alright. That's simple enough. But uh," Pakkun glanced around the trees, "where exactly are we? This doesn't look like Fire Country."

"We're in Bird right now."

"Wha?! And Root Agents came all this way for you?"

"Seems to be the case," Akane answered, troubled by the prospect that entailed. "This isn't normal procedure in the least. Someone is making some moves and got Tsunade to agree to it."

Kakashi looked pensive. "She may have been pushed into a corner. Knowing what the mission is and needing to pretend otherwise could have tied her hands when trying not to be suspicious."

"Still," Pakkun added, face grim, "this doesn't bode well if you have to worry about them too."

"That's something we'll have to consider later," Akane nodded, then kneeled to Pakkun's level. He took a half step back, not sure what she was going to do. "Can you get our stuff? And tell Honoka that I'm sorry. I'll try to visit again when it's safe to do so."

Whether he was still hesitant to trust her or not, her favor was enough to spark pride in his little body. Wagging his tail, he nodded, promised he'd be back and took off into the forest, determined to prove his worth.

Ten minutes later, he returned with their gear, two fabric wrapped bento boxes and a note to stay safe, courtesy of Honoka. Not wanting to loiter any longer, the three of them took off toward the hills, eager to put distance between them and the valley. If any Root agents were still around, then hopefully they were still combing through the village, unaware that their targets were sprinting to another country.

"Is there a way they knew you had a connection to this village?" Kakashi asked, wind chilling the skin on his exposed face.

"Not a chance. My past teammates never even knew I came to Bird Country."

"Perhaps, they followed you two," Pakkun offered, extending his legs to their full extent between jumps. "Bird Country is out of the way from most nations."

Kakashi ruminated about the explanation. "It makes sense if that's the case. Regardless, we should consider they have spies in other villages as well. We can't take anything for granted until we learn how they found us."

Akane remained silent, pondering if there was any signs she missed from the village Kakashi was healed in to here. Any hint that they were being trailed. But nothing came to mind.

And that was more unnerving than if they had a shadow following them.

Hello!

Yeah, this was a bit of a long filler, but like I said, I wanted to get their 'relationship' (platonically or not) solidified before Akatsuki. I skipped it before in the first written version of the story and didn't care for that when rewriting it. And of course there's some cliché scenarios in the chapter but I tried to put my twist on it. Some classics are still fun to read, imo. Even if I did cram it all into one long chapter, and if the details started to get away from me on the local lore. Sometimes it works to benefit a story when unexpected twists fly off the keyboard. Other times, I worry it's hurting the length.

Ok, enough ranting about that.

It may seem a little Akane-centric in these few chapters, but I promise it's because I'm setting it up for the plot down the road. When the other stuff starts happening, there won't be a proper place to add it. Besides what better way than when Kakashi and Akane are learning to work together for the sake of the mission?

The next chapter may be a little shorter, I haven't decided exactly how that will work but it will be a time skip. Soon, my lovely readers. Things are about to get intense.

Thank you for checking out my story if you're new. To the veteran readers, thanks for sticking around on the journey and the reviews!

Until next time, stay safe!