Burn
Timing in life is everything.
- John Sculley
Chapter Four
The days that passed since I had tried to speak to Maya were long ones. I had been split between my work and the Exam talks. I still worked out in the mornings - sometimes my Darling joined in. Mostly he preferred lazy mornings. I knew I couldn't keep doing as I had been. I soon started swimming again, doing deep dives to build up my strength and stamina. I did finally check out my jutsu abilities. Having no delay was grand. However, that also meant I couldn't use the delay to fight back against genjutsu. It wasn't very convenient considering I may have to deal with Itachi of all people.
Now. My other concern was Maya. I could pretend I didn't know Maya and try to keep her at bay. But it seemed since the people who I didn't want to know who she was already knew - it seemed foolish.
So, I went and asked Kurenai if I could invite a friend along on our next girl's day out. She was thankfully alright with it.
"Sure," Kurenai said, blinking. "I wouldn't mind it at all."
"Thank you. It's been a bit since I've seen her." I explained and Kurenai paused. She sent me an odd glance.
"Did you know her from working with Jiraiya-sama? Or is she a connection to…?" Kurenai asked.
I paused. I had nearly forgotten my cover story. That's not good.
"From Jiraiya-sama. It's kind of a secret." I said softly. Kurenai nodded solemnly. She probably heard Maya's cover story as well. Gossip runs fast in a village of ninjas.
The exam talks were still about the same. Mostly dull talks, what should be where, and how the trap should be laid. The finer details of the exam, Gaara wasn't able to be involved in. Soon, the talks shifted from the future exam to Suna's wish on how students should be trained.
"I believe both Shikamaru and Tami can help train our students in Konoha ways." Gaara said. He looked over to both of us. I couldn't quite get a read on the young man.
I stiffened. What? I had been told so many times that I didn't quite fit into Konoha. I felt speechless. And yet, here, the Kage of Suna believed me suitable to train his ninja. Tsunade paused. She looked at me, her face falling for a split second before she hid it. Shizune smiled weakly.
"Tami-san isn't available for work outside of the village," Shizune added softly.
"She's on other assignments right now. I'll find a suitable replacement." Tsunade continued.
Baki frowned. He shot a look between us all and then stared right at me.
"I see." He rumbled softly.
Gaara looked at me for a long minute. He nodded finally. I was careful not to breathe out a sigh of relief. When we parted for a break, I had half expected Baki to approach me.. Baki hadn't- though he gave me a quick glance before ignoring me altogether.
Gaara did so afterward, looking up at me through narrowed eyes.
"Did you ask your Hokage to avoid me?" He asked. While his blunt nature was rather refreshing, I wasn't quite expecting him to be so direct.
"I hadn't. She's telling the truth. I've a full plate." I said. I barely had time to really continue investigating or even train more. I'd have to talk to Ibiki to lessen how often I was in the office. They didn't need me that much for digging through intel.
"I see," Gaara replied softly. "Then how will I understand Naruto?"
Kankuro and Temari stood behind him.
"She sounds like she's busy, Gaara," Temari said softly.
"Sounds stupid," Kankuro grumbled. Gaara turned to them and - and I felt bad. The boy was like Naruto. I wondered if Naruto had a chance to be like him. Bloodthirsty (or at least like I saw him when I met him), emotionally numb, and the only love he had seen was the tattoo on his forehead. I really didn't think much before I-.
"Come on, then. Lunch on me." I said, nodding to the city awaiting beyond. All three siblings paused, each of them turning to look at me. Gaara's eyes widened just a little bit. The other two stared at me, stunned.
"Free food!" Kankuro cheered but was quickly silenced by his sister with a dark look and a soft whack to the side. I couldn't help but laugh. The two were a funny pair. Gaara didn't react, though - moving to stand with me. Temari shot me an unsure look before the group of us headed on out to find lunch.
"There's a lovely little eatery not too far," I told them. It was the very same I went to with Kakashi all those years ago when we decided to be civil. Maybe the place was good luck.
Temari kept giving me odd looks, Kankuro hurriedly went to take me up on a free lunch, and Gaara -. He was unbothered. He was calm throughout.
As we sat down, the trio looked at me through the corners of their eyes. I picked at my food. Right then, it was time to get to business.
"So, Gaara - tell me. Why so curious, ah?" I asked, looking up at him. He remained unblinking, staring back. He didn't seem at all surprised. His two siblings shifted uncomfortably.
"You're close to Naruto. I wish to be more like him." Gaara said flatly.
My eyebrows nearly hit my hairline. Gaara wanted that? I was rather surprised that was his wish.
"I fit in this because-?" I hedged. Frustration flickered in his brow for a second and he sent me a look.
"You are close to Naruto. He has friends and loves. I… I want to learn this too. He's talked about you. And your display over another student tells me you could help." He explained. His tone made me think of Charles in a way. It was matter of fact, dull - as if the answers were obvious. I breathed out slowly.
"Right then. I should have you know that I deal in trades." I said. The other two siblings glanced at each other. Gaara's eyes narrowed.
"Trades." He echoed flatly.
I had to be crazy to consider this. Maybe. But they were allies, and I've done stupid things before. Hopefully, Kakashi doesn't get cross with me.
"Mm. Trades. I'll help you with this. Maybe you can help me train up. My fighting is weak and my ego is still bruised from having my backside handed to me." I said.
Kankuro sniggered openly. Temari's eyes narrowed.
"We aren't strong enough to fight against Kabuto either." She said flatly.
"Yes, but I've a feeling you'd provide a challenge for me. I saw your skills - you're all good. I've only been a Kunoichi for three years, give or take. I've got the general sneakiness down. The fighting bit I'm rather rusty on. I've ideas on training but my options are few." I continued to explain.
"That gray-haired guy with the mask seemed easy on you. Maybe you should ask him?" Kankuro said and his sister shot him a look. I fought back a blush. Kakashi? Did these kids pick up on -. I really was rather open about it, even more than I thought.
"That isn't a viable option," I said finally. Kakashi stayed his hand too often. Gaara was a cold-blooded killer.
'Why do I always pick the hard route?' I wondered.
I could see Gaara still processing. He looked up at me, his gaze narrowed.
"I told you Shukaku wanted to kill you." He drawled.
"Yes, and my initial sensei was Ibiki. You'll rather fit right in, me-thinks." I said airily.
Finally - Gaara nodded.
"When you can, we will be each other's sensei's. Your Kage said you were busy." He said. I tried to not shift.
"I - might be locked in Konoha for the foreseeable future. Tsunade-sama was rather peeved at my performance as of late." I explained. Gaara grunted and Kankuro tried not to laugh at me. Temari nearly sighed, sending me a look.
It was - odd. These kids almost felt like they were vastly mature for their ages. They almost felt like compatriots in arms. Almost like they had a story similar to mine. How odd.
We parted not too long after, promising to meet up early the next morning. I knew I was probably going to get my backside handed to me again, but at least I could get stronger. Hopefully the siblings weren't that cruel to tease me. Thought - Temari's treatment of Tenten said otherwise. Oh well. Markings of a fine lady and all that.
The rest of my day was dedicated to work, getting that extra time off from work to train (though Ibiki didn't seem to support my efforts). I planned on seeing Maya later that night. Get her out of the house she probably didn't leave much, and the two of us hang out with Kurenai. Hopefully my friend and I would be able to help Maya relax and come to terms with where we were now. I hoped Kurenai wasn't prominent in the show. Then again, she was a sensei.
'I'm sure it'll be fine.' I thought; Maya would be okay either way. She was fine with the others.
X
Maya hadn't expected the knocking at her door (or, Jiraiya's) at a little after four p.m.. It was Tami again. Maya had peeked out one of a nearby window to see. She still felt a little awkward about the earlier interaction but - but it was okay. It was her old roommate. And she knew Tami hadn't meant anything by it. She sometimes got ahead of herself.
She answered the door. Tami stood there in civilian clothes, a grin on her face. Her hands were in her back pockets as she leaned on her back heel.
"Wanna go to the bathhouse?" She asked, a grin spreading across her lips.
It was so weird to see Tami like this. Bathhouses, living in Konoha, dating Kakashi (she still couldn't believe that one. She just - snapped into living in Konoha like it was nothing. In some ways, Maya resented her for it. In others, she admired her. Then again, Tami hadn't really known the anime like she did. It was unfair of Maya to even think that way. But she knew it.
"The bathhouse?" Maya echoed. Tami hummed and nodded her head in the direction.
"Kurenai and I have a meet-up - thought you might like to tag along. She's a gem." Tami provided.
Maya fought off a cringe. Kurenai….. Kurenai, whose lover is killed in the Akatsuki Suppression Mission.
"I - well." Maya stuttered. There were thousands of reasons she could think of to pass on this. Perverts like Ebisu, her not knowing bathhouse etiquette. Then her not able to carry on conversations for too long. So many things could go wrong! And she might-
"It's rather lovely after a long day. She's a dear, rather sure she'd be delighted to meet you." Tami continued.
Maya turned a little red. "But the perverts!"
Tami laughed, her eyes twinkling, "We get back at those sorts. Come on, then. Are you gonna stay inside, and hide from the world?"
Maya glanced down the street. She nibbled at her lip. Anbu were probably following her. And then Ebisu. And then -.
"Okay." Maya agreed, forcing herself to make a decision. It did sound nice. And she didn't want to turn Tami down. But she hoped nothing bad happened. It couldn't, right? Surely the cannon was safe enough.
Although Maya was sure Tami saw her discomfort, she didn't comment on it. She just nodded and the two were off. Maya felt a little stiff. Like her arms were locked and her legs ready to bolt. She glanced up at Tami. Confidence. She still had her hands in her jacket, walking effortlessly. Her platinum blonde hair fell across the hitai-ate on her forehead nicely.
"So, I've a bet you have some lovely little stalkers since you arrived." Tami began, sending Maya a grin. "Had a few myself for a few years. Hiruzen-sama was a bit unsure of me. Arguing with him as I had."
Stalkers… The Anbu?
"You mean the Anbu? Yeah… yeah, I think so. I think Tsunade mentioned them." Maya replied softly. And the way she talked about Sarutobi Hiruzen…. She wondered if the third hated it or endured it. Maya didn't care, she didn't like him. But still….
"Tell me - are you under a curfew? I was under one for a while. Anbu would show up and tell me to go home." Tami continued
"Y-yeah. Gotta be in by dark. Tsunade… Tsunade-sama said it was for my safety."
Tami hummed softly. The two continued on, Maya lost in thought until she saw the bath house. It was exactly like it was in the manga and anime. Small, miniscule differences - but there it was. Kurenai stood off to the side, waving at them as they approached.
"Hey! You made it." Kurenai said in greeting.
"And in one piece," Tami replied, a small smile playing on her lips. She nodded to Maya, "Kurenai, this is Maya. Maya, this is Kurenai. She's an absolute gem. And Maya's a sweetheart. I'm rather sure you'll get on well."
Kurenai sent Tami an amused look and then gave Maya a bright smile.
"It's good to meet you!" She said happily.
Maya nearly wanted to blush - it felt a little overwhelming. "Oh! Uh - it's good to meet you too!"
After the pleasantries were exchanged, the trio headed in. Maya did overhear Kurenai's murmur to Tami.
"I can see what you mean. She kind of makes me think of Hinata-chan."
Tami hummed in agreement. This time Maya did blush. That was a compliment and it did help her to relax. She knew Kurenai cared for Hinata. Maybe Maya was a little bit too stressed out.
'Yeah, probably.' She figured softly.
Although being naked with strangers was a little weird, Maya adapted soon enough. It wasn't so bad once they were in the water and relaxing. Kurenai teased Tami about something, which Maya couldn't quite understand at the moment. But she sat and relaxed. It was nice.
"So, tell me Maya-chan. Do you like it here so far?" Kurenai asked. Maya paused. She glanced at Tami and then back at Kurenai.
"I… I guess so. I like it okay." Maya managed, trying to get her words to sound right.
"I guess it's different from where you're from? Tami-chan told me you two met years ago while she was working for Jiraiya-sama." Kurenai replied, smiling kindly.
"Yeah. Yeah, it's different. Who would have known, you know what I mean?" Maya said, feeling a little awkward. Hopefully, no one really looked into that connection very much.
"Well, you're here now. I'm sure Jiraiya-sama is glad that you're safe."
Maya felt a little bit of the tension she had been holding onto dissipate. Maybe having Jiraiya as her dad wasn't too bad? It would work out in the end, and he was way better than her own father. Make no mistake, Maya did think Jiraiya was a pervert and a bit of a mess, but he didn't get angry drunk and throw beer bottles.
The night, in the end, was great. It was nice to be out and just relax. Kurenai didn't push much, and Tami tried to cheer her up. It was a little weird when Anko showed up and started pestering Tami.
It struck Maya immediately how Tami was very much a part of the Kunoichi and Shinobi here. While Maya might have seen the show and knew the manga by heart - Tami knew a side of the village Maya never would. She didn't really want to be a ninja, so that was okay. But still. How interesting was it?
X
Seeing Maya finally breathe a little easier had been a treat. We hadn't hung out for too terribly long. I had went to find my Darling after walking Maya home. The next morning - well.
I woke up early - earlier than normal. I went to the training grounds where all the siblings were waiting for me. I could almost feel the shift in the air.
"I thought only Gaara and I…" I began.
"We aren't leaving him alone." Temari replied flatly. She already had her fan out. I eyed it distastefully. I didn't like that fan for a few reasons. I'd rather not end up like poor Tenten.
Grand.
"What - you scared those Konoha ANBU will laugh at you when we beat you?" Kankuro taunted. I snorted, glancing at the trees.
"They've seen Ibiki-san hand me my own backside on a regular basis. I'm rather sure it's old news." I replied dully. They also threw tomatoes at me. Rather sure they had their fill of laughs on my behalf.
These three were a headache. Mind, I chose not to use my Call or Genjutsu. I needed to figure out a way to fight more aggressively. The Trio figured out the problem nearly immediately.
"Attack me!" Kankuro roared, his mannequin lurching towards me.
"Mmmm. Me thinks not." I told him as I danced away. I tossed a few kunai towards him, and Temari dealt with them with just a wave of her fan.
"You have no offensive jutsu?" Temari snapped.
"I've one and genjutsu." I replied, "I thought I might have to increase my repertoire."
"You might?! Why haven't you used it!" Temari growled, slamming her fan into the ground. She sent me a seething look. Gaara rounded behind both of his siblings and his sand curling around them - heading towards me.
"Then use it." Gaara growled. His sand shot towards me and I ran off. I moved quickly as it crashed. I knew Gaara would soon turn the ground against me - had to get off it. Temari surely would go after me once I jumped into the air. So I went to the trees. Kankuro would be next and - ah, there we are. His mannequin lumbered after me. Those chakra strings of his - I wondered if he'd be willing to teach me that little trick. Might be handy.
Gaara had a plan. I could see it in his eyes - he wanted me to attack. I hadn't much choice so for the first time in a long time I used my Canary Call. Temari fared the best, being used to wind and throwing it around. She was able to hide behind her fan and used it as an anchor. The Mannequin went flying. Kankuro, too, withheld it better.
It was Gaara who surprised me. His hands covered his ears. He was crumpled to the ground, groaning in pain. His sand trembled in the air.I hadn't expected it to affect him-
A deadly look crossed in Gaara's eye. His sand shot towards me in a wholly different way. The intent to kill filled the air. I cursed and moved out of the way. Temari reacted first, shouting at her brother to stop. I had hid behind a tree until the trio had managed to calm the boy down. I returned later. His urge to kill was gone but the ire in his eye remained.
"Don't do that again." He growled.
I raised my hands in defense.
"Promise I won't, luv. You okay?" I agreed easily. The poor kid seemed unsettled. Gaara sent me a dark glower.
"I'm fine. The sound rattled around and got stuck in my ears. Shukaku wanted your blood." He seethed.
Grand.
"Please do tell him to get in line. I've quite a few already who want me dead. It would be rude for him to cut in." I said, trying to lighten the air. The two other siblings sent me an odd look. Gaara, however, stared at me for a long minute. He broke out into laughter.
Well, at least someone thought I was funny.
Temari looked at me. She frowned.
"What is your chakra nature?" She asked. I paused, glancing around.
"I - ah, I don't know," I said.
Her lips pressed together, though she said no more.
Gaara looked me over as Kankuro dragged his mannequin back over.
"That was pretty cool, though. You should do more of that." The puppeteer said.
I gave him a bow and he grinned.
"Tell me, what are those handy little strings you use?" I asked him, looking him over. Kankuro's grin turned a little bit deadlier.
"Liked that, huh? It's Chakra Threads."
"I'd love to learn."
"Bet you would."
Ah, fair enough.
"Let me know if you'd like a trade." I said; I saw the look in his eye and added, "in reason. No super secrets for some Jutsu, mm?"
He just scoffed at me.
The trio didn't stay for much longer. I had other training to get done, wanting to strengthen my muscles and lungs. Before Gaara left, however, I managed to get him to create a decent sand/stone ball that I could carry underwater to add resistance. Yes, I was going to do some heavier training.
I wasn't looking forward to it. To avoid my avoiding the training - I jumped right in.
I swam a few laps and soon enough carried my stone ball underwater as I tried to walk on the river's floor. It was tiring work, but this was what I signed up for.
I needed to get stronger. While I trained, carrying that weight back and forth, I mulled over the case. I needed answers. It had been days since I had gotten anywhere.
Maybe I should investigate this Shisui. I'd check the archives - see if I could find him. He could be another Uchiha or some other person, even if he was a cousin. There might be clans mingling. Maybe a Hyuuga? I hoped not. The Hyuuga compound would be a nightmare to try to sneak into. All those sensor types? Mm. Would be foolish. While I knew a few Hyuuga, they were a quiet sort. While I was sure I could maybe get some answers from Neiji, I doubted it would go very far. And I didn't want to use the poor boy. He needed attention, not me coming in for information. I'd rather not repeat another Maya situation
I had forgotten how sore this sort of training was exhausting. I pushed myself, an hour - and hour and a half. Soon enough I completed my last rep. I saw two shadows above me as I swam to the surface. When I breached, I saw both Gai and Kakashi staring at me as if I had grown a second head.
"What are you doing?" Kakashi asked. Gai looked on in interest, his hands on his hips.
"Oh - you know, Lovely. The usual." I said coyly as I pushed myself up onto the water, using my chakra to stand up. I sent him a wink - saw his eye crinkle at the corner.
"Tami-chan! Are you training again?"
"Mm. Swimming laps is a full-body workout. I'm carrying weights at the bottom. Helps increase my lung capacity, resistance, and otherwise." I replied.
Gai grunted, gently stroking his chin.
"Lee and I would surely like to join you! This would be very youthful!" He exclaimed.
I fought a grin and nodded. Sounded good to me. I glanced to my Darling who was quietly studying me.
"You'll have to adjust your meals." He said softly. I went to open my mouth to agree when he sent me a warm look and continued with, "I'll come by your work at lunch."
"Ah?" I paused, looking at him. What did that have to do with anything? Mind, he was always welcome. He just sent me his patented eye-smile. No answers from my Lovely.
"I have training with the Sand siblings in the morning. Then I'm training here - about an hour later. That's good with you, Gai?" I asked.
"Yosh! The best. Lee and I will come and train while we're training!"
I could see Kakashi just staring at his friend while I tried not to laugh. The two reminded me of a comedy sketch, the Double Act. Kakashi ever was the straight-laced one.
"Well then, as it was lovely to see you both - I've work. Hopefully, Ibiki won't have my head." I said, my eyes lighting up. If I could have given my Darling a kiss on the cheek I would have. However, duty called and my Lovely wouldn't have liked it if I unmasked him there. Best to wait.
I did wonder if he'd actually show up at lunchtime, or be late. Time would tell.
I did go into work, and start sorting through the stacks of intel that accrued not only from while I was out but also the ones that were old and outdated. Anything related to Otogakure I was especially keen on. Maybe if I could find where my Uncle was, I could relay that information to the Hokage? Maybe she'd be willing to go after Orochimaru. Maybe. And even gain back Sasuke.
As I sorted through the stacks, Ibiki strode in. His arms were crossed over his chest. He looked me up and down.
"Let me guess. Konoha saw that I was training with Suna-nin and the soon to be Kazekage and they think I'm plotting against the village." I said, glancing up.
He sent me a pointed look, "Respect, Walker. And no. They don't. Any reports I've seen have been positive."
I hummed softly. I sort of regretted my sass now.
"Forgive me. There's just been quite a bit of bad news as of late." I said, sitting back to look at him. I then remembered myself and stood, dusting myself off. "Right then. How can I help?"
"Tsunade-sama wanted to start investigating Otogakure," Ibiki replied. My eyes widened. What?
"She wants to know where he's at. If we can send a specialized team to get your Uncle, we will." He told me, "And Sasuke. But that's if we have the resources and the manpower. Your Uncle might have answers about our world too, trapped somewhere in his mind. If Orochimaru guesses - we're in trouble."
I- I couldn't believe it. They were willing to help get-.
'Oh, pull yourself together Walker! You've been weepy since you woke up!' I told myself.
"Yes. Yes, of course." I replied, my voice wavering.
"And those reports need to be solid. The plan was to wait to go after Sasuke when Naruto and Jiraiya returned. But if we can get them both now, it'll be better." He continued, and then he grinned maliciously, "Maybe you can even help if you reach Jounin in time."
My heart squeezed. Maybe. No - would Tsunade ever even allow me to leave and go right to Otogakure to help rescue my uncle? Unlikely, but the temptation was there. The maybe was so deliciously in my reach.
I could have both Sasuke and my Uncle back at home, safe and sound. It was too good to ignore.
"Don't tease me," I said hollowly.
"No teasing. We could even use you as a cover. Inoichi trained you to fight against any mental attacks. You'll be fine. I can vouch for you." He said. He paused and then looked down at me, "But you'll have to get strong enough."
If there was one thing Ibiki knew how to do it would incentivise a girl. He practically dangled a carrot out in front of me. And yet, I couldn't get mad at all.
"Who - who's over the mission?" I asked.
"Sarutobi Asuma. He was informed about it this morning. He has connections out of the village and may be able to find out more. But it's low priority right now."
I nodded, stunned. I never thought that they'd… Sure, Uncle could pose a safety risk, but they never seemed to particularly care about his or Maya's wellbeing. Or mine, for that matter.
Ibiki shocked me even further, patting me on the head before leaving. His scarred face flashed a smile before he left.
Just when I thought I understood the man, he went and did this. I watched him leave. It took me a long while to even be able to continue to work.
My training needed to step up. I wanted to get in on that mission. I needed it like I needed breath.
Uncle, we'll be coming soon.
It had been so prevalent on my mind, I didn't even realize it was a little past lunch-time when Kakashi strode in. He had two bentos in his hand. He had an apologetic look on his face.
"Sorry - there was a little kid." He said. Some days I wondered if he was being honest with me. This time? I knew it. He was being truthful. It was part of who he was, like the mask on his face. I sent him a grateful look.
"I might have forgotten lunch had it not been for you coming, Darling." I told him, getting up to greet him. I came in close and kissed his exposed cheekbone. He blushed a little bit. He was so cute.
"So what did you get me?" I asked, looking at the bentos he had.
"Ma, Tami-chan - you're so nosy." He whined and I laughed.
We went to the lunchroom and sat together. I quickly found out that the sweetie had cooked for me. This wasn't some take-out that he had gotten. I'd have to do something special for him. He had been an absolute dear since the whole thing happened.
I wanted to be cute and feed him a few bites (I was sure Icha Icha had a few scenes like that in the story. In fact, I'd bet money on it. Jiraiya seemed the type). When I went to try to, Kakashi blushed violently and shot a look to the only other person in the breakroom. Mozuku. The man was sitting on his own, reading something as he ate.
"He's not even paying any attention," I murmured. Kakashi still seemed hesitant so I dropped it. He was so red! There were few times I had ever seen him blush in that fashion!
"Maybe at home, mm?" I teased him, nudging his sandal under the table.
"Tami-chan!" He whined and I grinned at him. He needed a good razzing every once in a while. With his team gone, he needed the spice. And, he needed -. It was then Maya's warning came up in my mind. She told me to not be too intimate with him openly. I licked my bottom lip as I thought about how to broach the subject. Kakashi stilled instantly. He looked at me seriously.
"Yes, darling?" I asked.
"What are you thinking about?"
"Mm?"
"You always do that. Usually when you're thinking something over and not sure if you like it." He pointed out. I raised my eyebrows at him. Would you look at that? He was reading me now. Rather impressive, methinks. He went from thinking I flirted with everyone to noticing the smallest detail in regards to me. I'm rather proud.
"I… you mentioned that you didn't mind that we were openly dating - so long as we're in the village, correct?" I said, looking at him.
"Yes…?" He said hesitantly.
I sent him a small smile and shifted in my seat, "Maya - Maya warned that maybe we shouldn't be so.. So open about it. Wouldn't say why, but… But she's not the sort to be flippant about something like that."
Kakashi grunted. His face fell and I regretted even bringing it up.
"Then we'll do what Asuma and Kurenai are doing." He said.
Wait. He figured that out? I'll admit, they were being rather quiet about it all. Kurenai had always been tight lipped about it - but the two were near inseparable. It was obvious, but not so obvious.
We weren't able to eat together for much longer. We headed out, and I turned my head to see Mozuku. He wasn't just reading something, he was writing on a scrap of paper. He was writing in code. My mouth dropped open while Kakashi ushered me out.
We were going to talk about this later. There was no doubt.
End Chapter
AN: Here we are, another chapter. I wanted to get this out pretty soon. I'm hoping to be done with this story by the end of the year. Sparks hadn't taken too long at all, but I think that was a different set of circumstances lol Welcome back to anyone who moved over from Blaze. And hello to any of my new readers! I hope you're enjoying this. So far, I'm liking this a lot more. It feels right. I'm hoping that I can get Maya back to being that hopeful lady who has a crush on a certain Anbu agent. I hope at least. But I wanted to add in a detail that I skipped over Tami processing. It's hard coming to terms with living in a new place, even when you choose it. But she'll bounce back, don't worry!