Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ A Girl Named Yama ❯ Chapter 23 - Abandon ( Chapter 23 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Notes: Yo, I'm a little earlier in updating this time. This chapter was supposed to come out on Wednesday, September 24, 2008 but it turns out I have an exam that day, so I won't have time to update on that day. So! You guys are lucky this month and get an early update! I'm tired tonight, I just quickly tied up the loose ends I found in this chapter so there may be grammar/spelling errors, forgive me. I wanted to get this chapter out ASAP for some reason.

There's a really big twist this chapter— something you guys would've totally not expected so get ready. XD Read on!

Look forward to the next chapter (Chapter 24) on Wednesday, October 22, 2008.

FAQ of the day: If the sharingan is inherited through maternal genes how did Yama get her sharingan?

Lots of inquiries about this and YES it will be answered in either chapter 24 or 25, so I won't say anything. -_- Be patient!

Last Chapter:

After some complications and a sick jutsu, the group has finally set off into the waters. But with conflicts arising and more tension developing how will the trip proceed? After an attack from another ship the two mysterious mercenaries hired by Souzu reveal themselves to be Zabuza and Haku! What exactly is going on here?

Warnings:

May have a little foul language as well.

[.a.g.i.r.l.n.a.m.e.d.y.a.m.a.]

A Girl Named Yama

… A Naruto fan fiction

A Girl Named Yama Â© SilverDragon

Naruto Â© Kishimoto Masashi

Chapter 23 -

“Abandon”

…

“Y-You!” I choked, pointing accusingly at Haku. The male gave me an amused look. “Hello there, Kunoichi-san.” He suddenly moved and I almost hurled up my earlier meal as I was shoved out of the way and into the cabin wall. I groaned; that was painful as hell. There were two small clinks as I saw Haku twirl a few senbon needles out into the smoke and one resounding thud came back.

Wait, where was Kuro?

I scrabbled to my feet and gave the slowly clearing deck a once over. The black dog was no where to be seen. I clapped my hands twice. No answer.

Where was he?

Feeling myself beginning to panic, I dove headfirst into the smoky cloud, only to be yanked back harshly. “Don't be so rash!” Haku snapped. “Do you really not value your life all that much?” I glowered back at him. “Kuro's missing!” I growled back. Haku rolled his eyes and pointed towards the cabin door.

I stared blankly at him.

“He's fine,” Haku elaborated, “Zabuza-san shoved him in there when the dog leapt at him.”

“Why would Kuro leap at Zabuza if he had never attacked him before?” I asked suspiciously, backing away from Haku slowly. The boy gave me a slow sideways look.

“It must've been because Zabuza-san emitted waves of killing intent,” he replied flatly. “Did you train Kuro to detect such things?” He managed a triumphant smile when I winced. Okay, so maybe I had done that.

There was a sharp whistling sound and instinct told me to dodge, run, etc. And what I did was duck. Haku noticed and leapt up, disappearing into the smoky cloud. When nothing happened, I frowned and was just about to stand when I felt a strong wind whip through the deck area. I tumbled onto my side, wincing as I jarred my stomach. When I finally managed to gather my bearings, the deck smoke had been cleared to reveal Zabuza smirking, his sword hanging over his shoulder.

He had used his sword to blow away the smoke screen.

Soft thuds to my left and right told me that Genma and Izumo were safe and sound. My neck tingled and when I glanced back slightly, Itachi was standing there, his sharingan activated. His eyes were unfocused and staring past me.

Zabuza noticed us immediately when I faced the front once more. “So we meet again, leaf-nin.” He raised his eyes slightly, “Are we frightening enough that both of your must have your bloodline limit activated?”

Both?

But only Itachi—Oh. I had forgotten that my eyes were virtually in the permanent state of being red with my adorable little commas, despite my sharingan being off.

No one answered him.

Oh well, let him think that then. There was no point in telling him that my sharingan was `damaged.' Maybe then, the two missing-nins would be more cautious around us. They were mercenaries after all— ones that had previously tried to take my life.

Creak.

The second cabin door squeaked open slightly and a familiar eye peeked out from within. It was Kotetsu. Genma nodded at the questioning look we received and the door opened fully. And as it did, a black blur shot out. I yelped and just managed to reach out and latch onto Kuro's collar as he tried to dart past me.

The little bugger was probably trying to get to Zabuza. The first confrontation was lucky, you dumb dog. I'm not so sure about the second. Zabuza doesn't look all that forgiving.

The second Souzu took a cautious step out from the dark room, Genma rounded on him.

“What is the meaning of this?” I winced at the coldness in the captain's voice. “You hired two missing-nin without informing us? Have you ever thought of the trouble that would bring?”

Souzu frowned. “They're paid mercenaries,” The prince emphasized. “They will follow whoever pays more. Do you think I can't afford to out pay any other person?”

I stifled the urge to push him into the water.

“It's not that simple,” Izumo said quietly, “There may be hunter-nins after them. If they found us traveling with missing-nins…” He trailed off. When all three royal subjects tensed, it was obvious that the thought had never occurred to them.

Haku piped in, “That shouldn't be a problem now. Hunter-nins don't usually wander off the mainland unless ordered to.” He paused, “Besides, we made sure we weren't followed when we boarded the ship.”

Genma seemed to relax slightly but let out a heavy breath.

Zabuza laughed and swung his sword, causing the rest of my team to tense (myself included) and set it against the dent with a heavy clunk.

“Besides, who are you to criticize when you travel with one yourself?” There was a swish of movement and Itachi settled at the back of Zabuza, hand held over the ex-mist-nin's neck. The Uchiha's monotone voice could be heard across the nearly silent deck. “Do not lump me in the same group as you; we are miles apart.”

Zabuza's eyes flashed and Haku materialized behind Itachi, a needle pressed against the Uchiha's side. “You will not lay a finger on him.” At that moment, Kuro managed to slip through my hands and I tumbled back from the loss of his weight.

When I heard a snarl, I panicked. If Kuro managed to get himself tangled into the mess now, he could possibly get injured and—

I darted forwards and flash-stepped to Kuro's side, gripping his jaw just as he reached the stalemate group.

I was facing Zabuza. His eyes were wide and I could see his lips twist into a smirk through the half-mask he now wore. By half-mask I mean all that was covered was the bridge of his nose now.

Oh crap, I managed to think.

“That was no shunshin, leaf-nin,” he hissed, “What was that?” I tightened my grip as Kuro snapped, growling and tugged forwards again. This time, I jerked him back a couple of steps and managed enough to free one of my hands and gave the dog a firm whack across the nose. “Kuro!” I snapped, “That's enough! Down!”

Kuro yelped and stopped, eliciting a guilty feeling in my gut.

Well, it had to be done. I glared at the dog and pointed towards the cabin. After a few seconds, he obediently slunk to the open door, disappearing into the darkness.

I thought that he had gone to a corner to sulk or something but two seconds later a snout appeared at the doorframe and I rolled my eyes. I can see you, pup.

“So,” Zabuza's voice drew my attention once more. “Summoning nin-dogs like that copy-nin?” I glared at him tiredly.

“Kuro is not a summon.” I said blandly.

He sneered at me. “You were better off coming with me so I could've honed your skills.” Uh… no. I think I probably would've died under your tutelage. Twice or thrice times over, too.

Finally Seiran took a step out from behind Souzu and managed to give all of us a stern look. “How about we deal with them before dealing with this situation?” He eyed the three unconscious bodies littered on the deck. Oh. I had totally forgotten about them. My bad…

After a few seconds, Zabuza gave a slight nod and Haku stepped back, lowering his weapon. I saw Itachi lower his hand slowly as well and sidestepped from the duo and put approximately three meters distance between himself and them.

“All right then.” Souzu said finally, stepping forwards, “Shall we?”

[.a.g.i.r.l.n.a.m.e.d.y.a.m.a.]

“So you're saying that these two here were two random mercenaries you found while we were docked?” Kotetsu pointed his thumb in Zabuza and Haku's direction. Seiran nodded sheepishly and I saw Izumo roll his eyes discreetly.

“And you never though that maybe, must maybe they could've already been hired to kill you guys?” Genma demanded. Even Gunter looked chagrinned now, rubbing his left arm slowly. Kuro let out a sharp bark and butted his head against Souzu's leg. See? Even Kuro thinks you guys acted so rashly!

“Well then it's a good thing you guys pay well, right?” Zabuza drawled slowly.

We all stared at him.

What was that supposed to mean?

Haku managed a chuckle. “What Zabuza-san is saying is that we were originally hired to kill you.” Everyone in the room tensed. Well, except for Itachi because he wasn't in the room. He was lounging outside because he refused to be near Zabuza. “But then you guys came along and offered a higher price…”

Exchanging a look with Genma, I sighed heavily. “Well, you guys should be counting your blessings right now. At least we all aren't dead at the moment.”

Zabuza shrugged. “Well actually they should probably thank your presence as well.” I gave him a curious look. “We had originally planned to carry out our originally deal and kill them as soon as the ship had left the pier, but then we noticed that you were with them.” He sneered at me. “That changed a lot of things.”

I took a careful step away from him.

“I had thought also thought that maybe Haku hadn't killed you after all… and I was right. Ne, Haku?”

Haku had the audacity to look sheepish. “Sorry, Zabuza-san.” The ex-mist-nin merely shrugged.

“No complaints here. I had originally planned to take her anyway.”

What did he mean?

Zabuza cocked his head at me slightly. “So you don't remember then?”

I didn't answer.

There was a sudden groan from the corner of the room and immediately all of our attentions' were drawn towards the three tied up captors. One of them was beginning to wake. Genma shot a look at Seiran, who gently steered a yawning Souzu out the door. Kotetsu push me out the door in short bursts, and the last thing I saw before the door closed on me was Gunter grinning and cracking his knuckles.

Poor guys.

I clucked my tongue sympathetically and glanced sideways towards Haku, who had retreated from the room as well. Zabuza had stayed within. Haku managed to give me a wry grin. “I'm certain that you have questions, yes?” I nodded. “Follow me, only your ears are allowed to hear this.” Haku disappeared and I was left for a few confused seconds until I felt his presence near the back of the ship.

There was the quiet sound of a door opening and I turned in time to see Souzu disappeared into the other cabin (the one where the captives weren't kept in). I saw a black tail follow him and I knew Kuro had decided it was time for bed. I assumed he was going for a little shut-eye. It was already dark out, after all. Whatever, I'll just get Kuro later then.

Itachi was no where to be seen now and Kotetsu leaned against the ship's left railings, stretching his arms up into the air.

“I suppose I'm on watch-duty first then.” He muttered forlornly. I edged my right hand up slightly. “I'll take second watch; just get me when you need to rest.” Kotetsu gave me a gratified smile and shooed me off with one hand. I gave my hand a little flap and wandered down the left side of the boat towards the back.

I found Haku standing at the very back, staring out into the darkened sky.

He must've known I had come because he spoke when I stopped about a meter away from him. “I'm glad you survived.” Haku said quietly. I frowned at him.

“What do you mean… survived?”

At that point Haku finally turned to face me and managed to give me a small smile. “When I had thrown those needles, they weren't aimed for you. It was about a 6th in 8th chance that it would kill you.” I gulped, eyes widening. Those hadn't been good odds. “You must have a lot of luck.”

I must have a lot of damn luck after all. But like it always goes—luck always fades.

“Is that what Zabuza meant when he said—?” I trailed off at Haku's nod.

“Yes, by all means, I had thought you were dead too. Therefore it would only be appropriate that is what Zabuza-san thought as well.” Here, Haku grinned at me. “He was actually quite disappointed when he thought you were dead.”

I cocked my head in curiosity. What did that mean?

Haku continued, “He wasn't kidding when he said he wanted to take you under his wing.” I shuddered in response and glared weakly at the pale boy.

“Sorry kiddo but I don't think I would survive that little tryst.” I paused, tipping my head to see a sliver of the moon peeking out from the clouds. I think that was all the questions I had.

Turning to go, the question Haku posed next stopped me in my tracks.

“You should wear something to cover those eyes, Uchiha-san.”

I tensed, not turning back to face him.

“Whatever for?” I managed to choke out.

“Because I heard a very interesting story from an old man we came across on Taro Island.” His voice stopped for a brief pause. “… Of what happens to those who are not fully blooded in their family bloodlines.” He ended quietly.

What?

I whirled around, staring at Haku with wide eyes for the billionth time that day/night. When all he did was flash me a wry look and hold out a hand, I started at him blankly. He was holding a small container. I took it from him slowly. “What is it?” I asked quietly.

“Contacts.” He responded. “I use them for disguises sometimes. They are black ones; therefore they'll do quite nicely for you, yes?” Eyeing the box carefully, I glanced back up at Haku, opening my mouth but he cut me off.

“You want to know where I met this old man.” Haku stated in amusement, his dark eyes twinkling at me. I scowled at him and decided not to deem that with an answer. Because if he was thinking that he was going to get me to beg for an answer, that wasn't going to happen. When I turned to go, his hand shot out to catch my shoulder.

“I met him while I was on one of my patrols,” the teenager piped suddenly. I stopped, but didn't turn around. “It was right after we were hired by the bureaucrats to destroy the party that left the island for help.”

`Souzu's group,' I realized.

“He said some other things that were quite interesting and eye opening as well. Even Zabuza-san wanted to find a partially-blooded bloodline person to test some of the things we were told.”

Huh. Test?

Wait.

I shoved Haku's hand off my shoulder violently and promptly put at least ten feet between us.

Haku stared at me, startled and started to laugh. I glared half-heatedly at him. “What's so funny?” I demanded. I shoved the box of contacts into one of my side pant's pockets' and proceeded to eye the teenager carefully.

Finally Haku cleared his throat. “It's nothing harmful. Zabuza-san merely wishes to know if some of the things we found out were true.” He paused and gave me a sideways look that almost had me running away screaming. “Like if it's true that your bloodline limit will degenerate as time passes. Or if it's true that you will start to show ancestral traits if exposed to another version of the bloodline limit.”

I narrowed my eyes at Haku, glaring at him. Degenerate? That hasn't happened yet, if you didn't count that fact that my eyesight was damaged slightly from back when I found Deidara. Ancestral traits? I have no idea because I don't know the kind of ancestors I have. But…

I bit my lip carefully. I have been exposed to Itachi's sharingan. And Kakashi's sharingan. Did those dreams/illusions I had seen have something to do with the Uchiha ancestors?

That's when I realized that Haku still had more to say.

“Or if—”

I threw up my hands. “Stop!” I cried out. “I don't want to hear anymore.” I added. Haku frowned at me. Anymore and I think my head might explode. Besides, I'd rather hear it from the source itself, rather than another person's (Haku's) version.

This time I turned to leave and Haku didn't stop me.

“I would hold back on using your sharingan if I were you, Uchiha-san.”

I paused in my steps, but didn't bother to come up with an answer.

[.a.g.i.r.l.n.a.m.e.d.y.a.m.a.]

Letting out a sharp whistle, I listened carefully for Kuro's patterned breathing. A few seconds later, he whipped around the corner and bounded towards me, screeching to a stop in front of me. I encased his head in my hands, rubbing his nose affectionately.

“All right boy, should we take a break?”

A whine answered me.

“Fine, one more time and then a break, okay?” I translated slowly. Okay, so maybe I didn't translate. But after having a pet— a very intelligent pet for that matter— for a while, I'm sure most people would be able to use a little guesswork and decide what the animal wanted.

Kuro barked at me and I called out towards Itachi again. “One more time!”

My brother didn't answer, but I knew that he was already ready. When is Itachi never ready?

We were training Kuro's detection skills. And not the regular way either. I was trying to get Kuro to get used to detecting someone who had completely masked their presence. All Kuro had to do now was find Itachi.

On the ship somewhere.

Yeah, I know, not very challenging. But I never said that Itachi was going to be staying still now, did I?

“Go.” I gave Kuro a quick pat and watched as he gave the air a careful sniff before bounding off again. Usually I followed him but this time I just leaned against the bench and sat down. Let the dog have his fun. I remember one time Kuro managed to tackle Seiran instead of Itachi when the dog's nose got confused with the mixed scents. Itachi had done something that time and he still hadn't told me what yet. So it was going to remain a mystery until Itachi told me.

Kuro had stopped his little `growth phase' momentarily it seems but he was already huge enough as it was. He may have been as big as a regular large dog last week but he was now twice his previous size. When he sat down he was taller than me if I knelt beside him.

And Mr. Big-tall-and-furry was no longer easy to care for.

For one, giving him a little wash down was damn near impossible. The first time I tried to when Kuro was this size was not a pretty picture. I ended up taking the bath while he wheezed and laughed at me as I was covered in wet dog fur.

Leaning back, I closed my eyes and allowed the sun to pelt down on me. I had a feeling that once we reached land we would no longer be able to relax. According to the captain of the ship we were getting very close to our final destination— Taro Island.

Genma had already briefed all of us on our `updated' mission. By `updated' I mean that we had to include Zabuza and Haku, despite the protests from some people. It made sense, really. If we didn't include them and a serious enemy attacked us, it would only be our future loss. It would be a little difficult to work with them, seeing as they tried to kill me the last time we met but I think that as long as I keep out of their hair and vice versa, we'll get along just fine.

Sitting up, I turned when I started to hear loud shouting and clanking noises.

We had made it to the dock.

Stretching, I pushed myself off the ground and gave the deck a quick onceover. Where had Kuro gone? Don't tell me he's still hunting around for Itachi. As amusing as it would be if he still was, it wouldn't be quite so amusing if this was what happened in a battle.

Hearing a loud bark followed by a thump, I managed a wry grin. That was probably Kuro. Making my way across the deck I stared back at the path we had just taken. Kakashi's bird still hadn't made a reply yet. It's been nearly a week since then— a little over a week, actually. I had to admit it, I was getting worried. The last letter had said the second part of the Chuunin exams had just ended. The third part would start a month later.

And sound nin's had attacked already. So was the Hokage going to postpone the exams?

And how was Sasuke doing?

I chewed my lip slowly. He should have no reason to go with Orochimaru right? Should being the keyword here. I had no idea what Sasuke thought of Itachi right now. A seven year long grudge wouldn't be something that could easily be brushed off.

But what if Orochimaru took him by force?

I tightened my grip on the wooden railing and my eyes weren't really focused on the view. All I could think of was all the possible scenarios that could occur. My mother had once told me that fate couldn't be deterred. Nothing could stop something from happening because it was fate. It was all a matter of time.

A loud caw startled me and I swear I jumped a foot into the air.

Thud.

Two sharp talons gripped the wooden part where my hands had just been resting on.

Taka-chin.

Two yellow eyes glared beadily at me and I reached out slowly. When the hawk didn't snap at me, I gave it a quick stroke on the head. “Finally came back, huh?” I said quietly. I eyed the pouch on his leg. Good news? Bad news?

The bird let out another caw, holding out its leg and shaking it profusely at me.

“Yeah, yeah, I got it.” I muttered, reaching out and carefully unclipping the flap and sliding the small scroll out.

I glanced curiously at the seal, recognizing it as the same one was last time before breaking it. I let it unroll and began to read.

Yama,

Depending on how far you are now this letter has probably reached you fairly late. I wrote back as soon as I could. The third section of the exam had started earlier than expected.

I felt myself stiffen. What did Kakashi mean by earlier? He said there was supposed to be a month of rest. It's only been two weeks!

A lot has happened and unfortunately I will have to make this short. Nothing in this letter will be good news, I'm afraid. I'll keep this simple and try not to use any difficult kanji (I know there are many you do not know how to read yet)—

I scowled at that. I'm learning okay? I'm not perfect nor a fast learner but I'm working on it!

—Stay out on Konoha. Do not come back.

I felt my blood run cold.

What?

I must've have misread that line. But when I read it again, it was still the same words. And I know that I wasn't reading it wrong because I know those words.

Stay out of Konoha. Do not come back. Konoha was attacked in the earlier part of the third section of the exams by the Sound, with the hidden Sand backing them up. The Third is dead.

The Third is dead.

I stared blankly at the scroll. I could feel my hands starting to shake.

Ship-life was still going on around me; a part of me knew that the crew was swarming around, working to dock the ship properly but it felt like it was another part of the universe to me. I couldn't really… feel anything.

The Third is dead. The Hokage. Sarutobi. He's dead.

“Fuck…” I whispering slowly, rubbing the side of my face and letting out a puff of air. Gone. He's dead. That meant that the only person that knew about me was Kakashi. And I knew that Kakashi would have a very damn good reason to tell me to stay out of Konoha.

With the third Hokage gone it meant that there was no one left to protect me from the council.

Damn.

The shit hit the fan pretty quickly, huh?

It's actually all over. I didn't write to you earlier because I would rather not have you worried about something that might not even happen.

I knew what he was talking about. If he would've written earlier before all the stuff had settled down then I would've been worried about a lot of things. And I probably would've tried to go home too. But now it wasn't so easy to get back to Konoha. And Kakashi knew that. For one I was halfway across the freaking ocean, and for another it would probably be difficult for me once I returned. If I had returned earlier and the Third had died while I was still in the village I would have a hard time leaving as well.

But did that mean that Orochimaru had lost? Won?

The enemy retreated and technically, I guess you could say that we won.

I could feel my knuckles going white now and I was surprised the scroll wasn't ripping, with me gripping the damn thing so tightly.

Nothing's normal right now, Yama. I mean it, don't come back. It turns out that mission you are on isn't real either— a few things just didn't add up on the mission details and request. Whoever requested that mission you are on… isn't reliable. So it is likely you'll receive a letter from the council to head back to Konoha A.S.A.P.

…

Wasn't real?

I need you to stay away from Konoha until things settle down.

It wasn't supposed to be like this. I was supposed get back to Konoha after this mission to hear that everything was fine, because Orochimaru shouldn't have succeeded— Sasuke didn't have a reason to go anywhere. And I figured Orochimaru wouldn't try too much if he knew that Akatsuki was lingering around Konoha. I figured wrong.

The Hokage… in a way I sort of knew he was going to die. But I had thought that maybe… maybe by me being here it would've changed something. At least changed it so the one person that understood on a somewhat decent level of where I was from would still be alive.

Sasuke's missing, Yama.

That's when the tears started falling. I don't think I meant to start crying up a pond, lake, whatever; but it's what I did. I kind of fell against the railing, the scroll falling from my hands and landing on the deck. I was still crying, but it was silent. The only sound was the splatters as the tears hit the deck.

I don't know what I was crying for. I think it was for the now deceased Hokage. Maybe it was for the dozens of people that were probably now dead because of the Sound and Sand. Maybe it was the fact that I had the ability to change something— maybe for the better and I had gone out of the village rather than staying to do something about it. Maybe it was the fact that the only home I had found in this world I could no longer return to.

And maybe it was because Sasuke was now missing and I could only imagine how he felt right now with chaos everywhere and I wasn't there to be with him. What if Orochimaru had already gotten to him? What if Sasuke was taken by force?

And I think a part of it was because I couldn't be by Kakashi's side at the moment. Even if Kakashi hadn't mentioned it, I knew there were many that died. Who? The Third was probably only one of many. And I knew this would hit Kakashi pretty hard. He may have tried to put up a lazy and carefree front all the time but he was only a man underneath.

I had seen him standing in front of the memorial several times early in the mornings.

He thought I didn't know. And I don't think he planned on telling me anymore except for who had died and who he visited. Still visited, in fact. Kakashi liked to hide things. He hid many things— not only his face.

And I wanted to be with him right now. I wanted him to know that he wasn't so alone now. And maybe I needed a little reassurance that I wasn't alone as well. But the fact that I couldn't return was hitting me pretty hard. I mean, Konoha's been the only home for the past year I've lived here.

Pressing my hands into my eyes harder, I thought I sensed people surrounding me, a few shouting while others tried to figure out what was wrong. The one familiar presence I felt was Kuro's… and Itachi's. A wet nose pushed its way through my hands.

I buried my face into Kuro's fur and continued to cry.

[.a.g.i.r.l.n.a.m.e.d.y.a.m.a.]

Hours later I lay curled up in bed on my side, eyes staring blankly out the window. My eyes were probably all red and swollen but I didn't really care at the moment. I think Itachi was talking to Genma outside of the room. Kotetsu and Izumo were sitting quietly in the corner of the room and once in a while I could feel their gazes on me. I wondered briefly if they knew what was going on.

I don't know if they had seen the letter or not. I knew Itachi had picked it up and put it into his sleeve earlier.

What made it worse were the last few lines I had seen on the letter before I had started to flood the deck with my tears.

And since we'll probably not see each other again… I love you. Don't ask me why, the explanation would take too long. Just know that I do. Goodbye, Yama.

Kakashi.

He said we weren't going to be seeing each other again. He was so positive that I wasn't going to return. Kakashi was so ready to push me away and out of his life. And what's even stupider is that it's making me realize that I didn't want to be away from him. It was a little difficult being away from him, since he had been such a constant in my life. And right now he was the only one who knew that technically I wasn't supposed to be in Konoha. That I wasn't really from this place.

I tightened my grip on the pillow I was clutching.

Nothing like absence making the heart grow fonder.

I felt Kuro shift behind me and press closer into my back and I only lifted one hand to stroke him slowly. I was surprised he even fit on the bed, since he was getting so big now.

We were in a hotel. And if I wasn't mistaken, we were preparing for the big `talk.' The talk with Souzu and his group about the fake mission. About an hour ago a messenger bird had arrived— word from the council and Genma's face hadn't been very happen when he finished reading it. He had glanced at me once and taken Itachi out the room. They haven't been back since.

The door creaked open and I rolled my head slowly to see who it was.

Genma. And Itachi.

Followed by Souzu, Seiran and Gunter. And even Zabuza and Haku.

Genma's face was pale and tense.

Not a good sign. I saw Kotetsu and Izumo stand up. Feeling a little out of place, I swung my legs over the side of the bed with difficulty and finally sat up. I just stared dazedly at the group, and tried to concentrate on what they were starting to talk about.

“All right then.” Genma started slowly. “To clear things up… there was never such thing as the Momiji no kyÅ«den. It doesn't exist.”

I fought the urge to beat the crap out of Souzu. Or Seiran… maybe even Gunter too. If not for them, I could've still been in Konoha and maybe I could've done something. Instead I was out of the way… and useless. But I couldn't really blame them for that. I could've chosen to refuse the mission— I'd had a choice. And I had made my choice.

“The whole thing was set up by the Hokage.” Genma continued. “He hired mercenaries and faked a mission request for help from an unknown country and place. It was all a ploy— the attack, the explosions, everything.” At that Genma eyed Souzu. “You must've had a lot of connections.” Souzu grinned back.

“Something like that.”

Genma paused and glanced briefly at me, “The Third's request was to… keep you out of Konoha for a while… Yama.”

I kind of just started at Genma blankly as the rest of the room stared back at me.

I think I expected that. The big hint being that fact that I had screwed up in that one meeting when I had voiced my opinion about the Chuunin exams. I think the Hokage knew that something big was going to happen. And he wanted me out of harm's way. Away from the council members.

Kotetsu said quietly. “Is it okay to assume that you two were paid to play along as well?” He nodded at Haku and Zabuza.

Zabuza snorted. “Of course. A waste of my time, really. But the pay was good.” He leered at me. “So what about you is so important then, little kunoichi?”

I ignored him and turned to Genma. “So what happens now then?” I asked quietly. Genma studied me silently for a few seconds. He then sighed and turned away.

“We're boarding the next ship to return to Konoha. Their mission is over and the council wishes for us to return now. There is no need for us to remain out here if there was no real mission in the first place.” I managed to nod at Genma's answer and I turned towards Kuro again, who blinked at me with sleepy eyes. So Genma didn't know then. About the contents of Kakashi's letter, that is.

Taka-chin had long flown off. Kakashi had not wanted me to reply to his letter.

Genma sighed and turned to the mercenaries. “Then it looks like our paths split from here on out then.” He stated slowly. “And as much as this mission has displeased me, I cannot blame you for you doing your job.”

Seiran gave Genma a soft smile. “We did not mean to cause complications, Genma.”

Souzu gave a soft hum in response and grinned in general. “Only following orders, Genma-san.” Genma rolled his eyes and didn't reply.

Izumo yawned loudly and gave Genma a quick salute. “Then Kotetsu and I'll go out to check on the process of the ship, all right?” Genma nodded and the two disappeared. I blinked. It looked like they wanted to home as soon as possible. My vision dimmed slightly. It was likely they knew what had happened in Konoha as well by now. If the letter didn't tell them I'm sure Itachi would've already. He had to say something about why I was bawling my eyes out because of a letter.

I doubt Itachi would've told them about Kakashi telling me to stay out of Konoha. Not returning to the country for no good reason only had one outcome, really.

Missing-nin.

And yes, I will consider not returning to the country because I was no longer safe there a very good reason. I don't think the council members will find that a very good reason though. If anything, they would gladly have me become a missing-nin if it would get me out of their hair.

I dried a lone tear and turned to stare out of the window again, not listening to the words Genma and Gunter were exchanging.

`I didn't even get to say goodbye.' I thought drearily, `Not to the Third, not to Kakashi. Not to Naruto, Sakura or even Sasuke. And I've probably missed the Third's funeral by now.'

Chewing on the side of my lip, I continued to stroke Kuro's head. Was Sasuke all right? Were Naruto and Sakura unharmed? And how about Iruka? Did he manage to get away okay? How about the village? How much was damaged? And Kakashi? Was he unharmed? He hadn't mentioned anything about injuries in the letter, but that was so like Kakashi. He would not have revealed something like that.

Someone shook my shoulder and I blinked. It was Genma.

“The ship's ready to leave soon. We should head down to the docks now, Yama-san.” Genma said gently. He pulled me to my feet. “Come on.”

Kuro sat up and stretched, yawning and leaping off the bed. I stared at him. That's when I noticed that we now alone in the room. Everyone else was gone.

The team captain let out a sigh. “I won't ask you what was in the letter but know that we are here if you need us, yes?” I winced. He was really concerned. I didn't mean to worry anybody.

I gave him a tiny smile. “It's fine, really. Let's get going.”

Genma hesitated but nodded, heading out the door first. When I didn't move, Kuro bumped my back with his nose and I rolled my eyes back at him.

Breakdown time was over; there was an even bigger issue here now. If I wasn't supposed to return to Konoha, how was I going to get away from Genma and them?

[.a.g.i.r.l.n.a.m.e.d.y.a.m.a.]

I decided it would be better to leave the group now, rather than wait until we got back to the mainland. At least if I left them here I would have a better chance of getting away and making sure they wouldn't be able to catch me that easily. There were three of them (since Souzu-tachi apparently weren't going back to the mainland quite yet) right now. Souzu and them had said their goodbyes and told us they had more business on the island before they could leave. Haku and Zabuza had disappeared as well, to god knows where.

Besides, if I waited until we got back to the mainland, I was pretty sure there would be another squad waiting to greet us.

That would only make it harder for me to get away.

I've also come to the conclusion that Kuro is going back to Konoha.

Without me.

It was a hard decision to make but ultimately I think its best that Kuro goes back. It doesn't seem fair for him to suffer for something I have to take the fall for.

I've been having second doubts myself. All I keep thinking, while I stare at the ship being loaded is that all I have to do with step onto the ship and go back with them. No effort on my part, really. It was so easy. I could go home, see Kakashi, find out where the fucking hell Sasuke is hiding and rough it out. There would be no worries about Hunter-nin's, Anbu squads and how I would be spending my next day.

But I find the council members very scary. It was one of the things that were keeping me from getting on that boat. But I think my need and want to go back home was equalizing with that con. It's been nearly four weeks since I've last set foot in Konoha. Practically a month. It's been a while. And I miss people, I really do. I guess things just aren't the same without Naruto's smart ass comments, Sakura's concern, Sasuke's brooding and Kakashi's presence. And we can't forget about Iruka too.

I stared longingly as Kotetsu and Izumo bickered about something on the deck of the ship. I took a wavering step forwards but a hand encircled my wrist, pulling me back slightly.

It was Itachi.

I wasn't really surprised. He had read the letter of course. And of course, he was probably going to be with me.

“You should go back with them,” I commented, not really meaning it. Itachi gave me a look of disdain. Well, I wanted him to stay with me, because I was a selfish idiot. Sue me, but I didn't really want to be alone. The life of a missing-nin wasn't exactly going be very easy.

“You have a chance to become a Leaf-nin again,” I said lamely. “All you need to do is go back with them and be a good little boy.”

Itachi didn't move and I knew he had made his choice. I felt my heart sag a little. A little for the fact that I wasn't going to be going back, and a little because I had caused another to give up on something they had not easily earned back. I knew that the council had been willing to give Itachi another chance, giving the right amount of time had passed. But with Itachi not returning to the village… and becoming a missing-nin for the second time, he was throwing away that chance.

And… Kuro.

I stared at the black dog. He was staring back at me, as if he knew that I wasn't going to be going on that ship.

Cupping his head in my hands, I jerked my head towards the ship. “You're going on that thing, all right?” I whispered. I could already feel tears filling my eyes for the second time that day. Kuro let out a long, drawn out whine. “Go back… and…” I brushed away the tear that slid down quickly and blinked rapidly for a few seconds. “Stay with Kakashi, all right? Make sure… he's okay.” Kuro growled at me and nipped my fingers harshly. He sat down with a huff and pointedly turned his head away. My gaze softened slightly.

“You know I'm not going back, Kuro.” I said quietly. “Tell Tsume-san I'm sorry, all right? She didn't get a chance to teach me anything, really. Maybe you'll become a great companion for someone else one day but I don't think that person will be me.” I felt my chest grow tight. There were so many things I was leaving open back in Konoha. So many loose ends that I was just… leaving.

When the dog snarled and snapped at me angrily, I turned desperately to Itachi for help. Anymore and I think I was going to start crying again. Goodbyes weren't easy to give out. They were harder to give out than chores. “Kuro…” I muttered sadly. “There's no time… Please? For me?” I stood up straight. “Find Sasuke too, all right? I can't do that right now.” I gave Kuro a strained smile.

He stood up and started to bark loudly at me.

Genma chose that moment to call out towards me from the ship. “Yama! Come on, we're leaving right away!”

“All right!” I called back.

I gave Kuro a pleading look. I needed a distraction. Please just listen this time and go on the ship, Kuro. He stopped barking and stared at me quietly.

Then after a few seconds, he padded closer and leaned up slightly to give my nose a lick.

And then he was bounding up towards the ship. I felt tears spring into my eyes again. The sight of him leaving me wasn't an easy thing to see. And I had only had Kuro for over a month. I think I'm glad I didn't have to say goodbye to Kakashi in person. I don't think I could've made it through that.

I heard a loud cry as Kuro knocked over a crate of boxes and tackled Genma to the ground.

“Kuro!” I heard Genma's voice call out angrily. Kuro's playful bark answered. With everyone's attention on the commotion, I brought my hands together wearily.

I immediately made a water clone and flash-stepped into the thicket of trees by the shoreline. Itachi materialized beside me and I realized he had followed suit as well.

The water version of me made her way up the ramp, followed by Itachi's clone. The clones should give us a little bit of time before they dispersed.

“That could be me.” I whispered, clenching my hands into fists. “I could be going on that ship… ready to go home right about now.” I added. I cinched my eyes closed and roughly palmed the tears away quickly.

Itachi was already walking away. I turned to follow him, hearing the ship's horn blow. “No regrets.” I said aloud. I knew I didn't mean it. I was already regretting it. I could only hope that one day this decision would be worth it.

`See ya, Konoha,' I thought tiredly. `Maybe one day we'll meet again, when things have settled down a bit.' I traced Itachi's steps, fighting the urge to run back screaming and saying that I was still here, that I wasn't on the ship yet.

It had barely been five minutes when Itachi stopped and I almost ran into him. I had been too busy staring at the floor and trying not to think of anything, really.

“Took you two long enough, I've been waiting.” I stepped to the side to see what had stopped Itachi in his tracks. I could feel Itachi's aura waver slightly. I frowned. Souzu? I glanced around curiously but Seiran and Gunter were nowhere in sight. Where were they?

Souzu grinned at me, as if expecting my confusion.

“Don't worry, they're here too.” He said blandly. With a quick snap of his fingers, my eyes went wide when Gunter and Seiran appeared out of nowhere. But instead of being… people, something was off about them. Neither of them was moving. They were just standing there… it didn't even look like they were breathing.

“What—?” I started.

Itachi frowned and I felt a slightly surge of chakra as his sharingan snapped on.

“An illusion,” he commented pointedly. Souzu shrugged. “Yeah.” Seiran and Gunter's image wavered and disappeared.

“Why was I not able to see it before?”

The black haired man smirked. “There are many ways to disguise illusions, Uchiha-san, even from the great sharingan itself.” When we both stared at him, Souzu finally sighed. “I used sound to disguise it. A little like how bats use echolocation to travel. The sharingan is eye-based and even though it deals with the others senses as well; its primary sense is sight. Therefore hearing is not its strongest point and I was able to play a little with that.”

Itachi was tense now.

“Who are you, really?” I demanded finally. I think I've had enough with all these mistakes and unknowns. “Is your name even Yagami Souzu?”

“I thought that question would come up. I might as well answer it too.” The fake-Souzu answered. “I guess it's time you found out too.” His left hand came up and Itachi and I both stiffened but all fake-Souzu did was form one seal.

“Kai.” (Release)

I watched in amazement as Souzu's form seemed to melt away, his black hair becoming blonde, his brown eyes melting into a blue. His face features changed and sharpened and in the end we were left staring at a tousled blonde haired, blue eyed man.

Blank stare.

What was once a bright smile on the unknown man's face changed into a frown. “What? Surely you must know me!” He leapt to his feet and jumped down from the tree he was on. He jabbed his thumb at his own face. “This face should be well known! They had hundreds of thousands of fan-groups just for me!”

Uh…

When the blonde took another step closer, Itachi pushed me behind him. “Do not come any closer.”

“Come on…” The man rolled his eyes. “Surely you don't think I would hurt someone I called a daughter?”

I glared at him now.

What?

“You are not her father.” Itachi said stonily.

“Well duh. Maybe not biologically… ne, Ya-ya?”

I froze.

Only one person had ever called me that. I stepped out slowly from behind Itachi, squinting at the blonde.

“Oh? Starting to recognize something?”

His smirk made me glared at him. “No, it appears I was mistaken.” I replied stiffly. I took a few steps back. Maybe it was just a coincidence. “Come on Itachi, we should get moving.” My brother gave the blonde a sideways look and stepped back as well. Just as we were about to leave, the mysterious man threw out his hands.

“Wait!”

Even though my mind told me to leave him and ditch, something else told me to hear him out.

“Maybe you'll recognize this face more,” The blonde formed a few quick hand seals and a mask seemed to paint his face over. This time the face that was revealed made me reel back in shock. It was a face I had not seen in nearly a decade.

I scowled at him.

It was also a face that was supposed to be dead.

Whipping out a kunai, I glowered at the imposter. “You have a lot of fucking guts to take on that face, mister.” I snapped. “I don't know how you came across that face but once I'm through with you you're going to be—”

“Ya-ya, wait!”

I froze the nickname again. “I really am him! I'm Umari Keito. Or at least… that's the name I took on when I was your father, anyway.”

“Liar.” I said bluntly. “You have three seconds to explain yourself.” I was on a very short fuse today. I didn't need to deal with any more crap than I already had dealt with already.

“Temper, temper, Ya-ya.”

“Stop calling me that.” I growled.

My long-dead father's face grinned and he raised his hands in surrender. “All right! It's true, I am-was your father— not biologically of course, but I'm sure you already know that—”

“Impossible.” I said slowly. “My father is dead. Long dead. And seeing as he can't be here because he's—”

“—from another world?” The man ended. I felt Itachi stiffen slightly behind me. Shit.

The kunai I held clattered to the ground.

A smile that I had long ago thought I would never see again flitted across my father's face. “Ready to believe the impossible, Ya-ya?”

This was fucking unreal. Surreal might be a better word for it actually. My mouth hung open and I just stared blankly at him. If I was suspicious before, I sure as hell wasn't anymore. I hadn't told anyone that I was from another world. No one knew but me.

Impossible.

“Prove it.” I said bluntly. My father's lookalike gave me an incredulous look.

“How about telling you that I know you have two distinctive birthmarks— one being located on the backside of—”

“All right!” I interrupted hurriedly. “I believe you.” No one else could've known about that birthmark. No one except my mother and father from the other world, that is. And seeing as no one has seen me naked in this world before, I think it's safe to say that this guy was telling the truth. And that would mean that yes, he was indeed, my father from the other world.

But how did he end up in this world?

I found myself studying my father and thinking that he hadn't aged at all. But wait— this was just an illusion right? As if he had read my mind, the genjutsu faded to reveal his previous form— the blonde.

“How—?” I started.

The man stiffened and Itachi yanked me to the side. I slammed into a tree with a cough as Itachi proceeded to drag me into said tree's branches. I glanced down in time to see a string latch onto nothing— where I had been standing moment's before— and boomerang back into some nearby bushes.

Seconds later, Genma appeared. Kotetsu and Izumo appeared on either side of Itachi and I, surrounding us completely.

I eyed them carefully.

Genma was frowning at me, chewing his senbon tightly.

“I think you have some explaining to do, Yama.”

His voice sounded tired.

Crap on a stick. I thought the clones would buy us a little more time. I glared at the blonde man, who was now beside us, staring at the leaf-nins thoughtfully. It's your entire fault, old man. You couldn't have looked for us and stopped us later when we were far away from here, could you?

“Yama.” Genma's voice drew my attention again.

I gulped as I met Genma's electric brown eyes.

“What, exactly, are you intentions?”

Like I said before; crap on a stick.

To be continued…

[.a.g.i.r.l.n.a.m.e.d.y.a.m.a.]

XoXSilverDragonXoX

Completed September 21, 2008