“Why are you mad at me?” Haru practically whined. The rest of us sat around in a half circle, eating some onigiri as we watched Haru try to make Karin stop being pissed.

She glowered at him before shooting me a look and darted her gaze back to him. “If you don’t know then that’s a problem on its own. God why are you even here? Go back.” She hissed.

Haru slumped looking like a wounded puppy. “Man, he looks miserable.” Suigetsu commented as we watched.

Well, all but Sasuke who was doing a good job pretending they weren’t even there. “Well he is.” Hawaki piped in. 

“Ugh you’re so annoying. Go back!” Karin repeated, making Haru cry comical crocodile tears. “Awe please don’t say that! Karin!” She turned her back in a huff, crossing her arms over her chest.

Hawaki and Suigetsu winced at the pathetic scene. “Crazy Girl, do something. Put him out of his misery.” Hawkai turned to me, drawing Suigetsu and Juzo’s curious gaze.

I frowned in distaste, looking at the red haired girl. But Haru is my friend. So I sighed. “Haru, she’s gonna be bitchy so long as we’re here. Sit down and eat.” Haru glanced over, still looking pathetic as it is. “But-”

“Now.” I said firmly. He hung his head and walked over, dragging his feet before taking a seat next to me. Karin sneered at me. “Who are you to order him around?” She demanded, just wanting to pick a fight over any and everything.

“A less bitchy version of you.” I simply said, making Suigetsu slap his hand to his mouth to stop his laughter.

She’s mad I ordered him around when she just spat at him to go back. The hypocrisy makes me laugh. I ignored her glare and finished my riceball.

She doesn't scare me. I’ve fought her a couple times under Orochimaru’s supervision. He was very intent on having us work together but we could never do it with how much we argue. Uzamaki’s or not, we just flat out hate each other.

Her glare cut from me to Suigetsu who let one of his laughs out. Haru glumly began to eat some while I eyed the white haired boy.

Or more precisely, the sword on his back.

He noticed and smiled, jabbing his thumb at the handle. “Like it?” He asked. Images of the battle on the bridge flashed through my mind. “Not a lot of fond memories with it.” I admitted, hand going to my abdomen as I remembered when it tore at me when I was just twelve.

His eyes widened just a bit before a smile stretched further. “Oh, you were on his squad too. That’s how you know it. I remember you now. You often visited the door to my room.”

That’s right. He was that mysterious scent at the base that kept drawing my attention.

“Last that I saw it was at his grave. I’m not too happy it’s not there.” I turned to Sasuke with a glare and the little bastard averted my gaze making me click my tongue in annoyance. This just amused Suigetsu while simultaneously pissing off Karin. “Well we didn’t find it at his grave.”

At this I stilled. Oh it wasn’t huh? I thought I warned those locals.

As much of a bastard Zabuza was to me, I couldn’t help but feel pity for him and Haku. Just as I couldn’t help but blame the Mist village. Not only the Mist. Most Shinobi villages and their lands.

All because what happened at the Bridge was a real eye opener. Haku was a child. Zabuza was a child when his mind warped. Sasuke was a child when he almost died. 

I was a child. 

We were all children put through the system. It was always normal for me growing up but that day it was a real eye opener for me.

So I made it very clear that their graves were not to be disturbed. And I threatened old man Tazuna enough. Seems I need to make a visit and have a little chat about this.

“It should be returned to his grave.” Suigetsu frowned but Sasuke was the one to speak. “No. That’s his now. It’d only collect rust and that’s not what he would have wanted.”

I’d believe you if you put any emotion in your words. But like the short time we’ve reunited there wasn’t any sign of it.

It’s worrisome. 

“What about that sword I delivered to you? Isn’t that what you wanted?” I asked. Suigetsu grinned like the cheshire cat, patting his pouch.

“Oh yeah. Thanks for that. I absolutely needed the Nuibari. Y’see, I’m a big fan of the Seven Swordsmen of the Mist. They’re all so cool. That’s why I’m collecting their swords. By the way, how did you get this one?” He asked curiously.

The memory of the ninja who had it. I never got their name, in fact, they didn't seem fit to use it. I heard the one who was using it previously had died so it must not have gotten a proper wielder before I came into the picture.

“It didn’t belong to anyone yet. I just took it before they could find someone.” The person who had it currently used it strangely.

I can tell with the type of blade it is, it is very dangerous, but only if it’s used by someone who knows how to work with it.

If you don’t then it’s like fighting a child.  He nodded as if he understood, but I’m not quite sure what to make of that one. 

And then there’s her Royal Bitchiness. 

Yeah, I hate her guts. 

“Your last letter lead to a dead end. Did you come with new results?” Sasuke asked, changing the subject.

Of course he would too. I shrugged, leaning back. “All I do is gather data. Only helps if you move fast enough to use it.” I stated, though I was lying through my teeth.

His eye twitched, not liking my insinuation. And neither did Karin. “If we move slow at all it’s because of Suigetsu, not Sasuke!” She shouted at me.

Hawaki rolled his eyes, not at all happy with her constant yammering. At least I’m not the only one. “We might have gone slower if he’s really moving that quickly. It’s not like you’d purposely prolong this in hopes of changing an outcome. Right, Miyuna?”

Now my eye twitched as I met his hard stare with a matching one. 

It’s true. But I don’t like how he says it. Like he can intimidate me. You’ve never tried to intimidate me before. And the fact that you’re trying to do so now pisses me off.

Hawaki bristled at the confrontation happening, eyes darting between us as Haru watched me wearily, careful to monitor my emotions. If it’d activate Blood Release here and now. I leaned forward, not letting his little intimidation even put a scratch on me.

I’m Miyuna Uzumaki. No one talks to me like that. 

Boyfriend be damned.

“It seems giving up everything and running all these meticulous missions isn’t enough to please you, is it Uchiha?” I shot back with just as much malice in my voice as was in his. The group tensed as they watched our exchange.

“All I’m saying is that my orders were fairly simple and you’re not giving me results.”

Haru and Hawaki sucked in a harsh breath as my eyes widened incredulously before they narrowed. Before he could blink, I snatched him by his shirt and pulled him to me so we were face to face.

“In case you’ve forgotten; I don’t take orders Sasuke. I’m doing this because you asked. This is a favor. You are in no way my superior and acting like damn Orochimaru or that bastard Kabuto is a quick way to get a beating.” I warned. 

From the corner of my vision I could see that Suigetsu went for his sword but Hawaki was already prepared to stop him.

I just glared into dark eyes that always brought me comfort but now were staring at me patronizingly. I don’t care how much I love you, you’re not going to speak to or treat me like this. 

I’m not a pawn for you to use.

He finally sighed, raising his hands in surrender. “I’m sorry. I’m just a little frustrated turning up empty handed.” My anger dissolved to just irritation and

I let go of his shirt, allowing him to sit back properly in his seat. The group seemed to relax a bit but Karin glowered at me. “How dare you-!”

“That’s enough Karin.” Sasuke warned She seemed baffled by his interference but ultimately did as he said. Sasuke’s gaze returned to me, no longer as hostile or cold as before but there was some distance between them.

What is going on with you? This isn’t like you. At least, it never was with me. Isn’t that right? 

Hurt by his actions but unwilling to show him, or anyone that, I remained strong; face hard and unreadable. Have I ever needed to put on a mask for you?

I’ve lied to you. But not since regaining my memories have I ever needed to hide any emotion from you. What the hell is happening, Sasuke?

When did it become like this? Things were bad, but not between us. Isn’t that right? “Tomorrow we move, there’s something I need to check out. Haru, Hawaki, you two take the first watch.” Sasuke ordered, going over to a tree and nestling against it, deeming it his sleeping place.

The boys glanced at each other before looking to me for confirmation, only moving on my orders.

And this just seemed to anger Sasuke. I didn't say anything, just gave a brief nod and headed over to Sasuke’s tree, but instead of settling next to him like I’d normally do, I jumped up into the branches above. 

Suddenly my excitement to be reunited with Sasuke is gone and I long for Kaname’s house, wanting familiar comfort.

Something that used to be by his side.

~

The next morning was quiet, save for Suigetsu grumbling about walking. Sasuke and I took the lead, side by side. Followed by Karin and Jugo, then Haru and Hawaki, with Suigetsu bringing up the rear, dragging his feet.

“I’m telling you this isn’t the right way.” I muttered finally, making the vein in Sasuke’s cheek throb. “We’re going the right way, trust me.”

I snorted loudly, not looking at him. “Like when we were headed to the Land of Tea?” I asked. He rolled his eyes, turning to me briefly. “The road was overgrown, it’s an honest mistake.” He argued, the same argument he has for the past four years. “Uh-huh.” I spoke doubtfully, irritating him further.

Why was I irritating him? It wasn't helping our situation but he wouldn’t acknowledge me any other way and I’m pissed. 

We’ve been apart so long and he has his head so far up his ass he can speak out his mouth and see the shit he’s spewing.

“I seem to remember someone getting turned around in the Land of Wind.” He said, referring to that one mission Orochimaru sent us on.

“You would bring that up. We were in the middle of a freaking sandstorm, of course I got turned around. Sue me.” I growled. He huffed at my claim, feuling my anger.

I’m reminded of back when I was at the village, before my memories of before came back.

How everyone and everything set me on edge. It’s not a pleasant feeling as natural as it comes. And the fact that he was making me feel that way made it far worse.

Sasuke made a noise of annoyance and it ticked me off more. “You’ve got a serious attitude issue, dontcha?” I muttered under my breath but it was still heard.

It was supposed to. “Funny coming from the girl who throws her fist at any given moment.” 

My face twisted in rage and I shut my eyes, keeping on moving forward. “As opposed to verbally attacking people with their insecurities when things don’t go your way.”

The tension continued to grow thick and I felt the stares of the group. In the back Suigetsu whispered loudly on purpose to lighten the mood.

“Mommy and daddy are fighting.” He said.

Sasuke and I stopped and snapped our heads to look back at the group at the same time, making them jump.

“We’re not fighting!!!” We screamed, making all five of them go wide-eyed at the pure hostility we were giving off.

Sasuke and I glanced at each other, glared, and in unison turned back to continue leading the party. After a moment the others moved again, this time staying silent. Man what the hell is even happening?

I should have stayed at Kaname’s. Coming here was a mistake. 

No. That’s not true. 

You may be angry, but you love him. Just be . . . patient. It’ll all work out . . .

Just be patient. 

That’s ridiculous. I stiffened but quickly regained my composure. I could feel Haru’s ever watchful eyes on me, but Sasuke didn’t appear to notice. That’s a plus.

I ignored the nagging feeling, but the pressure of the presence was there. Like it always is, but noisier than when it remains stagnant. I feel her breath, feel her weighing down on my shoulders and curling around me.

Her laughter echoed through my mind which seemed like static on a TV but louder. Brutal.  Unavoidable. My blood aches to move and there's shivers down my spine.

All which are normal but right this second they’re amplified. 

My negative emotions are just feeding into the constant frenzy that rages inside. I feel the danger. But I know that the only real danger around me is me. And for it to be kept in check I need to push this down.

Where’s a liquor store when you need it? Without Kaname by me to beat it back into submission I can only hope for something to haze my buzzing mind. 

My jaw clenched. I don’t want to rely on something like that. But if I push it down it’s just going to get worse.

I don’t have a lot of options here at the moment though. 

My gaze moved to Sasuke who looked on ahead angrily. There’s a pang in my chest at the sight. Grabbing his hand . . . would be inappropriate right now. 

I’m afraid if I were he’d rip his hand right from mine. That would only worsen my emotions and could activate it.

Push it down it is I guess. Nothing new there. Sasuke hasn’t been able to comfort me for a while. Of course it’s because he’s so busy and has other issues that are more important than me.

Then me.

Yeah.

I could laugh.

Somehow that figures. 

The only luck I ever have is gambling. And that’s not even all luck. Just some calculations and educated guesses. I had some luck, but never as strong as my brothers.

Goddess of fortune really loves him, that’s for sure. Even dealt a shitty life to start, he made his own that he loves.

He must’ve snagged it from me in the womb. Little bastard.

Thinking of Naruto did bring some comfort, still rather small but it was enough. Because that’s hope. My hope. My personal ray of sunshine. Maybe I could sneak a peek at him after a while. I’m sure a good dose of his radiant smile would recharge me. Maybe boost my morale.

That’s running a little low these days. Yet here I am. Still going strong. I’ve always been that way. If all else fails, I could go back to what moved me before.

Pure unadulterated rage and spite. 

Hey; if it works, it works. Not as nice as fueled by love and friendship but it still gets results. You got this Uzumaki.

“Miyuna.” I raised an eyebrow, not looking at Sasuke. “You want me to do something about him yet?” I glanced at him from my peripheral vision. He gave a subtle nod.

With a quick flick of my wrist I threw a special kunai backwards, flashing with it and behind the person who’s been following us.

The man jumped in surprise and I snatched his collar before flashing back next to Sasuke and dropped him at his feet. 

I crossed my arms as Sasuke and I stared down at him, the others circling around as well to trap him in. “Why are you following us?” Sasuke demanded, taking charge.

He can. I was never really a leader. I’ve always been the muscle. The backup. I support the others, that’s always been my standing. I hate leading. It fucking sucks. So he can have it.

He’s got a complex about it anyway. Might as well.

The man in front of us is young, maybe mid twenties. His headband claims to be that of the Leaf, but I know almost all shinobi from there and his clothes are from the Land of Water. And I brought him over so easily too. 

If he’s really a ninja, he’s a shitty one. 

The man glared at Sasuke with such heated force. Uh-huh. “I see you’re still pissing people off wherever you go.” I muttered, making him shoot me a look.

I just gestured to the man in front of us. This one is not my fault. At least not this time. I don’t go to the Land of Water often, for obvious reasons. And besides, the Mist is so dreary.

Not saying the Mizukage doesn’t have a target on my head but they’re the least worrisome. At the moment the Land of Earth is the only nation that just keeps coming for me.

They’re relentless. It’s not like I discriminated against them, they just happen to be the targets of Orochimaru and Sasori.

Though it did become more intense after killing the grandson. 

I think the old man has a granddaughter. I bet she’d be the next one to come for my head.

But the point is, this one isn’t my fault. I smirked, making Sasuke frown at me. I was amused, and he sighed, rolling his eyes. “I’ve never seen you before. Why do you have a grudge against me?” Tears, actual tears, formed in his eyes.

“You stole my woman!” He bawled. 

. 

. 

.

.

“Huh?” Everyone spoke at once.