Let It Burn: Death [Sasuke Uchiha]

Chapter 63

Chapter Inspiration: Monument by Röksopp & Robyn [play 00:00-03:05]

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

"Good morning," Hinata greeted.

She was relieved to see the guest after days of silence on her end. The Hyuuga hoped that with her being here, she was ready to talk about what happened as Mai stood on the other side of the open door. However, she was dressed in uniform. Hinata's smile fell a bit. Talking didn't appear to be on the agenda today.

"Do you have a mission today? I thought you were still on leave?"

"Change of plans," the Be Fong answered.

"Well, would you like to come in for a little bit?"

"Sure."

Moving through the compound the two came to the sitting room. The Hyuuga slide the door open.

"Shino, we have company."

Mai froze before stepping inside. The bug expert lounged on the larger couch on the far side of the room. His attention shifted towards them and the Phantom Ninja hung back. This was not part of the plan. Hinata was supposed to be alone–

"Mai?"

The two noticed her hesitation. Shino took in the calculating look in her eyes. Something was up.

"Sorry," she apologized. The Be Fong took a seat.

The Hyuuga offered a cup of hot tea as the silence carried on.

"Where are you heading?" Hinata asked.

"I need to do some clean up outside the border," Mai answered. "There's a criminal presence hanging around that the Hokage wants to be rid of."

"Is it safe?" Shino questioned.

The serial killers were still out there and there had been no recent word on their whereabouts. These individuals could be lying in wait for the perfect moment for the Village to screw up by sending her out beyond the walls. Especially when it seemed no one else could handle the matter besides the Be Fong. Then there was the latest interaction they had during training... this whole situation made the Aburame wary. Nervous even that she may still be a bit... unstable.

"Yes. Otherwise, the higher-ups wouldn't have approved it."

"How long will you be away?" Hinata asked.

"Hopefully not long. It's not too far... but sometimes there are unexpected changes if the target moves position."

"That's understandable–"

"Why did you come by?" Shino interrupted Hinata.

Instantly the Be Fong was on guard.

"We were supposed to enjoy an afternoon off," Mai simply stated. It was the truth. Before what happened with Kiba the two friends made plans. "I came by for a rain check."

"You're not telling the whole truth."

One of Mai's brows slightly rose. The gig was up and knew it was useless to keep up the charade any longer. They weren't inexperienced Genin that could easily be tricked.

"I wasn't expecting you to be here, so this changes things... somewhat."

"What are you talking about?" Hinata questioned.