F A M I L I A R

Departure

Beep. Beep. BEEP.

I quickly smashed my hand over my alarm clock, not lifting my head from the pillow. Once the noise ceased, I rolled over onto my back and rubbed the sleep from my eyes.

At least I actually managed to sleep through the night...

I didn't wake up with recollections of bad memories or nightmares, and for that I was thankful. If there was ever a time that I needed a good night sleep, it was right before this mission. I gave myself a small smile in the dark, proud of the sleep I accomplished, as I pushed myself up and out of bed.

While I showered and dressed, I couldn't help but giggle to myself as I recalled yesterday's meeting with Tsunade. Kiba was not happy in the least when we left her office. All he could focus on was that Shino was made team captain, apparently again, and that he felt he was more deserving of the title. I didn't really have an opinion on the matter though because I didn't know Shino in the least. Maybe he was a good leader? Regardless, I also thought Kiba felt a little defeated because the Hokage wouldn't even let him get a word in edge wise.

I let another smile escape as I finished brushing my hair. I couldn't get the image of his disappointed face out of my head. He just looked so cute, like he was a five year old who just dropped his popsicle on the ground. Hopefully he would be in a better mood this morning. I know I was just happy to get some freedom. I couldn't help but feel a little cooped up in the Leaf Village, and I know at least both Kiba and Hinata felt the same. Just knowing that you aren't allowed to leave can do that to anyone.

I wonder who is going to cover our border patrol?

I brought myself out of my thoughts as I looked myself over in my mirror. I wore my typical black hoodie that came to my navel with a plain blue tank underneath. I decided to wear some tight fitting black pants instead of my usual shorts since the weather had begun to get colder. Luckily they weren't too restricting since they were made out of the same stretch ninja material. Satisfied with myself, I quickly went down my mental check list of everything I needed before departing, and placed the essentials in my summoning scroll for later.

I threw my pack over my shoulder, looked at the clock, and decided that I would leave early. I grabbed a banana for breakfast and made my way to the entrance gate. Since the gate was one of the spots I was actually familiar with, I let my feet walk on autopilot as I took in my surroundings. It was a bit chilly, but not too cold. It was the perfect weather for a morning walk if you ask me. The breeze brushed against my face and brought the scent of dandelions once more. The birds greeted me as I walked and the tree leaves seemed to by waving goodbye in the wind.

As I approached, I could see my three teammates and Akamaru waiting at the gate. I raised my eyebrows at the sight, not quite expecting all of them to get here so early. I waved and smiled in their direction as Hinata waved also.

"Mornin' guys," I said, throwing my banana peel in the trash can by the guards' building.

"G-good morning Asuna," Hinata said with a sweet smile. She was fiddling with her fingers nervously, but her face said she was excited for this mission.

I turned my attention to Kiba, walking up and petting Akamaru. He barked a greeting at me and I smiled down at him, "I'm happy to see you too boy."

"He's not the only one who's happy to see you ya know," Kiba smiled at me. I unintentionally bit my lip at the sight of his teeth. "I was starting to think you weren't going to show."

"Oh?" I questioned, "And here I was thinking that I was showing up early."

Shino then spoke, stealing our attention. "I suppose now that we're all here we can set off. I'll fill you guys in during our travels." He turned and began walking out of the village, with Hinata on his heals. I was surprised he didn't greet me or say hi or anything. I was starting to think that maybe this Shino guy wasn't so friendly. I exchanged a glance with Kiba and we simultaneously turned to follow.