Sakura Haruno, The Fallen Cherry Blossom

Chap. 9: When it happened

Kiba's P.O.V.: Flashback (During the time they were searching for the duck)

I shook my head in answer to Narutos' silent question. "No scent here."

He sighed before trudging back to his sleeping bag. I couldn't help the sympathetic grimace that crossed my face. I trudged back to my own as I went over what I've managed to figure out so far.

1. Sasuke wasn't with Orochimaru. Apparently he killed the Sannin. Something I kind of doubt seeing as Orochimarus', well... A Sannin. The other two are able to kick butt no problem.. But then again the Third did seal his arms...

2. Sasuke isn't on his own anymore. At least three other people with him. One girl, two guys. One of whom is somehow able to communicate with animals seeing as birds are carrying strips of cloth containing Sasukes' scent.

3. Naruto's in love with the Uchiha. Forget the fact he's trying to hide it from everyone else. When you become the one he leans on most, he'll mention Sasuke quite a lot in the conversations you have together. How the others haven't figured this out yet is surprising. Then again he isn't the only one....

"Is something wrong, Kiba?" I looked over at the strange ravenette that became the substitute team mate in Sasukes' place. I sweatdropped. "Ah, it's nothing important, Sai...."

He gave me an emotionless look that I could tell he thought I was lying. I gave him a small reassuring smile. "It's nothing. Can you tell the others I'm going for a walk? Thanks."

I didn't really give him an answer as I disappeared into the trees. I heard him come up behind me and said, "I think I'll join you. Is that alright?"

As long as I don't accidentally kiss you.... "If you want, I don't care." Just don't get too close... otherwise I might...

"Then I think I will." Internal cursing started up in my head as I gave him a acknowledging nod. It was quiet until we reached the waterfall. When we finally got there, I slipped my sandals off and rolled up my pant legs, then waded into the water. I ignored the fish that flew around in the water before they disappeared into... Well wherever fish go. I could feel Sais' eyes on me. Kind of unnerving, but it was ignored. Until he broke the quiet.

"Kiba?"

"Hmm?"

"How do you think the Hag will react to us leaving her behind?" I paled considerably at the thought.

"Ah... let's just say we should leave her alone for a day or two if we don't want to face her wrath." I shuddered at the thought. "I feel kind of bad though.. I mean her close friends left her behind. That's bound to do something to her. Whether it pisses her off or makes her cry, I know she won't speak to us for a while. And if we try..." I winced and rubbed my arm. "Lesson number one, Sai, never piss her off. She may seem weak, but she sure as hell isn't. I learned that during her training with Lady Tsunade. And all I wanted was a pocky stick..."

I grumbled a bit before being asked another question that I nearly died from. "Do you like her in a romantic way?"

I looked at him startled. "Huh?"

"I asked, do you-"

"No, I know what you said... Why would you think that?"

He shrugged, eyes still blank. "It was just a question. And what do you think Sakura thinks of you?"

I gave him a bland look. "If you're trying to imply something Sakura has her eyes on someone else and so do I." I turned away frowning slightly. He may have been in the Anbu, but that just kinda made him stupid in the emotions category.... I think I fell for an idiot...