Struck: A Kakashi Hatake Fanfiction

Chapter Two: Secrets

"So," I said as I slipped pieces of pork onto the grill in front of us, enjoying the sizzle that came immediately after. "What was it like to be Naruto's sensei?"

He chuckled as he quickly scooped some food into his mouth. With hands that fast I'm not sure I'll ever get a peek under that mask.

"Well, he is the number one knuckleheaded ninja," his eye crinkling in a smile again. "But he's also incredibly skilled," he allowed.

I nodded. "All three of your pupils it seems are quite powerful," I complimented. "What's your secret?"

"Ah, Miss Akiyama. I could never reveal my techniques," he said smoothly.

"Ha, of course. I'd love to be a mentor for my own team one day," I said wistfully.

"Well, if you stick around the Leaf, I'm sure Tsunade will put you to work soon enough."

"I suppose. It might be a nice change of pace to stick around one place for a while...But we have a mission to complete first." My tone turned serious.

He nodded. "Yes. What I need to know, Emiko, is what ties your family had to the land of Earth."

I nodded. "Well, I'll give you the shortened version." I finished a bite of food before starting.

"We've been to the Land of Earth many times over the years, probably more than other places actually. When Ryoto and I were growing up, our parents always made sure to find a family with kids our age anytime we moved somewhere new. The Fukuda family quickly became our closest friends..."

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The briefing I read had mentioned a Fukuda—Hideshi. Eldest son of Haru and Chiho, twenty nine years old, jonin with elite earth style abilities, ally. It appeared he had been assisting the Akiyamas on their final mission. From what I read, it sounded like he'd been a good source of information on the movements of the mysterious group of ninja the Akiyamas were investigating.

I watched Emi closely as she continued.

"Deshi and Hito—well Hideshi and Akihito—are twins, just a few years older than me. They got along so well with Ryoto, and they even managed to tolerate his little sister. Mother and Father were fast friends with Haru and Chiho, too. Our families just seemed to click. Of course, we made other friends in the area as the years passed, but the Fukudas were the closest thing to an extended family that we'd ever known.

"And then we grew up and they became our greatest allies of the Earth. I know that Ryoto was working closely with Deshi on this last mission," at the mention of his name, a slight blush came over her cheeks.

"Hmm," I answered as I chewed thoughtfully. "So, had you kept contact up with the Fukudas? Or just with your family recently?"

"Well...I haven't actually spoken with any of the Fukudas in some time," she said as she fidgeted with her chopsticks.

I raised my brow and she sighed. "I—well Hideshi—," she was flustered and took a deep breath. "We have a history, Hideshi and me. When it ended...it wasn't exactly amicable and I haven't spoken with him or his family since. That was about a year ago.."

"But the rest of your family kept ties with the Fukudas?"

"Yes. And when we received word of their mission in the Land of Earth just a few months later, they made plans to stay in the Fukuda's guest house upon arrival, per usual." She was mindlessly stirring her food with her chopsticks, no longer looking at me. What aren't you telling me, Emiko?

"So...when you say not amicable..." I trailed.

"Is that really relevant?" she questioned.

I tilted my head. "You tell me. According to that report, Hideshi was working with your family on this mission."

"Yes, as with most of my family's missions in that area," she answered. "What difference does that make?"

I shrugged. "Maybe none. But he may have been one of the last people to see them alive, and if I'm going to be interrogating this man I need to know what his relationship was with you and your family." She eyed me stubbornly and then she shook her head.

"I'd really rather not discuss it."

I could see the pain flash in her eyes just for an instant before she regained her composure. She met my gaze as I watched her finish her food.

"If it becomes pertinent, you'll get the details then," she sighed.

I just nodded. For now I'll let it go.

"We'll leave first thing day after tomorrow, sunrise," I said as I stood. I gave her a smile as I snatched the bill and said, "On me."

"Unnecessary, but thanks. Where are we meeting?" she said standing as well.

"Tsunade said you're staying in a room above the bookshop right? I'll just meet you there."

She nodded and I turned to pay the tab and leave. "Kakashi?" I heard from behind me.

I glanced back around to see her playful smirk. "Just how well did you know my brother, my family?"

I chuckled. "Well enough to get annoyed by his little sister's incessant prattling and her rubber ducky obsession."

She gasped and pointed a finger at my chest. "No one can ever know," she said with a wink. "I can't believe I don't remember you, Hatake."

"Me neither." Because I have so many memories of you, blondie.

"Well, see you around!" she said with a pat on my shoulder. "And thanks again for lunch."

"My pleasure, Miss Akiyama," I said, watching her go.