You adjusted to your life in The Akatsuki quicker than you could've ever imagined. Days turned to weeks, weeks turned to months. After all, you did always have a knack for adjusting to new surroundings. For your whole life, you'd been moving around, never staying in one place…but here, it felt a little more permanent, like a real home. You tried to tell yourself not to get too comfortable though. Life always had its way of throwing unexpected changes your way. But for now, you were trying your best to just to live in the moment.
You fit in here. There was an unspoken understanding between all of you. Like it or not, these were your people. Criminals, thieves, murderers…hell, Deidara was practically a bomb terrorist himself. And, It's not like your hands were exactly clean either…but, this was a place that looked past those kinds of sins. All this was for a greater goal after all: A better world. Humanity's salvation. If Pain was a god, then you and the others were his Angels of Death.
In fact, you were currently on an assassination mission right now. Well, more like spectating one. You'd done your job: locating the target. Then, you let the men do their work. You couldn't actually see what was going on from your position, but you could sense their chakra just fine.
Only a few minutes passed before you saw your partner's approaching figures. This had been the agreed rendezvous point. You step out from the shadows of a few trees, making your way over to the two of them. "How'd it go, boys?~" You inquire, though there was really no point in asking. You knew damn well they'd gotten the job done quickly and efficiently.
"How'd it go?" Kisame repeated. "Not bad. Found the target and put him down as ordered." He mused. "…Good work on your part," He commented, reaching out to pinch your cheek. "Still such a nice piece of eye candy for the road."
You let out a giggle as you lightly shoo his hand away. You didn't seem to mind comments like that anymore. There was really no point in being offended. After the few months spent being his partner, you'd become accustomed to it. It was simply a matter of understanding his humor. That was all.
"Well, here's to another successful mission then." You beamed. "Are we heading back to headquarters now, or is there still more work to be done?"
Itachi shook his head. "No, that's it."
You let out a soft hum of satisfaction. "Ah, perfect." You answered, as you stand in the middle of them, doing your best to wrap your arms around their shoulders. Itachi had never been one for physical touch, but he stood there and took it, expressionless as always. You were practically on your tip toes, considering how much taller they were than you—especially Kisame, who, as if by instinct, leaned down to accommodate you. "I can't wait to lie down, my feet are killing me." You exclaim, glancing down at the stilettos you'd been iconically wearing since day one.
"That does sound nice…" Kisame agrees.
"I'd kill for a day off." You sigh. "…Hey," you add, a grin tugging at your lips. "You think I could convince Pain-sama?"
"…It's unlikely." Itachi's deep voice followed.
You turn your head towards him with a frown. Well, if he said so, it was probably true. After all, he was the brains of this operation.
"Don't be such a downer, Itachi-san," Kisame chuckled. "Give the kid a little hope."
Itachi merely let out a quiet hum in response. "We should get going." He concluded, beginning to walk forward.
You let out a sigh of defeat. Well, so much for your day off. "Right, let's go…"
—
When the three of you returned to HQ, you reported to Pain as usual. He listened intently, nodding as you recounted the mission's success. With your task complete, you were free to retire for the evening.
You didn't hesitate to settle down yourself. The first thing you did was head to the shower, letting the hot water wash away the grime and tension of the day. The steam filled the room, enveloping you in a comforting warmth. After your shower, you slipped into more comfortable clothes and completed your nightly routine.
Finally, you collapsed onto your bed, feeling the day's exhaustion catch up with you. The familiar surroundings of your dorm provided a sense of security and peace, and you soon found yourself drifting off to sleep.
***
Oh.
You were here again…right where you left off last time.
Orochimaru had caught on to your weakness far quicker than anyone ever had. He saw it in your eyes—the longing. The desperate hunger for validation. For the belief that you were worth something. And now, he had something to use against you.
"…Thank you." You finally respond after a moment. You tried not to display too much emotion when you said this, but you were sure you practically looked star-struck. You could confidently say that this man had treated you better in this brief interaction alone, than any other man ever had in your entire life. That fact made your stomach twist in a way you couldn't quite place.
"It's my pleasure," he replied smoothly, his voice like honey, dripping with warmth. "Anyone as determined and talented as yourself deserves to be recognized..."
It was too easy for him—this manipulation. And the worst part was: you were falling for it…even if you could feel the sharp, biting truth in the back of your mind. It was too good to be true. But still, you wanted it to be…needed it to be. No one had ever made you feel this way before. The idea that you mattered—even for a moment—was intoxicating.
"Listen…" Orochimaru continued, his gaze piercing. "I have a proposition for you. It's your choice, of course…" He paused, letting the silence drag between you like a growing rope of tension. "…But if you come with me, no one will ever touch you again."
You're just staring up at him absolutely dumbfounded, hardly even noticing the tears now rolling down your cheeks. What was he saying? He expected you to just follow him, even though he was a complete stranger? …Then again, what other option did you really have? If he meant to harm you, wouldn't he of already done so? He killed those men…in order to protect you…right? He saved you. A man…saved you.
You made a quick in-the-moment decision, and chose to go with him. Little did you know that decision would be one of the biggest mistakes of your life…
…
…
He led you out into the woods, which honestly, should've been your first red flag, but you were practically still in shock from what happened earlier. You clearly weren't in the right state of mine, you hadn't even said a single word to him since it happened.
Eventually, he brought you to a small clearing surrounded by looming trees. Just ahead, was a small staircase, leading somewhere underground. Oh, hell no…he wanted you to go down there? You practically froze up right there, looking down at the staircase with a puzzled expression.
"Don't be frightened." He spoke up, as if sensing your uncertainty. "It's safe. Trust me."
You should've run. You should've turned around and fled, but you didn't. Something kept you there, still tethered to him. So, what did you do? You actually followed him.
You make you way down a long, dark, corridor, keeping at least a five foot distance between the two of you. He glanced back, and you caught a flash of something in his eyes—a dark, calculating amusement. "This is my secret hideout. You know what that means, don't you?"
You lowered your eyelids. He spoke to you as if you were five years old. Then again, he probably just assumed you were still in shock due to your silence. You suppose you didn't mind it. Though you could practically feel his malicious intent, he had a rather calm demeanor. He spoke softly, unlike most men you'd been around.
"You should consider yourself lucky," he continued. "You're the first girl to ever visit here." He paused a moment before letting out a small chuckle. "…Alive, that is." You felt your stomach churn as you stopped dead in your tracks. What did he mean by that!?!? You took back anything you had initially thought about him. This man was a cold blooded killer, and you were his next victim! What the hell were you thinking, following a stranger like this!? How could you be so naive!?
The dark haired male turned towards you once more as he realized you were no longer following. He blinked once. "I was only joking." You swallowed, before heaving out a shaky sigh. A joke? He had a rather…interesting sense of humor. "Come," He insisted. "There's nothing to fear, child."
You shivered, wrapping your arms around yourself before following behind him again. He led you down the corridor, until it emptied out into a large room. It seemed like some type of laboratory. Who knew what he did in here. You were starting to feel more and more uncomfortable the longer you stayed. You watched as he pulled a chair out from under a large counter top. He dragged it out in front of him before looking towards you. He simply patted the top, as if gesturing you over.
You raised an eyebrow skeptically. You were in new territory. You didn't know him, you didn't trust him. It was best you didn't approach him yet. Then again, he did save you. You shouldn't be rude, either. "…No thank you, I'll stand." You spoke up.
"Suit yourself." He hummed, before sitting down himself.
It fell silent after that…an awkward silence. He was just staring at you. You could practically feel yourself tremble under his motionless gaze. You couldn't help but feel this was just what he wanted…to get a reaction out of you. You were young, but you weren't dumb. Just what did he save you for? You let out a soft sigh, before bowing your head. "Thank you for helping me out back there, Mister…but, I get the feeling it wasn't because you were feeling altruistic, right?"
His smile seemed to only grow wider. "My, my, you are rather perceptive for a little girl."
You felt your stomach churn once again. You really hated the way he was looking at you right now. It was as if he was memorizing every inch of you. He hadn't laid a single finger on you, and yet, his gaze alone struck fear into your heart.
You twiddled with the rim of your skirt before looking up at him. "…So, what is it that you want from me? I realize I'm in your debt, but I truly have nothing to offer." You explained.
He rested his chin on the palm of his hand. "I'm not holding you to anything…"
"Then, why'd you bring me here?"
"I didn't bring you anywhere. You followed me here of your own volition." You blinked once as you realized he was absolutely right. Why did you follow him anyways? He let out a chuckle at your silence. "You're growing more and more curious. That's a good thing. People can never escape their curiosity. Yes, yours tastes rather nice."
Tastes? The hell was that supposed to mean? You swallowed, before letting out a rather nervous giggle. "Um, alright…let me rephrase, then. Why invite me here? You did say this place was secret. Why me? If you intend to kill me—
"Nothing quite so heinous. I figured you might be interested in what I'm working on."
"…"
"…A way to bring back the dead."
***
"…Y/n."
The sharpness of the voice cut through the remnants of the dream, dragging you back into reality.
"Y/n!"
You woke with a start, a soft gasp escaping your lips as your heart raced.
"Y/n," A gruff voice called again, this time more impatient. "Wake the hell up!"
Your eyes adjust to their surroundings, revealing the blonde-haired male looming over you. The familiar weight of his presence was the only thing grounding you. "D-Deidara-kun…?" You didn't question how he got in. That's because: you already knew. You'd given him the spare key to your dorm months ago. Out of all the members, your bond with him was the strongest. The two of you had clicked in a way you hadn't expected, and that was a rare thing, especially in the Akatsuki.
"Come on," He insisted. "Hurry and get dressed. The Leader's calling for a meeting in twenty minutes."
"Twenty minutes?"
"Uh-huh, so hurry, would ya? I don't wanna go in there alone, yeah?" He complained.
You place your hand over your face with a groan. "…No, you go ahead. I'll be there, promise. I just need a minute, kay?"
He let out a small huff in response. "Fine, but don't take forever, hm." He concluded, finally backing off. You watched as he made his way to the door, leaving you to do your business.
You let out a sigh as you glance down at the sheets below. Another dream…? That was your third one since joining The Akatsuki. You hated that. It made you feel like something bad was going to happen. Something bad always happened…
You shake your head to yourself, trying to focus. You didn't have time to linger on it. Pain was holding a meeting in just twenty minutes. Normally, you were up at the crack of dawn, but that dream had kept you in the realm of slumber much longer than expected.
You quickly pull the covers off your bare thighs, lightly swinging your legs over the side of the bed. You needed to hurry and get ready…
—
You rush towards the meeting room. You knew you were running late, but you hadn't wanted to leave your room without at least putting on a little make up first.
You push the large doors open, quickly making your way inside. "Sorry, I'm late! I…" You trail off as you realize every single pair of eyes in the room is locked on you. The awkward silence hangs thick in the air. Your heart skips a beat. You can't help but glance around, hoping for some kind of explanation. "…Why is everyone staring at me?" You ask nervously.
You can hear a snicker come from Hidan. "Come sit down, baby. You're gonna love this." He says, patting the spot next to him.
Despite the invitation, you go to take your seat between Deidara and Kisame as usual. Your stomach churns, the unease from earlier still lingering. "…What's going on?"
Pain idly taps his finger on the table. "Akatsuki has a group mission." Group mission? It'd been a long time since the entire team was sent out together. "Y/n," He continues. "Your role is imperative." You swallow. Just great… "As we were discussing, it's an assassination."
"Who?" You inquire.
"His name is Kenji Yuto, a cunning man whose influence in the shadows is growing too strong." Pain explains. "I've had Kukuzu and Hidan studying his patterns, his tastes, and his weaknesses for awhile now. They've found the most effective means of drawing him out…"
"Which is?" You ask, already dreading the answer.
"To present him with an irresistible prize at the next auction!" Hidan gushes from the side.
Whoa, Whoa, Whoa…auction???
Pain gives Hidan a short glance of disapproval before speaking once more. "Right, and that's where you come in, Y/n. The coliseum is located on a remote island off the outskirts of Kumogakure. Most times, patrons there are looking for shinobi with a rare Kekkei Genkai…but, the woman are bought for a variety of…other reasons."
Before you even have a chance to speak up, Deidara stands abruptly from his seat next to you, hands splayed on the table. "Oi, oi, oi!" He shouts gruffly. "I don't like where this is going…!"
Pain ignores the protest as expected. "Y/n, your role is to act as bait. Kenji doesn't normally come out of hiding, but you…" He trails off, as if unsure of how to finish.
You're just sitting there absolutely dumbfounded. "…So, let me get this straight," You begin, after a moment of silence. "You want me to just…willingly give myself to the enemy?"
"No way!" Deidara grunts from beside you.
"Calm down, we've already arranged it so Y/n will be perfectly safe." Hidan states matter of factly. "That greedy old geezer will be dead before he can even lay a hand on her."
"Oh, yeah? How exactly?" Deidara snaps.
Now that you were quite interested in yourself…
Pain lets out a sigh. "Enough…I've assessed the situation. I wouldn't send her in if I didn't think she'd be coming back out." Deidara's brow twitches slightly in response, his jaw clenched.
"…So, what is the plan then?" Kisame, who'd been sitting silently beside you, spoke up.
"Y/n will enter the auction as bait. Once Kenji buys her off, he'll take her back to his personal quarters. This is precisely when he'll be at his most vulnerable—"
"What!? How do we even know he'll go for Y/n?" Deidara intervenes. "What if some other random creep gets his hands on her instead?"
"…He has a point." You agree. "How do we know this guy will even want me?"
"Don't be so modest, baby, you're an irresistible lay." Hidan says nonchalantly, causing both men beside you to send him a death glare. "Besides, you've got some pretty unique abilities too, don't cha?" Hidan hums. "He's bound to come after you. All you've gotta do is entertain him for awhile."
You give the male an unamused look in response. "And, if you're wrong?"
"Don't sweat it. I'm telling you, this plan's full proof." Hidan insists, before pausing a moment. "…Buttt, if by chance something does go wrong, good ol' Kakuzu will get you out, won't you, buddy?" He smirks, wrapping an arm around his said partner.
Kakuzu brushes Hidan's arm off with a quiet scoff before glancing your way, his eyes scrutinizing every inch of you. "…I wouldn't waste more than a dime on her." Wow. You were worth a whole ten cents to your teammate. Honestly, considering it was Kakuzu, you were surprised he'd even consider spending that much on you. Better than nothing. You'd take it as a win.
"Eh? Don't be so greedy, Kakuzu." Hidan complains.
"Enough." Pain looks over at Kakuzu with a cold gaze. "You will." He commands. "This team is irreplaceable." Kakuzu certainly looked annoyed, but didn't argue on it further.
Hidan nods enthusiastically. "See? Nothing to worry about."
Pain clears his throat. "As I was saying, Kenji will be at his most vulnerable once he's with Y/n since he'll have his guards wait outside. That's precisely the moment Itachi and Kisame will move in." He explains. "Itachi can use his Sharingan to quietly take care of the guards, meanwhile Kisame will make his way to Y/n."
Kisame grins from beside you. "Ah, I see where this is going…"
You couldn't help but glance over at Itachi then too. He hadn't spoken a word this whole time…
"I still don't like it…" Deidara sighs, finally settling back in his seat, arms crossed like the moody teen he was.
"Deidara," Pain speaks up. "You and Sasori will wait at the rendezvous point. Kakuzu has rented a speed boat for means to travel. Make sure everything holds up there. And if there's trouble, make sure you're ready to take off quickly."
"Ugh, bench duty, seriously?" Deidara groans, while Sasori nods from beside him.
"As for Hidan, he'll be in the crowd as a false bidder. He'll be able to oversee the arena from the stands. Then lastly, Kakuzu will act as Y/n's sponsor." Pain concluded.
Hidan lets out a chuckle. "See Kakuzu? Maybe you can make some big bucks out of this, after all." He teases. The look Kakuzu gave you then almost made you shiver. Just great. Now it was like he was expecting it. But, what if they were all wrong? What if this guy didn't want you, after all…?
"Konan and I will remain here to protect the base. I trust you all can handle this." Pain states. "Does everyone understand their role on this mission?" After getting verbal approval as well as a few nods, Pain continues. "Good, then be ready to leave by tomorrow. Dismissed."
Everyone collectively begins to file out after that, heading off to do their own daily tasks. You could still hear Deidara's voice echoing in the hallway, his complaints sharp and insistent. Sasori's response was a low murmur, almost drowned out by the ambient noise, "what's done is done."
If you'd been paying attention, perhaps you would've caught the troubled look on Itachi's face, his eyes flickering with a rare hint of vulnerability…but you were too caught up in your own thoughts. This mission…terrified you. But, it was something you had to do…for the team. Everyone was depending on you.
You were about to make your way out of the conference room when suddenly you felt a hand on your shoulder. You freeze up slightly, before looking over your shoulder to see Kisame's tall figure looming over you. "…Hey," He says, his tone and expression uncharacteristically dark. "If that guy, Kenji, lays a single finger on you…"
…
…
…
"I'll send his head rolling."