[It's no surprise that he finds nothing easily read in the other man's outward demeanor and spoken words. They have both learned, perhaps in different ways, to mask true thoughts and intentions. It is more than a necessity given their profession. In most cases, it means survival. Yet in this moment Itachi is struck by the realization that he wishes his partner were somewhat more transparent to him now than normally—that it was easier to know Kisame's opinion on Stiles, and the vulnerable admission he has surrendered in an uncharacteristic move. If it means anything to the other man.

But the want is impossible. Truthfully, he doesn't even know what inspires it, outside the fact that they've operated for so long as a unit, making decisions and adjusting to outside variables together. It feels strange, wrong, to have gone on without Kisame. What did it change between them? What was changing, or had already altered past the point of recognition?]

… Unusual scars seem common in that dimension. [He feels that gaze, doesn't even need to confirm where it's pointed, inclining his head slightly. A hand reaches to tug down the collar with one slender finger and bare the small, dime-sized purple crystal, set in a bare throat. No necklace in sight.] Yes, it is. Amethyst.

[And his own look sharpens, dark eyes weighing heavy.]

Where is yours? Which of the four cardinal gems were you given?