[ In the space of that uneasy silence, Kisame wonders if he ought to speak. But what would he say? Brushing Itachi's gratitude aside is an option, but that would be disingenuous even for him. He can't very well feign indifference, either; if he were indifferent, the necklace would still be in Hell. Some part of him — the reckless part — wants to offer an explanation. What would happen then? What would his cold partner think if Kisame were to admit that he had clung to the only piece of Itachi that remained?
The moment passes. Kisame keeps his useless sentimentalism to himself. The sensation of falling fades; in its place comes the dull, heavy weight of exhaustion. He tries not to let it show. He can rest later. ]
Thank you. I'll keep you informed of any interesting developments.
[ Those words feel strange to say. When was the last time he needed to 'keep Itachi informed' of anything? Not only is Itachi a genius, but they worked side-by-side for years. Even privacy was minimal, what with needing to watch each other for signs of treachery. There was no need for such updates when Itachi was right beside him.
But things have changed since then. Itachi died. Kisame has spent six months on his own or at Madara's right hand. Now Itachi is alive once more, living a second life in which he is "involved." And Kisame still has a mission to accomplish. A new world to create.
He releases a quiet breath. So, they'll reside in different places, and they'll find each other if needed. It could be far worse. ]
… I'm pleased that you're here as well, Itachi-san.
[ Words that skirt the truth: "I'm so thankful that you're alive." ]
[Kisame is not the only one who has noticed the implicit change. Were they still in Hell, he might have fallen easily to his partner’s side in living accommodations and regular company as before. The better to watch and monitor their surroundings. But there is no need now, in this world and its relative safety by comparison -- that, and he has already turned down Stiles’ offer to live together. How would it seem if he went to Kisame instead?
And the differences of time, environments, circumstances. Here, he is sick. He isn’t sure what would happen if Kisame discovered this; perhaps, as was the case while he was alive, nothing but quiet compliance. Yet he is no longer willing to put that burden on his partner if it isn’t strictly necessary. He can manage well enough on his own.
The comment stops him, head turning, attempting to gauge Kisame’s expression for its subtlest details. Whether or not he reaches some conclusion, the slight dip of his head reveals little.]
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no subject
The moment passes. Kisame keeps his useless sentimentalism to himself. The sensation of falling fades; in its place comes the dull, heavy weight of exhaustion. He tries not to let it show. He can rest later. ]
Thank you. I'll keep you informed of any interesting developments.
[ Those words feel strange to say. When was the last time he needed to 'keep Itachi informed' of anything? Not only is Itachi a genius, but they worked side-by-side for years. Even privacy was minimal, what with needing to watch each other for signs of treachery. There was no need for such updates when Itachi was right beside him.
But things have changed since then. Itachi died. Kisame has spent six months on his own or at Madara's right hand. Now Itachi is alive once more, living a second life in which he is "involved." And Kisame still has a mission to accomplish. A new world to create.
He releases a quiet breath. So, they'll reside in different places, and they'll find each other if needed. It could be far worse. ]
… I'm pleased that you're here as well, Itachi-san.
[ Words that skirt the truth: "I'm so thankful that you're alive." ]
no subject
And the differences of time, environments, circumstances. Here, he is sick. He isn’t sure what would happen if Kisame discovered this; perhaps, as was the case while he was alive, nothing but quiet compliance. Yet he is no longer willing to put that burden on his partner if it isn’t strictly necessary. He can manage well enough on his own.
The comment stops him, head turning, attempting to gauge Kisame’s expression for its subtlest details. Whether or not he reaches some conclusion, the slight dip of his head reveals little.]
Likewise.
[In the lingering silence, he turns to leave.]