Juugo shrank in on himself, much like his little birds were doing. His arms went around his chest and he gripped his sides hard, breathing in an uneven gasp. His whole posture screamed fear and don't-come-close, and it was only the chakra that didn't match the rest. Even Juugo's rusty voice had a thread of fear in it.

It was as there as it always was, but not close enough to scare his friends. Maybe if he answered the questions he could go, and make himself safe, somewhere quiet and with no people he could reach.

"I was looking for somewhere safe."

Let that be enough. Every moment was a moment closer to blood---no. No.