Illusions of Serenity

Chapter X

"Refractions"

…

Uchiha Itachi's eyes slowly opened, the sight of a pale morning greeting them. The sun had barely begun to rise and the stream ahead had yet to reflect the shift of color from night to day. He was still for several moments, recalling the evening's events before allowing his gaze to lower and rest on the girl against his shoulder. Her expression was serene, soft easy breaths indicating that her slumber was free of anxiety.

He looked to their entwined hands, a small smile forming as he marveled at the indicator of his transition from heartless enemy to trusted companion. Though he did not necessarily consider it wise for her to so carelessly disregard his status, he nonetheless appreciated her acceptance.

Simply remaining beside her a moment, he began to contemplate the day ahead. He would start Sakura's training and then continue with her to the harbor town. He reasoned that it would be late afternoon by the time they arrived and hoped that the marshal would be at least able to hold a decent conversation.

The fauna of the land was different from what he had known and so finding a cure would potentially prove difficult. He reasoned that they might have to rely on the fish-beater's guidance after all on that account. Another factor was the potential contract of the disease that would befall either he or Sakura.

Considering it was not airborne, he thought it highly unlikely that it was transmitted from person to person, as it had been induced during a single night. Even in Yokusei, it was highly unlikely that so many individuals had come in to contact with one another in such a short time. It was most probably spread through some common and widespread method, such as food poisoning or even the water.

In any case, he supposed they would simply have to wait and discover the source upon arrival. He also surmised that the danger of he and Sakura falling ill was strangely unlikely. It was simply a feeling he had, that the Leader of the realm had other plans in mind for them. He did not know how the curious world worked but he strongly believed that the man played a big hand in somehow manipulating and controlling the fates of his people.

However, he would certainly remain vigilant and withhold from consuming either the water or the food within the town. As far as staying outside its walls as much as possible, he found that he wouldn't prefer it any other way. The people in that place seemed a great deal more hostile, despite the equivalent lack of intellect.

Itachi sighed and after glancing to Sakura once more, slowly removed his hand and carefully maneuvered to his feet without disturbing her sleep. She stirred only briefly in response before relaxing and wrapping both arms about her torso. He then knelt and grabbed his bag before making his way toward another tree beside the bank of the river and clearing a section of grass in a circular shape. He then proceeded to gather a few stray twigs and leaves surrounding him before setting them into the center of the circle. It had been a long time since he found himself needing to create a fire through more conventional means and he again smiled on the memory of that most recent time. He and Shisui had been on a covert mission and were obligated to suppress all chakra. His partner had become very frustrated with the amount of patience required to naturally create the fire.

He stood and approached the stream before kneeling beside it and dipping his hand beneath the cool water. Grasping a pair of smooth stones, he inspected them a moment before returning to the tree and proceeding to begin the process of igniting a spark. Several moments later, he succeeded and lit the small pile he had accumulated within the circle. A small, yet steady flame was encouraged as he gently exhaled onto the created spark, prompting its growth.

Reaching inside his cloak to remove the small bag at his waist, he removed the travel kettle he used to make tea while on his missions for Akatsuki. After filling the small container with a bit of the water he purchased in Churitsu, he held it patiently over the fire and absently watched as it began its rise toward a suitable temperature.

When he decided it was ready, Itachi looked to his other bag and took out the package of tea before measuring a small amount and allowing it steep within the kettle. He poured it into the small cup before emptying the remaining contents and lifting his eyes to the still sleeping girl a few feet ahead. With a slight nod he then repeated the entire process, as the kettle only provided enough tea for one cup and the girl would undoubtedly enjoy one as well.

Once finished, he allowed her portion to remain within the steel container for the sake of staying warm before lifting his own cup and rising to approach the steam. He cast his eyes across the water, the play of early light somewhat tantalizing. With a soft and easy smile, Itachi slowly sat against the tree, continuing to observe the scene, the cup of tea warming his hand and the gentle sweep of the breeze serving to further relax the tranquil atmosphere.

A memory resurrected itself then and Itachi allowed his smile to remain as he entertained it…

Itachi held the small hand of his little brother as they followed their parents down a path through the forest. It was one of the rare outings in which they would venture out somewhere as a family for the appeasement of their mother. Sasuke was happily skipping alongside him and Itachi clutched his hand tighter in response to the apparent display of excitement. He only hoped the day would go well and that they could return home without any added tension.

"Nii-san!" Sasuke voiced as they all came to a stop beside the river.

Itachi looked to his sibling with a smile and nodded, "what is it, Sasuke?"

"You promised we could go swimming today, right?"

"Aa," Itachi replied with another nod, "I did."

The child immediately grinned before rushing forward, pulling Itachi along with him. However, he abruptly slowed at the condescending glance their father cast in response to the action. Itachi sighed in slight relief when the man withheld an added comment before they continued toward a small clearing and their mother began setting out lunch. Fugaku turned his back and removed a scroll to silently scrutinize before Itachi felt a tug on his shirt.

"Can we go swimming now?"

Itachi looked to Sasuke, "if you'd like, I suppose we could go before lunch is ready."

The boy nodded and Itachi informed their parents before guiding his sibling along toward the water and sitting beside the bank to remove his shoes. "You have to be careful though, Sasuke. You've only just recently learned how to swim."

"I know that already Nii-san," Sasuke grumbled in response before sitting beside his brother and taking off his own shoes.

Itachi then lifted his shirt over his head before helping Sasuke out of his. He turned and slowly approached the water before allowing his eyes to widen as his sibling rushed past him and splashed into the lake, water flying out around him before he suddenly tripped and fell face first into the water.

Itachi, who had reached out a hand in a sudden attempt to warn his sibling, simply allowed it to lower with a shake of his head and small smile. Approaching the boy, he reached down and helped him up as the latter began to rub the water out of his eyes.

"Are you alright, Sasuke?"

The boy hesitated before nodding and lowering his hand, "…I don't know if I like this anymore, Nii-san."

Itachi sighed before extending his hand, "here. You can just stay beside me."

Sasuke looked to him before again nodding and grasping the offered hand. They continued trudging through the water and the boy only briefly seeming to tense when his feet could no longer touch the bottom of the river.

Itachi, feeling the anxiety his brother was emitting, looked to him in consolation. "It's alright, Sasuke. I've got you."

His sibling then assumed a controlled demeanor in obvious attempt to hide how uncertain he was. Itachi gripped the small hand tighter before swimming only a small ways further. He turned to look back at his brother only to see that he had stiffened considerably and was looking into the water with a highly concerned expression.

The boy had never actually swum in a lake before and so Itachi reasoned that the unfamiliar terrain was worrying him. "Sasuke," he began, "it's al-"

However, he was cut off when he boy suddenly inhaled sharply and immediately proceeded to jump onto his back, wrapping his arms tightly about his neck. Itachi's balance wavered at the unexpected contact and he looked to his sibling in alarm, "Let go for a moment, Sasuke. You're pulling me under."

However, Sasuke did not seem to hear him as he gripped tighter, providing too much weight for the older Uchiha to remain above the water. He quickly reached up to try and pry the arms away from his neck, "Sasuke, you have to let go."

He was starting to slightly panic as he found he could not seem to manage removing the boy's hold. What exactly had alarmed him to such an extent? What should he do about it now? Should he call for their parents' help? They were quite a ways off and would most likely remain oblivious to the danger.

With a final effort, he reached back and firmly tapped his fingers against the boy's forehead. The action appearing to work as Sasuke immediately lifted his head with widened eyes, the red mark already forming to indicate how forceful the action had been.

The boy started to look around, somewhat disoriented as Itachi took the opportunity to remove his arms. Sasuke looked alarmed as he was released but relaxed when his brother kept one arm wrapped around his torso.

"I'm sorry, Sasuke," Itachi apologized, not liking how harshly he had needed to act. He then tilted his head, "what happened?"

Sasuke's eyes lowered as he lifted hand to his forehead, "I-I felt something in the water and it hit against my leg. I thought something was going to come up and drown me. I got really scared because I…" he looked ashamed, "I don't want to die, Nii-san."

Itachi's expression softened before he turned and gently guided Sasuke toward the shore, "I won't let that happen, Sasuke. I promise."

"Nii-san…"

"Hmm?"

Sasuke looked to him then, eyes full of trust. "I don't want you to die either."

Itachi smiled, "Don't worry, Sasuke. I'll always be here to protect you."

…

Itachi's lowered to his tea and he merely gazed into it with a distant expression, his own words coursing through his mind. Even if you can't see me, Sasuke, I'm still here for you. He lifted the small cup and took a sip, closing his eyes in reaction to the smooth taste. Despite it not being sweetened he still found its effects comforting.

He returned his observation to the stream as the morning progressed, the many shades of color becoming more prominent. He took the last sip of his tea, before setting the cup down and leaning his head against the tree behind him.

A soft gust of wind swept past and Itachi smiled at its invigorating presence before lifting a hand to move the hair that had fallen across his face. However, upon doing so a sudden voice cut through the silence.

"He left without me," his eyes shifted to his right to see Sakura standing, a glare directed toward the area in front of her. "I can't believe I trusted that bastard. He was acting so sweet before but that was obviously a trick. Bastard."

He wondered at her continuous habit of overlooking things. All she had to do was glance over at the stream to see him sitting beside it, his position only slightly hidden. He shook his head, and she just apologized for judging me, too.

Itachi was silent a moment, waiting to see if she would notice him herself before sighing and offering the girl a small smile. "Good morning, Sakura-san."

He watched as she sighed in response to his presence before returning his smile. "Good morning, Itachi."

Itachi lowered his eyes to the fire beside him, "I have some tea here for you."

"What kind of tea?" she asked before making her way over.

Itachi shrugged, "the kind I purchased in Churitsu. A simple blend, but still good."

"Alright," Sakura replied as she proceeded to sit beside him. "I trust your judgment."

Itachi merely regarded her silently a moment before tilting his head, "I must say, Sakura-san, I've certainly missed hearing you call me a bastard."

He smiled to convey that he was merely teasing her, before picking up the kettle and pouring her cup, noting the steam and concluding that it had still retained its pleasant warmth. He offered it to her, observing her expression for any change.

Her eyes widened, "you heard me?"

"Aa," he nodded.

"Then why didn't you say anything before?" she demanded, "You just let me think you had left."

"I was waiting to see if you would notice I was still here," Itachi responded.

Sakura glared before taking the cup of tea from his hand, "I'm beginning to wonder if you find amusement in my distress."

He smiled, pondering on all the times in which he had felt the amusement she was describing. However, it was not directed towards her distress, per say, but rather her irrational quirks.

"Why would I just decide to leave you here like that, Sakura-san?" he asked then, "I do believe you know me better than that."

Not to mention the fact that he actually needed to keep her as his partner for the sake of escaping the strange realm, though that was another matter entirely.

"I don't know," she answered with a shrug. "I guess I didn't really think about it. It was the first thing that popped into my head."

"Well," he replied, thinking back to the memory he had entertained only a moment ago. People had a certain tendency to act on impulse while in an unfamiliar situation, and he certainly understood how she may have allowed her anxiety to overshadow her reasoning. "I'm not going anywhere."

Sakura offered him a nod and another smile, "thank you, Itachi. I'm sorry if I offended you before."

He shook his head, "no need for that, Sakura-san. No offense taken."

The girl laughed in response, "it's strange how different you and Sasuke-kun are."

Itachi tilted his head as he wondered what she was referring to. "Different? How so?"

However, he knew full well that they were entirely different, Sasuke having often brought the matter up to him when they were younger. He had succeeded in convincing the boy that it was perfectly alright to assume his own identity and that the differences between people was something to be sought.

"Well, it sometimes seems like you're complete opposites," Sakura explained. "If I said that to Sasuke-kun he would usually get mad and call me annoying. On the other hand, you're not offended at all."

"I see," he replied, shaking his head as he again thought on the countless occasions in which he had advised Sasuke to approach what he saw as annoying with a smile rather than an outlook of negativity. He was not nearly as patient with things or people whom he could not relate to.

He sighed, "We're different people, Sakura-san. Despite being brothers, he still has his own personality. Besides," he looked to her, "when he doesn't understand someone it annoys him, he most likely did not mean to offend you."

"Really?" she asked as her smile returned. "Then I suppose it was pointless to get so upset about it every time."

Itachi suddenly had a visual of the girl before him and his younger brother, engaged in some heated argument and acting equivalently irrational. He knew Sasuke's tendencies and assumed that they had not differed too much since his younger years, and he was also beginning to grow accustomed to Sakura's. His smile widened and he looked to her, "I can picture that."

The girl nodded, "also, the world would be boring if people didn't have their own personalities."

"Aa," Itachi responded, "I completely agree with you."

"Good. I'm glad we're in agreement," she replied before taking a sip of her tea. She nodded, "You were right about the tea."

"Glad to hear it," Itachi replied before looking to the stream once more. "When you're finished we'll begin your training."

There was a brief silence before she suddenly exclaimed, "Oww. Why is it so hot?

Returning his eyes to Sakura, Itachi looked to see her glaring down into her cup. He sighed, "You shouldn't drink so fast."

"I was excited," she frowned, "and wanted to finish quickly."

He smiled, "you're not a very patient person, are you?"

Irrational, demanding, impulsive, unobservant, he mused to himself in slight amusement, and now impatient.

She appeared to consider his question before shrugging, "I suppose not but," she sent him a wink, "that's why you're here, isn't it?"

Itachi tilted his head before nodding, "I suppose so."

Sakura smiled before casting a glance about her surroundings. "So…training?"

The Uchiha again nodded before standing, "yes, I suppose we may as well get started now." He offered a hand to help her up.

He watched a strangely malicious looking smile cross her face as she reached up to take his hand. However, rather than allow him to lift her, she pulled on his hand, throwing him off balance. He caught himself on one knee and she stood with a laugh.

He looked up at her with a slight narrowing of his eyes, "and why, may I ask, did you feel the need to do that?"

"It's fun, Itachi. Even you have to admit it. But since you're obviously upset about it," she stated before smiling and returning his own gesture by offering a hand.

Itachi was motionless, "hmm," he mused thoughtfully. "Think you can manage?"

The girl's gaze also narrowed before she grasped his hand. Itachi allowed for a small smirk and waited for her to put her strength into lifting him.

"Are you ready?" she asked.

He nodded, "definitely."

Itachi watched as Sakura planted her feet and pulled before he abruptly removed his hold, causing her to stumble backwards and land in unceremoniously in the grass.

He stood then and walked to where she sat. Tilting his head, he briefly debated whether to simply walk past her before relenting and again holding a hand out to her. "Shall we try this again, Sakura-san?"

The girl merely crossed her arms and turned her head away, "You did that on purpose."

"Aa," he nodded. "So did you."

"Yes but," she glanced up at him with a frown. "I was just doing that for fun and you did it to get back at me."

Itachi shrugged, "what I did was also fun and," he smiled, "at least I had a reason."

The girl stood without accepting his hand and he allowed it to lower as she continued, "It wasn't fun for me and what makes you think I didn't have a reason? Hmm?"

"What was your reason?" Itachi asked simply.

She scoffed in reply before moving past him and toward a small clearing. He silently turned and followed at a leisurely pace as they both entered the open field. He continued to observe her as he wondered if he had perhaps acted too rashly in descending to her level…again. He supposed he should've foreseen how she would react to the harmless act.

With a sigh, he decided that it would be left up to him to improve the tense atmosphere she had allowed to settle between them. He surmised that it would take some time to adjust to her shifting moods.

"Sakura-san," he called.

The girl turned to face him with a grin, catching him slightly off guard. "Yes, Itachi?"

He blinked before approaching Sakura and tilting his head slightly to observe her unconcerned features. A mere moment ago she had seemed so entirely upset with him.

"It was not my intention to offend you," he explained.

He felt Sakura pat his shoulder reassuringly, "That's alright. I've decided to let it go…this time."

Itachi smiled, "I'll be more wary in the future, then."

"Good," she responded. "Keep that in mind and don't let it happen again."

"Well," Itachi began. "Only so long as you agree to accept offered courtesies more appropriately."

"Do I have to?" the girl frowned.

He observed her sudden change of expression as his own features softened and his smile widened, "just be prepared to accept the consequences if you don't."

"Okay, Itachi," she returned his smile. "I promise."

He nodded then before casting his eyes about the area and surmising that it was a suitable enough location to conduct the girl's training. He began to formulate a plan on where to begin before returning his eyes to hers. "Ready?"

He watched her pound a fist against her palm, "Hell yeah!"

Itachi turned then and walked a few feet away before shifting to face her once more, "who have you previously trained under?"

He knew full well that Kakashi was no expert in medical jutsu, implying that someone else had overseen her progress in that department.

"Kakashi-sensei for about a year," she responded after placing her hands on her hips matter-of-factly. "Then Tsunade, one of the three Legendary Sannin and the Fifth Hokage, for about three years."

Itachi's eyes widened slightly at hearing her answer. He had heard of Tsunade and understood that she was most talented medic-nin known to the Shinobi world. As far as her becoming fifth Hokage, word had spread of that occurrence as well. However, he had no idea Sakura had become an apprentice of hers, a revelation that only further encouraged his confidence in her success regarding a cure for Yokusei.

"That's really impressive, Sakura-san," he stated sincerely.

"Thank you," she responded somewhat smugly. "It is, isn't it?"

"As I said," the Uchiha nodded, before tilting his head. "Now then, all you know are the basics of Taijutsu, right?"

He recalled their conversation the previous morning regarding her abilities but felt it appropriate to verify a final time before commencing.

The girl raised a brow in response, "What do you mean all I know?"

Itachi was silent a moment. Had he somehow offended her again? He certainly did not see that harm in his statement. "You told me yourself that this was the case. Am I wrong?"

"In a way, yes," the girl began. "Concerning Taijutsu, I only know the basics, but I know more than just that. I am actually quite skilled with chakra control. I was the best on my team."

Her team being with Sasuke and the Kyuubi Jinchuuriki, Itachi pondered before smiling. "That's wonderful, Sakura-san, really. However, as we are unable to use our chakra here, I'm afraid we cannot rely on its help at all." He paused before continuing. "However, this condition actually aids in the training you will be doing. Where Taijutsu is concerned it is always best not to rely on your chakra while training, as doing so will cause you to neglect the natural prowess your body contains. Perfecting these abilities without the aid of chakra will only make you the more capable when you experience its return and find all of your work enhanced."

He smiled, "and, as a medical Shinobi, you already know all of the pressure locations and vulnerable points of the body, increasing your potential at mastering the art."

The girl returned his smile, conveying how obviously pleased she was with his words. "Then I am the perfect pupil, Master Uchiha."

"Yes," he nodded, "perhaps you are." He then motioned for her to approach, "let's first see what you are already able to do."

Sakura made her way over and stopped in front of him. "What do you want me to do?"

"Well," he began. "Start attacking me with what you know. I need to analyze your capabilities."

"Alright then," she replied before cracking her knuckles. "Don't cry if I hurt you."

Itachi sighed before nodding, "I will try my best."

Grinning, the girl drew back her fist and, with seemingly as much power as she could manage, directed it towards his face. Itachi reached up to block her wrist. "So obvious, Sakura-san."

"Oh, am I?" she asked, attempting another blow at his face. However, he caught the sudden movement of her leg and quickly reached down to halt her kick as he maneuvered away from her fist.

"Aa," he nodded with a smile as he released both the wrist he still held in one hand and the ankle he had grasped in the other. He stepped back, "rather than focusing on the force behind your movements, look to your balance and aversion techniques."

He tilted his head, "being that your stature is so small, you will undoubtedly find yourself coming across bigger opponents. However, if your form is executed correctly, size will no longer be a factor. What I will be teaching you involves using your enemy's own power against them."

Within a matter of moments, he had already surmised what her typical fighting style comprised. He reasoned that she often relied on impulse within her fights as well as a force of power. However, such an approach would only exhaust her against someone who would be able to dodge her more straight-forward methods.

However, he also recognized that she was an adept problem-solver and could analyze a situation successfully. It was an overall helpful trait to utilize within combat.

His smile widened, "you will be acting in much the same way I did earlier, when you tried to lift me. All I had to do was let go."

"Are you trying to tell me I could even beat you, without using a lot of effort?" she asked, a curious glint of anticipation reflected within her gaze.

"Perhaps," Itachi nodded simply, amused. "You certainly have potential." Most interesting of all was the fact that she had somehow evaded the casting of his genjutsu, a mystery he had yet to unravel. If she was somehow immune to his ocular powers then yes, she could someday surpass that most prominent ability his clan possessed.

"I look forward to reaching my full potential then," Sakura stated with a smile.

Itachi felt a sudden and inexplicable urge to witness her full abilities as well, despite knowing that he would be long gone by the time she reached that level. Why did that unexpectedly instill a subtle regret?

He cast the thought from his mind then before returning her smile, "That aspiration is worthy of fulfillment, especially for a Shinobi. We all have our unique ambitions that we strive to achieve. But," he shook his head. "I digress."

He watched as she tilted her head then, seeming lost in thought before he shifted and lifted a hand, "aim a punch at me and I'll show you one way in which you can evade the attack while exerting only minimal strength."

Itachi waited for her response before lowering his hand as he noted the distant set of her eyes. "Sakura-san?"

"I want to become a great medical Shinobi and protect my friends!" she exclaimed loudly, causing Itachi to wonder if it had really even been directed to him.

He nodded however and offered a smile, conceding to oblige her statement. "That, is a far greater ambition."

Her eyes finally regained coherence as she looked to him, an answering smile forming. "Greater than what ambition?"

Itachi allowed for a brief silence before sighing softly, "than strengthening yourself for the mere sake of gaining power; reaching your full potential for your personal satisfaction alone."

A trait that had been unfortunately prevalent within his own clan, hastening their imminent downfall and prompting the nightmarish fate they had been dealt.

"That's a selfish goal," Sakura replied, considering. "I can't imagine anyone would be happy with that, even if it was for themselves. If you do everything for yourself alone, then won't you just be left with nothing in the end?"

Itachi nodded, "Aa, and that feeling of nothingness is undoubtedly the worst a person can feel."

She returned his nod and took a moment to apparently muse over his statement before again looking to him, "Itachi, would you rather do the right thing if it means being looked upon with hate and fear, or the wrong thing if it means being blindly accepted with trust and love."

Such a simple question for the girl to ask and yet so suitable to the decision he had been compelled to make. How was it she always managed to inadvertently penetrate the depths of his mentality?

He reasoned he could still answer honestly without risking the discovery of anything he continued to withhold.

"One should always do the right thing," Itachi responded softly. "No matter the cost."

Perhaps it was a bit of advice that could aid her future decisions.

"What if there are more casualties from doing so than doing the wrong thing?" Sakura asked then. "For instance, if you're at war and an ultimatum is offered. To either surrender and send out your leader to be executed, or to continue fighting until every person is killed."

"I certainly hope you will never be faced with that sort of decision," Itachi stated sincerely. "Your generation is fortunate to be free of war. However, considering you scenario," he smiled and tilted his head. "You imply that the wrong choice would be the execution of said leader. However, would it not actually prove to be the right one, in the end? The burden would fall to that individual, and their single sacrifice would result in the continued lives of many others. It is often the responsibility of a great leader, the fourth Hokage of Konoha being an example of this. Do you consider his actions wrong?"

"No," Sakura shook her head. "They were very noble, in fact. However, even though he protected the village, it left us without our powerful leader."

"Ah," Itachi lifted a single finger to explain. "But a leader must also trust in those serving beneath him, that they will continue to thrive after his departure."

She nodded, "okay. That makes sense. What would happen if he couldn't? Because they're either corrupt or too weak to thrive without him."

Sighing, Itachi cast his eyes about their surroundings. "Even so, if he chose to remain alive, their lives would be potentially at risk. It would indicate that their leader was not such a great one, after all."

"So a good leader is supposed to put the protection of his village and people over anything else, even if it costs him his own life?" she inquired, and he wondered why she felt so compelled to discuss the matter.

"Aa," he nodded.

Itachi watched as an unprompted smile formed on her face before he reached down and gently grasped her wrist, lifting her hand in front of his face. "Now then, punch me."

"Why?" the girl asked, blinking several times to convey her confusion.

Ah, that's right…she didn't hear me before, Itachi recalled, before tilting his head. "I'm going to show you how to use as little strength as possible when facing an offensive attack."

The girl glanced to her fist a moment before returning her attention to his gaze. "Oh. How hard should I punch?"

Itachi shrugged before releasing her wrist, "not hard. This'll just be a demonstration so come at me slowly."

"Alright," she replied before aiming another blow at his face.

Itachi side-stepped her attack as he reached his opposite hand across to grasp her arm, pulling it forward before lifting his other behind the back of her neck, placing it just above the pressure point there. He paused and then released his hold before analyzing her face, "understanding how to throw someone off balance is helpful as well."

"Like pushing them on the ground?" the girl asked teasingly.

Itachi smiled, "that's one way of doing it. However," he shook his head. "Not nearly the most effective in regard to conserving energy."

"Oh," she frowned. "Well, imagine that. What are more effective ways then?"

Tilting his head slightly, Itachi responded. "Do you know where the body's center of balance lies?"

"The sternum," Sakura replied after some thought, prompting Itachi to again offer her a smile.

"Aa," Itachi nodded. "If you have someone rushing toward you, steady your own balance before delivering a quick thrust on the chest there, that will be more successful than trying to sweep their legs." He paused, "I want you to focus on both balancing and pressure points, utilizing your knowledge and preparing yourself to face a situation in which you can use a person's own momentum against them."

"I don't think I've ever used a sweep before," the girl explained with a smile. "So I wouldn't know the difference. I understand your orders though, Itachi."

"Well," The Uchiha nodded, amusement returning. "Then let's get started, shall we?" He then indicated his own eyes, "Another important thing to remember is to keep your attention focused here. The eyes are the best way of predicting an attacker's movements."

As she lifted her eyes to his, he blinked when a smirk crossed her face. "What if I don't like their eyes?"

He was silent before musing, "Hmm, would you rather risk losing a battle for something like that?"

Itachi suddenly recognized just how many things were reflected within her viridian gaze, ranging from a naïve trust in the way things were presented to her, to a remarkable conviction not to allow any taint upon the perfect world she unwaveringly believed in.

He had never actually had the opportunity to view the world that way, having known the harsh truth of reality from a young age. Actually seeing that invaluable light within her eyes was enough to accentuate his confidence in the decision he had made. Despite the darkness in the act itself, he had offered Sakura's generation a time without war or conflict.

Despite how often he lamented such an extreme ultimatum, Itachi would never regret that choice. He did not even want to imagine seeing her gaze reflect what his own presented.

Itachi heard her laugh, and he smiled in reaction to the sound. "I'm just kidding," she began. "I wouldn't lose because I was prejudiced against something like that. Even if I was, it wouldn't affect me if I was fighting you."

"Because of my genjutsu abilities?" he asked, still wondering if his illusions would even affect the girl anyway. He was then reminded of something he would try and bring up with her later, as she had mentioned possessing a power within her head. He was determined to unravel what exactly she had meant by that.

"That's not what I meant," she clarified. "But I suppose that's true, too."

"What then," Itachi asked, tilting his head curiously. "Did you mean, Sakura-san?"

She always seemed to have the most indirect ways of conveying what she actually intended to say.

"If I was up against an opponent and I lost because I didn't like their eyes, then it would be different if I fought you because I," she paused before smiling up at him, "like your eyes, Itachi."

He blinked down at her, having never necessarily been told that by anyone before. Most avoided his eyes as much as possible, simply due to the power lying within them. Most would even admit to be afraid of them. However, the girl before him was admitting to actually admiring his primary weapon source. What exactly did she see that could be worthy of admiration?

Or…he also reasoned that she was simply appreciating the physical shape, color or something of a similar sort. In any case, he relented to merely return her smile.

"It's not necessarily wise to lose your focus in that regard either, Sakura-san," he replied. "You would lose against me if you found yourself too captured by something like that."

The girl smirked before abruptly pushing aside the hair that had fallen in front of her face, "You don't have to worry about that, either. I wouldn't let that happen."

"Aa," Itachi nodded, "as I doubt you will ever have to fight me seriously."

"I'm glad," Sakura admitted. "I would never want to."

The Uchiha smiled, "neither would I." he tilted his head, "I would most likely lose."

Trusting that the situation would never present itself, Itachi momentarily cast his imperative task concerning Sasuke aside as he instead looked to her sincerely, wondering if she might understand what he had meant in saying what he did.

The girl however, cast him a doubtful look before shaking her head. "No, you wouldn't. You would definitely win."

Of course she didn't understand, he thought then as his features softened. "No," he shook his head as he took a step towards her, "because," he extended two fingers and gently tapped them against her forehead, allowing his eyes to fall within hers. "I just don't think I could ever bring myself to harm you."

Which was certainly strange, he pondered, considering he had once convinced himself to eliminate his entire clan. However, upon voicing as much to the girl, he found his statement to be entirely and curiously true.

He watched her eyes briefly widen in response before she recovered and looked to him with a smile. "I'm sorry. I didn't understand what you meant but," she then emulated his action and tapped his forehead with her own fingers. "I don't think it would feel like a victory if I won that way."

"Then I suppose," he returned her smile before lowering his hand. "It would be best if we simply avoided that situation altogether."

"I agree," she nodded before removing her own hand and he felt the brief lack of her touch before she claimed his hand within hers. "Promise?" she asked, "I don't think I could hurt you either."

Itachi smiled before nodding, "Aa. I promise." He then gently tightened his hold over her hand before releasing it and stepping back, "now then, let's commence your training."

She again cracked her knuckles as she grinned, "I'm ready."

Itachi again nodded before moving to stand beside her, "let's first focus on the basics of the technique I'll be teaching you. When fighting, keep your muscles relaxed until the moment of contact. Then, train them to automatically supply just the right amount of force to resist the impact. Your body will know to provide the correct amount of resistance."

He paused and then indicated her fist, "when punching, rather than exerting the muscle force from your arm alone, let your entire body guide your fist. Done appropriately, you will not even feel the impact on yours arms, shoulders or back-you will feel it in the soles of your feet, as the force is transferred back and forth against the ground."

He then indicated her leg, "as far as countering kicks, it is a common misconception amongst Shinobi that kicks are more formidable than punches, because they are believed to be more powerful. In actuality, among the four categories of attacks-hand strikes, kicks, felling, and grips-kicks are technically the easiest to counter. The most effective way is to gently lean your body the moment the kick is executed against you then quickly moving forward to counter-strike before your opponent can retract their kicking leg. Their equilibrium will already be off, making your task easier."

Itachi met her eyes, "you have to find the perfect balance between calming your body and releasing a sudden explosion of power. It's about flexibility, elegance, internal power, stamina, and mental sharpness. The sudden shift between the two extremes is key; rather than powering up an attack, allow the action to emulate your breathing; the change from contraction to release."

He paused before continuing, "In essence, your opponent will supply the power by running into your fist or whichever action you choose to take, while you merely supply a conduit between your fist and the unyielding ground. This fighting method is about utter relaxation followed by complete wakefulness. Exhale and loosen your muscles, then inhale and make them firm. Don't focus on any singular point in your body rather, try and think about as little as possible. Perfect concentration involves emptying your mind."

"This is going to be fun," she stated as she nodded, "where did you learn this style of fighting?"

Itachi shrugged, "I primarily had to train myself. I never really had a Sensei or anything to teach me."

He watched as her eyes widened in response before she closed them as a smile formed in place of her momentary disbelief. "I almost forgot. You're a prodigy."

He returned the smile, "prodigy or not, it took a lot of time. No one is an exception from having to work hard to gain prominent ability, which," he tilted his head, "I'm sure you will."

The girl opened her eyes before again nodding, "understood. It requires a lot of hard work and dedication. So," she stretched her arm over her head. "When do we start?"

"We will begin now," Itachi replied with a nod. He then shifted his gaze to the field ahead. "Inhale and relax both your mind and body, exhale and allow your internal and natural energy to release through your focal attack points, such as your fist. Practice this simple process first and allow yourself to grow accustomed to doing it subconsciously."

"So…I'm basically breathing to relax myself?" the girl asked.

"Partly, yes," Itachi nodded, "but when you exhale, force your energy to abruptly awaken."

The Uchiha briefly wondered if there was possibly a simpler way to explain the same thing. However, he was determined to remain patient with the girl and provide her with as much guidance as she needed.

His eyes slightly widened however, when Sakura suddenly lowered herself into a sitting position within the long grass. "Can I do this sitting down?"

Sighing, the Uchiha knelt beside her. "It's not the most effective way, as you will not be fighting many opponents in this manner. Your muscles are all in a constant state of relaxation while sitting and so it defeats the entire purpose of the exercise."

The girl's eyes widened in recognition before she stood and exclaimed, "I get it now! Good job, Sensei."

Itachi rose to stand beside her, "this does bring up a good point though. When you sat, you undoubtedly felt your body assume a state of stillness. When you stood, you felt your body suddenly tense, correct? It automatically applied the needed strain to lift you."

"And that's what I'm trying to make myself do?" she asked, tilting her head contemplatively. "Automatically apply the proper balance of calmness and force through my breathing."

"Aa," he nodded with a small smile. "That is exactly right, Sakura-san."

A grin crossed her features, "thank you, Itachi. I think I can do it now."

"No thanks needed," he replied before shifting and focusing his attention forward. "Now then, inhale," he demonstrated and again found himself acutely aware of how liberated his lungs felt with the absence of the illness that had plagued him. Lifting a hand he thrust it forward as he breathed out, "exhale and envision the attack."

Lowering his arm, he cast Sakura a sidelong glance, "your turn."

"Perfect," she stated before he watched her turn and ease her posture.

The girl's eyes closed and he observed her slow intake of breath, which was soon followed by an abrupt release. The process continued several times and Itachi did not avert his gaze as he noted that her expression was becoming calmer and less animated with each set of breaths. Her eyes opened, set on some conjured target as her arm lifted. Another moment ensued before she then thrust her arm forward upon an exhale.

Sakura shifted back into a comfortable position before looking to him with a smile. "Bulls-eye!"

Itachi blinked as she suddenly lifted her eyes to his. It had honestly caught him off guard for some reason and he berated himself for allowing such a thing to happen. He exhaled the breath he did not realize he had been holding before directing his gaze away and to the horizon before him. And I just told her earlier how foolish it is to allow oneself to become distracted.

"Well done, Sakura-san," he stated simply.

"Thank you," he heard her say. "I thought I did well myself." There was a brief silence before he felt a tug on the sleeve of his cloak. "Are you alright?"

Itachi was motionless another moment before allowing his eyes to shift and observe the girl's anxious expression. He permitted a small answering smile, "Aa."

Sakura's brows furrowed in response, "It didn't seem like it."

"Oh?" he tilted his head slightly.

"Yes," The girl continued without a hint of skepticism.

Itachi subtly lowered his eyes, wondering himself what exactly had come over him. It was certainly…unfamiliar. He softly sighed before shaking his head as he returned his gaze to her. "In any case, I'm fine now. I was just…thinking."

He then turned and looked in the direction of their make-shift camp. "Let's have some breakfast and then continue our journey. You can train some more along the way."

"Sounds good to me," she began with a nod. "You know, I think I found out what type of teacher you are."

Itachi glanced back at her, "have you?"

"Yes," another bright grin spread across her face. "You're the cool and relaxing kind. Also, very patient."

'Nii-san,' Sasuke's voice again greeted him, instilling visions of many warm afternoons spent helping the boy develop his skills. 'You really are the best kind of teacher.'

Returning her smile, Itachi tilted his head slightly. "And I'm sure you will be one of my finest students."

"Do you really think so?" the girl asked him excitedly, smile widening.

"Aa," he replied. "I do."

"Hmm," she replied before tapping his shoulder.

Itachi looked to her questioningly, "yes?"

He found he still could not seem to even remotely predict what her responses would be. It was both slightly frustrating and strangely compelling. It was somewhat entertaining to hear something entirely unexpected from her as he had been around nothing but the predictable his entire life.

"I think I confirmed it with today's lesson, Itachi," the girl proclaimed.

The question in his gaze remained, "what exactly was it that you confirmed?"

There was brief pause before she offered her clarification with another smile. "That you're the best kind of teacher."

Itachi's expression softened as the inquiry within his scrutiny was replaced with a recollection of his conversation with her the previous night. Sasuke had proclaimed as much to him on countless occasions and hearing her say the exact same words only enhanced his memory concerning those bygone events of his past. It served to remind him how happy he had been back then. Both he, and Sasuke.

He offered her a grateful smile, "I've certainly missed hearing it."

"You have?" She asked before placing a hand firmly upon his shoulder, "Very well. Whenever we train, I shall say it so much that you'll eventually grow tired of hearing it."

Itachi allowed for a soft laugh, "We'll see."

"And," she smirked. "I think I'm going to try making you laugh more."

It was not a difficult feat within her presence as she had already succeeded in making him laugh more than he ever had in the last eight years. He nodded, "I have no doubt of your success."

"Don't make it too easy, though," she admonished.

Itachi offered her another nod, "no worries. I don't plan to."

"That's good to know," she replied before her stomach suddenly betrayed her hunger. "What was that you said about breakfast?"

Itachi tilted his head, amused before facing the tree and taking a step forward, "come along then, Sakura-san."

He heard her steps from behind him, "can you hurry up, snail? I doubt I'm the only one who's hungry here."

Itachi allowed his eyes to shift in her direction and saw that her arms were wrapped tightly about her torso. He quickened his steps, "acknowledged."

There certainly was not anything preventing the girl to simply rush past him, as he reasoned it was an entirely plausible action for her to take.

"Thank you," he heard her say as he reverted his attention forward. "That's much better."

"Hmm," Itachi replied softly.

"What are we going to eat anyway?" the girl continued.

"Well," Itachi replied as they neared their destination. "We have some crackers and dried fruit." He shrugged, "not much but enough to get by."

She allowed for an audible groan of indignation in response. "That's what they always say. Then guess what? Someone dies."

Itachi openly allowed his brows to crease as he looked over at her, "that's a rather dramatic way of putting it, don't you think?"

He sincerely wondered what exactly had prompted such a statement from the girl.

Sakura merely shrugged in response, "maybe, but it's still not that much. Just picture this: we eat some for breakfast today. Let's say we only eat breakfast, then with this sickness going around, we can't trust any of the food we find from now on to be edible. That only leaves us with the few packages of crackers and dried fruit that we have. My main point is what do we do when we eat all of it?"

The Uchiha sighed in response, "if it comes down to us being at risk of starvation, We will simply return to Churitsu to purchase more."

"Oh," she responded. "That's a very smart idea."

Itachi nodded and gently smirked, "a stroke of genius, I'd say."

"Okay, Itachi," Sakura began. "What do you want to be referred to as? A prodigy or a genius? I'm not letting you have both," an emulating smirk crossed her face then.

Itachi paused in his steps and looked to her. Though it was blatantly conveyed that she was merely teasing, he answered sincerely. "Neither, actually."

She stopped beside him as well before smiling, "Alright, then. From now on, you're just Itachi to me."

Itachi smiled down at her, that warmth she always carried somehow seeping through to him. "I wouldn't prefer anything else."

The leaves of the tree above rustled within the breeze that surrounded the entire field. The more Itachi thought on it, the more he realized that his eroding defenses had less to do with the landscape of Yokusei as it did with the actual presence of the girl before him; an unnerving yet inexplicably welcome occurrence.

Sakura nodded before venturing to their small camp at the base of the tree, "Itachi, come along," she glanced over her shoulder. "Don't waste time standing around. I'm not going to eat without you."

Itachi followed her lead with a nod of his own, "Your consideration is appreciated, Sakura-san."

He stopped and knelt beside the small fire he had created before lifting the kettle and looking up at her, "care for some more tea?"

With a shake of her head, the girl smiled. "I would love some, Itachi."

A/N: I would like to credit two individuals that I used direct quotes from during Itachi's explanation of his Taijutsu fighting method to Sakura: William C.C. Chen & Sifu Wong. I am entirely indebted to both for the inspiration!