Author's Notes: Neji and Tenten discuss Sasuke.
Ascending to Purgatory
Neji understands the nuisances of power, he has plenty of it and knows there could be more. Tenten, having been around him most of his life, comprehends it as well, including the deeper strength of pure determination. Therefore, they are leery of Uchiha Sasuke, who has both power and a hunger that gives him no limitations.
"Ambition can be evil," Tenten muses quietly. "What is it they say? 'The road to Hell is paved with good intentions'?" She takes a sip of her water and Neji refills it when she sets it back down. It's a hot day and he figures he owes her for the last six hours of training.
"He loves nothing, protects nothing. Power is his only goal."
Tenten glances at him. "Pretends to love nothing, I think. Denial is the only way he can go forward. If he loves, if he cares, he'll realize that there are other things besides power."
Neji leans forward and takes the glass from her hand, draining it. "Ambition is a lonely road."
His teammate smiles. "Only if you want it to be."
The End.