Line 4: Moral Precepts
I fear no fate (for you are my fate,my sweet)
I Carry Your Heart
Line 5, Stanza 2
-By E.E. Cummings
It's too cold for anyone to enjoy the waterfalls on the peripherals of Konoha's forest even if the cold has yet to freeze the natural phenomenon. Situated against mossy cliffs between an impasse, this particular formation of nature is thunderous and imposing, taking over the stretch of hillside. Despite the loud crashing against the rocks and the river below, the water flows peacefully. Cascades deposit into the stream then floats lazily towards the ocean.
Standing on a neighboring cliff across from the scene of earth's most elegant displays, Itachi feels at ease. Able to behold it but far enough away that it only reaches him in mist. The juxtaposition of calm and wild, still and rushing waters dance together, gracious enough and loud enough to drown his own thoughts.
It smells heavily of minerals and earth, of life and energy. Energy that he wishes to harness. He takes a breathe, filling his lungs with the fresh revitalizing breeze of nature. He takes measured steps over the frozen grass. Even with his heavy cloak, a chill breezes against his neck. He tucks his chin deeper inside the high collar, gaze fixed at nothing.
The area is notably barren of human life, save the lone former shinobi tethering near the cliff's edge. Perhaps fate is willing to show him kindness today. The Anbu tasked as his watchmen has accompanied him on this journey before. After the last fiasco at his home, Kakashi seems to be more cautious with who is allowed to stand guard in Sakura's stead. Weasel is a calm man, tall and lean in stature but no less formidable. The Anbu had walked a respectable distance behind Itachi their entire journey. When he veered towards the forest, the man slowed even more. Not that Itachi needs permission to be himself, but some intimacies call for greater levels of privacy. On the first of many trips, Weasel had not known the significance of this place. When they approached the base of the forest, Itachi simply stated his terms.
"I require privacy." He'd said.
Weasel regarded him stoically. Seconds later, he'd taken to the trees, perched on a branch and seemingly ignoring him. Itachi nodded to the gesture and ventured further towards the falls.
As is their tradition, Weasel is the only human within miles of him. Waiting patiently in that same trees. The man is close enough to stop any maleficent behavior but far enough that every action can't be heard or seen.
The Uchiha watches the water flow into the stream below between the mountain pass. The drop is steep and unforgiven, though the stream moves leisurely the further away it is from the rapids. Years ago, he stood in this very spot, next to his closest ally. A promise was made. A vow was given. Shisui jumped. Itachi closed his eyes and listened for the sound of the body making impact.
Helpless but understanding. Grieved but determined. Itachi had every intention of keeping his promise to Shisui.
I have done that and more.
He stares impassively below, waiting and wondering at which point he will no longer be standing alone.
The more rational part of him rages against the insanity of his actions. It doesn't make sense but Itachi simply cannot shake his bond to the dead. After all, he was once in such a state. Kakashi may have pondered the days and months and years left to him, but the Uchiha wrestles with a more supernatural dilemma. His connection to the netherworld hasn't been quite severed and every once in awhile he finds himself drawn to this place.
Some will say his actions are positively asinine. Itachi would agree with them to a point. Even now he attempts to placate his reason and ease the unsettled nature of his emotion. But there are very few who understand the restlessness of a revived resolved soul.
Itachi blinks at the shift in the wind. A picture of calm, he holds his uncertainty close to his chest. Nearing the end of a five year long probationary period, for the second time he's been presented with a new life.
For the second time he is unsure how to proceed.
What is life to one who has lived and received judgement? My life left my hands with Sasuke. What I have now is the aftermath of village desperate for a solution.
Itachi frowns at the glaring juxtaposition of his life and moral consequences.
I ended my life on my terms, can I now live it the same? Morally I cannot. This...life is not mine to live. I received the judgement for the actions I choose. Everything after that is not for me to decide. No. The ending and the beginning both require the same response. I am indebted to Sakura and Konoha. My duty of gratitude to one will disregard my duty to the other...
"Do I deny the village what it has resurrected me for? Or do I refuse for Sakura's sake?"
Frustration narrows his eyes. Itachi clenches his jaws against swirling emotions.
Who takes precedent? Himself? The Village? Sakura? How is he supposed to choose? Does he have the right to choose?
Shisui. Itachi mentally calls. I am lost, Shisui.
He is in need of reason regardless of if his method has any basis in reality. Escaping reality will aid his current pursuits, as reality has no bearing on what he is trying to do. In fact, it is a hindrance. So he waits in silence, knowing full well what will happen if he is patient.
Time is lost to him. Itachi stares into the expanse until his fingers go numb. His cloak is damp from the mist, seeping through to his layer of clothes underneath. Yet, in that time, nothing happened.
The faintest hint of annoyance creases his brows. Itachi blinks away droplets on his eyelid.
Will you refuse me? He mentally questions.
When he gets no response, his fingers flex, tight and stiff as they weather the cold. He gives himself more time and traces the sunrise. As the sky turns from dark blue to light gray, he gives.
"There is no point," Itachi mutters, closing his eyes in acceptance and bowing his head slightly.
He turns on his heels, back to the falls, walking away. It's not the first time he's been rebuffed. It is not the first time his mind has failed him. The inconvenience of it all is irksome but he will not rebel against it.
Perhaps my lack of clarity is the hindrance. I cannot think!
Itachi walks away for the moment, vowing to try again later in the day. As he turns, the mist tickles at his uncloaked ankles, circling unnaturally so with every step. Itachi ignores the tug. Once he's close enough to the treeline to disappear into the forest, the mist crawls up his back, covers his shoulders and brushes against his cheek.
Immediately he pulls to a halt as the caress is far too gentle to be that of whom he was expecting to meet here.
Soft to the touch. Beckoning and seemingly apologetic, the misty fog hangs over him, smelling faintly of jasmine and oranges.
"Where is Shisui?" Itachi softly questions.
"Who knows with him, probably sleeping." Izumi's voice is as light and airy as the mist circling his back.
Itachi withholds a sigh, refusing to turn around and meet her.
In measured tones is asks, "Why did he send you?"
"You sent for me, Itachi-kun. Because...ummmm," Izumi pauses. The mist dances over him curiously, "You needed a second opinion."
Itachi considers the response. Dishonesty is pointless. Lying to Izumi more so as she can always read him.
"This situation doesn't concern you, Izumi."
"I could help!" The mist exclaims, huffing and binding in indignation.
"Get me Shisui." Itachi challenges.
"Why?" she counters.
Itachi offers half his shoulder and a slight tilt of his head in the direction of the voice.
"This is a matter of Clan affairs. Can you provide insight?"
"Yea," Izumi quips, "My insight is that you're a stick in the mud."
He huffs, unamused, prepared to walk away.
"And," Izumi stresses, softer this time. "It's okay, Itachi. It's okay to change. None of us will fault you for it."
"I have no issue with change," he rebels, "Should I choose to rebuild the clan, my desire has always been to change its previous state of affairs."
Izumi's voice turns inquisitive, challenging almost in how she responds. "Then why come here seeking counsel? You have a plan."
Itachi's fist tighten but his expression holds. "That plan is, was, for another time."
"But this is your time now." Izumi reasons.
She pauses. The mist teases at his cheeks. Itachi's eyes slip shut and he turns away. Izumi pulls back, whispering in his ear.
"...yet, this thought fills you with such sadness. Why, Itachi?"
Itachi denies nothing, laying out his true thoughts in three simple words.
"I am alive."
Izumi nods. "An enviable state for someone like me. I don't see why that is a problem."
Itachi nods once in understanding and explains, quoting himself. "Those who turn their hands against their comrades are sure to die a terrible death. This is my virtue. This was my life. I lived to die. And yet…"
Izumi peacefully hums. "You live!"
The words offer no comfort. Itachi shakes his head. "My decisions should have led to the end I had. I've been given something undeserved and now the two clash."
"A crisis of loyalty." Izumi agrees. "Do you feel guilty or are you afraid?"
Itachi growls low in his chest. "I have done nothing to warrant second chances. But there is expectation...from both of them."
Much to his surprise, Izumi holds him tighter, wrapping him in unnatural warmth. "That's not true! Your sacrifices speak for themselves. You've done everything."
He holds still, allowing himself to feel her feelings of unwavering conviction. Her words may only be true for the moment but Itachi relaxes in the otherworldly nature of her touch just for a second.
Before he can contest or confirm, the mist recedes quickly taking what little sympathy it had with it. Weasel appears through the foliage, stopping several feet away.
"Nara-sama requests your presence." he announces.
Itachi shivers and pulls all of his emotions back into tight coils. Guilt or fear? He doesn't know but that can wait for another day. He strolls pass the Anbu, face a mask and tone void of inflection or any particular feeling.
"The Hokage Tower?"
Weasel denies. "At his residence, Uchiha-san."
An odd choice as Itachi has always assumed Shikamaru detested morning meetings. However, upon arriving at the Nara household, evidence to the contrary exist. Temari greets him at the door, aware of his invitation. She doesn't waste time with pleasantries, escorting him to a sitting area that opens to a screened in porch.
"Do you have a preference for tea?" she asks.
Itachi scans the set-up outside then turns to her. "Oolong will suffice, thank you."
Temari nods.
"Pick a side," she informs, "Shikamaru is just finishing morning stretches with Shikadai. He'll be down in a few minutes."
The conversation is over just as quickly as it starts. There is always an air of no nonsense with the former Suna kunochi. It is something Itachi can appreciate. He nods at her departure then turns his gaze back to the Shogi table set up on the porch.
There's a portable burner set up just behind them on the porch. Although they are technically outside, the burner keeps the space just as warm as inside while allowing for occasion winter breezes to flow through the screen. The cushions opposite the board game are surrounded by soft furs, another layer of warmth. If he had not known of Shikamaru's love for shogi, he would have thought the display a pompous display. Even the board smelled of freshly polished wood, glistening in the minimal morning light.
Itachi settles on the cushion closes to him. The burner is nice considering his clothes are still slightly damp from the falls.
Temari returns a minute later with a serving tray, a kettle and two cups. She sits the tray nearer the entrance, leaves then returns with another burner, smaller this time and places the still hot kettle on top.
"Thanks, Temari." Shikamaru announces his presence and slips by to join Itachi on the porch.
Temari stands after arranging everything. "Where's Shikadai?"
"Waiting in the living room. What's the tea?"
"Oolong," Temari nods her head in Itachi's direction. "Guest's choice."
Shikamaru hums and takes a seat opposite Itachi. "A good choice," he admits.
Temari finishes up and takes her leave.
Shikamaru takes the lead, pouring both of them a cup before handing it off to Itachi, who accepts.
"I didn't think I'd find you up." The Clan head explains.
Itachi inclines his head. "Likewise."
He snorts and then yawns. "Temari's a stickler for having Shikadai do morning stretches before training."
"He trains with his mother?"
Shikamaru takes a sip of tea. "These days, yeah. He's too young to start learning Shadow Paralysis Jutsu. Wind style is easier and can be modified for a toddler. Besides, it's a mother/son bonding thing or something like that I was told."
"Hnn."
They sip tea, letting the activity replace conversation. The hum of the burners fill the space. Itachi sips slow, eyes closed, listening and waiting. It's not like Shikamaru to invite him to his home. They have shared cups of tea together. It is easy to lapse into silence with the younger shinobi. The change of scenery from tea houses and official government meeting spaces is not unwelcomed.
When the first cup of tea is finished, Shikamaru seems more awake. He pours another, refilling Itachi's as well then removes game pieces from a compartment hidden in the side of the board.
"Are you familiar with the rules?" Shikamaru asks, glancing curiously at him.
"I have played several times before."
"Good," Shikamaru states. "It's hard to find people that aren't over 50 willing to play. Harder to find any that present a challenge."
Itachi tilts his head inquisitively. "Are you hoping for one?"
Shikamaru glances at him, one brown quirks in question. "I'm not exactly trying to be bored."
Not willing to disappoint, Itachi accepts. "I have no intentions of being bored either. I assume you will use your wit to attempt a win?"
Shikamaru lets out a breathy grunt and resumes setting up the board. As he does, he gets to the heart of their meeting.
"Besides," he says, "If we're going to talk business, may as well make it easier on both of us."
Itachi sits his cup aside. "I agree."
"Rumors of Sakura's furlough are spreading fast across the village." Shikamaru hedges.
"I never suspected you a gossiper, Nara-san."
The young man glowers and grunts then shakes his head, adding more pieces. "I have an old teammate with the propensity for it. That teammate happens to be your wife's best friend. You wanna try telling Ino to keep her mouth shut?"
When Itachi refuses a response, Shikamaru continues.
"I guess it can't be helped. In her own way, Ino worries. Sakura's been working herself ragged lately. Not only at the hospital but Temari tells me she's been trying to get some reforms going with displaced and orphaned children."
Itachi narrows his gaze curiously. "Reforms?"
"Yeah," Shikamaru drawls and pulls himself up from his slightly hunched position. "She came to Temari about a month ago with a draft proposal for Kakashi. They worked through some kinks together before Temari sent her on her way. I don't know the details but any reform is bound to be messy. Top that with missions and hospital duty and Sakura's on a collision course to burn-out."
"I was unaware that she carried so many duties. Sakura is not so forthcoming when things become stressful. Your concern for your friend is admirable."
It's Shikamaru's turn to shrug and scratch behind his ear. "Yeah, well, you'd know more than any of us the type of stress she's under. I can't imagine how it's affecting you as her partner."
Itachi stares blankly, neither confirming nor denying the allegations that he is in duress because of Sakura. Shikamaru doesn't seem perturbed by his lack of conversation. He carries it himself, getting to the point.
"This is such a drag but I want to do my best to help alleviate some of that stress by explaining our intentions with the Uchiha Compound. I'm hoping this'll help sway your decision our favor."
So this is his intention. Itachi thinks. The barest trace of smirk curves the edge of his lips. He looks to the game. How befitting. A wise choice, Shikamaru.
The other man makes the first move of the game. Itachi braces an elbow on one of his knees, tucking his knuckles under his chin, relaxed and posed for discussion.
"You have my attention, Shikamaru." Itachi answers, turns up his palm and gestures openly, "What is your proposition?"
The young man lets out an airy chuckle, crossing his arms over his chest as he eyes the board. "My father died during the Fourth Shinobi War. So did Ino's father and a number of other comrades. We honor them with graves and stones, monuments to the fallen."
"This does not satisfy you?" Itachi questions, moving his desired piece and ending his turn.
"How often do you think people visit the Memorial Stone?" Shikamaru challenges.
I see. Itachi thinks. "Shinobi frequent the stone. The Hokage is known to venture there several times a month. Those that have fallen in battle are not so easily forgotten."
Shikamaru quickly makes a move then shakes his head. "Fallen shinobi is not the story of just shinobi. It is the story of Konohagakure. The cycle of life and death is one of the many ways things evolve and change. When one is born another leaves."
"Death is evitable." Itachi supplies.
"Yeah and necessary. We learn from dead. The Nara Clan has made its own shrine for our fallen comrades but I feel that this is something that should be shared with the village."
The Uchiha hums, eyes low and focused on the game before him. He gets where Shikamaru is coming from, but his persuasion skills are severely lacking.
These are all things Kakashi has told me.
He half expected the man to come up with something that would force his hand. At least it would make the choice easier. But Shikamaru's point is merely a restatement from a personal perspective and hasn't touched on the real reason for his hesitation.
A celebration of death is one thing. I am not against this. Will the people understand why some had to die? Sacrifice is often misunderstood, Shikamaru. Will they see such a place of sacrifice as sacred as you and Kakashi? I have my doubts….
Itachi adds a piece to the board then goes for tea while Shikamaru concentrates.
A pieces moves.
Itachi responds.
Shikamaru counters.
More tea is sipped.
They go like this for several minutes before Itachi offers a boon.
"Did the Hokage tell you why I am hesitant?" Itachi inquires.
Shikamaru shifts a wooden piece sideways. "Let's just say you haven't passed the popularity contest."
"Partitally," the Uchiha supplies. "The history of the place that you want to use is not one that most would find honorable. Your intentions as well as the Hokage's is admirable. I do not believe the rest of the population will agree with choice, however."
Shikamaru chuckles. "I didn't think so either. Look, I'm not expecting shinobi to be all over the idea. But civilians? Most of them only know you as a hero. I'm making this proposal with them in mind anyway. History is only going to repeat if it isn't told. Plus, the location is perfect."
Itachi cannot withhold a small snort. "It is nearly on the outskirts of the village."
"For now."
Itachi raises a brow. "There are plans to expand the village?"
"The village will do that on it's own. Peace usually equates to babies."
Both men hum in agreement.
"In any case," Shikamaru continues. "The Museum will be at a location that's easily accessible with room to expand. The hope is to get more cultural centers up around the village. That's a conversation for another time. Aside from having a physical place to visit and learn, it will help you as well."
"What makes you think I am in need of help?" Itachi counters.
Shikamaru laughs and scratches the back of his head. "Sakura may be your wife but your standing with a lot of the shinobi haven't changed. The truth is that they don't trust you. No offense, but from your track record, can you blame them? Turning the old Uchiha Compound into something for the village and you offering yourself to care for it, is a sign of loyalty. You may not be in it for the popularity but it would make missions easier should you need to go with a team."
Itachi looks up from the board, into Shikamaru's face. "Loyalty, comradery and commemoration, this is what you propose to me?"
Shikamaru returns his gaze, looking quite serious and resolved.
"It sounds trite," the young man admits. "Half of the stuff I doubt you care about. But if the rumors about you are true if…"
Shikamaru pauses, huffing in obvious frustration as he rubbed his chin. "Naruto says a lot of good things about you. Years ago I would be the first person to call him an idiot. He is still an idiot...but he's good at reading people. He's convinced that your first priority has been protecting the Village. I guess, if taken at face value, your hesitation kind of speaks to that. If you were really after your power and glory as the rumors say, why fight this so hard?"
"That is a fair assessment." Itachi contends.
"Protection doesn't always look like a fight or a great sacrifice. Sometimes it's far simpler than that. So my proposition is to you as a former Konoha shinobi. There's no guarantee that a physical location will make people any more or any less inclined to be the next Madara or Obito. In fact, I'm sure it won't. But it might be enough to encourage people to put a stop to it before it starts."
When he finished his spill, Shikamaru makes a move leaving Itachi with an overwhelming sense of compassion and duty. For the man's appeal beckons to him on the most basic level of being a shinobi. Personally, and perhaps unknowingly playing on his desire for peace and pacifism. Itachi is a firm believer in pre-emptive actions. Something as simple as a museum couldn't on its own stop a war but it could put an end to many a wayward ambitions.
There is no guarantee but there never is in any mission. We act in hopes that the results will be peace.
Itachi's heard similar words before and perhaps that's why his consciousness sounds achingly like Shisui.
Protect this village. Honor the Uchiha name.
Itachi represses a huff and tilts his head towards the ceiling above. Where were you this morning? He questions his thoughts but there is no response, again.
Honor the Uchiha name. His lips dip into a frown. I did as we agreed. Now I must decide how to do that again only this time you are not here to guide me.
Just as quickly as one voice plays in his head another comes back hauntingly sweet.
Do you feel guilty or are you afraid?
Itachi toys with the feelings, and dismisses them just as quickly. Izumi has always been good at unraveling him.
Even in death you are my undoing.
Pale fingers flex in the sunlight. Itachi watches as rain clouds roll pass, remembering things that happened and things that didn't.
Izumi.
Very few knew of his regard towards her. Even fewer knew of his greater intention, an ambition set aside for the good Konoha. He'd given her everything that he could before ultimately letting her go. Itachi had no need for such things anymore. His fate had been sealed. He'd resigned himself to death at Sasuke's hands. This was his resolve. He was Itachi of the Hidden Leaf. His devotion to the Hidden Leaf. He died for the Hidden Leaf and in doing so hoping to repair the Uchiha name. There was no room for marriage or legacy. His legacy was to be whatever Sasuke made it. But now...
What is my resolve now?
Five years of life and the only thing Itachi has done is what he has been told to do. Because he'd done everything in his previous life. He had no other ambitions afterwards. He had no expectation or thought or imagination or anything contrary to what he'd resolved.
What is my resolve now?
The truth is that he has none. People don't come back from the dead. Most people die with regrets but Itachi perished only wishing for more time to explain things to Sasuke. But Sasuke is dead.
What else is there for me than duty? My dedication has always been to Konoha. The museum is no different. I must do what is in the best interest of the village and those who reside in it.
Shikamaru clears his throat, pulling Itachi from his bout of nostalgia. He brings himself back to this reality, looking at the man before him. His previous destiny set him up as leader of the clan. His father trained him on how these matters should be done.
Itachi extends his right hand, palm sideways before Shikamaru. The other's reaction is natural, extending his arm as well. They grab forearms, a common gesture of agreement between Clan heads.
"I've heard your petition, Shikamaru." he declares. "I will do what is in the best interest of me as a shinobi to the Leaf."
His words seem to be enough. It is not a promise to do exactly as he was asked. But the vow to protect Konoha remains true. There current bond a sign of good faith and trust. Shikamaru seems to understand, nodding as they seperate.
"It's your move." Shikamaru informs.
They spend the rest of the time sipping tea and playing shogi, surrounded by furs and portable burners. The day wanes into afternoon and afternoon to early evening, Temari scolds the both of them for not even stopping for food. She offers Itachi to stay for dinner and he accepts, knowing Sakura would not begrudge him. That is, assuming she's decided to return home. As it stands, his wife and partner has yet to address him about the issue. So he accepts the offer and spends his evening with spicy food, tea and the amusement of watching Temari and Shikamaru navigate life. They send him off with a care package from Temari and a request to play shogi again from Shikamaru.
By morning, Itachi awakes to rainfall and pellets of hailstones. Rolling from bed, he goes to the bedroom window. It's still dark and quite early in the morning. About this time he would get ready for training but training in a hailstorm would be foolish. Venturing outside in general would be bothersome but the glaring realization that he is lacking food manifest in the distinct rumble in his stomach.
"I didn't go to the market…" Itachi mutters to himself, pulling away from the window pane.
Having spent almost all day with Shikamaru and Temari, the only thing to eat is the dinner from last night.
He snorts on this way to the bathroom. Hardly suitable for breakfast.
Itachi contemplates egg drop soup will going about his morning routine. The rain lets up a little but the whistle of wind promises more severe weather. Itachi prepares the house, adjusting the indoor heating to suit what is sure to be a cozy day of tea and reading.
At the very least he has a plethora of tea to choose from. Food, however, is severely lacking. While he is not exactly excited at the thought of going out in this weather, Itachi dresses warm. Long pants, fitted at the ankles with thick socks and shoes, he matches it with an equally long sleeved dark blue shirt donning the Uchiha crest. Itachi grabs his thickest cloak, lined with wool specifically for harsh winter weather.
He checks the cupboards, noting what is there and what is not. Finally, going to the refrigerator to account for things he can but quickly. A clear vile catches his eye. He emits a disapproving hum, grabbing and holding it up towards the kitchen light.
In her absence, Sakura so kindly left him with several doses of her experimental drug. Clearly not enough to last her staged protest of not coming home. Very little of the liquid is left, probably enough for one shot. And he needs to take two before bedtime.
I overestimated.
He sighs, straightening and sitting the jar on the nearest counter.
"It seems I will be out much longer than I'd hoped," he mutters to himself as he searches for a sterile needles.
Itachi administers the drug with practiced ease and grabs his belongs. Umbrella in hand, he heads towards the hospital. It's unlikely that Sakura will be there. If he has to guess, she is probably at the Yamanaka Flower shop. The rain would prevent any landscaping from happening. Since her furlough includes both, the former is currently her only option. While Itachi is understanding of her annoyance at their possible future mission, they still have a mission now. As part of that, his health needs to be monitored. She may not be around to do it but she is not the only medical profession familiar with his condition. So he saves a confrontation with his wife for another time and crosses the hospital threshold in search of Honoka.
"Honoka-san?" the receptionist questions, holding a clipboard close to her chest.
Itachi nods once, unbuttoning his cloak in the process. The woman pulls the clipboard tighter and narrows her eyes.
"I need to speak with her if she is available."
She looks off a moment. Itachi follows her gaze to a passing shinobi headed towards the elevator. "Do you have an appointment?" she demands.
"No." he answers. "I have never needed one before."
"Honoka-san is a very busy resident. She may not be available."
"I can wait."
She makes a face at him, glancing about once again before looking at her clipboard. Itachi takes note of how she fidgets. He resisted the urge to roll his eyes. Shikamaru said that civilians hail him as a hero. Clearly this woman, a new hospital worker based on her behavior, has heard rumors about him. It's people like her that makes him wonder if Kakashi and Shikamaru have lost touch with reality.
He holds his frustrations, giving her the benefit of the doubt to collect herself. Anyone else would have let him through without a second thought. Since she obviously doesn't know the protocol, Itachi offers assistance.
"Honoka is the assistant to my current acting physician who is unavailable. I need to speak with her for medical reasons."
"Without an appointment?" the woman challenges, flipping pages and scanning for names. The process takes more time than he thinks is necessary but finally she makes eye contact with him.
"Honoka-san is," the woman trails off again, looking down before back to him. "Currently assisting another doctor with a patient in caridolog-hey! Wait! You can't just go there!"
Itachi pauses his strides long enough to look over his shoulder at her. "I am well within my rights to see my acting physician."
"Not when she is with another patient!"
He huffs, feeling the ebbs of frustrating. Not wanting to explain himself but doing so to pacify her, Itachi prepares himself to leave.
"I will wait in cardiology."
"If you keep going, I'll be forced to get security, Uchiha-san."
"Do as you please."
Whether she does or doesn't is of no consequence to him. The Anbu that is his ever present escort did not intervene in the conversation. Itachi dismisses the threat as just that and boards the nearest elevator for Cardiology.
Most staff at the hospital are used to seeing his face. They don't bother him as he moves about, to which Itachi is grateful. His earlier encounter is enough for one day. Thankfully Cardiology is mostly quiet. The halls are relatively empty, save one patient getting in some morning exercise with a night nurse. Itachi walks towards the reception area, passing the two. The older man pays him no mind while the nurse smiled kindly and continues her duty. Itachi nods at the both of them before taking a seat in one of the many empty chairs in the waiting area.
Outside the rain starts up again, banging against the windows and adding life to the otherwise silent room. He closes his eyes to sound, anchoring himself in the moment to slip off into a meditative state.
It lasts for but a moment when his name is called with a hint of curiosity. The person, a male by the sounds of it, approaches cautiously.
"Uchiha-san?" he calls again.
Itachi hums, eyes still closed.
"Are you...waiting for someone? Sakura-sama is not here today…"
"I am waiting for Honoka-san."
"Oh." The man says, pausing a moment before speaking up again. "She's making rounds with patients, I think It shouldn't take too long. Do you want me to let her know you're here?"
"That would help, thank you."
The man hurries off, leaving Itachi to reflect on his own thoughts. It's been a few weeks at least since he and Honoka last spoke. The young woman was unfortunately put between himself and Sakura after his wife confinded herself to her lab. She was unsurprisingly happy to help. The relationship the three of them share is unique. Honoka was Sakura's right hand during his recovery. She plays an important role in his continued health care. For the past five years, she assisted him whenever Sakura was absent. Him coming to her today wouldn't be out of the norm. If anyone knew anything about Sakura's plans for him, it was Honoka.
Itachi losses time amidst the rainfall. He is unsure how long he waits but opens his eyes at the sound of double doors opening and the distinct sigh he's coming to recognize.
"Itachi-san!" Honoka calls, smiling and beckoning him towards her. "Sorry to keep you waiting. Come on back."
He pulls himself to a stand, closing the distance easily, pausing to let her through the doors before him.
"Are you well, Honoka-san?" he asks as they walk.
She chuckles and stretches arms high over head. "As well as I can ever be. Things are busy around here but I'm doing okay. How are you?"
Dark eyes slid her way. Itachi meets her upturned gaze with a nod. "I am well, Honoka-san."
She smiles knowingly. A hint of childish mischief dances in pale blue eyes. "Sakura-san still not speak to you?"
"No," he answers, resigned.
Honoka shakes her head and crosses her arms. "Ah, that's no good. You two need to get it together." she declares with conviction.
"Hn."
"I'm serious," Honoka states, "Here,"
Honoka stops before a door and opens it for him. The conversation pauses as they go inside. Itachi removes his cloak, draping it over a nearby chair, while Honoka sits in the bigger chair reserved for doctors. Preferring to stand, he leans against the door, arms folded knowing that the young woman was not finished her ranting. It only takes a second for her to start up her convictions once more. Itachi can't help his amusement, letting her go on chastesting him.
"I know you said it was nothing but it's obviously something." Honoka muses, rubbing her chin and wrinkled her lightly freckled nose.
Itachi shrugs one shoulder and admits. "I don't pretend to know everything about Sakura. I can't say what I did or did not do."
"Did you ask?"
"I was not given the chance," Itachi admits, "She left and refused conversation. Do you have advice, Honoka-san?"
"Me?" Honoka questions, blinking then blushing, "I'm probably not the best person to ask about...relationships. I work way too much to have anything steady…"
Itachi hums in humor and looks off at the posters on the way. "You take after your mentor in many ways."
"Itachi-san...are you teasing me?"
He contemplates the question a moment before muttering his answer.
"...Perhaps."
"Ugh! Jerk." Honoka declares but the grin on her face shows the lightheartedness of the insult. "Well, if you really want to make up with Sakura-san, just apologize and mean it. Be sincere and honest. Women like that."
He offers her a nod and pushes off the wall. "I will keep that in mind. Perhaps you can assist me in one more thing?"
Blue eyes alight with curiosity. "Yea?"
Itachi reaches inside his cloak and pulls out the empty vile, passing it along to her for inspection.
"Sakura has been working on a drug to help cure my illness. I am currently out and came in the hope of acquiring more."
The brunette hums, turning the bottle as she reads the label. "If this is something Sakura-san made, I wouldn't have direct access to it. It would be her lab but Lady Tsunade has the key to it. Why didn't you just ask Sakura-san to give you more?"
Itachi offers her a flat look, hoping she will catch on. Not surprisingly, she is quick on the uptaking, rolling her eyes at herself.
"Right. Furlough. She doesn't have more at home?"
"That is the last."
Honoka nods. "I'm not...sure what's in this so I can't make it myself. I would offer to get Lady Tsunade but she is in a surgery that's going to take at least another five hours. Can it wait until tomorrow?"
Itachi shakes his head. "I need to take another dose tonight."
"Okay," the young medic trails off, tilting the bottle in several directions, watching the liquid.
Itachi watches her, unsure of what it is that Honoka sees or is looking for. Her method of examining is very similar to Sakura, not surprising considering how long she's been an understudy.
Honoka uncaps it, taking a whiff then narrowing her eyes in concentration. "It's...plant based I think and viscous. I can't get anything else out of it than that."
She groans, and holds the vile close to her eyes "I didn't even know Sakura-san was working on a cure. Did she tell you about the patient we have or had?"
"The young boy? Has his condition worsened?"
"No," Honoka shakes her head, "Lady Tsunade says he is stable enough to go home but needs to be monitored constantly. If this cure works, it could potentially save his life and yours."
She pauses. Itachi watches the slow spread of admiration and awe, the kind of look one gives their teacher or mentor.
"Sakura-san is really amazing, huh," Honoka whispers, "Sometimes I wish I could use chakra like her to do cool things like this…"
Itachi blinks at her words, unsure of where this line of thinking came from. "You are an adequate medic in your own right, Honoka-san. Sakura choose you to assist her in my recover. You have cared for many patients since then."
She smiles shyly at him, glancing in his direction then looking away. "I know. I know. I mean just imagine all of the things I could do if I was a shinobi too. If I had chakra too. It sounds silly maybe but, well, maybe it is silly..."
She trails off in thought leaving Itachi to reason. His gaze slides across her face and over her seated position. Upon first impression, Honoka could be called plain. She doesn't have the slenderly muscular frame of most kunoichi he knows. She didn't fall into the category that Genma so readily called 'curvaceous'. In fact, by comparison she is only slightly less round and plump than Minami. Itachi wonders if this attitude surrounding her physical appearance may have seeped into other areas. An unfortunate conclusion but not impossible. It is the only explanation that comes to mind as he is sure her medical skills speak for itself.
It is unfortunate that you cannot see as much.
As Honoak's face losses it's admiration, telling of unpleasant thoughts, Itachi reaches over and places a hand on her shoulder, hoping to still them.
"Hm?" Honoka blinks upward, looking at him curiously.
"The glory of a matter is often concealed, reserved for only those willing to seek it."
Honoka purses her lips. "The...glory?"
He nods. "If you can see a thing for what it is, Honoka, you can better understand how to use it."
Honoka's lightly freckled nose wrinkles in confusion. "Itachi-san, I don't understand."
"Medicine is more than just chakra and not all patients are shinobi. The art of healing is much deeper than both of these."
"Oh," she whispers, looking away and out at the room. "Itachi-san, are you trying to say I'm needed?"
"Yes."
"Because I don't have chakra?"
"Because medicine is more than just chakra."
"Right...the glory of it and all of that." Honoka huffs then squirms, "I guess you're right. I'm just being silly. Let's figure out how to help you, ok?"
He pulls back, giving her room to stand and stretch, pleased that the light returned to her eyes.
Much better.
"What do you propose, Honoka-san?"
She takes her time with answering, tapping a figure to her lip for several moments.
"Oh!" she exclaimed, turning to him with a bright smile of recognition. "I forgot. Sakura-san keeps a spare key to lab around here somewhere. I don't know where it is though. If she can tell you then I can get the key and get your medicine."
A deep rumble reverbs in his chest. After weeks of noncommunication, it would seem a confrontation with Sakura will be had after all.
"I see…"
A/N: It's been awhile. I sincerely apologize for that. Alas! I have graced you with a relatively short chapter. I was going to included Sakura and Itachi's confrontation but this seemed like a better stopping point. Plus, we get a glimpse into the mind of our second protagonist, a tragically resolved soul unsure of what to make of this new life.
Next chapter will be significantly longer, I promise! Thanks so much guys for sticking with this!
Please leave a comment to let me know what you think! Maybe you have some prompts you want me to use? I'm open to all suggestions!
-CeCe^^
Word Count: 7,200
Musical Inspiration: 'Game of Survival'- Ruelle, 'Shrike'- Hoizer, 'No Plan'- Hoizer