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I squinted, although I could see just fine with my cognizant Sharingan, mostly at the fact of her distance. 15 meters? Interesting choice of space between us; so apparently this young Kunoichi had no fear of engaging in a close combat battle. A Shunshin brought me within steps of her location in a split second and her reaction would almost be anticipated through the perception of my crimson optics. I encountered forwards with fluid movement, carefully addressing a valuable step to confirm no time was wasted. The single step only brought forth the upper kick that would clench my adversaries face, sending her into a spiral upwards with discouraging power.

Her reaction, if capable, was to be countered. My Sharingan was interpreting her body language with analytical intensity; for she was being read like a book in this proximity.

If it succeeded to produce results as intended, my body would enter a mimicking ascension with the girl landing precisely within her blind spot. A goken spectacular, the shadow of the dancing leaf, would enable pinpoint accuracy of where to position myself in the most advantageous spot. Proceeding such serene but yet accelerated movements would entail a deliberate kick to to her face which occupied substantial power in its fashion. Her inability to defend herself would prove a proficient obstacle; but the damage that was administered would be even more so. She would collide with the unforgiving earth while I landed with grace, unscathed under the positive exchange.

I sighed. I suppose I conveyed myself as a friend to this boy, but unfortunately for him... I was not. I was utilizing him, that was the truth. I did have confidence in his potential, for one day he could be great but until he achieved greatness he was nothing more than a stepping stone. I was only here to stay if he proved worth my time. I was being misconstrued as a kindhearted man, but in essence, I was nothing of the sort. I do not feel for this kids childish pain, whatever it may be, for I assure you I have felt the equivalent at some point. The thing about me was that my definition of a friend was a temporary asset; a benefactor of some sort. So yes, this child was my friend.

I chuckled affably, but with a hint of carelessness.

"Heh... Look kid. Uhh– how can I put this gently. Well I can't. I'm not who you think I can or am going to be. We're going to be partners on this mission, not mentor and apprentice, or friends. I'm taking you on this mission for the sake of our Nation, not for your sake. If you hold me back then; well... you're only cumbersome to my Mission and therefore prove worthless in my eyes. The only way I will respect you and remotely care about your thoughts and feelings is if you demonstrate an adequate sense of skill. Don't take this offensively, either –And don't cry!"

Feelings were better kept inside. It molded, tough, disciplined character. I discerned the qualitative aspect of courage this boy attained, it was what gave the prospect of my keen eye on him. He had a glimmer to him that few had in these times, but this could all be a misconception on my part. I suppose this mission was a testament to his skill and worth. If he deemed a credible investment, possibly I would install copious amounts of time into his welfare as a shinobi. But if he proved anything otherwise, I would turf him on the side of the road, never to have any affiliation with him again. Cruel? Indefinitely. It is who I am. If you're not with me, you are against me.

"But before we go on this mission, I have some business to take care of. It may take some time, so work on your skills... this mission will require you to be capable, so prepare yourself accordingly. I will find you when I am ready, you have my word. My word is unfaltering; so trust on it."

And his inquiry about my eyes? Well, I suppose I could respond with a dose of reality about my culture; but that would be postponed on a later date.

"Unfortunately my boy, it is not possible. The Sharingan is a fabled legend equipped with a tragedy near equivalent to the destruction we live in today. If you are interested, ask me again when we embark upon our up and coming endeavor. Until then, train with perseverance. For when I return, I hope to find you no longer a boy, but the valiantly courageous man I see uprising within you. Yoshio, you have great potential... do not fail yourself!"

His crying was incessant, but it was indicative of an underlying problem. Something personal was affecting him greatly, as I rest assured that my actions had not scarred his ego this severely. I cried when I was a boy, but my days are aged and in the lapse of time from then until now, I have managed to forget the sensation of crying like such the manner this boy –Yoshio –was exhibiting. Fortunately, his crying was not the outburst of screaming and wailing like a child: the only reason I determined he was crying was from the tears he shed. I too, shed a tear recently; a single tear for my nation upon the moment my eyes first witnessed the destruction, but that was it. I learned from my Father that emotion softened the soul, made you vulnerable in times of hardship. I refrained from emotion and made it my virtue to continue to do so. However, I was unlike Yoshio; for I was not holding in my sorrow –I simply did not have any.

"Think nothing of it; rage is only human. Learning to control your rage is a true work of art very few have mastered. But when achieved, coupled with it comes wisdom beyond your years."