Sakura's Inner

Tea Time

This story is dedicated to @JessKnitz ❤️

(Sorry in advance for not having a lot of sasusaku)

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The setting sun painted the sky in hues of amber and rose, its warm light filtering through the dense canopy of Konoha's forests. Team 7, weary from their latest mission, trudged along the well-worn path leading back to their village. The air was thick with the day's lingering heat and the earthy scent of the woods.

Kakashi, ever-observant, noticed the fatigue weighing on his young charges. His visible eye crinkled with a hint of mischief as he spotted a quaint structure nestled among the trees ahead.

"How about we take a breather?" he suggested, gesturing towards the building. "That teahouse looks like the perfect spot for a well-deserved break."

Naruto's eyes lit up instantly, his boundless energy seemingly replenished at the mere mention of rest. "Alright! I'm so hungry I could eat a whole ramen shop!"

Sasuke, true to form, remained stoic. But the slight relaxation in his posture betrayed his relief at the prospect of a moment's respite.

Sakura followed behind, her gaze fixed on the path. She was exhausted but welcomed the chance to recharge.

The teahouse was a haven of tranquility. Soft lantern light cast a warm glow over worn wooden tables, and the air was perfumed with the subtle aroma of herbs and spices. An elderly woman, her face creased with laugh lines, greeted them with a knowing smile.

"Ah, young shinobi," she crooned, ushering them to a table by the window. "You look like you could use our special brew. It's said to soothe the soul and awaken the spirit."

Kakashi's eyebrow arched with interest. "That sounds perfect. Four cups, please."

As the team settled in, the teahouse matron returned with a steaming pot and four delicate cups. The liquid within shimmered with an otherworldly radiance, catching the light in a mesmerizing dance of color.

Sakura lifted her cup, inhaling deeply. The scent was intoxicating—a complex bouquet of jasmine, ginger, and something undefinable. It reminded her of moonlit forests and hidden mysteries.

"It smells amazing!" she exclaimed, her excitement evident.

Naruto, never one for patience, gulped down his tea in one go. His eyes widened in surprise. "Whoa! It's like... like... I can taste colors!"

Kakashi sipped his tea with deliberate slowness, his mask somehow remaining in place. "Fascinating," he murmured, more to himself than the others.

Sasuke, ever cautious, took a small sip. His usually impassive face flickered with a moment of surprise before settling back into its customary mask of indifference.

As Sakura savored her tea, she felt a warmth spreading through her body. It started in her chest, a subtle, comforting glow. The sensation flowed through her veins, easing her fatigue and bringing a gentle buzz of energy.

And then, she heard it. A voice she knew all too well, but stronger and clearer than ever before.

"It's about time you let me out, girl!" Inner Sakura's voice resonated within her mind.

Sakura blinked, nearly spilling her tea. Her teammates turned to her, concern evident in their expressions.

"Sakura? Are you alright?" Kakashi asked, his tone carefully neutral.