Loyalty (Sasuke Uchiha)

XIX: Sasuke's Strength

I followed behind Genyumaru and Sasuke through the halls of Father's lair since Father had requested me to come, stating it would "improve my mood". Father had already gone on ahead, leaving Sasuke and I alone in his room for a few brief moments.

"You look scared." Sasuke had pointed out. I'm surprised he didn't say anything more.

I reacted by throwing Father's chair across the room, falling to my knees and clutching at my head. I had a pounding migraine, and I felt like I was about to erupt any minute.

He was just as bad, if not worse, as the Akatsuki.

He doesn't even deserve the title of Father anymore.

"Hey. Get up." Sasuke said dryly.

"Sasuke." I said his name through gritted teeth as I felt my body tremble. I ignored the fact that my voice had cracked, as a single tear found its way down my cheek that I quickly wiped away.

I hadn't known Orochimaru's words could affect me this much.

"What?"

"When Orochimaru takes you as his vessel," I rose my head up to meet his narrowed eyes, "kill him once the process is complete. Do not let him take you over. I beg of you."

Sasuke's eyes widened at my plea. Worry flashed through his eyes as he watched me.

I rose up from the ground slowly. To my surprise, Sasuke's was in front of my in an instant, his hand grabbing mine and helping me up gently. Kabuto opened the door, revealing Genyumaru behind him.

We were on our way now to Father's destination, as I tried to ignore the fact that a woman had just run past me as I followed behind Sasuke.

Kabuto stopped behind me to tell her a few things before he resumed on following us.

-

We were now at a vast open space, empty of any life whatsoever upon the ground. I sat on the top of the closest tree, using the wind to envelop me. I also manipulated the wind to my own benefit to hear the words they exchanged. I tried to ignore the presence of that woman right underneath me.

"Sasuke. Let me see the results of your training so far." Orochimaru said.

"You're my opponent?"

"By no means."

The next moment I blinked there was an army of at least a thousand standing behind Father.

I rose an eyebrow as I watched Sasuke's face, curious to see any change in his expression.

But like always, it was bland.

"Very impressive indeed. A thousand foes stand before you and you don't even bat an eyelid."

No response.

Orochimaru sneered. "Begin."

As he disappeared from view, the soldiers charged at Sasuke as he jumped back, drawing out his snake sword.

Sasuke was majestic.

Every swing of his sword, every move of his body, every block he performed. It was flawless. I, myself, am impressed.

Orochimaru may have seen me as the most perfect vessel. But Sasuke just now proved his worth. At the same time he was strong in strength and endurance, he was also strong in power. And what even made him more impressive was his style and movement when he fought. He was graceful; planned out his moved beforehand.