Sakura Shippuden (#2 Sakura Trilogy)

Sakura Shippuden: [Chapter 14]

The first thing they thought of each other when they left the office was — "We are both abnormally pale," Sakura commented, looking from his arm to hers, the latter's sleeve rolled up. "Were you artificially created?"

"I agree we are both pale, but I was not artificially created," the black-haired boy stated, "however, you have flashy colors that will not be beneficial to the team." He did not understand why someone that was supposed to be discreet wore red and pink clothes that basically screamed 'ambush me, and while you're at it, slaughter the rest of my team, too!'

The pinkette blinked. "Your shirt exposes your abdomen. In a scenario where you are injured, would it not have been prevented by dressing for the occasion?" She did not understand what the benefits of showing off your belly-button were, nor did she think there were any.

The boy nodded. "You are well-trained in the art of what I call, 'sassing'. I believe I shall become quite acquainted with you. I am Sai." He deemed her proficient enough to keep up in conversation with him.

"I also believe that we will become acquaintances," she agreed while shaking his hand, "I am called Sakura Haruno. Do not be surprised if I have began to refer to you as what I call a 'nickname'." She watched him carefully, apprehensive at the prospect of a teammate that was also not strong-suited with tact. Would they negatively affect each other, reversing her pain-staking process of improvement, or would they benefit from this experience?

After they were done shaking hands, the two simultaneously turned to Yamato and stared at him expectantly. Well, that was rather anti-climactic, he thought dryly, scratching his temple in a nervous tic.

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"I suggest we draw similarities and differences between the two of us," Sai suggested, causing Sakura to nod. The three shinobi were now at Yakiniku Q, waiting for the waitress to take their orders.

"Well, maybe we should introduce ourselves, first," Yamato suggested, scratching the back of his head wearily. Something told him normal procedure was not expected to be followed with his team.

"That is also a good idea," Sakura said. "Perhaps we should hold our previous discussion for now." She stared at the other teenager expectantly, who nodded silently. Then, they simultaneously looked over to their sensei.

"Um, I'm Yamato. I am a jōnin, and now this team's sensei!" He chuckled nervously at their identical blank stares, then continued. "My favorite food is the walnut, I like drinking tea, relaxing, and reading books on architecture. I don't like greasy food or idleness." He smiled uneasily, then nodded to Sakura. "Your turn."

"Hai." Sakura thought for a few seconds until she spoke. "My name is Sakura Haruno. I like dango, reading, and training." She paused, as if debating whether or not she should add something in. "Although I have not done so in a while, perhaps I also enjoy the company of Sasuke and Ramen-boy. I dislike when people are taken advantage of, despite the fact I once did this."

"When you say Sasuke, do you mean the criminal, Sasuke Uchiha?" Sai tilted his head, confused. Why someone with a personality similar to his would fraternize with a missing-nin was beyond him.

Sakura allowed herself to let out a small smile. I most likely look like a fool. "Yes." What she didn't realize was that not everyone had the same opportunity to see Sasuke the way she did, and to outsiders, they were scandalized at the prospect of befriending a wanted criminal.

The black-haired boy next to her furrowed his eyebrows. "How is it you like a traitor?"

Before Sakura could open her mouth to explain, Yamato interrupted. "In special circumstances, it's quite possible for someone to love another, despite the...questionable choices one might make."