Chapter 5: Grief and Unfilial Son

Sasuke and Yasaka sat together, creating an intriguing contrast. Sasuke maintained his composed posture, while Yasaka exuded grace. The ambiance was serene, with soft lighting casting gentle shadows on the walls. The table was adorned with enticing dishes showcasing Japanese cuisine.

Yasaka's attention to detail was evident in the arrangement of the dishes, creating a sense of warmth and comfort. Miso soup, freshly prepared sushi, tempura, and fluffy white rice were placed at the center of the room, creating a sense of warmth and comfort.

Sasuke's gaze shifted between the assortment of dishes that Yasaka had prepared, realizing the depth of his hunger. Expressing his gratitude for the meal, he delicately maneuvered his chopsticks and took his first bite. The explosion of flavors tantalized his taste buds, surpassing any expectations he had.

Unbeknownst to him, a solitary tear escaped, tracing a path down his cheek. The taste of Yasaka's cooking evoked memories of his mother's meals, a bittersweet reminder of the warmth and comfort he had once known before the tragedy that befell his family.

Gathering himself, Sasuke composed his emotions and continued to eat in silence. Yet, within the recesses of his mind, a storm of conflicting thoughts and emotions raged. The opportunity to grieve had finally presented itself, and he couldn't ignore the weight of his losses any longer.

The pain of his mother's absence, the longing for his father's guidance—it all surged to the surface. Regret washed over him as he realized he had not properly mourned their deaths. Neglecting their graves and forsaking his duty as a son, he questioned his worthiness to carry their legacy.

As each mouthful stirred memories of happier times, Sasuke's resolve wavered. Was his sole purpose to return to a world that branded him a criminal, a world in which the village itself had caused his suffering?

The prospect of reuniting with his former life felt increasingly dim, overshadowed by the pain and suffering he had experienced. The solemn realization settled within him, raising significant questions about his identity and his path forward.

Yasaka couldn't contain her concern as she observed Sasuke retreat into his shell, sensing the weight of his past weighing heavily on him. The glistening tear on his face spoke volumes, hinting at the depth of his sorrow. With a warm smile, she reassured him that he didn't have to share his reasons, emphasizing that he was always welcome in her home, where she would gladly prepare an abundance of food for him.

Sasuke, appreciative of Yasaka's understanding, mustered a smile in return. He genuinely valued her genuine care and concern. Throughout his life, he had often been seen solely as an Uchiha—an emblem of tragedy and a figure to be protected. The pitying gazes he encountered after the massacre upon leaving the hospital disgusted him.

It was only when he departed from Konoha that he felt a true sense of liberation, freed from the burdens of his prodigious talent and the expectations that burdened the Uchiha clan. In the midst of his journey with Team Taka, despite his initial aloofness and commanding demeanor, he had come to appreciate their presence.

Reflecting on his actions, he acknowledged the need to apologize to them, particularly Karin, whom he had taken for granted and almost killed, an act which must have devastated her. As Sasuke contemplated his path and the redemption he sought, he recognized the significance of finding his way back home and mending the relationships he had damaged along the way.

After finishing their meal, Sasuke expressed his desire to find a training ground where he could reacquaint himself with his body after being bedridden. Agreeing to his request, Yasaka guided him to a training ground she frequently used.

As they arrived, Sasuke took in the sight of an empty courtyard with stone-lined flooring and flourishing greenery. The serene atmosphere that enveloped the training ground had an inexplicably calming effect.

Yasaka informed Sasuke that this area possessed an abundance of natural energy she used for Senjustu, a power system he had encountered through Naruto's usage. Intrigued by the unexpected presence of this technique in this world, Sasuke made a mental note to investigate further. However, for now, his immediate concern was ensuring he could still defend himself, making use of whatever resources were available to him.

As Yasaka left, Sasuke found himself alone in the training ground, surrounded by the stillness of nature. Determined to vent his emotions and sharpen his skills, he reached into his scrolls and retrieved his arsenal of shurikens, kunai, and his trusty Kusanagi swords.

Taking a deep breath, Sasuke centered himself and began practicing the intricate sword katas he had learned from Orochimaru. With each fluid movement, he felt the weight of his loss and the longing for his missing arm. Despite the challenges, he pushed forward, honing his technique and adjusting his balance to compensate for the absence.

Seeking to further test his precision, Sasuke shifted his focus to shuriken and kunai throwing. Leaping into the air, he activated his Sharingan, causing his eyes to emit a crimson glow. The world seemed to slow down as his heightened perception allowed him to track multiple trajectories simultaneously.

With a flick of his wrist, three shurikens materialized between his fingers, held in place by his chakra-infused grip. He released them one by one, each finding its mark with impeccable accuracy. The shurikens danced through the air, their trajectories intertwining and colliding. One deflected off another, altering its course, as it curved gracefully towards a distant tree.

The thud echoed across the training grounf, leaving a mark on the sturdy trunk. Sasuke landed gracefully, his face solemn and determined. This training session was just a chance for him to express his grief, frustrations, and determination to overcome his restrictions through his past actions.

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