At the gates of Dragon Release Village.
Sasuke looked at Itachi, who was ready to set out, and could not help asking, "Where are you going, big brother?"
"To take care of something in Konoha." Itachi patted Sasuke's head. "I'll be back soon."
"I'm coming too!" Sasuke said at once.
"No." Itachi shook his head. "The circumstances are special this time. Stay in the village."
"But..."
"Listen to me."
Itachi's tone was gentle, but it left no room for argument.
Sasuke gritted his teeth, but finally nodded. "Be careful, then."
"I will."
Itachi turned to his mother, Mikoto, and Izumi beside her.
Mikoto's eyes were full of worry, but she said nothing, only stepping forward to straighten Itachi's collar.
"Come back soon."
"I will."
Izumi walked up to Itachi, rose onto her toes, and kissed him lightly on the cheek.
"Stay safe."
Itachi looked at her, his gaze softening. "Wait for me."
With that, he turned to Tagitsuhime.
Tagitsuhime had already changed into a pale purple outfit that allowed her to move easily, her long hair tied in a ponytail. She looked a little less alluring than usual, and a little more businesslike.
"Let's go," Itachi said.
The two flickered out of sight.
Sasuke watched the direction they had left in, his fists slowly clenching.
He had a feeling-
Something major was bound to happen on his brother's trip to Konoha this time. He could not let his brother face it alone.
Two days later.
Within the Land of Fire, two figures sped through the forest at night.
Itachi moved quickly, but Tagitsuhime kept pace easily beside him, even having enough attention to spare to observe their surroundings.
"Itachi-kun, there's no need to rush so much," Tagitsuhime said with a soft laugh. "Konoha is less than a day's journey