Sasuke was so healthy and happy. It made Itachi smile to watch their interactions. He knew his little brother had hopes of learning medical ninjutsu. Perhaps this could be someone who could help make that dream come true.

Itachi gave his permission, but it wasn't until the middle of the night, when both kids were sound asleep (Sasuke surprisingly asleep in his own bed and not draped over his niisan) that they began to speak of more serious topics.

"There's... something about what's wrong with me... that interests you..." he whispered. It was less of an observation, more of a probing question.