RELATIONSHIPS
last updated: 10/24/2011
CASTMATES.
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ○UZUMAKI NARUTO | MEISTER
For all outward appearances Sasuke dislikes Naruto and does so loudly. He won't miss an opportunity to make fun of him and call him a failure; but in truth, he's Sasuke's ultimate rival, and there is not a single person who can motivate him- and threaten him- the way this idiot can. Since their arrival, Sasuke has gone to great lengths to try and keep his goal of revenge his main focus and ignore the insistence of Naruto.
However this hasn't gone quite as planned, as in this city there is only so much avoiding Sasuke can do. Naruto is Itachi's partner, and it's a bone of contention for the younger Uchiha; something he would have seen as betrayal had Naruto's efforts not doubled. He was there for Sasuke at his lowest point when he was temporarily made Beloved, only for the bond to break. They saw each other more frequently after that. And when Naruto was kidnapped, Sasuke (to his own confusion) was one of the first to go after him.
As he's grown and found himself interacting with the residents of Death City, Sasuke has started reconsidering what a bond is, and reevaluating his relationship with Naruto. Everything he comes up with is conflicting and even more complicated than it had been in Konoha: guilt, stubborn dislike, competitiveness, concern. These feelings have only multiplied since his return from his world a second time, the only difference being that now, Sasuke wars with himself over whether to face these emotions or keep running from them in an attempt to keep himself safe.
● ● ● ● ● ● ○ ○UCHIHA ITACHI | WEAPON
Itachi is everything. He stands for many things in Sasuke's life: hatred, betrayal, competition, idolization, love.
Upon arrival he had been the reason Sasuke wanted to go back. When Itachi showed up, he no longer had the drive to go back, because all he wanted to do was kill him. But in his efforts, he made a contract that nearly broke him, and discovered part of the truth about what really happened that night from Itachi- who had already died by the time he showed up in Death City.
Now, Sasuke is second guessing everything about his brother; including how Itachi feels for him. Though he far from forgives him, he isn't sure if he can go through with killing him anymore, and can't decide if this makes him weak in his brother's eyes, if he's let him down, or what will happen. Conflicted, Sasuke isn't sure whether he wants to fight, reach out, or stay away from his brother completely. He has found, though, that his concern for his brother's wellbeing has become a reoccurring thought, and as such Sasuke frequently keeps tabs on the man.
● ● ● ● ● ● ○ ○HARUNO SAKURA | WEAPON
Sakura, as always, is another emotional weight Sasuke is consistently troubled by. Her appearance was something of a surprise for all of them, though unusually, Sasuke felt relief at her arrival. That was until she told him precisely what he had turned into in their own world. The information was jarring, as even with his decisions and everything he'd seen, Sasuke couldn't wrap his head around the truth he would become person who would try to kill her. Needless to say, he holds no ill feeling toward her. She is as emotional as he remembers her being, if older, but he recognizes a maturity in her eyes that he is unaccustomed to. He wonders, quietly, if she might not understand both himself and Naruto a little better somehow, but he has yet to figure out how he is meant to act around her.
● ● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○HATAKE KAKASHI | MEISTER
Sasuke's (former) sensei, and someone he feels a great deal of confliction over. He is probably one of the people who knows Sasuke the best, and it makes Sasuke uncomfortable. He hadn't expected to have to face Kakashi again, not after leaving Konoha. Not after taking his teachings, his jutsu, and smearing them into the dirt for his own ends. It's as though everything Kakashi has taught him, he's thrown in his tutor's face-- and while before arriving, this hadn't bothered Sasuke, he's intensely aware of it now.
In many ways, he has trouble facing Kakashi in person, and even speaking over communicator makes the Uchiha ill at ease.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○MAITO GAI | WEAPON
Sasuke doesn't know Gai very well, and never went out of his way to know him. But he's rambunctious, loud, possibly insane, and incredibly annoying. Sasuke doesn't think someone at that age should be wearing that sort of clothing or acting without some sort of dignity. But; his taijutsu is almost unmatched and that, if nothing else, is what redeems him in Sasuke's eyes.
Like everyone else from his world, Sasuke continues to hold him at arm's length, and treats him with as little respect as he shows almost everyone else. He once assumed Gai, like everyone else, regarded him like a gun about to go off- until he went out of his way to confront him. It was reminiscent of the talk he'd had with Kakashi before he left Konoha, and though awkward, Sasuke wasn't quite sure what to make of it. If nothing else, it does prompt him to question if his assumptions of everyone's hatred for him are entirely true.
● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○SABAKU NO GAARA | MEISTER
Gaara is still an enigma to Sasuke. He feels a familiarity toward him, one born of their altercation during the juunin exams-- but this is tempered by the changes. That Gaara is older than him, that he has become Kazekage. That he looks at Sasuke with a hateful suspicion born of things Sasuke has not yet done. For this reason, he doesn't trust Gaara as far as he can throw him, and doesn't go out of his way to talk to him.
But his curiousity of the future, and of Gaara as a person, still has him stalking his network posts should they crop up.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ROCK LEE | WEAPON
As exuberant and annoying as ever, but he holds Lee with the same distrust he holds for everyone else from this future Konoha. The way they look at him frustrates him, and he has made no effort to forge the familiarity that (sort of, kind of) might have once existed of being from the same village. Sasuke holds a smoldering jealousy of the improvements he's seen in Lee's taijutsu, and though he would gladly learn if only by watching- his pride won't allow him to do so.
Lee offered his assistance in the search for Naruto, and while he knows it was only for that kid, he also isn't sure what to make of it in regards to himself. While not friendly, he had acted professionally, and Sasuke grapples with the bizarre conflict of being an ally and a criminal to this young man.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○HYUUGA NEJI | MEISTER
Sasuke has seen little of Neji since his arrival. He knows only that he is older, and that he is on the Watch with pretty much every other ninja from his world. By default, Sasuke continues to shun him like everyone else he knows; a preemptive strike to avoid the hateful look that spurn his own dark feelings. They have crossed paths a few times, but none of them have been on anything less than eggshells. In one instance, Sasuke had even attempted to provoke him, but time and again- though he knows the Hyuuga regards him in high suspicion- he hasn't done anything untoward.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○TENTEN | MEISTER
She is loud and, as far as Sasuke is concerned, the one person from his own world who would most likely fire off like a loose canon and come after him. While he doesn't really regard her as a threat, he continues to treat her with the same amount of disdain and careful consideration he's unable to shake in regards to anyone from Konoha.
SHIBUSEN & THE WITCHES.
● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○DEATH THE KID | MEISTER
The supposed leader of this place. He is organized and apparently compulsive (something Sasuke finds bizarre and annoying at times), but most of the things he says are concise and to the point- and that, Sasuke can appreciate. He regards Kid solely on a professional level and won't go out of his way to contact him unless it pertains to Shibusen or the Witches.
● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○BLACK★STAR | MEISTER
He reminds Sasuke intensely of Naruto, and he isn't sure whether this is a blessing or a curse.
Probably a curse, since he ran naked through a ball that was thrown. But Sasuke recognizes that sometimes the biggest idiots are the most surprising, and strong, so he doesn't underestimate him.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○SPIRIT ALBARN | DEATH SCYTHE
Another strange one, for the most part, Sasuke can't take him seriously. Not with the ridiculous antics he's seen the man pull, nor for the way he seems to goof around about absolutely everything. The guy is seriously overdramatic, and at times Sasuke thinks he'd do well just to go and spend his time with Lee or Gai- their spirit seems pretty damn similar.
But he is in charge of many things, and while sometimes Sasuke doubts his ability to stay on track in any sense of the word, he has yet to really lead them astray. He is also more than willing to impart information without a fuss, something Sasuke will never complain about.
● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○YUMI AZUSA | DEATH SCYTHE SNIPER
Sasuke has spoken to her a handful of times, and everytime she has been clear and straightforward. She is a wealth of information, a bit short tempered about what she perceives as stupid questions. Or at least, that's what Sasuke thinks it is. He expects, like everyone else, she has another side- one that would make him roll his eyes if he cared enough to look.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○JUSTIN LAW | DEATH SCYTHE GUILLOTINE
The only Weapon Sasuke knows of that does not have a Meister, and does not need one. He's impressed by this, and by how powerful Justin clearly is. He's torn between wanting to ask exactly how Justin discovered this power, and really not wanting to go anywhere near it. His diligence and devotion to what sounds like religion makes Sasuke wonder how legitimate it is, and he isn't entirely sure he'd want to give himself to the cause.
It could all be because Justin is deaf, after all. However, he does seem to be forming some kind of close relationship with Rei, and outside of his abilities, this is what keeps Sasuke paying attention.
● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○MIFUNE | SAMURAI BODYGUARD
Mifune is probably the most impressive person Sasuke has met. He is neither Weapon nor Meister, but he is still affiliated with Shibusen and is one of the most talented people with a blade Sasuke has ever come across. He had the chance to fight with him during a Witch attack, and since that day, hasn't been able to get the samurai or his numerous katana out of his head. Though Sasuke has been distracted by his own personal issues, he is fully intent on finding Mifune and requesting his tutorship in how to fight the way he does.
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○EXCALIBUR | WTF
What is this.
I don't even.
● ● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○THE WITCHES
In the beginning, Sasuke had been half tempted by their sheer power to go and have that strength for himself.
But over time, with the bonds he's unwittingly made, seeing the damage they've done to civilians and to people that are close to him; Sasuke's hate has slowly been snowballing. While he finds he can't place his dark feelings wholly on Itachi anymore, he lacks an outlet, and finds that more and more- those feelings are being directed to the Witches. The entire reason they were brought here. The reason those time travellers came back and looked at him differently. The only people who have managed to do something impossible: kidnap Naruto. Sasuke is finding that his murderous inclinations crop up more often when the Witches and their spawn come up in conversation, and in battle.
RESIDENTS.
KING SARALEGUI | MEISTER
Saralegui, was at one point Sasuke's permanent meister, and now continues to be a source of conflicting emotions and confusion for the young ninja. In the beginning, Sasuke had trouble resonating with anyone, and found Saralegui could do so with relative ease. He was smitten with Sasuke's power and told Sasuke he could use him to his full potential. Filled with a desire to advance as quickly as possible, Sasuke took him up on the offer. However, Saralegui doesn't fight the way Sasuke is used to, and he is no where close to as graceful as a ninja. But if he wanted to move forward, he needed a partner, and so was forced to stay.
Slowly this relationship has evolved. Saralegui has blackmailed him, he has fought with the king, he has dabbled in other meisters. He needs to be saved often, and Sasuke is convinced he's one of the laziest people he knows, preferring to order others around to do his bidding. He's a king, and as such it makes sense, but Sasuke won't have any of it. He urges him to do his own fighting, to get better, and has even almost taken the king on as his own pupil to increase flexibility and nimbleness. They have been able to pull of amazing things, like Sasuke's Chidori, something he was sure he couldn't even do in Death City.
But Saralegui is a brat. He's obnoxious and has no concept of personal space. He uses words as weapons and is intelligent enough to use them well. He's possessive and jealous and sleeps in too late. More often than not Sasuke just wants to punch that stupid smirk off his face. And yet, they worked through resonation problems. Sasuke has saved him on numerous occasions, and should there be trouble, Sasuke looks for him. He has grown almost comfortable with Saralegui, and knows there is some kind of deep hurt, some loneliness in him that coincides with the things Sasuke knows. He doesn't try and change Sasuke's mind when he sets it to something. In a bizarre twist, Sasuke has put far more into this relationship than he ever intended to, a dedication akin to the one he put forth towards his rival status with Naruto.
Slowly, Sasuke has begun viewing Saralegui as not only one of his team, but an irrevocably important presence in his life. Since his second return from his own world Sasuke has struggled with himself, and it caused resonation issues with Saralegui. This eventually, culminated in a near-fatal injury as Sasuke lost control. Unable to cope with the idea that this new important person could die, and he wouldn't be strong enough to protect him, Sasuke ended the partnership, fully believing it would be for the better. Sara didn't take this too gracefully, but laden with guilt, Sasuke hasn't refuted the king's public claims.
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SHIBUYA YUURI | WEAPON
He is Saralegui's most important person, and Sasuke knows his partner might throw almost anything away for him, regardless of what he might say. Saralegui has confessed he thinks of Yuuri as a friend, and while Sasuke knows this might have somethiing to do with the power Yuuri has in his own world- he can also tell it's more than that.
Yuuri is a kind soul to the point of being too kind. He is too naive, and it worries Sasuke sometimes that a king could be so easily swayed and convinced of things that aren't necessarily true. It's difficult to hate someone with such a big heart, and while Sasuke doesn't dislike him, he has made no effort to get to know him. But with Yuuri living with he and Saralegui, it's almost unavoidable. He expects, also, that Yuuri might know more about him than he lets on, since he was one of the people that went to the future. Nothing was expressly said, but Sasuke knows something happened to him in that time, and he knows it's something Yuuri took to heart to change. Not only for Sasuke, but for that future.
His passion reminds Sasuke of Naruto's affection for Konoha, and he recognizes that this is probably what makes him a good king.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
ROY MUSTANG | MEISTER
Roy first caught Sasuke's attention because he was a master of hand to hand combat. Sasuke couldn't strike him down the first time they sparred, and it sparked a desire to keep coming back for more. As the first person Sasuke couldn't defeat in Death City, it has become his goal to surpass Roy Mustang in battle.
These endeavors have somehow led Sasuke to have a bizarre respect for the man. He leads the Watch, and leads it well. He takes care of his people and doesn't leave anyone behind. He also bites off more than he can chew at times, and Sasuke has found himself volunteering information about himself and situations that he wouldn't normally hand over to anyone. Though he doesn't teach Sasuke to fight, emotionally and in topics of logic, Roy has become something of a mentor, and Sasuke has never found himself to turn down the man's company.
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YAO WONG (CHINA) | WEAPON
China has become Sasuke's literal sensei in the way of hand to hand combat. His style of fighting is similar to what Sasuke knows, and having literally centuries of experience, has been a very wise and very talented teacher. He's a very strange person; his personality is large, and he speaks with a sort of lilt that might make it hard for people to understand him-- but Sasuke has since learned to decipher is almost cryptic way of speaking. He can read China through how he fights, and though they don't necessarily speak very often, Sasuke has no problem seeking out his company, or spending hours training with him.
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KUROSAWA REI | MEISTER
Rei Kurosawa is a dedicated woman. She came from a terrifying place filled with terrifying experiences and it has left her scarred in a way Sasuke can resonate with. She is maternal and kind, but straight to the point when it it is necessary. Sasuke has become extremely attached to her, though he might not show it on the outside, and he certainly didn't mean to do it. She reminds him of the mother he lost, and though it isn't something he actively thinks of, he has a deep rooted desire to protect her and keep her from harm's way. He's fully aware she isn't helpless, but the urge is one he can't suppress.
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AOYAGI SEIMEI | MEISTER
This man promised Sasuke power, and during a wavelength attack, Sasuke agreed to terms he never would have without seriously thinking it over. Seimei carved his power word, BELOVED, into Sasuke's skin and granted him the boost he'd swore to give. The only problem was that as soon as the Wavelength attack was over, the bond snapped, and Sasuke was sent into a spiral of devastating depression. What he hadn't fully comprehended was the power behind the Fighter/Sacrifice pairing. That the bond meant a fullfillment and a dependency that, once taken away, left a person broken and wishing for death.
Sasuke, in that time, felt the devastation of losing his family all over again; but without the desire for revenge. He spent over a week recuperating, a time during which Seimei tried to tempt him back, and Naruto refused to let Sasuke comply.
Since then, Sasuke has rejected him as the Meister he could have been to the ninja, but Sasuke still feels the pull from time to time. The one the bond created and the one it shattered. Sasuke knows it isn't real, that it was something fabricated, but it doesn't change how he feels. He hates himself for falling for it, and he hates Seimei for making him feel this way- especially when, to Sasuke, it's clearly obvious that Seimei cares only for what he can manipulate. However Sasuke can't really call him on anything, and as such, can only watch him from a distance.
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AOYAGI RITSUKA | MEISTER
This boy is the elusive little brother Sasuke has heard so frequently about from Seimei. Since his arrival, Sasuke hasn't seen much of him, but he has a great curiousity about him, and his relationship with the elder Aoyagi. He also can't help but wonder just what Seimei hasn't been telling the kid.![]()
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SOHKI | MEISTER
Sasuke started talking to Sohki because he was the only person in Death City who could brew a decent cup of tea. While peculiar, Sasuke was still curious about him, and didn't mind sharing tea with him once in a while. When he'd first arrived it was the most normal thing Sasuke had encountered, and it was something of a comfort. They even briefly fought together during a Witch attack.
But during a gala that was held, Sohki accidentally gave him tea that left him a little inebriated. A concoction from a fair that, whether because he is human or only a child, affected Sasuke more than expected. Thinking he'd done it on purpose, Sasuke raged and nearly sought out retribution. But Sohki explained it, and then explained that he himself wasn't human and therefore couldn't have known the effects would have been the same. He seemed genuine. And not long after, he brought Sasuke a gift from Japan: a kunai. Sasuke's first real weapon in a place where weapons didn't really seem to exist.
While Sasuke can't bring himself to fully forgive Sohki, and can't quite bring himself to trust him the same way he once had, he still puts up with the kirin. Tentatively, they've started sharing tea again, and Sasuke has grudgingly, slowly, been accepting him back into his life.
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COUNT D | MEISTER
To Sasuke, the Count is almost creepy. He has a strange smile and a strange way of talking and knows things he shouldn't know. Sasuke thought this was all there was to him until he saw his facade break; first with the arrival of someone he knew and next with the expression of love he directed towards animals.
There's much more to D than meets the eye, and Sasuke can't help but be curious about it. However, he doesn't trust the guy almost in the slightest, even if he was partners with Sohki before the kirin returned.
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KURAPIKA | WEAPON
A fellow Weapon who's story is startlingly similar to his own; complete with eye techniques and a quest for revenge. For Sasuke, this has driven a wedge of familiarity between them, and in some ways he is almost more comfortable speaking to Kurapika about things regarding his family than he is with anyone else. The only difference is that Kurapika faces a different sort of conflict over the person he vowed revenge on: they are partners, and his rival and enemy seems to be losing his desire to view Kurapika as an opponent.
Though Sasuke can't assist in explaining the feelings of inadequacy and lost confusion Kurapika seems to have, Sasuke can commiserate in some way. He sees aspects of his relationship with Naruto and Itachi in this relationship with Kurapika and Kuroro, and it keeps Sasuke coming back to lend his company to Kurapika. Since the trip to the Maldives they've become closer and more has come to light about their respective situations, and as of late, this budding relationship has only become more cemented. Sasuke trusts Kurapika, which is more than he can say for most.
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KURORO LUCIFER | MEISTER
He lied to Sasuke when it first arrived in Death City, and therefore Sasuke doesn't like him on principle. The guy is kind of a creep, but he's Kurapika's rival and clearly important to him- whether through animosity or otherwise, Sasuke can't tell. He puts up with this guy and regards him with a suspicious eye, but hasn't said anything. He is, apparently, very talented when it comes to fighting, and Sasuke can't help but grudgingly respect him for it.
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FABIOLA IGLESIAS | MEISTER
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SHINSUKE TAKASUGI | WEAPON
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KARKAT VANTAS | WEAPON
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RIKU | WEAPON
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KOZATO ENMA | WEAPON
For the life of him, Sasuke can't quite figure out exactly who this kid is. At first he seemed weak, someone who could be walked on and was more clumsy and more useless than Naruto could ever be. Sasuke might have pitied him, and wasn't really keen on giving him the time of day- until he showed that he had a backbone. It was hidden, and Enma also proved that he had a brain. That sparked Sasuke's curiousity. They partnered up for a mission, and the fact that they could resonate cemented in Sasuke's mind that there was more to Enma than met the eye. He still hasn't been able to wrap his head around him, but Sasuke has decided Enma isn't as pathetic as he appears, and that makes him worth Sasuke's time.
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ARISATO MINATO | MEISTER
When Sasuke took it upon himself to search the desert for those kidnapped, the person who offered him the most support was Minato. This was Sasuke's first foray into leadership, and though they were leading two separate teams, they worked well enough together. It would have solely been a professional relationship, until Minato sought him out in the aftermath. He said some things that really struck Sasuke, and though they weren't things Sasuke ever intended to bring up again, they did make him think. Sasuke was more than willing to assist Minato if the opportunity arose. When he was sent home, it yet again came as a surprise to Sasuke. Though it couldn't necessarily be said that he misses him, the relationship has still stuck with him, and the loss is one that can be felt in regards to the war. So in that respect, it is one Sasuke notices.
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TSUKUYO | MEISTER
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HISOKA | MEISTER
This man is met with immediate suspicion, as Sasuke's first interaction with him was after he'd broken into his apartment to spy on Yuuri and Saralegui. He attempted to chase him out, and ended up being toyed with, since Hisoka's abilities outmatched Sasuke's in close combat. It rubbed Sasuke in all the wrong ways, and so he's been added to the Uchiha's hit list. He keeps an eye out for him the same way he does anyone he dislikes with any sort of intensity.
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EDWARD ELRIC | SENT HOME
Before being sent home, Edward was someone his own age that Sasuke could collaborate on an intelligent level about battle strategies. He had interesting ways of thinking, did something similar to jutsu back in his own world, and held a stubborn, determined passion that Sasuke could relate to. Though they weren't necessarily friends by the definition of the word, they spoke on a regular basis, and where Edward went out of his way to talk to Sasuke- the ninja did the same towards him.
In his last days in the city, when Sasuke was still recovering, they spent a day together keeping Sasuke distracted and talking. Sasuke told him of his brother, Edward told him of Winry, who had also disappeared. Edward vanished from the city before Winry could return, and Sasuke took it upon himself to seek her out and tell her.
Though it was probably something simple, Sasuke was surprised to find himself almost missing Edward's company. He was, likely, the first person Sasuke stared forming a bond with since he'd left Konoha and arrived in Death City. They were closer than Sasuke realized, and he was the ninja's first loss of someone from Nevada.
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KILLUA ZOLDYCK | SENT HOME
Young and loudmouthed Sasuke had every intention of putting this kid in his place- until Sasuke realized he was just that: a kid. He liked ice cream, he liked pranks and playing, he bet Sasuke over food about a fight-- which, in retrospect, wasn't that unusual to what Sasuke has done before. But though he seemed young, Sasuke won't judge a person solely on age, and it was for good reason. Killua proved to be a talented fighter, and he had a knack for making weapons (namely bombs) out of household items. He could have been a real asset, and he was meant to spar with Sasuke- before he was sent home. The second loss Sasuke has faced, and he feels more annoyed by it than anything else.
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ERIDAN AMPORA | SENT HOME
Guy thinks he's tough shit, and Sasuke only had to roll his eyes when it first came up. He was well convinced he was just an idiot with a big mouth who was all bark and no bite. Though he's one of those Trolls and while some of them seem to be a threat, Sasuke just can't bring himself to take this guy seriously. Sasuke hasn't really gone out of his way to talk to this guy again, but he does know Saralegui and he interact, and it's enough for Sasuke to be primed for anything. They are signed on for a fight, and though Sasuke takes the fight seriously, he still views Eridan as being beneath him, and as someone who needs to learn to keep his trap shut.
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CASTMATES.
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ○UZUMAKI NARUTO | MEISTER
For all outward appearances Sasuke dislikes Naruto and does so loudly. He won't miss an opportunity to make fun of him and call him a failure; but in truth, he's Sasuke's ultimate rival, and there is not a single person who can motivate him- and threaten him- the way this idiot can. Since their arrival, Sasuke has gone to great lengths to try and keep his goal of revenge his main focus and ignore the insistence of Naruto.
However this hasn't gone quite as planned, as in this city there is only so much avoiding Sasuke can do. Naruto is Itachi's partner, and it's a bone of contention for the younger Uchiha; something he would have seen as betrayal had Naruto's efforts not doubled. He was there for Sasuke at his lowest point when he was temporarily made Beloved, only for the bond to break. They saw each other more frequently after that. And when Naruto was kidnapped, Sasuke (to his own confusion) was one of the first to go after him.
As he's grown and found himself interacting with the residents of Death City, Sasuke has started reconsidering what a bond is, and reevaluating his relationship with Naruto. Everything he comes up with is conflicting and even more complicated than it had been in Konoha: guilt, stubborn dislike, competitiveness, concern. These feelings have only multiplied since his return from his world a second time, the only difference being that now, Sasuke wars with himself over whether to face these emotions or keep running from them in an attempt to keep himself safe.
● ● ● ● ● ● ○ ○UCHIHA ITACHI | WEAPON
Itachi is everything. He stands for many things in Sasuke's life: hatred, betrayal, competition, idolization, love.
Upon arrival he had been the reason Sasuke wanted to go back. When Itachi showed up, he no longer had the drive to go back, because all he wanted to do was kill him. But in his efforts, he made a contract that nearly broke him, and discovered part of the truth about what really happened that night from Itachi- who had already died by the time he showed up in Death City.
Now, Sasuke is second guessing everything about his brother; including how Itachi feels for him. Though he far from forgives him, he isn't sure if he can go through with killing him anymore, and can't decide if this makes him weak in his brother's eyes, if he's let him down, or what will happen. Conflicted, Sasuke isn't sure whether he wants to fight, reach out, or stay away from his brother completely. He has found, though, that his concern for his brother's wellbeing has become a reoccurring thought, and as such Sasuke frequently keeps tabs on the man.
● ● ● ● ● ● ○ ○HARUNO SAKURA | WEAPON
Sakura, as always, is another emotional weight Sasuke is consistently troubled by. Her appearance was something of a surprise for all of them, though unusually, Sasuke felt relief at her arrival. That was until she told him precisely what he had turned into in their own world. The information was jarring, as even with his decisions and everything he'd seen, Sasuke couldn't wrap his head around the truth he would become person who would try to kill her. Needless to say, he holds no ill feeling toward her. She is as emotional as he remembers her being, if older, but he recognizes a maturity in her eyes that he is unaccustomed to. He wonders, quietly, if she might not understand both himself and Naruto a little better somehow, but he has yet to figure out how he is meant to act around her.
● ● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○HATAKE KAKASHI | MEISTER
Sasuke's (former) sensei, and someone he feels a great deal of confliction over. He is probably one of the people who knows Sasuke the best, and it makes Sasuke uncomfortable. He hadn't expected to have to face Kakashi again, not after leaving Konoha. Not after taking his teachings, his jutsu, and smearing them into the dirt for his own ends. It's as though everything Kakashi has taught him, he's thrown in his tutor's face-- and while before arriving, this hadn't bothered Sasuke, he's intensely aware of it now.
In many ways, he has trouble facing Kakashi in person, and even speaking over communicator makes the Uchiha ill at ease.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○MAITO GAI | WEAPON
Sasuke doesn't know Gai very well, and never went out of his way to know him. But he's rambunctious, loud, possibly insane, and incredibly annoying. Sasuke doesn't think someone at that age should be wearing that sort of clothing or acting without some sort of dignity. But; his taijutsu is almost unmatched and that, if nothing else, is what redeems him in Sasuke's eyes.
Like everyone else from his world, Sasuke continues to hold him at arm's length, and treats him with as little respect as he shows almost everyone else. He once assumed Gai, like everyone else, regarded him like a gun about to go off- until he went out of his way to confront him. It was reminiscent of the talk he'd had with Kakashi before he left Konoha, and though awkward, Sasuke wasn't quite sure what to make of it. If nothing else, it does prompt him to question if his assumptions of everyone's hatred for him are entirely true.
● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○SABAKU NO GAARA | MEISTER
Gaara is still an enigma to Sasuke. He feels a familiarity toward him, one born of their altercation during the juunin exams-- but this is tempered by the changes. That Gaara is older than him, that he has become Kazekage. That he looks at Sasuke with a hateful suspicion born of things Sasuke has not yet done. For this reason, he doesn't trust Gaara as far as he can throw him, and doesn't go out of his way to talk to him.
But his curiousity of the future, and of Gaara as a person, still has him stalking his network posts should they crop up.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ROCK LEE | WEAPON
As exuberant and annoying as ever, but he holds Lee with the same distrust he holds for everyone else from this future Konoha. The way they look at him frustrates him, and he has made no effort to forge the familiarity that (sort of, kind of) might have once existed of being from the same village. Sasuke holds a smoldering jealousy of the improvements he's seen in Lee's taijutsu, and though he would gladly learn if only by watching- his pride won't allow him to do so.
Lee offered his assistance in the search for Naruto, and while he knows it was only for that kid, he also isn't sure what to make of it in regards to himself. While not friendly, he had acted professionally, and Sasuke grapples with the bizarre conflict of being an ally and a criminal to this young man.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○HYUUGA NEJI | MEISTER
Sasuke has seen little of Neji since his arrival. He knows only that he is older, and that he is on the Watch with pretty much every other ninja from his world. By default, Sasuke continues to shun him like everyone else he knows; a preemptive strike to avoid the hateful look that spurn his own dark feelings. They have crossed paths a few times, but none of them have been on anything less than eggshells. In one instance, Sasuke had even attempted to provoke him, but time and again- though he knows the Hyuuga regards him in high suspicion- he hasn't done anything untoward.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○TENTEN | MEISTER
She is loud and, as far as Sasuke is concerned, the one person from his own world who would most likely fire off like a loose canon and come after him. While he doesn't really regard her as a threat, he continues to treat her with the same amount of disdain and careful consideration he's unable to shake in regards to anyone from Konoha.
SHIBUSEN & THE WITCHES.
● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○DEATH THE KID | MEISTER
The supposed leader of this place. He is organized and apparently compulsive (something Sasuke finds bizarre and annoying at times), but most of the things he says are concise and to the point- and that, Sasuke can appreciate. He regards Kid solely on a professional level and won't go out of his way to contact him unless it pertains to Shibusen or the Witches.
● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○BLACK★STAR | MEISTER
He reminds Sasuke intensely of Naruto, and he isn't sure whether this is a blessing or a curse.
Probably a curse, since he ran naked through a ball that was thrown. But Sasuke recognizes that sometimes the biggest idiots are the most surprising, and strong, so he doesn't underestimate him.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○SPIRIT ALBARN | DEATH SCYTHE
Another strange one, for the most part, Sasuke can't take him seriously. Not with the ridiculous antics he's seen the man pull, nor for the way he seems to goof around about absolutely everything. The guy is seriously overdramatic, and at times Sasuke thinks he'd do well just to go and spend his time with Lee or Gai- their spirit seems pretty damn similar.
But he is in charge of many things, and while sometimes Sasuke doubts his ability to stay on track in any sense of the word, he has yet to really lead them astray. He is also more than willing to impart information without a fuss, something Sasuke will never complain about.
● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○YUMI AZUSA | DEATH SCYTHE SNIPER
Sasuke has spoken to her a handful of times, and everytime she has been clear and straightforward. She is a wealth of information, a bit short tempered about what she perceives as stupid questions. Or at least, that's what Sasuke thinks it is. He expects, like everyone else, she has another side- one that would make him roll his eyes if he cared enough to look.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○JUSTIN LAW | DEATH SCYTHE GUILLOTINE
The only Weapon Sasuke knows of that does not have a Meister, and does not need one. He's impressed by this, and by how powerful Justin clearly is. He's torn between wanting to ask exactly how Justin discovered this power, and really not wanting to go anywhere near it. His diligence and devotion to what sounds like religion makes Sasuke wonder how legitimate it is, and he isn't entirely sure he'd want to give himself to the cause.
It could all be because Justin is deaf, after all. However, he does seem to be forming some kind of close relationship with Rei, and outside of his abilities, this is what keeps Sasuke paying attention.
● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○MIFUNE | SAMURAI BODYGUARD
Mifune is probably the most impressive person Sasuke has met. He is neither Weapon nor Meister, but he is still affiliated with Shibusen and is one of the most talented people with a blade Sasuke has ever come across. He had the chance to fight with him during a Witch attack, and since that day, hasn't been able to get the samurai or his numerous katana out of his head. Though Sasuke has been distracted by his own personal issues, he is fully intent on finding Mifune and requesting his tutorship in how to fight the way he does.
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○EXCALIBUR | WTF
What is this.
I don't even.
● ● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○THE WITCHES
In the beginning, Sasuke had been half tempted by their sheer power to go and have that strength for himself.
But over time, with the bonds he's unwittingly made, seeing the damage they've done to civilians and to people that are close to him; Sasuke's hate has slowly been snowballing. While he finds he can't place his dark feelings wholly on Itachi anymore, he lacks an outlet, and finds that more and more- those feelings are being directed to the Witches. The entire reason they were brought here. The reason those time travellers came back and looked at him differently. The only people who have managed to do something impossible: kidnap Naruto. Sasuke is finding that his murderous inclinations crop up more often when the Witches and their spawn come up in conversation, and in battle.
RESIDENTS.
KING SARALEGUI | MEISTER
Saralegui, was at one point Sasuke's permanent meister, and now continues to be a source of conflicting emotions and confusion for the young ninja. In the beginning, Sasuke had trouble resonating with anyone, and found Saralegui could do so with relative ease. He was smitten with Sasuke's power and told Sasuke he could use him to his full potential. Filled with a desire to advance as quickly as possible, Sasuke took him up on the offer. However, Saralegui doesn't fight the way Sasuke is used to, and he is no where close to as graceful as a ninja. But if he wanted to move forward, he needed a partner, and so was forced to stay.
Slowly this relationship has evolved. Saralegui has blackmailed him, he has fought with the king, he has dabbled in other meisters. He needs to be saved often, and Sasuke is convinced he's one of the laziest people he knows, preferring to order others around to do his bidding. He's a king, and as such it makes sense, but Sasuke won't have any of it. He urges him to do his own fighting, to get better, and has even almost taken the king on as his own pupil to increase flexibility and nimbleness. They have been able to pull of amazing things, like Sasuke's Chidori, something he was sure he couldn't even do in Death City.
But Saralegui is a brat. He's obnoxious and has no concept of personal space. He uses words as weapons and is intelligent enough to use them well. He's possessive and jealous and sleeps in too late. More often than not Sasuke just wants to punch that stupid smirk off his face. And yet, they worked through resonation problems. Sasuke has saved him on numerous occasions, and should there be trouble, Sasuke looks for him. He has grown almost comfortable with Saralegui, and knows there is some kind of deep hurt, some loneliness in him that coincides with the things Sasuke knows. He doesn't try and change Sasuke's mind when he sets it to something. In a bizarre twist, Sasuke has put far more into this relationship than he ever intended to, a dedication akin to the one he put forth towards his rival status with Naruto.
Slowly, Sasuke has begun viewing Saralegui as not only one of his team, but an irrevocably important presence in his life. Since his second return from his own world Sasuke has struggled with himself, and it caused resonation issues with Saralegui. This eventually, culminated in a near-fatal injury as Sasuke lost control. Unable to cope with the idea that this new important person could die, and he wouldn't be strong enough to protect him, Sasuke ended the partnership, fully believing it would be for the better. Sara didn't take this too gracefully, but laden with guilt, Sasuke hasn't refuted the king's public claims.
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SHIBUYA YUURI | WEAPON
He is Saralegui's most important person, and Sasuke knows his partner might throw almost anything away for him, regardless of what he might say. Saralegui has confessed he thinks of Yuuri as a friend, and while Sasuke knows this might have somethiing to do with the power Yuuri has in his own world- he can also tell it's more than that.
Yuuri is a kind soul to the point of being too kind. He is too naive, and it worries Sasuke sometimes that a king could be so easily swayed and convinced of things that aren't necessarily true. It's difficult to hate someone with such a big heart, and while Sasuke doesn't dislike him, he has made no effort to get to know him. But with Yuuri living with he and Saralegui, it's almost unavoidable. He expects, also, that Yuuri might know more about him than he lets on, since he was one of the people that went to the future. Nothing was expressly said, but Sasuke knows something happened to him in that time, and he knows it's something Yuuri took to heart to change. Not only for Sasuke, but for that future.
His passion reminds Sasuke of Naruto's affection for Konoha, and he recognizes that this is probably what makes him a good king.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
ROY MUSTANG | MEISTER
Roy first caught Sasuke's attention because he was a master of hand to hand combat. Sasuke couldn't strike him down the first time they sparred, and it sparked a desire to keep coming back for more. As the first person Sasuke couldn't defeat in Death City, it has become his goal to surpass Roy Mustang in battle.
These endeavors have somehow led Sasuke to have a bizarre respect for the man. He leads the Watch, and leads it well. He takes care of his people and doesn't leave anyone behind. He also bites off more than he can chew at times, and Sasuke has found himself volunteering information about himself and situations that he wouldn't normally hand over to anyone. Though he doesn't teach Sasuke to fight, emotionally and in topics of logic, Roy has become something of a mentor, and Sasuke has never found himself to turn down the man's company.
● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○
YAO WONG (CHINA) | WEAPON
China has become Sasuke's literal sensei in the way of hand to hand combat. His style of fighting is similar to what Sasuke knows, and having literally centuries of experience, has been a very wise and very talented teacher. He's a very strange person; his personality is large, and he speaks with a sort of lilt that might make it hard for people to understand him-- but Sasuke has since learned to decipher is almost cryptic way of speaking. He can read China through how he fights, and though they don't necessarily speak very often, Sasuke has no problem seeking out his company, or spending hours training with him.
● ● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○
KUROSAWA REI | MEISTER
Rei Kurosawa is a dedicated woman. She came from a terrifying place filled with terrifying experiences and it has left her scarred in a way Sasuke can resonate with. She is maternal and kind, but straight to the point when it it is necessary. Sasuke has become extremely attached to her, though he might not show it on the outside, and he certainly didn't mean to do it. She reminds him of the mother he lost, and though it isn't something he actively thinks of, he has a deep rooted desire to protect her and keep her from harm's way. He's fully aware she isn't helpless, but the urge is one he can't suppress.
● ● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○
AOYAGI SEIMEI | MEISTER
This man promised Sasuke power, and during a wavelength attack, Sasuke agreed to terms he never would have without seriously thinking it over. Seimei carved his power word, BELOVED, into Sasuke's skin and granted him the boost he'd swore to give. The only problem was that as soon as the Wavelength attack was over, the bond snapped, and Sasuke was sent into a spiral of devastating depression. What he hadn't fully comprehended was the power behind the Fighter/Sacrifice pairing. That the bond meant a fullfillment and a dependency that, once taken away, left a person broken and wishing for death.
Sasuke, in that time, felt the devastation of losing his family all over again; but without the desire for revenge. He spent over a week recuperating, a time during which Seimei tried to tempt him back, and Naruto refused to let Sasuke comply.
Since then, Sasuke has rejected him as the Meister he could have been to the ninja, but Sasuke still feels the pull from time to time. The one the bond created and the one it shattered. Sasuke knows it isn't real, that it was something fabricated, but it doesn't change how he feels. He hates himself for falling for it, and he hates Seimei for making him feel this way- especially when, to Sasuke, it's clearly obvious that Seimei cares only for what he can manipulate. However Sasuke can't really call him on anything, and as such, can only watch him from a distance.
● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
AOYAGI RITSUKA | MEISTER
This boy is the elusive little brother Sasuke has heard so frequently about from Seimei. Since his arrival, Sasuke hasn't seen much of him, but he has a great curiousity about him, and his relationship with the elder Aoyagi. He also can't help but wonder just what Seimei hasn't been telling the kid.
○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
SOHKI | MEISTER
Sasuke started talking to Sohki because he was the only person in Death City who could brew a decent cup of tea. While peculiar, Sasuke was still curious about him, and didn't mind sharing tea with him once in a while. When he'd first arrived it was the most normal thing Sasuke had encountered, and it was something of a comfort. They even briefly fought together during a Witch attack.
But during a gala that was held, Sohki accidentally gave him tea that left him a little inebriated. A concoction from a fair that, whether because he is human or only a child, affected Sasuke more than expected. Thinking he'd done it on purpose, Sasuke raged and nearly sought out retribution. But Sohki explained it, and then explained that he himself wasn't human and therefore couldn't have known the effects would have been the same. He seemed genuine. And not long after, he brought Sasuke a gift from Japan: a kunai. Sasuke's first real weapon in a place where weapons didn't really seem to exist.
While Sasuke can't bring himself to fully forgive Sohki, and can't quite bring himself to trust him the same way he once had, he still puts up with the kirin. Tentatively, they've started sharing tea again, and Sasuke has grudgingly, slowly, been accepting him back into his life.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
COUNT D | MEISTER
To Sasuke, the Count is almost creepy. He has a strange smile and a strange way of talking and knows things he shouldn't know. Sasuke thought this was all there was to him until he saw his facade break; first with the arrival of someone he knew and next with the expression of love he directed towards animals.
There's much more to D than meets the eye, and Sasuke can't help but be curious about it. However, he doesn't trust the guy almost in the slightest, even if he was partners with Sohki before the kirin returned.
● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
KURAPIKA | WEAPON
A fellow Weapon who's story is startlingly similar to his own; complete with eye techniques and a quest for revenge. For Sasuke, this has driven a wedge of familiarity between them, and in some ways he is almost more comfortable speaking to Kurapika about things regarding his family than he is with anyone else. The only difference is that Kurapika faces a different sort of conflict over the person he vowed revenge on: they are partners, and his rival and enemy seems to be losing his desire to view Kurapika as an opponent.
Though Sasuke can't assist in explaining the feelings of inadequacy and lost confusion Kurapika seems to have, Sasuke can commiserate in some way. He sees aspects of his relationship with Naruto and Itachi in this relationship with Kurapika and Kuroro, and it keeps Sasuke coming back to lend his company to Kurapika. Since the trip to the Maldives they've become closer and more has come to light about their respective situations, and as of late, this budding relationship has only become more cemented. Sasuke trusts Kurapika, which is more than he can say for most.
● ● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○
KURORO LUCIFER | MEISTER
He lied to Sasuke when it first arrived in Death City, and therefore Sasuke doesn't like him on principle. The guy is kind of a creep, but he's Kurapika's rival and clearly important to him- whether through animosity or otherwise, Sasuke can't tell. He puts up with this guy and regards him with a suspicious eye, but hasn't said anything. He is, apparently, very talented when it comes to fighting, and Sasuke can't help but grudgingly respect him for it.
● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
FABIOLA IGLESIAS | MEISTER
text.
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SHINSUKE TAKASUGI | WEAPON
text.
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KARKAT VANTAS | WEAPON
text.
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RIKU | WEAPON
text.
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KOZATO ENMA | WEAPON
For the life of him, Sasuke can't quite figure out exactly who this kid is. At first he seemed weak, someone who could be walked on and was more clumsy and more useless than Naruto could ever be. Sasuke might have pitied him, and wasn't really keen on giving him the time of day- until he showed that he had a backbone. It was hidden, and Enma also proved that he had a brain. That sparked Sasuke's curiousity. They partnered up for a mission, and the fact that they could resonate cemented in Sasuke's mind that there was more to Enma than met the eye. He still hasn't been able to wrap his head around him, but Sasuke has decided Enma isn't as pathetic as he appears, and that makes him worth Sasuke's time.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
ARISATO MINATO | MEISTER
When Sasuke took it upon himself to search the desert for those kidnapped, the person who offered him the most support was Minato. This was Sasuke's first foray into leadership, and though they were leading two separate teams, they worked well enough together. It would have solely been a professional relationship, until Minato sought him out in the aftermath. He said some things that really struck Sasuke, and though they weren't things Sasuke ever intended to bring up again, they did make him think. Sasuke was more than willing to assist Minato if the opportunity arose. When he was sent home, it yet again came as a surprise to Sasuke. Though it couldn't necessarily be said that he misses him, the relationship has still stuck with him, and the loss is one that can be felt in regards to the war. So in that respect, it is one Sasuke notices.
➣➣
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
TSUKUYO | MEISTER
text.
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HISOKA | MEISTER
This man is met with immediate suspicion, as Sasuke's first interaction with him was after he'd broken into his apartment to spy on Yuuri and Saralegui. He attempted to chase him out, and ended up being toyed with, since Hisoka's abilities outmatched Sasuke's in close combat. It rubbed Sasuke in all the wrong ways, and so he's been added to the Uchiha's hit list. He keeps an eye out for him the same way he does anyone he dislikes with any sort of intensity.
● ● ● ○ ○ ○ ○ ○
EDWARD ELRIC | SENT HOME
Before being sent home, Edward was someone his own age that Sasuke could collaborate on an intelligent level about battle strategies. He had interesting ways of thinking, did something similar to jutsu back in his own world, and held a stubborn, determined passion that Sasuke could relate to. Though they weren't necessarily friends by the definition of the word, they spoke on a regular basis, and where Edward went out of his way to talk to Sasuke- the ninja did the same towards him.
In his last days in the city, when Sasuke was still recovering, they spent a day together keeping Sasuke distracted and talking. Sasuke told him of his brother, Edward told him of Winry, who had also disappeared. Edward vanished from the city before Winry could return, and Sasuke took it upon himself to seek her out and tell her.
Though it was probably something simple, Sasuke was surprised to find himself almost missing Edward's company. He was, likely, the first person Sasuke stared forming a bond with since he'd left Konoha and arrived in Death City. They were closer than Sasuke realized, and he was the ninja's first loss of someone from Nevada.
➣➣
● ● ● ● ● ○ ○ ○
KILLUA ZOLDYCK | SENT HOME
Young and loudmouthed Sasuke had every intention of putting this kid in his place- until Sasuke realized he was just that: a kid. He liked ice cream, he liked pranks and playing, he bet Sasuke over food about a fight-- which, in retrospect, wasn't that unusual to what Sasuke has done before. But though he seemed young, Sasuke won't judge a person solely on age, and it was for good reason. Killua proved to be a talented fighter, and he had a knack for making weapons (namely bombs) out of household items. He could have been a real asset, and he was meant to spar with Sasuke- before he was sent home. The second loss Sasuke has faced, and he feels more annoyed by it than anything else.
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ERIDAN AMPORA | SENT HOME
Guy thinks he's tough shit, and Sasuke only had to roll his eyes when it first came up. He was well convinced he was just an idiot with a big mouth who was all bark and no bite. Though he's one of those Trolls and while some of them seem to be a threat, Sasuke just can't bring himself to take this guy seriously. Sasuke hasn't really gone out of his way to talk to this guy again, but he does know Saralegui and he interact, and it's enough for Sasuke to be primed for anything. They are signed on for a fight, and though Sasuke takes the fight seriously, he still views Eridan as being beneath him, and as someone who needs to learn to keep his trap shut.
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