The Magician

It's time to tap into your full potential without hesitation. Remember you are powerful, create your own inner world and the outer will follow.

Upright: Willpower, Desire, Creation, Manifestation

Reverse: Trickery, Illusions

"Great job Sakura! You really are improving," Shizune praises the girl as she cups a small ball of fire in her palms.

"Thank you, professor," Sakura smiles, however her break in concentration causes the little flame to puff out leaving a wisp of smoke trailing upwards.

"You really have grown since my first class with you all those weeks ago, but what can I expect with the Hokage herself training you," the professor rises from her spot on the floor, cleaning up the small practice room using her own magic. "Before I head out, do you have any questions about the elementals spells we practiced?"

Sakura ponders over the lesson she had just completed, it wasn't anything too strenuous, but manipulating each of the elements did call for its own unique style. Water needed her movements to be fluid and smooth, earth required stern, deliberate motions, while fire required her words to be sharp and wild.

Alone with Shizune, this is the perfect opportunity to get some insight in all the things she's experienced recently. She thinks of the boy she met in the basement, of the graveyard, and all the other things that took place the previous night. So many questions run through her mind, but she decides to start with an easy one.

"Professor Orochimaru was speaking with me about dreams the other day and I decided to use a spell in an attempt to figure out some more about the… strange ones I've had lately," She pauses, thinking of the best way to phrase this. "About Sasuke." It's not a question, but Shizune nods in understanding.

"While you have advanced very well own your own, it's no secret to the other professors that you and Sasuke's partner skills are still severely lacking."

Sakura bows her head, feeling ashamed that the reputable instructors at the academy have all noticed the drama between her and her partner.

"Your bodies are trying to draw each other together, it's very common in Match's that aren't progressing in their bond as they should," she rests a comforting hand on Sakura's shoulder, obviously sympathetic to her situation. "Sasuke has most likely been experiencing similar dreams."

Sakura shivers as she thinks of his nightmare she had wandered into last night. Why would their bond be showing both of them Sasuke killing her? Is it trying to warn them about something?

"I know it seems odd," Shizune continues, "but the dreams aren't always sexual in nature, they manifest in the way both of your minds are most driven."

Sakura's head snaps up quickly, a blush splashing her cheeks. She's not sure how to respond to the statement; it seems that Shizune believes she's referencing a different type of dream. Yeah, they've touched in them occasionally, when Sasuke's not stabbing or strangling her, but they've never felt sexual.

Mistaking the girl's silence as confirmation, the professor resumes her teachings. "It's nothing to be embarrassed about, after all, you are both young adults. It's normal to be craving that type of intimate bond with somebody that's meant to be such a considerable part of your life."

Eager to divert the conversation with her teacher away from sex, even though it's not relevant to her and Sasuke's situation, she changes the topic. "I think I went into one of Sasuke's dreams during my spell last night and saw some things from his past." She shivers at the thought of the graveyard. "His family, they're dead aren't they?"

"Dreamwalking," Shizune ponders for a moment, "Not very common among partners, but not unheard of especially if spells are involved." She whips out a piece of paper and jots down a quick note before pocketing it and returning her attention to the student. "Death, unfortunately, is very common among the Uchiha line. They're an old family born with high reservoirs of power, but that's not always a positive thing in our community. Much tragedy and loss has occurred in their household, but that's not my story to tell." A sad smile appears on the instructor's face, it's clear that's all she'll say on the matter. "Anything else?"

Sakura thinks about Naruto and considers mentioning something, but she's not sure exactly how she'd phrase that. Why is there a kid with an evil demon in his stomach locked in the basement? She shakes her head at how ridiculous it sounds. No, that seems more like a question for Tsunade; it'll just have to wait until after the Hokage returns from her trip.

"I'll take my leave then, try to rest a little before your lesson with Sasuke. You'll have a new proctor today and he can be a bit of a loose cannon."

After thanking the mild-mannered lady, Sakura walks back to her dorm taking the advice to heart. She's exhausted after performing so many spells and with a little less than an hour before having to meet for a private partner lesson, she'd really like to take a nap.

No surprise that after the events of last night Sakura didn't fall back to sleep upon returning to her dorm room. Instead she tried to do as much reading as possible on magical seals and their properties. Not really learning anything new and seeing no images that matched the one on Naruto's torso left her a bit disheartened, but she's still determined to learn more about what exactly is going on with her new blonde friend.

She pauses once reaching her dorm. It's been rather hit or miss lately in relation to Ino's mood. Never quite sure what type of warzone to expect behind the door ever since the breakup, Sakura leans her ear against it to see if she can hear anything. There's only silence on the other side so she takes that as a sign that it's safe to go in and slowly opens the door.

"Sakura!" Ino yells out in glee, "Oh my gosh, you look exhausted! Do you want me to make you some tea?"

"Uh," Sakura is at a loss for words as she steps inside. The room is in perfect order, the window's open letting in the red glow of the sunset and all traces of tissue boxes and cookie dough wrappers have disappeared. "I'm okay. You seem awfully happy." Even though her roommate had been slowly getting over the events of her heartbreak, Sakura didn't expect Ino to be quite this chipper.

"Yes! Oh, it was amazing!" She does a little spin and smiles widely as she begins boiling water in a mug she holds in her hands. "I was so upset in the dining room this morning, the couple-that-will-not-be-named was sitting in front of me and had the nerve to actually make out right there while everybody is trying to eat."

Sakura rolls her eyes slightly and the blonde mockingly gags; before the breakup there had been more than one occasion when Ino would do the exact same thing. It wasn't exactly what Sakura wanted to witness while attempting to enjoy her breakfast.

"I couldn't do anything; I was so upset. I was almost on the verge of tears when this little puppy stumbles into me. He was so cute he made my whole day so much better." She hands the cup of brewing tea to Sakura before picking up a pillow and squeezing it to her chest. "Anyways I was trying to find who summoned him and this guy walks up, and we start talking." Her eyelashes flutter a little. "He's so handsome and rugged and says that he knew I was upset so he summoned the puppy to make me feel better."

Ino flops back on her bed, and Sakura finally notices the single rose resting on her comforter.

"His name's Kiba and we have a date tomorrow night," the witch sighs contently as she strokes the flower petals.

"That's great Ino," Sakura tries to sound excited for her friend, but honestly she's absolutely drained from the events of the past 24 hours.

Ino sits up, her smile falling a little bit. "Are you okay?"

This time it's Sakura's turn to plop onto her bed, laying her head down she rests her eyes lightly. "Yeah, just the same old stuff with Sasuke."

She hadn't felt like confiding in her friend about her numerous murders at the hands of her Match and now doesn't really feel like the right time.

"Well, that's an Uchiha for you," Ino mutters under her breath as she begins moving around the room in the whirlwind. Before Sakura even realizes what is happening, Ino has a chalkboard with a pentagram drawn on it placed on the ground, with a red ribbon lying in the center. The blonde's eyes glaze over as she begins chanting rhythmically. She summons a small fire and engulfs the rose she just received in flames.

"Ino, what are you doing?" Sakura asks as the smoke coming from the flower takes on a menacing scarlet color, a strange scent wafting from it.

"Shhh," the blonde snaps. "I'm helping you."

At that, Sakura keeps her mouth shut. The dangers of interrupting a spell had been one of her first lessons at the academy, not to mention the dangers of defying Ino.

Soon enough, her roommate finishes her chant and the flame snuffs out, the odd red smoke dissipating. "Here," the young witch says with a mischievous wink as she hands Sakura the ribbon, "Wear this the next time you see Sasuke, it'll help."

Reluctantly, Sakura wraps the ribbon beneath her hair. She thinks of the ways she can discreetly stash it away without Ino noticing, but a glance at the clock jolts her to her feet. So much for wanting a little nap. She shouts a little thank you at her roommate before taking the familiar path to the large practice chamber.

As per usual, she's the first one there and begins lighting the numerous candles that encircle the dark room. Incense meant to increase magic fluidity burns in the corner, filling the room with its spicy scent. Just when Sakura is about to light the last candle, it flickers on its own and a small piece of paper flutters out.

"Sakura and Sasuke,

Running late, please practice warm up exercises until I arrive. – J"

Who's J? Sakura thinks and remembers Shizune's words about having a new lesson leader today. However, panic quickly begins to replace confusion as she realizes that she'll now have to face Sasuke one on one after invading his nightmare last night. Other than the whole 'being murdered' part, it wasn't a horrible experience, after all, she feels she gained a lot of insight on her partner, however, it's very likely that he'll be angry when he realizes what exactly occurred.

"What's that?"

Sakura jumps at the voice and spins around, not realizing that Sasuke has entered the room. She regains her composure and hands him the note. Irritation rests on his face as he reads it.

Removing her gloves, Sakura resumes her normal position, cross-legged on the dais. With little more than a word, her partner joins her but remains silent.

"What would you want to practice?" she asks.

His eyes lock with her and she's frozen for a moment, remembering the nearness of them yesterday, the new colors that she hadn't noticed before. She must be making an odd expression, she's never been good at hiding her thoughts, because a dark eyebrow quirks up in curiosity.

"What?" he questions.

Maybe this is her chance, she could ask him about the nightmare, about his fear of her dying or maybe his thoughts on why he subconsciously continues to murder her. But instead, the worse thing she could possibly say rushes from her mouth.

"Who's Itachi?"

Those dark eyes widen marginally in shock, before narrowing in an expression of pure hate. He jumps to his feet and moves towards the doorway before Sakura can even blink.

"Wait!" she yells as she jumps up to stop him. "You have to talk to me. Let me help you! I don't know anything about you and we're running out of time."

Sasuke turns to face her. "You don't get it. There is no 'we,' being Matched doesn't mean anything. I don't need to tell you anything and you certainly can't help me. I can do this on my own."

The words sting and Sakura's taken aback. What exactly has he been trying to do? He has so many secrets, so much history that he doesn't believe she's privy to. Everything she knows about him she had to find out for herself. This is not a partnership, and there's no way for it to become that with his damned stubbornness.

"Listen here, asshole!" she yells, her face beginning to burn with her temper as her anger bubbles over. Here she has been working day and night, trying to make up for her powers emerging late, doing everything she can to make this work, and what has he been doing? Nothing. Nothing but keeping secrets and toying with her. "I have put up with all of the shitty things you have thrown at me since I've been here. I get that you don't like me, but we're stuck together whether you like it or not."

Angrily, his gloved hand wraps around her wrist. He pulls her close to his face and looks into her eyes. "You know nothing," he practically spits out before roughly pushing her away from him.

Without even thinking, Sakura slaps him across the face, too angry - at his words, his actions, everything - to care that she has never done anything like that before in her life. However, the moment the back of her hand connects with his cheek, a wave of heat washes over her. She takes a step back, shocked. Looking up, she sees Sasuke's stern features soften.

Instead of anger, a different type of intensity burns in those eyes, those dark, hypnotic eyes. Of course, she has always found her Match attractive, but now she truly takes the time to appreciate the strong jaw line, the curve of his nose, the dark eyebrows.

He's wearing a long-sleeved black t-shirt that clings to his strong arms. His gloves hide his hands, but she knows from their sessions that the skin is soft and smooth, despite the pale scarring that travels up his wrist. She reaches up and touches his cheek gently, brushing her fingers over the enflamed skin where her blow had made contact. She expects him to shrink back, but instead his arms wrap around her waist, holding her secure against him. Sakura finds herself pressing into his body, wanting to feel more of him against her. His hands travel down her back to the curve of her hips. She feels as if she's dying of thirst and he is a cool spring, his body a balm to her aches. Not being able to stop herself, Sakura leans forward and crashes her mouth to his.

He must have let his guard down because, instantly, she is hit with his thoughts. As she feels his soft lips on her own, she feels his own sensations. One of his hands moves up to cup her cheek. She notices he's removed his gloves and shudders as she revels in the skin to skin contact. Like her own, his thoughts are muddled but a strong sense of need pushes through him. Sakura jumps up and wraps her legs around his waist, taking pleasure in the way his hands move to grasp beneath her thighs. Their bodies resonate with passion. Not a want, a carnal need. They need each other.

Sasuke moves his mouth to her jaw line and she groans slightly as she tips her head back for better access. His lips travel down her neck and goosebumps run down Sakura's body. She curls her toes at the sensation of him breathing on her sensitive skin. Her hands run up to his hair where she presses him harder to her. She continues traveling through his thoughts, feeling the sensation from both ends. She almost goes into a trance at the pleasure, her body and mind humming in approval.

The temperature of the room feels like it has increased tenfold. Sakura briefly opens her eyes to find the flames of the candles shooting straight up in the air, their intensity fueled by the passion of the magicians. It all is so much. She feels Sasuke move against her and a fire ignites within her. She needs him to extinguish it.

Both are so caught up in the moment that they don't notice the puff of smoke and the man that now stands in the room.

"And here everybody said you guys weren't getting along," the masculine voice booms.

Suddenly Sakura finds herself on the ground, Sasuke's back turned to her at the complete opposite side of the room. Between them stands a large man with long white hair.

"I'm Professor Jiraiya," he extends a hand to her and helps her up from the ground. Her cheeks flush in embarrassment as she realizes how she just acted, how the professor had found them.

"I think this is your problem," Jiraiya removes the ribbon from Sakura's hair. "Whoever enchanted this did a decent job at it. You're lucky I got here when I did."

He holds the ribbon over one of the candles, the flame back to a normal height, and it catches fire. Sakura stares, the scent it emits as it curls into nothing is intoxicating.

A door slams as Sasuke exits the room, snapping Sakura from her trance.

Nope, she thinks to herself, jumping up from her spot on the marble. He does not get to just ignore that. Sakura races out of the room after him, her eyes taking a moment to adjust to the brightness of the corridor, bathed in the pink of the sunset, after being in the dark, firelight of the practice room. She finds him beginning a teleportation spell, but she's able to grab a hold of his arm at the right moment, sending her with him.

Her stomach drops and she feels a brief moment of weightlessness before her feet hit the ground. Falling to her knees painfully, she looks around the strange place she finds herself in. It's a dark, dusty room with creaky wooden floorboards. It takes her a moment to realize she's not in another dream. Sasuke's dark form is on the ground to her right, his head in his hands and his breathing labored.

She moves towards him, in attempt to comfort him, but his voice stops her.

"Stay away," he rasps out, as if in pain.

Teleportation is not an easy feat and can leave an unprepared caster feeling faint and shaky. Even if Sasuke is adept at transporting himself, he did not expect the effort that came with bringing along an unexpected passenger.

"Sasuke, please just let me help you." Sakura begins moving closer to him but his hand juts out as a warning.

"I said stay away, Sakura." Knowing she's pushed him too far for one day, she obliges, remaining on the other side of the room.

Glancing around, she notices the wood beneath her is stained dark and she shudders at the thought of what it could be. She knows it's a long-abandoned home, the layer of dust had to have been accumulated over some time. Unexpectantly, her thoughts drift to the tombstones from the night before, to the words Shizune had spoken about the Uchiha family.

"Did your family die here?" she guesses, surprising herself for the second time today.

"Don't talk," Sasuke whispers. It doesn't come out cruel or as an order, but almost as if he's begging her, pain clearly evident. "Just take a hold of my hands."

He must seriously be hurting if he's decided to illicit her help. Sakura's concerned now, but quickly kneels next to him and holds out her hands. He grasps them, his skin warm despite the cool of the room. As Sasuke lets out a gasp of relief, Sakura's body hums with the familiar prickling feeling of her magic moving through her as it flows into her Match. This time is much different than any before. She feels the mingling with his own power, as if a coolness is rushing back towards her.

He begins chanting an incantation and she realizes that rather than just using her reservoir to strengthen himself, he's merged their power to teleport again. "I need your help," he admits under his breath.

Sakura realizes what she has to do and begins speaking the spell along with him. She knows the words, having read up on teleportation spells before, but she's never executed one. Rather than the strange pressure she experiences during their training sessions, Sakura feels as though her whole body is humming. This is how partner magic is meant to feel. This is why the Matches are so important to magician society.

It doesn't feel foreign or awkward, it feels right, it feels… powerful.

Upon their merging, she finds herself in his mind once again, but this time it's clearer. She can make out actual thoughts. It's almost like wandering through a dark hallway with each memory being a room with an open door. Curiously she walks on, peeking her head in a few. They are just little things like classes or mealtimes. But then she stumbles across something odd, three large doors suspended in an empty space, each with dark engravings that practically burn on the surface.

The aura in this room is different. Dark and menacing, it seems forbidden in a way. Mist curls around her ankles, concealing the dark surface she stands on. She hesitates for a moment; does she really want to do this? It seems as if Sasuke went through great lengths to keep this part of his mind concealed. She thinks to his yelling from earlier, about how he's trying to accomplish something other than their partnership. This could be her only chance to find out more.

She reaches towards one of the doors, pressing her hand against it. The markings shutter and begin to shift, leaving no trace on the dark wood. Sakura begins to push the door open but only finds darkness. She steps forward, looking back to make sure the doorway is still there.

It's dead silent, almost as if she has wandered into a vacuum of space. Then the air is gone from her lungs, as if the darkness is suffocating her. She gasps, attempting to take a breath. Then as quickly as it came, the sensation is gone. She collapses to the ground, gasping for the oxygen, worried it might go away again. Her lungs burn as she quickly fills them, panic clawing up her throat. She wants to stand, but she feels as if she's glued to the floor.

She yells for help, anxious to be out of this situation, but she stops when she hears another woman's scream cut through the darkness. It is gut wrenching and despairing, but what makes it far worse is the words it forms.

"No, Sasuke, please don't kill me!"

A/N: hey guys, sorry this chapter took so long to update. With all the COVID stuff going on, like most people, I've been swamped. For those that don't know, I'm a pharmacy student so on top of my class workload doubling due to the online transition, I also have been working at my pharmacy more due to increased demand and co-workers falling ill. Every one of you are in my thoughts, I hope you and your families are safe and healthy.