"Assistance. Not servitude." He made sure that distinction was clear. Itachi had something of a solo mindset, though he did know how to be subservient. He simply didn't owe any allegiance to this man. They were on equal footing.

"I'm offering you a hand if it's needed. I'm sure if the project is yours then it will be done to your specifications." The insistence did beg the next question: "Have you had trouble working with others here before?"