Duration: January 2013
Status: Defunct
Itachi, Kisame, etc - me
Sasuke - silver-phoenix_zaniyah
Comments: ...My ex-bf called me back to a MMO we played together and I forgot about Gaia then after. C'; so I never got to reply /stupid
***
Of course.
If he had nothing to offer, what was stopping his brother from presenting his own?
It was not like him to have a plan and successive steps then after, that is if it was a plan that never crossed his mind. The idea of simply turning their back on everything was one that Itachi never entertained, far too dangerous and difficult. He wasn't getting any better as the days came to past, someday his abuse of the bloodline gifts called the Sharingan would catch to him. How about the fact that practically everyone in the ninja world and their grandmother had heard of his exploits as the clan slayer and Akatsuki member extraordinaire? To add up, it wasn't as if Sasuke had no reputation to speak of as well.
And these cursed feelings...
It might have been partly why the man was more than eager to seemingly walk away and take a passive, background role in Sasuke's life, being a shadow of an existence in his brother's life rather than take a more conscious role. He was afraid, a thing the elite ninja would never openly admit. He was very afraid of his emotions and how it might betray him.
Seeing how much damage today had caused on his psyche, the dark haired Uchiha could only imagine how much more it would take for the rest of his iron resolve to crumble and rust away. Not a scenario he was looking forward to. Someone had to remain strong and absolute in the days to come, for their sake.
"I will come again another day. I believe we need time to consider this. Plan it out properly, Sasuke."
The Akatsuki wasn't quite sure what in the seven seas made him say those words and actually consider the plan. But he did.
The words have been said. There was no taking them back now.
The point of no return had been crossed.
"It is late. I should be heading back before I rouse any suspicion. Kisame is here to pick me up."
***
Sasuke frowned. He sighed softly and dropped the blade. It landed onto the bed. He sighed softly and pulled his knees to his chest. His back was to the door. Of course Itachi said that. Of course he would try to make him feel better. The bottom line was, that he wasn't going to be getting out. He would be stuck here, suffocating in the darkness. The nightmares that clouded his mind. He should have known that Itachi didn't want anything to do with him. If he did, he would have taken him with him. He won't have been so alone. So course not. Sasuke didn't believe a word his brother said, not anymore. "Fine whatever. Do whatever the hell you want." He glared at the wall, feeling tears prickling in his eyes. So this is what it felt like to get fully betrayed by a family member. It was not a pleasant feeling.
Sasuke sighed softly and laid down on the bed. He frowned softly, not caring what Itachi did. He didn't even say goodbye to him. Instead he just curled up more, fighting off the urge to cut, to bleed. To wash these horrible memories from his mind. Sasuke truly felt alone in the world. It seemed he was no longer important in anyone's eyes. He reached over and grabbed the blade. He held it above him, watching the fading light reflect off it. This was his new friend. This was his release from the world. This could be his death. At least the blade never let him down, while everyone else did.
***
Itachi frowned at the impassive response. It seemed to have triggered something in him as his darkened eyes automatically turned red. Was it anger? Perhaps. But no. It was not the time it fight. The long haired Uchiha shut his eyes and calmed himself down. What was the boy trying to do... Purposely infuriate him?
"I have some loose ends I need to settle. I will be back. But you must promise me something."
He had his back against the door, arms crossed against his chest and the cursed blade in one hand. It felt cold in his hand as it glistened under the artificial light from the fluorescent lighting overhead. A sigh escaped his lips as he turned to the side, resting his head on the wooden door.
Loose ends. Yes, there was lots of that he had. With Akatasuki. With Konoha. With himself.
***
Sasuke turned towards the closed door. It seemed that Itachi still hadn't found himself inside. He was sure the older raven would break down the door or something. Sighing softly, he shook his head and brushed some hair from his face. His other hand still clutched tightly on a blade. He had yet to decide what to do with hit. Shifting a little, he frowned. What the hell did Itachi want? Why was he even still here? Maybe he reconsidered. No that was him just wishing, but he couldn't squish down the hope that fluttered in his heart. Even though it was near impossible that his wish will come true.
Taking a few breathes, he frowned and nodded his head. He had a feeling he knew what the promise was. The problem was, he didn't think he could stop. "What is this promise you want me to keep?" His voice sounded snappish, but then again Sasuke wasn't in the best of moods at the moment. Anything could set him off right now. It must be, because Sasuke felt he was emotional broken. He held his breath as he waited for his reply.
***
"Love me."
These two words.
Words he had been dying to say for as long as Itachi could remember. Never mind the clan, the village and the rest of the world who rained praises and lavished attention upon him. They did not matter to him. Never did, never will. Words that embodied his wish, perhaps his only wish in this lifetime. One he never thought of actively pursuing, conceded to the fact it was impossible. He was raised to kill and die, bathed in the blood of his village and clan's enemies. There was no way that the Shinobi would allow anyone to carry the burden of grief and constant worry over him. Worse, those who he did love...
Died.
They were barely said, more of a whisper, echoing such need for affection. Yes, Itachi was positively starved for love. Not adoration, not admiration or envy. Love. It sounded simple enough.
"Love me, Sasuke...," The elder Uchiha repeated himself, louder than his first declaration, "You must love me."
It was sinful but it relieved him of so much to finally give life to the emotions he kept so well under wraps for so long. He rarely asked others of what he wanted, needed. Was it so wrong to be selfish now?
And of all people to ask it from.
Sasuke.
He, who broke something, made something crumble from the inside.
Lost and utterly out of plans, back ups and sequence, Itachi decided to finally give in, to surrender and unwittingly place his heart in his brother's hands.
***
Sasuke blinked. He patiently waited for his brother's words, the blade still glinted in the fading light. He blinked shocked as the words crossed his mind. He blinked. That was not what he was expecting. The blade fell from his hands and landed on the ground with a soft thud. He blinked back tears. Nobody had ever asked that before. He blinked, pulling the blankets off his body. He shifted and walked towards the door. His hand shakily grabbed the knob. His mind was racing and his heart was pounding like crazy.
With a few calming breathes, he unlocked the door and opened it. He glanced at Itachi and nodded. "I can do. I never stopped loving you Itachi. No matter how much you tried to get me to hate you. I couldn't hate you. I couldn't break our bond." His voice was shaking a little bit, as he glanced up at his older brother. He wasn't sure how his brother would take it, but he hoped it was good.
***
Then so be it.
His expression melted away, revealing a much more human look and made him seemingly normal.
But alas, what was so ordinary about an Uchiha acting on love?
Nothing at all.
Not for a clan that persisted through the ages that were empowered by the passion and flames for greater things.
For most in their family, they burned for power and prestige. But Itachi, the genius, was different not just in his above average talent, even by clan standards, but in the reason for what he wanted most of all. Originally, it has been his assumption that it was love for the village of Konoha and his clan, that it had been his reason for being. But then Sasuke was born... Konoha and the Uchiha clan were simply not the same in his eyes since then, having been overtaken by the bundle he sought to protect and keep safe.
The elder brother nodded, smiling as he did. He unfolded his arms, resting his palms on the other's shoulders. It was still a marvel to him just how much time had passes. It only seemed like yesterday that he towered over Sasuke. Now they were practically eye to eye. Reminded him that he was older, and that his cute little brother had gotten older, more adult as well... That fact alone was enough to give the spiky haired teen ager a say in things as well.
Perhaps that was why he spontaneously decided to honor such decision, no matter how much the logic of his mind refused to process it.
"I will remember this," he whispered, moving his battle worn hands upward, over his neck and then on his cheeks. "I will never forget this moment."
Itachi closed in on their distance, planting a kiss on the forehead he loved to poke so often while they were younger. But he didn't let the other go, choosing to encircle his arms around Sasuke and hold him close.
Yes, this was exactly as he wanted. There could be nothing better. No doubt.
***
Sasuke's cheeks were a soft red color, as he waited for Itachi to answer him. His heart was pounding, scared of the answer. Instead he waited, stiff glancing up at his older brother. He was almost as tall as him now. He was still a little shorter though, only going to his chin. Still they could almost see eye to eye. He shifted and glanced at his older brother. He was almost holding his breathe. What he said was the absolute truth though. He did love his brother and he couldn't break the bond they shared. He was just worried about Itachi's reaction, even though the older raven made him promise to love him.
Sasuke didn't have to wait much longer, before the older raven wrapped his arms around him. He stiffened at first, as Itachi kissed his forehead. He instantly started to relax, as the older raven wrapped his arms around him. The tension slipped from him as he melted against him. He clung to his older brother, refusing to let him. Sasuke snuggled against him. "Don't leave." He didn't want to be alone again. He wanted this warmth and he wanted this comfort. It hadn't had it in so long, he wanted it badly. So there was no way in hell he was letting Itachi go, if he could help it.
***
He placed a finger on Sasuke's lips, ghosting it over his young brother's mouth and willed him to be quiet. Itachi had a thoughtful look on his face as he shook his head. The man eased them both out of the embrace as he forced the teen to look at him, straight in the eye. He mustered a serious expression this time, dark eyes steeled into a stare and his lips pursed into a thin line.
"Listen to me, Sasuke. Leaving won't be as easy as simply breaking out of here. We need a plan, first and foremost. But I can't do this alone. You have to help me."
As far as the former Anbu was concerned, the place was well secured and for sure, the systems; It would be easy to get out, but the question was how secure would their flight be. He didn't want to take chances or slip up. It had to be the perfect getaway.
***
Sasuke glanced at him. He shifted and gazed at him. He wanted to leave. He wanted to leave with Itachi. He got comfortable and nodded his head. He moved closer to the older raven and pushed against him. "Ok I understand. I'll help you." He then pulled away. He would help his brother. If he could get out, he would be happy. He just needed to figure out a plan.
Then just like that, a plan came to mind. He then grinned and glanced at his brother. "You could just kidnap me. Knock me out and whisk me away." He grabbed a seat and glanced back at the older raven. He wasn't sure if Itachi would like the idea, but he could at least try. Unless Itachi had a better plan, then Sasuke was all ears for it.
***
Itachi resumed his position by the doorframe, crossing his arms across his chest and leaned back. It was good he finally got the boy to see his way and that it would not be easy to accomplish. Should they proceed with their plan, they would have to contend with Konoha at their coat tails and that wasn't exactly the best idea there was. Being a former agent of the ANBU special ops, he knew more than anyone else just how far they could go in the name of the apparent peace. Of course, he had been part of that effort himself.
And it cost him a lot.
The idea made him smile. It even elicited a chuckle from him. Not that he was mocking his brother. Rather it seemed like an idea from a romance novel to him.
"Sasuke, have you been reading cheesy romance novels lately? Though I wouldn't mind doing that. There's no saving my name as it is, I'm the famed clan slayer, right?" He threw his hands in emphasis then walked over to his brother and suddenly grabbed his waist, pulling him close. They stayed like that for a while, looking into each others eyes until the older Uchiha took off and returned to the door frame.
"I'm your older brother, Sasuke. Not your Prince Charming. But we have an idea here at least. Having one more crime to brag about under my belt doesn't sound so nearly as bad."
He looked away, with his head hanged low.
Why was his heart beating so fast right now... Itachi shouldn't have done that.
***
Sasuke blushed deeply. He then shook his head, instantly denying it. "No I have not! I mean maybe I read a few pages, but I haven't!" His cheeks were bright red. He was so embarrassed. There wasn't much he could do, trapped in here. He just conveniently found a romance novel on the table. He wasn't sure how it got there, but hey, he was curious! So he picked it up and read the entire thing. He would never admit that to Itachi though. The older raven was sure to mock him in his apparent tastes. They weren't that bad. He still won't admit it out loud.
He was startled though, when Itachi grabbed his wrist and pulled him close. He blushed deeply and subconsciously pushed closer to the older raven. "You could make it seem like it was someone else. Everyone does think you're dead after all Itachi. They won't connect the dots and say it was you." He was thrilled that his brother agreed with the idea. He couldn't wait, until he got his freedom back. Nobody would miss him. At least he would be with someone that loved him and whom he loved back.
He snuggled closer to Itachi, breathing in his scent. "You maybe my older brother, but you're also my Prince Charming. After all you're getting me out of here, before they decide to execute me." He pushed closer to him. His own heart was hammering in his chest. Would Itachi kiss him? Would he fully get to know Itachi? Sasuke couldn't wait, as some dirty thoughts drifted into his mind. His cheeks flared darkly. Oh god, he hoped that Itachi didn't notice, he was getting on down there.
***
Still laughing, Itachi responded, "Doesn't matter. Still read a romance novel. Bet you skipped the story and went straight for the smut."
It was his every thought and intention to tease his younger brother and hold him close, a mock embrace between the hero and the damsel. But the tables turned and soon Itachi felt the joke was on him. Things didn't look all the better when his more than brotherly affections for the boy surface, a sigh escaping his pale lips when they were merely a hair's breadth apart from one another. Yes, Sasuke was all grown up... All grown up and beautiful. It was not too hard to see how much his younger brother had aged with grace and charm. Especially this up close.
He unconsciously raised his other hand to brush his fingertips on the boy's cheeks and stiffened when the teenager closed in on their distance. Not good at all.
It was so hard to push away now, to just stop and...
Not when it seemed to easy to just take the boy's mouth and cover it with his.
"So, if I'm your Prince Charming, if you so insist... You're my princess? Oh, Sasuke...," The elder Uchiha smiled darkly, so wickedly handsome as he moved to cup his brother's cheek, "We're not children anymore... We can't play house like we used to."
Sasuke was blushing. Those cheeks were flushed red, a deep shade of scarlet. A flaming mirror of the soft pink on his own face.
It couldn't be---Itachi pushed the hopeful thoughts aside. It couldn't have been mutual, could it?
***
Sasuke glanced at him. His own cheeks were bright red. He shifted a little and glanced at Itachi. He couldn't stop the red from flooding his cheeks. "Who says we're too old." He glanced up and looked at Itachi in his eyes. He wanted to kiss him. Sasuke wasn't sure why, he just wanted to kiss the older raven. He wanted to be held close and never let go. Maybe he was harboring deep feelings for Itachi. It wasn't like Sasuke was stopping it. He just felt comfortable, that was all.
Sasuke moved closer to him and sighed softly. He loved Itachi's scent. It was so intoxicating it. It warmed his mind and it made him feel so warm and comfortable. He wore a soft smile on his face. "You smell wonderful. You're scent always keeps me calm." He chuckled softly, remembering some of his childhood. Yes Sasuke had stolen pieces if Itachi's clothing when his brother was on mission. It helped him sleep at night. He wasn't sure if Itachi ever did notice. He never did call Sasuke on it though.
***
His brother's not too subtle advances in his responses were not lost on Itachi.
Why did it have to be so difficult... Sasuke was not helping at all. It would have been easier if the boy didn't seem to reciprocate his feelings. Did his brother realize the delicate position they were both in now?
The long haired Uchiha found himself in a tight spot now. He found himself holding his breath, holding on to what little of his iron will he had left in his system. With gritted teeth, he pulled away finally and smiled, a soft weak smile of sorts.
"Well, then... Princess," the word felt strange on his tongue somehow but nice nonetheless. "Prince Charming is tired and will need time to raise his army for your sake. He will do it within the soonest possible time though, rest assured."
Itachi could feel the strain of his feelings weigh heavy on his shoulders already. It was well beyond his limits and if the boy dared to do anything more, he might as well break out of tune and his morals be damned. The fine line of sanity and insanity never felt so thin than now.
"You do trust your Prince on this, right?"
He wanted to go already. He wanted to run away and compose himself once more.
***
Sasuke could feel Itachi tensing underneath him. He frowned. What was wrong with his brother? He seemed so composed at first. So what happened? Was it something that Sasuke did? He was pretty sure he was bearing his feelings on his sleeve for his brother to read. It seemed that Itachi was to dense to notice or he was trying hard not to break. Sasuke frowned. Why couldn't his brother grab what he wanted already? It wasn't that hard. It wasn't like Sasuke was going to fight him. No it would be the opposite. He would welcome it with open arms. He already knew his feelings went past brotherly love. It was the main reason why he quit trying to kill his older sibling. He just couldn't do it anymore. Revenge wasn't what he wanted. No that wasn't what he was. He learned that the hard way, with his stay with Orochimaru. Not like he would reveal anything to his brother about what happened.
Shaking his head, he let Itachi pull away from him. He sighed softly. "Yeah ok. I totally understand. You do know, you need to hurry up. I want to get out of here as soon as possible. Before everyone decides to have my head on a pike." He pulled away from Itachi and flopped down on his bed. Why couldn't Itachi see how much Sasuke wanted him. It was so blindly obvious. It was annoying. Well he figured he would let his brother go. He just hoped he would be back soon.
***
The man laughed, nodding as he did and let out a sigh of relief. He felt better now, sensing that he was free of whatever control Sasuke had over him and his better judgment coming back now.
"Of course. I wouldn't want you to wait either. Impatience does not suit us both."
He kept his distance this time, and mastered himself, his impulses and clenched his fist at the idea of giving his brother a kiss on the forehead before he went.
"Same here."
Itachi snapped his head towards the familiar voice from the window of Sasuke's bedroom.
"Guys, I've been sitting here watching you play husband and wife, with squabbles to boot. I'm out of snacks and I'm itching to leave already. So go kiss your goddamn girlfriend and let's go."
Right, he asked Kisame to pick him up after he asked his partner to do some snooping of his own in his home town. Seeing the ex-Mist nin enter the room via the window, mind you it was shut prior, with a dango stick dangling from his sharpened teeth, Itachi couldn't feel more relieved and happy that his partner just had the most impeccable timing.
Then it dawned upon him just what the man had said.
If looks could kill, Kisame was dead meat.
Ignoring his partner's angry look, the taller Akatsuki member let out a loud yawn, stretching his arms as he did and turned to the bed. "Hi. I've heard a lot about you. Sasuke right?" There was an emphasis on 'a lot'.
***
Sasuke shifted. He sighed softly. His brother was really dense it seemed. Maybe he had to kiss the older raven. He didn't dwell on it much longer, before another presence made itself known. A blush flared up in Sasuke's cheeks. He shifted and looked away from him. He didn't mind it that much, being Itachi's girlfriend. Ok maybe not girlfriend, but boyfriend would be sweet. Still his older brother wasn't making the first move. Maybe Sasuke would have to bed. How else would Itachi know how he felt.
With that set in mind, he got up. He glanced towards Kisame.His blushed more as the shark commented on him. "Well I haven't heard anything about you. Sorry." He then looked away from the male and walked over to Itachi. He would do it. He didn't care. He would freaking do it. He reached up and pulled the older raven down. Before Itachi could say anything or protest, Sasuke kissed his older brother on the lips. He blushed deeply. Oh god, Itachi tasted better then he imagined.
***
Kisame feigned hurt at the younger Uchiha's blunt reply. That trademark Uchiha arrogance. The boy definitely had it in him. The swordsman made a seat out of the window pane, resting some of his weight on him as he turned his gaze on Itachi, using his eyes to prod his partner to action. It was late. The others would surely worry and/or be suspicious, either way, their tardiness would not be looked upon so lightly.
"Ok. I lied. I still have one more---HOLY SHI!!!"
The last dango stick fell from the man's grasp when he saw Itachi, was that really Itachi even?, pulled down from the doorframe and thrown on the bed. From how he saw it where he was perched, the Uchiha had been taken off guard and was not able to react quickly enough when Sasuke climbed on top of him and descended his lips, pressing them on Itachi's.
Shock quickly turned into amusement, a huge grin on Houzuki's features as he let out a low chuckle. "Well, this isn't quite exactly how I expected it..."
But at least he could very well his partner was living out a fantasy here. Just not the way Itachi would've wanted for things to progress. He would know.
Itachi tasted sweet, like sugar and rice. He had a small dinner of riceballs filled with egg and meat before coming to visit his younger brother.
"Looks like you got some spunk in you after all, kid."
The ex-Mist nin grinned as he picked the fallen dango, huffing as he threw it in his paper bag and tucked it inside his cloak. He turned to his partner who didn't look too great, despite having the boy practically all over him. Wasn't this the flesh and meat of the Uchiha's fantasies? Well pretty much...
Itachi had stiffened, with a deep shade of red coloring his cheeks as he laid there, seemingly letting Sasuke take the lead and do as he pleased.
He knew his partner was quite the social retard but he didn't think it would be this bad. It looked like the ex-Anbu was fumbling for words, for a response... something, anything what to do with this.
***
Sasuke blushed deeply. He was definitely being bold. However Itachi would have never gotten it either way. So with strength he didn't know he had, he had managed to threw Itachi onto the bed and climbed onto him. He then deeply kissed him and grinded against him. He then pulled away for air. His cheeks were bright red. Sasuke couldn't believe he even did that and with an audience no less. However he didn't regret it. Itachi tasted so good.
Eventually he pulled off of his brother and licked his cheek softly, before softly kissing him on the lips. He then stood up and slid off his older brother. He looked down, his black bangs hiding his blushing face. Sasuke wanted to do more, but he figured that his brother would want to leave soon. Shifting a little, he waited for Itachi to regret him or lash out on him. He braced himself for it. First though Itachi had to snap out of the shocked state he forced his brother into. He chuckled softly. That was the first, he ever beat his brother. He felt a great sense of accomplishment.
He glanced at Kisame though, before he shifted. "I guess I do. But I sure as hell don't regret it." He beamed warmly as he glanced back at his brother. "I wonder how lost he is?" He chuckled and waited for his brother's reaction. His cheeks were bright red though, but it was slowly fading.
***
He couldn't believe his slow reaction time and sudden inability to respond to what just happened. Sasuke had acted out of character, or so he thought the boy to be. His younger brother had suddenly taken command of the situation, something he did not foresee, and made his intentions clearly known. Itachi tried so hard to deny the voice in his head that had screamed in affirmation, in response to his own affections. The boy was probably just mocking him... making fun of him. Something. Anything but that.
Then he felt the boy moved against his thigh, spreading warmth all over his legs, all the way his toes. The elder Uchiha swore he let out a soft moan when the teen grinded against him. If this was a joke, a continuation of their impromptu 'play house', it was not...
Denial, thick and course, continued to claw at him. He would not have wanted it any other way. But how... Not after that.
It was clear as day and no matter how much Itachi wanted to, it was undeniable that his feelings was reciprocated. He was not alone in harboring deeper, darker affection towards his younger brother.
Slowly, the man sat up, propping himself on his palms before he sat erect on the mattress of Sasuke's bed. He could feel his partner and brother's gaze on him. It made him uncomfortable.
"We should go," Itachi said, his voice slightly shaken. He stood up and dashed for the door, closing it quietly as he did.
Once he saw his partner had left in a hurry, obviously embarrassed, Kisame turned to Sasuke and extended his hand, "You, my boy, have just claimed his first kiss. Excuse the reaction, he's just flustered."
***
Sasuke was waiting for his brother's reaction. He frowned when his brother didn't say anything. Did that mean that the older raven didn't feel that same way? He was damn sure that he did. Where did he go wrong? He then glanced at his brother's groin. His cheeks flared. Well it seemed his brother got hard. Before he could say anything, Itachi was fleeing the room like a bird being chased by a cat. He frowned as the door closed behind him. He sighed softly. Maybe he did read the signs wrong.
Shaking his head, he noticed he was alone with Kisame. He blinked as he spotted the shark's extended hand. He took it and held it. "If you say so. Why are you even still here?" He thought the other male would be leaving the scene after Itachi. Seriously, he was bad at reading people today. Great that meant he probably scared his brother off. He would be stuck in this godforsaken prison, until they decided to kill him. Maybe he could plan his own escape. This place was suffocating him. He was sort of hoping someone would just kidnap him out of here. Even though he didn't like being kidnapped. He was once before. It wasn't pleasant at all.
***
The grin on Kisame persisted as he used his brute strength to pull the teenager towards him, so he could whisper something to his ear.He seemed fairly surprised at how light Sasuke was compared to his partner.
"Give him time to come around. He's too shocked that you made the first move. That wasn't exactly one of his ideal scenarios for that one."
Once again the ideal on the phrase of 'one of the ideal scenarios'. Clearly the swordsman knew much more than the surface water description of the two brothers' long standing 'blood feud'.
After saying his piece, he let Sasuke go and turned towards the door his partner escaped out from, "He cares a lot about you. But he's too proud to act on it. He doesn't also act on them because he feels he's not supposed to." The shark paused for a while, folding his arms then looked over his shoulder.
"but I guess it's too late to turn back after what you did, huh. Can't be normal brothers anymore now can you?"
Kisame opened the door and was greeted by the elder Uchiha now in his cloak and wearing his usual half bored, half sleepy expression on his features. Only he could tell the younger shinobi was definitely sleepy. Tired. His eyes looked weary among other emotions that were reflected there.
Congratulations, Sasuke, you have seriously ******** him up more than you'll ever know.
He opened his mouth to speak and comment about something but was interrupted.
"Not a word."
Seemingly with regret, the former swordsman of the mist bid Sasuke good bye and assured him they would meet again. His elder brother? He did not re-enter the room anymore and left the diplomatic talk and goodbyes to his shark counterpart, still basking in the afterglow of what happened and very much... Flustered.
***
Sasuke was a little shocked though, when Kisame pulled him close. He shuddered. He didn't like being so close to the shark. He was kind of uncomfortable around him. Instead he stiffened as the shark whispered in his ear. He nodded his head, before Kisame let him go. He frowned. He was still feeling the sting of rejection though. Sighing softly, he watched Kisame make his way out of the room. He spotted his brother at the door, as the shark left.
Feeling hurt that Itachi didn't even say goodbye to him. He nodded towards him. He sighed softly as the older raven left the place without a word. Maybe he shouldn't have done that. Maybe he shouldn't have made the first move. Frowning, he collapsed onto the bed and pulled the blankets over him. It seemed that he just ******** over his relationship with Itachi. Not even Kisame's reassuring words were helping to stable his doubtful mind.
***
When Sasuke woke, he woke to the sight of a crow outside his window. It seemed like the creature was peering through the glass with an occasional twitch. Besides the curious bird that was perched on his window pane, there was no trace or sign of the Akatsuki in his holding house. Nobody entered or exited the house after the two departed, it seemed like none of the ANBU had discovered or the very least realized that someone, rather a pair of someones, had infiltrated their security.
At least not on the more obvious side. His brother's smell lingered on the covers of the boy's blanket and so did some of his chakra.
The day passed on like any other. Kanon came in the morning, all cheerful and happy like the day prior. And as if the crow's initial appearance yesterday had not happened at all. After the rudimentary check up and change of bandages, the jounin cut to the chase and began on her talk.
"I used to be on the same chuunin team as your brother. I know it's been far too long but somehow... Chakra like that---it's not something you can easily forget." She was once again preparing breakfast, this time one she made with sauce that as she recalled was the boy's favorite. "The crow... That was him right? I couldn't be wrong."
The brunet then told him about how the tonkatsu she brought was somewhat different and served it on the table. "I'm fairly surprised that he's only found you now... You have been here at Konoha for almost a year now, Sasuke. It makes me worry."
She sat down, a more serious tone and expression on her face as she watched the boy eat. Kanon wanted to directly say it but lacked the evidence. She was starting to suspect that somehow, the village was purposely bringing Itachi back to Konoha for reasons she wasn't quite sure about. Why expose the boy's presence here just now?
"Anyway, you should take care. And if your brother visits again, say hello to him for me."
***
Sasuke shifted and woke up. He curled up in the blankets the next morning. He wore a soft smile, as he still sensed his brother's chakra and he could smell his brother's scent. Sure he may have ruined his chances, but it was great to see him again. Sasuke hoped that Itachi would visit him again. Well he was hoping he would badly. Sighing softly, he curled up more under the blankets. He wasn't ready to get up yet. Maybe he could sleep for a few more hours, covered in his brother's scent. It wasn't like he had anything else to do. He was very restricted.
Shaking his head, he decided he should get up. Kanon was going to be here soon. Frowning a little, he left his warm bed and dressed. He walked out of his room and headed to the living room. Sure enough Kanon was there. He sat down on the kitchen table. He nodded and started to eat breakfast. He wore a shocked look on his face, when Kanon mentioned being on the same team as his brother. He fell silent and listened, not saying anything.
Eventually she finished and he nodded. "Yeah I will." He then frowned, when she mentioned her suspicious. He sighed softly and rested his head on the table. "Yeah I know. I get the feeling too. Don't be surprised though, if they come in and walk me to my execution. That will really draw out Itachi." He frowned softly. "What are we suppose to do? How do we know what they are planning?" He glanced at her waiting for her reply.
***
Kanon smiled in response, but she was clearly not happy. Rather it was a smile of mutual agreement between herself and the patient. Tucking strands of brown hair behind her ear she sighed and also mimicked the boy's action, extending her arms on the table and rested her head on her arm.
"But I don't think they will do that so soon. You're too valuable an asset for whatever they're planning to draw your brother out. Killing you would mean they wouldn't have anything against him. You are his most precious thing in the world, after all."
She lolled her head from side to side. May the gods help them both if their ANBU bodyguards caught wind of what they were currently talked about. It never left her mind that the jounin had been purposely placed as the boy's new caretaker as a strategic move towards---something. Something they could not put a finger on.
"As for how would we know... I'm not quite sure either. I'm not so close to the higher ups and am barely noticeable. I don't have access to records and what not. But I'll try to get what I can." Sitting upright now, she pressed her back against the chair's backrest and turned to Sasuke. She waved her pointer finger, as if to signify 'one'.
"I can't help but be worried for you though. I know they've been restraining your strength here. The previous doctor didn't even let you exercise or breath fresh air. And it took a long drawn out battle on my part to get my way to include the short routine we'll be doing to get your muscles in fine tone."
Then the jounin displayed two and continued. "Your chakra levels are nothing like what they have been reported to be from field battle reports. Imagine my surprise when I arrived her to meet you first time and your chakra's nothing like I had thought it would be."
It was then that the medic reached into her vest and took out a kunai.
She had a theory that they were purposely weakening the Uchiha, making him docile and playing on his emotions. Their clan was of proud and strong men and women. They would not succumb to psychological warfare of this sort... And it felt too drawn out, too...
"So for now, I know this is illegal and I shouldn't be concerting with you but I want to be assured you'll be safe. I'll try to smuggle other things while I'm at it."
There was a goofy grin on her face as she handed the weapon to him, making him clasp it. "Don't overdo it alright? You're still not used to movement like you used to be. If you strain yourself, you'll only be obvious."
***
Sasuke sighed softly. He frowned. He didn't like the theories that she was stating. It made him feel ill at ease. So the village really had some ulterior motive and he was strictly involved. It would make sense. He was getting weaker by the day. He wasn't allowed to do anything. He was restricted and trapped in this hellhole. Even his so called friends didn't even visit him. Maybe there was restrictions there too, but won't they have at least tried to find some way to contact him. Sighing softly, he didn't know what to think anymore.
Sighing softly, he looked over at Kanon. He straightened up. His back pressed against the chair. "I hate feeling so weak. I hate being trapped in this damn place. They even forced me to take some stupid pills. I ended up pretending to take them, once they made me feel weak and dizzy." He frowned and glanced at the ceiling. His entire body was shivering softly. It seemed she might be right. What could they want with him? He wasn't that important. Well he was to Itachi, but what did they want with him.
His eyes totally lite up, when she passed him a kunai. He eagerly snatched it up, thrilled beyond release. He held the kunai close to him. He was thrilled. He hadn't had one since he was taken captive. He smiled warmly at Kanon and nodded his head. "I promise. Thanks. You don't know how much I wanted my weapons back and training. I promise I will take it easy. I do have a special room." He grinned and winked at her. He did manage to set up a special room where the anbu won't locate him. He grinned softly. He was so excited and pleased to have his own weapons again.
***
The mention of 'stupid pills' didn't help things either. If anything it served to confirm her suspicions. So they were indeed breaking the boy down, not just mentally but physically. Upon hearing that Sasuke stopped taking them, Kanon sighed in relief.
Now it made sense why the ANBU had to thoroughly inspect whatever food she brought in and questioned her heavily. And each time, she would lie saying it was for her and not for Sasuke's consumption.
But ah, somehow, she had managed to acquire her former team mate's inclination to spoil the boy. Itachi's stories of the munchkin made him fond of Sasuke, even before they would ever get a proper chance of interaction.
"Good. I'm glad that's the case. If you can, perhaps you can keep today's dosage and hand it to me tomorrow. We won't be able to tell what the heck it is from appearances alone. I know medications are handed with no labels and in raw format so unless I nitpick at it, I won't know what's 'really' inside."
She rested her hands on the boy's shoulders and willed him to be calm.
"Like what I said... Don't overdo it!" The jounin was so close to pouting and shook her head. "You need to take it slowly. And good you found a spot here that's beyond the ANBU's sense."
The jounin looked from side to side, and then leaned over, goofy smile never wavering and whispered, "Just between you and me, these guys are too lenient and stupid anyway. I'm not the best out there but I managed to sneak stuff in. So please."
***
asuke shifted and nodded his head. He glanced at her.
"Yeah sure they will be giving it to me real soon. So you best leave soon." He hid the kunai underneath his shirt. It was hidden from view. There was no way in hell that they were going to take away his weapons. He would just keep them locked away. He had found an underground passage in the safe house that lead to a secluded area. That was where he was going to do his training. He would just have to keep his weapons securely in there. Sasuke would make sure that no ANBU found it.
Shifting, he glanced at her once more. He nodded his head. "Yeah they are." He stood up picking up the dirty dishes. He started to wash them. He had to keep busy. Besides she wasn't going to be here much longer. They were going to come soon for his dosage. He really wished he was never brought back to this damn village. It was causing him nothing but grief and it seemed that his friends and comrades didn't give a damn about him. He was lost and it seemed that his only trustworthy companion was Kanon, nobody else. He couldn't trust anyone in Konoha.
***
The medic nodded, indeed. Her time to be with him was running short and she would have to be collected by the ANBU on the morning shift. Kanon could only hope for the best as she too made herself look busy by putting away the remains of breakfast into the trash can.
"Oh yes, something else that bothers me---you had friends right?" She was careful with her tone and her words, quite aware that Sasuke felt abandoned and forgotten during his stay. It was also probably why the boy had taken the blade and began to self mutilate himself. Kanon could only imagine how lonely he felt... But.
"I remember Kakashi and your genin counterparts. The other people from your batch as well---not exactly friends but colleagues? Peers? I know you had them. They knew you were back but never came to visit. Or maybe they did but they just stopped coming altogether. Never wondered why?"
She moved closed to him, slipping him a paper envelope. "I think the village elders are up to something. I'm just theories right now though. But I think if you look through my photocopies, you should understand a little... why they did what they had to do." The brunet looked sympathetic, but there was a hidden depth to her sadness in her expression. It was the sort that said 'I have to be cruel to be kind.'
"Once you've read the contents, dispose of it. Burn it. I don't care, you cannot leave it unattended. It's only for your eyes only."
Inside were news clippings of false information: people had been made to believe that Sasuke had escaped and was re-captured but died from his injuries during the retrieval assault. Until she tried to look further into the matter, the jounin was one who never read the newspaper or listened to the news. She knew they were all propaganda and only believed in her superiors. Her obedience was probably why she soared to jounin rank despite her looked down upon ability and average healing capacity. But with how things were turning out, Kanon would not help but question if her choice of loyalty to the village had been all in vain...
What were they up to? Why were they doing this?
No wonder Sasuke was kept under ANBU care. No wonder nobody was allowed to speak a word of the boy.
No wonder everything...
***
Sasuke finished putting things away, when Kanon answered again. His eyes took on a softened look. He looked away from her and nodded. His onyx eyes looked overcast with sadness. He sighed softly. "Well I don't care much for any of them. The only ones I was close to was Kakashi, who I kind of saw as a father figure and then Naruto. The loudmouth blond." He looked lost in his memories for a moment. "He maybe annoying, but he is the only one that really understands me. He's like my best friend. Although Itachi does know me the best. I guess it kind of bothers me that neither of them visited. I never did like Sakura. She was too clingy and fangirling.." He frowned, his gaze hooded with some unknown emotion. "I regret it. I regret leaving them. They were my team and well they were my closes allies and friends. It just hurts a lot that they didn't visit, especially Naruto. I miss the old times." Sasuke sighed softly, shoving his thoughts from his mind. What's the point of dwelling, it wasn't going to change anything.
When Kanon was about to leave, he blinked as she handed him something. He blinked confused and took the envelope. He carefully opened it. "Sure I will burn it after." He wondered what was inside of it. He shifted and pulled out the newspaper clippings. He quickly scanned them over. A look of horror flashed in his eyes, before it turned to fury. He slammed the envelope down on the table. His sharigan flaring. "What the hell is the meaning of this?! I should have killed the damn elders when I had a chance. No wonder they haven't visited. They think I'm freaking dead!" He spat. He was furious. His hate for the village went up another notch. Ok it was so much as the people, but it was the damn villagers!
***
Hearing him describe his genin team made Kanon laugh a little inside, there was a smile on her face. It was so brutal and so... funny to her at the same time. On the top of the surface, one would think that Sasuke hated his team mates but if one looked closely, his 'dislike' for them was clearly fondness for their quirks and habits. So apparently, the boy was one of those 'I don't like it; no wait, I changed my mind I actually do' sort of people.
She raised a finger to her lips as if to hint for silence. "Not too loud," Kanon said in a whisper of a voice. The brunet turned about and flicked her head towards the door. "You don't want to inform the ANBU and their grandmothers that you know something you shouldn't know." Seeing the sharingan in his eyes didn't frighten her, instead it worried her that her ward would be overexerting himself once more. The jounin moved towards him, putting her palms on his shoulders and whispered for him to be calm, instructing him to breath in, breath out. "Sasuke, stay with me. Don't waste your chakra. You need to keep yourself steady."
The medic in her knew that if he was to overexert, it would be his undoing. He wouldn't be able to fight off anymore of the village's attempts to keep him docile. But the woman in her knew he had every right to be angry.
At the same moment that Sasuke threw his fists on the table in anger of what had been done, the crow that kept it's watch on the boy since he awakened shrieked by the kitchen window. For a moment, Kanon's attention was taken by the spy of a bird and she raised an eyebrow. Itachi? You're here again?
"...Do you want me to let them know you're not dead... Anyone you'd like to know or would you like to keep it that way?" Kanon offered a favor and wasn't sure if it was the best thing right now. She willed her eyes off the kitchen window, geez, she didn't even notice it was there the entire time. Or did it just fly in right when Sasuke grew angry and all?
***
Sasuke wanted to burn the elders and the villagers. How dare they do this to him!? It was a curse being brought back here! He waned out. He wanted to and destroy this village. He stiffened when Kanon walked over to him. He shifted and sighed softly. He took in a few deep breathes. He breathed in and he breathed out. He calmed down and his sharingan faded to their normal onyx black. He sighed softly and sat down. He dropped his head on his folded arms. He felt his fury starting to slide away.
He looked away though. He nodded. He couldn't alert them. He wanted to fight them, not be so docile. He perked up slightly, when he heard what she suggested. A thought crossed his mind. He frowned softly. "Just tell Kakashi please. If you tell my other teammates, they will try something to break me out. That could ruin everything. If Naruto or Sakura can keep a secret, you can tell them. It's your decision." He glanced at her, before looking away. He glanced towards the window, spotting the crow again. It seemed that Itachi was listening in right now. His brother had ears and eyes everywhere it seemed.
***
When the Sharingan faded into the familiar charcoal black eyes, the jounin smiled and gave the boy a pat on the back. She gave him a compliment, telling Sasuke that he was doing good and should keep it up. Then the medic turned towards the window once more. Her eyes belied the worry she had in her heart for both brothers.
"I think it would only be a matter of time till your brother comes for you.." Kanon mused as she continued to rub soothing circles down her ward's back. "But I worry that it just might be what the elders want: bring Itachi back to Konoha. I know you're both strong but you need to be at your full strength to stand by your brother's side and help if anything---I want to look further into this though... Yknow find solid facts and proof."
If the woman only knew..of last night and what had transpired. The chakra left behind by her former team mate was faint and collected, mostly at the bedroom. But not like Kanonwas going to be walking in there and would come to know that.
***
Sasuke sighed softly. He nodded his head. She did have a point, but he didn't like it. He glared at the wall before him. "I hope the elders burn in hell. What do they hope to accomplish?! Huh?!" He slammed his fits down on the table. He was still furious. He hated being used as some kind of bait. It was pathetic. He couldn't do anything about it. He was trapped in this hellhole and they were going great lengths to keep him docile. He was furious, but he knew that Kanon was right. He couldn't do anything drastic. It would just destroy him in the end and Itachi too.
Sighing softly, he let his fury slide away. He wasn't pleased, but at least she was trying to help him. He did have an ally in this hellhole and if his old team knows, than he would have a few more allies to count on. Straightening up, he brushed some raven hair from his face. "Right. They will be here soon. I'll keep the medicine for you, for your next visit. Please at least tell Kakashi and get him to promise not tell anyone. Only if Naruto and Sakura can keep a secret, he can tell them too." He flashed her a strained smile, before he picked up the envelope. He grabbed a match and a plate. He then set the envelope on fire. He won't leave any evidence.
***
(with clarification that it's actually evening not overnight morning timeskip here XD)
When Sasuke began to scold it indirectly from the window from where it was perched, the bird calmed down and resumed it's idle pose with an occasional peek inside the safe house. Despite having shrieked more than once during it's stay there, the ANBU never seemed to have taken notice of it. Not once did any of the elite officers come in to check on their ward inside or inquire of the bird.
A little after dinner, the bird eventually flew off and for a time, no amount of chakra could be sensed outside. It seemed like there was nobody watching over the place, at least none that wasn't affiliated with the ANBU.
Change of shifts. Then a dark figure took the place of the crow on the branch near the kitchen tree. It's chakra signature was one very familiar to Sasuke, yet he refused to make himself known and seemed content to simply sit close by and watch over his little brother go about washing the used up cutlery and plates from dinner, waiting for the same old face come and take out his dinner tray.
***
Sasuke sighed softly. He shook his head. The crow flew off. He was a little sad though. Sasuke found that crow was a connection to his older brother. He really missed him. He could really use some comfort right now. All the information from before was running through his mind. He was still pissed off. Frowning a little. he shook his head. He couldn't dwell on it. He was suppose to be calm. He was suppose to be reserving his own chakra. He couldn't use it. It would alert the Anbu and that would be bad.
Sighing softly, he started to wash the dishes. He put them away and walked back tot he living room. He was already bored. He didn't know what to do. He could do some training, he had a weapon now. Sasuke just couldn't bring himself too. He felt tired and drained. It must have been from the little flare up earlier. Sighing softly, he collapsed on the couch, wondering what he could do next to kill time. Would he see Itachi tonight? He hoped he did.
***
Three soft knocks on the door.
Kanon knew what that meant. With a heavy heart she scratched the back of her neck and collected her washed utensils, the one that she used to put the shared breakfast in and primped herself up.
"Time to go. See you tomorrow, Sasuke." She flashed him a goofy grin and gave him a salute before she darted for the door. But not before giving the crow at the kitchen window a salute as well. "See you soon as well, Itachi!"
The crow shifted on it's perch, and ruffled it's feathers as it watched the jounin leave through the door. It did not react or make anymore sound in response to the brunette's farewell. Nor would there be any signs of it reacting if it's master was anywhere soon.
She preferred properly walking out the door than having the ANBU walk in and escort her. It felt that she had more dignity upon her leaving that way and that felt much better than being dragged out of the safe house. The more she knew, the more it Kanon began to question many things.
Morning came to past and came evening. The crow began to act strangely then.
Like something was coming.
***
Sasuke waved goodbye to her. He nodded his head. "Later Kanon." He picked up the plate and put it away. The envelope was burned to cinders. There was nothing left. Sure enough they had came in not to long after. Sasuke took what they gave him. They nodded when they thought he had taken it. After that, they were gone. Sasuke spit out the medicine and put them in a small container. He caped it and put it away somewhere. He would give them to Kanon tomorrow, when she came.
After everything was done, Sasuke showered and retired for the night. He passed out passed. When morning came, Sasuke woke at the crack of dawn like normal. He groaned softly, curling more under the covers. He was only alerted, when he noticed Itachi's crow. He shifted, waking up fully. He slipped out of his bed and walked towards the window. His back was turned to the door. "What's wrong with you?" Sasuke was wondering why Itachi's crow was acting so strangely.
***
A surprise waited Sasuke when he chose to finally retire for the night.
It was none other than his brother, seated on his bed and seemed rather preoccupied with a scroll in his hands. The man had removed his sandals and coat, leaving it on the now opened window by Sasuke's window. Itachi lifted his gaze momentarily from what he was reading when the door opened and his brother stepped inside.
"Welcome back."
He sure sounded like he was the one living there with the way he said it. As if Sasuke was the one who was visiting. The Akatsuki rolled back the scroll and inserted it back in his pouch on his backside and rose from the bed. The elder Uchiha moved towards his brother.
"I think we need to talk"
It was a heavily laden statement: talk about where they stood, talk about their plans of flight from Konoha... Talk. About. Things. Itachi wore his usual impassive expression, one hand on his hip and the other clenched loosely in a fist.
***
Sasuke shifted and walked back to his room. He was tired and sleep sounded good. Tomorrow was another day. A day he wasn't looking forward to. It seemed like his stay was going to expire soon. Nobody said anything, but he just suddenly felt like he was running out of time. He wanted to talk with it to Kanon, but she wouldn't be back till tomorrow. Sure he rather speak to his brother about it, but Sasuke could have scared his brother away. He frowned softly. He was running out of options and he felt backed into a corner. A corner he couldn't find his way out of. With these thoughts running through his mind, he retired to his room for the night.
However upon arrival, he was met with an unexpected surprise. Sasuke was startled. He didn't think he would be seeing his brother anytime soon. His breathing hitched a little bit. "Itachi." His cheeks warmed up, when the older male greeted him and welcomed him back. It warmed up his heart. Maybe things would be ok. At least he had two allies here, Kanon and his brother. He might even have another, if she was able to tell his team what happened to him. Maybe they could help break them out. He couldn't wait to see them. Than again, he did consider his team his only friends. Even though he would never admit that out loud and he would never date Sakura.
Shaking his head, he drifted away from his thoughts. He closed his door softly and grabbed a seat in front of Itachi. He sighed softly. "Yeah we do. We have a big problem. There has been falsified information on me. Everything thinks I'm dead Itachi, that's why nobody has ever came to see me.." He frowned and scooted to the head of his bed. He pulled his knees to his chest and sighed softly. '"It's all the elders fault. Kanon managed to find some information on why nobody saw me. She did. I think I elders are using me for something and than they will kill me soon. I think they want you and are using me as bait to get to you." He rested his chin onto his knees. He was confused and he was scared. He wasn't ready to die and he didn't want to put his brother into harm's way. He loved his brother and he couldn't stand to see him hurt. He frowned, waiting for Itachi to answer him.
***
That came as quite a surprise. Itachi had not expected to receive his brother nor such news. Definitely not something he had foreseen to be. Just a few days prior, a ljne had been crossed and it only created complication and a sense of incompletion: there was something hanging about it. Even the elder Uchiha felt it himself. It was probably how his restless walking lead him back into the safe house and on Sasukes bed. As for the news...
Oh, came the quiet response. Void of shock and worry. Why am I not even surprised that it were so---after all you disappeared from everyones line of sight. I heard it too: that you were dead but you know all too well I wouldnt be so gullible. I felt it in my blood... Otherwise.
He rose from the bed and stood by the window. The akatsuki folded his arms across his chest as he gazed into the starry collection of stars. Sasuke, how much do you remember of that night?
The night their clan fell to ruin.
The night that carved an absolute divide and change: one that would forever part them.
Or so he thought.
***
Sasuke frowned. He watched his brother. It seemed that Itachi was taking the news better than him. When he found out, well he was downright furious. How could they do that to him? At least his brother wasn't gullible, that meant that someone else knew he was alive. Sighing ,before he bit his lip he pulled his knees to his chest. He watched his brother, as he seemed to pace in worry. "Well I'm glad. I don't know what the elders want or what they are planning. I'm just worried you might get involved. Then what would happen to us after that." That was the unspoken bond. What would happen to them, if the elders got away with whatever their plan was?
Shaking his head, he shoved those thoughts from his mind. He frowned softly, before perking up. He cocked his head to the side. That was an absurd question. He frowned, trying to recall. Nothing much came to mind. He shook his head. "I don't remember much Itachi. I know you slaughtered the clan, but maybe it was because it was a mission. That way you could have spared me. But I'm not sure. Sorry." He frowned, watching his brother. He didn't know. Was he missing something?
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