Ranting Author (Back-for-an-encore Report): As only a few may know, I wrote an Itachi story that will correspond with this one. It was a story centered on Itachi when he was younger, up to the future—when he finally confronts Sasuke in the final battle. I've decided to do Sasuke's views now.

I hope that it isn't as long as the other, or if it is, I might continue it as another chapter. I want at least three thousand words. If I make that limit, but still have more to say, then there will be other chapters to follow.

Should be a one-shot though.

Obscured Retribution

Part I

-

-

-

Not even once in my childhood did I consider even the thought of what my brother did; and since then, I've dedicated my life to ending his. With such deep devotion, I have abandoned all I cared for—leaving it in that deplorable excuse for a village.

Nonetheless, it was my home once; and the homes of countless people from my clan, all deceased now and writhing in pain from the injustice done unto them by my own flesh and blood.

How I detest the man who ruined my future. No longer is he my brother. A common murderer doesn't have a family. He destroyed that right long ago, when he killed our parents and other relatives in the eminent Uchiha Clan massacre.

In my early years, I was somewhat of the shadow, everyone's focus directed solely at my elder brother: Uchiha Itachi.

My existence was eclipsed by his, never being seen for what I truly could do, but rather, what I could not.

When he was seven, he graduated from the Academy—top of his class. At eight, he activated the sharingan and at ten, Itachi became a Chuunin. Everyone was so proud, celebrations within our home lasted from morning till night, when he claimed tired and returned to his room. Even so, he was still an idol to everyone, and probably, the paramount genius that the Uchiha clan had been waiting for.

As the years rolled by and he became thirteen, the ANBU was the first organization he united with. From there, he was less active with me and everyone—always off doing his own training whenever a situation came up. Nevertheless, he was still there if I really needed him. It was clear on his thirteenth birthday: Itachi was the pride of the Uchiha Clan.

I was eight at the time—he being five years my senior, but I was nowhere near his level. Not even close.

Even if he was the one who hid my existence, he never acted superior to myself. I was an equal; at least in the way he treated me. Whenever he witnessed father trying to focus too much on himself and avoiding me, Itachi would always find a way to get himself out of the spotlight and put me in father's attention. Mother always had the time for me, so that was never an issue to get her to listen to me.

A day before the mission that decided his fate in becoming an ANBU, while his free time was still directed at home, he offered to help me with my own training. It was strange. He never proposed to help me with anything, unless it was to reach something high on the shelves.

Pulling me to the side, he asked me to accompany him to the training grounds and he would teach me a new shuriken technique. I followed, having acquiesce and eagerness running hand in hand. It was there that we had somewhat of a brotherly moment and my adoration of him significantly amplified.

I watched impatiently from the cover of one of the trees, kneeling, as Itachi stood not far from me; eyes closed and mind focused on the small task before him. Twenty targets lined the area, all in different locations. He was going to strike all of them simultaneously. There was an immense rock that blocked part of his view from three marks, yet that still probably could not stop him from hitting them with perfection.

He leapt into the air.

Such inhuman grace he showed, throwing his kunai airborne and hitting every target with ease and precision. It was a chain reaction; when one hit, the others flew to their respected locations—the center of the mark. He was an expected natural at everything to do with being a Ninja. His movements almost seemed like he was flying. It was hard to believe that he had his eyes closed while doing this, and avoided hitting me or any other object that was not marked.

As each weapon landed at their predestined point so did he, kneeling as he touched the ground. His eyes opened, the sharingan activated as he rapidly surveyed his perfect placements, nodding when they seemed to his liking. He deactivated his celebrated endowment.

"Amazing brother," I uttered almost mutely, "You hit all the targets right in the middle, even though the rock made a blind spot…" I stood quickly, my own kunai drawn and crossed in front of me. "Alright! I'm gonna do that too! Just wa—"

Getting to his feet, he turned to me—who still had a determined expression—with a smile and interrupted my declaration. "Sasuke, let's get going. It's time we went home."

Crestfallen, yet annoyance showed in my tone, I glared lightly at him with a slight disappointed expression. I gripped my kunai in defiance. "You told me that you'd teach me a new shuriken technique."

"There's an important mission tomorrow, so I must set up for it," his tone was kind, making his apology through his voice alone.

I looked away from him briefly, uttering the words, "Brother, you liar." Nonetheless, he still heard my grievance, and raised a hand, waving me over to him like always.

As usual, I complied, running over to him with a wide smile—believing that he would teach me something for once, instead of giving excuses and apologizing. Soon enough, his smile turned even calmer and he jabbed me in the forehead nonchalantly with his fingers, gazing at me as he said in a soothing voice, "Forgive me, Sasuke. Another time."

I winced at his sudden movement of violence towards me, thought it was only a light tap. It still had a tiny bit of ache.

I turned my stare upward, taking in the expression of my brother with an arrogant grin—getting ride of the memory of him turning me down. My cocky expression deepened, his own gentle smile turning to show confusion as he observed my most recent mood change.

Without warning, I drew out my kunai. "Brother, watch me!"

I sprinted towards the rock, determined to get leverage by climbing up it and jumping from the top. I had reached the rock, jumping and kicking off from it in attempt to get a few stylish points for the effort. Nonetheless, I still failed in the end.

Itachi's startled voice shouted, "Hey! If you push yourself…!" He trailed off, seeing that it was already too late to save me from my destined fall.

At first, it seemed as though I was going to succeed in performing the technique, but I had not considered one crucial element in performing it: the elevation required. I hadn't jumped high enough, not even considering how close I was to the ground to even think about trying. Even so, I was able to hit three targets prior to my brutal landing.

Before I hit the ground violently, I could have sworn I heard him sigh—like he was irritated or exhausted.

Moments later, I was on the ground near tears and my hands grabbed at the throbbing pain that radiated from my right leg; but he was there suddenly, pushing my reach away as he observed my physically unhurt form, aside from a few scratches. I howled in pain and when he saw me clutch the same leg, it kicked in that something was wrong.

Itachi smacked away my hands, feeling along the skin of my ankle with scarcely any tenderness.

I twitched in agony at his touch and bit my lip to keep myself from saying a few choice words I had in mind, just to keep myself from sobbing or wailing. I wouldn't cry—not in front of him, even though I, in actuality, wanted to so desperately. What was an eight year old to do?

"See. I told you that it was unsafe, didn't I?" He asked rhetorically, yet I still nodded to prove his point even further. His eyes wondered over to my face, and I turned my teary ones to him. I coughed to hide my sob and he shook his head, seeming somewhat amused with my outwardly dire injury. As normal, an affectionate smile appeared from his previously blank expression and he cautiously helped me sit up, putting a hand behind my back for support. "It's not a serious injury, but you should stay off it. Get on my back. I'll carry you home." He crouched down a little more in his kneeling position, striving to make it painless for me to climb on.

"No! It's okay," I stated crossly. I wanted him to teach me the shuriken technique, regardless of my wounded state—and not blow me off like the many times he usually did. "Let's keep going. I'll be fine. If we don't then who knows when you're going to help me again."

Itachi gave me a skeptical look, raising an eyebrow and lowering it just as quickly. With no forewarning, he squeezed my impaired ankle enough to send me into a wave of misery. In turn, I almost shrieked at what he did. "As I was saying…" He continued once more, "Get on my back. You're done for today."

"But…" I trailed off, still wanting him to see from my view after I recovered from the pain he put me through. How could he have done that to me—and without a second thought? "You're not going to help me again."

"Stop worrying about that." Itachi whispered to me unexpectedly, not even looking in my direction anymore. It just about seemed as though he didn't mean what he was saying at all. It was happening again—my elder brother began showing his distant side. "When you've had a chance to heal, we'll come back one day that I'm free and practice all you like. At the moment, I've one more thing to be concerned about when I arrive home, so it's best we just left now."

There was a moment of silence as he stared at me with contemplative eyes, no longer smiling, then sighed upon seeing my dejected expression. I guess that actually got to him.

"We'll come back a week from today, alright?" He added, sounding defeated.

I couldn't help but beam at him. Hearing his words made my day enjoyable—even made my week. Seven days seemed to far away.

All I could do was nod and comply with his most recent request of mounting his back, and holding on as he set us on course for home.

Of course, I had no idea that in exactly one week, on the day Itachi promised to train me, everyone I ever loved would be dead—all killed by his hands.

Seven days.

It was not long until we reached the outskirts of the city. I was on the verge of laughter as I chuckled to myself. Itachi glanced over his shoulder, a bright expression on his face as he observed me.

"Why is the one who twisted his ankle laughing?" He asked in a curious tone, "Could it be that you're trying to have it easy by making me carry you?" In the very least, he did not sound angry at all. Somewhat amused—friendly even. At least he was not acting strange anymore.

"That's not it," I declared stridently, attention on him. My face then showed enthusiasm as I blushed slightly. "I'll be starting the Academy tomorrow and I'm excited."

He then snorted with hidden hilarity, turning his gaze ahead once more as my thoughts drifted to the many things I was supposed to experience starting tomorrow. I was sure that sooner or later, father would have to notice me.

Father would come to value and depend on me, just like brother.

Minutes later, we were passing through the thresholds of our Clan's residence area and my content disposition was beginning to diminish rapidly.

"Brother, I can walk now," I stated flatly.

"Don't push yourself." I quieted after his reply, looking at something that caught my eye. My sudden silence must have interested him. "What's wrong?"

"This is where Father works right?" My eyes were directed at the emblem that hung on the side of the building to our right, as we strolled through the semi-busy streets of the village.

Itachi explained that it was the Konoha Military Police Headquarters. When I asked why the Uchiha Clan's insignia was etched onto the logo, he seemed surprised that I had noticed it. I was secretly hurt that he would think I could miss a detail like that.

He looked at me, then to the sign that hung on the building, simply putting that it was our ancestors who created the group, so we should rightfully have our family crest attached to the symbol. According to him, since long ago, our clan had been responsible for enforcing laws, protecting the villagers and keeping the order of our way of life.

His closing sentences stuck with me for years to come, as he avowed: "The Uchiha crest also serves as our clan's pride. Now, the clan is smaller, but most of us work here, contributing to maintain public order in our society." A warm smile and kind eyes looked at me. "The only shinobi who can enforce laws are superior ones." Somehow, I knew his statement had a deeper meaning, but I dismissed my doubts.

I grinned. "Wow…! Father is incredible!" He chuckled and began strolling along once more. "Brother, are you going to join too?"

Itachi seemed to hesitate at the question. "Maybe…"

"You should!" I gripped his shoulder harder, proclaiming elatedly, "When I grow up, I'm going to join the police force too! And…father will come to my entrance ceremony tomorrow—it's the first step to my dream!"

"Yeah…"

Sooner than I thought, we were entering the courtyard to our home, only to be greeted by our seemingly aggravated father. His arms were crossed as he stepped from behind the already opened doorway, revealing his displeased façade. "You're late. What were you doing?" Obviously, he was angered beyond a formal welcoming.

"Father…" I trailed off, surprised by his appearance.

"I have something to tell you. Hurry up," he persisted.

-

When inside, I sat beside Itachi, ill at ease as I gawked at my father's sure expression. He loomed feet from us with his legs and arms crossed, solemn view solely directed on my brother.

No breeze blew through the open doors; a gloomy curtain falling on the clouds as they covered the land in shadows. All was hushed.

"As to be expected of my child," our father spoke in a low and satisfied voice, breaching the stillness, "To come this far in only half a year after becoming a Chuunin…" His expression shifted subsequently, presenting a thrilled yet relaxing smile. "I'm going to accompany you tomorrow for your particular assignment."

No expression showed on my pale face as I reflected on what was just said. Father was not going to be present at my opening ceremony. After I had tried so seriously, he would not be there. Hearing that hurt worse than my twisted ankle.

"Succeeding means your enlistment into ANBU." My father kept his eyes on Itachi, a sense of genuineness in the air. "You understand this?"

"There's no need to worry about it," my brother answered sincerely, "More importantly…" He trailed off, turning to me with another one of his open smiles.

I blushed as I looked up to him from the side, then gazed at my father; a thrilled emotion surging through me. Nervous, I decided that it didn't hurt to interrupt, so long as my brother made the chance for me possible. "Father…tomorrow's my—"

I suppose that he knew what I was going to say, and nipped by blissful sensitivity in the bud. As to be expected of father, breaking in and making the more important point. "Tomorrow's mission isn't only important for you, but to our clan as well."

I was not surprised for some reason as I adverted my watch to the side, away from my repentant brother. My head lowered; dreams of tomorrow shattered due to a certain other member of my family.

The one who darkened my existence.

He moved slightly in my vision, as if to glance at me. "Sorry, but I'm dropping tomorrow's mission."

"Have you lost your mind?! You know how important it is!" My father argued.

There was a moment of deafening peace.

Itachi was the one to finally speak, "There's still something more important than the mission. I'll be attending Sasuke's entrance ceremony at the Academy." My wide eyes focused on him in shock. I was speechless; my father was speechless. All we did was listen. "You know that some one has to be there for him, seeing that relatives are supposed to attend. Father, haven't you received the notice?"

My father grunted and made it to his feet, a somewhat disappointed expression holding on his face. "I understand. I will go to the Academy."

Emotions made their way to my silent being yet again; cheeks flushed from relief. My dream would come true after all, and this was only the first step.

I would have to thank Itachi later for his self-sacrificing act.

Itachi was the one who took my pleasure away countless times, but…was always there to make my day in his own unique way.

One night, I was woken up by annoyed yells from one deep toned person—my father's voice undoubtedly. Soon enough, I had to get up from my safe haven after feeling the need for a short trip to the bathroom.

As I climbed from bed and felt my way through the unlit passages of my home; I came upon the meeting room.

I tiptoed to the door, listening to the conversation inside. It was surprising though, considering that all my family was awake so late at night. I didn't dare touch the door; father and brother were top class shinobi and would know the slightest movement of their surroundings.

Itachi's voice was the first one I heard as I stood near, hearing him say, "I have a mission tomorrow."

I wondered what was so important that needed discussing while I was asleep.

"What mission," my father answered suddenly and I eased into the conversation.

With brief hesitation, it seemed as though brother was searching for words. "I can't tell you. It's a secret mission."

I could hear father sigh intensely, aggravation present. "Itachi. You are the link that connects our clan to the village. You do understand, right?"

"…Yeah…"

"Make a good impression. And come to the meeting tomorrow."

I'd never known such passionate quietness until listening to their conversation. No one said a word, and I froze, knowing that any movement could give me away. I held my breath.

"Sasuke." It was Itachi; he knew I was there. I was so careful though… "It's late. Go to the bathroom and quickly go back to sleep."

I panicked at first, and then composed myself.

Knowing that my cover had been blown, I slid the door open a little, revealing my remorseful expression. "Yes, brother." It was then that I noticed my mother was present as well. She had never said a word.

"What are you doing up so late at night?" The thunderous voice of father startled me and he rose to his feet swiftly, eyes on me. "Hurry and go to sleep!"

I lowered my head. "Yes, sir."

The day after the meeting, Itachi and I sat on the edge of the boardwalk, feet dangling over the sides. The sun was setting now and we lounged in the shade together. My mood was not one of my best. Everything was gloomy in my eyes.

"Father always talks about you, brother." My voice was emotionless, practically dreary.

"Am I that terrible?" His reply came instantly, just as he always answered my statements.

"Don't worry. It's alright." Eyes glanced upward to the sky and another one of his distant smiles appeared. "It's not much of a surprise. Shinobi are hated by others."

"That not…! I didn't say that!" I glared at him momentarily before rotating my vision to the ground in concealed shame. He was right. I did hate him for that.

I was a nobody because of him.

He chuckled once; no feeling in his voice as his false smile still reigned. "That's what happened when you're skilled. Power makes you isolated and arrogant. In the beginning, you only aim for what you dream of." Itachi sighed. "It's just that we're unique siblings. I'm the barrier that you must overcome to make us continue to live together."

In all the time I spent with him, never had I seen such a adoring side of his customary composed and rather remote behavior, nothing so insightful had come from him.

I admit he was a crappy older brother when it came to the small things like keeping promises. He never seemed to consider me when it was time for a mission, but tried to spend some moments with me when he wasn't tired.

Nonetheless, he was my brother—and an excellent one too.

If I needed him, he was there.

He laughed genuinely for the first time in an incredibly long time. "Even if you hate me, that's what being a big brother is."

I could tell that he sought me to live willingly with him and to do that I had to work extremely hard to conquer his silhouette. It was as if something clicked in my head, and it was then that I realized his message.

Finally, I understood what he had been trying to tell me for all those years.

Moments later, three men burst through our front door yelling for Itachi. I looked to him with an anxious expression. He simply stood with a new secluded yet kindly grin before disappearing.

Naturally, I followed him to meet the trio of intruders, keeping my distance as I caught sight of them. I hid visibly around a corner, eyes shifting between the foreign faces within my home while my brother stood boldly before them—ready to defend himself if necessary.

There was treacherous air around him. "What is it?" My brother demanded, "Why are you here?"

"Two were absent from last night's meeting," answered one of the three men, a horrific glare focused on Itachi. He had lengthy auburn hair and was not a person I was common with, at least. Brother most likely knew him. "Why weren't you there?"

Just one thing came to my mind: Itachi really didn't go to the meeting father had mentioned. But, why?

"Ever since you joined ANBU you've had many missions. I understand that. Your father told us that too—he watches out for you, but…"

"We don't plan to give you any special treatment," spoke another—the eldest member of the trio. My gape shifted to him at the sound of his voice.

"I understand. I'll be more careful." My unruffled brother closed his eyes for a moment. "Please leave."

"You're right," came the eldest again, "But before we go, there's something we'd like to ask you." Something about his words caused my older sibling to awaken from his peaceful state, a slight change in his eyes. "It's about the suicidal drowning in the Nakano River last night. That of Uchiha Shisui."

I gasped aloud.

I was sure of it now, the change in his appearance was now evident; the small change from his normally placid eyes were now reflecting concealed fury—revulsion that I'd never known. I was no longer looking at my so-called brother; this was the factual successor to the clan name.

Ranting Author (Where-has-all-the-verbalatis-gone Version): Nope. There's gonna be a chapter two after all. I can't write all that in one setting. I stopped at the part where they begin hammering Itachi with things, trying to get him to confess on the murdering.

In chapter two, I'll try to sum up the rest of it. I practically already did this in my Itachi narrative 'The True Prodigy'. It's just of him—and different situations.

I like his the best. His way of thinking was pretty easy to get.