Naruto Fan Fiction ❯ Dead By Eclipse ❯ Chapter 12
[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]
By: Sheol 
Warning: chapter contains references to sexual content and possible obscene language.
Anime/Manga: Naruto Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Suspense / Romance / Hentai / Angst | Type: Shounen-ai | Uploaded On: 05.04.2009 | Pages: 3 | Words: 5.7K | Visits: 199 | Status: Completed
Warning: chapter contains references to sexual content and possible obscene language.
Anime/Manga: Naruto Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Suspense / Romance / Hentai / Angst | Type: Shounen-ai | Uploaded On: 05.04.2009 | Pages: 3 | Words: 5.7K | Visits: 199 | Status: Completed
Disclaimer: Nope don't own Naruto.
A/N:Woot~~ Kudos to Souji :3 For being the beta-ness. No, seriously, thank you so much. I was really surprised by how much you improved the chapter. I never really thought having a beta would make that big of a difference. You're awesome!
Also, this is something Souji corrected me on. Kira does not mean killer in japanese, satsunjisha does. Kira is how the english word killer is phonetically pronounced/ written in japanese. My bad, oh well. Nevertheless, I took the name from Death Note.
To clarify on something confusing, yes I am aware Tobi (aka, the true akatsuki leader) has the sharingan as well. However, the story's setting is pre- time skip when Sasuke is still 13, so Tobi has not revealed himself yet as the true akatsuki leader so Kisame is not aware anyone else has the sharingan. This is why Kisame stated Sasuke would be the second member with the sharingan.
I tried to improve Sasuke's backbone while still keeping him vulnerable... hope I kept him in character. lol. I never really intended for him to be a complete pushover, just vulnerable.
Warning: chapter contains references to sexual content and possible obscene language.
A huge thank you to all who reviewed. I love reading them so much!
Chapter 12- Bonds
"Sasuke... where is he!?" Naruto shouts desperately.
Ryoko blinks, her eyes trying desperately to focus on the blurry, blonde haired blob above her. She moans lightly as she squeezes her eyes shut once again.
"I... don't know." Ryoko moans out.
Naruto's face fades into disappointment as he looks away sullenly. Kakashi watches Naruto carefully, his brow lightly furrowed as if to say “Naruto... how can you be so quick to trust Sasuke again... after what he did to you?”
Tsunade lifts her hands from Ryoko's wound. "That is the best I can do here. We need to get her back to Konoha now, or she will die."
Kakashi nods in understanding and takes Ryoko into his hands, lifting her into a sitting position while he maneuvers her carefully to carry her bridal style. Ryoko grimaces in pain, tensing her body at the movement.
"Wait!" Ryoko gasps.
"I know it hurts, but I have to do this so bare with me." Kakashi says with a touch of a gentle tone.
"No, wait, Sasuke..." Ryoko starts in a shaky voice, and Kakashi pauses just as he is about to lift her up.
"Sasuke! You remember where he is!?" Naruto shouts, a large grin spreading across his face.
"Please tell us!" Sakura almost pleads.
Tsunade and Kakashi exchange serious looks and Tsunade closes her eyes almost painfully, shaking her head as she folds her arms. Ryoko takes in a deep breath, squeezing her eyes shut from the pain while tears leak from the corners of her eyes and slide down the sides of her face.
"We... came from the Rain... that's where we found Sasuke." Ryoko takes in another deep breath, before she continues in a forced, shaky voice. "They must be taking him back there."
Ryoko's brow tightens, as she lifts her arm as though it were made of lead, and points it in the direction that she originally came from. It is the same direction Sasuke had left in. After a moment, she lets her arm fall limply as though it were dead weight. Naruto stares off in the direction she pointed, hope brimming in his cerulean eyes.
"Who's 'they'?" Kakashi asks, his tone serious.
"...Itachi Uchiha..." Ryoko whispers, her voice beginning to crack now, "...Kisame Hoshigaki..."
Their eyes widen at the information, and Tsunade and Kakashi exchange another serious glance. Naruto’s eyes narrow slightly, never wavering from the path that Sasuke left by, as he raises his right fist in exclamation.
"Then I will go beat them and bring Sasuke back!" Naruto shouts as though he is taking an oath. "Let's go!"
"Hold on, Naruto. This is serious-" Tsunade starts, her voice chastising.
"No time, Granny Tsunade! They're getting away with him!" Naruto yells over his shoulder as he runs towards the mouth of the woods quickly.
"Naruto! Wait-! Ugh..." Kakashi lets out a moan, setting Ryoko down lightly before rubbing at the back of his head in frustration. Couldn’t he ever just listen for a moment?...
"Kakashi, you go after Naruto.” Tsunade’s voice begins firmly, “Sakura and I will bring Ryoko back to Konoha, and then send reinforcements." Her voice is its usual firm tone, and as her words finish she scoops the grimacing Ryoko off of the forest floor and stands.
Kakashi nods, creating a few summoning seals before thrusting his hands onto the ground. In a puff of smoke, Pakkun appears.
"Kakashi, long time no see." Pakkun says, looking up at him.
"No time for greetings, Pakkun. I need you to follow Naruto's scent, now." Kakashi speaks hurriedly, motioning to the ground that Naruto had been kneeling on.
Pakkun nods understandingly before sniffing at the ground in the selected location. He quickly catches the boy’s scent, mumbling a quiet, "This way.", before the two disappear in a flash.
Tsunade glances down at Ryoko once more, a fine sheen of sweat covering the girl’s paling face as even more sweat drips from her brow. Thin lines of worry had long since formed on Tsunade's face, and they only deepen as she watches the girl in her arms. She should be more stable than this... her blood loss was minimal... Why is her condition so severe…?
Tsunade glances up at Sakura, who is staring absently off into the trees, holding her hands tightly to her chest with a fretful expression playing across her soft features. "Sakura, are you alright? You haven’t said anything since Sasuke was mentioned." Tsunade’s voice is concerned, as her eyes skim over the girl.
Sakura’s eyes shift to Tsunade, a bit surprised at the sudden question. A fine blush forms on her cheeks and she nods, "I'm fine. We need to get back to Konoha."
Tsunade nods in return, as they both simultaneously turn in the direction of Konoha. Their journey beginning at a run. The older woman’s eyes glide over Sakura’s back, allowing the girl to set the pace. Letting out a sigh, she feels her age suddenly catching up to her. There is a momentary twinge of pain in her heart, and she closes her eyes briefly. They’re so young... and guided by such foolish hearts in youth. They have yet to experience the extent of the pain that comes with knowledge…
Her eyes open once more, Sakura's back still moving quickly in front of her. What it was to be young… A weak smile crosses Tsunade’s features, before she shakes her head bitterly at the rush of memories that threaten to flood before her eyes. Naruto, Sakura... you fight so hard to bring Sasuke back, as though everything will be fine the moment that he arrives home, but... With that single thought, the smile fades from Tsunade's face… You have no idea what awaits him upon his return.
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Itachi, Kisame, and I leap down from the trees, landing in a small clearing, the sound of a nearby stream twinkling in the early morning breeze. Itachi motions to Kisame, and his partner hands him a water container. Hesitantly, I do the same.
"You think we have enough time for a rest?” Kisame ventures, attempting to read into Itachi’s actions.
Itachi nods, "It does not matter if the boy gains on us. He’s weak, and the other is too far behind him to offer support." With this, Itachi turns briskly, apparently heading for the stream. What is he talking about? My eyes follow Itachi as he pushes back a bit of brush before leaning over the stream that Sasuke had heard earlier. Slowly, but efficiently my brother begins to carefully rinse out the insides of the containers.
The morning sun is beginning to peak over the trees now, staining the sky hues of pink, yellow, and a deep crimson red over the shades of blue. I gasp, as the light streams through the trees onto Itachi. It paints his skin opal, while his dark, midnight colored hair shimmers in contrast under the light of the dawning sun. I stare at the flawless beauty before me, a deep bitter pain creeping into my heart. I have to admit it now, and it is no longer anything that I can deny, just as I admitted it before, on my death bed… beneath him on the forest floor... I love him.
But I simultaneously hate him, for stealing every moment from me in my youth. I hate him, for manipulating me into betraying Naruto and for taking me from Konoha. I hate him, for murdering my clan, my clan, not his, and for then leaving me all alone. I hate him, for being the prodigy, for always being father’s son first and destroying my life... I hate him, for never seeing me, as if I am a stranger to him, and for looking right through me like glass to see all of my vulnerabilities. I hate him, for not understanding my needs and for making me into his puppet. I hate him, because I love him.
But above all, above everything else, I hate him for this. Because while I stand here admiring Itachi for how beautiful he is, Itachi will never notice. He will never see my love for him nor will he acknowledge it as anything more than another one of his possessions. This bitter hatred between us is suffocating any love that could grow, much like a snake wrapping around its prey.
"Kisame..." I almost whisper. Kisame turns to look at me, his ebony eyes sparking with surprise at my willingness to converse. "...Why does Itachi hate me?"
Kisame blinks a bit in confusion, before a frowns crosses his lips, but he remains silent. I watch Itachi rise gracefully... all of his actions are flawless. He walks slowly towards us, his movements fluid and lithe. His sheer actions sending little needles through my heart, as I take in his perfection. Itachi holds out the container to me that I glare at like it’s poison. My eyes flutter back up to meet Itachi's, and I can see it there again, a brief flicker of emotion. From inside of those perfectly still eyes worn by that expressionless face, there is a typically unseen discontent brewing.
I bite my lip carefully, sliding perfect ivory teeth deep into my tender, cherry lips. I watch Itachi's eyes flicker down to take in that single motion. His eyes almost waver at the sight of red on red, as the blood creeps out to stain them further. I slowly slide the ring off of my pinky and hold it out to him. His eyes forcibly break away from my mouth to watch as the Akatsuki ring falls to the ground spinning a little in the dust before it settles.
Itachi's eyes shoot back up, locking with mine before they narrow considerably. His face remains calm, expressionless even as his voice takes on an icy tone. "So you’ve chosen force."
"Go ahead. Do it." I challenge him. The cool in my voice, the perfect unshaken strength of my composure almost surprises even me. "I am not joining the Akatsuki... nor do I want anything to do with you." Because I know that being this near to you would kill me.
Itachi's eyes narrow even further, the emptiness of his blank expression only increasing as his eyes attempt to swallow me into their bottomless pits. His voice is even and low as he speaks, "You hate me?"
"You have no idea..." How much I love you...The voice in my head finishes seamlessly. I squeeze shut my bitter eyes.
"You have nowhere else to go." Itachi's voice is calm, controlled. Just like always… it is as soothing as it is painful.
I bite my lip once again, my composure beginning to falter. I want to scream at him. I want to make him feel how I feel. I take in another deep, shaky breath. Just below the surface I can feel my bitter rage beginning to bubble, threatening to surface. I try desperately to calm my nerves again. "None of that matters now." I answer forcibly, the volume of my voice rising slightly to convey my point.
"It doesn’t matter to you that you have nowhere to go?" Itachi’s voice drifts smoothly over me, a hint of dark ice below the surface.
I feel something inside of me snap. My fists reflexively tighten, and I can feel a couple rivulets of blood drip over the surface of my fingers as my nails dig into the flesh of my hands. I forcefully squeeze my eyelids shut even tighter causing small white lights appear behind my eyelids, as the pressure in my head spikes and begins to make me dizzy.
"SHUT THE FUCK UP! YOU HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA WHAT YOU’VE PUT ME THROUGH!" I scream, the sheer force of my voice making my throat raw. There is a moment of absolute silence, as my rage begins to subside only slightly. I take another deep breath, and my voice lowers to a cynicism that any Uchiha would be proud of, “And what do you care what the fuck happens to me!? It couldn’t be more obvious that I mean nothing to you!"
I become quiet after my sudden outburst, my breath ragged from the force of screaming. My pulse quickens as I wait quietly for him to make some sort of correction. My muscles tense as the silence thickens around me, and I can’t help but silently beg him to tell me how much I mean to him, but all that greets me is the deafening sound of my heart pounding in my ears... Right... I almost laugh at my foolishness.
"So go ahead.” I dare him, “Force me to join. You can’t force me to kill or fight though. I'll just be another death that you're responsible for." I mumble bitterly, my disappointment etched into my voice.
I wait for some sort of response, anything to break the absolute nothing surrounding me. I can’t help but expect to feel the rough surface of tree bark against my back… or the sting of a slap marring my already imperfect complexion. Although after a few minutes of tensing myself, I realize that nothing is going to come. I hear movement on the ground before me, as the leaves lightly rustle, and I feel Itachi's powerful presence disappear from in front of me. I slowly open my eyes to see that Itachi has gone, and Kisame is staring at me, shock written across his face.
I glare at Kisame harshly. "What are you looking at?" I demand venomously.
"Heh." Kisame smirks, regarding me with a newfound respect. "You must be the only person to ever talk to Itachi like that and survive."
I cast my gaze to the ground, my eyes narrowing in self-pity, "I'm still not worth killing…” My voice trails off, “I'm still too weak for him."
I can feel Kisame's gaze move over me, eyeing me guardedly as he chooses his words. His voice grates on me, his annoyance apparent, "I was going to stay out of this since it’s Itachi's business, but I'm sick of it. The two of you are just too damn proud."
My eyes shoot back up to meet his. Kisame is staring hard at me now with a frown creasing his face. My eyes narrow and my glare becomes even more intense, "My pride is the only thing I have left!" I mutter indignantly.
Kisame brushes me off, "Your brother loves you more than anything."
I stare at him in shock, the words hitting me like a brick. There’s no way. "Itachi hates me. Why else would he put me through all this, and try to kill me!"
Kisame groans slightly, "I already told you that it was just a test. Your life was never in any real danger. Itachi was upset at the thought of you joining the Akatsuki, but Leader's orders are still orders."
"Yeah, you already told me this. The leader ordered you to test me in training. But it was Itachi's idea to try to kill me as a test." I say it bitterly, my tone becoming bored with repetition. Now he’s trying to tell me that this is love? Ha ha… I can only imagine what Itachi's hatred is like...
"Quit interrupting me, kid." Kisame speaks harshly. He pauses lightly, before continuing. "Itachi was upset with the orders because he thought he might lose you. That is why Itachi's test was so severe. He wanted to make sure you wouldn't die easily as a member. He did it to protect you."
I stare at him in disbelief, the reality of what Kisame is telling me slowly sinking in. However, the world around me is beginning to feel like a dream again, as the possibility of Itachi loving me begins to numb my body. "But... how could he?" I shake my head harshly, not wanting to get my hopes up. "No, you're wrong."
Kisame sighs, as he approaches me and scoops my ring off the ground. He harshly blows the dust off of it and holds the ring out to me, the sky blue color shining in the morning sun.
"Listen, kid, you better not tell Itachi I told you this, but when we're alone, you are all he talks about." Kisame’s narrowed eyes meet my own, his tone serious.
I blink a bit in surprise. "Has it... always been that way?" I ask in disbelief.
Kisame remains quiet for a moment, before he shakes his head 'no'. "It started about a week ago… some time after you arrived. I don't think he began truly loving you until after you came with us."
I glance down at the Akatsuki ring that Kisame is holding out to me. His words echo inside of my head, and I begin to wonder, when exactly did I fall in love with Itachi? When did he stop being a brother to me, and become something so much more? I let Kisame's words sink in further, as the prospect of Itachi returning my feelings swims in my head, sending through me a new found high. I bite my lip lightly, staring down at the ring. Should I... risk my heart to my brother... one last time?
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Itachi settles on a branch far away, his nimble body slumping purposefully against the tree trunk. His figure is completely relaxed. He closes his sharingan eyes loosely, his face calm and collected. The morning sun begins to warm his porcelain skin, as he listens to the birds chirp around him cheerfully.
How impressive of Otouto to challenge me. He has grown. Itachi ponders to himself, carefully turning the events over in his head in light amusement. He calmly fingers his Akatsuki cloak as if physically manipulating what happened. I could not risk killing him despite his insolence. No, I should have more self-control.
"I should have forced him." Itachi speaks decisively, not a single crack in his voice nor any sign of sorrow or remorse. To a passerby, it could have appeared that he was commenting about the weather with how casually he spoke about such a serious topic.
"It’s not good that Otouto left. Leader will be disappointed. I will force him next time."
Itachi’s eyes slip open slowly, as he begins to scan the forest calmly for his partner.
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"It’ ;s not enough." I answer bitterly looking down at the ring. It was never enough... and his lack of love is slowly killing me. "I need him to show me that he loves me."
"Then quit your whining and make him." Kisame's voice is becoming irritated.
"It's not that easy! I've been trying since I was a kid! Itachi just... never responds."
I meet his eyes with a scowl. I'm growing tired of this guy talking like he knows me, like he knows my situation. He doesn't know what it’s like. Itachi's love is unattainable, and just making an attempt for it is the equivalent of holding a gun to your head to play Russian roulette. It may not kill you today, but eventually, everyone’s luck runs out.
I feel Kisame slide the Akatsuki ring back onto my left pinky. I meet his eyes sharply, glaring at him as I feel the urge to punch him rise within me. I jerk my hand out of his reach, feeling my entire body tense even further from his touch causing my muscles to burn with a dull ache.
"I know how to make him respond." Kisame smirks wickedly.
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Naruto skids to a halt before turning, and continuing towards the area that he heard Sasuke's scream come from. He jumps down, landing strategically behind a bush before peering gingerly from behind it. His eyes land quickly on the familiar raven haired boy before shifting to a tall, blue man who was speaking. That must be Kisame... Yeah, I think I remember Itachi calling him that from before.
The blonde glances around him quickly. The peacefulness of the forest and twinkling stream harshly clashing with the excitement and urgency that was still rushing through his body. I should probably wait for Kakashi to catch up... No… No, this can't wait!
Naruto bites his lip lightly, before he leaps from behind the bushes. I turn quickly, my eyes scanning the area, looking for the cause of the sound. Shock washes over me to find Naruto standing there, a fierce expression playing across his almost animal like features.
He points menacingly at Kisame, before yelling noisily, his voice confident, "Give Sasuke back, now! Or I'll make you regret it!"
Kisame chuckles in amusement before casually gripping the hilt of his Samehada. I glance quickly between the two, panic beginning to tighten my throat. "Kisame! Wait!" I am surprised to see Kisame actually pause, as though my words hold some weight, "Let me handle Naruto."
Kisame frowns at me with fostered disappointment before glancing back to Naruto in disdain still gripping the sword’s hilt. If I injure the kid, Itachi's little brother will probably side with him... then Itachi will... Kisame releases the hilt and nods to Sasuke, "Make it quick."
I release a mental sigh of relief, while Naruto blinks back at me in confusion. The blonde looks to me innocently as he forces a smile, "Hey, what's going on Sasuke? We’re gonna go back home together, right?"
A flash of Naruto's pained face shoots through my mind, his face twisting in anguish at my betrayal. The scene plays before my eyes once again, as the Kisame from my memories knocks the blonde out cold and drags him away… to kill him, no doubt. In my own mind, Naruto has been dead since that day…because of me. As the guilt slides through me, twisting my stomach I feel a sudden tingle along my back… The sensations striking me in the very same locations that Ryoko’s fingers had slid along my back covering me in her blood. I cannot protect them... Ryoko died because of me and now... No.
"Naruto...." I begin calmly. I must make this real. I must make sure he never comes back for me. "I am a member of Akatsuki now. I have no feelings for you or for Konoha."
I maintain my demeanor, calm and self-assured, as I watch his face fill with still more confusion, "Sasuke, what are you talking about? We're comrades."
I cross the forest floor, my feet padding silently as I approach Naruto, my composure confident with my head tilted high. Deep inside I can feel myself shaking. I lock eyes with him, his sky blue eyes filled with a thousand questions, and it strikes me how clear his eyes are even now. His eyes perfectly match the clearest part of the bluest sky. That part of the sky that I will never be able to reach no matter how high I fly. Even now… after everything, Naruto's eyes shimmer with a life that I could only dream of obtaining. Yet here I stand, before him, once again… ready to stamp it out.
I suck in a deep breath, matching Naruto's serious stare, before I speak my lies. "The Akatsuki is quite pleased I gave them the kyuubi. So, they made me a member as a reward.” I pause for a moment, letting the words sink in, “Meaning, I have no further use for you."
I wait in silence, guilt filling me, as I witness Naruto's face twisting into an expression of anguish. His face resembles my own on the night of my clan's massacre. I feel a sudden sharp pain against the left side of my face, the swiftness of the motion causing my head to snap harshly to the right. Slowly a warm liquid begins to dribble from my nose, filling it with a sharp metallic scent. I reach up to touch my face tenderly, dull pain shooting through my skull even at the gentle touch.
I turn my head stiffly back, my eyes falling across his face unaffectedly. In truth, I know that I deserve it, and a part of me wanted him to inflict some more pain on me to settle some of this guilt that was still swelling within me. Naruto simply stares back at me, his jaw set and his teeth showing slightly. I can see his eyes flash with rage, and he once again looks like a feral animal.
"Don't lie to me!” He spits out, “Do you think I am that stupid?!" His voice is hardly above a growl. Now, my face fills with surprise, because Yes, I did think he was that stupid. "Now tell me!” Naruto demands, “Why are you joining the Akatsuki?!"
There is no answer for me to give him. What am I supposed to tell him? ‘Because I have a deep incestuous love for my brother?’ I close my eyes in frustration as I clutch my fists. "Just go away, Naruto." My voice is forceful and harsh, almost cold.
"Fine..." Naruto's voice is dejected now, but still with unwavering resolve, "But I'm not going to let the Akatsuki have you... They'll just use you and throw you away! Just like yesterday's trash! I'll take you back by force if I have to!"
I sense his power spike in front of me. In the blink of an eye, a few shadow clones are standing beside the original, as they position themselves to form a Rasengan. Naruto... I glance over my shoulder to Kisame, who appears to now have a heightened interest in our situation. All I can think is, ‘If he fights Naruto...’ Growling to myself, I look down to my right hand and grip it hard aiming it towards the dirt as I begin to form Chidori.
I watch, as the lightning begins to flicker in my hand. My muscles tighten in my arm painfully as a warm heat begins to coarse throughout it creating the sensation that my tendons could snap at any minute. I bite my lip roughly as sweat begins to form on my brow, but the chakra in my hand continues to flicker weakly as it forms a small bright white Chidori. It's no use... I wasted too much of my chakra fighting Kira, even if it was just mostly absorbing the impact.
Naruto lets out a scream as his chakra condenses into a large, swirling bright blue ball. I glance towards Naruto as the force of the chakra begins to suck the air around me. I have to stop him somehow… If he fights Kisame...
It is then that Kisame appears behind Naruto, and slashes Samehada effortlessly near Naruto's chakra. A large crunching sound fills the air, like the sound of a thousand gnashing teeth, followed by the subtle pop of Naruto's clones vanishing and his Rasengan merely dissipating… Naruto blinks in surprise as he looks straight up at the much larger Kisame who is now towering over him merely smirking, his shark-like teeth glistening in the light.
Naruto takes a step back nervously, already aware of what happened from the encounter with Kisame and Itachi at the inn. Kisame smoothly raises the Samehada back up and rests it on his shoulder, still grinning.
"I said make it quick." Kisame growls.
I glance down at my weak Chidori. If I hit him now, with all of his chakra drained, I could kill him. I look back up to meet Kisame's harsh stare which has now grown impatient. But if I don't... My gaze shifts to meet Naruto, who is now staring directly back at me. He moves slowly into a defensive position, his muscles fatigued from the lack of chakra.
I can see it clearly now that all the rage has melted away. His eyes rest on me, emanating his betrayal and hurt. Despite how confident and determined his face is, his eyes are a dead giveaway. I can see the tears line the edges of those blue eyes in anguish, threatening to spill over and stain his cheeks at any moment. This cuts me that much deeper because Naruto is the only one who ever understood how I felt. He was the only one who knew what ‘alone’ felt like, and now he understands the sense of betrayal I feel as well.
I swallow hard, as the lump of shame slides down my throat and I shakily raise the Chidori up and aim at his chest. I see the look of shock form on Naruto's face, as the pain of realization settles that much deeper into his eyes. This won't kill Naruto. He’s strong. The lump slips down into my chest thickening with this new found pressure, making my actions that much more difficult with each passing breath, as the full realization of what I am about to do settles in. I can already imagine his blood on my hands... Please, God. Don't let this kill him.
"Sasuke..." Naruto breathes. His voice is heavy and tight. His eyes are begging me now… and it is then that the full reality of the situation hits me. It hurts him... because the love that he proclaimed to me before… isn’t being returned.
My eyes soften momentarily, as I take in a shaky breath, and my next words come out with a slight regretful tremble, pleading to him…
"Naruto, forgive me."
Lunging forward, I bury my weak attempt at a Chidori dead in the center of his chest. I can feel the energy leaving my body as I release my lightning chakra into him, its force chirping like a thousand birds… and, I catch a glimpse of Naruto's face just before my attack follows through... His expression will burn its way deep into the darkest corridors of my mind, only to later slowly gnaw away at my last shreds of conscience.
All I can see before me is his face morphing into a twisted tapestry of pain...
All because of my… unrequited love…
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A/N: I am going to start another ItachiXSasuke story called 'Send Me An Angel'. It isn't posted yet cause I'm not done with the first chapter. It will be a bit different from this story in that it won't be as dark and it will be more romantic. Itachi will also be a lot nicer in that one cause he'll be "good" but he won't be all mushy out of character good or super lovey duvey. So you can look for that.
anyways, hope you enjoyed the chapter. Please review!
A/N:Woot~~ Kudos to Souji :3 For being the beta-ness. No, seriously, thank you so much. I was really surprised by how much you improved the chapter. I never really thought having a beta would make that big of a difference. You're awesome!
Also, this is something Souji corrected me on. Kira does not mean killer in japanese, satsunjisha does. Kira is how the english word killer is phonetically pronounced/ written in japanese. My bad, oh well. Nevertheless, I took the name from Death Note.
To clarify on something confusing, yes I am aware Tobi (aka, the true akatsuki leader) has the sharingan as well. However, the story's setting is pre- time skip when Sasuke is still 13, so Tobi has not revealed himself yet as the true akatsuki leader so Kisame is not aware anyone else has the sharingan. This is why Kisame stated Sasuke would be the second member with the sharingan.
I tried to improve Sasuke's backbone while still keeping him vulnerable... hope I kept him in character. lol. I never really intended for him to be a complete pushover, just vulnerable.
Warning: chapter contains references to sexual content and possible obscene language.
A huge thank you to all who reviewed. I love reading them so much!
Chapter 12- Bonds
"Sasuke... where is he!?" Naruto shouts desperately.
Ryoko blinks, her eyes trying desperately to focus on the blurry, blonde haired blob above her. She moans lightly as she squeezes her eyes shut once again.
"I... don't know." Ryoko moans out.
Naruto's face fades into disappointment as he looks away sullenly. Kakashi watches Naruto carefully, his brow lightly furrowed as if to say “Naruto... how can you be so quick to trust Sasuke again... after what he did to you?”
Tsunade lifts her hands from Ryoko's wound. "That is the best I can do here. We need to get her back to Konoha now, or she will die."
Kakashi nods in understanding and takes Ryoko into his hands, lifting her into a sitting position while he maneuvers her carefully to carry her bridal style. Ryoko grimaces in pain, tensing her body at the movement.
"Wait!" Ryoko gasps.
"I know it hurts, but I have to do this so bare with me." Kakashi says with a touch of a gentle tone.
"No, wait, Sasuke..." Ryoko starts in a shaky voice, and Kakashi pauses just as he is about to lift her up.
"Sasuke! You remember where he is!?" Naruto shouts, a large grin spreading across his face.
"Please tell us!" Sakura almost pleads.
Tsunade and Kakashi exchange serious looks and Tsunade closes her eyes almost painfully, shaking her head as she folds her arms. Ryoko takes in a deep breath, squeezing her eyes shut from the pain while tears leak from the corners of her eyes and slide down the sides of her face.
"We... came from the Rain... that's where we found Sasuke." Ryoko takes in another deep breath, before she continues in a forced, shaky voice. "They must be taking him back there."
Ryoko's brow tightens, as she lifts her arm as though it were made of lead, and points it in the direction that she originally came from. It is the same direction Sasuke had left in. After a moment, she lets her arm fall limply as though it were dead weight. Naruto stares off in the direction she pointed, hope brimming in his cerulean eyes.
"Who's 'they'?" Kakashi asks, his tone serious.
"...Itachi Uchiha..." Ryoko whispers, her voice beginning to crack now, "...Kisame Hoshigaki..."
Their eyes widen at the information, and Tsunade and Kakashi exchange another serious glance. Naruto’s eyes narrow slightly, never wavering from the path that Sasuke left by, as he raises his right fist in exclamation.
"Then I will go beat them and bring Sasuke back!" Naruto shouts as though he is taking an oath. "Let's go!"
"Hold on, Naruto. This is serious-" Tsunade starts, her voice chastising.
"No time, Granny Tsunade! They're getting away with him!" Naruto yells over his shoulder as he runs towards the mouth of the woods quickly.
"Naruto! Wait-! Ugh..." Kakashi lets out a moan, setting Ryoko down lightly before rubbing at the back of his head in frustration. Couldn’t he ever just listen for a moment?...
"Kakashi, you go after Naruto.” Tsunade’s voice begins firmly, “Sakura and I will bring Ryoko back to Konoha, and then send reinforcements." Her voice is its usual firm tone, and as her words finish she scoops the grimacing Ryoko off of the forest floor and stands.
Kakashi nods, creating a few summoning seals before thrusting his hands onto the ground. In a puff of smoke, Pakkun appears.
"Kakashi, long time no see." Pakkun says, looking up at him.
"No time for greetings, Pakkun. I need you to follow Naruto's scent, now." Kakashi speaks hurriedly, motioning to the ground that Naruto had been kneeling on.
Pakkun nods understandingly before sniffing at the ground in the selected location. He quickly catches the boy’s scent, mumbling a quiet, "This way.", before the two disappear in a flash.
Tsunade glances down at Ryoko once more, a fine sheen of sweat covering the girl’s paling face as even more sweat drips from her brow. Thin lines of worry had long since formed on Tsunade's face, and they only deepen as she watches the girl in her arms. She should be more stable than this... her blood loss was minimal... Why is her condition so severe…?
Tsunade glances up at Sakura, who is staring absently off into the trees, holding her hands tightly to her chest with a fretful expression playing across her soft features. "Sakura, are you alright? You haven’t said anything since Sasuke was mentioned." Tsunade’s voice is concerned, as her eyes skim over the girl.
Sakura’s eyes shift to Tsunade, a bit surprised at the sudden question. A fine blush forms on her cheeks and she nods, "I'm fine. We need to get back to Konoha."
Tsunade nods in return, as they both simultaneously turn in the direction of Konoha. Their journey beginning at a run. The older woman’s eyes glide over Sakura’s back, allowing the girl to set the pace. Letting out a sigh, she feels her age suddenly catching up to her. There is a momentary twinge of pain in her heart, and she closes her eyes briefly. They’re so young... and guided by such foolish hearts in youth. They have yet to experience the extent of the pain that comes with knowledge…
Her eyes open once more, Sakura's back still moving quickly in front of her. What it was to be young… A weak smile crosses Tsunade’s features, before she shakes her head bitterly at the rush of memories that threaten to flood before her eyes. Naruto, Sakura... you fight so hard to bring Sasuke back, as though everything will be fine the moment that he arrives home, but... With that single thought, the smile fades from Tsunade's face… You have no idea what awaits him upon his return.
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Itachi, Kisame, and I leap down from the trees, landing in a small clearing, the sound of a nearby stream twinkling in the early morning breeze. Itachi motions to Kisame, and his partner hands him a water container. Hesitantly, I do the same.
"You think we have enough time for a rest?” Kisame ventures, attempting to read into Itachi’s actions.
Itachi nods, "It does not matter if the boy gains on us. He’s weak, and the other is too far behind him to offer support." With this, Itachi turns briskly, apparently heading for the stream. What is he talking about? My eyes follow Itachi as he pushes back a bit of brush before leaning over the stream that Sasuke had heard earlier. Slowly, but efficiently my brother begins to carefully rinse out the insides of the containers.
The morning sun is beginning to peak over the trees now, staining the sky hues of pink, yellow, and a deep crimson red over the shades of blue. I gasp, as the light streams through the trees onto Itachi. It paints his skin opal, while his dark, midnight colored hair shimmers in contrast under the light of the dawning sun. I stare at the flawless beauty before me, a deep bitter pain creeping into my heart. I have to admit it now, and it is no longer anything that I can deny, just as I admitted it before, on my death bed… beneath him on the forest floor... I love him.
But I simultaneously hate him, for stealing every moment from me in my youth. I hate him, for manipulating me into betraying Naruto and for taking me from Konoha. I hate him, for murdering my clan, my clan, not his, and for then leaving me all alone. I hate him, for being the prodigy, for always being father’s son first and destroying my life... I hate him, for never seeing me, as if I am a stranger to him, and for looking right through me like glass to see all of my vulnerabilities. I hate him, for not understanding my needs and for making me into his puppet. I hate him, because I love him.
But above all, above everything else, I hate him for this. Because while I stand here admiring Itachi for how beautiful he is, Itachi will never notice. He will never see my love for him nor will he acknowledge it as anything more than another one of his possessions. This bitter hatred between us is suffocating any love that could grow, much like a snake wrapping around its prey.
"Kisame..." I almost whisper. Kisame turns to look at me, his ebony eyes sparking with surprise at my willingness to converse. "...Why does Itachi hate me?"
Kisame blinks a bit in confusion, before a frowns crosses his lips, but he remains silent. I watch Itachi rise gracefully... all of his actions are flawless. He walks slowly towards us, his movements fluid and lithe. His sheer actions sending little needles through my heart, as I take in his perfection. Itachi holds out the container to me that I glare at like it’s poison. My eyes flutter back up to meet Itachi's, and I can see it there again, a brief flicker of emotion. From inside of those perfectly still eyes worn by that expressionless face, there is a typically unseen discontent brewing.
I bite my lip carefully, sliding perfect ivory teeth deep into my tender, cherry lips. I watch Itachi's eyes flicker down to take in that single motion. His eyes almost waver at the sight of red on red, as the blood creeps out to stain them further. I slowly slide the ring off of my pinky and hold it out to him. His eyes forcibly break away from my mouth to watch as the Akatsuki ring falls to the ground spinning a little in the dust before it settles.
Itachi's eyes shoot back up, locking with mine before they narrow considerably. His face remains calm, expressionless even as his voice takes on an icy tone. "So you’ve chosen force."
"Go ahead. Do it." I challenge him. The cool in my voice, the perfect unshaken strength of my composure almost surprises even me. "I am not joining the Akatsuki... nor do I want anything to do with you." Because I know that being this near to you would kill me.
Itachi's eyes narrow even further, the emptiness of his blank expression only increasing as his eyes attempt to swallow me into their bottomless pits. His voice is even and low as he speaks, "You hate me?"
"You have no idea..." How much I love you...The voice in my head finishes seamlessly. I squeeze shut my bitter eyes.
"You have nowhere else to go." Itachi's voice is calm, controlled. Just like always… it is as soothing as it is painful.
I bite my lip once again, my composure beginning to falter. I want to scream at him. I want to make him feel how I feel. I take in another deep, shaky breath. Just below the surface I can feel my bitter rage beginning to bubble, threatening to surface. I try desperately to calm my nerves again. "None of that matters now." I answer forcibly, the volume of my voice rising slightly to convey my point.
"It doesn’t matter to you that you have nowhere to go?" Itachi’s voice drifts smoothly over me, a hint of dark ice below the surface.
I feel something inside of me snap. My fists reflexively tighten, and I can feel a couple rivulets of blood drip over the surface of my fingers as my nails dig into the flesh of my hands. I forcefully squeeze my eyelids shut even tighter causing small white lights appear behind my eyelids, as the pressure in my head spikes and begins to make me dizzy.
"SHUT THE FUCK UP! YOU HAVE ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA WHAT YOU’VE PUT ME THROUGH!" I scream, the sheer force of my voice making my throat raw. There is a moment of absolute silence, as my rage begins to subside only slightly. I take another deep breath, and my voice lowers to a cynicism that any Uchiha would be proud of, “And what do you care what the fuck happens to me!? It couldn’t be more obvious that I mean nothing to you!"
I become quiet after my sudden outburst, my breath ragged from the force of screaming. My pulse quickens as I wait quietly for him to make some sort of correction. My muscles tense as the silence thickens around me, and I can’t help but silently beg him to tell me how much I mean to him, but all that greets me is the deafening sound of my heart pounding in my ears... Right... I almost laugh at my foolishness.
"So go ahead.” I dare him, “Force me to join. You can’t force me to kill or fight though. I'll just be another death that you're responsible for." I mumble bitterly, my disappointment etched into my voice.
I wait for some sort of response, anything to break the absolute nothing surrounding me. I can’t help but expect to feel the rough surface of tree bark against my back… or the sting of a slap marring my already imperfect complexion. Although after a few minutes of tensing myself, I realize that nothing is going to come. I hear movement on the ground before me, as the leaves lightly rustle, and I feel Itachi's powerful presence disappear from in front of me. I slowly open my eyes to see that Itachi has gone, and Kisame is staring at me, shock written across his face.
I glare at Kisame harshly. "What are you looking at?" I demand venomously.
"Heh." Kisame smirks, regarding me with a newfound respect. "You must be the only person to ever talk to Itachi like that and survive."
I cast my gaze to the ground, my eyes narrowing in self-pity, "I'm still not worth killing…” My voice trails off, “I'm still too weak for him."
I can feel Kisame's gaze move over me, eyeing me guardedly as he chooses his words. His voice grates on me, his annoyance apparent, "I was going to stay out of this since it’s Itachi's business, but I'm sick of it. The two of you are just too damn proud."
My eyes shoot back up to meet his. Kisame is staring hard at me now with a frown creasing his face. My eyes narrow and my glare becomes even more intense, "My pride is the only thing I have left!" I mutter indignantly.
Kisame brushes me off, "Your brother loves you more than anything."
I stare at him in shock, the words hitting me like a brick. There’s no way. "Itachi hates me. Why else would he put me through all this, and try to kill me!"
Kisame groans slightly, "I already told you that it was just a test. Your life was never in any real danger. Itachi was upset at the thought of you joining the Akatsuki, but Leader's orders are still orders."
"Yeah, you already told me this. The leader ordered you to test me in training. But it was Itachi's idea to try to kill me as a test." I say it bitterly, my tone becoming bored with repetition. Now he’s trying to tell me that this is love? Ha ha… I can only imagine what Itachi's hatred is like...
"Quit interrupting me, kid." Kisame speaks harshly. He pauses lightly, before continuing. "Itachi was upset with the orders because he thought he might lose you. That is why Itachi's test was so severe. He wanted to make sure you wouldn't die easily as a member. He did it to protect you."
I stare at him in disbelief, the reality of what Kisame is telling me slowly sinking in. However, the world around me is beginning to feel like a dream again, as the possibility of Itachi loving me begins to numb my body. "But... how could he?" I shake my head harshly, not wanting to get my hopes up. "No, you're wrong."
Kisame sighs, as he approaches me and scoops my ring off the ground. He harshly blows the dust off of it and holds the ring out to me, the sky blue color shining in the morning sun.
"Listen, kid, you better not tell Itachi I told you this, but when we're alone, you are all he talks about." Kisame’s narrowed eyes meet my own, his tone serious.
I blink a bit in surprise. "Has it... always been that way?" I ask in disbelief.
Kisame remains quiet for a moment, before he shakes his head 'no'. "It started about a week ago… some time after you arrived. I don't think he began truly loving you until after you came with us."
I glance down at the Akatsuki ring that Kisame is holding out to me. His words echo inside of my head, and I begin to wonder, when exactly did I fall in love with Itachi? When did he stop being a brother to me, and become something so much more? I let Kisame's words sink in further, as the prospect of Itachi returning my feelings swims in my head, sending through me a new found high. I bite my lip lightly, staring down at the ring. Should I... risk my heart to my brother... one last time?
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Itachi settles on a branch far away, his nimble body slumping purposefully against the tree trunk. His figure is completely relaxed. He closes his sharingan eyes loosely, his face calm and collected. The morning sun begins to warm his porcelain skin, as he listens to the birds chirp around him cheerfully.
How impressive of Otouto to challenge me. He has grown. Itachi ponders to himself, carefully turning the events over in his head in light amusement. He calmly fingers his Akatsuki cloak as if physically manipulating what happened. I could not risk killing him despite his insolence. No, I should have more self-control.
"I should have forced him." Itachi speaks decisively, not a single crack in his voice nor any sign of sorrow or remorse. To a passerby, it could have appeared that he was commenting about the weather with how casually he spoke about such a serious topic.
"It’s not good that Otouto left. Leader will be disappointed. I will force him next time."
Itachi’s eyes slip open slowly, as he begins to scan the forest calmly for his partner.
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"It’ ;s not enough." I answer bitterly looking down at the ring. It was never enough... and his lack of love is slowly killing me. "I need him to show me that he loves me."
"Then quit your whining and make him." Kisame's voice is becoming irritated.
"It's not that easy! I've been trying since I was a kid! Itachi just... never responds."
I meet his eyes with a scowl. I'm growing tired of this guy talking like he knows me, like he knows my situation. He doesn't know what it’s like. Itachi's love is unattainable, and just making an attempt for it is the equivalent of holding a gun to your head to play Russian roulette. It may not kill you today, but eventually, everyone’s luck runs out.
I feel Kisame slide the Akatsuki ring back onto my left pinky. I meet his eyes sharply, glaring at him as I feel the urge to punch him rise within me. I jerk my hand out of his reach, feeling my entire body tense even further from his touch causing my muscles to burn with a dull ache.
"I know how to make him respond." Kisame smirks wickedly.
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Naruto skids to a halt before turning, and continuing towards the area that he heard Sasuke's scream come from. He jumps down, landing strategically behind a bush before peering gingerly from behind it. His eyes land quickly on the familiar raven haired boy before shifting to a tall, blue man who was speaking. That must be Kisame... Yeah, I think I remember Itachi calling him that from before.
The blonde glances around him quickly. The peacefulness of the forest and twinkling stream harshly clashing with the excitement and urgency that was still rushing through his body. I should probably wait for Kakashi to catch up... No… No, this can't wait!
Naruto bites his lip lightly, before he leaps from behind the bushes. I turn quickly, my eyes scanning the area, looking for the cause of the sound. Shock washes over me to find Naruto standing there, a fierce expression playing across his almost animal like features.
He points menacingly at Kisame, before yelling noisily, his voice confident, "Give Sasuke back, now! Or I'll make you regret it!"
Kisame chuckles in amusement before casually gripping the hilt of his Samehada. I glance quickly between the two, panic beginning to tighten my throat. "Kisame! Wait!" I am surprised to see Kisame actually pause, as though my words hold some weight, "Let me handle Naruto."
Kisame frowns at me with fostered disappointment before glancing back to Naruto in disdain still gripping the sword’s hilt. If I injure the kid, Itachi's little brother will probably side with him... then Itachi will... Kisame releases the hilt and nods to Sasuke, "Make it quick."
I release a mental sigh of relief, while Naruto blinks back at me in confusion. The blonde looks to me innocently as he forces a smile, "Hey, what's going on Sasuke? We’re gonna go back home together, right?"
A flash of Naruto's pained face shoots through my mind, his face twisting in anguish at my betrayal. The scene plays before my eyes once again, as the Kisame from my memories knocks the blonde out cold and drags him away… to kill him, no doubt. In my own mind, Naruto has been dead since that day…because of me. As the guilt slides through me, twisting my stomach I feel a sudden tingle along my back… The sensations striking me in the very same locations that Ryoko’s fingers had slid along my back covering me in her blood. I cannot protect them... Ryoko died because of me and now... No.
"Naruto...." I begin calmly. I must make this real. I must make sure he never comes back for me. "I am a member of Akatsuki now. I have no feelings for you or for Konoha."
I maintain my demeanor, calm and self-assured, as I watch his face fill with still more confusion, "Sasuke, what are you talking about? We're comrades."
I cross the forest floor, my feet padding silently as I approach Naruto, my composure confident with my head tilted high. Deep inside I can feel myself shaking. I lock eyes with him, his sky blue eyes filled with a thousand questions, and it strikes me how clear his eyes are even now. His eyes perfectly match the clearest part of the bluest sky. That part of the sky that I will never be able to reach no matter how high I fly. Even now… after everything, Naruto's eyes shimmer with a life that I could only dream of obtaining. Yet here I stand, before him, once again… ready to stamp it out.
I suck in a deep breath, matching Naruto's serious stare, before I speak my lies. "The Akatsuki is quite pleased I gave them the kyuubi. So, they made me a member as a reward.” I pause for a moment, letting the words sink in, “Meaning, I have no further use for you."
I wait in silence, guilt filling me, as I witness Naruto's face twisting into an expression of anguish. His face resembles my own on the night of my clan's massacre. I feel a sudden sharp pain against the left side of my face, the swiftness of the motion causing my head to snap harshly to the right. Slowly a warm liquid begins to dribble from my nose, filling it with a sharp metallic scent. I reach up to touch my face tenderly, dull pain shooting through my skull even at the gentle touch.
I turn my head stiffly back, my eyes falling across his face unaffectedly. In truth, I know that I deserve it, and a part of me wanted him to inflict some more pain on me to settle some of this guilt that was still swelling within me. Naruto simply stares back at me, his jaw set and his teeth showing slightly. I can see his eyes flash with rage, and he once again looks like a feral animal.
"Don't lie to me!” He spits out, “Do you think I am that stupid?!" His voice is hardly above a growl. Now, my face fills with surprise, because Yes, I did think he was that stupid. "Now tell me!” Naruto demands, “Why are you joining the Akatsuki?!"
There is no answer for me to give him. What am I supposed to tell him? ‘Because I have a deep incestuous love for my brother?’ I close my eyes in frustration as I clutch my fists. "Just go away, Naruto." My voice is forceful and harsh, almost cold.
"Fine..." Naruto's voice is dejected now, but still with unwavering resolve, "But I'm not going to let the Akatsuki have you... They'll just use you and throw you away! Just like yesterday's trash! I'll take you back by force if I have to!"
I sense his power spike in front of me. In the blink of an eye, a few shadow clones are standing beside the original, as they position themselves to form a Rasengan. Naruto... I glance over my shoulder to Kisame, who appears to now have a heightened interest in our situation. All I can think is, ‘If he fights Naruto...’ Growling to myself, I look down to my right hand and grip it hard aiming it towards the dirt as I begin to form Chidori.
I watch, as the lightning begins to flicker in my hand. My muscles tighten in my arm painfully as a warm heat begins to coarse throughout it creating the sensation that my tendons could snap at any minute. I bite my lip roughly as sweat begins to form on my brow, but the chakra in my hand continues to flicker weakly as it forms a small bright white Chidori. It's no use... I wasted too much of my chakra fighting Kira, even if it was just mostly absorbing the impact.
Naruto lets out a scream as his chakra condenses into a large, swirling bright blue ball. I glance towards Naruto as the force of the chakra begins to suck the air around me. I have to stop him somehow… If he fights Kisame...
It is then that Kisame appears behind Naruto, and slashes Samehada effortlessly near Naruto's chakra. A large crunching sound fills the air, like the sound of a thousand gnashing teeth, followed by the subtle pop of Naruto's clones vanishing and his Rasengan merely dissipating… Naruto blinks in surprise as he looks straight up at the much larger Kisame who is now towering over him merely smirking, his shark-like teeth glistening in the light.
Naruto takes a step back nervously, already aware of what happened from the encounter with Kisame and Itachi at the inn. Kisame smoothly raises the Samehada back up and rests it on his shoulder, still grinning.
"I said make it quick." Kisame growls.
I glance down at my weak Chidori. If I hit him now, with all of his chakra drained, I could kill him. I look back up to meet Kisame's harsh stare which has now grown impatient. But if I don't... My gaze shifts to meet Naruto, who is now staring directly back at me. He moves slowly into a defensive position, his muscles fatigued from the lack of chakra.
I can see it clearly now that all the rage has melted away. His eyes rest on me, emanating his betrayal and hurt. Despite how confident and determined his face is, his eyes are a dead giveaway. I can see the tears line the edges of those blue eyes in anguish, threatening to spill over and stain his cheeks at any moment. This cuts me that much deeper because Naruto is the only one who ever understood how I felt. He was the only one who knew what ‘alone’ felt like, and now he understands the sense of betrayal I feel as well.
I swallow hard, as the lump of shame slides down my throat and I shakily raise the Chidori up and aim at his chest. I see the look of shock form on Naruto's face, as the pain of realization settles that much deeper into his eyes. This won't kill Naruto. He’s strong. The lump slips down into my chest thickening with this new found pressure, making my actions that much more difficult with each passing breath, as the full realization of what I am about to do settles in. I can already imagine his blood on my hands... Please, God. Don't let this kill him.
"Sasuke..." Naruto breathes. His voice is heavy and tight. His eyes are begging me now… and it is then that the full reality of the situation hits me. It hurts him... because the love that he proclaimed to me before… isn’t being returned.
My eyes soften momentarily, as I take in a shaky breath, and my next words come out with a slight regretful tremble, pleading to him…
"Naruto, forgive me."
Lunging forward, I bury my weak attempt at a Chidori dead in the center of his chest. I can feel the energy leaving my body as I release my lightning chakra into him, its force chirping like a thousand birds… and, I catch a glimpse of Naruto's face just before my attack follows through... His expression will burn its way deep into the darkest corridors of my mind, only to later slowly gnaw away at my last shreds of conscience.
All I can see before me is his face morphing into a twisted tapestry of pain...
All because of my… unrequited love…
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A/N: I am going to start another ItachiXSasuke story called 'Send Me An Angel'. It isn't posted yet cause I'm not done with the first chapter. It will be a bit different from this story in that it won't be as dark and it will be more romantic. Itachi will also be a lot nicer in that one cause he'll be "good" but he won't be all mushy out of character good or super lovey duvey. So you can look for that.
anyways, hope you enjoyed the chapter. Please review!