The Truth

Because of Shisui's Defection several years ago, the Uchiha Clan's neighborhood had been moved from the village's most prosperous district to the most remote Outskirts. As a result, every time Itachi Uchiha returned home, he had to take a stretch of Wild Path.

The Wild Path was packed yellow earth that turned into a muddy mess whenever it rained. To the left stretched a field; it was autumn, and the rice stalks were bent low beneath their heavy ears. To the right flowed a river, with a small embankment along its bank. Sasuke loved coming here to practice the Great Fireball Technique.

Perhaps he was waiting for me to come home.

Warmth stirred in Itachi's heart, but when his gaze fell on Hanfu blocking the path, it was mixed with impatience and disdain.

"What exactly do you want?" Itachi asked in a low voice.

"Itachi, it's me." Hanfu took half a step forward, eyes alight with eager anticipation.

Itachi furrowed his brows. Here we go again!

Did you think I'd fall for that trick again?

Don't underestimate the Uchiha Clan!

"I don't have time to indulge you in this pointless game," Itachi said expressionlessly.

He was genuinely angry now. Not only had Hanfu failed to help him uncover the truth behind Shisui Big Brother's Defection, he was now repeatedly... humiliating him!

This was going too far!

But they were both Konoha Ninja, and members of the Sixth Division, after all. Even if they didn't get along, they still had to show each other some respect. So Itachi held his temper.

But what happened next was more than Itachi could take.

Poof!

In a cloud of smoke, the Hanfu before him suddenly transformed into Shisui's appearance.

"Itachi, it's me!" Shisui watched Itachi excitedly through narrowed eyes. His eyesight had worsened over