SASUKE: The Beginning Of The Journey.

Chapter 4: How Important You Are.

The sun was still high in the sky, casting long shadows across the riverbank where Sasuke was training. His clothes were drenched in sweat, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he pushed himself to his limits. He was alone, the usual chatter and laughter of Hinata and Hanabi noticeably absent.

"FIRE STYLE: FIREBALL JUTSU!" Sasuke roared, his voice echoing through the empty training grounds. Flames erupted from his hands. But the flames were very small that is even the size of a hand. He has started to feel frustrated that he can't do it on the first try.

"Why...why is it always Itachi?" Sasuke muttered to himself, his fists clenched tightly. "I'm doing my best...I want to make you proud, Father". Sasuke thought to himself.

I know, I was not born as talented as Itachi. I know I'm not what you expect me to be. But I'm doing all my best, father. Sasuke thought while his tears were starting to fall.

(FLASHBACK)

Sasuke was wandering through the Uchiha compound when he heard the low murmur of voices. Curiosity piqued, he followed the sound, finding himself outside his parents' room. The door was slightly ajar, allowing him to hear the conversation within.

"His progress is remarkable, Fugaku," a soft voice said, undoubtedly his mother's. "Sasuke is just as talented as Itachi."

"But he's not Itachi," his father's stern voice replied. He can't even do a simple "fireball jutsu" at such a young age. Unlike Itachi, Mikoto. Fugaku said to his wife.

Itachi in the same age as he is, can already do a simple "fireball jutsu" first try. Fugaku said with a stoic expression.

That's exactly the point dear, you can't possibly expect him to just actually do it on his first try, right? Mikoto said to her husband.

I know. That's why he is not like Itachi. And he will never be like him. Fugaku said with a stoic expression.

Mikoto frowned and said. How can you even say that to him, he is your son, Fugaku. Mikoto said angrily.

"He needs to understand that he has his own path to follow". Fugaku said with a stoic face.

Mikoto sighed and said. Did you at least teach him how to do "the fireball jutsu" right? Mikoto said to Fugaku.

Yes, I already did, I showed him how to do it. I teach him how to perform the hand sign. Fugaku said with a stoic face.

That's up to him if he will do what I taught him to do. Fugaku thought to himself.

Sasuke's heart clenched at his father's words. He knew he was not Itachi, he didn't need to be reminded. But he also wanted his father's approval, his recognition. He wanted to be seen as more than just 'Itachi's little brother'.

With a heavy heart, Sasuke turned away from the door, his mind filled with determination. He would prove to his father that he was just as capable, just as strong. He would carve his path, and make his family proud.

(END OF FLASHBACK)

Sasuke wiped his fallen tears, as his eyes snapped open, his resolve stronger than ever. He would not let his father's words deter him. He would continue to train, to grow stronger. He would show everyone just how important he was.

"FIRE STYLE: FIREBALL JUTSU!" Sasuke shouted, his voice echoing through the empty training grounds. But the flames were still small as the size of a hand. He will never give up on his training. This is his testament to Sasuke's unwavering determination.

And so, Sasuke continued his training, his heart filled with a burning desire to prove his worth. He was not just Itachi's little brother. He was Uchiha Sasuke, and he would make his mark on the world.

And for an hour of training, Sasuke was still training non-stop on the river bank. His face was finally having some bruises on it. And he looked at his shaking hands with a tired look. But he ignored it and still kept going with his training.

And suddenly, he hears some footsteps approaching him. He glances back to see Hinata and Hanabi looking at him with a surprised look on their faces.

Sasuke, you're here already. Hanabi said in surprise, but Sasuke ignored her and still kept going.