[ This is the first real exercise in self-control he's been subjected to since his battle with Naruto and his true commitment to change, every word about Konoha or Itachi making his skin crawl with the freshness of those particular wounds but he doesn't move an inch. He's certainly heard worse, from allies and enemies alike, and his own crippling inclination towards guilt -- especially now, having settled on his latest twin goals of redemption and rectification -- keeps him quiet throughout.

He only watches when Suigetsu's aim momentarily falters before steadying, pinned next by eyes that seem almost as sharp as his when they have a target in sight. ]

I used you. [ The sudden admission is stated clearly; he refuses to skirt around it. ]

I used you just like you'd planned to use me, and when I was caught up in my goals I didn't think twice about what was more important to me. You continued to help, I continued to focus my eyes elsewhere. I'm not trying to rewrite our history. I don't have any reason to lie to try to improve my standing when I have as many marks on my name as I do.

Do you get it? I'm not telling you to shut up right now and I'm not making excuses. I know what I did. But if you're going to choose to attack me right now I can't afford to make it up to you by letting you succeed.