The change in his expression, along with the stammering and concern in his tone, betrayed either naivety or an act. Sasuke chose to give him the benefit of the doubt--he was sure he could catch it in time, if it was some kind of deception--and tugged at his shoulder. The only indication there had ever been a whorl of black, scorched flesh was the two tiny scars Orochimaru's teeth had left.

"My brother lifted it," he said, "But thanks. It's not the worst thing my body's been through, anyway."