You're right, Itachi was very busy preparing everything for Sauske's path to be laid. Even in his dying death he was paving the way for Sauske to be protected from Konoha and Danzou. Im sure he knew Zetsu would watch, he had to show how strong Sauske wasso he could take his place in Akatsuki, keeping him safe. Theres bad news in Akatsuki too, so he gave Sauske a gift to keep him safe from Madara as well. Kind of a rocks and a hard spot, eh?Itachi held back a lot. He used everythin , but did not really harmed Sasuke.
He also was not just sitting waiting for Sasuke. While Sasuke fought with Deidara, Itachi seeked out Naruto and gave some of his power To Naruto. he was tired and ill. but he was doing everything he could for Sasuke.
Itachi certainly not intended to kill Sasuke if he was making efforts to get Naruto and seek some kind of assurance from him to take care of him(Sasuke)
Itachi's character was always intiguing to me. Madara didn't tell the whole truth , but he didn't tell outright lies either.
Kisame and Suigetsu are brothers? I missed that part ....
Off course Sasuke formed a team. He learnt his lesson of team work well. Plus Orochimaru knew the best Loyal soldiers around him. Sasuke was his apprentice.![]()
As for Kisame and Suigetsu being brothers, I do my research.