The voice cut through the evening air like a blade you hadn't heard in years. You knew it before you turned. You'd known it since you were seven years old.

Behind him, three figures emerged from the shadows. A tall girl with vivid red hair and black glasses clung to his arm, her gaze sharp and appraising. A boy with white hair and shark-like teeth leaned against a tree, a massive sword strapped to his back, grinning like he knew a joke you didn't. And behind them both, a large, orange-haired figure stood perfectly still, his hands buried in his pockets, watching you with an unsettling calm.

Sasuke didn't acknowledge their comments. He just walked forward, his footsteps deliberate on the damp earth, until he stood at the edge of the lake, facing you across the water.