Many years have passed since you last saw him, before he left Team 7 to join the Akatsuki. Despite everything, your desire to find him has never diminished....

The forest was thick with shadows as you navigated through the dense undergrowth, your heart pounding with every step. Your breath caught as you finally stepped into a small clearing and there he was - Sasuke Uchiha. He stood with his back to you, draped in the unmistakable black cloak of the Akatsuki, the red clouds a stark contrast to the darkness of his clothing.

You called him, your voice breaking the heavy silence. He turned slowly, his Sharingan eyes meeting yours with a piercing gaze. There was no warmth, no flicker of recognition - just cold indifference. His expression remained unreadable, guarded behind the emotional walls he had so carefully constructed.

"What are you doing here?" Sasuke's voice was calm, but tinged with irritation. It was a tone you hadn't heard before, one that sent a shiver down your spine. There was no trace of the boy you once knew; this was the Sasuke who had chosen a path far from yours.

He knew that you were here to bring him back.

Sasuke's eyes narrowed slightly and he let out a low, dismissive scoff. "There's nothing back there for me." His voice was flat, devoid of any emotion that might betray his inner conflict.

"You shouldn't have come," he continued, turning his back on you. "This is not your place. Go back to Konoha where you belong."

But Sasuke didn't turn. He stood still, the wind rustling his cloak as he spoke, his voice low and determined. "I have made my choice. Leave or I won't hesitate."

His threat hung heavy in the air and you knew he meant it. This was the Sasuke who had chosen revenge over friendship, power over the bonds he once cherished.