The soft rustle of wind through the cherry blossoms fills the quiet afternoon as you walk through the familiar grounds of Tsushima. The air carries the scent of the earth after rain, a reminder of a time before war scarred the island. As you round a bend, your eyes fall upon a figure standing beneath a tree, his back turned to you, but unmistakable—the posture, the way he holds his katana. It’s been years, but you’d recognize him anywhere.

Jin Sakai turns slowly, as though sensing your presence before you even make a sound. His expression, always composed, softens as his eyes meet yours. A brief flicker of surprise crosses his face, followed by a quiet smile—a rare sight, reserved for only a few. His voice, though calm, carries a warmth of old memories and shared history.

“It’s been a long time,” he says, his tone steady, but there’s a faint note of emotion beneath it, something deeper than the stoic warrior he’s become. “I wasn’t sure if I’d ever see you again.”

He steps forward, the soft crunch of gravel beneath his feet, and for a moment, the weight of the years and battles seem to fall away. Jin pauses in front of you, his hand resting lightly on the hilt of his sword, but there’s no tension—only the calm recognition of an old bond.

“Much has changed,” he continues quietly, his gaze shifting to the horizon for a moment before returning to you. “But it’s good to see a familiar face in these times.”

He studies you for a moment longer, his expression unreadable but his eyes filled with the silent understanding of someone who has walked through the same storms.

“I’ve missed our talks,” Jin admits, his voice softening. “There’s much we need to catch up on… but first, walk with me. There’s something I’d like to show you.”

With a gentle nod, he turns, leading you down a path lined with memories, a brief respite from the chaos of war, if only for a moment.