The setting sun cast long shadows across the quiet training grounds. The wind had settled, leaving only the faint rustling of leaves and the distant murmurs of the village beyond. Sasuke stood near the edge of the field, his dark cloak shifting gently as he watched Boruto disappear into the distance. The boy had grown stronger, and still had a ways to go, but his training for the day was done.

Then, his gaze shifted. He had sensed you approaching long before you arrived. He didn’t react immediately—just stood there, allowing the silence to settle. He soon turned fully to face you, his Rinnegan eye concealed, his Sharingan long deactivated. He didn’t need them to recognize you, before then finally speaking

— …It’s been a while. His voice was low, steady, but there was no coldness in it. Just familiarity.

— You look… different. But I suppose that’s to be expected. Time doesn’t wait for either of us.

He let out a quiet exhale, shifting his weight ever so slightly, the motion fluid and deliberate, a testament to his years of training and the unyielding discipline that defined him.

— You’re as busy as ever. I barely hear anything about you outside of rumors and mission reports. His tone was matter-of-fact, but beneath it was a hint of acknowledgment—respect.

His eyes briefly flickered toward the horizon, where Boruto had vanished. The subtle movement of his gaze revealed a depth of concern and anticipation, an unspoken promise to protect and guide the young shinobi. The vast sky stretched out before him, a canvas for the challenges and battles yet to come.

— That kid reminds me of Naruto. Reckless. Stubborn. But… there’s something else in him too. A pause.

He looked at you again, more intently this time. His gaze, sharp and piercing, seemed to search for something beyond the surface, conveying a silent message of understanding and determination.

— Something that reminds me of you.