With Naruto, Yamato, and Sakura's arrival, the thrilling training battle between Orochimaru and Sasuke gradually drew to a close.
Sasuke's gaze immediately found Naruto. A brilliant smile spread across his face, and he called out loudly, "Naruto!"
Naruto returned his smile. "Sasuke!"
Like magnets, the two were drawn to each other. They hurried over, then clasped hands and embraced, expressing their deep friendship in the most heartfelt way.
Sasuke raised an eyebrow provocatively and grinned. "You finally made it. I'm completely different from how I used to be." His words brimmed with confidence.
By then, Orochimaru had put his shirt back on and walked over to Naruto, wearing a satisfied smile. "Naruto-kun, I've missed you so much." He sized Naruto up, secretly admiring how, just as he'd expected, three years had turned him into someone both powerful and handsome.
Naruto teased him in reply, "Orochimaru, I'm not into men." His words drew a ripple of laughter from those around them.
Orochimaru laughed too, not taking Naruto's joke to heart.
Sakura had also come to Sasuke's side. "Sasuke-kun," she called softly, her voice gentle and full of expectation.
Looking at Sasuke's familiar figure, Sakura's thoughts drifted back to the days they'd spent together, fighting side by side and growing together.
A smile appeared on Sasuke's face as he softly replied, "Sakura." His voice was quiet, but filled with the joy of their reunion.
Then, eager to show off the results of his training, Sasuke looked at Orochimaru, his eyes shining with anticipation.
Orochimaru obligingly led Sakura out of the way, clearing enough space for Sasuke and Naruto.
He stepped back to the stands and quietly watched the upcoming match alongside Yamato, Sakura, and Karin.
When Yamato noticed Orochimaru standing beside him, he couldn't help shivering.
Though he tried hard to stay