He stumbled as the voice startled him from behind. Unfortunately, there was nothing to catch himself on, and he fell to the ground on his hands and knees.

He spun around as quickly as he could. But looking up at Sasuke was like looking at a ghost. His heart sank. His breathing was ragged. He'd failed her... him... someone... once, always... This place, this second chance... Stop. Just stop.

Itachi closed his eyes. He forced composure. He forced what he could of the old facade back on his face. When he opened his eyes again, his mangekyo were active.

"Go home, Sasuke." he replied sternly. "To mother and father."