Eight years… His appearance heavily suggested otherwise. His body was that of a developed teenager, a man, even. He was taller than Gaara, had broader shoulders, and by the look of his exposed abdomen, was more muscular. Luke must not have been created at the birth of his original, then. That would be Asch, presumably. He also mentioned that he didn’t know much about the outside world, and had only explored it for… approximately a year or so?

“You can take this opportunity to acquire more knowledge,” Gaara remarked quietly, turning to make a quick gesture toward the district behind them. “Books are extremely informative, as well as observing other individuals.”

He was similar to the other redhead in that regard, although, interestingly enough, Luke seemed to be better adjusted. How could he already appear so calm and relaxed, and this skilled with social interaction, given his past circumstances? That journey around his world must have taught him a great deal. A twinge of negative emotion pulled a frown over Gaara’s brows, but as usual, he said nothing to indicate his inner thoughts.

“Yes.”

And with that, he headed toward the entrance of the building, and waited for Luke to show him where the network was located. Or rather, the communication device that could utilize it.