I will resign

Far away, under his mask, Kazuya's expression turned oddly amused. 

Orochimaru-san, are you really uninterested in this fake Sharingan? If you truly are, that's hilarious! It seems even someone as powerful as Orochimaru can't break free from his own biases. 

Kakashi's Sharingan... this might be one of the strongest Sharingan in Uchiha history. Perhaps the strongest. If both Sharingan were combined, with Kamui for attack and Hollow for defense, even the Ōtsutsuki clan would be in trouble!

In the future, Orochimaru develops a twisted obsession with the Sharingan. It's a pity he missed out on one of the strongest today. This must be fate!

Kazuya knew it was his turn to make an entrance and seize the spotlight.

With a flash of white light, Kazuya appeared in front of Orochimaru like a lightning bolt. Before Orochimaru could react, Kazuya struck again, causing Orochimaru to scream as he was sent flying.

Damn! It's that Anbu again! Orochimaru thought, enraged. 

Kazuya stood proudly, like a mountain, blocking the terrified Kakashi.

"Teacher!?" Kakashi's eyes widened. He recognized that familiar figure. "Captain... it's you!!!"

Kazuya nodded, concerned. "Sorry I'm late, Kakashi. Are you hurt?"

I'm late... Kakashi's mind flashed back to his nightmare after the Kannabi Bridge battle. His teacher had also apologized with guilt back then. Why did Captain Kazuya save him, after all he killed Rin with his own hands? Why!?

Kazuya stared down Orochimaru, his voice firm. "Stop, Orochimaru! I won't allow you to harm the ninjas of this village. They are my cherished companions!"

His words were powerful and unwavering. Kazuya was satisfied with his performance. 

Orochimaru stood up, humiliated and furious. The wounds on his body were evidence of Kazuya's precision. This Anbu... what a relentless bastard!

"You...," Orochimaru seethed, "tell me your name, Anbu. In exchange, I won't kill you today!"

The intensity of Orochimaru's gaze made Kakashi's heart skip a beat.

"Orochimaru, you'll know my name in due time," Kazuya responded coolly.

"Snort!" Orochimaru sneered. "I will remember you!"

With a burst of white smoke, Orochimaru disappeared, leaving Kazuya standing firm. He had no intention of pursuing. Orochimaru was too valuable. Kazuya looked forward to future encounters, where Orochimaru's innovations could provide him with even more attributes to harvest.

"Orochimaru fled," Kazuya observed, turning to Kakashi.

"Captain..." Kakashi's voice was filled with guilt. "I'm sorry!"

"Don't apologize," Kazuya smiled. "Kakashi, you are my cherished companion. Your life is more important than any mission."

More important than the mission... Kakashi's heart warmed. Senior Kazuya didn't hate him at all.

"Captain!" Kakashi bowed deeply, tears streaming down his face. At that moment, Kazuya was the guiding light in his life.

Despite Orochimaru's escape, the Third Hokage was still furious and summoned all Anbu to capture him alive. Even Danzo's Root organization got involved, though their motives were questionable.

"Kazuya!" On the roof of the Hokage building, Sarutobi Hiruzen patted Kazuya's shoulder. "You did well on this mission. Don't feel guilty for not capturing Orochimaru."

Nara Shikaku added, "Kazuya-kun, you did excellently. Orochimaru is a formidable opponent. Fighting him to a standstill is no small feat."

Sarutobi continued, "Don't feel bad. Both Anbu and the village need your strength. Relax. After this mission, I have a special assignment for you in the Land of Hot Water."

The Land of Hot Water? Kazuya was puzzled but nodded without objection.

When Kazuya returned, he took full responsibility for Orochimaru's escape, even offering to resign as captain of the Anbu branch. This gesture deeply moved the Third Hokage.

This is the true Will of Fire, Sarutobi thought. Cherishing companions, taking responsibility, and being unafraid of sacrifice.

In the end, Sarutobi couldn't bear to let such a talented individual go to waste. His resolve to cultivate Kazuya's talents grew stronger.