CH - 219 Obito: Huh? What Price?

'Just relentless practice? Then why do you have the look of reluctance?' Kakashi couldn't help but think, observing Obito's demeanor. However, upon seeing Obito's reaction, Kakashi began to piece together the puzzle. It dawned on him that since arriving in the Grass Village, Obito hadn't forsaken his training. In fact, he must have dedicated himself to it with even greater fervor and diligence than before, perhaps even surpassing Kakashi's own efforts. How else could Obito's speed now exceed his own?

Kakashi regarded Obito with a complex mixture of emotions, hesitating for a moment before remarking, "I didn't anticipate you becoming so diligent after coming to the Grass Village."

Obito's response was tinged with a hint of resignation, "I didn't want to either~" He had been compelled to increase his hand speed out of necessity. Slow hand speed meant prolonged completion of assignments, a situation he couldn't afford. Now, his efforts were finally paying off.

Reflecting on the past, Obito recalled a story about a gifted individual from a few years back. This prodigy had swiftly risen to prominence upon enrollment, garnering accolades from the entire academy. The Grass Village leader had even bestowed immediate recognition and rewards. It was rumored that this individual had mastered the art of controlling multiple pens to expedite assignment completion, showcasing remarkable chakra control that caught the attention of the Medical Department, leading to early acceptance. Speaking of Which, In Konoha, such accomplishments would have facilitated early graduation and forced enrollment in war.

Obito sighed regretfully, shaking his head, "But there's just too much homework!"

Kakashi furrowed his brows in confusion at Obito's complaint, but before he could respond, Obito fixed him with a scrutinizing gaze and remarked, "Are you already tired? Seems like you've conceded defeat."

"I haven't conceded yet," Kakashi retorted calmly, rising to his feet. "Idiot!"

At Kakashi's retort, Obito couldn't contain himself, rolling up his sleeves with determination. "You're still as aggravating as ever, you bastard!"

As the two clashed once more, it became increasingly evident that Kakashi, already panting heavily, was no match for Obito. Without the innate advantages of the Uchiha clan's bloodline, the strain of utilizing the Mangekyo Sharingan weighed more heavily on Kakashi than on Obito.

Meanwhile, Obito benefitted from the presence of Hashirama's cells within him. Not only did this mitigate concerns about overusing the Sharingan, but it also granted him with significantly augmented chakra reserves compared to others. Moreover, his time in the Grass Village had not been spent idly.

In addition to the structured ninjutsu curriculum of the academy, Obito's tenure in the Grass Village had broadened his horizons and transformed him into a formidable force. Were it not for his respect for Kakashi, he might have resorted to underhanded tactics typical of the Grass Village to gain the upper hand.

Meanwhile, Kakashi, while valiantly resisting Obito's assaults with his refined ninja techniques, knew that his stamina was waning. He couldn't maintain this level of exertion indefinitely. Continuing down this path would inevitably lead to his collapse from exhaustion.

Frantically analyzing the situation in his mind, Kakashi couldn't help but inwardly acknowledge, 'Obito... has truly undergone tremendous growth.'

Obito's unwavering determination to emerge victorious was palpable. It was particularly evident when he repeatedly claimed, "You have no idea what I've sacrificed to participate in this match. Let me tell you, You have already lost!"

Every time he uttered about his sacrifices for this duel seemed to fuel his ferocity, intensifying his attacks. It became apparent that Obito had paid an incalculable price to engage in this battle against himself. It made sense – a rogue ninja seeking trust from the Grass Village would undoubtedly need to demonstrate their commitment through sacrifice.

However, as a ninja of Konoha, Kakashi harbored his own aspirations for victory. With sheer determination, he pushed his chakra to its limits, utilizing the Mangekyo Sharingan to evade Obito's relentless assaults. Yet, in doing so, he found himself gasping for breath, the strain on his body becoming increasingly unbearable.

The battle intensified once more, with flames and lightning crackling in a frenzied display. Space seems to warp and distort under their ability repeatedly. Spectators watched in awe as the unmatched prowess of these two combatants surpassed all expectations.

Amidst the fervent cheers from the crowd, even the Konoha supporters, though aware of Kakashi's disadvantage, refused to relent in their enthusiastic support, rallying behind their ninja hero with fervor.

"Obito!" "Kakashi!" The resounding roars echoed across the arena as the two locked eyes. At that moment, it was evident to all that the climax of this epic duel was fast approaching.

"Obito! I'm grateful for your assistance. I understand the sacrifices you've made to be here, but..." Kakashi paused, drawing in a deep breath. "I simply cannot afford to lose!"

You know? As Kakashi's declaration hung in the air, Obito was momentarily taken aback. How could Kakashi possibly know? The realization sent a jolt of confusion through him.

But in the blink of an eye, lightning crackled once more in Kakashi's right hand, and the piercing gaze of the Mangekyo Sharingan locked onto Obito. "Raikiri!"

Reacting swiftly, Obito countered, his own hand alight with the familiar technique Kakashi had crafted. He recalled how Kakashi had once struggled to target an opponent due to the technique's speed, but now, under his own watchful gaze, it had evolved into a flawless execution.

Yet, He didn't care because he could do it too. "Raikiri!"

As their Raikiri clashed, Kakashi was momentarily thrown off guard. When had Obito learned the Raikiri? Yet, in the heat of the moment, there was no time for contemplation. With the eyes of the spectators fixed upon them, both surged towards each other at breakneck speed, their respective Raikiri hurtling towards in a spectacular collision.

Just as everyone anticipated a dramatic double knockout, Obito's body contorted unnaturally. In a bewildering twist of events, Obito vanished before Kakashi's disbelieving eyes, leaving the latter utterly confounded.

When did this idiot learn such a trick? Kakashi's mind raced with questions, but before he could react, it was already too late. The Raikiri plunged into the ground with a resounding crash. As Kakashi attempted to step back, a sharp kunai bore down towards his eye with alarming precision. A voice pierced through the chaos, "I've already warned you. Did you truly believe I learned nothing during my time in the Grass Village? Your Mangekyo Sharingan is of no use now, isn't it?"

A momentary pause hung in the air before the truth dawned on Kakashi. Obito however continued, "I'm sorry, Kakashi, but I must win. Otherwise, some complications will arise for me. Your eye is temporarily back with me!"

With those chilling words, Obito swiftly gouged out Kakashi's Mangekyo Sharingan. The countenances of the Konoha ninjas twisted in horror, but their reaction came too late. Kakashi sank to one knee, his left eye now an empty cavity, blood streaming relentlessly.

"Kakashi!" Nara Shikaku and the others called out to Kakashi in concern.

Then, the announcement resounded through the arena, "The duel has concluded! The victor... is Uchiha Obito from the Grass Village!"

With those words, the duel came to an end.

Obito cradled his eye, observing Kakashi, who though bleeding, maintained a composed demeanor. "It seems you've already guessed my intentions," Obito remarked.

"...Perhaps," Kakashi responded with a momentary pause, finding himself unable to rise to his feet once more. Whether it was due to physical exhaustion or a lack of will, he remained motionless amidst the surrounding cheers. Locking eyes with Obito, he posed a question, "Obito... will you and Rin return?"

Instead of offering a direct response, Obito calmly redirected the inquiry, "Do you believe we will return?"

"Indeed. My apologies," Kakashi's expression twisted momentarily with bitterness before settling into a serene smile. "It appears you and Rin are living well in the Grass Village."

Obito returned the smile and extended another offer, "No worries. Do you want to join me? In the Grass Village, my authority is absolute."

With unwavering resolve, Kakashi calmly reiterated, "I will not betray Konoha."

Obito let out a playful pout, gazing at Kakashi in silence for a moment before muttering, "Stubborn idiot."

Turning away abruptly, he added, "Oh, and someone wanted me to relay a message to you... Due to Naruto... she'll take 'good' care of you, you bastard. Just wait until she gets her hands on you!"

As Obito spoke, Kakashi's expression momentarily froze, a flicker of understanding crossing his features before he regained his composure. Surveying the scene unfolding around him, he recognized that the duel had concluded. Watching Obito begin to retreat, Kakashi's mind raced with thoughts. After a moment of hesitation, he called out, "Can you tell me what price you paid?"

"What price?" Obito responded with confusion.

Kakashi paused for a moment, then locked eyes with Obito as the latter turned back. "The price for the Grass Village to permit your participation in this duel."

Obito's response was swift and filled with frustration. "Oh, that! You fool, do you have any idea what I've sacrificed to be here? To partake in this duel, that damn leader saddled me with mountains of homework as a condition. I'm on the brink of graduation, and yet I still have to contend with endless assignments... Hey, Kakashi, are you alright? Are you coughing up blood? What happened suddenly?"

In the midst of their exchange, Kakashi suddenly began coughing up blood, causing the other Konoha ninjas to point accusingly at Obito in alarm. Before they could utter a word, Kakashi collapsed, prompting a panicked rush to his aid.

"The Second Round of the First Ninja World Tournament concludes with another victory for the Grass Village!" Meanwhile, Mubuki as a host, announced the result. "With this, let us congratulate the Grass Village. The tournament comes to a close. We extend our gratitude to all participants. This event is proudly sponsored by Grass Ninja Milk..."