Chapter 57: Kakashi Hatake

As Uchiha Yoru observed Sarutobi Asuma's small group, which seemed to rely on connections, he wore a relaxed expression and smirked.

Tapping his fingers lightly on the table, Uchiha Yoru squinted and chuckled, "Might Guy said that hard work can catch up to genius. I've never questioned that. But there are some things that even with all the effort, you can't surpass."

A flash of red light appeared in his eyes for a moment. Sarutobi Asuma noticed it and responded with a disdainful smile, signaling that they shouldn't discuss these matters during today's class reunion.

However, Kotetsu, Genma, and Ebisu displayed a hint of awkwardness on their faces, filled with frustration and a deep sense of powerlessness. The brief glimpse of the Sharingan revealed that Yoru was an Uchiha, and no matter how hard they worked, they could never be part of such a prestigious clan.

"Guy, everyone is here. Let's start grilling the meat early." The hidden power struggles among the group had escalated from their spirited rivalry during their time at the ninja school to current political divisions. At this moment, Yūhi Kurenai teased Guy with a casual smile.

Although Might Guy was passionate, he wasn't foolish. He had a straightforward nature, but as a ninja, he couldn't lack observation skills. Naturally, he understood Yūhi Kurenai's meaning and instantly showed a cheerful smile.

"Kakashi and I arrived late today, so we'll treat everyone."

I have to admit, sometimes we really need someone like Might Guy who can lighten the mood. Amidst the cheerful laughter, it seemed like everyone had put aside their differences. As the grilled meat arrived, the gathering became a rare occasion for relaxed conversations and laughter.

While observing the group, Uchiha Yoru appeared relaxed, smiling and chatting with everyone. However, she discreetly glanced at Kakashi, secretly wondering if this gathering was really about him.

Kakashi seemed lifeless, and perhaps this gathering was indeed about him, especially with Might Guy's hearty laughter. The worry in Yoru's eyes never left Kakashi.

"Kakashi, Yoru is the second person among us to become a Jōnin after you, and he has even awakened the Sharingan. I wonder who between you two is more powerful?"

Well, Might Guy might not be a fool, but with his straightforward nature and sometimes clumsy way of speaking, it left everyone speechless. Yūhi Kurenai, in particular, rubbed her temples in frustration. Who talks like that? You really managed to surprise us.

On the other hand, Mitarashi Anko, with a proud look, gazed at Might Guy and said, "Yoru was carefully taught by Orochimaru-sensei. Her abilities are definitely not inferior to Kakashi's."

Seemingly afraid that Yoru's considerable power as a Jōnin would bring shame to her own teacher, Mitarashi Anko tried to bring up Orochimaru.

Clearly, that name was useful, but Sarutobi Asuma wasn't intimidated by it. Your teacher might be Orochimaru, but my father is still the mighty Third Hokage.

"Hehe, I heard that Yoru awakened the Sharingan, and it's even the Two Tomoe Sharingan. Congratulations."

With a congratulatory smile, Sarutobi Asuma's eyes held a hint of provocation. Naturally, Yoru understood the underlying meaning in his words. After all, there was also a Three Tomoe Sharingan present here.

But Yoru, seemingly unconcerned, waved her hand with a dismissive smile. "Asuma, you're too kind. After all, I live up to the Uchiha name, just like you, inheriting the Third Hokage's fondness for smoking."

Upon hearing Yoru's teasing about Asuma inheriting his father's fondness for smoking, Mitarashi Anko couldn't help but burst into laughter, finding it amusing. She jovially said, "I never noticed that before, Asuma. When did you learn to smoke?"

Among the group, besides Might Guy, Mitarashi Anko was the most carefree. After all, she became Orochimaru's disciple immediately after graduating.

With such a powerful backing, all she needed to do was improve her skills, and she wouldn't have to go through much trouble.

Class reunions, no matter the world, tend to lose their charm as thoughts mature.

Each person had their own small groups, and even in a gathering of just nine classmates, it showcased the political divisions within the village.

"Hey, Kakashi, let's have a competition to see who can eat more! This time, it's all about quantity!" Might Guy's passionate and carefree declaration aimed to ignite Kakashi's enthusiasm. However, Kakashi, faced with his energetic best friend, calmly stared at the food with lifeless eyes.

"Okay."

With a calm word, Kakashi seemed to have lost all his vitality. His apparent agreement felt more like a lifeless response, as if he didn't want to be disturbed. Might Guy, filled with fighting spirit and enthusiasm, quickly devoured the food, while Kakashi removed a corner of his mask, lowered his head, and chewed slowly.

Because his head was lowered, everyone could only see half of Kakashi's face. But at this moment, it didn't matter what Kakashi looked like; what mattered was the extremely dangerous situation Kakashi was in.

Ninjas were originally vessels of war, trained as weapons and tools. This lifeless demeanor not only showed indifference towards others' lives but also towards their own lives.

"Just wondering, Kakashi, are you still proficient with your Sharingan?"

Just then, Uchiha Yoru casually smiled and remarked, and in the blink of an eye, a fleeting red light flashed in his eyes. At that moment of activating the Sharingan, he fulfilled a wish and saw Kakashi's true face.

Upon hearing these words, everyone was surprised, and some frowned. Sarutobi Asuma, who had no qualms with Yoru, snorted in annoyance and cast an arrogant gaze at Uchiha Yoru, mockingly saying, "Kakashi became a Jōnin at the age of twelve based on his merits and even created the A-rank technique Chidori. Unlike some people who only rely on others' brilliance."

It was evident that Sarutobi Asuma was provoking and targeting Uchiha Yoru, as he seemed to dislike him.

When Kakashi heard these words, he subtly attempted to cover his eyes but then stiffened and withdrew his hand, calmly responding, "Oh, the Sharingan is quite useful."

The prodigy who was once proud and confident had now become this lifeless figure, causing everyone to shake their heads. However, Uchiha Yoru smiled and shook his head, saying, "Kakashi, the Sharingan isn't something that can be easily controlled."

What he said was the truth. However, Might Guy misunderstood and thought that Yoru was targeting Kakashi's Sharingan, after all, it was a power possessed by the Uchiha clan.

Instantly, Might Guy laughed heartily and said, "Yoru, Kakashi inherited Tobi's will, and he won't let the Sharingan down."

Seeing Might Guy's misunderstanding, Uchiha Yoru chuckled, "Guy, perhaps you misunderstood. Since the Uchiha clan has acknowledged Kakashi, they won't go back on their decision. I was just giving a friendly reminder as a classmate."