Soji could not help but shake his head and laugh at Kakashi's assumption that his actions might be part of some scheme by Orochimaru.
That only showed how terrible Orochimaru's reputation in Konoha had become.
"Stop guessing. I do have some connection with Orochimaru, but it's not a matter of who serves whom." Soji had no intention of hiding it.
Or rather, Soji was simply telling the truth.
Did he have a relationship with Orochimaru?
He did!
A relationship between a bargain-bin teacher and a bargain-bin disciple!
But beyond that, whether it was Soji or the Night Duke, neither could really be called one of Orochimaru's subordinates left behind in Konoha.
Moreover, Soji was preparing for Minato's return. If possible, it would be better to clear up his relationship with Orochimaru.
After all, Orochimaru's reputation in the village was not exactly good these days.
"Hm? Aren't you one of Orochimaru's people?" Kakashi was surprised by the Night Duke's explanation.
However, he remained skeptical for the time being.
"I never said I was."
Soji controlled the Night Duke to spread his hands, looking utterly innocent.
That left Kakashi unable to determine whether the Night Duke's words were true or false.
"Stop guessing. I'll tell you directly. I came to find you today to see how much you've improved after all these years, Kakashi."
Meeting Kakashi's probing gaze, Soji revealed his hand with a faint smile.
"Hm? To see how much I've improved? Who exactly are you?"
In an instant, Kakashi picked up on many hidden implications in the Night Duke's words.
This person must once have held some position in Konoha and had contact with him. At the very least, they were from the same generation—perhaps even one of his seniors!
That was the conclusion Kakashi reached in a moment.
At