Faced with his son's questioning, Hatake Sakumo's expression softened with relief. He beckoned Kakashi over, and waited until the boy had calmed down a little before speaking.
"You're still young. You don't understand."
"Uzumaki Kuming was indeed very strong. Back then, he was even known as Konoha's number-one genius."
"But Jonin Minato Namikaze is much better suited to be your teacher."
Hatake Sakumo paused, then continued.
"Minato Namikaze was Jiraiya's student. Over the years, he's completed countless missions, and he's currently Konoha's most outstanding young genius. With all his experience, he'd be a great help to you if he became your teacher."
"Uzumaki Kuming is a super-genius, sure, but most of his talent comes from the advantages of his bloodline."
"Besides, he grew up in the village and spent the last few years training in seclusion. When it comes to experience with missions as a ninja, he's about on par with a Genin."
"Many Genin have far more mission experience than he does. There's not much he could teach you."
Hatake Sakumo carefully laid out his reasoning for Kakashi. By the end, even he couldn't help nodding along, pleased with his own brilliant decision.
"Minato Namikaze is the best choice for your teacher. Didn't you tell me this afternoon that Uzumaki Kuming didn't want to serve as the Third Hokage's guard, and that was why he agreed to be your instructor?"
"Your father swallowed his pride and did all this for you, didn't he?"
Hatake Sakumo explained earnestly, and his words left Kakashi completely silent. While father and son sat in silence, Hatake Hanako opened the door and came in. Seeing Kakashi and Hatake Sakumo but not Uzumaki Kuming, she asked in puzzlement:
"Dear, Kakashi, dinner's ready."
"Where's Uzumaki Kuming? Where did that boy go?"
When Hatake Sakumo saw his