Kakashi's Astonishing Guess

Although he had long ago received private instructions from the Third Hokage, that if he ever saw Brother Lin Cheng again, he must invite him back to Konoha, and make him a ninja for the village, he had known that Brother Lin Cheng's life these past few years must have been extraordinary.

Yet, he never imagined that the lives the two had led these past few years would be this spectacular!

At the same time, through their brief accounts of certain events, even though they only touched upon them lightly, Hatake Kakashi still arrived at a conclusion that shocked him!

Lin Cheng's strength was likely infinitely close to the Kage level, or perhaps had already reached it!

Thinking of this, and then considering Lin Cheng's age, Hatake Kakashi felt as though his own years had been wasted on a dog.

While feeling somewhat depressed, Hatake Kakashi did not forget to recruit Brother Lin Cheng on behalf of the Third Hokage.

"Speaking of seeking help from Lady Tsunade, I think you two should consider joining Konoha first!"

"Oh? Why? My brother and I are very free right now! Why should we run to Konoha to be constrained?"

A flash of amusement crossed his eyes as Lin Cheng looked at Hatake Kakashi with a smile.

"Besides, I remember telling you that the Third Hokage is far too benevolent, don't I?"

"Regarding that, after I returned to Konoha back then, I did mention it to the Third Hokage!

The Third later made a promise that he would absolutely not let the situation you described happen!

Furthermore, from the perspective of a friend, you coming back to Konoha with me is indeed the best choice!"

Watching Brother Lin Cheng listen to him quietly, Hatake Kakashi let out a breath, and continued: "Kimimaro's illness will need to be treated sooner or later!

Most importantly, this matter clearly cannot be delayed for too long!

And Konoha possesses the most complete and comprehensive medical ninjutsu knowledge!

The only one with the absolute certainty to cure Kimimaro is Lady Tsunade!

Joining Konoha will bring you one step closer to achieving this goal!

As a friend, I believe you are making the right choice by coming to Konoha!"

"...To be honest! Hatake Kakashi! You are not a qualified lobbyist!

However, I think my brother and I can go back to Konoha with you to consider it!

There are some things that I feel would be better to negotiate clearly with that Third Hokage in person!"

After bowing his head in thought for a moment, Lin Cheng looked up and said in a deep voice.

"Very well! I believe this is the right choice!"

"You, Hatake Kakashi! No one would ever say their own home is bad!

But don't forget, where there is light, there is shadow!"

"...You are right! I cannot refute that statement! So, how about it? Shall we rest for the night, or set off now?"

Understanding the meaning behind Lin Cheng's words, Hatake Kakashi knew this topic could not be discussed further.

Therefore, he immediately changed the subject.

"You decide! Little Kimimaro and I are fine with anything!"

Seeing Hatake Kakashi act this way, Lin Cheng did not spoil the mood by harping on the previous question.

Instead, he shrugged his shoulders and let Hatake Kakashi take the lead.

"Since that is the case, let us set off!

I believe the Third Hokage will be very much looking forward to your arrival!"

"Heh! Let us hope so!"

Amidst the somewhat stifling conversation, the two brothers followed Hatake Kakashi on their journey back to Konoha.

However, this return trip was not destined to be peaceful!

Because the trio eventually encountered an unexpected enemy halfway through!

The Explosion Corps of Iwagakure!

The opposing side was clearly prepared, and their target was none other than Hatake Kakashi of Konoha!

The only thing that likely caught Iwagakure off guard was the presence of the two brothers, Lin Cheng and Kimimaro, who were not in their calculations.