Wait Until You're Truly Ready, Then Come Back

"Third Hokage."

Kakashi looked up, his tone still polite.

"Has the team assignment list been officially finalized?"

Hiruzen Sarutobi nodded lightly.

"It has."

Kakashi asked no further questions.

Since the higher-ups had already made their decision, tonight's visit had not been to seek his opinion.

Hiruzen Sarutobi had simply come in person to inform him of the result.

He had no room to object.

"I understand."

Kakashi nodded in acceptance.

"I'll report to Team 7 on time."

Hiruzen Sarutobi could see his disdain for Obito.

Such a reaction was hardly unexpected.

Kakashi valued rules and efficiency, while Obito often acted on emotion.

Whether the two could get along smoothly was precisely an issue Team 7 needed to resolve.

"Team assignments are not based solely on individual strength."

Hiruzen Sarutobi picked up his teacup but did not drink.

"Kakashi, your individual abilities far surpass those of your peers."

"Obito and Rin can make up for your shortcomings in team cooperation."

"Minato has a steady temperament and can also mediate the conflicts between you."

Kakashi neither agreed nor objected.

"I will obey the arrangement."

Seeing that he did not wish to say more, Hiruzen Sarutobi did not linger.

He set down his teacup, rose, and left the Hatake Residence.

The courtyard gate closed once more.

Kakashi stood alone in the living room and picked up the assignment document again.

The higher-ups had deliberately transferred him away from Fang Xu. It was definitely not just because the original team had disbanded.

Ordinary negotiations would be useless if he wanted to change the list.

Only if Fang Xu personally stepped in might Hiruzen Sarutobi reconsider.

However, Fang Xu might not oppose this assignment.

Kakashi's gaze fell on the other two names.

Fang Xu was also close with Obito and Rin.

Minato Namikaze was indeed