The Fire of Youth Burns Ever Brighter!

Just then, Obito, who had been watching from the side, saw this and immediately took offense.

He strode over, his face full of grievance as he anxiously hopped in place.

Pointing at the Short Sword in Kakashi's hand, he raised his voice in protest.

"Ye! You actually gave that smug brat a weapon but not me?"

"Are you even my good brother anymore? This is unfair!"

Ye turned to look at Obito.

Looking at Obito's clear yet foolish big eyes, it was as if the words "Please cheer me up" were written all over his face.

Ye barely held back his laughter as malicious ideas began bubbling up inside him again.

He pulled his hand from his pocket and walked up to Obito.

Ye wiped away his casual expression, his face turning serious in an instant.

He raised a hand and gave Obito a solid pat on the shoulder.

"Obito."

Ye looked straight into Obito's eyes, his voice low like that of a pyramid scheme mentor.

"Kakashi needs a blade because without one, his Battle ability would drop through the floor. But you're different."

Obito froze, even forgetting to protest.

"You don't need any external props to dress yourself up."

Ye's tone carried an unquestionable, brainwashing power.

"Your greatest weapon has never been anything external. It is your natural, authentic self!"

Obito's breathing immediately quickened, his little face flushing red.

"Go. I believe in you."

Ye emphasized his words, his eyes full of encouragement.

"Show Rin the most natural, most unfiltered version of yourself! Defeat him fair and square in your truest way!"

At the exact moment Ye patted Obito on the shoulder and delivered that final poisonous encouragement.

Ye discreetly flicked his wrist.

A [Dog-Bark Voice Changer] no bigger than a fingernail slipped out through his fingers.

The adhesive