Knock, knock, knock.
A slightly lazy but distinctly rhythmic knock sounded at the door.
Naruto and Sasuke looked up at the same time. That familiar way of knocking...
"Teacher Kakashi?" Naruto was surprised. Kakashi rarely came to the Hokage Building at this hour.
"Come in."
The door opened, and Kakashi Hatake walked in. He looked as laid-back as ever, one hand in his pocket, his silver hair a little tousled. He even held the latest issue of Make-Out Paradise.
But Naruto and Sasuke both noticed the change in his eyes. His usual absentminded look was gone, replaced by a rare sharpness and understanding.
"Hey, you're both here." Kakashi glanced at their faces, then settled onto the sofa, crossed his legs, and turned a page. "I was outside just now and happened to overhear a little."
Naruto and Sasuke exchanged a glance. Neither was surprised. With Kakashi's abilities, keeping the conversation from him would have been difficult.
Kakashi closed his book and looked at Naruto. "The situation in Kumogakure sounds tricky. Infiltration, reconnaissance, rebuilding an intelligence network, and dealing with any Nine Nether experts who might be there..."
He paused. His tone remained casual, but his certainty left no room for argument.
"Leave this mission to me."
Naruto froze. "Teacher Kakashi, you..."
"Retirement's relaxing, but it wouldn't hurt to stretch my legs once in a while."
Kakashi shrugged. "Besides, when it comes to infiltration, disguise, intelligence gathering, and knowing how to complete a mission in enemy territory while keeping myself alive..."
"I don't think Konoha has anyone better suited to the job right now, do you?"
He glanced at Sasuke, the faintest hint of a smile at his lips. "What do you think, Sasuke?"
Sasuke was silent for a moment, then slowly nodded.
"He's right. In terms of overall espionage skills,