To Destroy a Man, Break His Spirit

The commotion gradually died down. Obito was about to roll up his sleeves and spar with Asuma when Tsukimi raised a hand to stop him.

"Enough fooling around. We have something important to do."

Kakashi's heart tightened, confusion written across his face. "Why are we going to my house? Father has shut himself away. He doesn't want to see anyone."

"That's exactly why we need to go." Tsukimi tightened the Ninja Tool Pouch at his waist and headed for the gate. "Someone is watching your father from the shadows. If we don't take precautions now, it'll be too late once the storm hits."

If you want to save your dad, get moving!

Seeing how certain Tsukimi was, the others stopped joking around. Their expressions turned grave. Kakashi hesitated no longer and led the way toward his home.

Even Obito sensed that something was wrong. Carefree as he was, he no longer dared to joke around and silently followed at the back of the group.

The Hatake Clan's residence stood in a quiet corner. When they arrived, they found the courtyard unnervingly still. Not a sound could be heard. It lacked all the warmth of an ordinary home, and a heavy, oppressive air hung over it.

Kakashi opened the door and entered the courtyard first, with the others close behind. Beneath the veranda sat a solitary figure.

Hatake Sakumo wore a plain, dark kimono. The White Fang who had once struck fear across the Shinobi World had lost all his edge. His once-straight back was slightly hunched, and weariness and guilt clung to him. Holding a cup of tea, he stared blankly at the ground.

At the sound of footsteps, he slowly raised his head. Surprise flickered in his eyes when he saw who had come.

"Kakashi, did you bring your