Hokage's Office
The morning sunlight streamed through the latticed windows, casting neat patches of light across the desk piled high with scrolls.
The delicate scent of sandalwood mingled with the tobacco smoke from Third's pipe.
Hiruzen Sarutobi sat in the seat of honor, his expression solemn.
The atmosphere in the office was heavy. The four members of Team Kakashi, Inoichi, and Ibiki stood on either side, awaiting instructions.
Kakashi stood in a seemingly relaxed posture, but his visible eye keenly studied Third's expression.
Inoichi and Ibiki stood like two silent boulders, their eyes lowered.
Naruto and his two teammates waited for Third to speak.
Third slowly exhaled a smoke ring, and the white haze curled through the shafts of light.
"Lockfront Village has sent a confidential message."
His voice was steady, yet everyone instantly tensed.
"They're willing to exchange their captive, the Konoha jonin Li Yi, for Hanare."
"Lord Third!"
Kakashi suddenly grew agitated.
Hiruzen Sarutobi paused with his pipe in hand, his world-weary eyes regarding Kakashi intently. "What is it, Kakashi?"
Kakashi hesitated, forcibly suppressing his surging emotions as his Adam's apple bobbed.
He lowered his eyes again, his voice returning to its usual calm. "...Nothing."
He quickly changed the subject, looking toward Team 7 beside him before glancing at Inoichi and Ibiki.
"So you summoned Naruto and the other two as well because you intend to have me lead this hostage exchange mission, Lord Third?"
"Yes."
Third slowly nodded, confirming Kakashi's guess.
"Inoichi and Ibiki still have other matters to handle. Besides, you're the only one of the three with a team, so you're naturally the best choice."
The forest path wound ahead as Team 7 and Hanare made their way toward the border.
Kakashi walked at the front. He seemed laid-back, but the eye beneath his