This clearly involved more than simply filling in.
The Third Hokage hoped Itachi could use his intelligence and powers of observation to ensure that Team 7's three prodigies developed properly.
Especially that the growth of Naruto, the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki, and Sasuke would not suffer because of Kakashi's condition.
On the other hand, perhaps he also hoped Itachi could observe Naruto up close, assess certain risks, and even lay some groundwork for the threat Obito and his associates might pose in the future.
Having arrived at the Hokage Office, Uchiha Itachi bowed almost without hesitation.
"Yes, Lord Hokage. I will take temporary responsibility for Team 7's instruction and missions."
His voice betrayed little emotion, but a faint light flickered in his eyes.
Teaching the team his little brother Sasuke belonged to?
That was a development he had never considered.
And that Naruto Uzumaki... the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki, the Fourth Hokage's son. Genya seemed to take quite an interest in him, too.
"Mm."
The Third Hokage nodded.
"Then it's settled. I'll have Iruka inform the three children of the details later. Kakashi, go home and rest for now."
Kakashi nodded numbly again, turned, and left the Hokage Office on unsteady feet.
Sunlight shone on his silver hair, but it could not dispel the heavy shadow hanging over him.
Uchiha Itachi also bowed and took his leave, already considering how to deal with those three genin and their very different personalities.
Teaching his little brother and his noisy teammates?
This mission seemed to demand more adaptability than dealing with the Masked Man.
Inside the office, the Third Hokage lit his pipe and took a deep drag, smoke curling around him.
The news that Obito Uchiha was alive-and an enemy-had to remain confined to the smallest possible circle.
*The bulletin board? Absolutely out of the