"Master, I, Kakashi, bow before you!"
Xuan Zhe was a little helpless at this display. He reached out and hauled him to his feet.
"All right, all right, get up and talk. I only said I'd take you as my disciple. I haven't formally admitted you yet. You're still in my grand-disciple's generation, so I can't accept that bow."
Kakashi's face lit up, and he could not keep the excitement out of his voice.
"Master, does that mean you've agreed? Wonderful! From now on, I'll call you Master!"
Xuan Zhe shook his head with a smile, his tone carrying a hint of guidance.
"Little fellow, don't be so quick to call me that. I'm taking you on provisionally. Whenever there are good things to be had, you'll naturally get your share. But you mustn't forget your master, either."
He was actually dropping a hint-the matter of accepting a disciple was not settled yet. Kakashi should not take it too seriously, lest he end up disappointed.
Kakashi's eyes went wide at that. He pursed his lips, his face full of defiance.
"Master, I can't agree with that! Taking me as your disciple shows your good judgment, and it's your good fortune, too. How can you just decide not to take me?"
Xuan Zhe was not annoyed. He explained patiently.
"It's not that I won't take you. You still have a long way to go. Right now, you don't meet my requirements for a disciple. Think about it. What matters most to you now? It isn't rushing to find a master, but building a solid foundation. If you haven't even mastered the basics, don't concern yourself with what comes later."
That sounded reasonable. Although Kakashi was still a little unconvinced, he had no choice but to nod in acceptance.
Xuan Zhe waved