Hatake Sakumo took the white-covered book from Jiraiya without a change in expression. Then, with practiced ease, he tucked it away.
Just like that, a strange little transaction was complete.
Only the two white-haired men truly understood the contents of that book.
"He's a senior who's stronger than us—especially Sakumo-senpai's swordsmanship. Even a jōnin wouldn't last more than a few moves against him!"
After introducing Hatake Sakumo to the academy students, Jiraiya and his group made their way toward Konoha's main gate.
"Alright, kids," Sakumo said, scratching his head as he looked over the three unique children in front of him, "looks like we'll be spending some time together."
The red-haired girl, Uzumaki Kushina, was the one he'd personally rescued. After losing her home, she'd picked herself back up again. A child with real grit.
Then there was the black-haired, black-eyed boy—classic Uchiha features. His appearance gave off an obedient, quiet vibe… maybe even a bit timid. But given his Uchiha lineage, it was unlikely anyone dared to pick on him.
Unless he was one of those rare cases where his personality was completely at odds with his appearance, he seemed like a well-behaved, straightforward kid. Orochimaru had mentioned he was the most low-maintenance student he'd ever had—quick to learn, perceptive, and surprisingly warm toward others.
Lastly, there was the blond, blue-eyed boy with a cheerful smile that never left his face—Jiraiya's disciple. His presence was infectious, and Sakumo could sense something familiar in him.
That same feeling he got from other speed-type shinobi.
From the boy's posture to his reflexes, everything about him seemed tailored for maximizing speed.
Sakumo's so-called "eye for people" wasn't just a product of experience. It was a special trait that let him sense the defining characteristics of others—a sharpened insight developed through years of observation and combat.
The three kids were all promising, but Sakumo couldn't help feeling just a bit troubled.
Four people, and not one mother among them.
That was the current situation.
Still, it wasn't like he needed to dig into their pasts. His job was to guide them in their training, not reopen old wounds.
"Since the three of you have been entrusted to me, I'll tailor your training based on your individual strengths."
"You're all still young, so taijutsu is non-negotiable. But from there, we'll focus on uncovering your personal talents."
"Once we know your strengths, we'll work on developing them."
"Take little Minato, for example. You're probably suited to speed, right?"
Sakumo turned to Namikaze Minato.
That piercing gaze made Minato feel completely seen through, like nothing could be hidden from this man. A faint tension crept up his spine—Sakumo was the real deal.
"Yes, Sakumo-sensei. I think I have a bit of a knack for speed."
"Just as I thought. I sensed a kindred spirit in you. I'm a speed-type shinobi myself. You might end up gaining the most out of this training."
Sakumo gave Minato a nod of approval.
The way the kid had instinctively tensed up—he clearly had strong perception. Sakumo had only exerted a little pressure, and the boy had immediately sensed it.
That was an excellent trait.
"I'll give it my all, Sakumo-sensei!"
Minato's eyes lit up with determination. If he could learn under someone like this, he knew he'd grow by leaps and bounds.
"Now, as for the little Uchiha… your body's not quite right, is it?"
Sakumo's expression sharpened, brows knitting slightly. Something was definitely off about the boy's physical condition.
As a master of kenjutsu, Sakumo had an exceptional grasp of the human body—so much so that he could even sense the elusive concept of intent. Paired with his unique ability to perceive hidden traits, he noticed right away that something about Uchiha Kaien wasn't normal.
"Your spirit is unusually active, but your body can't keep up. I'm guessing… you often feel tired, don't you?"
Kaien's heart skipped a beat.
Was he being seen through, just like Minato?
Kage-level shinobi really were on another level—especially ones who specialized in something as abstract as will through their blade.
Someone who lingered on the path to the Pure Land for twenty years after death just to wait for his son… that's not something an ordinary Kage could pull off.
Sakumo's greatest strength was his powerful spirit and unwavering will.
Emotions could be faked, but physical shortcomings couldn't be hidden at all times.
[Weakness Camouflage] was meant for combat, after all. Kaien wouldn't waste energy keeping it active outside battle.
But this worked out perfectly—he hadn't figured out how to tell Orochimaru about his bloodline illness. Now, he could use Sakumo as a messenger.
Once the Second Great Ninja War was over, Orochimaru would have time to help him.
"How did you know, Sakumo-senpai?" Kaien asked, feigning curiosity.
"Those two have more vitality than you, but your spiritual energy is far higher. I'm guessing the Sharingan is putting strain on your body."
Sakumo's words hit their mark. His gaze was sharp and direct, locking onto Kaien with surgical precision.
Kaien offered a wry smile in response and slowly activated his single tomoe Sharingan.
A somber mood spread with the faint crimson glow of the eye—its aura unsettling yet subdued.
"They awakened the moment I learned my parents were dead," he said quietly.
The weight of that memory settled into his tone. The Sharingan, eerie as it was, showed no aggression—only grief. A few silent tears slipped down his face.
"If I had the choice, I'd rather not have these eyes."
"They're cursed. Everyone who awakens them ends up suffering."
His words rang with quiet conviction. The others could feel the sorrow radiating off him, thick and real.
[Expressive Performance] shaped Kaien's expression with near-perfect authenticity, as if he were genuinely mourning the loss of his parents.
Minato, who had never seen Kaien show this kind of vulnerability, instinctively wanted to comfort him—but he had no idea what to say.
Is it more painful to never have something… or to lose it after holding it in your hands?
Uzumaki Kushina was stunned. She hadn't expected her new friend's story to be so tragic. But she understood—better than anyone—what it was like to lose everything.
Even Sakumo started to feel like he'd gone too far.
He probably should've phrased things more gently.
With a group like this—four kids with not a single mother between them—one careless word could hit a landmine.
----------------
Pls Drop some Power Stones
+100 chapters and support me on Patreon(.)com/Jixo