222 CH - 217 Kakashi vs Obito

Sasori, the genius puppeteer of the Sand Village, was a ninja who pursued eternal art. Despite a slight setback that led to his current job in a factory, he never abandoned his dream of leaving this mundane place behind. Today seemed like the perfect opportunity.

Quietly observing the enthusiastic colleague discussing the day's events, Sasori had already decided to leave when the conflict between the Konoha and Grass Villages began. Remaining in the factory, tightening screws day after day, offered no future for him. He held onto his aspirations and the pursuit of eternal art; the factory life was not his destiny.

The Ninja World Tournament presented the ideal moment to make his exit. Deliberately declining the factory's organized event to watch the match, Sasori meticulously prepared for his departure during the evening shift. His plan was simple: wait until everyone was distracted by the tournament's climax, then slip away unnoticed.

Yet, now they were telling him he had to work overtime? This was unacceptable. Sasori's yearning for eternal art burned stronger than ever. He couldn't allow the factory to hinder his pursuit any longer.

Sasori observed the colleague in front of him as he prattled on about the day's match. At that moment, Sasori grasped the true nature of the so-called Fire Dragon Armor and Blaze of Hope. They were… Toys, Merely toys that lit up. Nothing more.

This whole situation seemed laughable if you think about it. He was Renowned as the Puppet Genius of the Sand Village since his youth, Sasori of the Red Sand found himself in absurd circumstances. First, He was tasked with manufacturing heaters, air conditioners, and assorted items in the factory, now he was being compelled to craft toys? Moreover, The notion of working overtime to produce them was preposterous.

"Unfortunately, you missed out. It was quite a spectacle; the Fire Dragon Shinobi was truly impressive. I wonder if we'll have the chance to purchase a set at an internal price later?" the colleague exclaimed eagerly, eyeing Sasori's stoic demeanor.

Yet, Sasori's silent reaction didn't faze his colleague. It was typical of Sasori, always maintaining his composure. Such was the demeanor of a genius, perhaps. Undeterred, the colleague proposed, "Let's check the time. It's almost dinner time. We can grab a bite first and then tackle the overtime work with renewed energy."

However, Sasori abruptly waved his hand. "No, no overtime."

"No overtime?" The colleague's confusion was evident. "Are you sure? It's triple pay today, a rare opportunity."

Sasori's raised eyebrow betrayed his surprise. Triple pay for overtime? He hadn't anticipated such a generous offer. Perhaps there was more to this overtime than he initially thought.

Unaware of Sasori's internal deliberation, his colleague continued, "And if you perform well, there's even a bonus. A substantial one, too."

Although, Sasori momentarily paused at the mention of a bonus, but he remained indifferent to his colleague's enticements.

Nevertheless, his colleague persisted, unaware of Sasori's thoughts. "Plus, there are ninjas waiting outside the factory to transport the goods. They're counting on us to produce the next batch. Hey, Sasori, where are you going? Wait up! Are you heading to the dormitory? Feeling unwell? Need me to request leave for you?"

With a sudden change in expression, Sasori replied in a hoarse voice, "...Dinner first, Then overtime!"

Before his colleague could fully process Sasori's abrupt decision, Sasori had already turned and strode towards the canteen. Left in bewilderment, his colleague muttered to himself, "But didn't he say he wasn't interested?"

As he spoke, he shook his head and made his way to the canteen. However, little did he know, at that moment, Sasori, who had departed from the factory, was sighing as he gazed sadly at the darkening night outside.

It wasn't for the triple pay. As a genius ninja, he wouldn't linger in a factory for a mere increase in wages. No, his concern lay elsewhere. He was worried about being discovered. With Grass Ninjas scattered about the vicinity, even if they were there for deliveries, Sasori couldn't be certain he wouldn't be discovered attempting to slip away.

Not long ago, he had caught wind that the leaders of the Grass and Rain Villages were on the lookout for a ninja named Sasori. Though, so far, their search had been fruitless.

Sasori sighed once more, resignedly shaking his head as he continued his path toward the canteen. It seemed his escape attempt… had once again failed.

…

Time passed slowly, and soon, the highly anticipated second round of duels arrived. It was another bustling day. As the duel arena opened early in the morning, spectators streamed into the venue one after another.

Meanwhile, on the Konoha side, Nara Shikaku led the Konoha ninjas to their designated spot from the previous day, casting a serious gaze at Kakashi. "Today, Kakashi, we entrust you with our hopes."

"Understood," Kakashi replied, fully aware of the weight of the situation. Losing today wasn't an option; it meant defeat for Konoha. This wasn't just a match; it was a crucial battle. He touched his covered eye and reassured, "I'll give it my all."

Konoha had fully entrusted him with the Mangekyou Sharingan, a precautionary measure in case of unexpected events. It allowed him to compensate for any shortcomings promptly. After learning about Obito's abilities, Konoha speculated that the other eye's ability might also be related to space-time jutsu. Kakashi's subsequent training confirmed this speculation, and now he was able to use the Mangekyou Sharingan.

"Don't be nervous. With the Mangekyou and your space-time ninjutsu, you won't lose," Nara Shikaku reassured Kakashi, patting his shoulder. "And we'll support you with our abilities too."

However, it was unfortunate that due to insufficient funds, they had to forgo purchasing fake fans. Today, they can only rely on their best efforts. Moroever, after yesterday's experience, Kakashi should have mentally prepared himself in advance.

At that moment, Ebisu, the Konoha ninja wearing sunglasses, stood up and placed a hand on Kakashi's shoulder. "Please rest assured. We prepared something special last night," he said mysteriously. "Today, we'll make sure everyone hears our support for you!"

Kakashi's mouth twitched at Ebisu's expression. "...It's not necessary," he replied.

But Ebisu insisted with a smile, thinking Kakashi was being modest. "Of course, it is. Don't be shy."

"...Who's shy?" Kakashi retorted, rolling his eyes. He was about to say more when Nara Shikaku interrupted.

"The commercial break is over, Kakashi. It's your turn to enter," Nara Shikaku reminded him, looking at Kakashi with a mix of emotions. "Just do your best."

"I'll do my best," Kakashi replied helplessly. Turning around, he went to prepare for the upcoming battle. He knew he couldn't afford to lose. As for Ebisu's support, with the limited number of people, there shouldn't be any accidents.

After seeing Kakashi off, Nara Shikaku also breathed a sigh of relief. He then turned his head to glance at the announcer's podium and then looked back at Ebisu. "What have you prepared?"

"Hehe," Ebisu smiled mysteriously and said, "You'll find out soon. This is something I've spent a lot of money to prepare."

The words fell, and at that moment, both sides started to enter the venue. Perhaps due to Nara Shikaku's investment yesterday, Mubuki's introduction of Kakashi was surprisingly straightforward and serious.

"He's the Hero of Konoha, graduating at the age of five, becoming a chuunin at six, and achieving the rank of Jonin at twelve. He turned the tide of the war between Iwagakure Ninja Village and Konoha, earning him the title of hero."

A series of truthful and impressive introductions flowed from Mubuki's mouth. It seemed that even after accepting the money, the Grass Village ninja was handling the matter with sincerity.

Kakashi, making his way towards the center of the venue, breathed a sigh of relief. At least the introduction sounded reasonable, not as exaggerated as the Grass Ninja's yesterday, but not as simple as Asuma's. That was sufficient.

However, as he stepped towards the center of the venue, a voice echoed throughout the area. "Come on, Kakashi!" "Show them your style and strength!" "Show them the power of the will of Fire!"

Kakashi's footsteps suddenly paused as if he sensed something. He couldn't help but look towards the position of Konoha. Immediately, he saw the huge sound equipment that appeared on the spot he didn't know when, the partner holding a microphone, and the conspicuous large red banner: 'Konoha Genius, Konoha Silver Wolf - Hatake Kakashi must win!'

Kakashi became speechless and stared blankly at his teammates cheering for him on stage. Who came up with this ridiculous idea? Quickly lowering his head, he increased his pace and ran towards the venue. Otherwise, he feared he would turn around and withdraw from the competition directly.

"It seems Kakashi's teammates are quite enthusiastic." The host's voice resumed, devoid of any fluctuations. "Let's give a round of applause to Hatake Kakashi from Konoha!"

"Next, it's the turn of the contestant from the Grass Village." His tone then suddenly lowered slightly. "He hails from another village!" "He was once hailed as a hero too!"

As soon as the host finished speaking, the Konoha contingent seemed to recognize the figure. Nara Shikaku's expression shifted suddenly, and even Kakashi raised his head to look at the entrance from the Grass side.

Sure enough, they spotted a familiar figure happily waving to the surroundings as he walked in. Kakashi's eyes narrowed as he stared intently at the figure, murmuring to himself, "Obito..."

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