Concerned
Minato contemplatively turned a scroll in his hand. Just out of the Hokage's tower, he headed to the training ground to meet Kakashi. The Hokage had summoned him to assign a mission – not an extraordinary one, just a courier mission. Nevertheless, this mission was classified as B-rank. Due to the increasing tensions between villages and the fact that the mission would take them outside the village, there was always the risk of unforeseen events. Normally, this wouldn't be an issue for Minato; he was accustomed to such missions and had successfully completed many. But this time was different. Minato was supposed to take Kakashi with him.
The Hokage was extremely pleased with Kakashi's performance. Minato had to provide him with weekly progress reports on Kakashi. Clearly, the Hokage was convinced of Kakashi's abilities and intended to further promote him. Minato was unsure. While he recognized Kakashi's talent and the necessity of fostering it, he felt uneasy about the idea of taking Kakashi outside the village. A bad feeling, almost like an evil premonition, gnawed at him. Minato couldn't explain where this feeling came from, as there was no logical reason for it. Therefore, he tried to suppress this discomfort since leaving the Hokage's tower.
After six weeks of intensive training, Minato was excited about Kakashi's progress. The boy learned incredibly fast, was disciplined, and willing to push his limits. Often, Minato had to restrain Kakashi to prevent him from going too far. Two weeks ago, Kakashi had pushed himself so hard that he could barely stand. Minato had carried him home, and they had to take a day off. Despite the impressive talent Kakashi displayed, Minato couldn't overlook that he was still a child.
After Kakashi's meeting with Kushina, Minato had hoped Kakashi would be more open. After all, he had laughed and shown interest during the meeting. However, Minato was quickly brought back to reality. The next day, the little boy behaved just as usual – reserved and far too serious for his age. Minato felt like he couldn't connect with him properly, and it seemed like they were at a standstill. Even though they functioned as a team, as sensei and student, Minato was frustrated that he couldn't really reach Kakashi and do more for him.
But now he had to focus on the mission. So far, they had only completed several D-rank missions, much to Kakashi's annoyance. He often complained that the missions were beneath his level. Minato didn't admit it to Kakashi, as he was actually relieved that they didn't have to do more challenging missions. But Kakashi wasn't entirely wrong; he was ready for more demanding tasks. Probably, Kakashi would be thrilled and bursting with pride at the news of the upcoming mission. Minato sighed as he walked the path to the training ground. He would prefer to wait a bit before taking Kakashi outside the village.
Hastily, he stowed the scroll in his bag and headed to the training ground. A friendly smile adorned his face; he didn't want Kakashi to notice that Minato was worried. Kakashi was already waiting, leaning against a tree. As he noticed Minato, he immediately straightened up. "Good morning, Minato-Sensei."
Minato came to a stop in front of Kakashi, looking down at him. "Good morning, Kakashi. I'm sorry for being a bit late. I had something to take care of."
Kakashi nodded and replied, "It's okay; I've already done my warm-up exercises."
Minato smiled satisfactorily. To be honest, he hadn't expected anything else from Kakashi. After all, he was almost an hour late, and Kakashi wouldn't just sit idly. "Very well, then we can get started. But before we begin, I need to discuss something with you. Today, we'll do things differently than usual."
Curiously, Kakashi blinked up at Minato, looking at him questioningly. To avoid keeping Kakashi in suspense any longer, Minato pulled the mission scroll from his bag and held it up. Suspiciously, Kakashi raised an eyebrow, crossed his arms, and looked at Minato indignantly. "Another D-rank mission? What's different about it this time?"
Minato chuckled slightly and handed Kakashi the scroll. Still doubtful, Kakashi accepted it and unrolled it. He read through it attentively, his eyes widening as he looked up at Minato. "A B-rank!? We're going outside the village?!"
Minato nodded and squatted down in front of Kakashi. "That's right; we'll set out early tomorrow. It's just a courier mission, but we still need to stay alert." Kakashi nodded, a broad grin on his face as he looked back at the scroll. Minato could practically feel the excitement in Kakashi's reaction. However, despite his excitement, Minato's concerns remained; he wasn't comfortable taking Kakashi with him.
Minato stood up, interrupting his contemplation, and turned to Kakashi. "Look at me, please, and listen carefully." Kakashi raised his gaze and nodded determinedly. Minato continued, "I want you to stay close to me at all times when we're on the move tomorrow. Even seemingly simple missions can be dangerous, so it's crucial that you listen to me well." Expectantly, Minato fixed his gaze on Kakashi.
Kakashi looked at Minato determinedly. "Yes, Sensei! I won't let you down."
To lighten the mood, Minato put a smile on his face and placed his hand on Kakashi's shoulder. "I know you won't, Kakashi." After retracting his hand, he continued. "Now, about our plan for today. We'll train as usual until noon, and then take the rest of the day off. I want you to prepare well for the mission. Pack your bag leisurely and rest. It's important that you get enough sleep to be in good shape."
Kakashi smiled up at Minato; anticipation gleamed in his eyes. "You can count on me, Minato-Sensei!"
With a smile, Minato nodded and then clapped his hands together. "Alright, let's get started. First, chakra control exercises, followed by a training spar. Finally, we'll throw kunais to sharpen your accuracy." Minato waved Kakashi over, started moving, and Kakashi promptly followed.
During the training, the impending mission kept swirling in Minato's mind. The uneasy feeling wouldn't leave him, and despite all efforts, he couldn't shake it off. The thought of declining the mission crossed his mind. However, the Hokage had firmly believed in his decision. Kakashi needed to prove himself in more challenging missions, as his abilities surpassed simple D-rank missions.
As noon approached, they indulged in a shared break at their usual spot beneath a shady tree. Unpacking their bento boxes, they began eating, immersed in a comfortable silence surrounded by their own thoughts. After Kakashi set aside his lunch, he turned to Minato. "Minato-Sensei?" Minato hummed to indicate he was listening, prompting Kakashi to continue. "Do you think we'll complete the mission?"
Surprised, Minato raised an eyebrow and looked over at Kakashi, who had averted his gaze. Minato sensed a hint of embarrassment in Kakashi's expression. Softening his gaze, Minato smiled gently. "Are you worried?" It surprised Minato; normally, Kakashi wouldn't overtly show when something was bothering him. Kakashi would pretend everything was fine in front of him, and Minato would only suspect that something was amiss. He hadn't expected Kakashi to be concerned about the mission. Since they started D-rank missions, Kakashi had told him he was overqualified for such tasks. Therefore, Minato assumed Kakashi would simply be pleased about this mission.
Kakashi shrugged and cast an uncertain glance at Minato. "It's my first mission outside the village and a chance to prove what I'm truly capable of. If I successfully complete this mission, I'll undoubtedly get more challenging tasks in the future."
Minato should have known better; of course, Kakashi was worried about proving himself, not about what might await him. Deciding not to show anything, Minato continued to smile gently at Kakashi. Carefully, he set his lunchbox aside, then turned back to Kakashi, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "Don't worry; everything will be fine. You're not alone, remember that we're a team. We'll successfully complete it and return to the village quickly."
With a still uncertain look, Kakashi turned away again. Minato took a deep breath, and his expression became a bit more serious. "Hey Kakashi, look at me." Hesitant, Kakashi glanced at Minato and nodded to indicate he was listening. So Minato continued, "Stop worrying; everything will be fine. You don't need to put pressure on yourself. It's your first mission, and there will certainly be many more to come. It's important to focus on this mission for now. If you're not attentive, mistakes can happen, and mistakes can have serious consequences. Use today to prepare for tomorrow. And remember, you're not alone; I'm here too."
Kakashi nodded, his face becoming a bit more determined. Minato noticed only a slight hint of uncertainty and, as a final gesture, gave him an encouraging smile before removing his hand and starting to pack his things back into his bag. Kakashi followed suit, and they quickly tidied up.
Together, they left the training ground and headed to the main street. Once there, they stopped. Minato crouched in front of Kakashi and smiled at him. "We'll meet at the village entrance early tomorrow. Try not to worry too much. Everything will be fine. See you tomorrow, Kakashi."
Kakashi returned the smile, even though Minato could only discern it from Kakashi's eyes. Over the past few weeks, Minato had learned to decipher Kakashi's facial expressions despite his mask. It wasn't always easy, but Minato was improving. "See you tomorrow, Sensei!" Kakashi waved casually with one hand, turned around, and left Minato alone.
Minato watched the boy for a moment longer, sighed, and then straightened up. He hoped Kakashi wasn't worrying too much and wasn't putting too much pressure on himself. But he knew Kakashi well – he had high expectations for himself. Minato was aware that Kakashi wasn't just trying to impress the Hokage or him as his sensei; he was striving to impress his father as well.
Turning slowly, Minato started walking through the bustling streets of the village. His thoughts swirled around the upcoming mission, and the worries wouldn't let go. Casually, he put his hands in his pockets, not ready to head home just yet. It was still early, and honestly, Minato didn't want to be alone right now. An urge for conversation drove him forward. With determination, he headed to Kushina's apartment. He knew she was at home and always had an open ear for him.
He swiftly reached her house and climbed the stairs to her apartment. Upon arriving at the top, he knocked, and it didn't take long for Kushina to open the door, greeting him with a smile. "Hey, Minato, what are you doing here so early? Don't you have training with Kakashi?"
Minato sensed the slight confusion in her voice. To greet her, he pulled Kushina into a warm embrace and gave her a kiss. "Hello, Kushina. We finished training early today."
After they parted, Kushina stepped aside, letting Minato into the apartment. He took off his sandals, neatly placing them, along with his bag, by the entrance. Then, he hung his vest on the coat rack. Minato made his way to the living room, with Kushina accompanying him. "Is everything okay? Did something happen? You seem so worried."
Minato slumped onto the couch and leaned back, a bit tensely. Thoughtfully, he said, "I have a mission tomorrow."
Kushina raised an eyebrow, her face showing concern. She slowly sat down beside Minato. "Should I be worried? Is it a dangerous mission?"
Immediately, Minato sat up, turned slightly toward Kushina, and gently took her hand in his. Shaking his head, he said, "no, you don't need to worry. I'm sorry; I didn't mean to scare you. It's just a courier mission, nothing serious."
Kushina withdrew her hand, crossed her arms, leaned back, and turned her gaze away slightly embarrassed. "I wasn't worried; why would you think that?" A faint blush appeared on her cheeks. Minato grinned slightly and leaned back again. Kushina looked back at Minato, her expression turning serious once more. "Then why are you so concerned? That's not like you at all."
Minato tilted his head back, looking at the ceiling. "I'm supposed to take Kakashi with me to gain more mission experience. I feel uneasy about it. He's still a child. What if we encounter enemy shinobi? I'm worried. After all, I'm his sensei, and I'm responsible for him. I just have a bad feeling."
Kushina seemed to ponder for a moment, letting her gaze wander around the room. Then she turned back to Minato, trying to uplift him, and said, "Don't worry too much. Kakashi is talented; he knows how to handle himself, and you're by his side. If anyone can look out for him, it's you."
Minato lifted his head, leaned forward, and rested his arms on his thighs. "I know he's talented. He can fight and defend himself. That's not necessarily my concern. I just think it shouldn't be this way. Kakashi is still a child; he shouldn't have to fight and defend himself. Especially in this scenario, it might mean he has to kill. It's just not right to send a five-year-old out there."
Kushina leaned back, crossing her arms, giving Minato a sharp look. "Don't you think it's a bit late to be thinking about this now? He's been training practically his whole life to be a shinobi. You've been training with him for six weeks on how to fight and kill. And now, you suddenly realize he's still a child?"
Minato stood up and crossed the room at a contemplative pace. Indeed, Kushina was right; Kakashi had been a shinobi for a long time. But today's conversation with the Hokage brought new considerations. "I understand, Kushina, but I thought he'd remain a Genin for a few more years, take on simple missions. Maybe join another Genin team when he's ready for that. I didn't expect them to want to send him into war so early."
Kushina straightened up and fixed Minato with wide eyes. She seemed to have caught on to something. "Minato? What are you not telling me?"
Minato stopped and sat in a chair opposite the couch. He sighed and looked at Kushina. "The Hokage didn't just talk to me about the mission today. He's very pleased with Kakashi's progress and wants to further promote him. His plan is to give Kakashi more missions to gain experience and then have him participate in the next Chunin exams."
Kushina raised an eyebrow and looked at Minato slightly horrified. "Kakashi is five! How can they consider letting him participate in a Chunin exam? Also, I thought as his sensei, you had to nominate him for that."
"Well, what runs normally with Kakashi? The Hokage sees great potential in Kakashi; he doesn't want to waste his talent," Minato explained with a touch of irony as he leaned back.
Kushina snorted, her frustration evident on her face. "I respect the Hokage, and he's done a lot for the village. But he can't be serious about this. Since when does Konoha need child sacrifices?"
Minato sighed and ran his hand through his hair. "It's complicated, Kushina. The Hokage has his reasons, and I can't just go against that. But I'm worried Kakashi will have to grow up too fast. He should have the chance to experience a normal childhood, even though it's already too late for that."
Kushina's face softened as she felt Minato's sadness. She looked thoughtfully out the window. "Did you express your concerns to the Hokage?"
Minato followed Kushina's gaze out the window; a tense atmosphere had settled in the room. "No, I haven't said anything yet. The next Chunin exams are still a bit away. But I don't think the Hokage and his advisers will listen to me. They only see the well-being of all of Konoha, not the individual. I don't have enough respect yet for them to take my concerns seriously."
Kushina looked over at Minato and sadly smiled. "Unfortunately, you're right. The Hokage has to think about the whole village. But you don't. If you don't feel right about it, you should at least try to do something. Trust me, the Hokage knows what he has in you, and he trusts you."
Minato's gaze continued out the window as he pondered Kushina's words. She wasn't entirely wrong; he had to at least try everything. It didn't feel right to burden Kakashi with such responsibility so soon. In Minato's eyes, he was still too young. "Yes, maybe you're right."
In a moment of silence, Kushina broke the atmosphere. "Do you think Kakashi could pass the Chunin exam?"
Minato slowly lifted his gaze to attentively look at Kushina. "That almost makes it even more challenging. I would share the Hokage's assessment. Kakashi is already at Chunin level; he just lacks experience in missions and teamwork. If I ignore his age, I would have nominated him for the exam. I would have taken on different missions by now. But I can't just overlook that he's too young."
Lost in thought, Minato let his gaze wander out the window again. The responsibility for Kakashi weighed heavily on him, and he longed to find a way to help him. A feeling of sadness overwhelmed him, knowing Kakashi would accept this without hesitation. On the contrary, he would be thrilled and do his best to prove himself and make everyone proud. The idea of Kakashi going to war deeply unsettled Minato. The fear of seeing a five- or perhaps six-year-old boy fight and kill on the battlefield to survive horrified him.
Kushina snapped him out of his thoughts and asked, "Have you considered talking to Sakumo about it?"
Minato furrowed his brow slightly, contemplating for a moment. It would be at least an idea. He wasn't exactly sure how Sakumo would feel about Kakashi becoming a Chunin so early. It was conceivable that he wouldn't be thrilled. On the other hand, Sakumo had made him a Genin at such an early age, and while he had his reasons, Minato could understand them. "I could talk to him. But only after the mission; the Chunin exam is still a bit away."
Kushina shrugged and leaned back. "It's worth a try, at least. After all, Sakumo is his father and will probably have a say, even if Kakashi is a Genin and thus considered an adult. The Hokage has great respect for Sakumo, and he surely wouldn't easily overlook him if he spoke against it."
Minato nodded in agreement. She was right; not only the Hokage but also the village elders respected Sakumo. He had built up a good reputation over the years. If he spoke against it, it might make the Hokage reconsider. But these were all just speculations. Minato couldn't say what Sakumo would think about it and how the Hokage would truly react.
Kushina stood up from the couch, walked over to Minato, and reassuringly placed her hand on his shoulder. She smiled at him. "Now, stop worrying too much. Everything will be fine."
Minato looked up at her and returned her smile. Gently, he reached for Kushina's wrist, carefully pulled her onto his lap, and she wrapped her arm around his shoulders. In a loving kiss, they separated, and Minato looked at her with a tender gaze. "Thank you for listening. I love you!"
Kushina's cheeks blushed slightly, and a small smile played on her lips. "I love you too." She rose again and pulled Minato to his feet. "Enough of that. You focus on the mission tomorrow and make sure Kakashi and you come back quickly and safely. What do you think about me cooking for us tonight?"
Minato brushed a strand of hair behind Kushina's ear and agreed. "That sounds like an excellent idea."
Kushina tugged at Minato's hand, leading him to the hallway. "Well then, we need to go to the market for that." Minato smiled and let himself be pulled by Kushina. A little distraction wouldn't hurt; he would address the rest later.