"When I was tested, I only possessed the Wind attribute. I don't have multiple chakra natures like Jiraiya-sensei or the Sandaime, so I was never destined to match them in the realm of diverse ninjutsu."
Hatani had his excuse ready for Sakumo's query.
(Author's Note: Regarding chakra natures, there are two schools of thought: one where natures are innate and cannot be learned, and another where they can be acquired through training. I'm going with the former for this story—even in the latter case, it would be extremely difficult for someone with a single innate affinity to master a second.)
"So, after much thought, I realized that focusing on the sharpness and speed of Wind-style chakra through kenjutsu would be the most effective way to increase my strength," Hatani continued.
Sakumo nodded, finding the logic sound. After all, he had a perfect example in his own unit: Hayama Shirakumo, who had successfully blended Wind Style with swordsmanship.
"To be honest, I'm deeply grateful to the Sandaime for sending you to support Lady Tsunade. It gave me the chance to meet the 'White Fang,' the undisputed number one swordsman in Konoha," Hatani said with a tone of sincere admiration.
Since the moment he had approached Sakumo to strike up a conversation, this was likely the first word of truth to leave his mouth.
In the world of literature, there is no "first," but in the world of martial arts, there is no "second." Despite his usual lack of vanity, Sakumo didn't bother with false modesty regarding Hatani's claim. It was, after all, a publicly acknowledged fact.
However, Sakumo could sense the underlying intent behind the boy's flattery. He let out a soft chuckle and teased, "Oh? It sounds like you have more on your mind than just a simple introduction."
"Heh." Hatani rubbed the back of his head, wearing a sheepish, "caught-in-the-act" grin.
"However," Sakumo's tone shifted, becoming more serious. "If you truly want to learn the blade, my style isn't the best fit for you. You'd be better off seeking guidance from Hayama. He also possesses a singular Wind affinity and has developed a style specifically around it. He's the ideal model for your growth."
Sakumo wasn't trying to brush Hatani off; his advice was the result of genuine consideration. If Hatani didn't have the System, this would be the most practical path forward.
But while Hatani might eventually consult Hayama to broaden his horizons, he wasn't about to give up on the man standing in front of him. Still, Sakumo's reasoning was persuasive. If Hatani tried to push the issue or throw a tantrum now, he'd only annoy Sakumo and risk offending Hayama.
He was far too clever for that.
"I've heard that your eldest son is nearing the age to begin his early training?" Hatani pivoted, shifting the conversation to a casual chat about Kakashi.
The future "Mr. Worldwide," Kakashi Hatake, was barely two years old. However, given the legendary precociousness of the Hatake bloodline, Hatani wasn't exaggerating. In a year—or even a few months—Kakashi would likely be starting his ninja enlightenment.
"Heh, I'd prefer if Kakashi didn't lose his childhood so early," Sakumo replied. Mentioning his son softened his features instantly; the cold edge of the White Fang was replaced by the warmth of a doting father. He shook his head gently. "Being a strong ninja is all well and good, but I don't want him to miss out on the joy of a carefree childhood—or the chance to forge pure friendships during his innocent years."
Knowing Kakashi's future "best friends" (one in the light and one in the dark), Hatani had to admit Sakumo was a good father. But to reach his own goal, he couldn't just agree with the man.
Knowing exactly how "broken" Kakashi's talent was, Hatani offered a subtle counterpoint.
"I suspect that as your son, Kakashi might grow up admiring you so much that he'll beg to become a ninja as soon as possible. I have no doubt he'll grow up to be every bit as exceptional as you are."
"Haha, well said. I'll take that as a blessing, then." Sakumo wasn't offended. To any parent, praise for their child is sweeter than any compliment directed at themselves.
"A lion cub doesn't fall far from the pride. With your mastery of the blade, Kakashi is destined to be a master swordsman himself," Hatani added, striking while the iron was hot.
"As they say, a hero deserves a legendary blade. And what master swordsman is complete without a worthy weapon? If you don't find it too humble, I'd like to offer this sword as a gift for young Kakashi."
With that, Hatani presented the Blade of Alacrity with both hands. It was the moment the "map was fully unrolled," revealing the hidden dagger—his true objective.
"This... this is a bit too valuable for a mere gift, isn't it?"
As the Leaf's top swordsman, Sakumo had recognized the blade's quality the moment he laid eyes on it. Seeing Hatani offer it so freely, he felt a flicker of conflict.
But just as a gourmet can't resist a five-star meal, Sakumo couldn't resist the draw of a masterwork weapon. His hand reached out, the impulse winning over his hesitation.
"What a magnificent blade!" he breathed. He drew it slightly, watching the verdant light shimmer along the steel.
In his estimation, while this blade couldn't channel Lightning Style chakra as efficiently as his White Fang short sword, it surpassed his current weapon in almost every other physical metric.
But the more he admired the gift, the more wary he became. A gift this valuable always came with an unspoken price. He looked at Hatani and guessed exactly what the boy wanted.
If Hatani were a mere civilian Genin without a teacher, Sakumo wouldn't have hesitated to take him under his wing. His style wasn't a guarded clan secret; he didn't have the same restrictions as the "noble" clans like the Ino-Shika-Cho or the Aburame.
But Hatani was Jiraiya's student and a favorite of the Hokage. "Stealing" him would be a political headache. This was the hidden reason he had recommended Hayama Shirakumo. The optics of a peer giving advice versus the White Fang taking a student were very different.
"Lord Sakumo, please don't worry," Hatani said, sensing the man's hesitation. He had no intention of abandoning the backing of Jiraiya and the Sandaime either. "I'm giving this to Kakashi because I truly believe he will inherit your legacy. Think of it as a gift from a senior to a junior, carrying my hopes for his future."
He met Sakumo's eyes. "My only request is that when you eventually begin teaching Kakashi his sword forms, you allow me to stand by and observe."
_______
+90 chapters on: patreon.com/Shinobi_Scrolls