"Today is your first day to report in," Kakashi said flatly. "Teams haven't been assigned yet."
He glanced sideways at Tian Yu, his tone casual but his words cutting. "Hokage-sama wanted to directly appoint you as a captain in the Anbu corps. But after reviewing your dossier and performance records, I have to say… in my judgment, your experience and strength are not yet sufficient."
The moment Kakashi's words dropped, Tian Yu's face — hidden under his mask — twitched.
If he hadn't been wearing it, Kakashi would've seen the full display of disdain flashing across his face.
Come on, Kakashi-san…
You got laid up for three months after clashing with Zabuza in the Land of Waves — and that was despite your Sharingan. If I hadn't stepped in to kill Zabuza myself during our recent mission, things would've gone differently.
And now you're questioning my qualifications?
Still, Tian Yu understood where Kakashi's impression might have come from.
During the missions he'd completed with Might Guy, he hadn't even worn a Konoha forehead protector. Technically, he wasn't considered a formal Konoha shinobi at the time.
So, any joint missions would've been officially credited only to Might Guy. The reports filed — mostly dictated by Guy himself — were full of exaggerated praise and bravado that someone like Kakashi, his long-time rival, likely dismissed as nonsense.
No wonder he doesn't take me seriously.
Tian Yu glanced at Kakashi and asked calmly, "Then what are the requirements to qualify as an Anbu unit captain?"
Kakashi folded his arms and began explaining the Anbu structure in his usual aloof tone.
"The Anbu operates in squad formations. Four-man cells, each led by a squad captain. These captains are typically Jōnin-level or above. Ten squads form a larger division. Currently, Anbu has three active divisions — the First, Second, and Third Assassination Units."
"Each division is led by a commander, often an elite Jōnin who has mastered advanced or even forbidden techniques. If all three division commanders were to act together, even someone of the Third Hokage's caliber would be forced to take them seriously."
"And above them," Kakashi continued, "is me — Hatake Kakashi, the Anbu Commander."
He wasn't boasting, just stating facts.
"The Anbu structure is well-optimized. There are 121 active members — every single one an elite shinobi, hand-picked from among the most capable Chūnin and Jōnin."
"While the total number of Chūnin and Jōnin in the village is much larger, the Anbu functions as Konoha's most vital force — not just for combat, but also for internal surveillance, village security, and covert operations."
"No single clan — not even the Uchiha before their fall, or the current Hyūga — can match the Anbu's combined strength."
"It's this strength," he added with emphasis, "that allows Hiruzen-sama to maintain control over the village, especially during unstable times."
Tian Yu listened silently.
Kakashi continued, "Anbu duties range from basic patrols and courier missions to high-level assassinations and intelligence retrieval. Lower-ranked members handle the grunt work. But once you become a squad captain, you gain authority to form your own team and accept external missions."
"Pay improves. Freedom increases. But so does responsibility."
Then Kakashi gave him a sidelong look. "Now, regarding your question…"
He paused, then said, "I'll give you a chance. If you prove your strength, I'll consider promoting you directly to Anbu unit captain."
Tian Yu raised an eyebrow behind his mask. "What's the test? Sparring with you?"
Kakashi snorted faintly. "No need."
Tch. Cocky.
Even if this kid was as talented as Hokage-sama claimed, Kakashi was confident he could shut him down within three moves.
"You'll pick one Anbu squad captain and fight them. Defeat them, and the position is yours."
He handed over a list.
Tian Yu scanned it briefly before settling on one name.
"I choose him — Tenzo."
Kakashi's brow furrowed slightly.
"Tenzo's current position isn't just squad leader. He's the commander of the Second Assassination Unit — an elite Jōnin with Wood Release, trained directly under the Third."
"You're sure?"
Tian Yu nodded. "I'm sure."
Kakashi narrowed his eye, then sighed. "Very well. If you can last five minutes against Tenzo, that'll be enough."
Tian Yu's lips curled slightly under his mask.
Five minutes? That's all?
Should be plenty.