"Kakashi was checking on the closest thing he had to a legacy Gai." He gave him a stern look, Hokage through ad through for a moment. The weight of his disappointment was heavy. "He wasn't running back to ANBU, and you're letting your personal affection blind you when you're usually so clearsighted. He's not the boy he once was and you of all people should be able to see that."

He took a beat to gather his composure and calm his displeasure.

"Being your rival won't be there if something happens to him. That's not a legacy, that's a gift. Don't confuse the two."