Naruto: Saving the Universe by Stealing Attributes

"Wh-why…?"

"I actually… lost, just like that…"

Kakashi looked at Mirai, bitterness evident on his face. He'd known he wasn't a match for Mirai, but he never expected to be defeated so easily. Their battle just now—Mirai had only used a few basic jutsu. No Eight Gates, no Sharingan, not even a hint of those powerful abilities, yet he'd completely overwhelmed Kakashi.

They had once been equals, back in the academy's graduation exam. Then, Mirai's Sharingan had given him the edge, able to counter Kakashi's Chidori with a single hand. And now... Mirai hadn't even revealed his full strength and had already defeated him without breaking a sweat. The gap between them was growing wider, and for someone as prideful as Kakashi, it was a hard blow to accept.

"Kakashi," Mirai advised, "sometimes it's best not to chase after flashy moves. The basics can be far more effective."

In Mirai's eyes, Kakashi's early talent was undeniable, but after gaining the Sharingan, he'd chosen a different path, one full of flashy jutsu that eventually earned him the title of "Kakashi the Copy Ninja." To Mirai, this was wasting his own natural talent. If Kakashi had dedicated himself to mastering his father's Hatake sword techniques, he would be leagues stronger than the so-called "Copy Ninja." At the very least, he wouldn't have struggled so much against someone like Zabuza.

"Ahem… ahem…" Hiruzen cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention.

"The match ended quickly, but it was impressive nonetheless." He looked around with a hint of regret. "Seeing as some of you may not fully understand what happened, allow me to explain."

The fight had clearly exceeded the standard level of a Chūnin duel, leaving most spectators lost as to what had transpired. To satisfy their curiosity, Hiruzen had no choice but to take on the role of a commentator.

"When the battle began, Kakashi used the Body Flicker Technique to close in on Mirai and pierced him with a short sword. However, it was only Mirai's Crow Clone. The clone dispersed into dozens of crows that scattered."

"At that moment, Kakashi noticed something unusual beneath his feet. He leapt into the air to avoid Mirai's 'Double Suicide Decapitation Technique.' But that, too, was only a Clone, meant as a feint. Mirai's true body had transformed into one of those flying crows, concealing himself among them."

"When Kakashi found himself mid-air with no way to dodge, Mirai appeared behind him and took him down with a single move."

As Hiruzen explained, the watching ninja exchanged shocked glances. They hadn't realized how much had unfolded in such a short fight. Especially Mirai... his moves were terrifying, each step calculated to be almost impossible to counter. Even with an observer's perspective, it felt overwhelming.

"That's insane. If I ever face someone like Mirai, I don't know how I'd survive," someone muttered.

"Crow Clones, Transformation Technique, C-rank jutsu… they're such basic moves, yet he's made them so effective. Is this the world of a genius ninja?"

"It makes me think, 'Maybe I could pull off something like that too!' I'll try it next time I'm in battle!"

"Don't get ahead of yourself," another chimed in. "Did you forget how fast everything happened? Can you even keep up with that kind of hand sign speed?"

"Good point…"

Listening to the conversation and Hiruzen's analysis, Kakashi felt a sudden clarity. Since his father's death, he hadn't focused on refining basic techniques like hand signs and swordsmanship. He'd assumed that learning more jutsu was the key to strength. But now, he could see the flaws in that thinking. True power came from a solid foundation.

The individual matches continued through the afternoon. Mirai, growing bored, stifled a yawn. After his victory over Kakashi, his subsequent opponents chose to forfeit, nearly putting him to sleep. Fortunately, Hiruzen wasn't the one giving the post-battle summary this time, or Mirai was sure the old man would launch into one of his usual "inspiring" speeches.

"With that, the Chūnin Exams have officially concluded," the proctor announced. "Those promoted will receive their documents and tactical vests within the next three days."

The results were in. Aside from Obito, who had not been promoted, Guy, Kurenai, Asuma, and Kakashi had all passed the exam.

"Let's all go out for dinner to celebrate?" Kurenai suggested, smiling at the group.

Everyone nodded in agreement. They were comrades, and now, new Chūnin—it was the perfect excuse for a celebration.

"I think I'll pass." Obito shook his head, looking downcast. Failing to become a Chūnin had left him feeling discouraged, he didn't even have the energy to join Rin for a meal.

"Don't worry, Obito," Rin reassured him. "The Chūnin Exams are held every three months. You'll get promoted next time for sure!"

"Hahaha! Of course!" Obito laughed, hands on his hips. "After all, I'm gonna be Hokage one day!" He turned, raising a hand as he walked away.

"I promised Granny I'd pick up some flour, so I'll catch you all later!"

Watching his retreating figure, Rin sighed. Obito was wonderful, but his stubbornness could be a handful. Whenever something went wrong, he'd close himself off, always a bit of a worry for her.

"Shall we go?" Mirai asked, glancing around at the others. For some reason, he felt he'd become their unofficial leader.

Under Mirai's lead, they made their way to the best barbecue joint in Konoha. Ebisu discreetly pulled out some sake he'd stashed away, even though underage drinking was technically forbidden for ninja. But with the festive atmosphere in full swing, everyone poured themselves a small cup.

Mirai noticed Kurenai's face light up after her first sip, her cheeks flushed in excitement. The cute look stirred something in him, he remembered how, in the original story, Kurenai had a love for alcohol similar to Tsunade's. He couldn't help but wonder—how strong was her tolerance? If it wasn't great, he might just get lucky tonight.

Just then, he looked up to see Kakashi standing in front of him, holding his cup.

"Mirai, you taught me another lesson today," Kakashi said, eyes alight with determination. "No matter how far apart we are now, one day, I'll make you look at me with respect."

With that, Kakashi downed his drink in one go, a flush spreading over his cheeks. Mirai could sense a real change in him—a renewed drive to improve and an openness in his personality. Perhaps one day, Kakashi would make for an invaluable ally.

Lifting his own cup, Mirai raised it in a toast. "Kakashi, I look forward to that day."

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