(I blame the frontispiece of #51 for this.)
Countermeasures 101
Maito Gai crouched behind a tree, observing his target carefully. The man appeared to be praying, but Gai knew better. A ninja had to look underneath the underneath, and this was the most enigmatic and unpredictable opponent on the planet.
As though echoing Gai's thoughts, the target spoke without turning around.
"What are you looking at, Gai?"
Busted. Well... when in doubt, bluff. Gai swaggered out onto the path, radiating injured innocence.
"What are you looking at, Kakashi? I'm obviously conducting a solo training mission. When faced with a challenge, every ninja's first priority is gathering as much intelligence as possible."
"Yes, I can see where that might be useful."
"Hmph." No, Kakashi could never be underestimated -- but two could play at that copy-ninja game. Gai rolled his eyes. "Eh, did you say something?"
Kakashi's shoulders quivered, and Gai could have sworn his rival was laughing; but the light voice was as mild as ever.
"Give it up, Gai. You don't know how to do indifference."
"Is that a test? You have no idea what you're getting into, Kakashi. I can ignore you twice as effectively as you've ever ignored me. Three times. TEN times!"
With a supersonic thwack, Gai disappeared.
Turning back to the altar, Kakashi smiled behind his mask.
I win.
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