It was early. Too early for many of the civilians to even consider being awake. Yet that wasn't the case for a newly arrived silent 9 year old kunoichi, who had been asked to wait at the gate for a ANBU escort to the Hokage.
The mission was a simple one, a designated break after accumulating too many high risk distractions that had resulted in bloodshed. Kakashi was somewhat annoyed by it, but he obeyed, as was expected of him.
The one in need of his protection was a mere child, but he knew the details of her significance. She was to be ushered to the Hokage's office, and from there, a likely assignment to keep watch over her until some more pressing matter required his skillset.
He looked down on her, his face fully concealed beneath his ANBU mask save for the glint of his eyes.
"You are to follow me from this point on. Do not leave my side, do not speak to anyone. Do you have any questions before we proceed?"