Isn't This Where We Give Flowers?

"They're here!"

On the main road several dozen miles from Konoha, a Hyuga-born Leaf Ninja in the reconnaissance squad assigned to receive them narrowed his eyes, excitement instantly appearing on his face.

"Go notify Hokage-sama!"

"Yes!"

One teammate who received the order did not question it and immediately turned back toward Konoha. The rest remained where they were, waiting for the victorious frontline troops to return.

Sure enough, before long, the travel-worn frontline troops appeared at the far end of the road. Though they looked somewhat bedraggled, every face was lit with excited smiles.

Except Xiao Tuan Tuan.

Because Senju Hi Shin had misdiagnosed him, Danzo's two butt cheeks had departed from him. With his wounds not yet healed, he could only lie face-down on a stretcher.

"Kagami, I want some water."

Pale-faced, he licked his dry lips and turned to look at his foster father, who was walking beside him.

"Danzo, I..."

Kagami turned at his words. Seeing Danzo's hopeful eyes, he scratched his head awkwardly.

"No!"

A cool, irritated voice rang out as Senju Hi Shin shot Kagami-zai a fierce glare.

"He can't drink a single drop of water until his wounds have healed."

Not only were Danzo's wounds in a delicate location, but the injured area was shockingly large. They absolutely could not come into contact with the slightest bit of filth, or the consequences would be impossible to predict.

"Sorry, Danzo."

Kagami-zai could only shake his head regretfully, leaving Danzo in utter despair.

"Aren't you a medical ninja? Heal me!"

"I don't know the Mystical Palm Technique."

To avoid touching Danzo's filthy butt, Senju Hi Shin told a small lie.

"Hang in there. Once we're back in the village, I'll find you a doctor right away."

Seeing Danzo looking like his world had ended, Kagami Uchiha