Three days later, an unmarked carriage quietly entered Konoha at dusk.
There was no welcoming ceremony, nor any advance announcement.
The carriage stopped directly in a secluded corner by the rear entrance of the Hokage Building.
Baishi stood by the office window, watching the familiar yet strange figure step down from the carriage. Her long golden hair remained conspicuous even in the fading light.
She did not enter the Hokage Building directly. Instead, guided by an ANBU operative, she turned into an inconspicuous alley beside it.
That alley led to the No. 3 Cafeteria, reserved for the village's higher-ups.
Baishi withdrew his gaze, picked up the Hokage Straw Hat from the table, and put it on.
"Shikaku, postpone tonight's High-level Regular Meeting by an hour."
Shikaku Nara's hands stopped as he sorted the documents. He looked up at Baishi, a flicker of understanding in his eyes.
"Yes."
The No. 3 Cafeteria had only one private room.
When Baishi pushed open the door, Tsunade was pouring herself a drink. An empty liquor bottle already sat on the table. She was not wearing her iconic green cloak, only a simple plain-colored outfit, making her look more like an ordinary traveler.
"The Hokage really knows how to put on airs. You kept me waiting for nearly half an hour."
Tsunade did not look up. Her voice carried a trace of post-drinking languor, as well as a hint of distance.
Baishi sat down across from her and poured himself a cup as well.
"The village has been swamped with affairs. Sorry for the wait, Lady Tsunade."
He offered no explanation, merely stating it calmly.
Tsunade drained her cup and set it down heavily.
"Spit it out. You went to such lengths to drag me back from the gambling tables—what earth-shattering medical problem is it?"