Letting out a deep breath, Toshiro Uchiha looked at the unconscious Haru Uchiha and finally felt a sense of relief.
Now that the situation had stabilized, he had done his utmost.
From this point on, it was up to Haru herself and the blessings of the Sage of Six Paths!
He hoped that old sage, wherever he was hiding, could take care of his descendants.
However, speaking of it, whether it's Toshiro or Madara, this group of Uchihas could be considered direct descendants of the Six Paths.
They were just not favored by the old man!
At this moment, alongside Toshiro, were Zhe Uchiha and two other sturdy assistants who also let out a sigh of relief.
Earlier, watching their comrade receive such 'cruel' treatment, even as bystanders, they didn't dare to breathe loudly.
They were afraid that their actions might distract Toshiro and cause any mishap to their comrade undergoing emergency treatment.
Seeing that the rescue was over and that their comrade's condition was improving, they all relaxed.
But this sudden relaxation, along with having just gone through a battle, made it hard for them to even stand.
Actually, speaking of it, this group of clan children had received a lot of care from their elders.
The number of Iwa-nin coming from the main battlefield was limited. Even if some exceeded their tolerance level, it was still manageable.
There would not be a large group of upper-class Iwa-nin charging at them.
Compared to Toshiro's team at the front, the impact on the other two teams was smaller.
Otherwise, they wouldn't have held on until Toshiro and Zhe came to support.
...
A week later, in the Konoha camp in the Land of Grass.
In Toshiro Uchiha's tent, a large group of young Uchiha who had just come down from the battle was gathered.
As a valuable combat force, even if they needed to be used, Konoha would maximize this group of Uchiha's value.
Therefore, they could occasionally get some rest.
At this time, everyone gathered in Toshiro's tent because these kids didn't have the privilege of having their own tents.
Being a special talent and a 'Three Tomoe' Uchiha, Toshiro enjoyed certain privileges.
Often traveling between Konoha and the camp, he could also secretly bring some personal items, like now.
In the center of the tent was a rare portable gas canister and a specially designed stove.
A pot of mixed beef, potatoes, and vegetables akin to Oden was stewing.
His friends were gathered around, enjoying this rare treat in the camp.
One should never deny themselves the good things in life, right?
"Toshiro! This gas canister you had Master Tetsuhira make is so convenient! Not only is it easy to use, but it also doesn't produce smoke..."
The friend praised this new gadget while eagerly waiting for the meal.
"Of course, I don't plan to use it just in the tent. If I have a mission, I intend to take it! I've had enough of the rations provided by the village!"
Hearing Toshiro's plan, his friend voiced concern.
In missions, stealth was crucial for ninjas. Using an open flame during missions seemed risky.
"Relax! If I use it, it will depend on the situation! I won't use it in dangerous areas!
Besides, even if I don't cook with it, I can use it to keep warm at night in safe places!"
"…That seems alright."
Imagining Toshiro's scenario, the friend found it acceptable.
Being young, they adapted quickly to Toshiro's new ideas, without much mental resistance.
"Hey! You guys started eating without waiting for me!"
Taking advantage while they were distracted and sensing the food was done, the other friends began to dig in.
"You're too slow... Taro!"
"This piece of beef is mine. Don't compete with me!"
Watching his friends enjoy the food, Toshiro smiled, joining the feast.
Toshiro had planned this thoughtfully. The food wasn't particularly delicious but certainly better than the usual camp fare.
He aimed to relieve his friends' anxiety.
Though trained as ninjas, they were still young and witnessing comrades getting injured or dying frequently could cause psychological issues.
Adults had ways to cope, like alcohol or other outlets for their fear and stress.
But these young ones couldn't use those methods.
Seeing this, Toshiro decided on such gatherings to help them relax.
Otherwise, prolonged stress could break them eventually.
The result might not be guaranteed, but a shared meal couldn't hurt.
At most, it would just cost some money—something he could afford for a hotpot meal.
Yes, hotpot! He preferred this convenient dish.
And it seemed effective...
(End of the chapter)