A shame?... Kakashi swallowed at that recognition, and took a long moment to cradle his piping-hot cup before lowering his mask and taking the smallest sip. The tea was excellent; warming and perfectly brewed, and so very smooth that it might have inspired a more paranoid ninja into thinking that it was drugged. He closed his eyes, exhaled through his nose and let out a soft hum of comfort.

"I think I owe him a little attention," Kakashi murmured once he'd remembered how to speak again. "I've been away for some time."