The Daimyo's Mansion, side hall.
The next day, in the afternoon.
The signing ceremony was simple.
In the spacious side hall, there was only a long table and two chairs. On the table lay a document drafted overnight: the "Capital Protection Pact."
Uchiha En stood in the center of the hall, clasped his hands, and bowed. His etiquette was flawless.
The Daimyo sat in the seat of honor, his brocade robes immaculate. The dark circles beneath his eyes were deeper than yesterday.
After three sleepless nights, heavy makeup and sheer bearing were all that held his dignity together.
"Fifth Hokage."
He lifted his chin slightly, affecting a calm air of superiority.
"Before I put my seal to it, we should review the terms here in the hall."
Uchiha En made himself comfortable, sat down, and opened the document.
He read it page by page, taking his time.
At length, Uchiha En closed it, looked up, and raised three fingers.
"Three terms in all."
"First, Konoha will establish the Capital Liaison Office in the Capital of the Land of Fire, with full authority over all matters concerning its protection."
The Daimyo's brow twitched sharply.
The Capital Liaison Office.
That meant Konoha could openly reach into the heart of the Capital and plant itself at the center of his court.
The Daimyo's brow twitched again.
A liaison office.
Konoha was about to get a foothold in the Capital.
He opened his mouth, ready to object.
But news of the Capital of the Land of Wind turning to ash overnight still rang in his ears, and he forced the objection back down.
"Approved."
"Second, all assets, shops, trade routes, and mines belonging to the Land of Fire's nobles must be entered into a register and reported to the Capital Liaison Office."
This time,