Uchiha Itachi and Pain had been left standing on the sidelines.
Itachi's tense, confrontational stance gradually relaxed.
He watched Genya and Konan talk like siblings reunited after years apart-or perhaps kindred spirits-moving from a song to their deepest feelings and ideals.
He deactivated his Mangekyō Sharingan and slid his Ninja Blade back into its sheath.
He knew there would be no more fighting, at least tonight.
Genya, that mouth of yours really is... astonishing.
Pain could clearly sense the violent fluctuations in Konan's emotions.
He "saw" the rare softness in her eyes. This Uchiha boy possessed not only astounding talent and a calculating mind, but also a terrifying ability to see into people's hearts and resonate with them.
He was no longer merely a promising recruit, but a variable who might influence Konan, or even the delicate balance within Dawn.
Emotional resonance... Yahiko's shadow and the echo of his ideals... dangerous, but perhaps... something I can use.
Over in the VIP seats.
The Land of Fire's Daimyo, his confidants, and the senior officials were still immersed in the lingering blend of passion and hope, their applause refusing to die down.
The Daimyo had long since closed his folding fan, and his face openly displayed his admiration and appreciation.
"Wonderful! Absolutely wonderful!"
The Daimyo laughed and clapped, his eyes gleaming.
"Such music belongs in heaven-how often can mortals hope to hear it? The Uchiha's Dawn Girl Group truly lives up to its reputation. No, it far exceeds it!"
The courtiers beside him hurried to agree, pouring out endless praise.
Some had harbored resentment toward the Uchiha because of Genya's "rudeness" in the hall yesterday and the instigation of certain Hardline Faction officials.
Now, even they had been won over by the sheer sincerity and infectious appeal of the performance, and