The next day.
The Capital seemed a little less bustling than usual, with a new air of stunned unease in the wake of disaster.
On the streets, the ruins in the direction of the Palace and the shocking cross section of the distant mountain range had become taboo subjects everyone whispered about but dared not discuss aloud.
Genya, Chinatsu, and Itachi were accompanying Pain and Konan on a stroll through the neighborhood.
Meanwhile, Shisui had taken Elder Yashiro, Uchiha Hozuki, and the others to conduct the "handover" with several ashen-faced officials whose deference bordered on groveling.
They were counting the eight hundred million ryo in banknotes and some easily transported valuables.
After last night's earth-shattering "performance," the process went exceptionally smoothly. No one dared delay anything or skim so much as a fraction.
Before parting at the ruins last night, the two sides had exchanged names.
Genya had learned that this cool, beautiful woman was called Konan, while the aloof older man who called himself "God" was named Pain.
Their relationship had grown somewhat subtle after that mountain-cleaving slash and the subsequent "claim for compensation," involving mutual recognition of their strength-or wariness.
There was also a strange thread of connection born of the "Blue Bird" and their discussion of ideals.
"Konan,"
Genya said somewhat indistinctly as he gnawed on a candied apple bought from a roadside stall.
"Once we've settled everything on our end, we're heading back to Konoha this afternoon. What about you? When are you leaving this... well, rather messy place?"
He blinked, casting a meaningful glance toward the Palace.
Konan held a cup of plain tea, gently blowing away the steam. At his words, she glanced at him.
"We... still have a few things to confirm. We won't stay long."
"Oh..."
Genya nodded, finished the apple in