JAIF

Pein nodded in relative satisfaction - Jiraya would not lie in this situation. Why would he, after all - Itachi's death should be a common goal between the three, at least.

Then, a word clung in Pein's ears, echoing in his mind over and over again, continuously shattering all that Pein was, is, and would be to fragments, enforcing upon him a whole new view of reality and existence. He stood there, unable to comprehend the magnificent genius of the twist events had taken, as that single word changed everything.

He whipped his head around, facing his former subordinate.

"Orochimaru..." He whispered, the words hoarse and blurred in his ears.

"How..."

He took a deep breath, the significance of what he was about to say weighing heavily upon his entire being like a burden of lead.

"...did you cook the rabbit?"

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