336-340

Chapter 336: Ten Tails

"You’ll never know until you fight him just how strong Minato Namikaze truly is!"

This man, who always carried a sunny smile and radiated warmth like a small sun within the village, seemed approachable and kind to everyone.

But!

When facing enemies, he would bare his fangs, exuding a fearsome and menacing aura that struck terror into the hearts of his foes.

Right now, Hiruzen Sarutobi and his group were Minato Namikaze's enemies.

Minato had always been ruthless toward his enemies.

Otherwise, he wouldn't have earned the moniker Yellow Flash during the Ninja World Wars.

In the original story, when Minato met Naruto and discovered the life he had endured, he subtly tried to console his son, encouraging him to let go of past unhappiness.

Did he truly say that willingly?

What else could he have done?

He was already dead. He couldn’t stand up for his son anymore, so all he could do was advise him to endure.

But this time, things were different!

Minato Namikaze had truly gone mad.

He single-handedly suppressed three powerful foes.

In mere moments, Danzo had been killed three times, and Hiruzen Sarutobi had suffered significant injuries.

Only Onoki remained, floating in midair.

Yet he dared not descend.

An enemy like Minato Namikaze could completely neutralize most ninja.

Onoki was no exception.

What terrified Onoki even more was that Minato had locked onto him.

A single moment of carelessness, and Minato might unleash a thunderous attack.

Thankfully, Onoki hadn’t been marked by Minato’s Flying Raijin technique. Otherwise, he might have already met his end.

Danzo and the Third Hokage were likely already marked, making staying with them exceedingly dangerous.

Onoki’s face was grim, a flicker of helplessness in his eyes.

He could abandon Danzo and the Third Hokage, but then what?

He was already nearly isolated; losing them would leave him entirely hopeless.

Even though hope was slim now, at least they could encourage one another, providing a glimmer of morale.

Itsuki observed the scene for a moment before turning his attention to another battlefield.

Minato Namikaze alone would have no trouble.

If luck favored him, he might eliminate all three enemies directly!

Itsuki no longer saw the need to keep Hiruzen Sarutobi alive; his usefulness was nearly exhausted. If he could be killed, so be it.

For now, Itsuki had to focus on the White Zetsu Army.

The White Zetsu forces had divided into two groups.

One attacked from the front, while the other tried to infiltrate the rear to sow chaos.

Moreover, many White Zetsu clones carried explosive tags.

Clearly, Itsuki’s earlier concerns were valid.

Even Tobi had considered using explosive tags as a weapon.

Having endured so much in secret, Tobi would surely have access to a supply of explosive tags.

Fortunately, Konoha had even more.

Even in a contest of throwing bombs, Konoha held the upper hand.

Konoha could even let the enemy get a 39-meter head start!

At this, Itsuki couldn’t help but shout internally: "Konan, MVP! V5, 87, 36D!"

If not for Konan, Konoha’s financial resources, though robust, wouldn’t have been able to support such a costly tactic.

Now, all Itsuki could say was: Poor Obito!  

But!

While Itsuki sympathized with Obito, Obito remained entirely unaware of this sentiment.

He continued issuing orders.

As the White Zetsu Army was pinned down, Obito commanded the Edo Tensei ninja to advance.

Against them, Konoha deployed its elite forces, equipped with explosive tags and followed by sealing ninjas.

In just a few skirmishes, the Edo Tensei forces were suppressed.

Obito’s expression remained stoic as he issued yet another command.

The Bloodline Limit monsters were unleashed.

“Summoning Jutsu!”

On Konoha’s side, dozens of ninjas were already prepared with scrolls.

Once again, they summoned the creatures from Shikkotsu Forest, Mount Myoboku, and Ryuchi Cave!

Every high-level summoning beast from the three great sacred grounds was brought forth, rendering the Bloodline Limit monsters insignificant!

This preparation surpassed even the last time, and the Bloodline Limit monsters were almost instantly subdued.

The others remained calm.

Minato Namikaze, however, gawked in shock.

You can do that?!  

Every high-level summoning beast from the three great sacred grounds, including his own Boss Toad, had been summoned.

This left Minato unable to summon the toads for help.

Hiruzen Sarutobi summoned Enma, the Monkey King—a powerful summoning beast capable of using ninjutsu, forming hand seals, and transforming into weapons.

While “strongest” might be debatable, Enma was undeniably formidable.

With Enma’s support, Hiruzen unleashed extraordinary power.

Minato, though capable of winning in a drawn-out battle, decided he couldn’t waste any more time.

Konoha had suffered significant casualties. As a Flying Raijin ninja, Minato felt it was his duty to aid Konoha, just as Tobirama once had.

Flying Raijin users excelled in swiftly defeating enemies.

However, given the current situation, Minato opted to take his time.

Because it was more satisfying that way!

His gaze turned icy.

“Obito, what’s your next move?”

Itsuki leisurely approached Obito, watching him with an air of calm curiosity.

Thanks to thorough preparations, Konoha methodically dismantled the opposing forces.

Itsuki was in no hurry.

He held a decisive advantage.

Obito glanced at Itsuki and said coolly, “Uchiha Itsuki, do you think you’ve already won?”

“Oh?” Itsuki asked with interest. “Do you still have a trick up your sleeve? If so, bring it out now. Otherwise, you won’t get another chance.”

In the shadows, Madara Uchiha frowned slightly.

This time, Konoha had gathered all its strength, a stark contrast to the past.

The sheer number of elite fighters surprised even Madara.

Not even during the Warring States Period had there been so many strong individuals!

Uchiha Itsuki! What an intriguing youngster!  

But then…

Madara studied Obito, wondering: What’s your next move? There’s not much you can do now.  

“I still have one final move!”

Obito began forming hand seals, speaking calmly. “Uchiha Itsuki, if you can deal with this, then I truly have no options left.”

“Oh?”

Itsuki’s interest piqued.

Could there really be something he didn’t know about?

Boom!  

Amid a massive cloud of smoke, an enormous figure emerged.

Seeing the figure, Itsuki froze before bursting into laughter. “Obito, what’s this? Him again? Didn’t I already beat him down last time?”

The Ten-Tails husk!

Standing before Itsuki was none other than the Ten-Tails husk.

Its face, still swollen from its previous defeat at Itsuki’s hands, hadn’t yet healed.

In the shadows, Madara Uchiha observed the Ten-Tails husk and chuckled softly. “So that’s how it is.”

Obito locked eyes with Itsuki. “It’s different now, Uchiha Itsuki. This time, it’s the Ten-Tails!”

“Hm?”

Itsuki blinked, scrutinizing the husk. He quickly noticed its power had indeed increased significantly since their last encounter.

“What’s going on?”

He muttered, “All the tailed beasts are in my possession. How is this possible…”

“You’re right,” Obito’s voice echoed. “But don’t forget, some individuals still carry the power of the tailed beasts!”

“Individuals with tailed beast power?”

Realization dawned on Itsuki.

The past jinchuriki!

Just like the previous Eight-Tails jinchuriki, their bodies still harbored significant tailed beast energy.

---

*Did Obito set his sights on those people?*

*Orochimaru!*

Itsuki's expression darkened.

The power contained within the Ten-Tails far exceeded imagination—it was unbelievably strong. No doubt, it had devoured countless Jinchūriki.

If those Jinchūriki could be resurrected, there was only one person who could do it—Orochimaru!

*You've caused me quite a lot of trouble again!*

A hint of killing intent appeared in Itsuki's eyes.

He genuinely wanted Orochimaru's knowledge and hoped the man could help him grow stronger.

But!

Orochimaru had not only repeatedly refused him but had also brought him no end of problems.

Even though many of those problems were inevitable, it still left Itsuki deeply annoyed!

*If possible, I should find an opportunity to make Orochimaru disappear!*

With Tobirama Senju around, he could take Orochimaru's place.

Itsuki made his decision.

Hidden in the shadows, Orochimaru suddenly felt a chill down his spine.

He suppressed his presence even further.

He knew that someone was targeting him.

Whoever it was, it couldn’t mean anything good.

---

*"Roar!"*

The Ten-Tails let out a thunderous roar. Its form had already begun to change, and its body became unnaturally flexible, almost as if it had lost its bones.

However!

Its aura was doubling in intensity.

A look of solemnity flashed across Itsuki’s eyes.

*This is impressive!*

The power increase is truly remarkable.

*Just how many past Jinchūriki did it consume?*

The Jinchūriki's bodies retained tailed beast chakra—powerful chakra at that. Heh, the Impure World Reincarnation technique itself was already absurdly unfair.

---

*"Roar!"*

The Ten-Tails let out a deafening roar aimed directly at Itsuki.

*"Tsk tsk,"* Itsuki sneered with disdain.

If the original Ten-Tails' shell was something he could easily crush, this upgraded version required him to take it seriously.

This was a level of power that could truly harm him.

---

*"Uchiha Itsuki, let me see your strength!"*

Obito's malicious smile deepened as he spoke:

*"Otherwise, the Allied Shinobi Forces will disappear."*

---

*"Roar!"*

Hearing Obito’s words, the Ten-Tails roared as if receiving a command. A tailed beast bomb began forming in its mouth, and it launched the attack straight at the Konoha ninja forces.

---

*"You bastard!"*

Itsuki shouted in anger.

---

*"Shing!"*

A figure flashed by.

In the next moment, countless sealing runes appeared in midair, intercepting the tailed beast bomb.

The runes constricted, slowly devouring the massive bomb.

---

*"Ayako…"*

Itsuki immediately recognized who had done it.

That was obviously a sealing technique.

Throughout all of Konoha—no, perhaps the entire ninja world—only Uzumaki Ayako could achieve something like that.

---

*"An Uzumaki clan member…"*

While fending off Hiruzen Sarutobi and two others, Minato Namikaze turned to look, his eyes filled with complicated emotions.

Just like his wife.

---

*"Roar!"*

After its first attack failed, the Ten-Tails grew irritated. It roared again, opening its mouth wide.

*"Shut up!"*

With a cold snort, Itsuki flashed in front of the Ten-Tails.

---

*"Boom!"*

The Susano’o quickly manifested, and a punch drove the Ten-Tails’ head into the ground.

*"Don’t get cocky!"*

*"Roar!"*

The furious Ten-Tails roared once more, lunging at Itsuki.

Itsuki, piloting his Susano’o, met the beast head-on without hesitation.

---

*"He actually came up with this plan! Obito really has some ideas!"*

Madara Uchiha's eyes lit up as he murmured:

*"With this, once the Ten-Tails absorbs the chakra of the other tailed beasts, its power will become even greater. And I, after becoming its Jinchūriki, will become even more powerful."*

He stared at the Ten-Tails, itching to take action.

He didn’t want to wait any longer.

He wanted to be resurrected, become the Ten-Tails Jinchūriki, and launch the Eye of the Moon Plan.

Infinite Tsukuyomi would bring a new world!

---

*Hmm?*

Lost in thought, Madara sensed a familiar presence approaching.

He looked up.

Senju Hashirama!

After the war broke out, Hashirama had been searching for Madara.

Everyone had their roles to play, and his task was to keep Madara occupied and prevent him from intervening in the battle.

They all understood that with Madara’s power, his presence on the battlefield could create catastrophic changes.

And because Hashirama’s strength hadn’t fully returned to its peak, all he could do was hold Madara off.

---

*"Roar!"*

The Ten-Tails roared, clashing fiercely with Uchiha Itsuki.

Its strength had grown significantly.

Just a few exchanges were enough for Itsuki to notice something was wrong.

It surpassed Kage-level—this was undoubtedly Sage-level power.

The original Ten-Tails had already been at the Sage level. After being split into the nine tailed beasts, the power of the Nine-Tails alone barely scratched Sage level.

After a few clashes, Itsuki realized their powers were almost evenly matched.

---

*"Looks like I can only rely on my dojutsu to this extent,"* Itsuki thought to himself.

*"The Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan hasn’t evolved into the Rinnegan yet. Should I use the tailed beast's power within me?"*

He hesitated.

Using it now would undoubtedly expose many secrets.

But!

Without it, defeating the Ten-Tails would be no easy feat.

A small mistake could even lead to his defeat.

---

*"Swish!"*

At that moment, a figure suddenly appeared beside the Ten-Tails.

They attached a large number of explosive tags to its body.

---

*"Boom!!!"*

A violent explosion ensued, and the Ten-Tails howled in pain.

---

*"Minato Namikaze?"*

Itsuki was stunned.

Wasn’t this guy fighting Hiruzen Sarutobi and the others?

---

*"Hokage-sama, please hold on a little longer!"*

Minato’s voice rang out.

*"As soon as I deal with Sarutobi and the others, I’ll come to help you immediately!"*

Itsuki instinctively nodded.

*"Alright!"*

Wait!!!

Minato is helping me?

Hiruzen and the other two are still Kage-level, despite their old age and declining strength.

Minato can handle them alone and still spare some energy to assist me?

This guy is that strong?

Itsuki was dumbfounded.

---

No wonder Jiraiya, one of the Sannin, believed he was the Child of Prophecy destined to change the ninja world!

---

*"Fine, in that case, let's hold out for now!"*

Staring at the Ten-Tails, Itsuki murmured:

*"As long as we stall for a bit, reinforcements should arrive."*

---

*"I almost forgot!"*

Looking at the Ten-Tails, Itsuki smirked mischievously.

*"I’m not just a powerful ninja—I’m the Hokage!"*

(Chapter ends).

*Chapter 338: Clearing the Small Fry*

“Roar!”

The Ten-Tails let out a low growl. Frustrated by the failure of its attack, it became visibly more enraged, increasing the intensity of its onslaught.

Sharp spikes of earth continuously shot up from beneath Naruto and Sasuke’s feet, forcing the two to evade constantly.

“Bang!”

At this moment, Itsuki finally lost his patience and stepped in.

With a powerful thrust, he appeared in front of the Ten-Tails. One slap sent the giant beast crashing face-first into the ground. The sheer force of the impact caused its legs to flip into the air.

“You mangy mutt! Do you think I’m just for show? If I don’t teach you a lesson, you’ll really think I’m a pushover!” Itsuki growled, his face dark and foreboding.

“Roar!”

The Ten-Tails roared furiously. It lunged at Itsuki, pinning him to the ground. A tailed beast bomb began forming in its mouth, ready to strike.

Itsuki, unfazed, moved his fingers slightly, preparing to counterattack.

“Bang!”

A small but swift kick landed on the Ten-Tails’ head, causing its face to twist to the side. The source? Sasuke!

Despite wielding only a standard Mangekyō Sharingan, Sasuke’s Susano’o, a modest few dozen meters tall, seemed almost adorable in comparison to the towering Ten-Tails.

“Watch this!” Naruto’s voice rang out.

Holding a massive Wind Release: Rasenshuriken, he smashed it into the Ten-Tails’ face, causing the beast to stumble and tilt its head backward.

“Scram!”

Seeing this, Itsuki didn’t hesitate. With a powerful kick, he sent the Ten-Tails flying.

As he rose to his feet, Itsuki cast a peculiar glance at the two youngsters. He had been waiting for Itachi, Fugaku, and the others to arrive, never expecting these two kids to step in as reinforcements.

“Hehe, Brother Itsuki, how’s that?” Naruto beamed, clearly proud, as he noticed Itsuki’s surprised expression.

Sasuke, on the other hand, raised his head with a haughty air.

“Fine, fine!” Itsuki sighed in exasperation. “You two go deal with those smaller enemies.”

“Smaller enemies?”

“Yes!” Itsuki pointed at the reanimated ninja, White Zetsu, and the few remaining creatures. “Clear them out. Leave this big guy to me.”

This was the Ten-Tails!

With their current abilities—just basic Mangekyō Sharingan and preliminary control of Kurama’s power—there was no way Itsuki would let them linger here.

Even though he knew the Sage of Six Paths was watching and that the two wouldn’t die, instead growing stronger, he couldn’t gamble on that.

A village leader has no right to gamble with his people’s lives. Besides, these two would be crucial in the future against Kaguya Ōtsutsuki or even the Sage himself.

Using them to fight the Ten-Tails—especially one awakened purely from tailed beast chakra—was a waste of their potential.

“Come on!” Naruto shouted in protest. “Brother Itsuki, let us team up with you to take this thing down! The other stuff is…”

His face twisted in obvious distaste.

Itsuki rolled his eyes.

You're actually being picky?

Look at the likes of Itachi and the other powerhouses—aren’t they also fighting these “small fry”?

And here you are, already complaining.

“Stop whining!” Itsuki barked. “Clear out those smaller enemies quickly, then you can help with the big one. On the battlefield, you dare disobey orders?”

“Fine…” Naruto grumbled, pouting.

“Heh!” Minato, who had been silently observing, let out an awkward laugh. It seemed his son was getting a bit too cocky.

---

“Well then,” Orochimaru spread his hands helplessly. “Looks like we’re going to fail again.”

Beside him, Hiruko scowled. “I knew this would be the outcome before the battle even started.”

“Then why wager everything you have?” Orochimaru asked, raising an eyebrow in surprise. Those bloodline limit monsters weren’t cheap.

Hiruko pointed toward the battlefield, his voice calm. “This is the largest-scale battle in history and the final war for Konoha to unify the ninja world. How could I not take part? Don’t you think it’d be a waste?”

“Fair point.” Orochimaru gazed at the battlefield, speaking slowly. “The largest war in history… perhaps we should join it ourselves.”

“Oh?” Hiruko looked at Orochimaru in astonishment. “You’re going in personally?”

“If you dare to show up in person, why wouldn’t I?” Orochimaru replied, his tone icy. “My true body is already on its way.”

Hiruko’s surprise deepened. “If you dare, then so will I!”

“Good!”

With that, Orochimaru’s body suddenly went limp. Moments later, a new Orochimaru emerged, smiling wickedly.

“Hiruko, I’ll go first!” he said, smirking. “If you’re scared, feel free to run away!”

Whoosh!

Orochimaru, now half-snake, half-human, darted toward the battlefield.

“That lunatic!” Hiruko muttered, stunned.

He’s really going? A battle of this magnitude, and you’re just a Kage-level ninja. Do you really think you belong here? Aren’t you afraid of being obliterated?

Hiruko’s face turned pale. He had already prepared for Obito’s defeat. If that happened, he would flee immediately.

The reason he sent all his bloodline limit creatures to the front lines was to deplete the opposing forces.

After all, was a lone Hiruko dangerous? Or was a Hiruko leading dozens of bloodline limit monsters more dangerous?

If Konoha emerged victorious, they would undoubtedly send someone to hunt him down.

A lone Hiruko might warrant the likes of Kakashi and Guy. But Hiruko with an army of bloodline limit creatures? That would bring at least ten Kakashi-level and ten Guy-level ninjas to pursue him.

The intensity of the pursuit would be drastically different.

That said, Hiruko still felt an urge to participate in this final war. Missing out on a battle of this scale would be truly regrettable.

But personally stepping in? Forget it. He wasn’t willing to risk being obliterated by a stray attack from some powerhouse.

“Orochimaru, you lunatic!” Hiruko cursed, though his curiosity got the better of him.

What was Orochimaru’s plan? Sure, his abilities were decent, but on a battlefield like this, he was far from exceptional.

Where did he find the courage?

His answer came moments later.

“Hehehe, hahahaha!”

Orochimaru laughed as he rushed forward. “Itsuki-kun, I’m here! How could I miss a battle like this?”

Itsuki turned his head, frowning at Orochimaru.

In a war of this scale, did someone of Orochimaru’s level truly matter?

At most, his greatest contribution lay in his Reanimation Jutsu—though much of its potential had already been sealed.

---

The reanimated ninja still numbered over a thousand, causing significant trouble for Konoha and tying up many of its top fighters.

It could be said that more than 80% of the elite ninjas from the three allied villages, led by Konoha, were gathered here.

"Jiraiya, go!"

Itsuki issued the command.

A battle between close friends was always worth watching.

"Yes!"

Jiraiya eagerly rushed toward Orochimaru.

He had long wanted to test his skills against Orochimaru.

Orochimaru glanced at him and lowered his head slightly.

"Jiraiya, heh, do you want to die?"

"I do!" Jiraiya replied cheekily. "Orochimaru, are you planning to kill me?"

Orochimaru!

This was Orochimaru!

No matter how many times he thought about it, Jiraiya always felt something special when he faced him.

Even his tone of voice changed.

Orochimaru exuded a suffocating aura, speaking coldly, "Fine, if you want to die, I'll grant your wish!"

Buzz!  

Eyeshadow appeared on Orochimaru's face.

He emanated a different kind of energy, as if he had fused with nature itself.

Jiraiya's eyes widened in shock. "What the...!"

Whoosh!  

A tongue lashed out at Jiraiya, who dodged quickly, but his foot was caught, slamming him hard onto the ground.

"Sage Mode?"

Even Itsuki was stunned.

Orochimaru had Sage Mode?

Only a handful of people possessed Sage Mode: Hashirama Senju, Uchiha Itsuki, Naruto, Jiraiya...

But Orochimaru was definitely not on that list.

The reason Jiraiya had grown stronger with age, despite passing a ninja's peak years, was due to the power of Sage Mode.

"Heh heh, surprised, Itsuki?" Orochimaru grinned at him.

Seeing Uchiha Itsuki surprised was no small feat.

"That's right—it's Sage Mode!"

Without Sage Mode, he wouldn't have dared to intervene in this battle.

Kage-level?

A stray attack could end them at any time.

"Itsuki, let's fight!"

Orochimaru grinned. "Although I know I'm no match for you, don't underestimate me."

Itsuki responded calmly, "Orochimaru, I've never underestimated you. But I'm not your opponent."

"Hmm?"

Orochimaru frowned and turned his head.

Jiraiya climbed out of the ground, his face grotesque and ugly.

He, too, was emanating a strange energy.

Sage Mode!

The Toad Sage had arrived!

"Orochimaru!" Jiraiya grinned. "Stop thinking about fighting the Hokage. Let’s settle this between the two of us."

"You're so annoying, Jiraiya."

"Same to you, Orochimaru."

Boom!  

The two close friends clashed violently.

Both were Kage-level fighters with the power of Sage Mode, and their battle was truly formidable.

Among the Konoha Alliance, there weren’t many fighters of their caliber.

Itsuki took one glance and lost interest.

These two were evenly matched.

Victory wouldn’t come easily for either.

Let them duke it out!

Roar!  

At that moment, the Ten-Tails roared and charged forward again.

Itsuki's eyes turned cold as he formed a series of hand seals.

"Summoning Jutsu!"

Bang!  

Several massive figures appeared, glaring at the Ten-Tails.

The Three-Tails!

The Four-Tails!

The Five-Tails and Six-Tails!

A total of four tailed beasts.

Roar!  

The Ten-Tails hesitated briefly before its eyes locked on the four tailed beasts, practically drooling.

Obito almost burst out laughing.

Summoning tailed beasts in front of the Ten-Tails?

Are you serious?

It felt like a mouse playing bridesmaid to a cat.

If that’s the case, I won’t hold back.

Let’s eat!

Obito almost clasped his hands together to thank Uchiha Itsuki.

Roar!  

The Ten-Tails opened its mouth, releasing several chains to bind the four tailed beasts.

Bang!  

At that moment, a massive boulder was shoved into the Ten-Tails' mouth.

Ten-Tails: "..."

Obito froze.

Tobirama Senju!

Using Flying Thunder God, he appeared beside Itsuki, suspiciously asking, "Will this actually work?"

"Definitely!"

Itsuki nodded confidently. "Look, the Ten-Tails can't absorb anything now, can it?"

Tobirama’s mouth twitched.

Only Uchiha Itsuki could think of such a solution.

When the Ten-Tails opened its mouth to absorb the tailed beasts, Tobirama used Flying Thunder God to transport a giant boulder into its mouth, blocking it.

Why are you so brilliant?

Marking it with Flying Thunder God during battle?

Itsuki had been fighting the Ten-Tails for so long, marking it was child's play.

Roar!  

The Ten-Tails was furious.

It crushed the boulder with its jaws and opened its mouth again, releasing countless chains.

This time, it stared intently at Tobirama.

It wouldn't let another boulder stop it.

Like a person taking a deep breath only to choke on a rock, the feeling was unbearable.

But!

Another boulder appeared!

Larger than before, this one lodged directly in its throat.

The Ten-Tails gagged, its eyes rolling back.

"Nice!"

Itsuki turned to his new secretary and nodded approvingly.

Mabui formed seals. "Heavenly Transfer Jutsu!"

She teleported a massive boulder directly into the Ten-Tails' throat.

The Ten-Tails thrashed in agony, jumping and pounding the ground, trying to dislodge the boulder or swallow it.

"Everyone, attack!"

Seeing this, the other tailed beasts couldn’t hold back.

They roared and charged forward.

Want to eat us?

We’ll beat you to a pulp first!

The Three-Tails curled into a ball like a pill bug and rammed into the Ten-Tails, making it roll uncontrollably.

The Four-Tails leapt high and slammed down onto the Ten-Tails' stomach.

The Ten-Tails’ eyes nearly popped out.

It tried to spit out the boulder, but it was too large, lodged firmly in its throat.

The Five-Tails dashed forward, ramming it with brute force, sending the Ten-Tails sprawling.

Finally, the Six-Tails sprayed it with a blast of corrosive liquid, causing the Ten-Tails to writhe in pain.

The worst part was its inability to scream.

No matter how much it hurt, the blockage in its throat kept it silent.

The scene was almost heartbreaking to watch.

"Enough!"

Madara Uchiha’s cold voice rang out.

He appeared beside Obito, glaring at him. "Is this how you fight?"

Obito stubbornly replied, "It’s none of your business!"

"Get lost!"

Madara's eye twitched, barely resisting the urge to slap him.

Why are you being so arrogant?

My carefully laid plans are in shambles because of you!

And now you’re acting smug? I’ll kill you—believe me!

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 339: Kakashi and Obito

Madara Uchiha cast a sharp glare at Obito before leaping onto the Ten-Tails.

Obito hesitated briefly but followed onto the colossal beast.

*Gulp!*

The Ten-Tails’ body instantly changed, forming a fleshy cord that connected the two.

“What the—what is that?”

Itsuki's eyes widened. “A straw? No way! The Ten-Tails is actually siphoning nutrients from Madara and Obito! And—wait, plugged in there? What’s the flavor like?”

Madara: “…”

Obito: “…”

*Where was it plugged in?*

Staring at the ‘straw’ connecting them to the Ten-Tails, Madara spoke slowly, “Itsuki, I, Madara Uchiha, officially declare you the most shameless person alive.”

Obito looked at him sympathetically. “You’re just figuring this out?”

This is driving me insane!  

“Shameless? Me?” Itsuki looked at the two with a curious expression, a faint smile on his face. “I don’t know, you two have a pretty unique vibe going on. It’s like a mother nursing her child, isn’t it? But, hmm, which one of you is the ‘mom’? Who’s the ‘dad’? And who gave birth to that giant child? Or is it a son?”

Itsuki seemed genuinely tempted to pry the Ten-Tails’ legs apart for a closer inspection.

“Hmph!” Madara snorted coldly.

The Ten-Tails, still linked to him, roared furiously.

*“Roar!”*

Itsuki’s four subordinate Tailed Beasts seemed provoked, letting out simultaneous roars and opening their mouths wide.

Tailed Beast Bombs began to form in their mouths.

“Tailed Beast Bombs!”

*Boom!*

With an earth-shaking blast, four Tailed Beast Bombs launched toward the Ten-Tails.

*“Awoo!”*

The Ten-Tails howled, erupting with terrifying power. With a single massive slap, it swatted one bomb away.

As for the other three—

Obito’s Kamui teleported one of the bombs to another location.

“Useless!”

Watching their actions, Madara scoffed in disdain and deflected the remaining two bombs with his Rinnegan.

*Boom! Boom! Boom!*

The violent explosions shook the battlefield, narrowly missing the Leaf’s ninja forces.

Itsuki’s expression turned cold as he called out, “Where’s Hashirama Senju?”

“Here, here!”

Hashirama hurried over.

Tobirama gave him a strange look.

Why does my brother feel more like a sidekick or a comic relief character lately?  

Itsuki frowned. “Didn’t I tell you to keep an eye on Madara?”

“I did!” Hashirama replied helplessly. “But right now, I can’t beat him.”

Madara was incredibly strong—always had been.

He even dared to challenge meteors head-on with his True Thousand Hands technique.

If Hashirama had been at his peak, even Nagato wouldn’t have been a threat. A barrage of punches would have settled things.

But against his old friend, he felt powerless.

Orochimaru’s interference had left Madara in better condition than ever, restoring almost 90% of his peak power. And with the Rinnegan, he’d surpassed even that.

Hashirama, on the other hand, could only muster about 80% of his strength. Even with Sage Mode, he wasn’t a match.

It was frustrating.

The last time they teamed up with Itsuki, it was still a close fight.

Hashirama glanced at Tobirama.

Tobirama: “…”

Why does it feel like my brother is mocking me?  

Must be my imagination. Hashirama wouldn’t do that…right?  

Itsuki waved dismissively. “Fine, I get it. We’ll take him on together. The Tailed Beasts will provide support from behind. Let’s finish this. Ordinary ninjas should step back. This is a battle of titans!”

Madara: “...Do you really think so little of me? Discussing this right in front of me?”

Itsuki shrugged. “Would it make a difference if we talked behind your back? It’s still going to be the three of us fighting.”

“Oh, I see now!” Itsuki’s eyes lit up mischievously as he observed Madara’s displeasure. “Are you upset because I’m chatting with Hashirama? Don’t be jealous. You’re a grown man; act like it.”

Madara: “...Get lost!”

“Let’s go!”

Hashirama shouted excitedly, thrilled at the prospect of battling his old friend once more. Sage Mode activated, he summoned his Wood Golem and charged.

“Wait for me! Don’t get yourself beat up alone!”

Itsuki followed, infusing his Susano’o with Sage Mode for an extra edge.

Wood Golem + Sage Mode!

Susano’o + Sage Mode!

Versus Madara’s Rinnegan!

“Let’s fight!”

Madara laughed maniacally as he added Susano’o armor to the Ten-Tails, preparing for an all-out clash.

*Boom! Boom! Boom!*

The collision of titanic forces disrupted every other battle on the field.

The Leaf’s forces began to retreat in an orderly fashion, though many still fought where necessary.

Some were simply stunned.

“What…what is this?”

Sasuke and Naruto stared, utterly dumbfounded.

Their confidence as strong ninjas evaporated. In the face of these three, would they even survive a single hit?

“Do you see now?”

Itachi, having sealed away a reanimated foe, approached the duo. “The world is vast, and your strength—though considerable—is far from the peak.”

The duo lowered their heads, chastened.

Itachi sighed. “That said, for your age, your achievements are extraordinary. Your potential for the future is limitless.”

“Really?”

Their eyes lit up with hope.

“Of course.”

Itachi smiled faintly. “Do you think the Hokage would place so much trust in you otherwise? Sending you to Mount Myoboku and having Jiraiya personally train you? Such opportunities are only given to those with immense potential.”

It was the truth.

Jiraiya’s strength was undeniable. A Sage capable of fighting Itachi or Fugaku, even against Susano’o.

--

“Look at this! Right now, because of the battle between Itsuki, Uchiha Madara, and Senju Hashirama, many other fights have stopped. However, the battle between Jiraiya and Orochimaru is still ongoing.”

The power that could reduce everything within hundreds of meters to rubble—if such a battle were to take place inside Konoha, it would be enough to obliterate the entire village.

“Alright!”

Naruto clenched his fists and declared loudly, “I’ll train hard! Next time, I’ll definitely help Brother Itsuki!”

“Heh, no need to wait for next time. This time, you can help!”

Itachi smiled and said earnestly, “Naruto, you also possess the power of a Sage. I hope for your assistance!”

“Brother Itachi, just tell me!” Naruto's eyes lit up with determination.

Sasuke, standing nearby, pouted in dissatisfaction.

“Whatever Naruto can do, I can do too!”

As the three-way battle raged on, its scope gradually expanded, and others began taking action as well.

Those who could accelerate the conclusion of their fights intensified their attacks. Those who couldn’t simply stopped fighting altogether.

Obito stood atop the Ten-Tails with a look of helplessness on his face. In the end, he decided to leave the beast behind and let Uchiha Madara, Itsuki, and Senju Hashirama handle each other.

After all, he was the commander of his side. He needed to observe the other battlefields.

But then—

“Obito!” Kakashi's gaze was conflicted as he looked at him.

“Kakashi, what do you want to say?” Obito asked coldly, his eyes filled with malice.

“Why? Why are you doing this?” Kakashi asked painfully. “You used to love life and the village so much.”

“Why?” Obito laughed loudly, then his expression twisted with resentment. “Because you betrayed me! You abandoned Rin!”

Kakashi’s face turned pale.

Rin had died at Kakashi’s hands.

The Mist ninja had sealed the Three-Tails inside Rin, intending for it to wreak havoc upon reaching Konoha. Rin, knowing this, had deliberately impaled herself on Kakashi’s Chidori to prevent the disaster.

Although Obito knew the truth, he couldn’t accept it. To him, it was still Kakashi’s incompetence that caused her death. Before Obito had “died,” he had entrusted Rin to Kakashi, who had sworn to protect her. Yet it hadn’t been long before she was gone.

Her death broke Obito. Unable to accept a world without Rin, he sought to enact the Eye of the Moon Plan to create a perfect world where Rin could exist again.

Even though he could revive Rin now, it wouldn’t change the cursed reality of this world. Only the Eye of the Moon could create a flawless existence, where even Kakashi would be reborn anew.

“Kakashi, step aside. If you feel even a shred of guilt for Rin, join me,” Obito demanded coldly, extending his hand.

“Never!” Kakashi sighed, his gaze steeling. “Obito, stop this. Rin wouldn’t approve of what you’re doing.”

Obito laughed maniacally, his expression becoming unhinged. “Kakashi, you’re still the same—just as hypocritical as ever!”

His eyes, devoid of warmth, transformed into the Mangekyō Sharingan, with the Rinnegan locked on Kakashi.

“Since you’ve made your choice, don’t blame me for what happens next.”

Kakashi removed his headband, revealing his Sharingan. Obito’s face twisted in anger as he thought of his own eye.

“Kakashi!” Obito roared. “Tell me—where is my Sharingan?”

Obito had once taken back his Sharingan from Kakashi, only to discover it wasn’t the same one. His plan for dual Kamui had failed.

Caught off guard, Kakashi explained apologetically, “Sorry, it was taken from me.”

He meant that someone had overpowered him and stolen the Sharingan. That someone had, in fact, been Obito himself. However, because of Itsuki’s interference, the eye had been swapped out beforehand.

In hindsight, Kakashi understood that Itsuki must have foreseen Obito’s plans and acted to prevent them. And honestly, losing the Sharingan had been for the best. A standard Sharingan already pushed Kakashi to his physical limits, while a Mangekyō would have been even more burdensome.

Besides, leaving the Mangekyō in Obito’s hands would only have made him more dangerous.

Still, Obito perceived the situation differently.

“Taken? Who dared take it?” he snarled, furious. “Kakashi, my eye—my eye! You failed to protect Rin, and now you’ve lost my eye too. What a worthless failure!”

Kakashi stared at him incredulously. If Obito only knew he was the one who had taken it...

“Enough. I’m done with a failure like you,” Obito sneered, his tone dripping with disdain. He took a deep breath, then opened his eyes wide.

“Kamui!”

Space distorted as enormous shuriken shot out, each attack imbued with the power of dual Mangekyō Sharingan.

Kakashi, however, used his Sharingan to track the trajectory of every assault and evaded them all.

Then, in a sudden burst, Obito appeared behind Kakashi, reaching for him.

“Not good!” Kakashi’s pupils constricted. Obito’s strength had grown far beyond their last encounter.

“This is the end, Kakashi!” Obito declared as his hand drew closer, aiming to drag Kakashi into his unique Kamui dimension.

Just as Kakashi braced for the inevitable, a powerful voice boomed:

“Leaf’s Strong Whirlwind!”

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 340: Which Side Is That Dog Six Paths On?*

Obito, who was about to engage Kakashi, phased his body again.

A heavy foot passed through him.

After the failed kick, the attacker quickly grabbed Kakashi and pulled him away.

“Guy!”

Seeing the newcomer, a flicker of joy flashed in Kakashi's eyes.

As expected!

At critical moments, the one he could always rely on was Kai.

“Kakashi!”

It was none other than Might Guy. He nodded, his gaze fixed on Obito, who had failed his attack and was now slowly standing up. Guy spoke gravely, “I never thought… it would be Obito.”

His eyes were filled with disbelief.

How could he not recognize Obito?

In their generation, there wasn’t a single person who didn’t know of Obito. Even if someone hadn’t met him in person, they would have heard of his name.

Uchiha Obito, the most peculiar Uchiha.

Just like Itsuki now!

But the difference was clear—Itsuki was overwhelmingly strong, leaving people powerless to resist.

Obito, on the other hand, was such a weakling that it left people speechless.

Weakness aside, he always challenged the genius Kakashi!

Every time he lost, and every time, he would come back for another challenge!

Yet!

He wasn’t someone people hated.

Because Obito was an Uchiha who loved life and enjoyed helping the elderly and children.

Who would have thought he would don the mantle of Uchiha Madara, launch an attack of this magnitude against Konoha, and bring such destruction to the ninja world?

Unbelievable!

Obito turned, glaring at Kakashi and Guy. His eyes were especially cold as they locked onto Guy.

His face bore traces of pain.

He vividly remembered being brutally kicked by this guy.

More than once!

Even his candy had been kicked away.

Though that piece of candy almost choked him, sweet things shouldn’t be wasted like that!

“Obito, stop this!”

Kakashi pleaded, “If Rin were alive, do you think she’d want to see any of this happen?”

“Shut up, Kakashi!”

Obito roared with fury, “You have no right to mention Rin. You murderer! Murderer! You killed Rin!”

“Kakashi!” Guy’s expression grew heavier. “Now’s not the time to solve this with words.”

Kakashi looked dazed.

First Rin, and now Obito. Would he have to deal with him personally too?

“Kakashi!”

“Snap out of it!”

Guy shouted, “This is a battlefield! Do you know how many comrades your hesitation will cost us? Open your eyes and see it clearly! Even Naruto and Sasuke—your students—are fighting on this battlefield. Do you want them to die here?”

Kakashi returned to his senses and sighed deeply. “I understand, Guy. Please lend me your strength!”

“Alright!” Guy grinned. “Now that’s the Kakashi I know!”

Sharingan Kakashi of the Hidden Leaf!

The Blue Beast of Konoha, Might Guy!

Once again, they joined forces!

“Let’s go!”

“Shadow Clone Jutsu!”

Kakashi created a clone, his hands crackling with lightning as he charged at Obito.

Guy removed all his weights and opened the first of the Eight Gates—the Gate of Opening!

His speed and strength increased dramatically.

“Come on!”

Obito’s lips curled into a cold smile. “I’ll show you just how powerless you both are against me now.”

Now, he had truly reached Six Paths level.

His body had been modified with Hashirama’s cells!

One eye was a Mangekyō Sharingan, the other a Rinnegan!

Inside him lay a portion of the Ten Tails’ power.

Obito was essentially a unique fusion of Senju and Uchiha.

---

Meanwhile, in a void-like world.

Occasionally, a shadow flitted by.

There was no trace of life, almost transparent.

The world was suffocatingly silent.

At the center of this void sat a lone figure in a meditative posture, floating in mid-air.

Two horns adorned his head, and a necklace of magatama hung around his neck.

In his hand, he held a staff, and on his forehead was a third eye.

Several Truth-Seeking Orbs hovered protectively around him.

The Sage of Six Paths!

This place was part of the Pure Land!

Sensing something, he slowly opened his eyes.

Before him, a projection appeared on its own.

In it was none other than Uchiha Itsuki!

At this moment, Uchiha Itsuki was laughing maniacally, having transformed into the Fifth Mad Laughter of the Uchiha.

Even Madara, one of the original Four Mad Laughers, was rendered speechless by his madness.

The Sage of Six Paths sighed softly and muttered, “An existence outside the plan, rootless and aimless. This world was not meant to have him.”

He stared at Itsuki for a long while before saying faintly, “If he’s not meant to be, then he shall not be.”

With a wave of his hand, a strange force appeared and then vanished.

Afterward, his expression grew complex.

Everything in this world must remain under his control.

Uncertainty was dangerous and unwelcome.

His sons were like this.

His mother was like this.

Even his brother was the same.

Everything had to be within his grasp!

Uchiha Itsuki—a descendant of Indra who should not have existed but had now altered the course of the ninja world—needed to be erased!

---

“Hahaha!”

Itsuki laughed maniacally.

He stood beside Hashirama.

At this moment, the Susano’o-armored Buddha finally appeared before everyone.

A hundred-meter wooden giant clad in armor, brimming with Sage energy.

Itsuki and Hashirama stood within the crystal on Susano’o’s forehead.

Moreover, the Sage energy of Uchiha Itsuki and Senju Hashirama, both from Shikkotsu Forest, though not perfectly fused, did not repel one another.

Across from them!

Uchiha Madara glared at the two with envy.

The Susano’o-armored Buddha!

This was a sight he had once dreamed of.

He and Hashirama had spent their lives as friends and rivals, fully understanding each other’s strength.

It could be said that, without the other’s existence, either could have united the ninja world.

They were just that strong!

They had thwarted each other’s plans for a lifetime!

And yet!

It was because of each other that they never felt emptiness throughout their lives!

Their lives had meaning because of their rivalry.

Countless times, they imagined what would happen if their powers fused.

But every time they entertained the thought, a strange force stopped them from proceeding.

In his final battle, in the depths of despair, Madara had broken through that force and awakened the Rinnegan!

---

Even when he fully awakened the Rinnegan, he was already very old, but it didn't stop him from planning for the future.

This is the fusion of the powers of the Senju and Uchiha clans!

However!

He really wanted to fight side by side with Hashirama!

Now, Hashirama stood on the opposite side!

Damn it!

Damn it all!

Madara Uchiha's jealousy seemed to cause his eyes to evolve further.

Hashirama had actually joined forces with another Uchiha to fight against him?

Unforgivable!

Resolve ignited!

The wrath of a rival!

"Roar!"

The Ten-Tails roared ferociously and charged forward.

"First Hokage, let me handle this!"

Itsuki shouted, maneuvering a giant Buddha encased in Susanoo to counterattack.

He had long wanted to test this power!

Hashirama gave him a sidelong glance but remained silent.

He had figured it out.

Uchiha Itsuki's attitude was clear: when there was trouble, it was "First Hokage"; when there wasn't, it was just "Hashirama."

Obvious and unapologetic.

"Boom!"

Two colossal figures collided forcefully.

Then, the Ten-Tails was sent flying.

With the combined strength of Hashirama Senju and Itsuki Uchiha, the Ten-Tails was no match.

"Hmph!"

Madara Uchiha snorted coldly, commanding the Ten-Tails to rise again, his expression icy.

"Crack, crack!"

A series of cracks appeared in the Susanoo encasing the Ten-Tails.

Madara frowned deeply.

Was the gap this large?

He glanced at his hands, covered in cracks.

This was the limitation of Edo Tensei!

Being a reincarnated body, even though that Orochimaru fellow had restored much of his power, he was still far from his prime.

"Haha, you're no match!"

Itsuki laughed loudly and launched another attack.

Madara was pinned to the ground and relentlessly beaten.

Even as the Ten-Tails continuously shifted its form and struggled, it was all in vain.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Itsuki rained down powerful punches on the Ten-Tails with a flurry of attacks.

The Ten-Tails, desperate, abandoned its defense and tried trading injuries for an attack.

"Smack!"

Unfortunately, its hands were caught.

"Does that even work?"

Itsuki sneered and headbutted the Ten-Tails, driving its entire body into the ground.

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Itsuki followed up with fierce stomps, hammering the Ten-Tails into submission.

"Arghhhh!!!"

Madara was enraged.

As the so-called "Shura of the Ninja World," when had he ever suffered such humiliation?

And at the hands of a junior like Itsuki Uchiha!

"Clap!"

Madara brought his hands together and roared, "Wood Style: Deep Forest Emergence!"

"Boom!!!"

Massive trees surged forth, forcing Itsuki to retreat.

"What?"

Hashirama was dumbfounded.

"Madara, how do you know Wood Style?!"

"Idiot!" Itsuki rolled his eyes at him. "Isn't it obvious?"

"Obvious?"

Hashirama was puzzled. "Itsuki, you know why?"

"Of course!"

Itsuki pointed at the recently risen Madara and said, "His true name is Madara Senju Uchiha!"

Hashirama: "…"

What nonsense is this?

"Still don't get it?" Itsuki sighed and explained, "Madara is a hybrid, a mix of Senju and Uchiha. Now do you understand?"

Understand your nonsense!

I want to curse you out!

Hashirama held his head, utterly exasperated.

Itsuki looked at Madara with admiration. "It's truly astonishing. Who created you, the strongest hybrid in history? Oh right, you created Obito, didn't you? Makes sense now!"

"Itsuki Uchiha!"

Madara's voice was cold enough to freeze the air.

"What?"

"Hey!" Hashirama whispered. "Itsuki, even though he's our enemy, Madara was once a powerful figure of his era. Isn't this too disrespectful?"

"Disrespectful? Why?" Itsuki looked at Hashirama like he was an idiot. "Do you know how many people died because of the war he started? I can't even insult him a little?"

This simple question left Hashirama speechless.

Itsuki glared coldly at Madara. "For someone like him, even cursing his ancestors for eight generations wouldn't be too much. Trash."

Madara's face remained stoic, but his eyes were frosty. "Do you want revenge for them?"

"I'm already doing it!"

Itsuki roared, commanding his wooden construct to charge at Madara.

"Come and fight!"

Madara shouted, and the Ten-Tails charged again.

This time, the Ten-Tails was assisted by a massive wooden construct controlled by Madara, joining the assault.

The three colossal beings clashed once more.

...

A pair of Mangekyō Sharingan closely observed Itsuki's battle.

Itachi turned to Naruto. "Do you think you can do it, Naruto?"

"Of course! Absolutely!" Naruto's face was brimming with excitement.

"Itsuki, don't worry, I'm here to help!"

Everyone fell silent at these words.

Kid, all you're good for is sneaky side attacks at best.

"Don't worry?"

Where did you even get that idea?

"I'm joining too!"

Sasuke, not wanting to be left out, chimed in. "Saving Itsuki is my duty too."

"Alright, fine!"

Itachi glanced at Sasuke, a bit exasperated but didn't argue.

To be honest, he didn't want his little brother overusing his Mangekyō.

Even though Itsuki's research had nullified its side effects, the excruciating pain remained unbearable.

As for Sasuke's talk of saving… Well, just let the kid dream.

"Move out!"

With Itachi's shout, the group launched into action.

Naruto harnessed Kurama's power to form a massive Wind Style: Rasenshuriken.

Sasuke, wielding Susanoo, prepared a giant arrow imbued with Amaterasu's flames.

Itachi unleashed Yasaka Magatama.

"Boom!!!"

Following Naruto's instructions, they unleashed their attacks on Madara.

Coincidentally, at the same time, Itsuki and Madara were also preparing their ultimate moves.

Itsuki activated his Blood Jade.

Madara commanded the Ten-Tails to unleash a Tailed Beast Bomb.

Behind Itsuki, several Tailed Beasts also fired Tailed Beast Bombs at Madara.

"Boom!!!"

Multiple devastating attacks raced toward their targets.

However!

Mid-flight, something strange happened.

A mysterious force caused all the attacks to veer off course.

Naruto's group's attacks curved mid-air and headed straight for Itsuki.

The four Tailed Beast Bombs behind him also changed direction, targeting Itsuki.

"@#￥%!"

Itsuki was utterly dumbfounded.

What kind of betrayal is this?

So many spies among my own forces?

Madara's attack stayed on course, heading directly for Itsuki.

Itsuki's attack still aimed at Madara.

"What the hell?"

"Why is this happening?"

Everyone was stunned.

Had Naruto's team and the Tailed Beasts collectively defected?

Even Madara was baffled.

What just happened?

(End of Chapter)