321-325

*Chapter 321: Madara’s Revival!*

Thud!

Blood splattered everywhere.

Black Zetsu's expression froze at that moment.

Someone had pierced his body.

Though he was alive, he wasn’t human.

He was a unique product of chakra.

Attached to Obito, he aimed to control him.

Who would have thought someone would deliver a backstab at this critical moment?

Even as a special chakra creation, he wasn’t immortal.

He could be injured; he could die.

If he were invincible, he would have acted openly long ago, rather than waiting until now!

Behind Obito, a new eye controlled by Black Zetsu glared intensely at his assailant.

“How… how is it you?”

Black Zetsu’s voice was hoarse, filled with disbelief.

Tobirama Senju!

The fastest shinobi in history.

Wasn’t he supposed to be dealing with the Ten-Tails?

How could he have noticed this side and delivered a fatal blow at his most complacent moment?

This could mean only one thing:

Tobirama had never gone after the Ten-Tails; he’d been watching him the whole time.

Damn it!

Success was so close!

“Don’t look at me like that!”

Tobirama’s voice was calm as he said, “This was Hashirama’s order. He instructed me to watch Obito, and who would have thought it would lead to catching such a big fish.”

Hack, hack!

Obito coughed a few times, then started chuckling. “Black Zetsu, how does it feel? Haha, didn’t see that coming, did you? Looks like you were the one being outmaneuvered.”

“Shut up!”

Black Zetsu was truly enraged.

He was known only for reconnaissance, not for combat.

He had never believed anyone would focus on him.

What’s more, after Hashirama gained renown, Black Zetsu took every precaution with his appearance.

This time, he’d only shown himself because he was certain that Hashirama was at a distance, Obito’s chakra was nearly depleted, and the Ten-Tails was elsewhere.

And yet, he was still caught.

Gritting his teeth, Black Zetsu made his move.

Boom!

Several black rods flew through the air.

This time, Tobirama was prepared and swiftly dodged.

Taking this opportunity…

Black Zetsu forced Obito to quickly form hand seals.

The injury?

It didn’t matter!

Once the hand seals were complete, activating the power of the Rinnegan, Obito would die regardless.

As for his own wound…

He was a unique chakra creation, so even though Tobirama had injured him, it wasn’t enough to be fatal.

As long as he survived, he could recover over time!

Seeing this, others took action.

Minato Namikaze tore out the black rods and tried to intervene.

Kakashi Hatake kept slashing through White Zetsu, carving a path forward.

As for Tobirama, he was closing in rapidly.

However, Black Zetsu targeted him, hurling various objects to obstruct him: giant kunai, poisoned shuriken, and even explosive tags.

There were so many that, despite Tobirama’s willingness to endure injuries, he couldn’t reach Black Zetsu in time.

And where did all this come from…

The Kamui dimension!

Obito’s Kamui space was stocked with supplies for this battle.

In essence, Obito himself was a mobile armory.

If Obito and Konan teamed up, they could destroy a village with ease, more efficient than even Nagato.

Using all six billion explosive tags, Obito and Konan could level the entire shinobi world.

Don’t doubt it; if used strategically, it was entirely possible.

Everyone raced against time, taking swift actions.

Now…

It all came down to speed!

Finally…

Tobirama arrived a moment sooner.

Sacrificing half his body, he reached Obito.

“Die!”

Without hesitation, Tobirama aimed a strike at Obito’s head.

He intended to sever it.

Without a head, no jutsu could be cast.

Swish!

But alas…

Tobirama’s effort was in vain.

His kunai passed right through Obito’s neck.

Empty space.

Nothing was there.

“How can this be?”

Tobirama was dumbfounded.

“Heh heh!”

Black Zetsu laughed smugly. “Obito may be a fool, but he has some impressive abilities.”

Kamui!

Phasing through!

Obito had phased just his upper body, while his hands continued the hand seals, which were now complete.

“It’s over!”

Black Zetsu laughed out loud. “Madara, rise again!”

Hum!

With Black Zetsu’s laughter, Madara Uchiha’s body, pinned down by Hashirama, began to glow with a brilliant white light.

“Hmm?”

Hashirama was startled, sensing life radiating from Madara’s body and steadily increasing.

“He’s revived?”

Hashirama murmured, “So Tobirama failed to stop him?”

He’d assigned the fastest shinobi to monitor Obito, to strike Black Zetsu when it counted.

Hashirama had thought this backup plan solid.

Tobirama was competent anywhere you placed him.

Calm!

Steady!

Powerful, known as the greatest Mizukage.

Black Zetsu had already deployed nearly all available power; it shouldn’t have been enough to stop Tobirama.

Yet, the outcome was disappointing.

“Fine, let him revive if he must.”

Hashirama looked at Madara, who was becoming more alive by the moment, then turned toward Obito, raising a massive crossbow.

First, he’d eliminate one of his Rinnegan eyes.

“Watch out!”

"Black Zetsu let out a shocked cry and immediately activated Kamui again.

This time, he slipped right into the Kamui space.

Outside was too dangerous.

‘Running away so quickly,’ Itsuki muttered, standing where Black Zetsu had disappeared, his face dark.

‘Hahaha! Hahaha!’

At that moment, a burst of laughter echoed.

Uchiha Madara!

The aura of life surrounded him.

He had finally come back to life.

Of course...

His eyes were still blind.

Swish!

Itsuki's cold gaze fixed upon him.

Madara’s laughter vanished instantly, replaced by a sense of fear.

Without his eyes, he felt like a beast was staring him down.

‘Uchiha Itsuki! That's unfair!’

‘Where’s your honor? I’m just a blind man now; you can’t bully me!’

Swish!

Madara didn’t waste a second—he turned and ran.

‘Damn it! Shouldn’t have laughed just now.’

He’d forgotten that, despite being resurrected and stronger, his Rinnegan hadn’t returned—neither eye!

How could he possibly fight Uchiha Itsuki like this?

Fighting blind would just mean a beating.

‘Don’t run!’ Itsuki roared, chasing after him.

‘Uchiha Madara, you’re running? Aren’t you ashamed?’

‘Stop! Fight me to the death!’

‘“The Shura of the Shinobi World,” and this is all you’ve got?’

‘You coward, stand and fight!’ Itsuki yelled as he chased Madara.

The whole battlefield heard his shouts.

Instantly...

Countless eyes turned toward them.

Chasing him down?

Uchiha Madara was fleeing?

This was big news.

Even those fighting the Ten-Tails couldn’t help but turn back.

What kind of image had Madara held in their minds?

The title ‘Shura of the Shinobi World’ alone was enough!

Now he was being chased by Itsuki?

What a dramatic twist!

Especially Ōnoki—his neck was stretched long, wishing he could ask Orochimaru for some tips.

‘Pfft, stand and fight? I just came back to life—no way I’m going to die again right now!’

Madara cursed to himself.

This wasn’t like the original story, where he’d revived, taken a moment to feel his body, laughed maniacally, and then started decimating Tailed Beasts and ninja alike, showing off his power.

No. This time, he’d barely managed a laugh before Itsuki interrupted him, and now he was running for his life.

This felt very different from the original.

‘Lord Madara!’

A White Zetsu appeared along Madara’s escape route, holding a Rinnegan.

Obito had taken both Rinnegan from Madara but had only placed one in his own eye socket, hiding the other.

He simply couldn’t bear the power of both.

However...

White Zetsu had been keeping a close watch on Obito, planting White Zetsu spores on him long ago, so no matter where he hid the Rinnegan, they could find it.

‘Good!’

Madara was elated, stepped forward, grabbed the Rinnegan, and shoved it into his eye socket.

With the healing power flowing through him, he could now use this eye as normal.

Whoosh!

A massive arrow flew toward him.

Madara quickly dodged.

Itsuki, controlling Susano’o, was charging forward, shouting, ‘Prepare to die!’

‘No, I can’t fight!’

Madara gritted his teeth.

With only one eye, he was no match for Itsuki—that was certain.

So, once again, Madara started to run.

‘Damn Black Zetsu! Hurry and bring me the other eye!’

In the blink of an eye, they both disappeared from view.

Whoosh!

The space warped, and Obito, possessed by Black Zetsu, appeared.

At the moment, the Obito part of him seemed asleep, his eyes closed.

‘This body won’t hold up for long!’

Black Zetsu sneered. ‘But with Hashirama’s cells, I won’t die anytime soon.’

‘More importantly, I need to get this eye to Madara!’

But how?

Black Zetsu frowned.

Itsuki had locked onto Madara.

The moment he tried to head in that direction, Itsuki would attack relentlessly.

White Zetsu’s earlier delivery of the first Rinnegan had been pre-planned.

Now, delivering the second would be difficult.

It’d be disastrous if he didn’t get the eye to him and got taken down instead.

Meanwhile...

The Ten-Tails was roaring.

It was firing Tailed Beast Bombs continuously.

Unfortunately, the attack was repetitive and easy to read.

At the core, Hashirama Senju, Naruto, and Sasuke led the Shadow-level warriors to suppress the Ten-Tails.

‘Sage Art: Gate of the Great God!’

Hashirama, now in Sage Mode, used a powerful technique.

Whoosh! Whoosh!

Numerous torii gates fell from the sky, restraining the Ten-Tails’ limbs completely.

The Great God Gate, after all, was developed specifically to counter Tailed Beasts.

‘It’s not over yet!’

Hashirama began forming hand seals again.

‘Bag of Infinite Hands Technique!’

Enormous hands erupted from the ground, slamming down on the Ten-Tails, forcing it to roar in agony.

‘Nice one, First Hokage!’

Naruto cheered, immediately gathering his strength.

He formed a massive Rasengan, enhanced by Nine-Tails chakra and sage power, his strongest Rasengan.

‘Take this!’

Sasuke stayed silent, quietly amassing his power as well.

‘I’m joining in!’ Hashirama shouted.

‘Top Buddha Technique!’

Boom!

A colossal Thousand-Armed Buddha appeared, its immense form becoming the center of attention.

‘True Several Thousand Hands!’ Hashirama shouted.

Countless fists rained down on the Ten-Tails.

‘Go!’

Naruto and Sasuke hurled their attacks.

‘We’re in too!’

Ōnoki, despite his heavy breathing, gritted his teeth and launched a Dust Release.

Pakura...

Mei Terumi...

The Fourth Raikage...

Darui...

Kakuzu...

Sasori...

Deidara...

Everyone joined in with their strongest long-range attacks.

Although few in number, their collective power was significant.

The Ten-Tails couldn’t withstand so many attacks at once.

As they neared, the Ten-Tails struggled frantically under the Gate of the Great God.

One by one, the gates broke.

But the attacks were just moments away.

Its eyes filled with fear.

Boom!

Suddenly!

In an instant, the Ten-Tails vanished.

All of their attacks missed.

‘What?!’

Hashirama shouted, ‘The Ten-Tails… was it summoned away?’

‘How could that be?’

Everyone was stunned.

They’d gathered so much power that even the Ten-Tails couldn’t have withstood it.

And now, just as they were about to strike, it disappeared?

Summoned away?

Who could even control the Ten-Tails?

In that moment, one name crossed everyone’s minds.

Uchiha Obito!

It seemed he was capable of summoning the Ten-Tails.

Swish!

Tobirama appeared, his expression grim.

The Tobirama who had just been chasing the Ten-Tails was only a clone; this was the real one.

‘Uchiha Obito has disappeared.’

‘He vanished, too?’

Hashirama frowned. ‘Could Obito have summoned the Ten-Tails away?’

‘It’s possible.’

‘Where could they have gone?’

‘No idea. Likely a temporary retreat,’ Tobirama replied. ‘Itsuki is chasing Madara. I saw that Madara only has one Rinnegan; the other is with Obito. Itsuki doesn’t want Madara to get both, so he’s not giving him any chance.’

Everyone exchanged looks.

Though surprised that Madara was being chased, they were even more uncertain about what to do now.

Madara had run off.

The Ten-Tails was summoned away.

Obito had vanished.

Oh, and don’t forget Orochimaru—he surrendered.

In just a short time, the Fourth Great Ninja War seemed over.

What now, if it’s not over?

The enemies are all gone!

(The end of this chapter.)"

*Chapter 322: The Search*

After a brief silence, Tobirama Senju immediately began issuing orders.

"Do not stop for a second! We must accelerate the pace!"

"Mobilize every available force! Search for the whereabouts of the Ten Tails, Obito, and Madara Uchiha. Send out anyone who can go!"

"Clear the battlefield!"

"Tend to the wounded!"

"And be sure to tally all our remaining forces."

Everyone quickly scattered to their tasks. No one objected, and certainly, no one uttered the foolish idea of disbanding the Allied Shinobi Forces.

Hashirama Senju approached Tobirama, saying, "Is the battle truly over? Somehow, it doesn't feel real to me."

In the past, each battle with Madara had been a brutal solo ordeal, every encounter pushing him to his limits.

This time, things felt unexpectedly easy.

He felt a bit lost.

"Over? You're kidding yourself!" Tobirama glared at his older brother. "Have you forgotten the original purpose of this battle?"

"The purpose?"

"Exactly!" Tobirama sighed heavily. "The whole point of this war was to stop the Eye of the Moon Plan."

"That's right!"

"We failed, Hashirama," Tobirama replied with a sigh. "From a certain perspective, the Allied Shinobi Forces failed."

"We didn’t stop the resurrection of the Ten Tails, nor did we prevent Madara Uchiha’s revival."

"This battle looked like we had the upper hand, even driving Madara to flee, but in truth, we failed—and failed miserably."

Not only did they fail to stop their enemies, but both of the opponents' main goals were achieved.

The only slight relief was the defeat of Obito Uchiha.

However!

Once the nature of Kamui was understood, Obito's threat was considerably diminished.

As for the tens of thousands of White Zetsu...

In high-level battles, they made very little impact.

Watching Itsuki charge off in pursuit, Tobirama muttered, "Now, we can only hope Itsuki can finish Madara off, leaving him no time to merge his other Rinnegan."

He felt a pang of regret.

His strike toward Black Zetsu should have been aimed at Madara’s Rinnegan.

Had that Rinnegan been destroyed, Madara's revival would have been far less of a threat.

---

"Boom!"

"Bang, bang, bang!"

"Boom!!!"

Itsuki was furiously chasing Madara, occasionally launching arrows from Susano'o's massive crossbow.

Panting and weary, Madara fled relentlessly.

It was humiliating, but survival was all that mattered now.

One more death, and there would be no more resurrections.

Itsuki certainly wouldn’t give him another chance.

"Sizzle!"

Suddenly!

As Madara fled, his body trembled again.

"Damn it!" he cursed, deactivating Susano'o and then summoning it anew to continue his escape.

The previous Susano'o had been turned to stone.

Itsuki’s petrifying gaze could transform anything he looked at into stone.

So, as Madara fled within Itsuki’s line of sight, his Susano'o frequently turned to stone.

This forced Madara to repeatedly summon new Susano'o armor while also trying to avoid Itsuki's gaze.

"Black Zetsu, where are you?"

But in his flight, Madara was unable to contact Black Zetsu.

His pace was simply too fast, making it impossible for Black Zetsu to keep up.

"I need to find a way to shake Itsuki off!"

A dangerous glint shone in Madara’s single eye.

With only one Rinnegan, no longer in the form of Edo Tensei, his chakra was now finite.

Madara had been able to summon a standard Susano'o without eyes and a full Susano'o with one Rinnegan—a normal state.

But his current Susano'o was weaker than if he possessed two Rinnegan.

"Time is running out for me."

Glancing behind, Madara thought, Itsuki, how much of your power do you have left? I’ve at least been reanimated for a while. But you…

You’ve been fighting nonstop at full strength since the beginning.

Your reserves must be low by now, right?

With both wielding Rinnegan, Madara could gauge Itsuki’s chakra and strength.

Though considerable, it couldn’t be unlimited.

Madara's estimation was not entirely wrong.

Itsuki’s reserves were indeed low.

From the start, he had fought continuously, a battle even a god couldn’t withstand.

Fortunately, Itsuki had been cautious, conserving his strength as much as possible.

He even received healing and a power boost from Tsunade and Katsuyu midway.

Otherwise, he would have been exhausted long ago.

But now, his remaining strength was limited.

"Madara Uchiha, let’s see who lasts the longest!" Itsuki grit his teeth, catching a glimpse of Madara and activating his petrifying gaze once more.

Crack! 

Once again, a large section of Madara’s Susano'o turned to stone.

But, considering Madara's massive size, the petrification did not slow him much, and he continued to flee.

"Lord Madara, this way!"

Suddenly, a White Zetsu appeared ahead.

Madara's face lit up—finally, he had regrouped with White Zetsu.

"Swish!"

Madara continued in the direction White Zetsu pointed.

"Damn it!"

Itsuki cursed, pausing momentarily, and then stomped hard on White Zetsu.

Splat!

White Zetsu splattered into pieces.

Madara glanced back at him.

Impressive!

Taking time to stomp a single White Zetsu flat.

Itsuki scowled.

The White Zetsu were far too numerous.

Despite sending eighty thousand to fight the Allied Shinobi Forces, countless White Zetsu still remained in the area, scattered everywhere.

"Damn it!"

Itsuki cursed again, his gaze fixed firmly on Madara.

Madara would surely make his next move soon.

A moment’s distraction would be all he needed to escape.

Just as Itsuki suspected!

Suddenly, Obito appeared and launched a Kamui directly at Itsuki.

At that instant, Itsuki froze.

"No way!" Itsuki roared furiously.

But Obito vanished.

And Madara vanished as well.

Only Itsuki remained, standing there in a fury, shouting into the empty air.

Obito was under Black Zetsu’s control, and Itsuki understood that much. However, what he couldn’t accept was that Obito possessed a pair of Sharingan eyes capable of using Kamui, specifically the same Kamui that Kakashi once wielded.

Obito’s Mangekyo Sharingan granted him two Kamui abilities.

One allowed him to phase his body, making it intangible.

The other could affect objects within his line of sight.

Just moments ago, Obito’s Kamui passed through Susanoo and affected Itsuki directly, holding him back just long enough to allow Uchiha Madara the chance to escape.

But...

He was certain he’d taken Kakashi’s Sharingan and hidden it in a very secure location. How could Black Zetsu have found it?

How careless of him! He should have destroyed that Sharingan immediately.

And now, Black Zetsu had taken over Obito’s body, and Obito’s eyes held the Double Kamui ability!

This made dealing with him at least twice as difficult! Not to mention, Obito’s body was filled with Hashirama cells.

Could he possibly evolve his eyes into the Rinnegan?

Itsuki searched around for a while longer, but after confirming that he couldn’t locate either Uchiha Madara or Black Zetsu, he had no choice but to return to the Allied Shinobi Forces’ headquarters.

…

“Supreme Commander!”

Itsuki’s return was a huge morale boost for the headquarters, where the Allied Shinobi Forces were searching for both the Ten Tails and Obito.

His immense strength had shaken the entire shinobi world, making him a new “God of Shinobi” in the hearts of many.

Uchiha Itsuki! He didn’t have to do anything at all. Just by standing there, his presence alone filled the shinobi with fiery determination.

The strongest in the shinobi world.

The God of Shinobi and the Demon of the Shinobi World—those were legendary titles. Other than Onoki, almost no one had seen them in the past.

Now, Itsuki was standing right in front of them.

And not only that…

Itsuki’s power far surpassed that of both the God of Shinobi and the Demon of the Shinobi World.

Look at this: Uchiha Madara had just been revived, only to be driven off by Uchiha Itsuki in no time.

They felt pride and confidence with someone like him as their Supreme Commander.

Even if he was somewhat unconventional.

“Heh, you’re really popular!”

Among the Kage welcoming Itsuki, Mei Terumi chuckled softly.

The five Kage and Itachi from the Leaf Village stood as his welcoming committee.

This was the strongest team in history! “Hmph!”

Itsuki only let out a light snort, waved to the shinobi, and vanished.

Inside the Command Center.

Tobirama Senju looked up and asked, “Madara got away?”

“Yeah.”

Itsuki nodded, then threw himself into a chair.

Tsunade stepped forward immediately to start healing him and restoring his strength.

“Not necessary!”

Itsuki frowned.

Tsunade rolled her eyes.

Well, I think it’s unnecessary, too, but that person over there thinks it’s needed. Am I supposed to argue with him? Maybe you have the wrong idea about my level of courage.

“It’s very necessary!”

Tobirama said in a serious tone, “We don’t know when Uchiha Madara might strike again. As our strongest combatant, you need to be at your peak.”

“Fine.”

Itsuki rubbed his temples and asked, “Any leads on their whereabouts?”

“We’re conducting a thorough search. Don’t worry, they won’t escape.”

At that moment, Tobirama was confident.

The entire shinobi world was united, with all their power combined. There was no hiding from them.

The only issue was time.

“Madara’s been revived, and his power has increased significantly.”

Tobirama said in a serious tone, “Itsuki, tell me, can you beat him?”

“I haven’t fought him, so I’m not sure.”

Itsuki hesitated, then said, “But there’s a good chance I could win.”

Tobirama gave him a sidelong glance and, with a cold snort, said irritably, “You’re still holding back? Why? Don’t you understand the situation we’re in?”

Itsuki replied coldly, “I understand it better than you, so I don’t need you pointing fingers. Just focus on doing your job, Tobirama.”

Tobirama stared at him coldly and replied, “Are you still hiding things from us? Even now, you’re keeping secrets?”

“Hiding them because they don’t concern you.”

Itsuki glanced at Hashirama nearby and said, “The First Hokage can know, so I’ll discuss it with him later.”

Hashirama sighed and said, “Itsuki, just tell Tobirama too. It’s unsettling for me to know things alone.”

He was a great Hokage.

But his greatness was largely due to his strength.

Without his strength, there wasn’t much else to praise about Hashirama.

He was a kind person.

He was a real human being.

But!

As a leader, he didn’t really meet the standard.

Tobirama was the one who contributed the most to the Leaf Village.

Itsuki acknowledged that, too.

Still…

Hashirama’s strength alone had forged the Leaf Village, and no one could match that achievement.

No matter how great a leader, they would always be in his shadow.

Unless…

A leader emerged who could unite the entire shinobi world.

Otherwise, who could possibly stand as tall as Hashirama, who had brought peace to an age of chaos? Itsuki looked at both Hashirama and Tobirama, then shook his head again. “Sorry, I can’t trust you with this. If word gets out, the shinobi world would truly be doomed.”

Could he reveal things about the Sage of Six Paths?

Itsuki didn’t actually mind if the truth came out.

But the Sage of Six Paths was likely observing them.

If the Sage knew that Itsuki was aware of his existence, Itsuki would lose his chance for a surprise attack.

As for the fact he was holding back, many had guessed it already. Whether he confirmed it or not was inconsequential.

“Itsuki…”

“Big brother!” Tobirama held up a hand, stopping Hashirama from saying anything further. He calmly replied, “If he doesn’t want to say, then let it be. I trust he has his reasons. We’ll just focus on our tasks.”

“Huh?”

Everyone was shocked by his response.

Unbelievable! Did Tobirama just say that? Did he say he trusts Uchiha Itsuki? All the people present—members of the Akatsuki, the Kage, the top shinobi from each village, including Jiraiya and Darui—were well aware of what Itsuki was like.

And Tobirama, so calm and rational, trusted him?

A Senju trusted an Uchiha…

Many felt the world had truly gone mad.

Would a mouse be the maid of honor at a cat’s wedding next? With a cold snort, Tobirama replied, “I make my own decisions based on what I know. No external factor will sway my judgment.”

“Well said!”

Itsuki gave Tobirama a thumbs-up and said, “Tobirama, I didn’t misjudge you. You’re impressive. I’m very pleased. Here’s an idea: after the war ends, why not stick around through Edo Tensei? Stay in the shinobi world and help it develop. What do you think?”

Tobirama ignored him entirely.

What, he couldn’t even rest in peace after death?

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 323: The Valley of the End*

Uchiha Itsuki's words were met with Tobirama Senju's scorn.

"Now that I've been revived, there's no choice but to serve you for now. But honestly, you expect a Senju like me to work for an Uchiha? Think again. That's just not happening."

If it weren't for some lingering loyalty, he would have ascended already.

Itsuki tilted his head at Tobirama, "You seem to have a lot on your mind?"

If Tobirama didn't watch himself, Itsuki wouldn’t hesitate to give him a piece of his mind, Hokage or not.

"Nothing!" Tobirama quickly denied, knowing not to argue with someone as unpredictable as Itsuki, who he saw as downright insane for an Uchiha.

"We’ve already scouted most areas!" Tobirama signaled to a nearby ninja.

The ninja unrolled a map of the ninja world with numerous marked locations, including the Hidden Leaf Village.

Itsuki looked over the map. "Have we checked Konoha?"

"No!" Tobirama pondered. "Are you suggesting he's hiding right under our noses?"

The ninja alliance's headquarters was close to Konoha, and it had indeed been searched.

"No," Itsuki replied, shaking his head. "But to Madara, Konoha is a special place. He must know we’ll find him sooner or later. He’s likely chosen a location for his final stand."

"Final stand?" Tobirama repeated, looking toward Hashirama.

"Why are you looking at me?" Hashirama asked, baffled.

Tobirama sighed. It had to be his brother. Madara’s obsession was undoubtedly focused on two things: his brother and Hashirama himself.

So if Madara had abandoned hiding, he’d be in a place with deep meaning.

Tobirama's gaze settled on a spot on the map.

"The Valley of the End!"

"Send scouts there immediately!" Tobirama ordered Shikaku.

"Yes!" Shikaku’s expression was complex. Was Itsuki thinking like Madara? At the Valley of the End, the scouts found Madara sitting openly atop his statue, unhidden.

"Retreat!" the lead scout ordered, trembling.

"Tell Hashirama I'm waiting," Madara’s calm voice echoed.

The scouts shivered, hurrying away. Madara hadn't paid them any mind, his gaze fixed on Hashirama’s statue.

---

Itsuki gave a disdainful snort and prepared to leave.

"Hold on!" Tobirama called out. "Itsuki, you can't rush into this."

Itsuki chuckled, "Tobirama, against someone at that level, what else can we do but charge?"

Gritting his teeth, Tobirama replied, "Let my brother assess the situation first."

The others were silent, admiring Tobirama’s cold but calculated approach. Few would think to send Hashirama in first, yet as the God of Shinobi and the First Hokage, Hashirama had long commanded respect and stability.

Itsuki stared intently at Tobirama. "No need to hold back. We'll go together—me, Hashirama, Naruto, and Sasuke."

Turning to the others, he said, "You’ll support from the sides. Minato, Tobirama, you back us up as well."

With his Rinnegan activated and at Six Paths power, he was far beyond the average Kage level; numbers meant little.

"I can help too!" Deidara protested.

Itsuki dismissed him, "Your ‘Number 18’ won’t make much difference."

Deidara went silent, unnerved at how Itsuki had so easily called out his strongest move.

"Commander!" Shikaku spoke up. "You handle the battle; I have a new strategy that might actually support you."

"Oh, I’m interested!" Itsuki laughed.

"Don’t look down on us!" Tsunade continued healing Itsuki, "Or would you rather wait days to recover without me?"

"Thank you, Lady Tsunade," Itsuki smiled, knowing it would take him several days on his own to recover to full strength. But Tsunade was using her own chakra to restore him.

"We'll take you there," Tobirama said. "Stay here and recover to your peak."

Itsuki closed his eyes, focusing on his recovery as Tsunade and other medical ninjas accelerated his healing. To aid further, Tsunade summoned the Slug Sage from Shikkotsu Forest.

---

With a flash of chakra, Hashirama appeared on his statue.

Across from him, Madara sat on his own statue in crimson layered armor, holding the Uchiha fan emblazoned with flame motifs. When he saw Hashirama, Madara grinned widely.

“Hashirama, you’re finally here. I’ve been waiting a long time.”

“Madara, stop this!”

Senju Hashirama spoke the same words as always.

Uchiha Madara could barely be bothered to respond.

What a load of crap.

At this point, do you think I could stop?

“Hashirama, do you remember that battle back then?”

With that, Hashirama was pulled into the whirlpool of memories.

That battle was intense.

Both of them fought to the death, fully intent on killing the other.

In the end, Senju Hashirama won.

Who would’ve thought that Uchiha Madara still had a trick up his sleeve?

Not only did he absorb part of Hashirama’s power, awakening the Rinnegan, but he also laid the groundwork for something much bigger in the future.

“Madara, this time, I will stop you!”

Hashirama’s tone was resolute.

“Hashirama!”

Madara shook his head. “Do you really think you’re still my match now?”

His eyes opened, revealing the Rinnegan.

Both eyes now bore the Rinnegan.

At this moment, Uchiha Madara had reached his peak.

And beyond that—

He not only had the Rinnegan, but also the power of Wood Release.

“Hmph!”

Hashirama snorted, unleashing an intense wave of chakra.

“Oh?”

Madara raised an eyebrow. “Your power…”

“I may not be at my peak, but I’m close enough,” Hashirama replied calmly. “With their support, Madara, you stand no chance.”

As he spoke, Naruto and Sasuke appeared at Hashirama’s side.

Both of them were a bit irritated.

They’d gained immense power, yet compared to Hashirama and Madara, they still fell short.

It was infuriating.

But too bad.

This power wasn’t really theirs to begin with; it was a gift, so there was no choice but to grit their teeth and endure.

“How did you manage this?”

Madara looked astonished.

The Reanimation Jutsu container that held their power had its limits.

How could there be a container this strong?

Could they have used Uchiha Itsuki as a container? Impossible!

“That’s none of your business.”

Hashirama sighed. “Madara, you’re alive again now. You could join Itsuki’s efforts, unite with him to create the ideal ninja nation. The other villages are even on board.”

“Ha! Hahaha!”

Uchiha Madara laughed out loud. “An ideal nation?”

“Hashirama, have you forgotten? We already tried to build one—Konoha. Wasn’t that our vision? And what happened?”

“The moment you died, war broke out, and our ideal nation shattered.”

Hashirama couldn’t help but argue, “This time is different.”

“How is it different?”

Madara scoffed. “People are selfish. Even if the other villages fear Uchiha Itsuki’s power and temporarily merge with the Hidden Leaf, as soon as he dies, war will erupt again. This time, it’ll be even fiercer, consuming everyone.”

Hashirama had no comeback.

Because it was true.

Once, he thought he had done enough.

Not only had he stopped the war, but he’d also distributed the tailed beasts to prevent further conflict.

And what happened?

The moment he died, wars became even more brutal, and countless smaller villages were erased from existence.

“Enough talk!”

Sasuke’s cold voice cut in.

He opened his eyes slowly.

One eye was the Mangekyo Sharingan, the other the Rinnegan.

“First Hokage, let’s end this with Uchiha Madara. He’s an unstable threat, and after he’s gone, I believe Big Brother Itsuki can create the ninja world we’ve all been hoping for.”

“Exactly!”

Naruto cracked his fists, his body enveloped in Kurama’s chakra, his eyes in Sage Mode. “First Hokage, just because you couldn’t do it doesn’t mean Itsuki can’t. We all believe in him.”

“Sigh…”

Hashirama sighed, feeling helpless.

What could he say?

Although he bore no prejudice against the Uchiha,

Still—

Was Uchiha Itsuki a normal ninja?

Even among the Uchiha, a clan known for producing formidable warriors, he was one of a kind.

“Well said, Hashirama!”

Uchiha Madara laughed. “Hurry up and end me so you can begin your own era.”

“In that case, let’s fight!”

Boom! Boom! Boom!

“The battle has started!”

Itsuki’s eyes snapped open as he turned to Tsunade. “Hurry, I have to get there now!”

“Keep it down!”

Tsunade snapped. “Itsuki, this world isn’t just yours. This is all of our world. Don’t think you have to carry everything yourself. We all have reasons to sacrifice for the ninja world!”

“I’m not asking you to sacrifice yourselves, I just… Never mind.”

Itsuki shook his head, frustrated. “Katsuyu, couldn’t you just help me top off my chakra on the way there?”

The slug on his shoulder sighed. “Itsuki, do I need to remind you how fast your Flying Thunder God Jutsu is? Do you really think I could restore much chakra in that time?”

Itsuki turned his gaze to a woman nearby. “Yugito, remember what I told you?”

“Huh?”

Yugito looked surprised. Then she gasped, “Are you really going to do it?”

“Yes.”

Itsuki nodded, a bit helpless. “I need more power—far more power. So, I have to sacrifice you.”

“It’s hardly a sacrifice.”

Yugito’s expression was complex as she murmured, “I just… I never thought it’d end up like this…”

“Sorry.”

“Sigh…”

Yugito let out a resigned sigh and took a steady step towards Itsuki.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

A massive wooden giant roared, throwing a punch, which was blocked by Susano’o’s massive sword, only for another slice to follow.

On one side, another giant Susano’o slashed its sword toward it.

Elsewhere, a massive Nine-Tails snapped at the Susano’o in front of it, shielding the wooden giant.

Thud!

After trading blows, the four of them fell back.

It was clear that Uchiha Madara was on the losing end.

With Hashirama’s enhanced power, he was almost Madara’s equal, and with Naruto and Sasuke assisting, they were overwhelming him.

“Heh, this is what I wanted.”

Madara chuckled, forming hand seals at lightning speed.

Roar!

Another wooden giant appeared.

Susano’o became armor that enveloped it.

A Susano’o-armored Buddha!

Hashirama froze. “You still have Sage power left?”

Madara’s Sage powers came from absorbing his strength.

After such a prolonged battle, was he still not drained?

If he weren’t reanimated, his power would have run dry long ago.

“Why’s that surprising, Hashirama?”

Madara laughed. “Don’t forget, I could cultivate White Zetsu, gather all the tailed beasts, and wield the Ten-Tails.”

“If I set my mind to it, there’s nothing I can’t do!”

As he spoke, one giant tailed beast after another appeared.

The One-Tail Shukaku!

The Three-Tails Isobu!

The Four-Tails Son Goku!

The Five-Tails Kokuo!

The Six-Tails Saiken!

The Seven-Tails Chomei!

The Eight-Tails Gyuki!

The Nine-Tails Kurama!

Except for the Two-Tails, all the tailed beasts appeared before them in unison.

“No way…”

Everyone was left dumbfounded.

End of Chapter

*Chapter 324: Group Battle!*

“All… all of the Tailed Beasts are here?”

Even Hashirama Senju was stunned.

Seeing eight out of the nine Tailed Beasts together was truly a spectacular sight. Back then, Hashirama had captured all the Tailed Beasts and distributed them to different villages, hoping this would balance their power and prevent more wars.

But—

This didn’t mean that Hashirama had captured all the Tailed Beasts himself. For instance, Shukaku, the One-Tail, had always belonged to the Sand Village. And why was the Eight-Tails here? Hadn't it been rendered unusable by Uchiha Itsuki’s trickery?

What’s more, at the level of battle Hashirama and his peers fought, even the mighty Nine-Tails had minimal effect. Was it really worthwhile for Madara to summon these eight Tailed Beasts?

“Heh heh, Hashirama, don’t you get it?”

Madara Uchiha laughed heartily, “Are you surprised the Eight-Tails is usable? Wrong. Uchiha Itsuki’s backup plan might work on others, but to me, it’s nothing.”

Hashirama frowned. “Then why don’t you…”

“Why don’t I execute the Eye of the Moon Plan?” Madara’s laughter continued. “Because it’s not yet time. I want you all to witness me carrying out the Eye of the Moon Plan.”

“Arrogant!”

Sasuke shouted, his Sharingan spinning.

Swish!

He swapped places with Madara’s flame-patterned fan, striking toward Madara.

Clang!

With one casual grasp, Madara caught Sasuke’s sword.

“The Kusanagi Blade?”

Madara looked at the sword, then coldly fixed his gaze on Sasuke. “So this is your Rinnegan ability, right? Swapping places? Impressive, but once I’m prepared, it’s useless.”

Boom!

A surge of powerful energy radiated from Madara, making Sasuke grunt in pain.

Then Madara summoned his fan, which flew back into his hand as he swung it fiercely at Sasuke.

“Sasuke!”

Naruto shouted, transforming into a yellow flash and racing toward Madara, his extreme speed forcing Madara to abandon his attack on Sasuke.

“Hmph!”

Madara snatched Naruto’s Rasengan, absorbing it, then backhanded a punch to Naruto’s face.

Though protected by the Nine-Tails' chakra, Naruto was still knocked back. But—

As he flew back, Naruto used the Nine-Tails' chakra to form a large hand, pulling Sasuke to safety.

“Madara!”

A booming voice resounded.

Hashirama was here!

Riding atop a massive Buddha statue, he moved forward with rumbling footsteps.

“True Several Thousand Hands!”

Rumble!

A barrage of fists rained down.

Not only Madara but all the Tailed Beasts were within Hashirama’s attack range. He aimed to wipe them all out in one fell swoop.

“Hashirama, you’re too naive!”

Madara sneered, activating his Susano’o.

The towering hundred-meter-tall Susano’o sprang forward toward the Buddha.

Simultaneously—

The other Tailed Beasts opened their mouths, releasing a colossal Tailed Beast Bomb in unison.

Boom!

Madara charged ahead, shattering countless giant fists with brute force, stopping the Buddha statue in mid-air.

Crash!

Then, the Tailed Beast Bomb collided with the Buddha statue, shattering it.

“Impossible!”

Hashirama exclaimed in disbelief.

His True Several Thousand Hands technique had always been unbeatable, yet today, it was shattered with ease.

This marked the first time True Several Thousand Hands had been broken.

“Hashirama, you probably thought these Tailed Beasts were useless against you, didn’t you?”

Hashirama suddenly burst into laughter. “Now, I’ll show you the power of these Tailed Beasts.”

As Madara spoke, the Tailed Beasts sprang into action, forming yet another set of Tailed Beast Bombs.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

One after another, these bombs flew toward Hashirama, Naruto, and Sasuke.

“Ha!”

Hashirama made a hand seal, summoning an arm of wood from the ground, crushing a Tailed Beast Bomb with it.

Following suit—

Naruto used the Nine-Tails' tails to smack another Tailed Beast Bomb away, while Sasuke’s Susano’o swatted a bomb aside.

But—

While the three managed to deflect three of the bombs, several others were still hurtling toward them. They quickly intervened again to block the incoming Tailed Beast Bombs.

By now, Madara had already charged forward, crashing into Hashirama’s wood golem and sending it flying.

The Nine-Tails took a brutal kick, while Sasuke was struck by a remaining Tailed Beast Bomb.

Each of the three took on two bombs, but one more remained, which hit Sasuke directly.

“Again!”

Madara roared.

The Tailed Beasts started to form more Tailed Beast Bombs.

“Stop them!”

Sasuke shouted, charging forward.

“Your opponent is me!”

Madara sneered, blocking Sasuke’s path.

“Get out of my way!”

They immediately clashed.

Hashirama and Naruto also rushed forward.

Meanwhile, the Tailed Beasts had completed their next round of Tailed Beast Bombs.

“Fire!”

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

The bombs launched.

“Damn it!”

Hashirama cursed softly.

There were so many Tailed Beast Bombs; it was nearly impossible to block them all.

The Tailed Beasts Madara had summoned were essentially being used as colossal cannons.

This time, after the tailed beasts fired their Tailed Beast Bombs, they didn't stop.

Each beast launched its own attacks, all aimed at Hashirama and his team.

The One-Tailed Shukaku used sand to obscure the trio’s vision while infusing it with a powerful sealing technique. Although this wasn’t enough to seal Hashirama’s team entirely, it served as an effective hindrance.

The Three-Tailed Isobu, like a rolling wheel, charged straight at the Nine-Tails.

“Bam!”

The Nine-Tails raised its hand to block but still got pushed back from the impact.

The Four-Tailed Son Goku opened its mouth, unleashing an endless barrage of fireballs at Hashirama's wooden golem.

The extreme heat made even Hashirama’s expression change.

There was no denying it—Son Goku’s fire-based powers were a natural counter to his.

Under normal circumstances, he’d just brush off the Four-Tails as an easy opponent.

But now…

Madara was there, along with the other seven tailed beasts.

He couldn’t afford to be careless.

“Ha!”

Hashirama shouted as he created a forest of trees to clash directly with Son Goku’s fireballs.

Only Hashirama could do something like this; any other person wouldn’t stand a chance. He was the only one with Wood Release, after all; Yamato’s Wood Release was far weaker.

The Five-Tailed Kokuo let out a deep roar and charged forward.

With every step, the ground trembled.

This single tailed beast’s charge alone was like a stampede.

“Boom!”

The heavy impact sent Sasuke flying.

Whoosh!

Just then, a shadow flickered.

The Six-Tailed Saiken!

It softened and elongated its body like a snake, wrapping itself tightly around Sasuke.

In just a single instant.

“Bang!”

Madara seized the opportunity and struck Sasuke down with a punch.

“Zzzzzz!”

At that moment, the Seven-Tails, Eight-Tails, and Nine-Tails attacked simultaneously.

Each of them gathered a Tailed Beast Bomb in their mouths and fired them fiercely.

“Boom boom!”

Sasuke’s Susanoo was covered in cracks.

Madara lunged at Sasuke again.

“Get lost!”

Naruto yelled as the Nine-Tails opened its mouth and bit at Madara.

The Three-Tails that had just rushed at Naruto had already been kicked away.

“Roar!”

The ground shook again as Kokuo charged at Naruto.

“Get lost!”

Naruto was furious, and the Nine-Tails’ nine tails all spread out like whips, thrashing wildly.

“Bang!”

The One-Tail was struck and flung aside.

The Three-Tails was smacked away.

The Four-Tails, Five-Tails, and Six-Tails all suffered attacks as well.

But!

“Clap!”

A large hand reached out and grabbed one of the Nine-Tails’ tails.

Madara's expression was cold. “Don’t get cocky, Nine-Tails brat!”

“Boom!”

“Bam!”

With his strength, Madara swung the Nine-Tails around, smashing it hard against the ground.

The other tailed beasts quickly got back on their feet, launching another round of attacks.

Under Madara’s command, the eight tailed beasts began to dominate the battle against Hashirama’s team.

This infuriated Naruto and Sasuke immensely.

They were strong!

These tailed beasts were nothing in their eyes—just oversized pets they could grab with ease.

But now they were being pushed this far.

They felt humiliated!

Angered, they shouted and charged forward again.

Hashirama followed close behind.

The clash resumed, with both sides using every skill they had.

However…

No matter how hard Hashirama and his team tried, they couldn’t completely suppress Madara.

To ordinary people, the tailed beasts were moving disasters.

But to Hashirama and his team, they were like oversized cats, easily subdued.

Yet…

Hashirama never expected the tailed beasts’ combined power to be this formidable.

Especially the Nine-Tails.

This beast had barely stopped firing Tailed Beast Bombs.

“It’s about time to end this!”

Madara smirked coldly, clasping his hands together.

“Boom!”

As white smoke billowed, the massive Ten-Tails appeared with an overwhelming aura.

“How is this possible?”

Hashirama was stunned. “Weren’t the tailed beasts already separated? How is there still a Ten-Tails?”

“Thanks to Uchiha Itsuki!”

Madara laughed. “He gave me the idea to separate the tailed beasts from their chakra.”

“The Two-Tails left a portion of its chakra to replace itself, which the Ten-Tails absorbed.”

“The Nine-Tails’ jinchuriki retained chakra, so even though the beast itself was extracted, the host survived.”

“So, I had each tailed beast separate a portion of its chakra to revive the Ten-Tails!”

Hashirama’s jaw clenched.

Uchiha Itsuki, you’re something else!

Even when you’re not around, your influence is everywhere.

“Oh, and I have you to thank, Hashirama!”

Madara said suddenly. “Without your cells, the tailed beasts wouldn’t have recovered so quickly after losing their power.”

Hashirama was speechless.

Great!

So even I played a part in this.

“Summoning all these helpers… Is it really worth it? Just a bunch of weaklings.”

Naruto shouted, “When Itsuki gets here, he’ll knock them all flying!”

“Hm?”

Hashirama paused.

That’s right!

They still had Uchiha Itsuki.

However…

Madara knew that once Uchiha Itsuki arrived, the tailed beasts would be rendered ineffective.

It was already difficult enough to handle the three of them, and one more powerful ally would break the deadlock.

So…

The question was…

What was Madara trying to achieve?

Hashirama’s brow furrowed as he looked around, noticing Tobirama.

Unfortunately…

Tobirama’s brow was also tightly knit.

He didn’t understand either!

What was Madara’s plan?

Was this all he had?

If it was, why not activate the Infinite Tsukuyomi sooner? Why keep fighting Hashirama?

If he had more power, what could it be?

“Brother, no matter what power he has, you must end this battle quickly!”

Tobirama’s voice echoed in Hashirama’s ears. “If we can kill Madara, all his plans will be meaningless.”

“Well said!”

Hashirama cast aside any lingering sympathy, his gaze toward Madara now filled with killing intent.

Now was not the time for mercy.

Otherwise…

The entire ninja world could be doomed.

“Boom!!”

As Hashirama got serious, a massive surge of chakra once again enveloped him.

Naruto and Sasuke were ready, too.

“Hashirama!”

Madara suddenly called out, “How about a one-on-one battle?”

“One-on-one?”

After activating his Sage Mode, Hashirama’s gaze sharpened.

He stared intently at Madara, suspicion in his eyes.

“Yes!”

Madara smiled. “If you defeat me, I’ll abandon the Infinite Tsukuyomi plan.”

Hashirama remained silent briefly, then shook his head slowly. “No, Madara. I won’t gamble the entire ninja world. With Naruto and Sasuke’s help, our chances of victory are far greater.”

“Is that so?”

Madara looked at Hashirama with a hint of regret. “In that case, it’s time to end this.”

“End it?”

“Yes!”

Madara laughed. “Do you know why I’ve been fighting you this long?”

“It’s quite simple; I’ve just been reminiscing!”

“Remembering our old days!”

With Uchiha Itsuki’s appearance, Madara felt like the whole scene had changed.

The ninja world, in his eyes, had started to feel unfamiliar.

Madara wasn’t adapting well to this change.

Hashirama hesitated.

“You’re overthinking things.”

Madara laughed wildly. “Uchiha Itsuki is just a troublemaker. When he’s around, we don’t even get a proper fight, so I chose this moment to duel with you.”

“You brought these two kids; I brought eight tailed beasts.”

“Now, the fight is over; let’s begin!”

“Infinite Tsukuyomi!”

As he spoke…

The Ten-Tails began to act.

It opened its massive mouth and inhaled deeply.

Immediately…

Chains emerged from the eight tailed beasts, pulling them toward the Ten-Tails, which devoured them.

Then, the Ten-Tails began to transform.

It became a gigantic tree!

(End of Chapter)

*Chapter 325: The Six Paths of Madara*

“Let’s begin!”

Madara Uchiha looked up at the transformed Ten-Tails and murmured, “Infinite Tsukuyomi!”

The Eye of the Moon Plan!

“Keep dreaming, Madara!”

Hashirama Senju roared and charged straight at him.

But Madara didn’t even glance his way. Instead, he approached the Ten-Tails and placed his hand on its massive tree-like body.

“Come on, let me become the Ten-Tails’… Ugh!”

Suddenly, a loud thud echoed.

Someone appeared and threw a punch squarely into Madara’s face, sending him flying back.

“Whoosh!”

Uchiha Itsuki made his entrance!

He looked at Madara with a cold smirk. “Madara, did you forget about me? Do you really think you’re invincible?”

Slowly rising from the rubble, Madara stared at Itsuki and smiled, “You’re late. I thought last time’s fight took quite a toll on you.”

“Indeed! It was tough to face you, not exactly a walk in the park.”

“Have you recovered now? Or should I give you more time?”

Madara’s tone was sincere, almost as if he wasn’t joking.

Itsuki chuckled. “No need; I’m about 80% recovered. Taking you on won’t be a problem.”

“Good!”

Madara laughed. “You know, Itsuki, you’re one of the most interesting people I’ve ever encountered—besides Hashirama. I think you’re the only one worthy of standing by my side.”

He extended a hand. “So, how about it, Itsuki? I’m inviting you once again to join me. Let’s create a perfect world of shinobi.”

Itsuki shook his head. “Madara, what makes you think I’d ever agree?”

“Fair enough.”

Madara sighed. “Then I apologize.”

With a swift movement, the Ten-Tails’ tree form thrust countless branches forward, stabbing toward Itsuki like spears.

Itsuki immediately vanished from the spot.

“Madara, do you think tricks like that can defeat me? How pointless.”

Itsuki smirked.

“Of course not,” Madara replied. “I’ll defeat you fair and square.”

Suddenly, the enormous tree form of the Ten-Tails began to shrink.

No—he was absorbing it!

Itsuki squinted, then turned to Madara. “You’re becoming the Ten-Tails’ jinchuriki right in front of me? How are you doing this?”

Madara laughed, lifting one foot.

A branch from the Ten-Tails was connected to him, letting him absorb it bit by bit.

Soon enough, Madara sealed the entire Ten-Tails into his body, and his aura began to shift.

An intense pressure spread out from Madara, heavy and terrifying.

Even Itsuki’s breath grew rapid.

“Incredible, Madara Uchiha!”

Itsuki scoffed. “So as long as you have a contact point, you can become the Ten-Tails’ jinchuriki. No wonder you didn’t seem the least bit worried.”

The Ten-Tails’ roots were vast.

Madara had no concern he couldn’t become its jinchuriki.

So he enjoyed his battle with Hashirama with ease, win or lose.

“But tell me, Madara,” Itsuki continued, “are you really so confident that becoming the Ten-Tails’ jinchuriki will let you defeat me?”

Madara laughed aloud. “Absolutely! I’m certain of it.”

Now a Sage of the Six Paths, Madara believed himself unbeatable.

Itsuki and Hashirama were mere nuisances.

Together, they were nothing to him.

He was the new legend!

Hashirama and others gathered alongside Itsuki, all looking grave.

“How could this be?” Hashirama muttered. “So he could become the Ten-Tails’ jinchuriki at any time, which is why he never worried.”

“The recent battle was all for your sake,” Itsuki sighed. “Hashirama, you’ve become his obsession. You’re the center of his world.”

Hashirama turned to Itsuki. “Why do I feel like even normal words sound strange coming from you?”

“An illusion! It’s all in your head.”

“Madara sure seems proud,” Itsuki muttered. “Hope you don’t end up crying after I beat you. That’d be embarrassing.”

Madara scoffed. “Do you think that’s possible?”

Nine Truth-Seeking Orbs rotated slowly, exuding a palpable sense of power.

“Let’s try it!”

Whoosh!  

With a single command from Itsuki, a figure appeared at Madara’s side. Another figure soon followed on his opposite side—Tobirama Senju and Minato Namikaze had arrived.

Bang!  

Without even sparing them a glance, Madara’s expression shifted slightly, and two Truth-Seeking Orbs moved automatically in front of him, intercepting their attack.

Whoosh!  

Another figure flashed into view—it was Itsuki, who teleported using Flying Raijin to Madara’s side.

Roar!!

He swung a powerful palm toward Madara. In the blink of an eye, Susano’o formed around him. As his palm neared Madara, his arm transformed into Susano’o’s, and the force behind it was overwhelming.

Bang!

Madara raised his hand to block the attack. A shattering sound filled the air as Susano’o’s arm fractured, but Madara’s hand remained unscathed, reaching forward toward Itsuki.

“The power of the Six Paths?”

Itsuki murmured to himself before teleporting away in a flash, followed closely by Tobirama and Minato.

“Attack!”

At that moment, Naruto and Sasuke joined the fray, their powers merging once more. Susano’o transformed into armor around Kurama, wielding a giant sword that swung directly at Madara.

Madara raised his fingers, and a Truth-Seeking Orb flew out, effortlessly shattering Kurama’s sword.

“What?!”

Naruto shouted in disbelief, retaliating with a punch. Bang! Madara casually moved a Truth-Seeking Orb, transforming it into a shield that blocked Naruto’s fist.

This time, though, Madara was in for a surprise. Kurama’s power carried a rich concentration of Sage energy, and the shield was immediately covered in dense cracks upon impact.

Madara’s eyes narrowed slightly as he rose higher, maintaining his composure as the shield broke, keeping him unharmed.

“No way…”

Itsuki frowned. Was Madara really this strong? In the original series, this guy was practically overwhelmed by Naruto alone right after receiving the power of the Six Paths. Even as the Ten-Tails Jinchuriki, he didn’t shrug off attacks so easily. Now, against the four of them, he seemed utterly unbothered. Could something be wrong with Naruto and Sasuke?

Itsuki cast a suspicious glance at the two, thinking to himself, You two better not drop the ball here.

The original story was just that—a manga or anime narrative, and Itsuki couldn’t gauge the exact extent of Naruto and Sasuke’s powers from experience alone.

“Enough. Time to go all out!”

Itsuki’s eyes turned cold as he clasped his hands together, a strange energy filling his body. He was ready to unleash his hidden trump card, something to hold back yet also to wield in full force.

“Hmm?”

Noticing this energy, many around him looked at Itsuki in surprise.

They couldn’t believe it.

“Is that…Sage power?”

“Indeed.”

Itsuki spoke calmly. “Madara, you’ve become the Ten-Tails Jinchuriki, so it’s only fitting that I become a Sage, don’t you think?”

Madara’s expression darkened. Among those present, who did he fear most? It was undoubtedly Itsuki Uchiha! With his Rinnegan already awakened, Itsuki posed a considerable threat to him. Although Madara had ascended to the new Six Paths Sage, capable of dismissing ordinary attacks with ease, Itsuki’s Sage power was a game changer.

The others were equally stunned.

Itsuki Uchiha, a Sage? He possessed natural energy, meaning he could counter even someone as formidable as Madara.

In an instant, the crowd grew excited. Itsuki had just revealed his ultimate trump card—a Sage Mode transformation!

Finally, Itsuki unleashed his Sage power. The Sage’s energy coursed through him as crimson Rinnegan eyes appeared, each containing patterns of tomoe. Eerie, symmetrical markings appeared on his face, giving him an air of dangerous allure.

Naruto’s Sage Mode only added an eye shadow, while Hashirama’s extended the markings outward, yet Itsuki’s Sage transformation featured uniquely symmetrical and ominous patterns on his face, adding a sense of mystique.

Madara gazed at Itsuki, murmuring, “The Rinnegan…Sage Mode…Itsuki Uchiha, you…”

The words “savior of the world” inexplicably surfaced in his mind.

The legend of the savior didn’t begin in Jiraiya’s time but originated long ago at Mount Myoboku. However, to Madara, it was meaningless compared to his own power.

Yet here and now, seeing Itsuki’s transformation, the thought of a savior lingered unbidden in Madara’s mind—strange and unexplainable.

“Madara, are you still so confident?”

Itsuki smiled, and his eyes gleamed with the power of the Petrification Gaze.

Madara responded by cloaking himself in Six Paths power to ward off the petrification effect. Still, both were constantly expending energy in this intense exchange, and Itsuki was undeterred—he wasn’t fighting alone.

On his side, he had six warriors: Itsuki, Hashirama, Naruto, Sasuke, Minato, and Tobirama.

Even the power of Minato and Tobirama, though weaker, couldn’t be underestimated. With Flying Raijin, they could teleport just about anything nearby—even, say, Itsuki Uchiha himself.

If it happened to be an explosive tag, it would be manageable, but if they sent Itsuki over instead, that could change everything.

“Come on, Itsuki. Show me what you’re capable of!”

Madara grinned fiercely at Itsuki.

Finally, he felt the thrill of danger he hadn’t experienced in so long.

He was ready to go all out—for a battle worthy of the Uchiha Madara name.

Whoosh!

Using his Body Flicker Technique, Madara charged first, appearing directly in front of Itsuki and swinging his tin staff down with tremendous force.

“Bring it on!”

Itsuki yelled as he charged forward to meet him head-on.

(End of Chapter)