The underground laboratory fell into profound silence as Madara's overwhelming presence filled every corner of the cramped space, his chakra signature so dense and malevolent that it seemed to physically press against everything within reach. The very air became thick and oppressive, making normal breathing difficult and clear thinking nearly impossible for anyone unfortunate enough to be trapped within the sphere of his influence.
Faced with such overwhelming intimidation, virtually no living being would dare to disobey or contradict the legendary Uchiha's will. This was power that transcended normal human capabilities, the manifestation of someone who had moved beyond the boundaries of mortality and now wielded authority that challenged the fundamental laws of existence.
Madara understood that he needed to confirm Mukade's true motivations and objectives with absolute certainty. Even without the medical ninja's assistance, the coming war could still be conducted, but having access to his unique capabilities would provide significant tactical advantages that could prove decisive in the conflicts ahead.
In order to effectively challenge the combined forces of the five major ninja nations simultaneously, the captured tailed beasts sealed within the Outer Path Demon Statue would need to be supplemented with additional combat power. The Edo Tensei technique represented the most efficient method for creating an army of legendary warriors who could operate without fear of permanent death or the limitations that normally constrained living fighters.
As for practitioners capable of employing the reanimation technique with the precision and scale that the coming conflict would require, Mukade was skilled and knowledgeable, but he was not irreplaceable. If his motivations proved unreliable or his loyalty uncertain, alternative arrangements could be made without significantly compromising the overall strategic plan.
Under the crushing weight of Madara's aura, Mukade's body began to show visible signs of physical stress. His teeth clenched together with such force that the muscles in his jaw stood out like cords, and his eyeballs rapidly filled with blood as the pressure affected his cardiovascular system. The handsome features that had once marked him as one of Orochimaru's most promising disciples became distorted with a ferocious expression that spoke to years of accumulated hatred and resentment.
"My ultimate goal," Mukade said, his voice rising from a whisper to nearly a roar, "is the complete destruction of the existing ninja system and the elimination of all ninjas and ninjutsu from this world!"
The declaration was delivered with such raw intensity that it seemed to emerge from the very depths of his soul, carrying with it the accumulated fury of someone who had suffered unimaginable torments at the hands of the system he now sought to obliterate. This wasn't mere professional ambition or philosophical disagreement—this was the pure, distilled hatred of someone who had been broken and rebuilt into an instrument of vengeance.
Madara observed this outburst with the calm detachment of someone who had witnessed countless displays of human emotion over the centuries. His Rinnegan provided capabilities that went far beyond enhanced vision, allowing him to perceive the fundamental nature of souls and determine with absolute certainty whether someone was speaking truth or attempting deception.
The spiritual energy radiating from Mukade's declaration confirmed that every word was genuine, emerging from convictions that had been forged through personal suffering and tempered by years of careful planning and preparation.
"I am fully aware," Mukade continued, his voice becoming hoarse with the strain of maintaining such emotional intensity, "that with my own limited abilities, even if I devoted my entire lifetime to pursuing this objective, I could never hope to accomplish such a fundamental transformation of the world."
The admission carried the weight of someone who had spent considerable time analyzing his own capabilities and recognizing their limitations. Despite his considerable skills in medical ninjutsu, scientific research, and combat techniques, he understood that individual power—no matter how exceptional—would never be sufficient to challenge the established order that governed the ninja world.
"Therefore," he said, his voice taking on the conviction of someone who had identified the only viable path forward, "I require the assistance of someone who possesses truly overwhelming power, capabilities that transcend normal human limitations."
"The masked individual within our organization who claimed to represent Uchiha Madara does not possess the level of strength necessary for such an undertaking. There is only one person in existence who commands the power required to reshape the world according to my vision."
His gaze fixed on Madara with the intensity of absolute conviction. "That person is you—someone who has successfully obtained both the Sage of Six Paths' legendary eye techniques and the immortal body that originally belonged to the First Hokage."
"Interesting," Madara replied, his tone carrying a note of genuine curiosity as he studied Mukade's expression and body language for additional insights into his psychological makeup.
The explanation provided a logical framework for understanding the medical ninja's motivations, but it also raised questions about what specific experiences had shaped such extreme philosophical positions. Hatred of this magnitude didn't develop spontaneously—it required catalyst events that were both profound and deeply personal.
However, Madara possessed access to intelligence that provided context for Mukade's current state of mind. Through his various information networks, particularly the reports provided by Black Zetsu, he had learned considerable details about this individual's background and the formative experiences that had shaped his worldview.
Mukade represented the sole survivor among all the experimental subjects that Orochimaru had used in his pursuit of immortality techniques. The legendary Sannin's research methods had been notoriously brutal and dehumanizing, treating living beings as expendable resources in the pursuit of scientific advancement. The physical and psychological trauma inflicted during these experiments would have been sufficient to break most individuals entirely.
That Mukade had not only survived but emerged with his intellectual capabilities enhanced rather than diminished spoke to either exceptional resilience or the kind of fundamental personality reconstruction that sometimes occurred in response to extreme trauma. The hatred he harbored toward the ninja world was both understandable and strategically useful.
To some extent, Mukade's psychological profile bore significant similarities to that of Obito, another individual whose idealism had been corrupted through exposure to the ninja world's darker realities. However, where Obito had retained some connection to his original emotional foundations, Mukade appeared to have embraced extremism to a degree that surpassed even his predecessor's nihilistic worldview.
Recognizing that Mukade's motivations aligned sufficiently with his own objectives to ensure reliable cooperation, Madara gradually began to restrain the overwhelming aura that had filled the laboratory. The oppressive atmosphere lightened perceptibly, allowing normal conversation to resume without the constant threat of suffocation or cardiovascular collapse.
In this case, he would naturally be pleased to utilize the capabilities that such a dedicated and skilled ally could provide. The medical ninja's unique combination of scientific knowledge, combat experience, and absolute commitment to destruction made him an ideal subordinate for the conflicts ahead.
"That individual strapped to your examination table appears to be a member of the Akatsuki organization as well," Madara observed, his gaze shifting to study the bizarre tableau that Hidan's immortal body presented. "What manner of experimentation are you conducting with him?"
"This subject possesses a truly fascinating physiological structure," Mukade replied, his professional demeanor returning as the immediate threat to his survival receded. "Although I still cannot fully comprehend the mechanisms behind the so-called Jashin sacrifice rituals, his genetic material provides unique opportunities for enhancing the reanimation techniques."
"Enhancement?" Madara asked, his interest clearly piqued by the implications of what he was hearing.
"Although the dead who are resurrected through Edo Tensei possess immortal bodies and inexhaustible chakra reserves," Mukade explained, his voice taking on the lecturing tone of someone discussing complex technical specifications, "they are not inhabiting their original physical forms. This limitation prevents them from manifesting the full strength and capabilities they possessed during their lifetimes."
The explanation touched on one of the fundamental weaknesses of the reanimation technique—while it could restore legendary warriors to a form of life, the artificial bodies they inhabited were inherently inferior to the flesh and blood they had originally possessed. This reduction in capability could be significant when dealing with opponents who had achieved the highest levels of power through decades of training and refinement.
"However, after genetic modification using this subject's unique cellular structure, the reanimated bodies achieve a considerable degree of biological activation," Mukade continued, his enthusiasm for the research clearly evident in his voice. "The enhanced forms are capable of expressing strength much closer to what the individuals possessed in life, allowing them to manifest significantly greater combat effectiveness in future conflicts."
"You demonstrate remarkable capability," Madara said, offering a rare expression of genuine admiration for another's accomplishments.
He had not anticipated that someone so young could achieve such sophisticated results in what was fundamentally virgin territory for ninja research. The combination of medical knowledge, scientific methodology, and creative problem-solving required for such innovations suggested that Mukade's value as an ally extended far beyond his ability to perform standard reanimation techniques.
"I have already made preparations to genetically enhance all of the legendary warriors from the five ninja nations that will be placed under my control," Mukade said with a chuckle that carried both pride and dark anticipation.
"Additionally," he continued, his expression taking on the focused intensity of someone describing a carefully planned operation, "in the desert regions of the Land of Wind, there once existed a kingdom called Rōran."
"Although that nation was destroyed long ago and its people scattered or killed, a unique power source called dragon veins continues to flow through the land where it once stood."
The reference to dragon veins immediately caught Madara's attention, as he possessed historical knowledge of various supernatural phenomena that had been lost to most contemporary ninja. The energy sources that Mukade was describing represented something far more significant than conventional chakra manipulation.
"After completing the genetic modifications for my reanimated army," Mukade explained, "I intend to travel to the ruins of Rōran and utilize the power of the dragon veins to create exceptionally high-strength puppet warriors that will supplement our conventional forces."
The ambition of the plan was impressive, demonstrating the kind of strategic thinking that Madara appreciated in his subordinates. The combination of enhanced reanimated legendary ninja and artificially created puppet soldiers would provide a military force unlike anything that had ever been assembled in the ninja world's history.
However, Mukade's expression shifted slightly as he continued his explanation, showing the first signs of uncertainty since their conversation had begun. "There is one significant complication that may interfere with this plan's execution."
"It appears that the Fourth Hokage visited that location many years ago and sealed the dragon vein power using an extremely sophisticated sealing technique," he said, his voice carrying obvious frustration with this obstacle. "I am not entirely confident that my current abilities are sufficient to break through the barriers he established."
Madara slowly turned away from the examination table and began walking toward the laboratory's exit, his movements carrying the casual confidence of someone who viewed such concerns as minor technical issues rather than serious strategic obstacles.
"At the time when Minato Namikaze sealed those dragon veins, he was only sixteen years old," Madara said, his voice carrying the dismissive tone of someone who considered the problem already solved. "If you cannot overcome the work of a teenage ninja, regardless of his subsequent reputation and accomplishments, then I will be severely disappointed in the capabilities you have claimed to possess."
The challenge was delivered with the kind of casual brutality that characterized all of Madara's interactions with subordinates—absolute expectations combined with the implicit threat of termination for anyone who failed to meet his standards.
As the declaration of war continued to reverberate throughout the ninja world, the atmosphere within Konoha had undergone a fundamental transformation. Where once there had been the comfortable routine of peacetime, now every corner of the village buzzed with urgent preparation for a conflict unlike anything in recorded history.
The solemn weight of impending doom hung over every conversation, every training session, every strategic planning meeting. This wasn't simply another territorial dispute or political disagreement—this was a fight for the continued existence of their way of life, their civilization, and ultimately their species.
On the third day following Madara's formal declaration of hostilities, within the sterile environment of Konoha Hospital's medical wing, the consequences of pushing human limitations beyond their natural boundaries were being addressed with the same clinical precision that characterized all of Tsunade's work.
In just two days of training that bordered on suicidal in its intensity, Sasuke had somehow managed to achieve complete mastery over his Mangekyō Sharingan's power. The speed of his development was unprecedented, but it had come at a physical cost that threatened to cripple him permanently if not addressed immediately.
"Are you actively trying to kill yourself, you reckless fool?" Tsunade demanded as her diagnostic techniques revealed the full scope of the damage that Sasuke had inflicted on his own body.
Her medical examination had discovered that virtually every cell in his body showed signs of significant damage, the cumulative result of forcing his Susanoo technique far beyond what his physical form was designed to withstand. The advanced protective construct that represented the ultimate expression of Uchiha power demanded a price in blood and agony that few were willing to pay.
The cellular damage wasn't simply superficial—it represented fundamental trauma to his body's basic functional systems, the kind of injury that could result in permanent disability or death if allowed to progress unchecked.
Sasuke maintained a facade of calm composure, gritting his teeth and attempting to project an image of stoic endurance despite the obvious agony that wracked his entire form. But Tsunade's extensive experience with combat injuries and medical treatment made it impossible for him to conceal the truth from her professional assessment.
She knew with absolute certainty that any movement, no matter how slight, would result in excruciating pain radiating through every nerve ending in his body. The fact that he was conscious and coherent at all spoke to either exceptional pain tolerance or the kind of desperate determination that allowed people to function despite impossible circumstances.
Itachi stood nearby, his expression reflecting the complex mixture of pride and concern that characterized his relationship with his younger brother. While he admired Sasuke's dedication and rapid development, he was also acutely aware of the dangers associated with such accelerated training methods.
"Let's begin the process of fusing our ocular powers immediately," Sasuke said as Tsunade's healing techniques provided enough relief for him to sit upright on the hospital bed.
The statement was delivered with the matter-of-fact tone of someone discussing routine medical procedures rather than experimental surgery that carried significant risks of permanent blindness or death.
"Attempting to fuse your pupil power with your body in its current condition would be tantamount to suicide," Tsunade replied bluntly, her glare carrying the authority of someone who would not tolerate arguments about medical decisions.
Despite the fact that Sasuke's current combat capabilities might actually exceed her own in certain areas, her expression caused his confidence to waver slightly. The psychological impact of childhood memories, when she had seemed like an insurmountable authority figure, continued to influence his responses even now.
"Isn't time running short before the war reaches us?" Sasuke asked, his voice carrying an urgency that seemed fundamentally at odds with his usual calculating and emotionally reserved personality.
"In order to fight effectively against our enemies, I must become stronger as quickly as possible, regardless of the personal cost!"
The reasoning was sound from a tactical perspective, but the passionate delivery was so uncharacteristic that it left Tsunade momentarily stunned. After a moment of processing this unexpected display, she chuckled softly and shook her head in amazement.
"That kind of statement sounds much more like something Naruto would say," she observed, her tone mixing affection with exasperation. "Speaking of which, it's about time that particular coward returned from his training."
"Otherwise this war might be concluded before he has an opportunity to participate."
Although Sasuke's response carried his characteristic sarcastic edge, his facial expression revealed that the mockery was largely superficial. "That loudmouthed idiot had better get back here soon, or he'll miss all the action."
He understood Naruto's character well enough to know that his teammate was definitely not the type of person who would flee from warfare or abandon his friends when they needed him most. Whatever training or mission was keeping him away from the village, it would not prevent him from returning when the conflict reached its critical phase.
Observing the genuine determination that blazed in Sasuke's eyes, Tsunade slowly turned toward the laboratory equipment that would be required for the procedure he was requesting. "I will perform the transplant surgery on both of you tomorrow," she said, her voice carrying the weight of someone accepting responsibility for an extremely dangerous medical intervention.
"Make sure you are mentally prepared for what this will involve."
The warning encompassed both the physical pain that would accompany the surgery and the psychological adjustment required for integrating foreign ocular power into their existing abilities. Eye transplant procedures, while technically feasible with current medical technology, carried risks that extended far beyond conventional surgical complications.
Itachi inclined his head respectfully as Tsunade departed from the room, then turned to exchange a meaningful look with his younger brother. The silent communication that passed between them carried years of shared understanding, mutual respect, and the kind of unbreakable bond that had survived even the most devastating betrayals and misunderstandings.
One day later, within the sterile environment of Konoha Hospital's most advanced surgical suite, two brothers prepared to undergo a procedure that would either grant them the power necessary to influence the coming war's outcome or leave them permanently disabled and unable to contribute to their village's defense.
Eye transplant surgery was not particularly complex from a technical perspective, given the current state of medical knowledge within the ninja world. The procedures had been refined through decades of research and practical application, primarily driven by the unique requirements of bloodline limit users who had suffered combat injuries or genetic complications.
Therefore, the actual exchange of ocular organs between Itachi and Sasuke was completed with remarkable efficiency and precision. The surgical techniques that Tsunade employed were masterful, reflecting her status as the most skilled medical ninja of her generation.
When Madara had approached the brink of blindness due to overuse of his Mangekyō Sharingan's power, he had transplanted the eyes of his deceased brother Izuna and successfully unlocked the Eternal Mangekyō Sharingan. The procedure had not only restored his vision but had also granted him access to enhanced abilities that far exceeded what he had possessed with his original eyes.
However, each pair of Mangekyō Sharingan contained unique ocular powers that were specific to the individual who had awakened them. Even though Itachi and Sasuke were blood relatives sharing genetic heritage that made transplantation medically viable, there remained significant possibility that their different abilities would create conflicts or rejection reactions that could prove catastrophic.
"How are you feeling?" Tsunade asked as she observed both patients, their eyes now covered with protective bandages that would need to remain in place until the initial healing process was complete.
The next few hours would be critical for determining whether the procedure had been successful or whether emergency interventions would be required to prevent permanent damage.
"I seem to be tolerating the change well," Itachi replied, his voice carrying the same calm control that characterized most of his responses to stressful situations.
However, his internal awareness revealed a more complex reality. He could indeed sense Sasuke's ocular power integrating with his own visual system, but simultaneously he was experiencing a gradual weakening of his original abilities. The process seemed to involve some form of energy exchange or redistribution that wasn't entirely predictable.
Learning about this development, Tsunade's expression grew increasingly concerned as she considered the implications of what Itachi was describing. The possibility that the fusion process might diminish rather than enhance their combined capabilities had not been anticipated based on historical precedents.
"Bang!"
Without warning, Sasuke's body convulsed as his brain was struck by what felt like a massive wave of sensory information. The intensity of the experience forced him to press his palms against his bandaged eye sockets in an instinctive attempt to somehow contain or control the overwhelming input.
"I can feel my brother's power flowing into my system," Sasuke gasped, his voice tight with the strain of processing experiences that his mind wasn't prepared to handle. "But it's more than just power—I'm experiencing fragments of the things he has seen, the emotions he has felt, the memories that have shaped his perspective."
The revelation suggested that the eye transplant was facilitating a level of consciousness sharing that went far beyond simple visual enhancement. If successful, this fusion would not only grant them access to each other's techniques but would also provide unprecedented insight into each other's experiences and motivations.
The process was both promising and terrifying, representing either the breakthrough they desperately needed or the beginning of a medical catastrophe that could destroy them both.