Escape From Konoha

Chapter 182: 178: Versus Uchiha Madara

Now preparing for exams!! See you next week..

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In the silence of the night, Madara ventured through the dark forest, his gaze drawn upwards to the radiant moon in the sky. He struggled to recall the last time he had observed the moon's gentle glow.

It might have been yesterday, last year, or decades past. His memory was filled with the boring darkness, occasionally disrupted by the sounds of strange white zetsu frolicking, a weak attempt to pass the long and boring days.

A soft sigh escaped Madara's lips. The fresh air outside invigorated every cell in his aged body, giving him the sensation of being reborn.

Despite his old age and sluggish pace resembling a turtle's crawl, his eyes shone with an intense and piercing light. His Sharingan vision effortlessly penetrated the dense layers of forest's leaves, revealing the approaching enemies.

Approximately three kilometers away, the trio of Shiraishi was rapidly closing in on Madara's location. In this region, Madara's chakra was detectable through Shiraishi's sensory ninjutsu and Ayane's Byakugan, it stood out like a beacon in the darkness.

Both Shiraishi and Ayane had identified Madara's position and gauged the distance accurately. However, before reaching their destination, they faced numerous obstacles in front of them - White Zetsus.

The three of them hurried forward, with Ruri positioned in the middle, Shiraishi on the left, and Ayane on the right.

"Hello good evening! Have you eaten yet?"

"Don't be in a hurry."

"Come have fun with us here, we're super fun to talk to."

"Oh, what a cold reaction."

The Zetsus' laughter echoed from all directions. It was sounds of nonsense.

"How many of them are there?"

In their trio, Ruri wasn't a sensor, rather she was the combatant with the most formidable firepower. She had taken notice of the surrounding White Zetsus, and it was apparent that their numbers were not insignificant.

With her Byakugan active, Ayane swiftly replied, "Approximately three thousand."

This number represented a respectable estimation due to the sheer size of the enemy force, which made it impossible to count them precisely within a short timeframe.

"Three thousand?"

Ruri mumbled, pondering the implications of the large number. It was a large amount. Most ordinary ninjas would despair at the sight of such overwhelming odds. Ruri was uncertain if she alone could face them, but this time she wasn't alone. They were a formidable trio fighting together.

"Barely enough for us to have some fun."

Ruri's sentiment shifted from dread to eager anticipation. This battle could serve as a warm-up before the main event, stoking the fires of her warrior spirit. Without hesitation, she stood tall, quickly formed intricate hand seals, and channeled chakra at a speed that defied common understanding. She then unleashed her jutsu.

"Fire Release: Great Fire Annihilation!"

A torrent of flames surged from her mouth, engulfing everything in its path, resembling a relentless tidal wave. The Zetsus' ceaseless prattling was now drowned by the inferno's roar.

The White Zetsus found themselves swept up in the raging sea of flames, consumed by the relentless firestorm. Their bodies ignited and transformed into charred, blackened corpses, floating down from the sky. As the firestorm subsided, only blackened remains littered the scorched earth.

The trees, consumed by the flames, vanished, leaving behind a pitch-black wasteland, extending for a fifty-meter radius. Approximately fifty White Zetsus met their death in the fiery maelstrom.

They proved powerless to escape or resist, they lacked strength individually despite their overwhelming numbers. Even in a direct showdown, they paled in comparison to the ninja forces of smaller nations, let alone the powerful armies of major nations.

Were it not for the formidable price paid to assemble such a horde, Madara might not have been content with quiet observation and might have struck earlier. Creating a formidable force of White Zetsus was no small endeavor.

Meanwhile, Shiraishi's body sprouted several shadowy blades, which expertly severed the White Zetsus attempting to approach from his side, their movements too swift for the human eye to follow.

The shadow blades moved so quickly that even a Jonin would struggle to follow their trajectory, let alone these weak White Zetsus. They couldn't even catch a glimpse of the shadow blades as they sliced through the air, ending their existence.

"What's happening?"

The White zetsus couldn't find an opening Shiraishi's defense and they couldn't understand the nature of his attack. Their dynamic vision failed to capture the shadow blades' attack patterns.

After losing nearly a dozen White Zetsu, they no longer recklessly charged forward. Such a move would only make it easier for Shiraishi to eliminate them.

Shadow Dancer's blades were not only incredibly fast but also sharp enough to slice through human flesh effortlessly. In the presence of these blades, the White Zetsu seemed as vulnerable as tofu. If they stood in a line, the shadow blades could strike in a straight line without deviation, instantly wiping out all White Zetsu within range.

If Shadow Dancer's body couldn't be forced out, these White Zetsu would, sooner or later, meet their end. However, using this would also consume a considerable amount of chakra.

Facing Ayane was an even more miserable fate. A weakened version of Air God Strike could block numerous offensive routes used by the White Zetsu, leaving them helpless.

Ruri, in the middle, only needed to use large-scale Fire Release continuously without concerning herself with defense. Her task was to perform the straightforward job of clearing the battlefield of enemies.

This formation was the go-to strategy for the three of them when dealing with an overwhelming number of enemies. It often yielded results.

"These White Zetsu are attempting to drain our chakra."

The White zetsu were weak, and even with their numbers, they posed no real threat in the long run.

Shiraishi believed Madara had factored this into his plan. The most likely intention behind this strategy was to deplete their chakra reserves.

Regrettably, these White zetsu were exceptionally weak, on par with ordinary Chunin and lacking powerful offensive capabilities. Crowd tactics might work well against regular foes, but to the three, now merged as one, these tactics were ineffective.

"Let's not waste time with them. The key is to locate the rightful owner as soon as possible; we're very close."

Ayane said. Her Byakugan granted her an overview of the battlefield, and they swiftly advanced. The White Zetsu had minimal chance to block their progress. At most, they could drain their chakra.

At that moment, the trio sensed a subtle disturbance in the airflow. They witnessed a White Zetsu blocking their path, who roared loudly. His body began to meld with other White Zetsu like melting candles.

"What's that?" Shiraishi was bewildered. This was the first time he had observed such a transformation in White Zetsu.

"It appears to be some kind of fusion jutsu. Their chakras match perfectly, making it easier to fuse, and their strength is vastly enhanced as well." Ayane explained.

Around seven or eight White Zetsu had fused to create the monstrous creature.

While they retained their white color, their form was distorted and ugly.

Six such White Zetsu fusion monsters loomed before them, emitting a ferocious and blood-red glare from their eyes that instilled fear.

These fusion monsters moved faster than individual White Zetsu and, due to their size, created violent ground vibrations as they ran.

Ruri snorted softly and reached for her Gunbai handle, her keen eye calculating.

In a swift motion, Ruri passed through a fusion monster, cleanly bisecting it. Ayane bored a hole into the body of one of them, leaping through it. Shiraishi, while confronted with a stronger fusion monster, swiftly dismembered it with his shadow blades.

The three fusion monsters died, but the other trio of White Zetsu fusion promptly emerged, roaring and pursuing them.

After the fusion, their temperament changed, their rationality was swallowed up, turning to them into a program-like combat mode with instructions to kill.

These fusion monsters gave chase, but their pursuit was cut short by a detonation.

Kunai carrying explosive tags were arranged beneath their feet.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

The explosion obliterated the fusion monsters, casting fiery light upon the dark forest, consuming the surrounding trees and illuminating the night.

"Clear the trash." Ruri remarked nonchalantly, using her Gunbai to disperse the White Zetsu who blocked their path. Although her Chakra reserve was abundant at the moment, she felt it was better to be careful with it with the upcoming battle.

"Don't let them charge forward!"

The White Zetsu shouted. Fear and hesitation were alien concepts to them; they' had never possessed such feelings. They existed as combat tools, driven only by the single-minded goal of killing all enemies for their master.

Despite realizing their insignificance compared to a powerful ninja, they pressed on without retreating, aiming to consume their enemies' physical strength and chakra by delaying their advance.

The forest blazed, and the night became vibrant with light.

Madara stopped in his tracks, gazing at the forest engulfed in flames. His expression remained unchanged, his chakra began to surge.

"You're very close, let me test your weight."

As a result, curved, blue ribs materialized around his body, comprised entirely of Chakra. Only Uchiha who had unlocked the Mangekyou Sharingan could harness this ultimate power – Susanoo.

The Uchiha Clan's Naka Shrine at its lowest level had inscribed a chilling warning: anyone who witnessed the God of Destruction's power would invariably meet their demise.

However, the process wasn't complete. More bones sprouted from the arms behind the ribs, and as the upper body transformed into a skeleton covered by flesh and pathways, the physicalization of chakra took on a more tangible form.

"Well, let's test the strength of this move using the second-stage Susanoo on you, you little chicks who want to dance against me." A sly and playful smile appeared on his old face.

"Yasaka Magatama!"

Before them, within Madara's materialized chakra Susanoo, three colossal blue orbs began to rapidly spin and were launched towards the forest. Traveling at immense speed and increasing their rotation during flight, the three orbs seemed interconnected, forming a vast, elongated blue line that carved its path forward.

The trio, heading towards Madara, immediately noticed a shift in the wind and detected the approaching danger.

Ayane, with her Byakugan, swiftly leaped to the forefront of the team, her demeanor serious. She swiftly raised her palm and struck the coming attack forcefully.

"Air God Strike!"

The mighty counterattack slowed down the rapid movement of the three connected hook orbs. The two forces collided head-on, creating a thunderous shockwave that shook the forest.

The resultant storm blasted outward, sending trees and white leaves scattering. Once the airborne dust cleared, the land bore the scars of the simultaneous clash.

Once the airborne dust settled, the devastation caused by the simultaneous clash was unveiled. The ground, several centimeters thick, appeared to have evaporated, riddled with potholes and lingering white smoke.

Observing the trio, Madara, seemingly choked by the rising dust, coughed, and calmly spoke:

"Byakugan? It's certainly different from the Hyuga I've encountered in the past. And.. it appears to be an evolved form of the Vacuum Palm. It's quite the elegant dance."

The jutsu involved concentrating a huge amount of high-density chakra in the palm, then instantaneously releasing this chakra through every pore in the palm, generating an unparalleled shockwave.

Whether for pinpoint strikes or extensive destruction, this jutsu wields considerable power. Furthermore, it offers robust defensive capabilities, becoming a formidable offensive and defensive weapon within the team.

Madara had quickly grasped the principles behind Ayane's Gentle Fist from their recent confrontation. Mastering this technique required exceptional chakra control, physical strength, and a considerable chakra reserve. Most importantly, the Byakugan served as the foundation, as without it, it would be impossible to wield such sophisticated jutsu. Madara concluded that this was a variation of the Hyuga Gentle Fist.

"It's an honor to be praised by a legendary ninja like yourself." Ayane replied with a slight smile. Her hands trembling slightly, evidence of her use of her own palms to block the attack Madara had unleashed moments ago. Her arm remained slightly paralyzed even now.

"You're welcome. You've certainly earned the recognition. Among the Hyuga ninja I've encountered, your strength may well be the most remarkable. The others cling too rigidly to tradition, leaving their jutsus somewhat outdated and lacking innovation.".Madara delivered these words with great composure.

Ayane stopped conversing, withdrawing her smile and adopting her gentle fist stance.

Ruri mirrored her movements, slightly lowering her body while gripping the gunbai with unwavering focus. Facing this individual, even a 1000% concentration seemed inadequate. The memory of their previous confrontation continued to cast a long shadow.

Ruri couldn't help but wonder if she'd ever overcome her fear of such immense power. Nevertheless, she recognized the importance of not allowing fear to immobilize her in battle. There was no shame in fearing great power; the key was to find a way to transcend that fear. A principle that Ruri now held close.

In contrast, Shiraishi didn't appear particularly remarkable next to them. However, Madara viewed this seemingly unremarkable and silent man, who often went unnoticed by others, as potentially the most difficult and central figure amongst the three.

He possessed medical ninjutsu skills, mysterious shadow jutsu, and the ability to summon various unknown creatures. The extent of his abilities remained shrouded in mystery, making him an strange figure. He excelled as an intelligence operative, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking and planning.

Of the three, Shiraishi was the most unpredictable.

Even Madara was uncertain about his full range of capabilities.

The information which came from Konoha appeared to be intentionally misleading and potentially set as traps. Shiraishi was aware of the Rinnegan's existence but kept feigning ignorance, bided his time until the moment was right to take action.

Madara believed that it was likely Shiraishi's idea to use Nagato to reach this location, although he couldn't fathom how Shiraishi closely monitored Nagato in real-time and swiftly pinpointed this spot. Their intelligence network was possibly on par with, or even superior to, White Zetsu in certain aspects.

It was a convoluted situation, rife with complications. Madara had initially intended to use Yasaka Magatama to unmask Shiraishi's ploys but had been promptly blocked by Ayane. It left Madara with no insight into Shiraishi's other capabilities.

For an individual lurking in the shadows, it was certain that these actions were merely the tip of the iceberg. Caution was important. His current power paled in comparison to the pinnacle of his former glory, leaving him notably weakened.

Understanding this, Madara found the strength to part his parched lips and convey his message. Despite his slight and strained enunciation, the voice carried distinctly to the three.

"Before we continue this battle, I would like to ask a question. Your sensei, Sakumo, was driven to suicide by the Konoha's council, and he endured unfair treatment at their hands. Even now, you've been regarded as rogue ninjas. Despite witnessing this despair, do you still hold hope for the boring reality of this world?"

Ruri exuded an overwhelming torrent of chakra, swiftly conjuring a colossal red chakra giant. This jutsu, emulating Susanoo, was created with her powerful Sharingan abilities and Senjutsu chakra.

Madara felt the oppressive presence emanating from the red chakra giant, even though he had encountered it before. He couldn't help but marvel at its might. The utilization of her Sharingan had reached its pinnacle, even surpassing his own original three-tomoe Sharingan form.

"I have no time to listen to the ramblings of an old man. If you're an Uchiha, let your actions do the talking!"

Ruri stood atop the head of the red chakra giant, Ayane and Shiraishi joined her. The trio gazed down at Madara from above.

"It seems the same bloodline can lead to different paths... Impatient young lady, indeed, as an Uchiha, your power in should speak for you!"

Madara wanted to laugh happily, although it was a bit challenging given the circumstances, but it was evident that he was tremendously thrilled.

Madara wanted to show his joy, but it proved a challenge. Regardless, he was ready to unleash his newfound power. Chakra far exceeding Ruri's emerged from his body, and the blue chakra giant surrounding him raised its form. Madara who stood on top the giant whith his three-tomoe Sharingan which emitted a formidable pressure that bore down upon the trio.

"The tbird stage of Susanoo, achievable with the three-tomoe Sharingan, even the standard Mangekyou Sharingan can't accomplish that. You have my approval!"

Under Madara's control, the blue Chakra giant extended its arms, brandishing two colossal, twisted blue light swords. He maintained a cold gaze as he swung the swords downward with immense force.

Boom!

"Madara-sama!"

A colossal explosion ensued, kicking up winds and dust that swept away everything in their path. The White Zetsu, who had not yet evacuated, were carried away by the storm created by the enormous swords. The tempest's force rendered them helpless, but their loyalty shone through as they continued to call out for Madara.

In response, a red chakra sword materialized from the swirling air, intercepting Madara's two blue chakra swords. However, the impact of the blue chakra swords against the red chakra sword caused the red chakra giant to slowly retreat. It sustained a few cracks but quickly mended itself through chakra infusion.

Madara observed this brief self-repair process. Despite the Susanoo's fourth stage not matching the original fourth-stage Susanoo powered by the Mangekyou Sharingan, it still exceeded the third-stage Susanoo in terms of power. He considered that pitting this Susanoo against the younger Uchiha might appear slightly unfair, given the latter's lack of experience. However, with three opponents to face, he deemed this power level appropriate.

He acknowledged his limitations and the fragile state of his body, acknowledging that it might not withstand further increase in power. In fact, Madara found it unsurprising that his weak body might suddenly give way, even in this moment.

Atop the head of the red chakra giant, only Shiraishi and Ruri remained, as Ayane had mysteriously vanished. Madara began scanning for Ayane when suddenly the blue giant chakra staggered and frll backward.

A large number of blue chakra fragments flew out, painting a beautiful and enigmatic blue arc across the dark night sky. Gradually, these chakra fragments spiraled out of the operator's control, vaporizing swiftly in the air until the blue chakra flames disappeared entirely.

One of the blue chakra giant's legs had been shattered. Madara spoke, "Is she there?"

Through this maneuver, Madara became aware of Ayane's actions. As he descended, he raised his arm and swung down with the blue chakra sword in his hand.

A thunderous clash ensued as Ayane met the blue chakra giant sword with her palm, causing the sword to splinter. Countless blue chakra fragments danced through the night sky before vanishing gradually.

Ayane's arm was bleeding profusely, and one hand was rendered useless. Her chakra was reduced to half.

Madara sensed all of this, with an interesting smile on his face.

By controlling the chakra input, one could directly influence the power of the "Air God Strike." However, increasing the power came at the price of greater risks for the user. To reach a level capable of shattering a fourth-stage Susanoo, one had to endure the direct consequence of a disabled hand – shattered bones throughout the entire arm.

A reckless act from the young girl. With one hand incapacitated, it would mean a 50% loss in her strength, leaving him to deal with the other two opponents.

Ayane maintained a stoic expression, her body swiftly darted, and she leaped onto the head of the red chakra giant.

Shiraishi touched Ayane's shoulder, enveloping her in a vibrant, green light brimming with vitality. In an instant, Ayane's chakra reserves were replenished, and her previously crippled hand was fully restored, moving with renewed dexterity and leaving no trace of blood.

Madara's pupils contracted at this sight

Ruri retained control of the red chakra giant, directing a powerful strike with the giant's right-hand sword. The violent collision overwhelmed Madara's blue chakra giant, causing him to bleed from the impact.

"This is troublesome."

The power of that medical ninjutsu rivaled that of his close friend, Hashirama. The instant healing of a shattered arm demonstrated Shiraishi's formidable medical ninjutsu abilities. Without eliminating Shiraishi, the core of this group with his powerful medical ninjutsu, winning the battle seemed improbable.

Just as Madara grappled with these grim thoughts, a moist presence materialized in the air.

"Is this... water?"

From out of nowhere, surging waves of water burst forth. Glistening vertical pupils the size of red behemoths appeared within the water.

It was a huge water-formed python, which ensnared the blue chakra giant under Madara's command. The serpent opened its massive mouth, clamped down on the giant's neck, and began devouring the materialized chakra of Susanoo.

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