Hozuki Castle, underground
The deeper one went beneath this black castle built atop sheer cliffs, the more cut off it became from the outside world.
The vast underground chamber had an immensely high ceiling, while the floor was paved with black stone that reflected the faint lights above.
At its very center stood a massive square chest.
Four demon-god faces were carved into its surface. Some glared with wide eyes, others bared their fangs. Each face was different, yet all radiated an ominous aura.
"So, you've come..."
After an unknown amount of time, Madara slowly opened his eyes. The purple patterns of the Rinnegan in his right eye flashed briefly before swiftly fading.
He turned his head and glanced into the darkness behind him, a trace of displeasure in his voice.
"You're rather late, aren't you, Obito?"
The moment his words fell, a spatial vortex suddenly formed behind him.
Obito stepped out of the vortex, the hem of his black robe swaying gently.
Orochimaru emerged right behind Obito, a faint, inscrutable smile on his lips.
When he saw the figure seated before the Box of Ultimate Bliss, a hint of amazement flashed through his golden slit pupils.
"Even though I've witnessed it more than once, it still leaves me awestruck every time..."
"Uchiha Madara's power."
"Hmph. It isn't your place, an outsider, to say that."
Obito curled his lip, looked at Madara, and said coldly,
"Orochimaru has developed that technique according to your requirements.
The final preparations before the battle... can begin."
"Is that so?"
Madara's gaze passed over Obito and settled on Orochimaru behind him, anticipation rising in his eyes.
"Then... begin."
"Yes."
Orochimaru responded softly and gave a slight bow. He then stepped out from behind Obito and stopped beside Madara.
His hands flew before his chest, his