Ch. 81Facing Uchiha Madara
Plot points and events
- After Liuyu exposes the lies that shaped Obito’s life, Obito—devastated by Rin’s death—asks Liuyu what he should do. The system registers a complete reversal in Obito’s fate and recruits him as a powerful subordinate.
- Liuyu renames him Aaroniero, appoints him acting Ninth Espada in Las Noches, and welcomes his new, devouring-based abilities alongside his mutated Kamui.
- Tobi, a damaged White Zetsu creature loyal to Madara, emerges and tries to reclaim Obito. Obito asks Liuyu for permission to eat him; Liuyu agrees.
- Obito phases through Tobi’s attack, then drains his chakra, life force, and essence until Tobi is reduced to dust. The absorption also strengthens Obito’s pale arm and partly repairs his mask.
- Liuyu offers Obito the chance to confront the person who manipulated his fate: Uchiha Madara. Obito accepts, wanting answers and revenge. Liuyu opens a Garganta to the Forest of Menos, and the two leave together.
- After they depart, a black doorway opens in the underground cavern.
Character developments
- Obito shifts from grief-stricken survivor to a cold, resolute follower of Liuyu. He accepts a new identity, embraces his monstrous devouring power, and directs his anger toward Madara.
- Liuyu consolidates his influence by recruiting Obito and positioning him as a valuable, potentially formidable asset.
- Tobi remains committed to Madara’s mission, but his attempt to retrieve Obito ends in his complete destruction.
Character interactions
- Obito submits to Liuyu and asks for direction; Liuyu names him Aaroniero and grants him a place in Las Noches.
- Obito seeks Liuyu’s approval before attacking Tobi, then reports the kill with deference.
- Liuyu frames Madara as Obito’s “scriptwriter,” prompting Obito to seek a confrontation and demand answers.
Significant themes
- Manipulation and agency: Obito recognizes that others may have authored his tragedy, but chooses how to respond.
- Grief turned into vengeance: Rin’s death remains the emotional source of Obito’s transformation and hatred.
- Rebirth through identity: Becoming Aaroniero marks Obito’s break from his former self and entry into a new allegiance.
- Power through consumption: His ability to devour others literalizes his increasingly predatory transformation.