Ch. 261War? A Massacre!
Chapter Summary: “War? Massacre!”
Key Plot Points and Events
- Danzō and Sarutobi Hiruzen coordinate an attack against the strongest enemy targets: the Fourth Raikage and possibly Killer B.
- As the Fourth Raikage charges toward Ito Hirofumi, Danzō deliberately intercepts him. He allows the Raikage to pierce his chest and crush his heart, using his own body to restrain the Raikage.
- Danzō reveals his confidence in Izanagi and his willingness to sacrifice himself for Konoha. While he holds the Raikage in place, Hiruzen unleashes the Five-Style Great Barrage Technique.
- Killer B transforms into the Eight-Tails, Gyūki, to protect his brother. Kumogakure’s forces rush to support the Raikage, while Konoha’s army—including hundreds of resurrected warriors—joins the battle.
- Madara and Hashirama abandon their planned large-scale combination technique because it would harm their own troops in the close-quarters battle. Instead, they enter the battlefield and rely on physical combat and basic techniques.
- Madara effortlessly overwhelms a Kumogakure Elite Jonin, while Hashirama protects Madara from a rear attack and defeats another enemy. Their overwhelming strength makes the battle resemble a massacre rather than an even war.
Character Developments
- Danzō is portrayed as ruthless, self-sacrificing, and fanatically devoted to Konoha. His willingness to let the Raikage kill him demonstrates both his tactical cunning and his “Root” mentality.
- Hiruzen shows strong trust and coordination with Danzō, immediately following through with their combined plan.
- The Fourth Raikage becomes enraged and confused when the Konoha forces appear to ignore him, then is caught off guard by Danzō’s suicidal restraint.
- Killer B displays loyalty and urgency by transforming into Gyūki to save his brother.
- Madara and Hashirama reveal their extraordinary power even while deliberately limiting themselves. Their old rivalry and enthusiasm for battle resurface.
- Ito Hirofumi remains calm and unconcerned, confident that the powerful figures surrounding him can protect him.
- Hashirama remains energetic, eccentric, and comically affectionate toward Madara, while Madara responds with irritation but continues fighting alongside him.
Significant Themes
- War as overwhelming domination: The battle quickly shifts from a conventional conflict to a one-sided slaughter because of the presence of legendary resurrected warriors and future-era powers.
- Sacrifice for one’s village: Danzō’s tactic emphasizes the extreme lengths he will take to defend Konoha.
- The contrast between strategy and brute strength: Danzō and Hiruzen use coordinated tactics, while Madara and Hashirama demonstrate that raw power alone can decide the battlefield.
- Old rivalries and companionship: Madara and Hashirama’s combat partnership blends rivalry, trust, and humor.
- Comedic absurdity amid violence: Dramatic attacks and deadly sacrifices are repeatedly undercut by exaggerated dialogue and Hashirama’s inappropriate jokes.
Character Interactions
- Danzō and Hiruzen secretly coordinate their assault through exaggerated winks and nicknames, recalling their former partnership.
- Danzō taunts the Fourth Raikage while restraining him, declaring his identity and loyalty to Konoha before Hiruzen attacks.
- Killer B and Gyūki cooperate instinctively to protect the Raikage.
- Madara and Hashirama discuss fighting together and enter the battlefield as partners.
- Hashirama protects Madara from an ambush, joking that no one else should stand behind Madara, prompting Madara’s annoyed response.