The quiet cave was pitch-black. Two figures were barely visible inside: one sat in silence, while the other gazed around listlessly, sighing now and then, seemingly lost in thought.
Before long, heavy footsteps slowly echoed through the cave.
At the entrance, a White Zetsu Clone appeared, carrying a bloodied figure over his shoulder.
The White Zetsu behind the old man looked at him and let out a soft exclamation.
"Huh, this guy's injuries are pretty serious."
Hearing that, the White Zetsu Clone replied quietly.
"When I found him, he was already unconscious. It looks like he was badly injured."
The old man said nothing. He simply stared at the figure, an odd glint flickering in his eyes.
After examining the figure closely, White Zetsu suddenly exclaimed in surprise.
"This guy... he's Uchiha Tokino, the one known as the 'Konoha Asura.'"
As he spoke, he turned to the old man and said softly,
"Madara, he's the most outstanding member of this generation of the Uchiha Clan. You could say he's your most exceptional descendant."
Madara Uchiha gave a thoughtful hum before speaking hoarsely.
"This boy... awakened the Mangekyō Sharingan... What incredible talent..."
White Zetsu was slightly startled by his words. He looked over at Tokino, covered in blood, and asked in surprise,
"You mean he has the Mangekyō Sharingan too? That's hard to believe... But... who could have injured someone with the Mangekyō Sharingan this badly?"
Madara Uchiha lowered his eyes slightly and replied hoarsely,
"His eyes aren't fully developed yet... As for who injured him... we'll know once he wakes up..."
"Heal his injuries... This boy... might be able to help with my plan someday..."
Hearing Madara Uchiha's words, White Zetsu gave Tokino a pitying look and said softly,
"Understood."
Then, the quiet cave filled with a rustling sound.
Madara