In Black Zetsu's original plan, the war would have dragged on for several more years, steadily weakening every nation. The Land of Rain, which appeared to have suffered no losses, had actually long since fallen under Madara's control.
But Konoha's many prodigies had brought the war to an end years ahead of schedule. That had never been part of Black Zetsu's plan.
After all, the weaker the nations were, the easier it would be for Black Zetsu to complete his plan.
Madara Uchiha sat in a chair with the Demonic Statue of the Outer Path behind him.
His body was firmly connected to the statue.
Madara was now a frail old man, relying on the statue to keep himself alive.
Of course, if anyone underestimated him and tried to fight him, Madara would make them understand just how terrifying he was.
"Wood Release?"
A trace of nostalgia crossed Madara's eyes. He seemed to be remembering his dearest friend, Hashirama Senju.
"To think Hashirama's granddaughter inherited Wood Release. I wonder how powerful hers is."
"But only Hashirama's Wood Release was the real thing. Tsunade still has a long way to go."
The three Tomoe in Madara's eyes spun rapidly. Something seemed to have occurred to him, stirring a hint of excitement.
Madara had already given his Rinnegan to Nagato. For now, he was making do with a pair of Three-Tomoe Sharingan.
"Those women can't interfere with my plan yet. Ignore them."
"If they do become an obstacle, I'll deal with them myself."
A cold glint flashed in Madara's eyes. There was nothing of an old man's decline in that gaze—only a razor-sharp edge...
"Black Zetsu, how are things going with my Rinnegan?" Madara asked.
"Lord Madara, Nagato has taken Jiraiya as his teacher and is learning Ninjutsu now."
"I see."
Madara