This was far from their first encounter.
Aside from Hashirama, no one had ever left him feeling this helpless.
Deep down, Madara had already acknowledged Naruto as the most troublesome and unusual opponent he had ever faced!
And so, Naruto's latest blend of firmness and gentleness, persuasion and pressure, forced Madara to put aside his belligerence once again.
Setting down his scythe, Madara sat cross-legged.
In the Moonlit Gobi, Naruto and Madara began a calm, civil conversation.
Naruto said, "Madara, I was pretty angry with you before, but now I'm actually a little grateful."
Madara asked, "Grateful for what?"
Naruto said, "For helping Sasuke... awaken his Rinnegan."
Madara exclaimed, "What did you say!?"
"Don't get worked up yet..." Naruto said gently. "The Great Toad Sage already told you the truth about Infinite Tsukuyomi and Black Zetsu's scheme. You've given up on carrying out the Eye of the Moon Plan, haven't you?"
Madara nodded.
Naruto asked, "You should also know that Kaguya's people pose a constant threat to the shinobi world. Why are you still unwilling to join forces with us?"
With both hands resting on his knees, Madara said in a low voice, "Because I refuse to accept it. I can't stomach it. Why should you be the one calling the shots? You're only showing off with my eyes..."
Naruto shook his head with a faint smile. "So that's what it is. No matter how many times I beat you, or how I do it, as long as I'm holding on to your Rinnegan, you'll never truly accept me..."
"..." Madara fell silent. After a long while, he asked in return, "What do you gain by making me accept you? Will the world stop turning without me? I doubt it."
It was rare for Madara to speak so frankly from