Uchiha Naruto: The Strongest

Chapter 20

The secondary hideout was shrouded in shadows, with only the flickering candlelight providing a dim illumination. The massive cave was mostly empty, save for a large, square table at the center. Madara stood at the head of the table, his expression impassive, arms folded across his chest. His presence commanded the room, exuding an air of authority and unyielding strength.

Ajisai stood beside him, mirroring his stoic demeanor. Her face was a mask of calm, her posture rigid and unwavering. She glanced around occasionally, taking in the details of the hideout, but otherwise remained still.

Mei, on the other hand, had a smile playing on her lips. It was a smile that spoke of confidence and hidden amusement. She stood with her hands on her hips, her eyes glinting in the candlelight as she surveyed the others.

Sasuke stood a few paces away, his cloak billowing slightly with the faint drafts that whispered through the cave. His face was set in a serious expression, eyes sharp and focused as he assessed the situation and the people around him.

Naori stood near Sasuke, her posture relaxed but alert. Her eyes flicked between the faces of her comrades, absorbing the silent tension that hung in the air. She remained composed, her presence steady.

Karin and Yumi were standing on the opposite side of the table. Karin's eyes were sharp and calculating, always analyzing the surroundings. Yumi, with her usual quiet demeanor, stood beside Karin, her expression unreadable, but her eyes showed a hint of curiosity about the new hideout.

The silence was thick, each person lost in their thoughts or observations. The room's stillness was occasionally broken by the soft crackle of the candles, casting dancing shadows on the walls.

Madara finally broke the silence, his deep voice cutting through the air. "It is time Kirigakure sees a new Mizukage," he began, his gaze sweeping across the group. The atmosphere shifted, the weight of the upcoming conversation settling over them as they prepared to delve into their plans and strategies.

Mei's eyes narrowed at Madara's declaration. "We're going to kill Yagura?" she asked, her voice laced with tension.

Madara shook his head. "We will do nothing. You will return to your camp and explain your situation to your men. You will tell them you were kidnapped and forced to do my bidding. Sasuke, Naori, and Ajisai will come to witness the extent of my development and protect Karin. Karin, you will use your chains to assist in restraining the Sanbi."

"I wanna come too!" Yumi interjected, her voice filled with eagerness.

"No," Madara replied bluntly.

"Why not?" Yumi asked, disappointment coloring her tone.

"You are useless," Madara answered, his tone dismissive. Without giving her a chance to respond, he shifted his gaze to Mei. "You may bring your men to witness the dance, but I will not refrain from killing those who interfere. Understood?"

Mei nodded solemnly. "And as promised, you'll allow me to run Kirigakure as Mizukage?"

Madara gave a curt nod.

Naori sighed, her concern evident. "Madara... do you really intend to fight the Mizukage and all of his forces alone?"

Madara's eyes gleamed with anticipation as he gave another curt nod. "Would it not be an interesting display?" he replied.

"It would be..." Naori started, hesitating. "But are you sure you can win?"

Sasuke stepped closer to Madara, placing a hand on his shoulder. "If he wasn't sure, he wouldn't be doing it. My question is, why are we doing this before killing Itachi? We never agreed to help with your plan."