The news about the Ninja World Tournament continued to spread. Countless people, like Uchiha Madara, were preparing to fight for their chance. No one wanted to miss this rare opportunity—an opportunity to rise from an ordinary person to a citizen of the Sun God Kingdom.
For the ninja world, the Sun God Seal wasn't just a symbol of power but also a mark of status. Anyone with that seal on their forehead was seen as superior. It gave them confidence backed by their nation. Rumors said that the Sun God Seal had its own cultivation system—once unlocked, it would enhance all aspects of the body and grant instant mastery of Sage Mode, a power every ninja dreamed of.
Whispers on the streets claimed that with enough training, the seal's abilities could evolve even further. No one knew its full potential, but some construction workers at a Sun God Kingdom site years ago swore they had seen someone using that power. High-level Sun God Seal users were said to have reached a level where they could move mountains and fill seas, completely surpassing the limits of ordinary ninjas.
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Sun God Kingdom.
The Holy City – Sun God Palace.
Now with new eyes installed, Uchiha Madara walked down the street, glancing at the grand Holy City and the luxurious Sun God Palace.
Being revived should have been a good thing.
But now, he felt even more lost than before. This ninja world had gone beyond his understanding, and it made him uncomfortable. Looking at this world, he wasn't even sure if the Infinite Tsukuyomi was necessary anymore. But if he didn't carry it out, then what was the point of his revival? Did he even have a purpose now?
This… was the peaceful future he and Hashirama had once dreamed of. And with Hyuga Hitoshi—this man who called himself the Sun God—maintaining it, there was no question that peace would last.
The only concern was… what if Hyuga Hitoshi, this terrifying figure who kept the ninja world in order, suddenly died of old age or some accident? Would the balance collapse?
Forget it.
Shaking his head, Madara stopped overthinking.
With the massive Sun God Kingdom in place, there was nothing he could do anyway. Since Hyuga Hitoshi also planned to initiate the Infinite Tsukuyomi, all Madara needed to do was wait for that moment. In the meantime, he could study the power of the Sun God Seal.
Yes.
He had no doubt that he would stand out in the upcoming tournament.
After all, he was Uchiha Madara.
In front of any opponent, he should be dominant!
Of course, "any opponent" referred to ordinary ninjas without a special forehead mark.
Taking a deep breath and setting his plans in motion, Madara decided to check in on the Sun God Construction Second Squad.
To be precise, today he had taken a break to pay his respects to the Sun God. Since the construction was voluntary, many workers were just there for show—taking pictures and pretending to work. Most of the real labor fell on him.
But at least his efforts paid off.
Not only did he get an audience with the Sun God, but he also heard that some members from another construction squad wanted to meet him for a collaboration on a major project.
Apparently, it was the First Squad.
Hashirama's squad.
A few years ago, I heard that Hashirama had become the captain of the First Division of the construction team, and his damn brother, Senju Tobirama, had taken the position of vice-captain.
Stepping out of the palace, Uchiha Madara, who always kept his gaze straight ahead, suddenly froze. His pupils shrank as he looked forward.
A black combat uniform, a samurai sword strapped to his waist, spiky hair that looked just like his brother's, and pure black hair and eyes—
"Izuna?"
For a moment, Madara felt like he had traveled back to the Warring States period, back when he used to train in shuriken techniques with his younger brother. As the figure walked closer, he instinctively called out his brother's name.
"You've got the wrong person."
The sheer aura coming from this guy almost made Madara feel like he should start dancing on the spot. This person had that same irritating confidence, maybe even more than Izuna himself.
"People who are lost in their thoughts often become absent-minded. Maybe you should get some rest."
Sasuke nodded slightly at Madara and politely offered a reminder. Anyone who could enter the Sun God's palace, especially through the main hall, was either one of the Sun God's closest aides or a highly valued figure in the Sun God Kingdom. Sasuke always greeted such people with respect—he admired the strong but never bullied the weak.
As for his natural aura of confidence, that was just something he couldn't control.
After all, in the original timeline, Sasuke was already a master of showing off. In this timeline, with a different father and a different set of genes, the inherited confidence from his father only made it worse. It was simple math: when someone born to be flashy is raised by an even flashier father, the effect isn't just one plus one—it multiplies. Even when Sasuke was just walking past people, they would assume he was showing off.
"What's your name?"
Something about Sasuke's presence and appearance caught Madara off guard. Normally, two people with such strong auras would clash, but Madara found himself wanting to talk to this younger version of himself.
"Uchiha Sasuke, or Hyuga Sasuke. Call me whatever you want."
Sasuke answered calmly.
"It's rare to meet someone in the ninja world who doesn't know about me. Looks like you haven't been in the Sun God Kingdom for long."
Unlike other legendary figures who lost interest in life and left no descendants, the Sun God wasn't like that. He didn't control his own lifespan, and he took responsibility for his children. Among all his children, Sasuke was the most special.
Although Sasuke publicly claimed to be the second son of the Uchiha clan, anyone familiar with the Sun God's early days knew that he was, in fact, the Sun God's one and only son.
Sasuke never used his status to show off or bully others, but his identity naturally earned him respect wherever he went. The only real effect it had on him? It probably made his already strong aura of confidence even stronger.
Still, Sasuke knew that inheriting a divine kingdom wasn't his destiny. No one even knew the full extent of his father's power anymore. If his father ever got bored, he would arrange the future of the ninja world himself. There was no need for anyone else to worry about it.
For Sasuke, his only goal was to improve himself. He didn't want to be recognized just as the son of the Sun God—he wanted to earn respect on his own merits.
He aimed to earn achievements, rise through the ranks, and become an admiral under the Sun God Kingdom—a warrior admired by all, one who would bring no shame to his father's name!
Right now, he was training for the upcoming elite-level Chunin Exams. Though he had only recently graduated, he was ready to risk everything in battle.
This Chunin Exam was bigger than ever. Aside from the well-known rewards, there were also special prizes for the elite fighters—those who already possessed the Sun God Seal. For ordinary people, getting the seal was just the beginning. For those who had it, the race had already started.
To prepare for the exam, Sasuke planned to go on a tough mission with a jonin squad.
At the end of the day, though, Sasuke was still just a kid. Like many others, he wanted his father's approval. That's why he came to the Sun God Kingdom to see Hyuga Hitoshi. He was nervous but determined to tell his father about his plans.
He wanted praise and encouragement, something that would fill him with confidence before setting off on his journey.
A child's emotions are easy to read. So when Black Zetsu ignored the still-stunned Madara and led Sasuke into the palace, Hyuga Hitoshi knew exactly what to say.
"A young eagle must one day take flight. The Sun God Kingdom's stability depends on the efforts of those who grow stronger. Sasuke, I look forward to your future. Go forward without fear."
Hyuga Hitoshi stood up from his throne, walked down, and placed a hand on Sasuke's head, ruffling his hair.
"Remember my words—I am always watching over you."
Yes!!
I will!
Sasuke nodded excitedly, his face turning red as he tried to say something. But the nervousness of standing before Hyuga Hitoshi made him lose his words. In the end, he just stood there, grinning like an idiot.
He might not understand everything, but one thing was clear: a true show-off is just a tsundere at heart. People like that are surprisingly easy to get along with.
As Sasuke left the palace, Hyuga Hitoshi stroked his chin.
He wasn't lying when he said he was always watching Sasuke.
Just like in the original timeline, Kakashi's Team 7 had still formed. And now, they were about to take on their first real mission.
But with the changes in this world, the Land of Waves mission was about to go completely off the rails.
"Sasuke is the Sun God's only acknowledged son… and my younger brother."
Outside the palace, Black Zetsu calmly answered Madara's question as he watched Sasuke leave.
He didn't bother explaining why he himself also called Hyuga Hitoshi "Father." As a high-ranking messenger of the Sun God, Black Zetsu actually held a position even higher than Madara's in this kingdom.
"He came here to tell Father that he graduated from the Ninja Academy and is about to go on an unknown-level mission. Basically, he's just a kid leaving home, hoping for some encouragement from his dad."
Another new term.
Madara frowned. He had no idea what an "unknown-level mission" meant.
Thankfully, Black Zetsu provided an explanation.
"An unknown-level mission is a mission with no set difficulty rating but is expected to be dangerous. For example, Sasuke's current mission to investigate the Land of Waves. The mission started because the Fifth Hokage of Konoha invited a famous bridge builder from the Land of Waves…"
Ever since the message was sent, there had been no reply. Combined with the recent strange behavior of the Land of Waves—gathering odd intelligence and signs of intense battles, including traces of large-scale ninjutsu—something was definitely off.
"The Seventh Squad, where Sasuke is, has been assigned to investigate the situation in the Land of Waves and gather the latest intel. Missions like this, where the threat level is unknown until it's completed, are classified as 'unknown missions.' But since there's a high chance of combat with enemy ninjas, these missions are by default ranked B or higher."
Black Zetsu finished explaining and glanced at Sasuke's back, feeling a bit emotional.
"Look at him—Sasuke's grown up. He's even taking on responsibilities for the Sun Kingdom and easing the burden."
Missions like this, especially when they happen in small nations, could usually be delegated to allied nations of the Sun Kingdom. But Sasuke likely wanted to lessen the kingdom's workload, so he took it on himself. That just proved he was maturing—far more responsible than his useless older brother.
"Will it be dangerous?"
Uchiha Madara was silent for a moment before looking at Black Zetsu with an unreadable expression.
Lately, he had been feeling oddly sentimental. For some reason, he really didn't want anything bad to happen to this kid, who reminded him so much of Izuna.
"Heh, I'd say if anyone's in danger, it's the ones dumb enough to go after Sasuke."
Black Zetsu thought for a moment and gave what he felt was a fair answer. But Madara clearly wasn't convinced.
"That brat? He just graduated. Back in the Warring States era, a kid like him would've been nothing more than cannon fodder."
Madara still looked doubtful.
"Sasuke took down his brother when he was just seven, and if nothing else, his squad has Kakashi."
Black Zetsu's eye twitched. He felt Madara was acting pretty unusual today, but when he compared Sasuke to Madara, he could sort of understand why.
"Kakashi? That kid I used as a pawn to manipulate Obito through Rin? Even if he's grown up, how strong could he really be?"
Could Sasuke really rely on someone like that for protection?
Madara had his doubts.
But both Kakashi and Sasuke had the Sun God Seal. Wasn't he worrying too much?
Black Zetsu sighed. If he told Madara that the very kid he once used as a tool could now absolutely destroy him, Madara might actually lose his mind.
Better to just let it go.
Maybe Indra's descendants were just naturally drawn to each other. Besides, Madara probably did see Sasuke as Izuna's reincarnation at this point. No point in arguing.
"Alright, I'll let Captain Hashirama of the First Construction Squad know to reschedule the meeting. You should go and come back quickly."
Deep down, Madara still wasn't at ease unless he checked things out himself.
Black Zetsu didn't bother calling him out on it. After all, Madara's long-buried overprotective nature was finally surfacing.
It made sense, too—back in the original timeline, Madara had a strange soft spot for Sasuke. Even when Sasuke rejected his ideals and actively opposed the Infinite Tsukuyomi plan, Madara still offered him a chance to join.
And now?
Sasuke was technically on his side.
As the only son of the Sun God, he wouldn't oppose his father's plan to cast Infinite Tsukuyomi. By that logic, this kid—who reminded Madara of his own brother—was now his best supporter.
Between "making sure my little brother is safe on his first dangerous mission" and "finalizing a deal with Hashirama," Madara chose the first option.
It was an easy choice.
After all, history had already proven that Hashirama's idea of building a ninja village only led to larger-scale wars. The end result? The entire Senju Clan was wiped out, while the Uchiha Clan took control of Konoha.
So logically, working with the First and Second Construction Squads wasn't really necessary. Even if he did cooperate, he'd need to be strategic—there was no way he'd let his idiot brother take charge.
That meant there was no rush to finalize the deal with the First Squad.
Madara made his decision.
The ninja world was in turmoil, and the Elite Exam was just around the corner. Even in the pre-selection phase, it had already become the hottest topic in the world.
Many were eager to join, all hoping to uncover the secrets of the Sun God Seal or gain access to the Hyuga Clan's immense power.
"Huh, that's odd. Even Mount Myoboku sent people this time?"
In the Land of Fire, at a registration site—
A staff member glanced up at Jiraiya, then looked at the two brothers standing behind him, curiosity in his eyes.
"Uh… is there a problem?"
Jiraiya asked hesitantly.
Truth be told, he didn't want to be the one introducing these two to the competition. But Mount Myoboku had once been his teacher, and they had taught him Sage Mode.
Still, he knew exactly what their stance toward the Sun Kingdom had been before.
They even prophesized that Hyuga Hitoshi would bring disaster to the world. And at the time, Jiraiya had believed them.
But now?
Now, the ninja world was thriving.
The Great Toad Sage's prophecy had turned out to be complete nonsense.
And yet, for some reason, Mount Myoboku had now sent people to compete. There was no way they didn't have some ulterior motive.
Jiraiya had no choice but to go along with it. The Sun Kingdom had already announced that the competition was open to everyone, so he had no grounds to refuse.
He felt like he was stuck between a rock and a hard place.
Damn it, he'd rather be at one of those new foot massage parlors, gathering inspiration for his next book.
Jiraiya stole a glance at the two brothers behind him—the way their eyes flickered with something dark made him deeply uncomfortable.
How the hell did a holy land like Mount Myoboku end up producing guys that felt this… evil?
"It's nothing. Just surprising, that's all."
The staff member shook his head and handed Jiraiya two registration IDs.
"One week before the competition, report to Konoha for verification. New staff members will handle your check-in then."
Jiraiya took the IDs, glanced at the names, then handed them to the two brothers.
Then, scratching his head, he leaned in closer to the staff member and lowered his voice.
"Hey… are they really letting anyone enter this thing? I mean, is Lord Yangshin serious about this? What if someone tries to stir up trouble—"
He wasn't saying it outright, but he was clearly hinting at the two guys behind him.
The staff member immediately understood.
"It's fine. Lord Yangshin welcomes all challengers. If they have the skill and confidence, and they perform well, they'll be rewarded. Honestly, forget those two—look over there."
A staff member pointed into the distance. Over there, two cloaked figures were sneaking away from the venue.
"One of them is Uchiha Obito, the mastermind behind the Nine-Tails attack. He also caused chaos in the Land of Rain and got taught a lesson by both the First and Second Hokage. The other is Uchiha Itachi, who tried to wipe out his own clan but couldn't even defeat his seven-year-old brother. He was kicked out of the Uchiha clan and is now a confirmed S-rank rogue ninja from Konoha."
"Those two are definitely enemies, but as long as they don't cause trouble here, we don't need to bother with them. They can still go to Konoha and take part in the tournament if they want."
Were they being overconfident in their own strength, or just careless?
Jiraiya let out a bitter laugh. He was starting to feel like he couldn't keep up with the times.
Oh well, at this point, it wasn't his place to warn anyone. Like always, worrying about these things was a waste of brainpower—he might as well go get a foot massage.
But just as Jiraiya was about to head to the club, his sharp eyes caught something. One of the cloaked men was moving his fingers as if tracing something in the air.
His ninja instincts kicked in, and the usual nonsense in his mind cleared up.
Then, his pupils shrank.
That guy...
"Organization. Land of Waves. Suspicious traps. Otsutsuki?"
He was sending out some kind of message!
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