Chapter 8 – The Complete Jutsu and the New Order

A few days had passed since Sal received Paper Painting from the Change System. Originally one of the Six Styles from One Piece's Marine combat techniques, the jutsu had required adaptations to fit the ninja world. Instead of relying solely on physical prowess, it now used chakra to allow the user to dissolve their body into subtle fragments, evading attacks with near-intangibility.

However, Sal pretended not to have fully mastered the technique, using the opportunity to gain more resources and knowledge from Konoha. He knew that showing promise in jutsu creation and enhancement would soon attract the attention of influential figures.

In the training field, Orochimaru watched closely as Sal tested the technique.

Sal glided through the air, his body fragmenting into fluid movements before quickly reforming several meters ahead. Each time he avoided a simulated attack, his control over the technique grew sharper.

Orochimaru, who had been silently observing until now, finally spoke:

— "This technique… it suits me surprisingly well."

His tone was neutral, but Sal caught the interested gleam in his yellow eyes.

He had anticipated this. Given Orochimaru's bodily modifications, the jutsu's potential skyrocketed in his hands. If Sal achieved 80% efficiency, Orochimaru pushed it to 160%, making him even harder to hit or capture.

Orochimaru didn't offer direct praise, but Sal understood he had earned valuable points in the Sannin's eyes.

At that moment, a messenger appeared in the training field. Ignoring Sal entirely, he addressed Orochimaru directly.

— "Orochimaru-sama, there's an urgent summons from Sarutobi-sama."

Orochimaru raised an eyebrow.

— "Hiruzen-sensei calling for me? That's rare…"

Before leaving, the messenger added one more detail:

— "The White Fang of Konoha has eliminated the two puppet masters of Suna."

Sal heard the words and immediately connected the dots.

"Puppet masters of Suna… That can only mean Sasori's parents."

The young Sasori had just lost his parents. Sal already knew where this would lead. Consumed by grief, the boy would walk a dark path, eventually becoming one of the most feared criminals in the future Akatsuki.

"Destiny keeps unfolding… Even though I've changed some things, certain events still happen."

Orochimaru, unaware of Sal's thoughts, chuckled quietly.

— "The pieces on the board keep moving… Let's see what kind of mission awaits us now."

With that, he turned and left, leaving Sal alone with his reflections.

The war was intensifying. Hiruzen's summons marked a new phase of the conflict, and Sal knew exactly what was coming.

"The Battle of the Sannin… is about to begin."