Chapter 10 – Arrival in the Land of Rain

Heavy rain poured down on Konoha's camp in the Land of Rain. Orochimaru's group, including Sal, Nawaki, and a few subordinates, had just arrived. The atmosphere was somber, reflecting the gravity of the war, and the weather seemed to mirror the tension hanging in the air.

Already present at the camp were Tsunade and Kaito Dan. Sal, with his deep knowledge of Konoha's key figures from his previous life, immediately recognized them. Tsunade, the legendary Sannin known for her incredible strength and medical prowess, and Kaito Dan, the jōnin specialized in a forbidden and dangerous technique: Spirit Transformation, which allowed his soul to leave his body. This ability made him capable of infiltrating enemy lines undetected and executing strategic assassinations, though it left his physical body extremely vulnerable.

As Orochimaru's group entered the camp, Tsunade and Kaito Dan were in the middle of discussing military strategies, given how relentless the battlefield had become. However, Orochimaru's presence shifted the conversation in a new direction. Sal observed the scene from afar, fully aware of the importance of everyone present—and the fact that Kaito Dan, with his Spirit Transformation, operated from the shadows, something Sal already knew from his knowledge of Konoha's history.

Tsunade glanced at Orochimaru as he approached, then immediately turned to Nawaki, who had just arrived alongside him. Her expression hardened, and her voice was stern, though the underlying concern was clear.

— "Nawaki, I heard about the trap that nearly cost you your life. I won't allow you to put yourself at risk like that again." Her tone was firm, but the worry in her eyes betrayed her strict facade.

Orochimaru, usually calm and detached, simply glanced at Nawaki without commenting. This was Tsunade's domain, and he knew better than to interfere when she was in control.

Then Tsunade's gaze shifted to Sal, standing quietly beside Nawaki. She had already read the reports about the young chūnin who had saved her brother. Stepping forward, she spoke in a serious yet respectful tone.

— "Sal, thank you for saving my brother's life. I've heard about your speed jutsu, and I can assure you, your skill hasn't gone unnoticed." She paused, studying the young ninja more closely. "In times like these, we need people like you."

Sal gave a slight bow, a gesture of respect. He didn't want to appear overly modest but understood that this was a moment to show quiet confidence.

— "It was nothing, Tsunade. I only did what any ninja would have done in my place." His voice was calm and composed. Though officially a chūnin, Sal knew he had much more to offer, and this was an opportunity to start shifting the tides in his favor.

Kaito Dan, standing beside Tsunade, watched the exchange with a faint but thoughtful smile. He understood the importance of assessing every ninja who showed promise. His Spirit Transformation gave him a unique advantage, but it also came with immense risk. As someone always vigilant of potential allies and threats, he couldn't ignore someone like Sal, who had already proven himself in the field.

— "I'm Kaito Dan," he said, stepping closer to Sal. "You've got skill, and Tsunade's gratitude speaks volumes. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

Sal, slightly surprised by the cordial approach, bowed respectfully.

— "Thank you, Kaito. I'm just fulfilling my duties, but of course, any help would be greatly appreciated." The interaction was brief, but Sal couldn't help but feel a quiet admiration for Kaito Dan, especially knowing the extent of his abilities. Spirit Transformation was powerful but dangerously flawed, leaving the user's body vulnerable while the soul performed strategic tasks. Sal would never underestimate someone like Kaito.

The conversation continued, but Orochimaru remained silent, as always. His mind was elsewhere—focused on his research and the next strategic moves for both Konoha and his personal ambitions. Yet, as he observed the interaction between Tsunade, Kaito Dan, and Sal, he realized the board was shifting in an interesting way.

With a more resolute expression, Tsunade turned her attention to Orochimaru and his subordinates.

— "Now that everyone is here, we need to discuss the next step. The situation is getting more intense, and failure is not an option." Her voice was steady, filled with determination.

Sal, maintaining his calm smile, knew this was the perfect moment to observe, learn, and, perhaps, once again alter the course of events. With the Change System always in mind, he was ready to do whatever it took to achieve his goals.

The group prepared for what lay ahead, each driven by their own motives. But for Sal, every step forward was another chance to bend the story in his favor as time ticked away and the war showed no sign of relenting.