Shadows and Opportunity

Night still blanketed the island, and the first rays of dawn had yet to pierce the dense canopy. A morning breeze swept past, and Ryan slowly opened his eyes, feeling his body slightly stiff from remaining still for so long.

Maintaining Zetsu, Ryan lowered his body and moved swiftly through the forest. With his keen instincts and light steps, he avoided the threats posed by Hisoka, as well as the areas where Hisoka had been active in the original story. His goal was clear: the waterfall area where Leorio had been trapped.

I wonder how the plot has changed now that I've joined it? Ryan thought.

He followed the stream upstream, carefully avoiding any paths where he might be discovered.

About an hour later, Ryan finally caught sight of the waterfall. Its massive torrent thundered against the cliff face, spraying mist everywhere.

But surprisingly, he saw neither Leorio nor any other examinees.

"Looks like Leorio hasn't arrived yet." Ryan was in no hurry. He searched the surrounding area, found some wild fruit to fill his stomach, and chose a concealed spot facing the waterfall. Using the nearby shrubs and rocks for cover, he hid himself. After eating the fruit and taking a sip of water, he checked his slingshot and black stones, confirmed everything was in order, and waited patiently.

Who knew how long he waited? The sun had already climbed high, radiating light and heat. In the distant woods, someone came stumbling and running toward him in a sorry state. Ryan peered through the gaps in the stems and leaves. It was Leorio!

His sweat-soaked shirt clung to his back as Leorio leaned against a rough tree trunk, gasping violently, his lungs burning. Every breath sent pain lancing through the wounds left by the brush. Hisoka's face, painted in