An hour later.
Yechen emerged from the meeting room, puzzled.
Tanaka Erito had explained why he had been called back in such a hurry.
It was not because the Rock Ninja had made any unusual moves. Rather, a transfer order had just arrived from the Main Camp, ordering him to return immediately.
The order did not specify what he was to do there, only that he should return as soon as possible.
The unexplained transfer aroused Yechen's suspicions. He doubted this would be a simple matter.
Still, he was not worried. He would deal with whatever came his way. Anyone planning to scheme against him would have to weigh the consequences.
Of course, that was only the worst-case scenario. Perhaps there was something else going on.
Orochimaru missed me!
Ugh, wasn't that a little too sappy?
Yechen smiled self-deprecatingly.
Whatever the case, he would have to be more vigilant from now on.
With his current strength, he would not claim to be invincible, but few could be certain of defeating him. Those few were either dead or sealed away somewhere.
Still, it was better to be cautious, just in case.
He returned to his quarters, packed a few belongings, left instructions with several of his subordinates at the camp, and said goodbye to Hyuga Jingci before leaving the outpost for the Main Camp.
A day earlier.
Konoha's Main Camp in the Land of Rain.
Inside the Command Center.
Orochimaru had just finished the day's official duties. He rubbed his temples wearily, took a sip of water, and was about to return to his quarters to rest.
Yet just as he rose, he paused. A smile touched his lips, as though something was about to happen.
"Heh heh..."
Suddenly, Orochimaru let out an eerie chuckle and said,
"Come out. There's no