The Land of Rain.
After traveling for two days and two nights, Xuandou and Kurenai finally reached the land drenched in rain all year round.
The sky was gloomy, and fine rain fell in endless, silken threads.
Distant mountains lay shrouded in a curtain of rain, too hazy to make out clearly.
Moisture filled the air, and the waterlogged earth felt soft beneath their feet.
Xuandou stopped and turned to Kurenai.
"We're about to enter the Land of Rain proper. We could run into enemies at any moment."
"Hide in Yomotsu Space for now. It'll be easier for me to move alone."
Knowing that her strength would only make her a burden if she went along, Kurenai obediently nodded.
With a wave of his hand, Xuandou drew Kurenai into Yomotsu Space.
Standing alone in the rain, he began considering his next move.
The Land of Rain was currently ruled by Hanzo of the Salamander.
Akatsuki was still lurking in the shadows, gathering strength and waiting for its chance.
Finding them would not be easy.
He did not even know where Akatsuki's base was, let alone how to rescue Yuhi Shinku and the others.
But he was certain of one thing: since Akatsuki was preparing to launch a coup, it had to keep track of Hanzō's movements.
They would definitely have someone stationed near Amegakure, watching Hanzō's every move.
As long as he found that watcher, he could follow the trail to Akatsuki's base.
Without further hesitation, Xuandou slipped into the shadows and headed stealthily toward Amegakure.
Amegakure, near the central building.
Xuandou spent most of the day lying in wait in the shadows of a secluded alley.
Rain dripped from the eaves, forming a curtain of water before him.
His gaze stayed fixed on the people passing along the street,