After discussing it with his father, Mitokado Homura, the Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, summoned Satoru alone.
Strictly speaking, Satoru was fairly familiar with the old Hokage, whether from his previous memories or his father's connections.
At the entrance to the Hokage's office, Satoru saw Orochimaru stepping out after opening the door.
"Tch, I knew it. The old Hokage was going to investigate me first."
Orochimaru chuckled and shook his head, patting Satoru on the shoulder.
"That was only natural... if not for the advisor's connection, the Anbu would have begun investigating every detail of your life already."
"After all, Teacher Sarutobi is the Hokage, and one renowned for his prudence."
"Let him investigate however he likes..." Satoru shrugged indifferently. "I already said my greatest wish is to stay home until I die."
"If he isn't reassured, I can just keep squatting at home forever."
"..."
Orochimaru felt that not even Jiraiya had ever given him such a sense of helplessness.
"Hehe... kid Satoru, it seems you have some grievances against this old man."
The door opened from within, and a choking wave of smoke nearly knocked Satoru off his feet.
"Cough, cough, cough..."
Satoru stared in horror at the Third Hokage, Sarutobi Hiruzen, who had stepped out to open the door, causing a trace of embarrassment to flash across the old man's face.
"Cough... my mistake. I forgot you aren't an adult yet."
"No, Teacher Sarutobi. Even as an adult, I still wouldn't be used to that habit of yours."
Orochimaru rarely made such a deadpan joke. Then, amid Sarutobi Hiruzen's glare and bristling beard, he turned and left.
"Orochimaru can actually tell jokes now... it seems taking on students truly has helped improve his personality."
Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded with satisfaction, then waved a hand and opened the office windows.