The morning after the Chunin Ninja Exams.
Sunlight streamed through the windows of the Hokage's office, dappling the old wooden desk. The air was faintly scented with tobacco.
Orochimaru stood ramrod straight, like a cold sculpture, and gave Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi a detailed report on the Chunin Ninja Exams.
Hiruzen sat behind the broad desk, holding an elegant pipe and occasionally tapping off the ash. His face was full of shock and confusion.
"You're saying the third round was canceled outright because of that kid Hayato?"
Orochimaru gave a slight nod, his voice calm and firm.
"Yes. But I still have one candidate who meets the requirements for promotion to Chunin: Nara Akiteru."
Hiruzen's brow furrowed slightly. He lowered his head and thought for a moment before asking, "What about the others? Are there any other promising candidates?"
During wartime, the village desperately needed fighters who could stand on their own. Hiruzen knew this better than anyone.
Orochimaru deliberated for a moment, as if weighing his options, then finally spoke.
"The other two members of Nara Akiteru's team can just about meet the passing mark."
"Fine. I trust your judgment."
Hiruzen gently set down his pipe, picked up a seal, and solemnly stamped the spaces after four names on the list.
Then he handed the list to his assistant, signaling for them to take care of the remaining formalities.
"Thank you for your hard work this time, Orochimaru." Hiruzen looked at his most accomplished student, his eyes full of pride and hope.
"It was nothing. I'll take my leave." Orochimaru replied coolly, then turned and left the office without further pleasantries.
Hiruzen walked to the window and gazed at the Hokage Rock in the distance, his heart full of emotion.
"The Uchiha Clan has produced a true genius. I