"This is..."
"Biological samples from near Dragon Cave." Orochimaru's voice was hoarse like a snake's. "I thought you might be interested."
Neji's pupils narrowed slightly. Dragon Cave was one of the Three Great Sage Regions, as renowned as Mount Myoboku and Wet Bone Forest. The meaning behind Orochimaru's gift was self-evident. He carefully tucked the scroll into his sleeve. "Thank you. I'll study it carefully."
The seven of them sat around a low table in the center of Stillness Garden. Fine wine and sumptuous dishes looked especially tempting beneath the warm lantern light. As the host, Neji filled everyone's cups.
"First, thank you all for taking time out of your busy schedules to attend my promotion celebration." Neji raised his cup, his voice calm yet sincere. "Over these years in Konoha, I've been fortunate to receive all your care and support."
"Cheers!" Jiraiya was the first to respond, tilting back his head and draining his cup in one gulp. "Ah—good wine! You really know how to enjoy yourself, Neji!"
Tsunade rolled her eyes at him and took a small sip of sake. "I heard you developed a new Bloodline Limit during your mission? Crystal Release?"
Neji nodded and briefly described the battle in the canyon. When he spoke of Crystal World Advent, everyone except the ANBU teammates who already knew the details showed shocked expressions.
"A Bloodline Limit..." Fanatical light flickered in Orochimaru's eyes. "Neji-kun, your talent truly inspires envy."
Jiraiya slapped the table and rose to his feet. "That's incredible! I've decided! Tomorrow, I'm going to Mount Myoboku to train in Sage Art! I absolutely can't let you leave me too far behind!"
"Mount Myoboku?" Neji's heart jolted, but his expression remained calm. "You passed the toads' trial?"
Jiraiya puffed out his chest smugly. "Of course! Lord Fukasaku said