Summoned by the Hokage

News of the joint Chunin Ninja Exams held by the Five Great Shinobi Villages swept through Konoha's new generation of ninja like an invisible storm. Everyone knew this was no longer a simple promotion exam for Genin, but a covert contest between the Five Great Nations.

Late that night, Tsukimi went alone to Orochimaru's residence.

The underground laboratory was brightly lit. Cold metal instruments stood in neat rows, and a faint scent of herbs lingered in the air.

Tsukimi skipped the pleasantries and got straight to the point. "Orochimaru-sensei, the results of your work on physical activation should be ready by now, right?"

Orochimaru wasted no time. He began preparing the medicine for Tsukimi, pale green liquid flowing through a test tube, clear and free of any violent aura.

"This is the gentler physical-activation medicine I developed."

Orochimaru handed the medicine to Tsukimi and explained its properties in his raspy voice.

"I removed the side effects of ordinary forbidden drugs. It won't damage the body's meridians or undermine its foundations, but it also won't give you a sudden surge of power. Instead, it gently stimulates cellular activity over time, speeds physical recovery, and strengthens the muscles. Little by little, it breaks through the limits of a ninja's body."

As he spoke, he took out a formula listing the herbs, brewing method, and precise proportions, then handed that to Tsukimi as well.

"The only requirement is that you keep taking it long-term. Its effects build up day by day until your body undergoes a complete transformation."

"I prepared one dose for you today. You'll need to make the rest yourself. The formula is complete, and you won't need laboratory equipment. Common medicinal herbs found throughout the Shinobi World will do."

Tsukimi took the formula, gently swirled the liquid in the test