The Genin squads out on missions returned to the village one after another, like birds coming home to roost, and more young faces appeared on the streets. Their Elite Jonin also tacitly stopped accepting missions outside the village. Among the experienced ninja, a quiet sense of an approaching storm began to spread.
That afternoon, Toru Kujyo was at home sorting through the ore he had obtained from Raiga Kurosuki, preparing to incorporate it into his plans for forging new Ninja Tools. Suddenly, a loud, piercing hawk cry shattered Konoha's peace. The bird circled high overhead, its call reaching everyone's ears.
"Hm?" Toru Kujyo set down the ore in his hand and cast a sharp glance out the window.
A moment later, figures shot forth from all over the village like arrows loosed from a bow, using the Body Flicker Technique to head straight for the Hokage Building. That was a mobilization signal meant specifically for Jonin.
"Looks like it's about to begin." A knowing smile curved Toru Kujyo's lips.
Sure enough, a short while later, Kurenai Yuhi appeared at the entrance to the Hyuga residence. Looking slightly rushed, she only had time to say, "Kujyo, meet at Training Ground Seven at two this afternoon. I have an important announcement." Then she flickered away again.
Toru Kujyo closed the door, a glint flashing through his eyes. "The Chunin Ninja Exams are finally here?"
Two that afternoon, at Training Ground Seven.
Toru Kujyo, Kiba Inuzuka, Shino Aburame, and Hinata Hyuga arrived on time. Kiba Inuzuka was as boisterous as ever, with Akamaru perched on his head, looking around curiously. Shino Aburame adjusted his sunglasses and stood silently off to one side. Hinata seemed preoccupied, her gaze drifting toward Toru Kujyo from time to time.
"Hey, Kujyo, Hinata, Shino, what do you think