Under Orochimaru's highly methodical and scheduled way of life, the one-month preparation period quickly passed.
To his surprise—but also completely within reason—a document nominating Orochimaru for exam-free graduation, put forward by his homeroom teacher Mikawa in collaboration with several other instructors, was personally reviewed and approved by the Hokage Aide, Hiruzen Sarutobi.
This news quickly spread throughout the village of Konoha. People talked everywhere about "Orochimaru being the number one genius of the young generation," making the six-year-old Orochimaru immensely popular.
Naturally, some arrogant and unconvinced youths from various clans, who prided themselves on their own talent, refused to accept this. However, upon hearing the story that Hatake Sakumo of the Hatake clan had been overwhelmingly defeated by Orochimaru and was still recovering at home, their elders quickly suppressed any dissent.
Orochimaru, who had originally expected to exert more effort, found things much quieter. However, the rumor that Hatake Sakumo was still recovering at home made him feel a subtle sense of unease. He vaguely guessed at the implications of the story.
Graduation day was a beautiful, sunny day. Although Orochimaru had been approved for graduation without taking the test, he still sent a Shadow Clone to handle the formalities and gather information about his assigned Jōnin Leader.
"Orochimaru" (the clone) timed his arrival at the Academy perfectly: just as Jiraiya was taking the final written exam. Looking through the window, he saw the white-haired Jiraiya, conspicuous in the crowd, scratching his head and desperately racking his brain, which drew a faint smile from Orochimaru.
Another person in the classroom also caught "Orochimaru's" attention. It was a child the same age as himself, sitting near the window. He had sea-blue hair and an exceptionally handsome and gentle appearance. When people looked at this child, they easily felt warmth and closeness, as if the child radiated a faint, gentle, sunny aura that brought comfort.
"Dan," "Orochimaru" softly murmured the child's name, his dark-golden eyes showing a complex emotion.
Just then, Mikawa, who was supervising the exam, walked over. Seeing "Orochimaru" arrive in his Shadow Clone state, Mikawa felt both a bit helpless and gratified, after all, this was his student, and he felt a certain pride in him.
Mikawa came to "Orochimaru's" side and greeted him warmly: "Orochimaru!"
"Orochimaru" pulled his gaze away, instantly suppressing his complex emotions. He displayed an appropriate and deeply grateful attitude, bowing respectfully to Mikawa: "Teacher Mikawa, thank you for your nomination!"
Mikawa waved his hand, smiling. "Heh heh, even without my recommendation, I believe you would have passed easily based on your skill, right, Orochimaru! You're still up to your old tricks, using a Shadow Clone to come to school!"
"Heh heh!" "Orochimaru" gave an awkward laugh.
Mikawa knew Orochimaru well enough to realize he wouldn't come to school for no reason. He asked, "Do you have something specific in mind? Tell me, perhaps your teacher can help you with something!"
"Teacher Mikawa, do you know who my Jōnin Leader will be?" "Orochimaru" looked up and asked Mikawa.
Mikawa was taken aback by the question. His expression stiffened, and his eyes flickered, as if hesitating for a moment. Then, he looked left and right, confirming they were alone. He patted "Orochimaru's" back and said, "Come with me to my office, and I'll tell you."
Seeing this level of caution, and coupling it with the earlier incident of his exam-free nomination, "Orochimaru" already had a strong guess about his Jōnin Leader.
Mikawa brought Orochimaru to his office, motioned for him to sit opposite him, and then said seriously, "The village normally keeps this kind of information confidential to maintain fairness. However, you are the most talented student I have ever taught, and I don't mind telling you the truth. Lord Hiruzen has decided to take you on as his disciple and will personally lead your team and mentor you!"
A flash of excitement burst in "Orochimaru's" respectful eyes. He thought, As expected, it's Hiruzen-sensei. It seems the efforts I've made these past days were not wasted. My plan has advanced a major step!
"Orochimaru" stood up and bowed, thanking him: "Thank you, Teacher Mikawa!"
Mikawa also seemed very happy. He continued, "Heh heh, Jiraiya will also be on your team, and one other descendant from a major clan will join as well! You must work hard and not disappoint Lord Hiruzen's dedication!"
"Yes, Teacher Mikawa!" "Orochimaru" did not disappoint Mikawa, his face filled with emotion.
The teacher and student then chatted briefly about life matters before "Orochimaru" bowed and took his leave. Seeing that Jiraiya's exam would still take some time, he simply dispelled the Shadow Clone Jutsu.
The Real Orochimaru, who had been engaged in simple taijutsu training at home in anticipation of meeting his Jōnin Leader in the afternoon, suddenly stopped his movements as a familiar stream of information flooded his mind. He closed his eyes and quietly absorbed the data.
When he opened his eyes, his dark-golden snake pupils were filled with the confidence of having everything under control.
Finally, just like in my previous life, I have become Hiruzen's disciple.
Orochimaru knew that Hiruzen becoming the Third Hokage was virtually guaranteed. With the status of being the Hokage's disciple, Orochimaru's reputation in the village would surely reach a new level, which was crucial for his subsequent series of plans.
With this thought, Orochimaru couldn't help but lick his scarlet lips.
At noon, Orochimaru invited Jiraiya, who had passed the graduation exam by sheer luck, and little Maji out for a celebratory meal.
In the afternoon, Orochimaru (now wearing the Konoha headband) and Jiraiya arrived early at the classroom. As expected, Orochimaru and Jiraiya were assigned to the same team. Mikawa then led the two of them to the rooftop of the Hokage Office building.
Jiraiya, having been brought there without explanation, was full of frustration. He asked impatiently, "Orochimaru, who do you think our team leader will be? They're being so mysterious!"
Orochimaru looked up, standing quietly and gazing at the magnificent and majestic Hokage Mountain. Hearing Jiraiya's question, he calmly replied, "Just wait patiently. You'll know soon enough."
They didn't wait long. A figure suddenly appeared before Orochimaru and Jiraiya.
He wore a neat, well-kept Jōnin vest, and his face was as kind as when Orochimaru had seen him at the hospital that day. However, the presence emanating from him was an overpowering authority, completely unlike before.
It was Hiruzen Sarutobi!
As he stood before Orochimaru and Jiraiya, Orochimaru faintly glimpsed the dominant demeanor of the future Third Hokage, the God of Shinobi.
NOTE:
New chapters drop One times a day, every Monday through Sunday! Plus, you have the power to unlock more: we'll release One bonus chapters for every 100 votes! Let's get this story moving together.
Support me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/MistaQuartz
Explore up to 10 chapters in advance!