Naruto: Reborn as Orochimaru

Chapter 58: Chunin Exam

Orochimaru had made significant scientific progress, at least by Konoha's standards. However, he wasn't ready to reveal all of his discoveries just yet. He preferred to keep the more significant results to himself, saving them for the right time or for his own future use. Occasionally, he'd share a minor invention, but nothing that could truly jeopardize his long-term plans.

He knew that his destiny was uncertain. If he were to ever leave the village, he would need powerful tools to protect himself. His re

"A test?" Orochimaru's golden eyes narrowed slightly. "The Chunin Exam?"

"Exactly."

For Orochimaru and his team, C- and D-level missions were of little interest. They were mostly menial tasks, far below their abilities. But higher-level missions often came with skeptical employers people who doubted the capabilities of such young ninjas. Orochimaru recalled the trouble they'd had with Bach, the merchant who had doubted their skills due to their age.

Hiruzen had taken that into account, deciding that it was time for Orochimaru, Tsunade, and Jiraiya to take the Chunin Exam. Once they were promoted to Chunin and donned the official vest, no one would question their competence again.

"Understood," Orochimaru nodded. "We'll take the exam."

To him, the Chunin Exam was merely a formality.

---

After being in this world for so long, Orochimaru had come to understand that the Chunin Exam was quite different from the one depicted in the original story. What most people knew was the politically motivated, inter-village version of the Chunin Exam a grand spectacle designed to showcase military power and foster relations between nations. That version only took place once every few years, and only invited participants from allied or neutral countries.

The real Chunin Exam, however, was much simpler. It was held every six months and was strictly an internal affair, only for Konoha's own ninjas. Any Genin whose Jonin-sensei deemed them ready could participate, regardless of age or background. Some, like Kakashi Hatake, were promoted at an extremely young age, while others, like Might Dai, remained Genin well into their 30s or 40s.

At the training grounds, when Jiraiya heard about the Chunin Exam, he was bursting with excitement.

"Alright! I, Jiraiya sama, will give it my all for the Chunin Exam!" he shouted enthusiastically.

Tsunade rolled her eyes, her head full of frustration at Jiraiya's antics. "That idiot is always so over-enthusiastic."

Orochimaru watched Jiraiya with a contemplative look. He couldn't help but wonder where Jiraiya's boundless energy came from. Was it pure willpower, or did this guy have some kind of hidden stimulant?