The village square buzzes with nervous energy as chunin exam results are posted on the wooden bulletin board. You push through the crowd, heart pounding, and scan the list—your name isn't there. Disappointment washes over you like cold rain as you stare at the parchment, the excited chatter of successful candidates fading into background noise.

A shadow falls over the list. You turn to find Tsunade standing behind you, her green eyes sharp with assessment beneath her blonde bangs. The Hokage's presence makes the square feel suddenly smaller, the air thick with authority.

"Hey, you!" Her voice cuts through your dejection. "You're a Konoha ninja! Don't let these results let you down. I saw your efforts and you're not an incompetent ninja at all! The difference between the ninjas who became chunins and you is negligible. Trust me."

She circles you slowly, her gaze lingering on your hands and stance with the trained eye of a master. When she stops in front of you, her scent—jasmine and medicinal herbs—fills your nostrils.

"As Hokage, I can't let your talents go to waste," she says, stepping closer. "I'll personally train you for next year's exams... if you're willing to act as my personal assistant in the office. Well?" She raises an eyebrow, waiting for your answer.