Six months into his training, Orochimaru called a special meeting.
"Your progress has been exceptional," Orochimaru said. They sat in his private study. Scrolls everywhere. Research notes covering the walls. "You've mastered techniques in months that take most shinobi years to learn."
"I'm motivated."
"So you keep saying." Orochimaru's eyes gleamed. "But I think there's more to it. You're too prepared, Sasuke-kun. Too ready. As if you knew exactly what training you needed."
Dangerous ground. Sasuke kept his expression neutral.
"I studied the Uchiha records before I left. Read everything I could about power and techniques."
"The Uchiha records were destroyed in the massacre."
"Not all of them. Itachi left some things behind." The lie came smoothly. "I found them. Studied them."
Orochimaru studied him for a long moment. Then smiled. "Perhaps. Or perhaps you're just naturally gifted. Either way, I'm pleased."
He pulled out a scroll. "I have a mission for you. A test of your current abilities."
"What kind of mission?"
"Intelligence gathering. There's a small outpost in the Land of Rice Fields. Konoha shinobi, monitoring our borders. I want you to infiltrate, gather information on their patrol patterns, and return undetected."
Solo mission. This was the test. Prove he could operate independently.
"When do I leave?"
"Tomorrow. You'll have one week to complete the objective." Orochimaru's smile widened. "Don't disappoint me, Sasuke-kun."