Kapitel 177: Chapter 177
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"Everyone, today's Jonin meeting is mainly to discuss some post-war matters with you," Hiruzen began, addressing the more than two hundred Jonin present.
The only absentees were those on missions; otherwise, all the village's Jonin had gathered. Notably, most of the elite ninja, except Tsunade, were present.
Many Jonin, especially those from prominent clans like Uchiha and Hyuga, were often overlooked for Jonin exams, unlike their civilian and lesser-known counterparts.
It wasn't unusual for requests to be delayed or dismissed, citing the need for more suitable missions or other excuses, making it challenging for them to advance.
As Yoichi entered, he noticed Kakashi among the attendees. In just a few days, Kakashi had passed the Jonin exam, which wasn't surprising given his skills and the presence of the two-tomoe Sharingan, which, despite its chakra drain, enhanced his combat effectiveness.
"The Hidden Grass Village and Hidden Waterfall Village have decided to send envoys to sign peace treaties with us, scheduled for half a month from now. However, there has been no movement from the Hidden Stone Village and the Hidden Cloud Village. They neither intend to surrender nor sign a peace treaty," Hiruzen continued.
"Additionally, although the Mist Village and the Sand Village have been fiercely fighting, the Mist Village seems to have its eyes on us. Recently, several Mist ninja have been spotted near the borders of the Land of Waves and our own country, even near the ruins of the Land of Whirlpools."
These were significant points, but there was little opportunity for the Jonin to interject, rendering much of the discussion somewhat perfunctory. Yoichi understood, knowing the most important matter would be revealed last.
"And now, for the final and most important issue," Hiruzen paused, scanning the room before continuing. "There have been rumors about the village selecting the Fourth Hokage. These are not just rumors. The primary reason for today's Jonin meeting is to commence the election for the Fourth Hokage."
A murmur ran through the room. While some Jonin had anticipated this, others were visibly surprised by the sudden announcement.
"Let's begin with the nominations," Hiruzen said. "Candidates will be considered based on their merits, strength, and mission records. Once we have the nominations, we'll proceed to voting, and finally, the results will be presented to the Daimyo for approval."
In theory, any Jonin could participate in the Hokage selection. However, to streamline the process, several criteria needed to be met.
"I nominate Jiraiya-sama," Yamanaka Inoichi spoke first, raising his hand. "Jiraiya-sama has the strength and accomplishments to serve as the Fourth Hokage. Additionally, he is one of the legendary Sannin."
"Thank you for your confidence, Inoichi, but I'm not suitable for the Hokage position," Jiraiya interrupted. "I recommend my student, Namikaze Minato. He is young, but his commitment to becoming Hokage is genuine. His abilities and strength surpass my own."
Hiruzen took over, "Since Jiraiya is unwilling, we'll consider Minato. Are there any other nominations?"
"I nominate Hatake Sakumo," a civilian Jonin spoke up from the back. "Sakumo-senpai's abilities and leadership have always inspired me. I believe he is also a worthy candidate for the Fourth Hokage."
Hiruzen and the others exchanged glances, noting Sakumo's lack of immediate refusal. This was unexpected, given that Sakumo had previously shown no interest in the position.
"Sakumo is indeed an exceptional candidate," Hiruzen acknowledged, adding him to the list.
The atmosphere grew tense as the nominations continued.
"I nominate Orochimaru," Danzo stated, unable to remain silent. "Orochimaru's strength and mission record—"
"Thank you for considering me, Danzo-sama, but I believe I'm not suited for the Hokage role, much like Jiraiya," Orochimaru interjected, his gaze briefly meeting Sarutobi Hiruzen's before adding, "I also support Sakumo-kun."
Hiruzen's expression darkened. Orochimaru's endorsement of Sakumo further complicated the situation.
"I nominate Yoichi-sama," a voice from the Uchiha clan attempted, but Yoichi cut him off.
"No, I'm not suitable. I still have much to learn. With Sakumo-senpai nominated, there's no need to nominate me," Yoichi said, a pre-planned move to sway neutral Jonin towards supporting Sakumo.
With Jiraiya, Orochimaru, and even Yoichi deferring to Sakumo, it became evident who the most suitable candidate was. Hiruzen realized the true strategy at play—it wasn't about the Uchiha clan seizing the Hokage seat but ensuring an ally took it.
"Sakumo, are you willing to be considered?" Hiruzen asked, and seeing no objection from Sakumo, he added, "If there are no more nominations, the candidates for the Fourth Hokage will be Namikaze Minato and Hatake Sakumo."
The voting began. As the ballots were counted, Hiruzen's heart sank. Minato, though excellent, was up against Sakumo, whose record and endorsements made him the clear favorite.
The final count revealed Minato with 81 votes and Sakumo with 143—a significant lead.
"The results are in. The Daimyo will arrive tomorrow to finalize the selection," Hiruzen announced, maintaining a composed exterior despite his internal turmoil.
Yoichi returned home, confident the election was effectively decided. With Sakumo as Hokage, the village would no longer hinder the Uchiha clan's Jonin applications.
"You're back," Mina greeted Yoichi with a smile, her belly showing her advanced pregnancy.
"Yes, the Fourth Hokage election took place today. The final decision will be made tomorrow," Yoichi informed her, spotting Rin approaching.
Rin, looking a bit shy, bowed and greeted Yoichi. "Thank you for letting me stay for dinner, Yoichi-sama. I have a favor to ask, if you don't mind."
Mina nudged Rin, encouraging her to speak up. "Rin, go ahead. Yoichi-sama doesn't mind."
Taking a deep breath, Rin began, "I've heard that you have ways to rapidly increase one's strength, Yoichi-sama. I want to become stronger, so I was hoping you could guide me."
Yoichi feigned confusion, "You want to become stronger? But you're a medical ninja. Why the sudden need for strength?"
"Because a medical ninja must have the strength to protect themselves and not become a burden to their team," Rin replied with determination. "I don't want to be the reason my friends get hurt or killed. Please, Yoichi-sama, help me."
Seeing her resolve, Yoichi nodded. "I understand. Your determination is commendable. I can teach you. Conventional training methods can be learned from any Jonin, but I have another method that suits someone like you."
(End of Chapter)
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