"Everyone, today's Jonin meeting mainly focuses on discussing some post-war matters with all of you."
More than two hundred Jonin attended the meeting, except for those tasked outside; all Jonin within the village were present. Once everyone was gathered, Sarutobi Hiruzen started discussing the Jonin meeting's agenda.
Konoha's Kage-level ninja seemed to be all present, except for Tsunade who was away.
There were also many who possessed Jonin-level strength but couldn't attend, such as those from the Uchiha Race or the Hyuga Clan's branch family; for civilian ninjas or small clan ninjas, applying for the Jonin assessment was relatively easy, but it was much harder for these large clans.
Each time they applied, there was either no suitable task or they had to wait in line; but this excuse was indeed effective because Jonin assessments require consideration of many aspects, and tasks are more challenging or complex than typical B-Class tasks.
Uchiha Yoichi had just seen Kakashi upon arriving; in the short span of a few days, this kid had passed the Jonin assessment.
But upon reflection, it was normal; as long as there were suitable tasks, becoming a Jonin within two days wasn't surprising. Moreover, Kakashi inherently had the strength of a Jonin. Now with the Two-Tomoe Sharingan, although it consumed his Chakra, in short-term combat, the Sharingan was a powerful addition for Kakashi.
"Grass Village and Hidden Waterfall Village have decided to send envoys to sign peace agreements with us, scheduled for half a month later. However, Hidden Rock Village and Hidden Cloud Village remain silent, neither planning to concede nor intending to sign peace agreements...."
"Even though Hidden Mist Village and Hidden Sand Village fought fiercely, Hidden Mist Village still has intentions toward us. Recently, quite a few Hidden Mist Ninjas appeared at the border of the Land of Waves and our country, even seen amidst the ruins of the Land of Whirlpools...."
What Sarutobi Hiruzen mentioned seemed important, but these Jonin had little opportunity to interject, essentially making it 'empty talk'!
However, Uchiha Yoichi understood, as the most startling news was always left for last.
"The last item, which should be the most important thing today."
Sarutobi Hiruzen paused briefly at this point, surveying all the Jonin in the room, then continued, "There has been a rumor some time ago that the village is selecting the Fourth Generation Hokage. This is not a rumor; today's Jonin meeting is mainly due to this matter. So, next, let's proceed with the election of the Fourth Generation Hokage."
Wow!
Many Jonin who already knew didn't react, but some just found out about this sudden news, naturally showing surprised expressions.
Sarutobi Hiruzen continued, "Let's start with nominations; mainly based on three references: war achievements, strength, and task history, we'll choose several nominations for others to vote on, and finally submit them to the Daimyo Mansion, thus selecting the Fourth Generation Hokage."
Theoretically, any Jonin could participate in the Hokage selection.
However, to save time, there were several requirements for the Jonin wishing to participate.
"I propose Lord Jiraiya."
Yamanaka Haiichi was the first to speak up, raising his hand and saying, "Lord Jiraiya, in terms of both strength and merits, is more than capable of assuming the role as Fourth Generation Hokage, and Lord Jiraiya is also one of the Sannin...."
"Haiichi, thank you for your trust, but it's better not to choose me. My shortcomings are pretty clear, not suited to becoming Hokage, haha...."
Jiraiya interrupted Yamanaka Haiichi before he finished and then spoke somewhat solemnly, "I nominate my disciple, Namikaze Minato."
Even though he's still young, his resolve to become Hokage is sincere, and Minato's strength and abilities surpass those of me, his teacher."
Sarutobi Hiruzen then responded, "Alright, since you don't want it, then we'll count Namikaze Minato. Are there any others?"
"I recommend Jonin Sakumo Hatake."
A civilian Jonin spoke out, sitting further back and standing up to make the nomination proactively.
"Senior Sakumo, whether in terms of strength or capability, commands my utmost respect. I believe Senior Sakumo could compete for the Fourth Generation Hokage."
Sarutobi Hiruzen and Danzo exchanged glances with Jonin Sakumo, but seeing him not immediately refuse, they were somewhat puzzled.
Both believed Sakumo Hatake wasn't interested in becoming Hokage; upon returning, he mostly stayed home, except for helping Kakashi with his Jonin assessment.
Why would he have this ambition?
But seeing Jonin Sakumo not reject it like Jiraiya, Sarutobi Hiruzen had to say, "Sakumo is also outstanding, he will be included in the Hokage nominees."
This unexpected turn of events made Sarutobi Hiruzen feel uneasy, but he stabilized his thoughts and continued to ask, "Are there any others? Self-nominations are also allowed."
"I recommend Orochimaru."
Danzo couldn't help but speak at this point, "Orochimaru's strength and task history...."
"Thank you, Danzo-sama, for your esteem, but I'm not suited to being Hokage; the reason... should be the same as Jiraiya's, personally not well-suited indeed."
Orochimaru said with a smile and then glanced at Sarutobi Hiruzen, continuing, "I also nominate Lord Sakumo since he's already been recommended."
Sarutobi Hiruzen's complexion darkened, as this move by Orochimaru only made him feel the situation was slipping from his grasp.
"I recommend Yang Clan Leader...."
"Put your hand down, Mr. Giken, my qualifications are still shallow, besides strength, there are aspects I need to learn. Since Senior Sakumo has been recommended, no need to nominate me."