Xia Li glanced around at the gathered jōnin. Among them were many familiar faces—Hiashi Hyuga, Shikaku Nara, Choza Akimichi, Inoichi Yamanaka, and representatives from the major clans.
Unfazed, Xia Li got straight to the point.
"You all know who I am, so I won't introduce myself. Next, on behalf of the Hokage, I'll outline the issues Konoha must address."
"Before discussing the Sand Village, we must first talk about Konoha's reputation. Although the counterattack went smoothly, the Chūnin Exams we hosted were undeniably a failure."
"No matter the reason, this has damaged Konoha's reputation. Every nation will inevitably question our strength."
"Therefore, our next step is to demonstrate Konoha's power to all countries. We must take on more B-rank and above missions, and ensure both high success rates and improved efficiency."
"As for team assignments: jōnin squads of two to three can take along their own chūnin and genin. Solo or paired jōnin may also bring members from their teams."
"In short, everyone must act immediately—accept missions and complete them excellently. Contribute to Konoha and overcome this crisis together."
No one objected. Many jōnin nodded in agreement—especially those from civilian backgrounds, for whom missions were vital sources of income and resources.
Seeing no opposition, Xia Li continued.
"As for the Sand Village, the Third Hokage's intention is to avoid war between villages."
"Hmph, naive!" Danzo sneered. "Do you think they'll be grateful if you forgive them? They broke the agreement once—they'll do it again!"
The two advisors showed interest, watching Xia Li with approval. Though the idea came from the Third Hokage, Xia Li was the one presenting it.
"Don't worry, I'm not finished," Xia Li said coldly, not even sparing Danzo a glance.
"You—!"
"You're speaking on behalf of the Hokage," Xia Li cut him off sharply, her gaze icy. "Yet you and Root took no action in this plan. You have the least right to speak. Why not ask everyone here—who did nothing, or allowed their subordinates to act unchecked?"
Danzo gritted his teeth as the room's attention shifted toward him. If Xia Li hadn't brought it up, no one would have mentioned it—but now, their perception of him had clearly changed.
He tried to defend himself with talk of "protecting Konoha's foundations," but it rang hollow.
The Third Hokage gave a bitter smile. He knew Xia Li was dissatisfied—especially after he had refused her earlier request. In truth, even he himself felt some disappointment.
Xia Li continued.
"Although we will not go to war with the Sand Village, we cannot forgive them lightly—for the sake of both Konoha's dignity and interests."
The advisors frowned but chose to listen.
"First, we must return the One-Tail to them. Keeping it would make us direct enemies of the Sand Village. Moreover, we already possess the Nine-Tails—the strongest tailed beast. Retaining another would alarm the other villages."
"So no matter what, the One-Tail must be returned."
The advisors relaxed slightly, though Danzo's expression darkened.
"However, we won't return it unconditionally. The Sand Village must agree to one condition: they must help eliminate Orochimaru."
"The Sound Village he created is not truly a village—it is merely a rogue base. Both Konoha and the Sand Village can deny its legitimacy."
"Thus, what we destroy is simply a rogue ninja stronghold that manipulated them."
Xia Li looked at the advisors. "Any objections?"
They exchanged glances and nodded. This was acceptable.
"Additionally, the reward for eliminating this rogue base will be split—60% for Konoha, 40% for the Sand Village."
"Will they agree to that?" Koharu asked.
"They won't—at first," Xia Li replied calmly. "So we begin by demanding compensation for their breach of contract."
"The Sand Village is in poor financial condition. If they cannot pay, they will have little choice but to accept our terms."
"If not for the risk of pushing them too far, I'd take all the benefits myself."
Her bluntness left many present speechless. She was clearly not someone to be taken lightly.
"Finally," Xia Li continued, "the Sand Village has suffered heavy losses. Their combat strength is weakened. We will send one allied ninja to assist in the operation."
"This ninja's role is not only to help, but to display Konoha's strength. Their power must be overwhelming—enough to instill fear and prevent future betrayals."
"And that person will be—"
"Me," Danzo interrupted.
"This is my chance to make up for my earlier inaction."
"You are strong," Xia Li said with a faint smile, "but… you're not exactly young. Even if you intimidate them, how long will that last?"
Danzo glared. "Then who do you suggest?"
"Myself," Xia Li said.
"You?" Danzo scoffed—then suddenly froze.
Xia Li casually took out a specially made kunai—the Flying Thunder God kunai once used by Minato.
Everyone immediately understood.
With that technique alone, even without overwhelming destructive power, the deterrence would be immense—especially given Xia Li's youth.
"So there's no need to trouble you," Xia Li added lightly. "After all, you carry the heavy responsibility of protecting Konoha's 'roots,' don't you?"
Her sarcasm was unmistakable.
Danzo fell silent, then finally stood.
"Hiruzen… you'll regret this."
He left without another word.
With that, the meeting concluded in agreement. Plans were finalized, and responsibilities assigned.
Later, only Xia Li, Jiraiya, and the Third Hokage remained.
"You didn't have to target Danzo so directly," the Third said with a sigh.
"He's beneficial to the village?" Xia Li interrupted coldly. "I don't see it."
"You've been too lenient with him."
Jiraiya nodded. "She's right. Your tolerance has caused too many problems."
The Third Hokage sighed deeply.
Then he turned to Jiraiya.
"You know my condition… So, Jiraiya—you will be the next Hokage."
Jiraiya froze. "What?! What about Xia Li?"
"She's too young. You only need to serve for a few years—until she comes of age."
Jiraiya tried to refuse, but the Third snapped:
"Then should I give it to Danzo instead?!"
Jiraiya immediately fell silent.
After a moment, he said, "What about Tsunade?"
The Third hesitated.
"Tsunade is not in the village… and whether she would accept is uncertain."
For the first time, he felt true regret.
Why hadn't he kept Xia Li by his side… instead of handing her over to Jiraiya?
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