Chapter 195: Unanimous Approval
Jiraiya called an emergency meeting that evening.
Utatane Koharu and Homura Mitokado's positions as Elders had been revoked by the Second Hokage; the two were now joining Hiruzen Sarutobi in retirement.
All of Hidden Leaf Village's middle and high-level officials gathered in the meeting room.
Jiraiya sat in the primary seat, with four empty seats at the same table.
These were the seats Minato's era had reserved for the four advisor elders, though it was unlikely they would ever return.
Jiraiya scanned the two rows of long tables in front of him; it seemed everyone who should be there had arrived.
"Utatane Koharu and Homura Mitokado have resigned from their positions as Elders to enjoy their later years. In this meeting, the first thing we need to discuss is who should take over as advisor elders."
"Everyone, speak freely."
No one said a word.
They looked at each other, and finally, their gaze focused on the Jonin Commander, Nara Shikaku.
Nara Shikaku rubbed his forehead; what a drag!
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the crowd before landing on Jiraiya:
"I believe that as Hidden Leaf Village is currently in a period of transition and reconstruction, candidates for advisor elders need more than just ability and seniority. They need strong prestige and the power to unite people—someone who can stabilize hearts, bring all parties together, and bring tangible, positive change to the Village."
"Therefore, I propose..."
Shikaku's voice rose slightly, speaking clearly,
"We can, and should, invite Lady Tsunade back to serve as an advisor elder."
Jiraiya's right hand unconsciously stroked his chin, a thoughtful light flashing in his eyes.
Shikaku's proposal clearly struck a chord with him and aligned with many people's recognition of Tsunade's abilities.
He was currently tied down; pulling Tsunade back wouldn't be a bad idea.
Perhaps by then, Shodai-sama and Lady Mito could keep her in check and get her to gamble less.
"Invite Tsunade back?"
Jiraiya repeated, scanning the room.
"What does everyone think... of Shikaku's proposal?"
After a brief silence.
"Agreed."
Hyuga Hiashi was the first to speak, his voice steady.
"If it's Lady Tsunade, it is well-deserved."
Shibi Aburame adjusted his sunglasses and briefly echoed the sentiment.
"I approve."
Inoichi Yamanaka nodded.
Following them, Inuzuka Tsume, Akimichi Choza, and others also voiced their agreement.
Kakashi and Might Guy exchanged a look and expressed their support as well.
The proposal received unanimous approval, with no one raising any objections.
Jiraiya nodded with satisfaction and recorded the resolution, reminding them casually, "Good, everyone knows the process now. For similar personnel votes in the future, just use a show of hands; it's more efficient."
He didn't dwell on the first topic; Hidden Leaf Village needed efficient decision-making right now.
He quickly flipped to the next document by his side, cleared his throat, and brought up the second topic.
"The second topic concerns the promotions from the Joint Chunin Exams, which were interrupted recently, but for which conclusions can be drawn based on combat performance and comprehensive evaluation."
His gaze swept across the Jonin present, especially the team leaders:
"After observing their battles, reviewing mission records, and urgent discussions within the Jonin Division and various departments, the following five Genin have demonstrated strength, tactical literacy, leadership, or special contributions beyond the Genin level during this incident, meeting the standards for promotion to Chunin."
Jiraiya read out five names:
"They are—Uzumaki Naruto, Uchiha Sasuke, Nara Shikamaru, Hyuga Neji, and Shino Aburame."
As these five names were read, a slight, knowing murmur filled the meeting room.
No one was surprised.
Uzumaki Naruto went without saying; the power he displayed against Orochimaru, in facing powerful enemies, and even in the subsequent 'miracles' had long since surpassed that of a Genin, and even most Jonin.
It would be strange if he wasn't promoted.
Uchiha Sasuke's strength was also noteworthy; he had held back many Sand and Otogakure ninja later on, and his individual combat power was exceptional.
Nara Shikamaru's calm command during the chaos, his tactical deployment, and his precise support for his comrades fully demonstrated his potential as a strategist and commander.
Hyuga Neji used the advantages of the Byakugan for reconnaissance and sentry duty, and his excellent performance in organizing the Hyuga clan members to resist the outsiders proved his strength and sense of responsibility as the top Genius of the Hyuga Branch House.
Although Shino Aburame kept a low profile, his unique Insect-user abilities played an irreplaceable role in reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and battlefield environment disruption. His steady and efficient combat style was also recognized.
"Regarding the nominations of these five Genin for promotion to Chunin."
Jiraiya asked according to the procedure.
"Does anyone have any objections?"
He paused and added the voting method: "Please raise your hand if you have an objection."
The meeting room was quiet for a moment.
Everyone's eyes met again, but this time, there was only recognition and a sense of "of course." The promotion of these five was beyond reproach, whether in terms of strength, contribution, or symbolic meaning.
After a while, not a single person raised their hand.
Unanimous approval by default.
"Good."
Jiraiya recorded it again.
"The promotion process will be followed up by the relevant departments later. Now, onto the third topic."
His tone paused slightly, and his expression became more solemn than before, even carrying a hint of anticipation.
"It concerns... the promotion of Uzumaki Naruto to Jonin."
Promoting to Jonin right after becoming a Chunin?
But with Naruto's strength, it was entirely possible.
You don't agree?
Then go tell that to Naruto while he's connected to Kurama!
Jiraiya continued, "The Shodai, the Second, Lady Mito, and Uzumaki Kushina are the recommenders. In accordance with the Principle of recusal, they will abstain from this voting round. The decision will be made by those of you present."
He left the decision entirely to Hidden Leaf Village's middle and high-level officials.
Jiraiya leaned back in his chair and raised his own right hand, leaving the stage to the others.
"Those in favor of Uzumaki Naruto's promotion to Jonin, please raise your hand."
As the words fell.
There was almost no hesitation.
Inoichi Yamanaka and Hyuga Hiashi raised their hands without hesitation.
Nara Shikaku raised his hand; he was clear about what Naruto's power meant for Hidden Leaf Village's future.
Shibi Aburame raised his hand; he had thought about recommending Naruto after he passed, but you really are excellent, Naruto!
Akimichi Choza, Inuzuka Tsume... representatives of the various clans raised their hands one after another.
Kakashi raised his hand.
Might Guy raised his arm high with vigor, his blood boiling: "This is what youth is all about! Naruto is more than qualified!"
He looked around.
No one opposed, and no one abstained.
Seeing this scene, the last trace of apprehension in Jiraiya's heart vanished.
Since he was a child, Jiraiya knew there were many idiots in Hidden Leaf Village.
That was why he was reluctant to stay in the Village, for fear of catching it.
Fortunately, no one's head was muddled this time.
He took a deep breath and announced loudly:
"Good! Unanimously passed!"
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