148 Ch-148 State of mind.

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Tsunade directed her gaze toward Shikamaru, acknowledging that he stood as the most fitting candidate for the captaincy of the upcoming mission. Not only did he possess the unwavering resolve necessary for seeking revenge, but his intellectual prowess and remarkably high IQ marked him as an exceptionally astute individual. Designating Shikamaru as the captain emerged as the logical and optimal choice. Despite this, Tsunade couldn't entirely dismiss her reservations about entrusting Shikamaru with such a crucial responsibility.

Carefully choosing her words, she articulated, "Undoubtedly, you are one of the most qualified candidates to lead this hunting team, and I am inclined to grant you the position of captain. However, there exists a stipulation. Since Asuma's untimely demise, your mental state appears to be in flux. If, upon assessment before the mission, your state of mind is deemed unfit, I cannot allow you to assume the role of captain. It is imperative that you comprehend this condition. To ascertain your readiness, I will consult with your father. Only upon his confirmation of your mental preparedness will I confer upon you the mantle of captaincy for this mission."

Upon absorbing this information, Shikamaru responded with a nod, recognizing the paramount importance of maintaining the right state of mind during a mission, particularly when assuming the mantle of a team captain. In such a role, the lives of one's teammates are entrusted to the captain, and the decisions made can profoundly impact their survival.

"I understand, Hokage-Sama. I am committed to ensuring that I am in the right state of mind," Shikamaru assured.

Tsunade acknowledged Shikamaru's dedication with a nod before shifting her attention towards Naruto. "As for you, Naruto, I cannot permit you to leave the village at this moment. It may be a trap set by Akatsuki to capture you," she cautioned.

"Granny, you don't need to worry. I am not as weak as I was six months ago. Now, I can enter the five-tails mode without succumbing to my hatred. In this form, even Pervy Sage is not my equal," Naruto confidently defended.

Jiraiya, noting Naruto's capabilities, intervened to advocate for Naruto's inclusion in the hunting team. "Tsunade, let Naruto join the team. With his strength, Akatsuki won't be able to capture him. Moreover, Naruto won't be alone; he'll be accompanied by a team of elite ninjas," he proposed, emphasizing the collective strength that Naruto and the elite team would bring to the mission.

After absorbing Jiraiya's words, Tsunade couldn't help but feel a sense of helplessness as she responded, "Okay, Naruto, you can indeed be a part of the hunting team, but please remember to prioritize your safety."

Naruto, with a reassuring pat on his chest, confidently affirmed, "Do not worry, Granny. I am committed to avenging the death of Asuma-Sensei."

Subsequent to this discussion, the meeting concluded, and everyone, excluding Tsunade and Shizune, exited the Hokage Office.

The impact of Asuma's death was far-reaching, spreading like wildfire and soon becoming common knowledge throughout the world. The higher-ups of the Fire Country were not only mourning the loss of Asuma but were also incensed at what they perceived as a blatant act of contempt toward their nation. Asuma held the prestigious position of a member of the 'Twelve Guardian Ninja' of the Fire Country, and the fact that Kakuzu and Hidan had also taken the life of Chiriku, another esteemed member of the 'Twelve Guardian Ninja,' intensified the gravity of the situation.

Within the confines of the Jokan Mansion, a small yet consequential meeting was underway. Having witnessed Jiryoku's formidable strength and acknowledging Jokan as the future wife of Jiryoku, the Daimyo had already bestowed a significant amount of power upon Jokan. It was officially declared that Jokan would ascend to the throne of Daimyo at the appropriate age. The ongoing meeting delved into the topic of Asuma's demise and the strategic considerations on how Fire country show to react.

Seated on a chair, one of the ministers voiced his concern, "Jokan, we must take decisive action against these Akatsuki members, or else our reputation will suffer."

Echoing this sentiment, another minister chimed in, "Absolutely. We should implore Lord Jiryoku to take action and not only eliminate these Akatsuki members but also dismantle the entire Akatsuki organization."

The ministers, unanimously supporting this stance, articulated their opinions, and Jokan, maintaining a composed demeanor, absorbed their discussions. Finally, she responded, "I agree that eliminating these Akatsuki members is crucial to assert our majesty. As for the dissolution of the Akatsuki organization, I will convey your arguments to Jiryoku. Whether he decides to destroy the Akatsuki organization will be entirely up to him; I won't impose any action upon him."

The ministers present in the meeting room nodded in approval, finding Jokan's decision reasonable. They recognized that forcing Jiryoku to act against his will was nothing but an act of seeking death.

With the meeting adjourned, Jokan gracefully exited the room, and within a few minutes, a sedan was prepared for her departure. Seated in the sedan, Jokan left the Jokan Mansion, her destination set for the place where Jiryoku regularly engaged in his training sessions.

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