"I've decided to have you serve as the captain of this squad."
Sarutobi Hiruzen showed complete trust in Toru.
On one hand, he trusted Toru's strength. Back when Toru was still a Genin, he had helped Shikaku complete a similar investigation mission, and he had also revealed his strength during the Chunin Exams. He was no weaker than an ordinary Jonin.
On the other hand, he trusted Toru himself. This mission involved the relationship between two major ninja villages. The slightest misstep could trigger a war, so handing the mission to Toru was actually a considerable risk.
Fortunately, Toru's current network of connections put Sarutobi Hiruzen at ease.
Yuhi Shinku and Nara Shikaku were both Sarutobi Hiruzen's loyal subordinates, while Orochimaru was the disciple Sarutobi Hiruzen valued most.
Since Toru had earned the recognition of those people, he naturally had Sarutobi Hiruzen's recognition as well.
Toru bowed. "I will not disappoint Lord Hokage's trust."
Sarutobi Hiruzen nodded approvingly and continued, "As for your teammates, you can find them yourself. However, I have two people to recommend. You may consider them."
Usually, once someone said that, it meant there was nothing to consider. Those two had to be brought into the squad directly, or else wouldn't that be disrespecting the Hokage?
"Hayama Shirakumo is a young Chunin. He excels in Wind Release Nintaijutsu and the Body Flicker Technique. He is quite capable and has the strength of a Special Jonin."
"Maruboshi Kosuke made some mistakes in his youth, so he is unwilling to advance to Jonin. In truth, he fully possesses the strength of a Jonin."
"Hayama Shirakumo can serve as the deputy captain on the surface, but Maruboshi Kosuke is the real capable assistant I found for you."
"With the three of you, this squad can already complete the mission.