I don't know for sure so I'd wait for Ren or Shadow to answer for sure, but I think so. I wanted to give Ame a kage even though canon Ame didn't ever really have one, but I never referenced him specifically as kage - just like... leader. v.v But for the Leaf it would definitely make sense to until we get someone who actually wants that spot. Just my seven pennies. -flips table and leaves-
There are NPC kages for each village currently. Those can be killed off if you want to be the new kage. Make the rp and don't be lazy with it and I don't think anyone would object. You don't have to kill them off. You can retire them, ect. Just make sure it's not canon people you're trying to NPC.
That's the gist as far as I'm concerned, unless Renkai says different.
That's why you see me walk around like nothing's bothering me even though half you people got a fucking problem with me. You hate it, but you know respect you've got to give me...