130. The Ascension of Mei Terumi as Mizukage (1)

130. The Ascension of Mei Terumi as Mizukage (1)

A few days later, after the negotiations concluded, an important ceremony secretly took place in Kirigakure.

Under the watchful eyes of Toru, Arata, and Hikari, Mei Terumi underwent the delicate process of re-sealing the Six-Tails within her, utilizing Kirigakure's secret sealing techniques.

Once the procedure was successfully completed and Mei had sufficiently recovered, a modest inauguration ceremony was held to officially appoint her as the next Mizukage.

The acceptance of Mei as Mizukage was swift among the shinobi of Kirigakure. Already recognized as one of the village's most promising young talents alongside Kisame Hoshigaki, who was now a "rebel-nin", her new status as a Jinchuriki only cemented her position.

The ordinary shinobi, aware of her prowess even before she acquired the Six-Tails, readily endorsed her leadership.

On the other hand, civilians were primarily relieved that the recent turmoil had ended. They had suffered the most during the instability and were grateful for the return to peace.

The general populace was largely unaware of the specifics of the political maneuvering and alliances that had taken place.

They understood only that the bloodline clans had launched an attack alongside some Konoha shinobi, leading to a significant reshuffling within Kirigakure.

The consensus reached had seen the bloodline holders officially integrated into the village and become the official shinobi of the Land of Water, gaining substantial influence as well.

Furthermore, while the civilians were informed that Konoha had secured significant territorial and geopolitical concessions, they were oblivious to the deeper, unofficial alliance with Konoha's anti-Hokage faction. At this point, they even had no idea that Hikari and some other Hyuga still stayed in their village.

To them, the total cessation of hostilities with Konoha was enough, and they were content knowing that the village was no longer in a state of war.

As in every other shinobi village, the civilians understood that they had no say in who the next village would be; they could just accept the outcome. It was all an internal matter of the shinobi forces and village higher-ups.

On the roof of the Mizukage building, as the last touches of sunset painted the village in golden hues, Hikari and Mei, now clad in her Mizukage uniform, stood looking over the bustling activity below.

Mei listened intently to Hikari's words the entire time, feeling a whirlwind of emotions stir within her all of a sudden.

As she processed the weight of his expectations and the potential of her future, her thoughts drifted back to the chaotic scenes of the battle, to the moments when Hikari had not only saved her life but had also unveiled the truth about her past—truths that shook the foundation of her identity yet gave her a clear path forward.

She recalled how Hikari had protected her amidst the ruins and chaos and how his voice had offered clarity and hope.

Now, as the newly appointed Mizukage, largely thanks to him as well, and having verified the truths about her parents and the village's dark policies from Genji and other trusted sources, she felt an overwhelming sense of validation and purpose. Hikari had not only rescued her physically but had also been instrumental in reshaping her destiny.

The weight of the Six Tails within her, a daunting and powerful force, now felt like a profound gift rather than a burden.

Hikari's assurance that she could rise to Early and then Late Kage level strength wasn't just motivational—it was a blueprint for the great things expected of her.

His faith in her ability to unify and lead Kirigakure resonated deeply, reinforcing her resolve to live up to the role of a leader who could bridge divides and heal her village.

Mei felt a deep gratitude toward Hikari, not just for his rescue or for revealing her origins but also for his belief in her potential.

His strategic genius and prowess in battle, which she had witnessed firsthand, left her in awe. Such capabilities in someone so young were not just impressive; they were inspiring and worth admiration from her.

That's why his words meant so much to her now. Not to mention that she also already saw him as maybe the only person she could confide in at such a great length.

Finally addressing Hikari, Mei's voice was firm, imbued with newfound confidence and a solemn promise, "Hikari-san, I cannot begin to express my gratitude for all that you've done for me. I promise you that as long as I lead Kirigakure, we will stand as your unwavering allies. You can have my word on that; I'm committed."

"Whatever your plans for the future, consider Kirigakure an extension of your will. I will make sure of that. We will support you, assist you, and ensure that your strategic vision is met."

Her commitment was not just spoken; it was a vow, reflecting her admiration for Hikari and her dedication to the alliance he envisioned.

Mei was ready to lead Kirigakure to peace and prosperity as a pivotal ally in the complex shinobi world, directly aligned with Hikari's and his faction's broader objectives.