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.

The village was alive with the sounds of reconstruction and the movements of civilians eagerly rebuilding their lives.

Though only twelve and looking somewhat comical in the oversized uniform, Mei now carried a demeanor of more seriousness and maturity that suited her new position.

As they continued to watch the village below, Mei shifted slightly, an indication of her adjusting to the new presence within her. She glanced at Hikari, her expression a mix of awe and uncertainty,

"It feels... different, having the Six-Tails inside me. More powerful, but also more responsible. How did you think the sealing ceremony went?"

Hikari considered her question for a moment before answering, "It went as smoothly as one could hope. The Kirigakure sealers are skilled, and their techniques are tailor-made for those two beasts. With oversight from others and me, we ensured everything was done correctly with our chakra. You handled it very well, especially given the circumstances."

She nodded and turned to Hikari again. After a while, her expression was thoughtful, "It's almost surreal, isn't it? Just a few days ago, this place was a battlefield, and now look at them—all these people, just relieved to have peace.",

She continued, her gaze falling on the horizon, "And now I'm suddenly the Mizukage... It's a lot to take in, almost like everything had been a dream.",

"One moment, I'm a shinobi among many, a slightly younger, ordinary Jonin, and the next, I'm expected to lead them all. Given how young I am, do you think they'll truly accept me? And with the Six-Tails...",

Hikari turned to her, his tone appearing earnest, "Mei, your age might make some skeptical at first, but your strength and the way you conduct yourself will win them over eventually",

"You've been given a rare opportunity to lead Kirigakure into a new era—an era of peace and unity. As for the Six-Tails, being a Jinchuriki makes you uniquely powerful, not just physically, but as a symbol of the village's strength and resurgence."

Hikari's voice carried a note of conviction as he outlined Mei's path forward, "Moreover, once you fully recover from the sealing and adjust to the Six-Tails, you're likely to hit what we consider Early Kage level strength.",

"As your training continues and your mastery over your dual kekkei genkai and Jinchuriki powers deepens, I see you advancing to Late Kage level within a few years. It's a level of power akin to what the Hokage of Konoha holds and the one even I presently don't have.",

He paused, ensuring Mei absorbed the gravity of his words, "You've got all the resources you could need right here in Kirigakure. It's simply a matter of dedication and hard work on your part. Achieving such strength will naturally command respect from everyone around."

Hikari continued, his tone serious yet encouraging, "With that kind of power, you'll be more than capable of leading both the bloodline clans and the ordinary shinobi here. It will unify the village under your leadership, aligning everyone towards a common goal. That's power that doesn't just command authority—it fosters loyalty and respect across all factions."

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.