Ao noticed the subtle shift in Mei Terumī's gaze and instantly froze.
He wasn't oblivious—Mei's current expression toward Shigure was unmistakable. It was the kind of look only someone deeply smitten would have!
Thinking back to Mei's earlier behavior and tone, it wasn't hard to piece things together. If the two had really… progressed to that stage… then Shigure wasn't merely the prospective Mizukage anymore.
He was now undeniably the most influential figure in Kirigakure.
Mizukage by day, "Sleep-kage" by night.
What a life. Truly enviable.
"Everyone's here."
Shigure stepped up beside Mei Terumī. He now stood half a head taller than her—an amusing detail that didn't go unnoticed.
Mei first allowed herself a lingering glance at Shigure before shifting her attention toward the seven figures assembled behind him.
Hoshigaki Kisame and Momochi Zabuza—Mei already understood their strength well.
They were more than qualified to stand among the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist.
As for Haku and Chōjūrō—they had already proven themselves by overwhelming the Kumogakure forces during the island assault.
Their positions among the Seven were also secure.
Mei also acknowledged Ringo Ameyuri's exceptional power and talent. A prodigy worthy of the title.
The final two—Kuji Kaguya and Mumei Oshiro—were… trickier.
Mei knew their identities and origins well enough. Their strength could only be considered adequate.
They could serve among the Seven—but they would undoubtedly face challenges from within the Village.
Mei turned to Shigure, her expression solemn.
"You should very well understand what the Seven Ninja Swordsmen represent to Kirigakure."
It was no exaggeration to say…
They were Kirigakure's equivalent to Konoha's Sannin.
"So, many shinobi will challenge them. If they lose… the backlash will fall directly onto you."
Her tone carried concern—not blame.
Shigure answered with a calm smile.
"Don't worry. There won't be any problems."
The venue was built around a massive training reservoir—large enough to hold several football fields. It was one of Kirigakure's principal training grounds.
After all, this was the Village Hidden in the Mist.
A shinobi who couldn't fight on water had no right to call themselves a protector of a nation surrounded entirely by sea.
Tonight, nearly every shinobi in the village had gathered to witness the event.
Mei stepped forward—only to almost stumble as she momentarily forgot her still-healing injury. She steadied herself and addressed the crowd.
"Ever since the lifting of Kirigakure's isolation, our village has finally begun moving in the right direction!"
"It is only a matter of time before we regain the peak our Village once stood upon!"
"And today, we have another important announcement—"
"The Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist will be re-established!"
"The new members have already been chosen!"
With a single wave of Mei Terumī's hand—
The cold gleam of steel cut through the air.
Seven figures descended from above, landing in formation with splashes that rippled across the vast training reservoir below.
On the far left stood Momochi Zabuza, silently gripping the Kubikiribōchō.
On the far right, Hoshigaki Kisame, Samehada resting proudly over his shoulder.
Kuji Kaguya planted the Shibuki beside him, his sharp gaze daring anyone to look into his eyes for long.
Beside him stood Haku, poised and composed with the long Nuibari.
A few steps away, Chōjūrō trembled—yet held firmly to the legendary Hiramekarei.
Following them were Ameyuri Ringo, lightning dancing faintly around her twin blades Kiba, and the mysterious Oshiro Mumei, whose weapon remained wrapped and unreadable.
As the seven swords manifested before the crowd, excitement surged among the gathered shinobi.
Eyes burned with pride and longing.
Even Shigure was slightly surprised by the intensity of the reaction.
Every Hidden Village has its symbol—
For Kirigakure, it has always been the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist.
Not just a measure of strength—but a legacy of their spirit.
"Why them?"
A shinobi abruptly shouted.
"There wasn't even a selection! How were the candidates already decided?!"
Perfect.
Shigure welcomed this.
How could authority be solidified without a challenge?
"I personally selected them," Shigure said, voice calm but absolute.
That silenced many. Even though news of him killing Danzō in Konoha had already spread yesterday, dissent still lingered.
A bold voice continued:
"Lord Shigure, no one doubts your judgment, but isn't the decision too rushed? These seven may not be the strongest!"
The words remained respectful—barely.
Shigure narrowed his eyes slightly.
"If any of you feel unconvinced… and wish to inherit one of these swords—challenge them.
Defeat one of the Seven, and their blade is yours."
A ripple of shock spread.
"Is… is that truly allowed, Lord Shigure?!"
Shigure nodded.
Across the water, Mei Terumī spoke as well:
"Shigure's decree is the will of the Mizukage."
That was all it took.
"Very well!"
"I want to challenge!"
"I'll make a name for myself today!"
One after another, shinobi leapt forth, each targeting a different sword— driven by pride… ambition… and dreams of legend.
Yet—
They fell almost instantly.
Zabuza scoffed as the challengers groaned in the shallows.
"Stop dragging this out. We've faced far worse than this. Come together—ALL OF YOU."
"You can come at us all at once!"
An uproar erupted.
If that was the invitation—
THEN SO BE IT!
A chaotic battle broke out across the reservoir.
Metal clashed. Water splashed. Cries echoed.
But—
Ten minutes later…
Silence.
Dozens of challengers floated defeated in the water. The Seven stood unscathed.
"They… they only used basic kenjutsu…"
"No Ninjutsu at all…"
Fear and awe replaced their earlier arrogance.
Shigure stepped forward and raised a hand.
Water Release: Healing Wave Technique.
Streams of water flowed outward, transforming into soothing ribbons that wrapped every fallen shinobi—healing cuts and broken pride alike.
Shigure's voice rang out:
"Does anyone still have objections?"
Every head shook rapidly. Not a soul dared speak.
Mei's lips curved.
"Good. From this moment, the new generation of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen is officially established. They will operate under the command of Minazuki Shigure."
That declaration shook the entire venue.
Only the Mizukage was permitted to command the Seven.
This was no small appointment—
It was the public recognition of Shigure as the next Mizukage.
Not everyone accepted it easily.
"Lord Mizukage! Isn't this decision too—too—"
Mei Terumī shot him a sharp look.
"Too what?"
He froze. He couldn't expose his pettiness outright.
"L-Lord Shigure's strength is unquestionable but… the Seven are swordsmen. He—"
Shigure chuckled.
"Oh? Are you doubting my swordsmanship?"
He drew the massive Zangetsu from his back in a single smooth motion.
"If you wish… I'll prove it. I will use only the sword.
You may fight with any jutsu you like.
Defeat me—
and I'll relinquish command over the Seven Ninja Swordsmen of the Mist."
...
TN:
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