Kakashi and Yamato's Early Retirement

Just as Ao's thoughts churned, wondering whether the great ninja villages that had once fought to the death and distrusted one another could truly set aside their prejudices and unite against a common enemy, Yagura's suppressed yet increasingly violent coughing rang in his ears again.

"Cough, cough! Cough—!"

Ao looked up and saw Yagura pressing a handkerchief tightly over his mouth, his body slightly hunched from coughing. His already pale face was now flushed with an unnatural red, and even fine beads of cold sweat had appeared at his temples.

At the sight, Ao's heart sank.

The Fourth Mizukage's body seemed even worse than before he had left.

Genji looked at Yagura's pained state, and a deep sigh showed on his age-spotted face. In that sigh was both heartache for Yagura and worry for the village's future.

"It seems... Lord Mizukage's body can no longer hold out long enough... for him to attend this Five Kage Summit in person." Genji's voice carried helplessness.

Yagura's coughing finally gradually subsided, and he leaned back in his chair, gasping for breath.

He gave a bitter smile, his voice weak and hoarse. "Cough... Elder Genji... is right. I... have failed the village. With this broken body, never mind going to the Land of Iron... even leaving Kirigakure would likely be difficult."

Yagura raised his head, his gaze turning to Mei Terumi.

That gaze was complicated, filled with regret, guilt, entrustment, and a trace of relief.

Yagura spoke slowly and clearly, word by word. "This... Five Kage Summit will be attended by Mei Terumi... as the Fifth Mizukage."

Genji slowly nodded. "This old man also believes that is the most suitable arrangement."

Mei Terumi had been the candidate pushed forward by their elder faction to begin with. Her strength, prestige, and loyalty to the village