Asada Kei's Resolve

"I never expected Ao to give such a high evaluation to this young leader. Now, I am becoming increasingly interested in this Narumiya-kun!"

A faint glimmer flickered in Mei Terumi's beautiful eyes as she gave a light smile. The lazy, languid air she exuded displayed the charm of a mature woman to the fullest. While the older man, Ao, managed to maintain his usual steady expression, the sixteen or seventeen-year-old youth standing to the side revealed a faint, shy look, his eyes filled with extreme admiration as he gazed at Mei Terumi's profile.

This youth was one of Mei Terumi's most trusted subordinates and one of the two guards accompanying her on this visit to the capital of the Land of Water. He was the new member of the Seven Ninja Swordsmen, the wielder of the twin-bladed Hiramekarei—Chojuro. He was also the genius youth who, in the original story, would later inherit the position of the Sixth Mizukage. Although he was only sixteen, his strength was already outstanding within Kirigakure, which was the primary reason he was trusted by Mei Terumi and entrusted with such heavy responsibilities.

"Fifth Mizukage, I believe we should pay a little attention to this leader of the Snow Ninja Village. Furthermore, we must focus on the ninja who wiped out the Sakurai Clan. Although it is highly likely a vendetta, I feel it is not that simple. Please order the Anbu to investigate. We still need to be more cautious regarding the previous destruction of our stronghold and the total annihilation of the Anbu squad that was tracking the Six-Tails Jinchuriki."

"Are you suggesting there is a connection between the two?"

"I cannot say with one hundred percent certainty, but the probability of a link is quite high!"

Ao said with a serious expression.

"Hmm,