At dinner that evening, Miroku called her mother out to welcome Kazemori Masaki and Kagami Uchiha together. Although she was the current Shrine Maiden, she was still their junior. Her mother had been the one to receive Kazemori Masaki all those years ago, so having her come out would ensure they did not seem neglectful.
"It really has been a long time. I never expected you to come in person." The Former Shrine Maiden had been astonished when she heard the news and hurried out to greet them.
"We're the ones who dropped in unannounced. I hope we haven't disturbed you?" Kazemori Masaki asked.
"Not at all." The Former Shrine Maiden shook her head and smiled. "Since stepping down as Shrine Maiden, my days have been very peaceful. I tend flowers, read books, and occasionally exchange letters with Miss Kana to discuss the Ninshu Doctrine."
"That certainly sounds relaxing. I'd like to have days like that myself someday." Kazemori Masaki smiled.
"The Hokage isn't a position one can easily retire from, is it? Do you have a successor in mind, Mr. Kazemori?" the Former Shrine Maiden asked.
Beside him, Kagami Uchiha also looked over curiously. Hokage was a lifetime position. Unless the incumbent chose to step down, he could remain in office until his death. A sensible Hokage would naturally choose a successor once age began to weaken him, but Kazemori Masaki was not particularly old. He could easily remain Hokage for another twenty or thirty years.
Kagami Uchiha also knew that practicing Sage Art had slowed Kazemori Masaki's aging compared with other people. His appearance made that clear enough. Despite being the same age, Kazemori Masaki looked noticeably younger than Kagami Uchiha, who had taken fairly good care of himself.
"Well, that's hard to say." Kazemori Masaki did not