After changing into the specially made Mizukage ceremonial robe, Gekkō Raito's bearing changed completely. He had less of a boy's immaturity and more of a ruler's authority.
There was no denying that he looked so handsome in that outfit that it could make people's knees go weak.
"What's there to prepare for?"
Raito looked utterly unruffled, as though he were only going to an ordinary dinner.
Mei Terumi rolled her eyes at him, then turned and took the hat symbolizing supreme authority from Hinata's hands, gently settling it on Raito's head.
"Stop joking around. This is no laughing matter. From today onward, your name represents Kirigakure's honor and disgrace."
"If you sneeze, the whole village will catch a cold."
"And another thing..."
Mei walked to the railing and pointed at the dense crowd below.
"What you truly have to face is those tens of thousands of eyes filled with expectation."
"The weight of people entrusting their lives and livelihoods to you is the mountain that bears down hardest!"
With that, she stepped aside, signaling that Raito could make his entrance.
Raito adjusted his hat, the corners of his mouth lifting.
"A little pressure, that's all. Would I be afraid?"
With that, he strode to the edge of the rooftop, instantly coming into view before everyone's eyes.
"Rumble-"
Cheers erupted like a tsunami, making the entire building tremble slightly.
Countless arms waved, and wave after wave of sound rose higher.
Looking down at those fervent faces from above, Raito couldn't help taking a deep breath.
It really was true.
The feeling of being trusted wholeheartedly was heavy enough to make his shoulders ache.
He slowly removed the hat from his head and held it high.
"From today onward, I am Kirigakure's Sixth Mizukage!"
The roar below instantly reached its peak.
**"Long