Yuki Setsu kept her promise.
The very next day, she brought the clan registry — along with all the remaining members of the Yuki Clan — to Yoru's modest home.
The succession ceremony was held on the spot.
"This is the clan seal, symbol of the Yuki Clan head."
From within her robes, Setsu produced an ice-blue seal and solemnly offered it to Yoru.
But Yoru didn't take it immediately. His gaze instead swept across the courtyard, landing on the assembled clan members — fewer than a hundred in total.
This was all that remained of the Yuki Clan, the second-largest family in Kirigakure.
And even among them, a third were elderly, infirm, or young children.
The Blood Mist policy, combined with their recent defeat on the frontlines, had devastated the clan. In fact, many smaller families had fared far worse — some were reduced to only one or two survivors. Others had lost their bloodline entirely.
The entire Hidden Mist Village was now facing a critical population crisis.
"Everyone."
Yoru's eyes passed over familiar faces.
Some of them he'd worked alongside in the ANBU. Others had fought beside him on the battlefield during the war.
Now, all eyes were on him.
Even powerful figures like Yuki Hisashi wore complex expressions — torn between shock, confusion, and acceptance. That the title of clan head would fall to Yoru, a former outcast, was something none of them had expected. And yet, given his wartime achievements, his immense strength, and the prestige he had accumulated… it also made perfect sense.
After a long silence, Yoru finally reached out and accepted the seal from Setsu.
"Starting today, I will take up the mantle of clan head. Objections?"
His voice wasn't loud, but it echoed clearly in the ears of every single member of the Yuki Clan.
There was a moment of hesitation — until a bright, clear voice rang out from the crowd.
"I support Clan Head Yoru!"
It was Yuki Kiri.
As the former heir apparent and granddaughter of the previous clan leader, her open support carried tremendous weight.
Others quickly followed her lead.
Soon, the entire crowd was calling out Yoru's name in support.
It might've seemed like a hasty, almost theatrical handover, but in the Hidden Mist — a village that revered strength above all — such transitions were commonplace. As long as your strength was undeniable, you had every right to lead.
Even those who had their doubts had to admit: Yoru's qualifications spoke for themselves.
"Very well. Let me say a few words."
Yoru's tone remained calm as he continued.
"I've been separated from this clan since birth. Though I now hold the position of clan head, I am unfamiliar with the day-to-day workings of the family. Therefore, for the time being, all internal matters will continue as usual. Everything is to be reported to Kiri Yuki, and she will bring it to me."
That announcement drew quiet sighs of relief from many.
Though they respected Yoru's strength, some feared that a new leader might tear down existing structures, reshuffle positions, or redistribute resources and power. But not only was Yoru opting for continuity — he was even empowering Kiri, who had long been viewed as the rightful successor.
Maybe… Yoru wasn't interested in power?
Some began silently scheming, thinking about all the open posts left by the clan's population collapse — and the potential to claim multiple lucrative positions…
"Next, as clan head, I'm issuing my first directive."
The mood shifted immediately. Everyone went quiet. Even Setsu and Kiri focused intently.
In fact, Setsu was already wondering if Yoru might order a coup — perhaps storm the Mizukage's office with the clan behind him?
"All married members of the clan are to temporarily step away from their duties. Those who lost spouses in the war should begin rebuilding their lives. Effective immediately, we are launching the Yuki Clan Population Recovery Initiative."
"…Huh?"
Stunned silence.
A few jaws dropped. Setsu nearly dropped her cane.
But then, unexpectedly, she started laughing.
"Population recovery… So that's your first move. Seems I made the right choice. Yoru… you truly are the one to lead us into a new era."
She gave a knowing smile, then added:
"Of course, as clan head, shouldn't you lead by example in this matter?"
Her eyes drifted meaningfully between Yoru and Kiri.
As Yoru prepared to elaborate on the plan, his eyes flicked toward a patch of nearby brush.
Sensing danger, Yuki Hisashi's expression darkened. He wove hand seals rapidly — sending a barrage of ice senbon flying into the foliage.
"Water Release: Water Formation Wall!"
A defensive technique blocked the incoming hail of ice. From behind it emerged a figure — disheveled, clearly caught in the act.
"One of the Mizukage's personal ANBU?"
Seeing the distinctive uniform, the crowd's expressions turned cold.
Even though Yoru held the powerful position of ANBU Deputy Commander, there was still one special unit he had no control over — the Mizukage's personal Black Ops.
This elite team reported only to the Mizukage himself. In many ways, it functioned just like Konoha's infamous Root division: secretive, ruthless, and loyal only to the village leader.
"Lord Yoru!"
The ANBU agent, now surrounded and visibly panicked under the Yuki Clan's gaze, quickly explained:
"The Mizukage… requests your presence. Immediately."
"I see."
Yoru gave a nod, then produced a scroll from his cloak and tossed it to Kiri.
"The clan meeting is adjourned. That scroll contains the details of the first directive. You're in charge."
"Understood, Clan Head."
PS: Read Advance Chapters at https://www.patreon.com/c/ReadJin