"Then that's enough secret special training for today, Lady Hinata."
Watching Hyuga Hinata withdraw her stance before him, Neji Hyuga stopped the training session, seemingly somewhat pressed for time.
"Thank you, Brother Neji."
Having finished withdrawing her stance, Hyuga Hinata bowed in thanks. Though her face showed a faint trace of pain, she looked quite happy.
"Lady Hinata, I don't think forcing yourself to practice like this will lead to any improvement. This is not something that can be accomplished overnight. When I first mastered this most basic technique, even the chakra pathways in my hands were injured. I believe this is both dangerous and unrealistic. I only reluctantly agreed today because you asked me to. Next time, no matter how you order or beg me, I will not agree."
At this, Neji Hyuga's expression hardened as he spoke. He sounded polite, but his words were practically a reprimand.
"Yes... I understand. I'm sorry."
Faced with Brother Neji, whose relationship with her had improved considerably over the past month, Hyuga Hinata looked flustered and hurriedly apologized.
"Fortunately, you aren't participating in the final examination. Otherwise, with your current condition, I absolutely would not let you take the field."
Hearing the girl's apologetic words, Neji Hyuga looked slightly uncomfortable. Still, he softened his tone, no longer as stern as before.
"Yes..."
Hyuga Hinata lowered her head slightly and responded.
"Still, it's fortunate that you seem quite talented at learning the Gentle Fist Aunt Yukina left behind. I believe you'll master this Spiral Force very soon."
Seeing Hyuga Hinata lower her head, Neji Hyuga frowned slightly. After thinking for a moment, he spoke.
"Really?"
Hyuga Hinata seemed greatly encouraged by this. She raised her head excitedly and asked with delight.
"At this stage, though, I can only teach you this much."
Neji