A week later.
Over that week, Sasuke had spent almost every day perfecting the ultimate secret of Lightning Release: Kirin.
After a full week, he had finally completed the development of this ninjutsu.
It was time to challenge Hyuga Neji.
That evening, Sasuke lay on the muddy ground, gazing at the scattered starlight overhead. It was time to challenge Hyuga Neji.
When the sun had completely set and the moon rose.
A member of the Uchiha Clan arrived at the Hyuga Clan compound.
After the Uchiha clansman left, a member of the Hyuga Clan went to find Hyuga Hiashi.
"Clan Head, an Uchiha clansman just gave this to me and said I was to pass it on to Young Master Neji."
Hyuga Hiashi took it and saw that it was a note inviting Hyuga Neji to spar outside the village the day after tomorrow.
He summoned Hyuga Neji and handed him the note.
"What do you think about this?"
Neji did not answer immediately. He folded the note in half and put it away.
"I accept this challenge."
Hyuga Neji's tone was incomparably firm.
"Good. Go prepare yourself, bring your body to its best condition, then face the challenge."
"Yes, Clan Head."
Hyuga Hiashi did not say anything like, "Don't bring shame upon the Hyuga Clan."
Both he and Uchiha Fugaku knew that this duel was merely a dispute between juniors.
There was no need to elevate it to the level of their clans.
Besides, for their clans as they stood now, victory or defeat was not important.
Neither outcome could shake the standing of the Hyuga Clan or the Uchiha Clan.
That night, Hyuga Neji was not the only one to receive a challenge letter.
Naruto, who was eating instant noodles at home, also received Sasuke's challenge.
Having spent