At sixteen... or rather, almost seventeen.
For some people, it would be an unfortunate milestone.
Because it signaled that they were about to leave behind the most beautiful stage of their lives.
The maiden...
Setting out on the road toward becoming a mature woman.
Take Hyuga Mami, for example.
Hyuga Mami, who had grown increasingly graceful and elegant.
As a member of the new generation and the patriarch of the Hyuga Clan.
She had received widespread praise and affection from everyone.
Because of the new patriarch's appointment.
The Hyuga Clan's cohesion had reached an unprecedented level.
Everyone loved beauty.
Especially a beautiful, easy-on-the-eyes, and powerful Patriarch.
However...
There was no need for the maiden enthusiasts to sigh over the transformation Hyuga Mami was about to undergo.
Because...
She would never change.
The Caged Bird Seal specially crafted by Hyuga Sho, after accumulating power for a long time...
Had provided Hyuga Mami with an optimized version of appearance solidification.
Based on Nohara Rin and the others' Solidification Technique.
After repeated experiments and extensive modifications.
The technique on Hyuga Mami had finally been settled.
Of course.
Appropriate maintenance and inspections were also necessary.
Hyuga Sho entered the Hyuga Clan mansion.
Everyone greeted him one after another.
Hyuga Sho, dressed entirely in black, looked rather too distinctive among the Hyuga Clan's white robes.
Hyuga Sho went straight to the Hyuga Clan's Main Family mansion.
He had carved out time from his busy daily routine.
To inspect the results of Hyuga Mami's training.
And today.
There was one more task.
Rustle, rustle...
When the sliding door opened, Hyuga Mami, dressed in flowing white, was already seated on the tatami, receiving Hyuga Sho's request for an audience.
Of course.
That was how it appeared to others.
In reality, as far as Hyuga Sho was concerned,