The Main Family and elders of the Hyuga Clan were all startled when they saw Naruto appear at the entrance.
But then they saw the haggard-looking Third Hokage, Hiruzen Sarutobi, following close behind him, as though they had found their pillar of support.
The elders swiftly exchanged glances. The oldest among them immediately stepped forward and bowed slightly to both Naruto and the Third Hokage, lowering his stance as much as possible.
"Third Hokage-sama, Naruto-sama."
The Hyuga elder's voice trembled slightly as he slowly began recounting what had happened that morning.
As he spoke, he cautiously observed Naruto's reaction from the corner of his eye, then looked hopefully toward Hiruzen Sarutobi.
He hoped that the Hokage still in office could take charge of the situation.
After hearing the entire story, Hiruzen Sarutobi looked at Naruto with a complicated expression. In his heart, he did not approve of these actions either.
He also knew that this incident—or rather, this day—was his only opportunity to speak frankly with Naruto as Hokage.
Thus, Hiruzen took a deep breath and slowly said, "Naruto, stop. Don't keep making mistakes."
"Mistakes? What have I done wrong?" Naruto asked in return.
Deep down, Hiruzen Sarutobi still felt that Naruto was a little too immature. In a matter-of-fact tone, he said, "Does that even need to be asked? The Caged Bird exists to protect the Hyuga Clan, not to restrict freedom!"
"Think about it. Without the Caged Bird, many Hyuga clansmen who are still weak would be exposed to enormous danger! When foreign enemies attack, those coveting the Byakugan would pounce like hungry wolves. When that happens, who would protect them?"
After saying that, Hiruzen Sarutobi actually felt a brief sense of relief.
At least in this exchange, he had gained a slight upper hand.
"Hiruzen Sarutobi, you're