Defeated, Hinata returned to the stands with Kurenai Yuhi supporting her.
Since Neji had held back, she hadn't suffered any serious injuries.
Neji returned to the stands as well.
"Fantastic, Neji! You've finally moved past it. Now that's youth!"
Guy was deeply moved that Neji had resolved his conflict with the Main Family.
"Hinata, you did well today."
Hiashi walked over and praised Hinata. Then he looked at the visibly tense Neji. "Neji, when we get back, I'll give you your father's letter. I hope you'll work hard as the Branch Family Head, and protect the Hyuga Clan's honor together with Hinata from now on."
"Huh?"
Neji hadn't expected that, instead of suffering the pain of the Caged Bird, he'd hear something like this from Hiashi.
"Clan Head, was what Miss Hanabi said true? Is she really going to..."
Neji looked toward Hanabi, who was chatting with Shirozumi behind Hiashi.
"Yes, that's right. Everything Hanabi told you is true."
Hiashi nodded.
"So it really was true..."
Neji turned his gaze to Shirozumi.
Was this the enemy of the Hyuga Clan who wanted to take Hanabi away?
But... why didn't Hanabi seem to hate him?
"Hm?"
As Neji was thinking, he suddenly saw Shirozumi stop chatting with Hanabi and walk past him toward Hinata, who was resting beside Kurenai Yuhi.
"What are you trying to do?"
Hiashi flashed in front of Shirozumi, blocking his way.
Could he have changed his mind about Hinata after seeing her improve, and decided to target her instead?
Neji was a step behind, but he moved to block Shirozumi too.
"For Hanabi's sake, I'm giving her a warning."
"A warning?"
Seeing that Shirozumi meant no harm, Hiashi stepped aside, looking puzzled.
"This warning actually applies to most people."
"When you hear Naruto Uzumaki give some passionate