Hyuuga Nen

Biodata

Feature	Detail
Name	Hyuuga Nen (also spelled Hyuga Nen) 3 25
Alias	Shinji; Shisui Uchiha (impersonation) 21 113
Species	Human (Ninja / Samurai) 3 11
Gender	Male 3 25
Age	Approximately seventeen years old during his time in Akatsuki 3 93
Hair Color	Brown 3
Eye Color	Originally dark; later pure white (Byakugan); right eye can become red when his Sharingan is activated 3 25 79
Affiliation	Hyuuga Clan (neither Main nor Branch House) 25; Akatsuki (member) 59; Former Samurai of the Land of Iron 11 12
Kekkei Genkai	Byakugan; Sharingan and Mangekyo Sharingan transplanted from Shisui Uchiha; possesses Ao's sealed Byakugan after killing him 10 79 116
Classification	Shinobi, Samurai, Bounty Hunter 11 21
Occupation	Bounty Hunter; Member of Akatsuki 21 59
Fighting Style	Gentle Fist, Strong Fist, swordsmanship, Elemental Ninjutsu, Sealing Techniques, Medical Ninjutsu 9 11 13 26 27
Notable Techniques	Gentle Fist, Rotation, Eight Trigrams Vacuum Palm, Dragon Sparrow Seal, Wind Release: Wind Senbon, Lightning Release: False Darkness, Lightning Release Chakra Mode Prototype, Cell Activation Forbidden Technique, Extraction of Malady Technique 9 13 25 27 63 85 123

Physical Description

Hyuga Nen is a young shinobi of average build for his age, with a demeanor that shifts between the calm focus of a Hyuga clansman and the predatory stillness of a seasoned combatant. 3 85 In his base state, his appearance is unremarkable, allowing him to blend into crowds, but the activation of his dojutsu transforms his features entirely. 25 33 He typically maintains a thin film of chakra over his body to repel elements such as rain, a testament to his refined chakra control. 98 Following the advanced stages of his Cell Activation Forbidden Technique, his physique possesses exceptional skeletal density, muscular strength, flexibility, and fatigue resistance despite retaining an outwardly ordinary appearance. 91

• Hair Color: Short brown hair, often left unstyled. 3
• Eye Color: Normally dark or black eyes. When his Byakugan is active, his eyes turn a pale, deathly white with bulging veins around the temples. 10 25 After transplanting Shisui Uchiha's Mangekyo Sharingan into his right eye, that eye can shift to a blood-red color with three black tomoe when the Sharingan is activated. 78 79 Overuse of either dojutsu leads to bloodshot eyes and, in the case of the Sharingan, significant bleeding. 15 80
• Distinguishing Marks: When releasing the seal on his Byakugan, black runes emerge from his temples and extend toward the corners of his eyes before fading. 10 During prolonged use of the Byakugan, prominent veins bulge around his eyes, giving him a ferocious appearance. 10 15 No other permanent scars or tattoos are noted in his known appearances.
• Chakra Manifestations: Nen can envelop himself in a Chakra Cloak and shape blue-purple Dragon Sparrow Seal chakra around an arm into a dragon-and-sparrow-like construct. 64 123 When using the prototype Lightning Release Chakra Mode, blue lightning crackles over his body beneath a thin chakra cloak. 123

Personality

Hyuga Nen’s personality is defined by a potent blend of fierce determination and calculated caution, a duality that drives his every action. From an early age, he resolved to take the initiative rather than passively await fate, concluding that “waiting for a pie to fall from the sky is too agonizing” and that he needed to seize opportunities to gain power and protect himself from the threats inherent in his lineage 3. This determination manifested in his relentless training: he mastered chakra refining, samurai techniques, and a wide array of ninjutsu, genjutsu, and sealing jutsu, often pushing himself beyond his limits 5 7 8. He demonstrated extraordinary courage when he chose to unlock his Byakugan despite the unknown risks, enduring intense pain and temporary blindness to activate the dojutsu, and later spent two weeks recovering before fully mastering its capabilities 10. Even when faced with the limitations of his abilities—such as the disorientation of using both Byakugan and Sharingan simultaneously—he persisted, adapting through practice and self-experimentation 79. His strategic mind is always at work; when he discovered the sealed Dragon Vein, he resisted the urge to break it immediately and instead decided to study the complex seal and extract only a portion of its power, showing a calculated ambition that balances desire for strength with careful planning 47. Similarly, after his mother’s funeral, he coldly and efficiently orchestrated his departure from the samurai quarters, using genjutsu to erase memories and swapping a scroll to cover his tracks, demonstrating a maturity and decisiveness that allowed him to sever ties with his past life 17.

Yet Nen’s drive is tempered by a deep-seated caution, born from the danger of his identity as a hidden Hyūga. From the moment he realized his sealed Byakugan made him a target, he became “anxious and overly cautious” about being discovered 3. He keeps his ninja aspirations and his father’s legacy a secret, following the black panther’s warning not to reveal his plans 4. He is wary of the potential consequences of his actions, such as when he felt pressure and worry upon inheriting his father’s S-rank ninjutsu, recognizing that such power came with risks 8. This caution extends to his interactions with others; he is careful with his words and actions, as seen when he avoids revealing his true identity even to his own father until he is absolutely certain of the situation 68. His strategic thinking often involves assessing his own limitations, as when he acknowledged he was not yet at Kage level but remained confident in one-on-one combat 47. Even during training, he shows a balance between caution and action, learning from his mentor Kuromaru’s critiques and correcting errors to avoid missteps 8 10. This cautious nature, combined with his determination, makes him a patient and persistent individual who weighs risks before committing.

Nen’s relationships with his family are deeply complex, marked by a lack of emotional attachment yet a strong sense of responsibility. Regarding his mother, Rika, he feels a fundamental distance: although they lived together for years and he called her “Mom,” he never truly viewed her as a mother, only as “a relative he lived with,” and he found her warmth hard to bear 3. However, he still cared for her in his own way, helping with herbs and housework, and when her health deteriorated, he sought advanced medical ninjutsu to save her, showing responsibility and concern 7 10. In their final conversation, he admitted he did not hate her and acknowledged she had taken good care of him, but his feelings remained detached; he squeezed her hand and comforted her, yet afterward he handled her passing “calmly” and arranged the funeral without visible grief 16. When later asked about his state of mind after his father’s death, Nen replied, “I didn’t feel much of anything,” and accepted the characterization of being “cold and heartless,” though Kisame observed that Nen lacked the hatred that drove others 93.

His attitude toward his father, Hyūga Shun, is similarly ambivalent. Nen never felt hatred for the man who sealed his eyes and abandoned him; he considered his father “just a stranger” who gave him life and provided resources, but whose irresponsible actions endangered both him and his mother, earning no gratitude 16. He joked internally about his father’s motives, wondering if he was meant to break the Caged Bird seal or serve some other purpose, but ultimately dismissed such thoughts 3. When learning of his father’s manipulative past—using shadow clones to meet his mother and possibly even fathering him through deception—Nen’s reaction was a mere mocking laugh and the philosophy “Without expectations, there is no disappointment” 13. Yet despite this emotional void, Nen acknowledges a sense of obligation. He recognized that his own use of sealing techniques had implicated his father, leading to his capture, and he felt responsible for rescuing him 68. Upon meeting his father face-to-face, Nen remained calm and focused on the practical goal of freeing him, even as Hyūga Shun expressed shock, pride, and worry 68. Nen’s willingness to infiltrate Konoha as Danzo and later plan to resurrect his father through body theft indicates a commitment to family duty that transcends personal sentiment 72. He also showed some concern for his half-brother Hyūga Taka, discussing their father’s legacy and the truth behind his death, though again from a largely pragmatic standpoint 96. In the end, Nen’s personality is that of a driven, cautious survivor who treats family as a matter of obligation rather than affection, consistent with Kisame’s observation that there is “no hatred in your heart”—but also little warmth.

Nen is not indiscriminately cruel and has expressed discomfort at being ordered to kill Amegakure ninja whom he regarded as innocent, as well as reluctance to perform meaningless killings on Akatsuki commissions. 52 83 However, he can be ruthless when an objective concerns his survival or advancement. He methodically killed Root pursuers, used the Uchiha massacre and Danzo impersonation to achieve his aims, and ultimately killed Ao to claim the latter's Byakugan despite Mei Terumi's efforts to protect him. 43 72 116 His interest in Hidan’s Yang and Yin Release techniques also shows that his pursuit of knowledge can override ordinary moral boundaries, although he withholds crucial intelligence when revealing it would benefit Obito. 108

Background

Early Life

Hyuuga Nen was born as Nian to Rika and Hyuga Shun in a forest in the Land of Grass. Shortly after birth, his father sealed Nian’s Byakugan, changing his eye and hair color, and sent him and Rika to the Land of Iron for safety 2. The family dog, Taro, a yellow dog of unusual intelligence, accompanied them 2 3. Growing up in a small town in the Land of Iron, Nen lived with Rika but felt emotionally distant; he did not view her as a true mother, only as a relative he lived with 3. He learned literacy and herbal knowledge from her, and from the age of six began to take initiative in understanding his situation 3. Aware of his Hyuga bloodline and the dangers of being discovered, he feared being branded with the Caged Bird or killed, motivating him to seek power 3. At age seven, he discovered a hidden scroll and boxes in his basement containing ninja tools, money, textbooks, and a scroll detailing various ninjutsu, including medical techniques, genjutsu, and sealing jutsu 5. He decided to first master chakra refining, then become a samurai to gain an identity and training 5.

After three days of physical conditioning, Nen successfully extracted chakra and constructed an intensive routine of chakra refinement, taijutsu, theoretical study, tracking, and anti-tracking practice. 6 Taro served as both a guard and his first practical training partner; Nen initially struggled to track the unusually capable dog, but gradually learned to exploit footprints, scent, fur, water, disguising substances, and the Three Body Technique. 6

Discovery of His Heritage

Soon after, Nen encountered a talking black panther in the forest who revealed itself to be his father’s summoning animal and gave him a scroll containing ninja training information and a letter for Rika 4. Later, he received a book titled “Will of Fire” and a scroll left by his father, Hyuga Shun 8. The book disclosed his father’s name, the history of the Hyuga Clan, and the oppressive Main House and Branch House system, including the Caged Bird seal 8. The scroll contained training methods for the Hyuga Clan’s Gentle Fist, Konoha-style Strong Fist, and two S-rank sealing techniques: Seal of Resilience and Seal of Delay 8. Nen trained under the black panther in the forest, but his inexperience led to losses in sparring 8. Later, a shadow clone of Hyuga Shun named Kuromaru visited Nen, revealing that his father had used shadow clones to meet Rika (only meeting her in person once) and that Nen himself might have been conceived via a shadow clone 13. Kuromaru also told Nen he had a half-brother, Hyuga Taka, and signed a summoning contract with him 13. Years later, during his infiltration of Konoha as Danzo, Nen met his father Hyuga Shun face-to-face in a Root reception room. After transforming back to his true appearance and confirming his identity with Gentle Fist chakra, Hyuga Shun expressed shock, worry, and pride, but urged Nen to leave because the Caged Bird seal made his rescue impossible 68.

Samurai Training

After extracting chakra, Nen participated in samurai training classes in the Land of Iron, where families pooled money to hire an instructor 7. He kept his performance above average while focusing on private practice 7. Over the next three years, he helped Rika with medicinal herbs and performed odd jobs, and he began using a katana and ninja tools 7. He eventually took the formal samurai examination, which consisted of three tests: chakra refinement, a sword technique demonstration, and practical combat. He passed all three, impressing the examiner Yamamoto Yuuichirou with his proficiency 11. Nen continued his training, including reinforcing his respiratory system to enhance cardiopulmonary endurance and stamina 16. However, Rika fell severely ill and, in her final moments, expressed her love for him and her feelings about his father. She entrusted him with her final wishes before passing away 16. After handling her funeral arrangements, Nen requested permission from Yamamoto Yuuichirou to go out for one year of training 17. He then used genjutsu to make the samurai forget about him, swapped a scroll with specially treated ink that would evaporate after a year, and left the samurai compound, bidding farewell to his past life in the Land of Iron 17.

Bounty Hunting and the Dragon Vein

Following his departure, Nen operated under the alias Shinji as a bounty hunter, primarily accepting work in the Land of Sea and Land of Tea to fund his research in taijutsu and sealing techniques. 21 24 During this period, he completed the second stage and more than half of the third stage of the Cell Activation Forbidden Technique, which substantially increased his strength, speed, stamina, and chakra reserves. 24 Though he briefly considered settling in the peaceful Land of Moon, he concluded that a tranquil life would leave him too weak to survive the dangers connected to his bloodline. 24

Nen later chose to extract only part of the Dragon Vein’s power rather than unseal it completely, intending to use its chakra to compensate for the strain his elemental techniques placed upon his meridians. 47 He combined this power with the Mysterious Peacock Method and sealing arts to create the Dragon-Peacock Seal and the broader Dragon Sparrow Seal secret art. 58 62 63

Joining Akatsuki

After departing the Land of Iron, Nen traveled to various countries, eventually joining the Akatsuki organization at the age of seventeen 93. By the time of the Five Kage Summit discussions, he had become a member and returned to the organization after being reported lost in the Land of Wind 59. He discussed intelligence reports with Konan and decided to ask for the Akatsuki’s help to attend the Five Kage Talks and target Danzo 59. His involvement with Akatsuki allowed him to pursue his goals, including resurrecting his father, and he maintained relationships with members such as Kisame, with whom he bonded over fishing and exchanged personal histories 93. After the events surrounding his father’s death and the disbandment of Root, Nen returned to Amegakure and encountered Itachi Uchiha, indicating his continued presence in the organization 73.

Konoha Infiltration and Hyuga Shun’s Death

After defeating Danzo with Pain and Konan, Nen used a clone transformed as Danzo to infiltrate Konoha, Root, and the village’s political structure. 66 67 While maintaining the impersonation, he acquired the Konoha Defense Map and exploited the escalating Uchiha crisis to advance his plan to free his father. 67 70 73 Hyuga Shun ultimately died while breaking free from the Caged Bird seal and receiving public recognition as a Konoha hero. 95

Nen arranged for Kuromaru to replace Shun’s buried body with a substitute, then used Reverse Summoning to recover the corpse. 72 73 Upon discovering that Shun’s brain and eyes had been destroyed and that the Caged Bird seal had vanished, Nen froze the body in a hidden Land of Iron location until he could pursue a method of resurrection. 73

Conflict with Obito and Kirigakure

Pain later entrusted Nen with secretly monitoring Obito Uchiha, then publicly known as Madara, during the operation against Fourth Mizukage Karatachi Yagura. 81 Nen learned that Obito had manipulated Itachi into holding back during the operation in hopes that Yagura would kill him, confirming Obito’s hostility. 86 In response, Nen cultivated alliances with Itachi and Kisame while treating Pain and the Akatsuki as a protective buffer against Obito and Black Zetsu. 87 104

After receiving intelligence from his Kirigakure spy Juuichiro, Nen targeted Ao to obtain the latter’s Byakugan. 111 114 He lured Ao and Mei Terumi into a prepared battlefield, defeated their accompanying Kirigakure shinobi, overwhelmed Mei through mist, clones, Gentle Fist projectiles, and Dragon Sparrow Seal techniques, then killed Ao and claimed his sealed Byakugan. 115 116

Conflict with the Five Great Nations

Nen’s acquisition of Ao’s Byakugan intensified international concern over him and prompted the Five Great Shinobi Nations to consider measures ranging from investigation to hiring Akatsuki to capture him. 119 Pain altered Iwagakure’s commission from capturing Nen to tracking him, while Obito attempted to arrange a direct attack with Hidan and Kisame. 120 The Fourth Raikage A confronted Nen personally, and the two proved capable of matching one another in direct physical exchanges. 122 During the battle, Nen observed and reproduced the prototype stage of Kumogakure’s Lightning Release Chakra Mode, combining it with his Dragon Sparrow Seal and Yin Release Clone to pressure A. 123

Abilities and Techniques

Taijutsu

Hyuga Nen's taijutsu is built upon two complementary styles: the Hyuga Clan's Gentle Fist and Konoha-style Strong Fist. The Gentle Fist is the clan's signature style, designed to mitigate the strain that the clan's unique chakra places on meridians when using elemental ninjutsu. Combined with the Byakugan's ability to see the opponent's chakra network, Gentle Fist strikes target tenketsu and internal organs, shutting down chakra flow and causing internal damage. Hyuga Nen has mastered several forms of the Gentle Fist, including the classic Eight Trigrams palm sequence, the defensive Rotation, and the long-range Vacuum Palm. He also innovates with applications such as the Body Strike Method: Needle, which he used to break free from Kakuzu's Earth Grudge Fear tentacles, and the Finger Pistol, a projectile technique that fires concentrated chakra. His proficiency extends to swordsmanship; having copied Hanzo's style during the battle with the former demigod, Hyuga Nen's kenjutsu is considered at the forefront of the ninja world, allowing him to credibly pose as a master swordsman. The Strong Fist techniques, such as Konoha Whirlwind and Konoha Strong Whirlwind, provide him with standard Konoha-style kicks and strikes that he can use without revealing his Hyuga identity.

Nen’s interpretation of the Gentle Fist is not limited to its conventional form. He can transmit its chakra-disrupting effects through Strong Fist strikes, allowing him to apply Gentle Fist principles through powerful blows and contend directly with opponents such as the Fourth Raikage. 15 122 The Cell Activation Forbidden Technique further gives him extraordinary physical strength, skeletal density, reaction speed, flexibility, and stamina, allowing him to maintain explosive close-range combat for extended periods. 91

• Eight Trigrams Palms – A sequence of strikes targeting the opponent's chakra network; includes Thirty-Two Palms and Sixty-Four Palms 8 27.
• Rotation (Kaiten) – A defensive technique that spins the body while emitting chakra from all tenketsu, deflecting projectiles and physical attacks 25 34.
• Eight Trigrams Vacuum Palm – A long-range palm strike that projects a blast of chakra to strike opponents at distance 27.
• Gentle Fist: Body Strike Method: Needle – A precise, needle-like chakra strike used to break free from bindings or pierce defenses 27 34.
• Gentle Fist: Finger Pistol – A projectile technique that fires a small chakra sphere from the fingertip; used for probing and harassment 51 62.
• Gentle Fist: Finger Flick – An alternative projectile technique that launches chakra via a flicking motion, similar to the Finger Pistol but with different trajectory 51.
• Gentle Fist: Maximum Rotation – An enhanced version of Rotation used to deliver a finishing blow 27.
• Gentle Fist: Dragon-Peacock Seal – A hybrid technique combining Gentle Fist chakra, Dragon Vein chakra, the Mysterious Peacock Method for shape transformation, and sealing arts to create a chakra construct around the arms; allows unrestrained Gentle Fist usage outside the body and enables incorporation of nature transformations 62.
• Konoha Whirlwind / Konoha Strong Whirlwind – Standard Strong Fist kicking techniques from Konoha, used to maintain a cover identity 8.
• Swordsmanship (Hanzo's Style) – A copied, high-level kenjutsu style that Hyuga Nen employs with a katana, placing him among the foremost swordsmen 83.
• Cell-Enhanced Physical Combat – Nen’s advanced Cell Activation Forbidden Technique makes his bones comparable in density to those of an average Kaguya clansman, while granting monstrous strength, improved flexibility, and resistance to nervous fatigue 91.

Ninjutsu

Hyuga Nen's ninjutsu repertoire is diverse, spanning elemental techniques, supplementary jutsu, and forbidden arts. He uses Wind, Fire, Lightning, Earth, and Water Release, often combining them in combat. His most notable elemental feat involves combining Fire and Wind with his shadow clones to produce the Wind Fire Tornado, countering Kakuzu's Searing Migraine. He later reproduced Kakuzu’s Searing Migraine with even greater range and power during the battle against Karatachi Yagura. 26 85 He also makes extensive use of the Shadow Clone Technique for reconnaissance, combat, and training. A critical asset is the Image Recording Technique, which he inscribed as a sealing formula on his left eye; when activated alongside the Byakugan, it briefly records the internal chakra flow of others performing ninjutsu, allowing him to later replay and replicate techniques. This method overcomes the natural limitations of the Sharingan and Byakugan in copying, enabling replication of nearly any ninjutsu. Through this, Hyuga Nen has copied the Body Flicker Technique from Hanzo and uses it to augment his speed dramatically. He also attempts, with partial success, to copy Yang Release techniques such as the Multi-Size Technique and Super Beast Imitating Drawing, though these require further study. Forbidden techniques include Izanagi, which he learned to copy from Danzo, and knowledge of the Formation of the Eight Inner Gates. Additionally, he uses the Mysterious Peacock Method from Hoshigakure for chakra shape transformation outside the body.

His Dragon Sparrow Seal is an advanced application of his Dragon Vein chakra, Gentle Fist chakra, sealing arts, and shape transformation. It allows him to form powerful externalized chakra attacks without subjecting his own meridians to the usual strain of elemental ninjutsu. 62 63 Nen also used his Byakugan to study the Fourth Raikage’s Lightning Release Chakra Mode and successfully activated its prototype, although he has not yet mastered the higher stages. 123

• Wind Release: Wind Senbon – Fires needle-like wind projectiles; used with a delayed activation to surprise opponents 27.
• Wind Release: Vacuum Sphere – Bullet-shaped air projectiles fired from the mouth; originally Danzo's technique 62.
• Fire Release: Phoenix Sage Flower Nail Crimson / Great Dragon Fire Technique – Itachi's fire techniques that Hyuga Nen has faced and likely copied 34.
• Lightning Release: False Darkness – A lightning beam used by Kakuzu 25.
• Lightning Release: Chidori – Kakashi's signature lightning technique; Hyuga Nen countered it with Gentle Fist 34.
• Earth Release: Earth Spear – A defensive technique that hardens the skin; Hyuga Nen later used it to withstand Karatachi Yagura’s Tailed Beast chakra strike 26 85.
• Water Release / Hidden Mist Technique – Water Style techniques copied from Hanzo, including the ability to exploit water surfaces with exceptional chakra control; Nen used the Hidden Mist Technique to gain an advantage against Mei Terumi 59 116.
• Wind Fire Tornado – Combination technique created by Hyuga Nen's shadow clones using Fire and Wind Release 26.
• Searing Migraine – A combined Fire and Wind Release technique copied from Kakuzu and reproduced by Nen against Karatachi Yagura with greater range and destructive power 85.
• Shadow Clone Technique – Creates tangible clones that can act independently; used extensively for training, combat, and deception 8 26 29 32.
• Yin Release Clone – A clone created through Shisui’s technique and Dojutsu Power; capable of independently relaying intelligence and creating standard shadow clones 80 86.
• Body Flicker Technique – A high-speed movement technique copied from Hanzo, enabling instantaneous teleportation over short distances 62 83.
• Image Recording Technique – A D-rank intelligence technique inscribed as a seal on the left eye; records chakra flow during ninjutsu activation for later analysis and copying 53.
• Rasengan – A chakra shape-transformation technique Nen mastered as training, though he initially considered it unsuitable for his preferred combat style 58.
• Multi-Size Technique – A Yang Release technique; Hyuga Nen copied its simple hand seals and chakra flow but has struggled to fully master Yang Release secret techniques 44.
• Super Beast Imitating Drawing – A Yang Release summoning technique that Nen obtained from a Root shinobi but has not successfully reproduced 44.
• Mysterious Peacock Method – A Hoshigakure technique that shapes chakra outside the body; used as the basis for the Dragon-Peacock Seal 51 62.
• Dragon Sparrow Seal – An externalized chakra secret art that combines Gentle Fist chakra, Dragon Vein chakra, sealing, shape transformation, and nature transformations 62 63.
• Dragon Sparrow Seal: Sharp Spear – A high-speed chakra spear attack, also usable with Fire Release and Amaterasu flames 63 74.
• Dragon Sparrow Seal: Vacuum Palm – A giant externalized palm strike used to counter Danzo’s Wind Release and later destroy Mei Terumi’s Acid Wall 64 116.
• Dragon Sparrow Seal: Mortar / Thunder Dragon – Nature-transformation variants used while Nen tested the Dragon Sparrow Seal against Danzo’s Izanagi 63.
• Chakra Cloak – A chakra coating used to reinforce Nen’s Dragon Sparrow Seal and endure powerful attacks 64.
• Lightning Release Chakra Mode Prototype – An incomplete reproduction of Kumogakure’s Lightning Release Chakra Mode that activates Nen’s body with Lightning-nature chakra to increase speed 123.
• Reverse Summoning Jutsu – Used to travel to Kuromaru’s location and recover Hyuga Shun’s stolen corpse 73.
• Izanagi – A forbidden Uchiha genjutsu that rewrites reality for a short time, consuming a Sharingan; Hyuga Nen copied the chakra flow and Dojutsu Power utilization from Danzo 62 63.
• Formation of the Eight Inner Gates – A forbidden Konoha technique that sacrifices life force for immense power; Hyuga Nen has knowledge of it from Danzo 83.

Kekkei Genkai

Hyuga Nen possesses two distinct ocular Kekkei Genkai: the Byakugan and the Sharingan. His Byakugan provides nearly 360-degree vision, the ability to see chakra, night vision, and penetration of obstacles up to ten meters underground. The Hyuga Clan's chakra is uniquely potent, dubbed "Gentle Fist chakra," which causes elemental ninjutsu to be more destructive but also places greater stress on the user's meridians, slowing release speed. Hyuga Nen's chakra is even more extreme than the average clansman. His Sharingan, transplanted from Shisui Uchiha, grants exceptional kinetic vision, the ability to copy techniques by observing hand seals, and genjutsu capabilities. He also awakens the Mangekyo Sharingan, which allows access to all Dojutsu Power—a fundamental energy inherent in ocular bloodlines. Through experimentation, he learns to mobilize the Dojutsu Power of his Byakugan, initially a purely instinctive ability, by studying how Danzo used the Sharingan's power for Izanagi. Infusing Dojutsu Power into his techniques (such as the Finger Pistol) can disrupt an opponent's Dojutsu activation. The Byakugan's Dojutsu Power provides only a minimal boost to genjutsu, suggesting its primary function lies elsewhere. Hyuga Nen also develops a Yin Release Clone based on Shisui Uchiha's technique, using his own Dojutsu Power.

Nen’s Byakugan also gives him extraordinary analytical ability. He identified the unusual chakra structure within Kakuzu’s Earth Grudge Fear body, perceived the Yang and Yin Release mechanisms behind Hidan’s immortality and curse, and observed the operating principles of the Fourth Raikage’s Lightning Release Chakra Mode. 26 108 123 He acquired Ao’s sealed Byakugan after killing him, though no transplantation or immediate use of that eye has been shown. 116

• Byakugan – All-seeing eye that grants near-360° vision, chakra sight, x-ray vision, night vision, and underground penetration up to 10 meters 10 26.
• Gentle Fist Chakra – Special Hyuga chakra with enhanced positive and negative effects; increases ninjutsu power but stresses meridians, slowing release speed 9.
• Sharingan – Copying eye; can replicate ninjutsu by observing hand seals up to extreme speeds, also enables perception of chakra and use of genjutsu 79.
• Mangekyo Sharingan – Advanced Sharingan with unique shapes; grants access to Dojutsu Power, some of which is permanently consumed upon use 80.
• Dojutsu Power Manipulation – The ability to channel the inherent power of the eyes into techniques; learned by copying Izanagi's chakra flow. Can be infused into Finger Pistol to disrupt an opponent's Byakugan or Sharingan 63 80.
• Yin Release Clone (based on Shisui's technique) – A clone created using Dojutsu Power and Yin Release, likely with genjutsu properties 80.
• Dojutsu Analysis – The ability to examine otherwise subtle chakra mechanisms, including Hidan’s Yin and Yang Release secret arts and the activation sequence of the Lightning Release Chakra Mode 108 123.
• Ao’s Byakugan – A sealed Byakugan taken from Ao after Nen killed him in the Land of Water 116.

Sealing Techniques

Hyuga Nen has a profound knowledge of sealing arts, which he applies both defensively and offensively. He inherited two advanced S-rank sealing techniques from his father: the Seal of Resilience, which enhances another jutsu by extending duration and reducing chakra consumption, and the Seal of Delay, which allows a ninjutsu to be activated on a time delay. The Seal of Resilience was used to seal his Byakugan at birth, and he later learns to open and close that seal. He develops his own Phantom Rival seal, which is inscribed within his body to counter genjutsu—a feat only possible for a Hyuga due to the clan's internal chakra control. This internal seal is invisible to Sharingan observation, giving him a unique advantage against Uchiha genjutsu. He also uses the Contract Seal to dispel Itachi's crows and genjutsu. In combat, he applies sealing formulas to himself to mix and stabilize chakra, as seen in the Dragon-Peacock Seal. He studies Danzo's arm guard that blocks Byakugan sight, understanding its sealing properties. His study of sealing extends to the Image Recording Technique, which he inscribes as a seal on his eye.

Nen additionally incorporated the Four Symbols Seal and Seal of Resilience into the organs of his respiratory system to automate the Cell Activation Forbidden Technique, later extending this system to his circulatory and digestive systems. 16 24 His seals are integral to the Dragon Sparrow Seal, allowing him to fix and mix dangerous chakra types before forming them outside his body. 62

• Seal of Resilience – An S-rank combination of sealing and curse seal arts; enhances a jutsu by extending its duration and reducing chakra cost. Used to seal Hyuga Nen's Byakugan 8 10.
• Seal of Delay – An S-rank unconventional hand-sealing method that allows a ninjutsu to be delayed before activation; limited to simpler techniques 8 27.
• Phantom Rival – A sealing technique developed by Hyuga Nen, inscribed within his body to resist genjutsu; undetectable by Sharingan because it is placed internally 33 65 80.
• Contract Seal – A seal used to forcibly dispel summoning techniques and break genjutsu, as used against Itachi's crows and Danzo’s summoned Baku 29 64.
• Image Recording Seal – A sealing application of the Image Recording Technique inscribed on the left eye, triggered when the Byakugan is active 53.
• Dragon-Peacock Seal Application – The use of sealing formulas on the arms to fix and mix Gentle Fist chakra with Dragon Vein chakra, enabling the Dragon-Peacock Seal technique 62.
• Dragon Sparrow Seal Application – An expanded sealing application that stabilizes Gentle Fist chakra, Dragon Vein chakra, and nature transformations for powerful externalized attacks 62 63.
• Cell Activation Organ Seals – The Four Symbols Seal and Seal of Resilience inscribed into Nen’s respiratory, circulatory, and digestive systems to automate chakra circulation and bodily reinforcement 16 24.
• Byakugan Sealing (Self-Applied) – The ability to open and close the Caged Bird-like seal that conceals his Byakugan, learned from his father's scroll 10.

Power Progression

Period	Power Level	Key Achievements
Early Training	Beginner	Chakra refinement, basic taijutsu, and ninjutsu; mastered the Seal of Resilience and Seal of Delay; learned Single Thread Light Formation 3 6 7 8.
Byakugan Awakening	Low Chunin	Successfully unlocked the Byakugan after intense pain and temporary blindness; gained night vision, ability to see through obstacles, and chakra flow detection up to ten meters underground 10.
Defeating Kakuzu	Gatekeeper Kage	Severed and defeated the Akatsuki member Kakuzu using Gentle Fist: Rotation, three consecutive Eight Trigrams Vacuum Palms, Wind Release: Wind Senbon, and Gentle Fist: Maximum Rotation 25 27.
Battle with Team Kakashi	Kage-level	Defeated both Kakashi Hatake and Itachi Uchiha in close combat; sealed their acupoints and bound them; demonstrated mastery of Gentle Fist and strategic use of shadow clones 32 34.
Post-Kakuzu Enhancement	Gatekeeper Kage	Developed new techniques: Gentle Fist: Finger Pistol and Gentle Fist: Finger Flick; began research into Yang Release and planned to acquire Dragon Vein power; studied the Mysterious Peacock Method 44 47 51.
Danzo Confrontation	High Kage	Countered Danzo's Izanagi and Kotoamatsukami using the Dragon Sparrow Seal; destroyed Danzo's chakra network and claimed his remaining Sharingan eye; outsmarted Danzo with shadow clones 62 63 65.
Mangekyo Sharingan	Elite Kage	Awakened the Mangekyo Sharingan after days of practice; accessed all Dojutsu Power permanently; created a Yin Release Clone and infused Dojutsu Power into the Finger Pistol to disrupt Byakugan activation 80.
Byakugan Power Mobilization	Elite Kage	Mobilized a greater portion of his Byakugan’s Dojutsu Power, developed more effective Yin Release Clone applications, and received Pain’s secret assignment to monitor Obito Uchiha 81 86.
Fourth Mizukage Operation	Elite Kage	Replicated Earth Spear and Searing Migraine, damaged Karatachi Yagura with a combined Fire-Wind attack, and survived the clash while concealing much of his strength 85.
Cell Activation Fifth Stage	Beyond Kage	Completed the fourth stage and fifth-stage nervous-system cultivation of the Cell Activation Forbidden Technique; gained Kaguya-like bone density, monstrous physical strength, enhanced reaction speed, and extraordinary fatigue resistance 91.
Hidan Analysis	Beyond Kage	Used the Byakugan to identify the Yang Release basis of Hidan’s immortality and the Yin Release requirements and range limitations of his curse technique 108.
Ao Byakugan Hunt	Beyond Kage	Outsmarted Ao and Mei Terumi in a prepared battlefield, used Hidden Mist, Finger Pistol, and Dragon Sparrow Seal: Vacuum Palm to overwhelm their defenses, then killed Ao and took his Byakugan 114 115 116.
Fourth Raikage Confrontation	Beyond Kage	Matched A in direct physical exchanges, observed the activation sequence of Lightning Release Chakra Mode, and deployed a prototype mode alongside Dragon Sparrow Seal and a Yin Release Clone 122 123.

Relationships

Pain

Pain acted as Hyuuga Nen's primary mentor and leader within the Akatsuki, a relationship built on professional respect and growing mutual trust. Pain personally recruited Nen despite Obito Uchiha's objections, asserting his authority to bring the young Hyuuga into the organization 46. He entrusted Nen with increasingly sensitive tasks, including a secret mission to monitor Obito Uchiha (then known as Madara) during an operation against the Fourth Mizukage, a sign of significant confidence 81. Pain also demonstrated protective concern during the battle against Danzo: when Danzo used Kotoamatsukami to place Nen under a genjutsu that forced him to attack Pain and Konan, Pain intervened with Shinra Tensei to save Konan, showing he valued his subordinates' safety 65. After Nen defeated Danzo, Pain read Danzo's memories and offered to use the Shoten no Jutsu to transfer Danzo's chakra and ninjutsu to Nen's clone, further solidifying his role as a supporter of Nen's growth 66. However, their relationship remained cautious; Nen refrained from revealing certain information to Pain, such as the details of Itachi's eye plans, to prevent complications 105. Pain also mediated tensions within the organization, ordering Kakuzu to accept Nen as a partner for the Hidan recruitment mission and warning him against conflict 106.

When Iwagakure commissioned Akatsuki to capture Nen after the Ao incident, Pain changed the mission to tracking him instead, preserving Nen’s interests while retaining political flexibility. 120 Pain also recognized Obito’s intent to target Nen and assigned Itachi and Kisame, rather than Kakuzu, to support him. 120

Konan

Konan's initial relationship with Hyuuga Nen was tense and formal. When Nen first joined the Akatsuki, Konan met him with hostility, introducing herself as a founder and stating that she was to be obeyed when Pain was absent 49. Over time, their dynamic evolved into one of cooperative partnership and mutual support. After Nen defeated Danzo, Konan supported his decisions and maintained a friendly rapport 66. She also played a mediating role, particularly regarding Nen's difficult relationship with Kakuzu. During the Hidan recruitment mission, Pain assigned Konan to accompany Nen and Kakuzu specifically to prevent conflict between them; Konan openly stated that she feared Nen might kill Kakuzu, not the reverse, showing her concern for Kakuzu's safety and her assessment of Nen's capabilities 107. She engaged Nen in strategic discussions, such as inquiring about Madara's possible Sharingan stores and seeking Nen's opinions on how to handle Obito 104. However, Konan's favorable impression of Nen diminished after she learned about his relationship with Hyuga Shun, indicating a layer of moral judgment that complicated her trust 73.

Konan also relied on Nen’s Byakugan analysis when assessing Hidan’s abilities, accepting his explanation of the conditions underlying Hidan’s immortality and curse. 108

Kakuzu

The relationship between Hyuuga Nen and Kakuzu was characterized by deep mutual animosity and careful avoidance. They had clashed in a fierce battle where Nen demonstrated his power by defeating Kakuzu with a combination of Gentle Fist techniques and Wind Release, forcing Nen to flee when Konoha Anbu arrived 27. After Nen joined the Akatsuki, the two deliberately kept their distance; Nen treated Kakuzu as a stranger, and Kakuzu returned the favor, both feeling that if they stayed together they would be unable to stop themselves from killing each other 106. This tension came to a head when Pain assigned them to team up for Hidan's recruitment. Kakuzu openly refused to work with Nen, and only Pain's direct order and warning forced him to comply 106. Konan later acknowledged the animosity, stating that she and Pain valued Kakuzu as the organization's primary earner and did not want him to die in a conflict with Nen 107. Despite this, Nen accepted the team-up out of interest in Hidan's abilities, setting aside his personal enmity for the sake of the mission 106.

During the confrontation with Hidan, Nen’s analysis of Hidan’s curse allowed him to understand why Kakuzu’s stolen heart had been destroyed, though Nen deliberately kept Hidan’s range limitation from Obito. 108

Itachi Uchiha

Hyuuga Nen's relationship with Itachi Uchiha evolved from suspicion to a covert alliance built on shared secrets and mutual strategic goals. When Itachi first joined the Akatsuki, he accused Nen of being involved in Danzo's death and suspected his role in Hyuga Shun's death, creating an atmosphere of tension 73. This wariness persisted until a critical conversation in which Nen revealed to Itachi that Hiruzen Sarutobi had ordered the Uchiha Clan massacre—a truth that shook Itachi deeply and made him acknowledge his own weaknesses 87. In that same exchange, Nen did not disclose Itachi's continued loyalty to Konoha to Pain, and Itachi did not report Nen's relationship with Hyuga Shun to Konoha, establishing a mutual understanding of discretion 87. Nen deliberately cultivated this bond to ensure that if a conflict arose with Obito Uchiha, Itachi would not side with Obito 87. Their cooperation grew stronger: they worked together on missions, and Itachi helped convince Kisame Hoshigaki to switch allegiance from Obito to Nen 90 104. Itachi's attitude toward Nen noticeably improved after their conversation, with Itachi showing more respect and openness 90.

Their alliance later became more explicit when Nen warned Itachi that Obito and Hidan were preparing to attack him. Itachi disclosed Obito’s plan, agreed to assist Nen against Madara, and consented to cooperate on a forbidden Sharingan technique despite being ordered to provide Obito with support. 101 114 Nen nevertheless remained cautious, recognizing that Itachi would receive the details of Obito’s plan only after the other participants. 114

Obito Uchiha (Tobi/Madara)

Nen's relationship with Obito Uchiha was one of deep mutual distrust and hidden hostility. From the beginning, Obito opposed Nen's recruitment into the Akatsuki, believing he was a risk, but Pain overruled him 46. Nen quickly became aware of Obito's animosity and the threat he posed. When Pain assigned Nen a secret mission to monitor Obito (then operating as Madara), Nen accepted, understanding the danger 81. Obito, in turn, plotted against Nen: he manipulated Itachi into trying to force out Nen's full strength during a mission against the Fourth Mizukage, hoping Nen would be killed 86. Nen, aware of Obito's malice through his own surveillance and intelligence, began actively planning countermeasures. He discussed with Pain and Konan how to deal with Madara's space-time ninjutsu and possible Izanagi abilities 104. Nen also worked to turn other members against Obito, such as converting Kisame and securing Itachi's neutrality 87 104. Despite the tension, Nen maintained a careful facade, not wanting a premature confrontation with someone who possessed Kamui and could potentially be backed by Black Zetsu 104.

Following Nen’s theft of Ao’s Byakugan, Obito moved from indirect hostility toward arranging a direct assault involving Hidan and Kisame, while maintaining a façade of cooperation with Pain. 120 Nen anticipated additional moves from Obito and chose not to respond directly to Yagura’s letters, treating the situation as part of Obito’s wider attempt to draw him out. 120

Kisame Hoshigaki

Nen's relationship with Kisame Hoshigaki began with suspicion but developed into a reliable alliance. Kisame was originally one of Obito Uchiha's plants within the Akatsuki, but Nen uncovered this through surveillance of a conversation between Tobi and Kisame, captured in a crystal ball 90. Nen used this knowledge to his advantage, bringing Kisame to meet Pain and orchestrating a situation where Kisame had to choose between loyalty to Obito and his own survival. After Kisame recounted his relationship with Madara, Nen confirmed the truth of his account, and Pain gave Kisame the opportunity to redeem himself by becoming a spy against Obito 104. Nen and Kisame then became teammates, with Nen welcoming him despite being aware of his former allegiance 90. Nen advised Kisame to be careful in his spying, cautioning him not to be too obvious and warning that there were hidden dangers like Black Zetsu that even Obito might not fully control 104. Kisame, for his part, volunteered to monitor Madara and gather information on his ninjutsu weaknesses, showing his commitment to his new course 104.

Their first formal spar showed the disparity in their speed and stamina. Nen used his fifth-stage Cell Activation enhancements and superior swordsmanship to pressure Kisame until the latter considered relying on Samehada to avoid defeat, but Nen chose restraint rather than killing him. 91 Kisame was later assigned with Itachi to support Nen when Obito began arranging moves against him. 120

Orochimaru

Nen's interactions with Orochimaru were brief and marked by mutual wariness and a hint of power play. Early in Nen's time with the Akatsuki, Orochimaru mocked him as an outlier who was not even a ninja, but Nen did not react, maintaining a calm silence 52. Later, Orochimaru approached Nen separately, seeking information about his strength and offering a trade, hinting at a potential power struggle within the organization 81. Their relationship ended with Orochimaru's betrayal of the Akatsuki; after Orochimaru attempted to take Itachi's body and lost an arm, Pain ordered his capture and reclaimed his ring, and Nen was present when this happened 90. Nen seems to have had no further direct dealings with Orochimaru after that.

Orochimaru openly coveted Nen’s unusual Byakugan, noting the rarity of an unmarked Hyuga eye and implying that Akatsuki’s prohibition against member-on-member killing was an important protection for Nen. 50

Deidara

Nen's relationship with Deidara was primarily that of a guide and senior member. When Deidara joined the organization, Nen was assigned to lead him to meet Pain, a role that showed Nen's standing within the group 90. Their interactions were minimal beyond this initial guidance, but Nen's ability to direct Deidara demonstrated his integration into the Akatsuki's chain of command.

Hidan

Nen’s interest in Hidan began before the latter joined Akatsuki, when he gathered intelligence on the Jashin Cult specifically to avoid being caught unaware by Hidan’s immortality and curse abilities. 20 Nen later volunteered for Hidan’s recruitment mission because observing those abilities firsthand was more valuable than learning about them after Hidan had become an Akatsuki member. 106

During Hidan’s clash with Tobi and Kakuzu, Nen activated his Byakugan and identified Hidan’s immortality as a Yang Release secret technique and his curse as a Yin Release secret technique. 108 He concluded that the curse required the target’s blood, Hidan’s own blood, and the Jashin symbol, with the chakra connection between Hidan and his target imposing a range restriction. 108 Nen withheld the range limitation from Obito but became deeply interested in the possibility that an unknown power connected to Jashin or the Jashin Cult underlay Hidan’s unusually potent techniques. 108

Hiruzen Sarutobi

Nen's interactions with Hiruzen Sarutobi occurred entirely while Nen was impersonating Danzo using a clone. Under this disguise, Nen met with the Lord Third and discussed matters of state, including the tense situation with the Uchiha clan and the results of the Five Kage Talks 67. Hiruzen expressed concern for peace and stability, and Nen imitated Danzo's mannerisms to maintain the deception 67. Later, after the Uchiha massacre, Hiruzen confronted "Danzo" and reprimanded him for his actions, ultimately relieving him of his position as Hokage's assistant and disbanding Root 72. Nen, still in disguise, maintained his facade and accepted the punishment, though secretly he was planning his departure 72. This relationship was entirely performative on Nen's part, but it allowed him to manipulate Konoha's political landscape.

Nen later returned to Konoha while using Shisui Uchiha’s identity to retrieve Sharingan held in Root’s transplantation laboratory and to take the Scroll of Sealing. 111 113 He openly declared the severance of the Uchiha Clan’s ties to Konoha before escaping Hiruzen’s encirclement, further undermining the village’s understanding of the surviving Uchiha’s affairs. 113

Danzo

Nen's relationship with Danzo was one of direct and lethal antagonism. Nen actively hunted Danzo, ambushing him with Pain and Konan after the Five Kage Talks 61. Their confrontation culminated in a battle where Nen outmaneuvered Danzo, countering his Kotoamatsukami with a sealing technique (though only partially), and finally defeating him by destroying his chakra network and removing his remaining Sharingan eye 65. After Danzo's death, Nen gouged out his eye, and Pain read his memories, gaining valuable intelligence 66. Nen then impersonated Danzo using a clone to infiltrate Konoha and Root, successfully maintaining the ruse until he had completed his objectives 66 67. The enmity between them was deeply personal: Danzo was obsessed with obtaining the Byakugan, and Nen saw him as a threat to his clan and a source of powerful doujutsu.

Danzo’s use of Izanagi provided Nen with a critical model for studying and eventually mobilizing Dojutsu Power, while the memories Pain extracted from Danzo gave Nen access to further intelligence on the Hyuga Clan, Konoha, and forbidden techniques. 63 66

Hyuga Shun

Nen's relationship with his father, Hyuga Shun, was marked by loss and a powerful determination to restore him. After Shun died, Nen retrieved his body using a summoning jutsu and immediately began planning his resurrection 72 73. He collaborated with Kuromaru, an old ally of Shun, to carry out this plan 72. Nen's actions regarding his father were kept secret from most of the Akatsuki, but it was a central driving force behind many of his decisions. Itachi Uchiha suspected Nen's involvement in Shun's death, but Nen did not clarify the details, and Itachi chose not to report what he knew 73 87.

Nen later examined Shun’s recovered body and discovered that its brain and eyes were destroyed and that the Caged Bird seal had disappeared. Unable to conduct extended study safely, he froze the body in the Land of Iron until a future attempt at resurrection could be made. 73

Hyuga Taka

Hyuga Taka is Nen’s younger half-brother through Hyuga Shun and another signer of Kuromaru’s summoning contract. 13 73 Nen approached Taka with an indirect but detailed account of Shun’s exploitation of Rika and the circumstances surrounding his death, forcing Taka to confront the truth about their father. 95 Although Taka initially attempted to reject the revelation and leave, Nen prevented him from fleeing the conversation. 95 The relationship remains emotionally distant, but Nen later coordinated with Taka to stage an encounter during his Shisui impersonation, demonstrating a measure of practical cooperation. 114

Kuromaru

Kuromaru was a loyal partner to Hyuga Shun and became an ally of Nen after Shun's death. Nen met with Kuromaru and shared his plan to resurrect Shun, and Kuromaru agreed to help, showing his devotion to their shared goal 72. Nen also used Kuromaru for other purposes, such as retrieving Shun's body, demonstrating that he trusted Kuromaru implicitly and manipulated the situation to achieve his ends 72 73.

Kuromaru was also Nen’s earliest combat mentor, teaching him about the dangers of Gentle Fist chakra, correcting his inexperience, assisting his Byakugan awakening, and obtaining advanced medical ninjutsu for Rika. 8 9 10 13 Despite teasing Nen for resembling Shun in his coldness and ruthlessness, Kuromaru remains loyal to both father and son. 72

Zetsu

Nen's interactions with Zetsu were limited and primarily logistical. Early on, Zetsu helped Nen plan the assassination of Danzo by providing intelligence, but Zetsu refused to participate in direct combat, favoring his role as an information gatherer 61. Nen also worked alongside Zetsu during the purge of Amegakure, where they scouted and killed fleeing ninjas 52. There was no deep personal bond; Zetsu remained an enigmatic figure within the organization, and Nen was aware of his connection to Obito.

Ao

Ao became Nen’s target because of the sealed Byakugan he possessed. 111 114 Nen deliberately exposed himself in the Land of Water to lure Ao and a Kirigakure pursuit force into a battlefield prepared to counter Byakugan users. 114 115 After using Mei Terumi’s need to protect Ao against her and collapsing their defenses with Dragon Sparrow Seal: Vacuum Palm, Nen killed Ao and claimed his Byakugan. 116

Mei Terumi

Nen’s confrontation with Mei Terumi began when she pursued him alongside Ao’s force in the Land of Water and attempted to recruit him to Kirigakure. 114 Nen rejected her because of Kirigakure’s Bloody Mist policies and used a prearranged trap to place both her and Ao at a tactical disadvantage. 114 115 Mei showed loyalty to Ao, repeatedly prioritizing his protection even as Nen used Finger Pistol attacks and Hidden Mist to exhaust her options. 115 116 Nen ultimately bypassed her Acid Wall with Dragon Sparrow Seal: Vacuum Palm, severely wounded both Mei and Ao, and killed Ao without showing mercy. 116

Fourth Raikage A

The Fourth Raikage confronted Nen personally in response to the international alarm surrounding Nen and the Byakugan. 119 122 A initially believed Nen was relying on Strong Fist, but Nen explained that his application of the Gentle Fist was not bound by its conventional form. 122 Their battle became a contest of strength and speed in which Nen could directly trade blows with A despite A’s Lightning Release Chakra Mode. 122 Nen then used the Byakugan to copy the prototype of A’s mode, combining it with Dragon Sparrow Seal and a Yin Release Clone to force A to reassess him. 123

Taro

Taro is the unusually intelligent yellow dog that lived with Nen and Rika in the Land of Iron. 2 3 He guarded their home, led Nen toward the black panther that introduced him to his heritage, and served as Nen’s first partner in tracking, anti-tracking, and combat training. 3 4 6 Taro’s breathing patterns also inspired Nen’s early thinking on the bodily reinforcement method that became the Cell Activation Forbidden Technique. 15 Nen continued to care about Taro after leaving the Land of Iron and specifically asked Kuromaru about him after arranging Hyuga Shun’s body theft. 72