Shinnō (Continued)

Following Tenten's directions, Hinata arrived at one of the private rooms and walked straight in.

The moment she opened the door, she saw Konoha's Nine Rookies already seated in their places.

There was also one empty seat, obviously reserved specifically for Hinata.

Three years had passed, and each of them had changed considerably. If nothing else, they had all shot up in height.

The youthful immaturity they had still carried three years ago had faded away, replaced by the vibrant vigor unique to young adults.

Tenten was clearly somewhat dissatisfied with Hinata being late this time.

The moment Hinata entered, Tenten grabbed her arm, seemingly intending to demand an explanation.

The others immediately began egging them on as well.

Ino and Sakura were especially enthusiastic. Kiba Inuzuka even jokingly filled a cup of wine for Hinata and said in the carefree manner of someone who deserved not to have a girlfriend, "You're late. That won't do. Come on, three penalty drinks first."

Everyone burst into another round of laughter and teasing. Hinata turned her gaze toward Neji Hyuga, who sat there calmly and clearly had no intention of getting involved.

What, did becoming a jonin make him arrogant?

His little sister is being bullied, and he can't even be bothered to do anything? If that's how it is, let me tell you—even if you've become a jonin, I can still beat you until you're crawling around looking for your teeth.

Hinata was quite disdainful of Neji Hyuga's detached attitude.

But jokes were jokes, and in the end, she did not drink.

After all, Hinata did not particularly like the taste of alcohol. From the first time she had ever tried it, it had been destined that she would never like it.

Everyone knew that, so they did not keep pressing