In the courtyard of the Hyuga main house, the artificial landscape shimmered with flecks of gold beneath the afternoon sun. Hyuga Hiashi sat kneeling in the center of the teahouse, his pale eyes fixed on a dragonfly resting atop a stone lantern. Hurried footsteps came from behind the clan-crest screen, shattering the tranquility.
"Clan Head, Lord Danzo requests an audience."
Hiashi's fingers paused slightly at the rim of his teacup, sending faint ripples across the water's surface. He slowly set the cup down, and the celadon porcelain touched the sandalwood table with a crisp sound.
"Let him in."
The footsteps drew nearer, and Shimura Danzō appeared at the far end of the corridor. Leaning on his cane, his single eye glinted dangerously from within the shadows. Hiashi rose to greet him, his wide sleeves falling to conceal his fingers tightening for an instant.
"Lord Danzo, what a rare visitor."
Danzo gave a slight nod and walked straight into the teahouse. Rather than kneeling, he stood over Hiashi, his cane striking the floor heavily.
"Clan Head Hiashi, I imagine you have already guessed why I came today." Danzo's voice was hoarse and direct. "I need the Hyuga Clan's support to ascend to the position of Fourth Hokage."
The air in the teahouse froze instantly. Hiashi's pale eyes narrowed slightly, but quickly returned to calm. He raised a hand to dismiss the attendants, only speaking slowly after the paper doors had fully closed.
"Lord Danzo, the Hyuga Clan has never involved itself in disputes over the Hokage position. Whoever ultimately succeeds the title, we will offer our full cooperation."
Danzo's single eye narrowed, his blade-sharp gaze stabbing toward Hiashi. "Sarutobi has chosen Jiraiya, but he is nothing more than a puppet. Does Clan Head Hiashi wish to see the Hyuga become the