The so-called "extra training" and "no going out" weren't punishments at all, but elite training for the next head of the Main Family! This was the Hyuga Clan making its position clear to him-they had already chosen Hanabi as their future leader, so Hinata, who was gentle and had no interest in the clan's power or status, could marry him, Toru Kujyo, "without any burdens."
It was both a convenient arrangement and an unspoken bargain. They were using it to secure a stronger alliance with him.
Once Toru Kujyo understood that, the raging fury in his heart slowly subsided, replaced by complicated feelings. He despised the Hyuga Clan's cold pragmatism, yet had to admit that, for him and Hinata, this was the best possible outcome.
"It's nothing." He ruffled Hanabi's hair, his voice returning to its usual gentleness. "I misunderstood. You said they only increased your training, right?"
"Right!" Seeing him return to normal, Hanabi immediately sighed in relief, her little head bobbing vigorously. "I have to practice Gentle Fist every day. It's exhausting! Sis never had to work this hard."
As she spoke, she seemed to finally remember why she had come. She hurriedly pulled a slightly crumpled letter from inside her clothes and handed it over.
"Oh, right. The clan elders asked me to deliver this."
Toru Kujyo took the letter. The envelope was made of the finest washi, with his name written on it in elegant brushwork. He opened it to find an exquisitely crafted, gold-embossed invitation.
Its contents were simple: an invitation to Hinata Hyuga's birthday banquet in three days. It was signed by all the Hyuga Clan elders and the clan head, Hyuga Hiashi.
"Hmph!" At the sight of the invitation, Hanabi immediately pouted in displeasure, muttering, "Favoritism! Such blatant favoritism!"
"Hmm? What's wrong?" Toru