"It sounds… like you got something incredible," Tsunade said, eyes wide, a mix of envy and awe.
She didn't know its exact use yet.
But "highly valuable," "usually in Level 4 cans," "the only one possible"—these phrases screamed its power.
"The Immovable Wisdom King, also known as Fudo Myo-o, is a deity in some worlds," Shen Mo began, explaining its function. "Immovable means unshakeable compassion. With the Heart of Immovable Wisdom King, one stays calm and rational, mastering mindset, techniques, and martial arts. In short, it enhances a warrior's mentality."
For a Martial Body worth only 140,000 trading points…
Its effect was modest.
But its wonder was evident from everyone's expressions.
"This is unbelievable," Tsunade murmured, staring at the can. "A person's mentality comes from talent and experience. Can an item really change that?"
"Your cross pendant boosts courage," Shen Mo said, glancing at her. "Not a Grand Prize, but still rare. Items that alter mentality, physique, or talent are scarce. This is just the primary Heart of Immovable Wisdom King. A higher-tier version could reflect all things, grasp wisdom, and master any technique or martial art instantly."
Such items were that miraculous.
However…
They often influenced mentality, especially when acquired later.
That's why Shen Mo hadn't bought one for himself.
Crushing power was enough for him.
"Sir, so its effect is just keeping calm and rational?" Neji asked, awed but slightly disappointed.
He thought he didn't need it.
He was calm in battle.
That was his genius confidence.
"It's not much help to you," Shen Mo said, his gaze playfully flicking to Hinata.
"Neji," Hiashi said, visibly excited. "Can I buy this item?"
He saw it instantly.
It was perfect for Hinata.
As the Hyuga heir, her timid, overly kind nature was worrying. She couldn't even beat Hanabi, five years her junior.
Such a personality…
Without growth, she'd likely die on a mission.
"Hiashi," an elder said, displeased. "Hinata's talent pales compared to Hanabi. She may not inherit the main branch. If there's extra wealth, strengthen yourself or Hanabi."
"Exactly," another elder agreed. "The main branch can only have one."
"Clan head, think carefully," the last elder added.
Hinata's performance over the years was lackluster.
If she didn't grow…
When they came of age, Hanabi would inherit, and Hinata, losing her status, would face the Caged Bird seal, like Hizashi.
One main branch member per generation.
The elders wanted neither to fund Neji nor waste money on Hinata.
Hinata…
Faced with their harsh words, she lowered her head, eyes red.
Hiashi's face darkened.
Today, with Tsunade and Shen Mo present, he'd allowed Neji to branch off and given him wealth, likely angering the elders. Spending more on Hinata? They'd clearly refuse.
Amid this scene…
Tsunade's brow furrowed, but she sighed.
It was their clan's business.
Weak clan members got sidelined, even sacrificed, in most clans—especially the Hyuga's harsh system.
Neji…
Stared at Hinata, who seemed on the verge of tears but held back.
For the first time, he saw her place in the clan clearly. He'd always thought her incompetent, yet privileged, someone they had to die protecting.
"So…" Neji clenched his fists, voice low with suppressed anger. "Is this how you treated my father?"
His sudden words drew all eyes.
Even Hinata looked up.
Neji took deep breaths, trying to quell his rage.
He wasn't pitying Hinata.
He was thinking of his father.
Like brothers, his father loved and protected Hiashi, gentle-hearted.
Yet the clan treated them so differently.
Exactly!
His father chose to die for Hiashi, a noble act. But the clan shouldn't see it as owed, forcing him if he refused—that's what Neji resented most.
He glared coldly at the elders.
His gaze settled on Hinata.
"Take this item," he said.
"Ah," Hinata gasped, waving her hands frantically. "No, Neji-nii, it's yours."
"Sir said it's useless to me!" Neji's tone sharpened, eyes cold. "Hinata, you're too weak, full of fear in battle. You don't deserve my protection—I've always thought so, and I still do. But if this item can change you, I want to see what you'll do."
Would she give up, chained by a cage?
Or fight her younger sister?
Neji wanted to see with his own eyes.
"But…" Hinata tried to refuse.
An elder cut in.
"If it's Neji's decision, Hinata, accept it," he said, eyes gleaming with surprise.
It was valuable. If it cost nothing, they'd take it.
If Hinata changed…
Even surpassed Hanabi…
It'd be a pleasant surprise. The next main branch head would be Hinata.
If she stayed the same…
No loss. They'd keep grooming Hanabi.
Hinata bit her lip, hesitating, then nodded.
Shen Mo watched silently.
The Hyuga's wealth was never escaping him.
On that basis…
He was curious about Neji.
After all—
Hiashi would definitely buy cans.
At least one of Hinata or Hanabi would too.
Before, it was likely Hanabi.
Now…
Whether it's Hinata or double the joy…
It was all the same to Shen Mo.