"With so many Clan members now, relying solely on the Village's financial allocations and mission rewards is completely insufficient for our development."
An elder named Hinata Fire, seated at the first position on the right, let out a long sigh. "So, what comes next might be an opportunity for us. For years, we've tried to strengthen our ties with the nobles in the capital, but due to the 'ninja factor,' they've kept their distance."
His gaze turned thoughtful. "I wonder if that young man represents his father's intentions."
"It won't be long before he gets here. Let's hear what he has to say first," another elder chimed in.
At the head of the room sat Hyuga Tokuma, the current Clan Head. Unlike the others, his expression was far more solemn.
As the leader, he bore the burden of the entire Hyuga Clan. Every word and decision he made affected their future. Yes, the Hyuga were known for their wealth in Konoha, but so what?
Since integrating into the Village, they'd relied heavily on their ancestral wealth. A year or two like this was manageable. Even ten or twenty might be fine.
But what about a hundred years from now?
If things stayed the same, wouldn't the Hyuga slowly fade into mediocrity like many once-proud clans before them?
"I've heard he's not just visiting us. He'll be making the rounds to all major clans," another elder commented. "But since he chose to visit us first, we should make sure to offer him a proper welcome."
The speaker, an older man with a receding hairline and a single braid tied at the back, was around fifty. His tone was calm, but his words carried weight.
Hyuga Tokuma nodded in agreement.
---
Around noon, dark clouds began to gather over Konoha.
They seemed to be drawn together by some invisible force, forming a dense black mass overhead. The sky, once open and bright, darkened rapidly.
Soon, a soft drizzle began to fall, the raindrops light but countless. They floated through the air like dancing sprites, gently soaking the ground below. The fresh, earthy scent carried on the wind, washing away the lingering heat of the day.
Konoha's streets turned misty under the rain, shrouding familiar landmarks in a dreamy haze. Even Hokage Rock faded behind the curtain of mist, its once-proud faces now little more than ghostly outlines watching silently over the village.
Outside the Hyuga residence, Jaxon stood beneath the misty drizzle, dressed in formal wear so refined it practically shimmered. He had returned home earlier just to change into this outfit, fully aware that today's visit was no trivial affair.
Behind him stood Afu and five or six attendants, each carrying an exquisitely wrapped gift box.
Even they were dressed in immaculate formal attire, though the thick layers caused beads of sweat to gather on their foreheads despite the cool weather.
"Presumably, this must be Young Master Jaxon of the capital's Hoshino Family?"
A middle-aged man guarding the entrance stepped forward with a warm smile to greet them.
Although Hyuga Tokuma had never met Jaxon before—especially not as a mere three-year-old—it was clear at a glance who the visiting dignitary was.
A young man standing beside Tokuma stepped forward, his demeanor refined and practiced.
"Allow me to introduce our Clan Head—Mr. Hyuga Tokuma," he said with a polite smile.
His movements were elegant, respectful, and clearly the result of years of noble training. Though his voice was not loud, it carried throughout the courtyard, filled with both reverence and formality. His introduction was proper etiquette among aristocratic circles.
Jaxon stepped forward with a warm smile. "I truly didn't expect the Hyuga Clan Head himself would welcome me. I'm honored beyond words." He placed his right hand over his chest and bowed slightly, his posture poised, his humility sincere.
Behind him, the attendants followed suit. Each one subtly bowed in deference to the Hyuga Clan, their movements coordinated and refined.
Members of the Hyuga Clan returned the greeting with equal grace. Their bows were synchronized, each movement polished and dignified—a testament to long years of discipline and formality.
As the host, Tokuma did not bow, but instead lowered his head respectfully and extended a hand to help Jaxon rise from his bow.
"Ha ha ha!"
Tokuma burst into laughter once Jaxon straightened up. "I've heard quite a bit about Young Master Jaxon's accomplishments. Meeting you today, I can say the rumors don't do you justice."
Jaxon waved his hand modestly. "Please, just call me Jaxon, Uncle Tokuma. You're my elder and deserve the utmost respect."
Tokuma smiled, clearly pleased. "Very well. Then, from now on, you can call me Uncle Tokuma!"
"Okay, Uncle Tokuma!" Jaxon replied with a grin.
The exchange stunned those present.
In just two short lines, the bond between them had subtly shifted—no longer just a guest and host, but almost like family.
A short distance away, Sakumo Hatake, who had been assigned as Jaxon's security escort, stood at the ready. He didn't follow the group inside but kept watch quietly from afar.
He wasn't alone. Hidden in the shadows, several Anbu operatives maintained a watchful presence—most likely sent by the Hokage himself to monitor this meeting.
But there was little they could hide from the Hyuga.
With their Byakugan eyes, capable of piercing walls and detecting chakra, concealment was virtually meaningless.
Yet, Tokuma and the others made no attempt to speak in private or mask their intentions. Their openness was almost disconcerting.
"Jaxon has come from afar. Let's not keep talking at the gate like this," Tokuma said, stepping aside. "Come inside. Even if we're going to discuss serious matters, we can't do it standing around in the rain, can we?"
With a nod, Jaxon followed the Clan Head.
Hyuga members formed neat rows on either side, watching respectfully as the two walked into the estate, their expressions composed but curious.
Sakumo and the Anbu remained behind, observing silently.
The polite exchanges at the gate were of little consequence to them. What truly mattered was the intent behind this visit.
Why had this young noble from the capital come to Konoha?
What did he want with the Hyuga?
And more importantly—what role would he play in the future of the Hidden Leaf?
Øóffer going on for diamond tier
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