Naruto: Hyuga Warlord

"Don't worry, Danzo didn't come for you."

After several rounds of drinks and a variety of delicacies had been served, the Hyuga Clan Leader finally spoke leisurely to Hyuga Soushu, "That old dog Danzo took a risk coming here mainly to figure out everyone's intentions."

Judging by his expression, after being flattered by other ninja clan leaders and under the influence of alcohol, the Hyuga Clan Leader had already become somewhat tipsy.

This was completely different from the Hyuga Clan Leader's usual aloof yet cautious demeanor.

Especially after choosing to compromise with the Uchiha Clan at the cost of internal pressure within the Hyuga Clan, the resulting fallout caused the once-unshakable Hokage faction to grow uneasy and restless.

Meanwhile, those lower-ranking ninja clan leaders gathered around like they suddenly found a new patron, pledging unity behind the noble and powerful Hyuga Clan to work hand in hand for a better Konoha.

As for tonight's gathering of clan leaders now assembled in the Main House's ceremonial hall, they were already the third wave of visitors after smaller clans began picking sides.

Such adulation was something the Hyuga Clan Leader—who had always pursued a low-profile strategy—had never experienced in years, so feeling slightly intoxicated was quite normal.

"I understand,"

Hyuga Soushu put down his chopsticks and responded seriously.

If Danzo had really come specifically targeting him, considering that old schemer's character and style, he wouldn't have shown up with just a handful of men at the edge of the Hyuga territory—it would've been way too risky.

Even if Danzo wanted to take action against him, the move probably would've happened secretly during an outside mission—especially since he'd been conspiring with Hiruzen for many years. The mission itself might've even been a tailor-made trap from the start.

"Well then, as it's getting late today, we'll take our leave now."

The clan leaders who had already received the promises they desired also showed their wisdom by rising politely to depart.

"Alright then, dear fellow clan leaders must have had a tiring day. I also have other affairs on my hands; please forgive me for not seeing you off further."

The Hyuga Clan Leader stood up to return the courtesy while signaling Hyuga Soushu to stay behind.

"Additionally, Hizashi will handle all specifics, so please rest assured, esteemed clan leaders!"

Obviously, the Hyuga Clan had already prepared countermeasures aimed at Danzo and other village factions seeking information.

Especially since this was precisely when most lower-ranking ninja clan leaders began picking sides in large numbers, the Hyuga Clan Leader naturally hoped these aligning clan leaders wouldn't make any mistakes; otherwise, losing lives was trivial compared to potentially damaging the Hyuga Clan's dignity and prestige.

"So, are you still associating with that Uchiha chunin recently?"

Only after all other clan leaders left did the Hyuga Clan Leader pour himself a cup of tea and leisurely ask.

"Mahiru-chan (an affectionate suffix) became jounin today."

Hyuga Soushu answered.

"Jounin?"

The Hyuga Clan Leader couldn't help but pause—he hadn't anticipated this, "Hiruzen Sarutobi actually approved Sakumo doing things his own way?!"

With the Hyuga Clan's information network, he naturally knew about the tensions between the Will of Fire faction led by Sakumo Hatake and the Hokage faction. This was precisely why he had orchestrated the surface-level reconciliation with the Uchiha Clan.

Since joining Konoha, the Hyuga Clan had always adhered to a policy of isolationism and biding their time. Now that they finally saw an opportunity to break the Hokage faction's monopoly over power, he naturally didn't want to stay out of the game.

But now, Third Hokage Hiruzen Sarutobi had actually agreed directly to the Jonin Promotion Review proposed by Sakumo Hatake under his title as Jonin Unit Leader. And such a provocative power move hadn't triggered any serious conflict between both sides.

Although it was justified as an emergency wartime measure to temporarily lower the promotion standards, regardless of the justification, it still constituted a violation of precedent. According to the broken window theory, if one exception is allowed, another will soon follow. If Sakumo Hatake continued pressing forward, even if the Hokage faction wanted to change course afterward, they would face criticism from other villagers.

After all, conventions are established step by step precisely through their repeated violations. While establishing traditions is extremely difficult, breaking them is far too easy!

Therefore, the smooth promotion of Mahiru Uchiha to Jonin status genuinely caught many clan leaders—including the Hyuga Clan Leader—off guard.

"I suppose so."

Hyuga Soushu nodded.

"Has everyone else heard about it already?"

The Hyuga Clan Leader frowned involuntarily.

"They spent the whole day walking around Konoha Commercial District — anyone who needed to know already does."

Hyuga Soushu shrugged casually.

"You mean that Uchiha Mahiru spent the entire day walking around with you wearing her Jonin uniform?"

The intelligent and quick-witted Hyuga Clan Leader immediately turned grim.

"Exactly."

Hyuga Soushu nodded again.

This was an undeniable fact. Therefore, no matter how dissatisfied the head of the family might be, what had already happened couldn't be undone. So instead of hiding it awkwardly, it was better to face it openly.

"How old are you this year?"

The Hyuga Clan Leader paused thoughtfully before changing the topic.

"Sixteen."

Hyuga Soushu replied promptly.

He'd be turning seventeen in another three months.

"You're not even eighteen yet, and you've already broken all of the Ninja's Three Taboos!"

The Hyuga Clan Leader snorted coldly from his lofty moral stance: "You haven't even entered your true growth phase yet. You must be more careful with your actions!"

"Heh heh."

Hyuga Soushu had no words to reply.

He didn't even remember his own age — how could he pretend to care?

The Main House noblemen have stayed above everyone for far too long! They don't even bother pretending to be sincere anymore!

"The most important thing for our clan is Bloodline, whether it's for the Main House or the Branch House."

Although the Hyuga Clan Leader deeply disliked Hyuga Soushu's attitude, he still patiently explained: "The noble Byakugan Bloodline absolutely must not flow outside the family. This has been an ironclad rule followed for thousands of years!"

"So according to the Clan Leader's meaning..."

Hyuga Soushu's expression immediately changed.

"The family will arrange for you to marry a female member from the Branch House. Meet her the day after tomorrow!"

The Hyuga Clan Leader remarked offhandedly, "I'll leave tomorrow for you to handle that female Jonin from the Uchiha. I don't want any further entanglements between you two!"

Spoken as if turning serious matters into child's play, treating lives like toys to be played with.

"I refuse."

Hyuga Soushu's attitude was equally direct.

He truly despised going through the motions with such matters. It wasn't just about his feelings for Uchiha Mahiru; he also refused to deceive an innocent Branch House girl about her future.

"The clan has already shown you more than enough leniency. Some things are fine to dabble in, but don't overstep your bounds."

The Clan Leader's face darkened as he glared at Soushu's forehead, hidden beneath the Konoha headband. "Your bloodline has always enjoyed defying the Main House, yet no matter what, the Main House remains magnanimous. You need to learn your place and show some gratitude!"

"My heart is filled with gratitude!"

Soushu rose abruptly and headed straight for the door.

The Clan Leader's expression grew even darker at being so openly disrespected. His right hand moved as if to activate the Cursed Seal, but ultimately, due to certain considerations, he refrained from acting directly.

"Three o'clock the day after tomorrow afternoon. I hope you manage yourself appropriately!"

Just as Soushu opened the door to leave, the Clan Leader called out behind him.

"Hmph!"

Soushu snorted coldly and strode away.

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