Chapter 124: A Request from Hizashi!

The Hyuga clan's central estate was a sprawling residence, its three courtyards interconnected by elegant corridors. Guided by Hyuga Hizashi, Uzumaki Raiden and Uchiha Fugaku followed him toward the family dojo, the faint sounds of intense practice echoing ahead.

As they arrived, they saw Hiashi Hyuga sparring with his father in the dojo. The powerful gusts of palm strikes created audible disturbances, showcasing the intensity of their training.

"Father, brother, the guests have arrived," Hizashi announced, bowing slightly. He then stepped aside, sitting cross-legged in a corner of the dojo to observe the sparring session.

"Looks like we're just in time," Raiden remarked, casually finding a seat. "Fugaku, it's a rare chance to watch the Hyuga clan's Gentle Fist in action up close."

Fugaku, intrigued by the display, sat down beside Raiden, his Sharingan already activated to catch the swift movements of the Hyuga techniques. The Hyuga clan's Gentle Fist emphasized precision and speed over brute force, targeting chakra points to disrupt the enemy's energy flow. The father-son duo exchanged blows at an impressive pace, their movements nearly imperceptible to the naked eye.

"This level of extreme taijutsu training is remarkable," Raiden commented after a few minutes. "But it has its limitations. It caps Hiashi's growth at the level of an elite Jōnin. His potential feels confined."

Meanwhile, Fugaku, engrossed in the fight, analyzed Hiashi's strength, his posture hinting at a desire to test his own abilities against the Hyuga.

The sparring continued for nearly thirty minutes before Hiashi was knocked to the ground by a solid palm strike from his father. Hiashi lay on the floor, struggling to catch his breath. His father, Hyuga Hikite, adjusted his robes and addressed his son kindly.

"That's enough for today. Your friends are waiting. Go speak with them," Hikite said before bowing slightly toward Raiden and Fugaku. Without another word, he left the dojo, maintaining the dignified detachment expected of the Hyuga clan leader.

Hiashi, still sprawled on the floor, turned to his guests with an embarrassed smile. "Raiden, Fugaku, I'm sorry to have kept you waiting."

He then glanced at Hizashi. "Get them some tea, would you? I'm feeling a bit too drained to move."

Hizashi nodded without protest and left the room.

"Hiashi, why push yourself so hard? You're not even heading to the battlefield," Fugaku teased, reclining slightly. "If I were you, I'd stay home and prepare to inherit the Hyuga clan peacefully."

Hiashi chuckled at the jab. "We both carry responsibilities we can't escape, Fugaku. Aren't you in the same boat?"

Fugaku smirked. "Maybe once. But things have changed now—thanks to Captain Raiden."

"Changed? How so?" Hiashi's interest was piqued. He sat up, looking intently at Raiden.

Raiden didn't hesitate. "That's why we're here. The Third Hokage has appointed me as captain of an Anbu team. I'm allowed to recruit six members, and Fugaku has already agreed to join me. We want you to be part of this team, Hiashi."

Hiashi's initial excitement at the offer quickly turned to resignation. "It's not possible. My father would never approve my joining Anbu. I can't even leave the village without guards."

He sighed deeply. "Fugaku, your situation is similar, isn't it? Your clan has high expectations for you. How did you manage to join Raiden's team?"

Fugaku shrugged. "Raiden said he had a way, so I trusted him."

Hiashi turned to Raiden with a skeptical expression. "What's your plan?"

"The Hokage himself assured me that he would handle any opposition from the clans. As long as the members agree, the rest will be taken care of," Raiden explained.

Hiashi shook his head with a bitter smile. "You underestimate the Hyuga clan's influence. My father won't allow it, even if the Hokage intervenes. The clan's traditions are strict, and I'm constantly monitored. It's simply not feasible."

The room fell silent as the weight of Hiashi's words settled. Just then, the dojo doors slid open, and Hizashi returned with a tea set. He approached Raiden, placed the tea on the floor, and bowed deeply.

"Forgive me," Hizashi said, his voice steady. "I overheard your conversation. I know it wasn't meant for me, but I want to make a request."

He lowered himself further, his tone earnest. "If possible, I would like to join your Anbu team. Please consider me."

Both Hiashi and Fugaku were taken aback by Hizashi's unexpected plea. His sincerity was clear, and for a moment, even the ever-composed Raiden seemed surprised. The room was thick with tension as everyone awaited Raiden's response.

(End of this chapter)