Hinata of the White Lotus
Origins
Once again, Hinata found herself in the darkness.
This time, however, it felt less foreign. As she turned, her gaze landed on the same mysterious girl—Ōtsutsuki Kali, as she had called herself.
Kali floated a few meters off the ground, legs crossed, hands resting on her knees. Her medium-length blue hair, tied back in a short ponytail, framed a face that seemed both otherworldly and approachable. She wore the traditional robes of a shrine maiden, an ancient and rare profession in modern times, her attire lending her an air of quiet dignity.
"Welcome back," Kali greeted with cheerful warmth, her tone light and teasing—completely unlike Hinata's own reserved demeanor.
Hinata stared at her, still grappling with the strange truth of what Kali claimed to be. Could this girl, so vibrant and self-assured, really be one of her past lives?
"Why… am I back in this place?" Hinata asked, her voice soft as her eyes flitted nervously around the surrounding void. The inky darkness stretched endlessly, punctuated only by the faintly glowing Eight Trigrams Diagram beneath their feet. The unsettling stillness of this space made her skin prickle.
"Your heart was in serious trouble when we met last time," Kali replied matter-of-factly. "It's no surprise you fainted as soon as the fight was over. But don't worry; your life isn't in danger. Your body's already healing thanks to the natural energy you absorbed. Let the experts on the other side handle the rest."
"My… heart?" Hinata whispered, pressing a hand over her chest. The memory of the fight with Neji flashed through her mind. She recalled the bitterness in his strikes, the sharp intent behind every blow he'd aimed to end her with. His rage had been far worse than she'd ever imagined, and her awakening to this new power had only deepened it.
"In a way… isn't he right to hate me?" The words tumbled out before she could stop them, her voice heavy with guilt.
Kali's cheerful expression softened into something more subdued. "That's not an easy question," she admitted, a faint bitterness lacing her smile. "On one hand, the eldest daughter of the main family inheriting my power could easily feel like a confirmation of the unchanging fate he despises so much. But on the other hand…"
Kali paused, her gaze intent. "The fact that you—someone so different from the rest of the Hyūga—were the one to inherit this power might also be what helps him break free of that fate."
Hinata's eyes widened. "W-What do you mean?"
"Don't worry about the details just yet," Kali replied vaguely, her tone lightening again. "Just keep being yourself. The fact that you're already thinking about Neji's pain means the path to reconciliation exists. It might take time, but if you give him space to heal, he'll find his way to walk that path beside you."
"Oh…" Hinata's shoulders slumped, disappointment flickering across her face. Of course, it wouldn't be so simple. Magic eyes and mystical powers weren't enough to mend years of resentment. If anything, they were more likely to widen the gap between them. Still, Kali's confidence in her was comforting.
"More importantly, there are things you need to learn while we have this time," Kali said, her tone growing serious. "Our chakras have nearly merged completely now. The next time you draw on my power, I won't be able to appear like that anymore. I'll be less a conscious figure and more of a faint shadow in the back of your mind. The only way we'll communicate will be when you meditate and enter this space intentionally."
"So… you won't be able to help me in battles like last time?" Hinata asked, her heart sinking at the thought. Without Kali's guidance, she wouldn't have known how to strike those natural tenketsu or absorb natural energy mid-fight.
"Exactly," Kali confirmed. "That's why it's so important you learn to use this power as your own. Think of me as your teacher, but from here on, you'll have to fight for yourself. Otherwise, you'll never truly earn Neji's respect. Or Naruto's, for that matter."
Hinata's cheeks flushed a deep red at the mention of Naruto's name, but she nodded, swallowing down her nerves. Kali was right. If she was ever going to stand beside the people she admired most, she couldn't rely on borrowed strength.
"I understand," Hinata said softly, steadying herself with a deep breath. She reminded herself of the confidence she'd felt in the fight against Neji, that fleeting moment of strength when Naruto's unwavering belief had bolstered her.
"Good," Kali said with a warm smile, her usual lightness returning. Seeing it, Hinata couldn't help but ask something that had been lingering in her mind.
"Will I… ever be like you one day?" The words escaped before she could think them through, and her cheeks colored slightly at her own boldness.
To her surprise, Kali laughed, a bell-like sound that echoed in the void.
"You're fine the way you are, Hinata," Kali said, her tone gentle. "Reincarnation doesn't work the way your scrolls describe it. I'm more like a ghost—my chakra transmigrating across time and space, clinging to a new host. While I might influence you here and there, you are still you. Always."
Hinata blinked, absorbing the words. A mix of emotions swirled in her chest—relief, but also a touch of disappointment. She admired Kali's confidence and cheerfulness, traits so unlike her own. Yet knowing that the strength she'd shown in the fight had been entirely her own gave her a quiet sense of pride.
"We'll have plenty of time to get to know each other better," Kali said, sensing her thoughts but choosing not to address them. "For now, let's begin your training."
With a steady nod, Hinata followed Kali's instructions, ready to take her first steps into mastering the power she'd awakened.
It was impossible for Hinata to tell how much time had passed. Hours? Days? Weeks? Time didn't seem to flow in this strange place where Kali resided. Or, if it did, it was nothing like the linear passage of time she was used to.
Her physical body didn't exist here, so she didn't grow tired or feel the strain of exertion. Instead, she poured all of her focus into the training, her every thought dedicated to mastering the new powers Kali was teaching her.
Eventually, however, her real body called to her. A sharp, searing pain lanced through her head, so sudden and intense it made her drop to her knees, clutching at her temples.
"You're waking up," Kali noted calmly. She sat cross-legged in the air, her gaze fixed on some distant point in the void as though she could see beyond it. "That pain you're feeling is your consciousness catching up with the knowledge you've gained here."
Hinata winced but slowly pushed herself back to her feet, her body feeling strangely light. "Am I ready?" she asked, doubt creeping into her voice. She had learned so much, yet the more she understood, the more aware she became of how little she truly knew.
"You have the basics. For now, that's enough," Kali said reassuringly. "Focus on your exams and on continuing to grow. We'll worry about the rest in time."
Hinata nodded, feeling a wave of gratitude toward her past life. Kali had guided her, but she hadn't tried to impose. She had given Hinata the space to walk her own path. And now, it was time to take the next step.
Resolving herself, Hinata closed her eyes. As if in response, the void around her began to dissolve, the infinite blackness replaced by a blinding light. A disorienting sense of vertigo followed, her entire being spinning and shifting.
When her senses returned, she found herself lying in a hospital bed. The stark white walls of the room were a jarring contrast to the endless darkness of the void she had just left.
"Hinata!"
The voice of her sensei snapped her back to reality. Sitting at her bedside was Kurenai, her crimson eyes wide with worry. She leaned forward, placing a gentle hand on Hinata's forehead. "Are you okay?"
Hinata blinked up at her teacher. The warmth and concern in Kurenai's gaze stirred something deep within her—an ache she hadn't realized she carried. It felt like… what a mother's love might feel like. Hinata barely remembered her own mother, who had passed away long ago, but Kurenai had always been there for her.
"I'm fine, Sensei," Hinata said softly, pushing herself into a sitting position. Her movements were sluggish, but her body responded. She could move—she was okay. "What happened after I passed out?"
Kurenai's eyes narrowed slightly, and Hinata could tell her sensei was studying her closely. There was something about her demeanor—less reserved, more centered—that Kurenai clearly noticed.
But instead of answering immediately, Kurenai said, "Before that, we need to talk about what happened during your match. Your recklessness in charging Neji head-on aside… that power you used…"
"I'm sorry, Sensei," Hinata said, lowering her gaze to the bedsheets. She could feel her teacher's scrutiny and knew she had to tread carefully. Kali's instructions had been clear: for now, no one could know about her existence. This secret had to remain between them.
"I…" Hinata hesitated, searching for the words. "It felt like I found my confidence. When Naruto-kun cheered for me, it was like I could do anything. And then… it just happened. I don't know how."
The lie tasted bitter, but it wasn't entirely untrue. Naruto's encouragement had truly been the spark that ignited her determination.
Kurenai studied her for a long moment before sighing and leaning back in her chair. "I see. I suppose it's no surprise you wouldn't understand what happened yourself. Even your father couldn't give me a straight answer when I asked him. But it seems he plans to explain it to you directly."
Hinata's heart skipped a beat at the mention of her father. Her relationship with Hiashi was complicated, to say the least. She'd been stripped of her title as heiress, the position given to her younger sister. Still, this was something she couldn't avoid forever.
"Kurenai-sensei… what about the exams?" Hinata asked, shifting the topic back to her original question.
Kurenai's expression darkened, and for a moment, Hinata feared the worst.
"You passed," her sensei said, though her tone was hesitant. "There was some debate about what to do, considering the match had almost been called off before you displayed that power. But in the end, it was determined that no outside interference occurred. You were declared the winner."
Relief flooded Hinata. She would have her chance to prove herself further.
"However…" Kurenai continued, her voice heavy. "The final matchups have been decided, and your first opponent will be Gaara of the Sand."
Hinata's breath hitched. Gaara. The name alone carried weight—terrifying weight. She had seen what he did to those Amenin in the Forest of Death, crushing them in a brutal display of power. The thought of facing him sent a shiver down her spine.
But she had made her resolve.
"I understand," Hinata said softly.
"Hinata!" Kurenai's voice rose, uncharacteristically sharp. She stood abruptly, gripping the edge of the hospital bed as if to steady herself. "You can't seriously mean to fight him. Do you even understand what you're saying? Do you know what he did?! Rock Lee might never be able to work as a ninja again!"
Hinata's breath caught in her throat, her stomach twisting at the raw emotion in Kurenai's voice. The weight of her sensei's words pressed down on her as she hesitated, unsure how to respond.
Kurenai, seeing Hinata's confusion, let out a heavy sigh and softened her tone slightly, though the worry in her eyes remained. "You weren't conscious to see it, but in the match after yours, Lee fought Gaara of the Sand. It was… horrifying."
Kurenai's voice wavered as she recounted the fight. "Lee gave it everything he had, even risking his own body with the forbidden techniques of his clan. For a while, it looked like he might have the upper hand. But then Gaara…" She paused, as if searching for the right words to describe the scene. "He crushed Lee's arm and leg with his sand. Deliberately. The medical team barely managed to stabilize him, but the damage was extensive. It's uncertain if Lee will ever fully recover—if he'll even walk again, let alone fight."
Hinata's hands clenched tightly around the bedsheets, her heart aching at the thought of Lee, someone so determined and full of passion, being cut down in such a brutal manner. She could see Kurenai's pain as well, the guilt of a teacher who had witnessed such violence and could do nothing to stop it.
"And now," Kurenai continued, her tone laced with frustration and fear, "you're being asked to face that same monster. Do you understand why I'm concerned, Hinata? You're brave, but this isn't just another fight. Gaara doesn't fight to win—he fights to destroy."
Hinata remained silent for a moment, the weight of her sensei's words settling over her like a heavy fog. She wasn't naïve; she understood the risks. Gaara was no ordinary opponent, and his actions against Lee proved how dangerous he truly was.
But this was her chance. Her chance to show how much she had changed, how much she had grown. And, deep down, she knew that withdrawing would only solidify the doubts others already had about her.
"I will fight," Hinata said softly, her voice steady but resolute.
Kurenai stared at her in disbelief, her lips parting as though to protest, but the conviction in Hinata's gaze stopped her. There was something different about her student now—something unshakable.
"You're really going through with it?" Kurenai asked, her tone quieter but no less urgent.
Hinata nodded. "I know how dangerous Gaara is. But I've made my resolve. I will fight… not just for myself, but to prove that I've changed. That I'm stronger now."
For a long moment, Kurenai didn't respond. She simply looked at Hinata, studying her as though seeing her for the first time. Finally, she let out a deep sigh and sank back into her chair.
"Alright," Kurenai said reluctantly. "If this is your decision, I won't try to stop you. But you'll need more than resolve to win against someone like him." Her voice softened as she added, "You've come a long way, Hinata. But if you're going to face Gaara, you'll need every bit of strength you can muster."
Hinata offered her teacher a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Sensei. I'll do my best."
In that moment, despite the lingering fear in her heart, Hinata knew she had taken another step forward. There was no turning back now. The path she had chosen was clear, and she would walk it—no matter how daunting it seemed.
"Well, even if you wanted to withdraw, I don't think it would be allowed," Kurenai then admitted bitterly. "The Hyūga clan head's eldest daughter versus the Kazekage's son… it's the perfect headline. The village would never pass up the chance to promote it."
Hinata hadn't even considered that angle, but it made sense. The Hyūga name carried weight, and even though she was no longer the heiress, she was still a member of the main branch.
"So, what will you do from here?" Kurenai asked after a pause. "I'll continue training you, of course, but I don't know anything about the new abilities you've awakened."
Hinata smiled faintly but shook her head. "Thank you, Sensei, but I also need to speak with my clan."
Kurenai frowned, concern etched into her features. "Are you sure you'll be okay speaking with your father?"
Hinata hesitated but then nodded firmly. After fighting Neji and standing her ground, even against Gaara's looming shadow, facing her father didn't seem as daunting anymore.
"Yes. I'll be fine."
For the first time, she truly believed it.
Shortly after that, the doctor arrived and Hinata was formally discharged from the hospital. Though she had spent three days in their care, it was hardly due to physical injuries. Her body, already recovered from the influx of natural energy, had recovered quickly during and after the battle. The Medical-nin had merely ensured her recovery was seamless, but even they had been puzzled by her prolonged exhaustion. They couldn't have known the truth—that her chakra itself was evolving, reshaping her very nature.
As Hinata stepped out into the fresh air, Kurenai joined her. Together, they walked in silence for a time, the tension of the past few days hanging over them like a storm cloud. But Kurenai, ever perceptive, shifted the conversation away from heavy topics. They didn't speak of Hinata's eyes, the clan, or the Chūnin Exams. Instead, Kurenai spoke of simpler things—past missions, funny mishaps with their team, and moments of triumph they'd shared.
Hinata found herself relaxing, her shoulders easing from the weight they had carried for so long. It was moments like these that made her grateful for her sensei. Kurenai always seemed to know what Hinata needed, even when Hinata herself didn't. For a brief time, the chaos of her world faded, replaced by the comfort of familiar memories and easy companionship.
But reality was not so kind as to let the moment last forever. Their walk came to an end near the Hyūga compound, its imposing gates looming ahead. Kurenai stopped and turned to her, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
"We'll have a team meeting later this week," she said with a soft smile. "But for now, take care of yourself, Hinata. You've been through a lot."
"Thank you, sensei," Hinata replied, bowing her head slightly. Kurenai's presence had been a balm to her troubled heart, but now she was on her own again. She watched her teacher walk away until she disappeared into the distance.
Taking a deep breath, Hinata turned to face the compound. This was her home, but it never truly felt like it. The grand halls, the meticulously groomed gardens, and the towering walls that surrounded the estate were more suffocating than comforting. Every step inside felt like walking into a world where she didn't belong.
But today, she pushed herself forward. Her pace was steady, if not entirely confident, as she crossed the threshold. The moment her foot touched the stone path within the compound, something small and fast hurtled toward her with the force of a missile, slamming into her stomach and knocking the air from her lungs. Startled, Hinata instinctively tensed, her mind flashing to the possibility of an attack.
"Nee-sama!" a high-pitched voice cried, breaking through her panic. Hinata looked down to see Hanabi clinging to her waist, her little arms wrapped tightly around her. The girl's face was buried in her sister's torso, her small body trembling slightly.
Hinata's heart softened immediately. "Hanabi…"
Hanabi pulled back just enough to look up at her, her eyes wide with relief and worry. "I heard you were hurt fighting Neji-nii-san! And then Kurenai-sensei came to talk to Father, and his face got really scary… I thought something terrible might have happened!" Her words tumbled out in a rush, her usual composure nowhere to be found.
Hinata knelt down, wrapping her arms around her little sister in a gentle embrace. A warm smile spread across her face, dispelling the tension that had clung to her since leaving the hospital. "I'm okay, Hanabi. I'm sorry for worrying you."
Despite the complex dynamics of their family, this moment reminded Hinata of what truly mattered. Hanabi had been chosen as the heiress, but there had never been animosity between them. If anything, their bond had grown stronger over the years. Hinata had always supported her little sister, and in turn, Hanabi had never looked down on her.
Hanabi buried her face against Hinata's shoulder again, her voice muffled as she mumbled, "So long as you're okay… I guess I'll forgive you."
Hinata chuckled softly, stroking Hanabi's dark hair. Though her little sister tried to sound stern, she could hear the relief in her voice. For all her attempts to act mature, Hanabi was still a child, and moments like these revealed her vulnerability.
As they stood there, embracing in the fading light of the evening, Hinata felt something stir within her—a quiet determination. This was why she couldn't falter, why she couldn't give in to self-doubt. For her sister, for her clan, and for herself, she had to keep moving forward. This was only the beginning of her journey.
"Thank you, Hanabi," she said softly. "Let's go inside. I think we both deserve a little rest."
Hanabi nodded, her cheeks faintly pink as she released her grip and grabbed Hinata's hand instead. Together, they walked deeper into the compound and entered its halls, their bond unspoken but unshakable.
In the end, they were sisters. And no matter what the world threw at them, that would never change.
"Hinata."
The voice that cut through the hallway was colder than the evening air seeping through the compound walls. Hinata and Hanabi froze, immediately turning toward the source of the voice, their expressions smoothing into careful neutrality as they greeted him.
"Father," they said in unison, bowing deeply.
Hiashi stood at the other end of the corridor, his back straight and his gaze impassive. If he had noticed the rare display of affection between his daughters, he gave no indication. His eyes flicked over them briefly before he turned and began to walk away, his movements measured and deliberate. For a moment, Hinata thought that might be the extent of their interaction.
"Come with me. Both of you. There is much to discuss."
His words were quiet, but the weight behind them was unmistakable. There was no room for refusal. Hinata's chest tightened, but she straightened her back, giving a small nod. She had already intended to speak with her father, though the inclusion of Hanabi was unexpected. Her instinct was to shield her sister from whatever was to come, but when she glanced at Hanabi, the younger girl's expression was composed, unreadable.
"Let's go," Hanabi said, her voice devoid of its earlier warmth. Yet despite her controlled tone, she didn't move until Hinata took the first step. That simple, silent gesture—a small show of solidarity—was enough to steady Hinata's nerves. Whatever awaited them, she would face it with her sister by her side.
"Yeah," Hinata replied softly. Acting on impulse, she reached out and took Hanabi's hand. The younger girl flinched ever so slightly, caught off guard by the sudden affection, but quickly fell into step beside her. Though she tried to maintain her neutral facade, Hinata noticed the faintest upturn of her lips, a subtle but reassuring smile.
Together, they followed Hiashi into one of the tatami rooms. He was already seated at the far end, his posture formal and his expression as unreadable as ever. Next to him was a stack of scrolls, their worn bindings hinting at their age and significance. The room was quiet, save for the faint rustle of fabric as Hinata and Hanabi knelt before him, their movements careful and precise. They waited, the air thick with anticipation, until Hiashi finally spoke.
"Hinata…" he began, his voice uncharacteristically slow and deliberate. His usual stoicism was replaced by something unfamiliar—weariness, perhaps even a hint of apprehension. It was the first time Hinata had ever seen her father like this. "How much of your fight with Neji do you remember?"
The question was unexpected, and Hinata hesitated. Her fingers curled slightly against her lap as she sifted through her memories. "I… I remember everything, I think," she answered, though her tone was uncertain. She couldn't help but wonder if there was something she had missed—something she wasn't even aware she had forgotten.
Hiashi's expression darkened. It wasn't anger, but something deeper, something that sent a ripple of unease through the room. Even Hanabi, seated stiffly beside her sister, seemed to sense it. Her small frame shivered ever so slightly.
"Kurenai informed me that you displayed a strange power during that fight," Hiashi said. His tone was cautious now, almost reluctant. "Show me."
Hinata immediately understood what he meant. It wasn't the tenketsu strikes or the calculated movements he wanted to see. It was her eyes. The power that had awakened within her. She hesitated briefly, unsure of what would follow, but ultimately nodded. Closing her eyes, she reached inward, recalling what Kali had taught her.
She focused on the natural energy around her, pulling it in just enough to start the process. Once initiated, she could feel Kali's presence take over, stabilizing the delicate balance required to maintain the state. It wasn't something she could fully control yet—not without the shade's help—but it worked. Slowly, she opened her eyes, and the world around her shifted.
She could see everything.
The flow of chakra in the room, the intricate threads of energy binding it all together—it was breathtakingly vivid. The three-hundred-sixty-degree vision of the Byakugan had always been extraordinary, but this was on a completely different level. She glanced at Hanabi and caught her reflection in her sister's wide eyes. Her own irises were no longer blank and pale but adorned with delicate white petal patterns, like a lotus in bloom.
"Nee-sama…" Hanabi's whisper broke the silence, her voice filled with awe.
Hinata turned to her father, her heart pounding in her chest. His gaze, sharp and scrutinizing, lingered on her altered eyes. It wasn't the stern, disapproving look she had grown accustomed to—it was deeper, more layered, as though he were staring through her and into something far beyond her comprehension. After a long, weighted silence, he let out a slow, measured sigh.
"So, you have finally awakened your power."
His tone was somber, yet it carried an edge of inevitability that sent a chill down Hinata's spine. She blinked, her confusion evident in the furrow of her brow. "Finally?" she echoed, her voice hesitant. "You… knew about this?"
Hiashi's expression darkened, the usual stoicism in his features giving way to something far more troubling. "This is the third time you've used this power, Hinata."
The words struck her like a physical blow. Her breath caught, and her eyes widened. "Third?" she repeated, her voice barely above a whisper. Her mind raced, sifting through fragmented memories, but there was nothing—no recollection, no lingering sensation—that would suggest such a thing had occurred. How could she have used such power and not known?
Hiashi's voice remained steady, though the weight of his words pressed down on the room like an invisible force. "The first time was on your third birthday."
Hinata's heart sank, her body instinctively tensing. She didn't need him to elaborate; she already knew what he was referring to. That day had been seared into her memory, not for the power she had supposedly displayed, but for the tragedy it had set in motion. It was the day a Shinobi from Kumogakure had infiltrated the Hyūga compound, attempting to steal the Byakugan—a day that had ended in bloodshed and loss.
Hiashi's next words shattered her already fragile composure. "The truth is, I did not kill that man," he said bluntly, his tone devoid of any attempt to soften the blow. "You did. With the power of the Nichiren Byakugan."
Hinata's eyes widened in disbelief, and she instinctively shook her head. "No…" she whispered, her voice trembling. "That can't be true…"
Her mind reeled. The official account had always been that Hiashi had struck down the head Kumonin in defense of his daughter, an act that had triggered the political storm now known as the Hyūga Affair. Kumogakure, unwilling to accept their defeat, had demanded Hiashi's life as restitution, falsely claiming that their emissary had been killed while seeking peace. To save Hiashi, his twin brother Hizashi had offered his life instead, marking the event as one of the clan's darkest moments.
But now, her father was telling her that it had been her—her own power—that had killed the man. If that were true, then the sacrifice of Neji's father, Hizashi, had been predicated on a lie. The realization hit her like a tidal wave, and she felt her vision blur with unshed tears.
Hiashi's tone remained unyielding as he continued. "The second time was during the fight that determined Hanabi as the heiress of the Hyūga clan. That fight was never completed." His gaze flickered toward Hanabi, who sat rigidly beside her sister, her composure slowly crumbling. "You lost control, and I was forced to intervene."
"Father, stop—" Hanabi began, her voice faltering as the weight of his words threatened to overwhelm her. Her small hands trembled, clutching at the fabric of her lap as though trying to steady herself. "I… I won that fight. Didn't I?" Her voice cracked with uncertainty, her confidence unraveling with every passing second.
Hiashi's expression softened, but only slightly. He closed his eyes briefly, as if gathering himself before delivering the final blow. "We called upon a Yamanaka to alter your memories, Hanabi," he said, his tone laced with regret. "The truth is, that fight never concluded. Your sister's power awakened again, and I had to end it before either of you were hurt."
The room fell silent, the air heavy with a tension that neither sister could dispel. Hinata's hands clenched against her knees, her nails biting into her skin as guilt and disbelief warred within her. "I would never hurt Hanabi," she whispered, her voice cracking under the weight of her emotions. "I… I couldn't…"
The sound of movement startled her, and she turned to find Hanabi leaning toward her. Without hesitation, the younger girl wrapped her arms tightly around Hinata, pulling her into a fierce embrace. "I know, Nee-sama," Hanabi murmured, her voice soft but unwavering. "I know you would never hurt me."
Hinata's breath hitched, and she closed her eyes, the warmth of her sister's embrace grounding her in a moment that felt otherwise untethered from reality. Her arms lifted slowly, trembling as they encircled Hanabi in return. The weight of her guilt didn't dissipate, but in that moment, it felt just a little easier to bear.
For once, Hiashi did not reprimand them for their display of affection. Instead, he allowed the moment to linger, his expression unreadable as he observed his daughters. When he finally spoke, his voice was measured, though it carried a note of something that almost resembled understanding.
"Of course, I do not believe you had any intention of harming her," he said, addressing Hinata directly. "The power of the Nichiren Byakugan is not something that can be controlled easily—especially not by someone so young. Your body was not yet developed enough to handle it. When I forced you two to fight, I thought the pressure might bring it forth under controlled circumstances. I was wrong. I miscalculated."
Hinata pulled back slightly, her tear-streaked face lifting to meet her father's gaze. For the first time in her life, she saw something in his eyes that she had never thought possible: remorse. "Why?" she asked, her voice trembling but firm. "Why would you take such a risk? Why put Hanabi in danger if you suspected what might happen?"
To her shock, Hiashi bowed his head. His movements were deliberate, but the act itself was so uncharacteristic that it left Hinata momentarily speechless. "I made a mistake," he said, his voice quiet but resolute. "I believed that I could control the situation, and was proven sorely wrong. The fault is mine, and I take full responsibility."
The raw sincerity in his voice left Hinata reeling. She had spent years believing that she had been a disappointment to her father, that his coldness stemmed from her perceived inadequacies. Yet now, she realized that it wasn't disappointment in her that he had harbored—it was in himself. Regret for the awful thing he had done to them, and guilt for how he had failed her.
"Does that mean…" Hanabi began, her voice trembling as she pieced together the implications. "Does that mean the only reason I was made the heiress was to match with those memories?" Her hands tightened in her lap, her composed mask slipping to reveal the turmoil underneath. She turned to look at her father, her eyes searching for confirmation. "If that's the case," she continued, her voice firm despite the quiver beneath it, "then Nee-sama should have her title restored."
The sincerity in her words was unmistakable. Despite her confusion and the weight of the revelations, Hanabi's thoughts were focused on her sister. She had never desired the title for herself, and if Hinata had been wrongfully deprived of it because of manipulated memories, then to Hanabi, the right thing was clear. She would relinquish the role without hesitation if it meant justice for her sister.
Hinata's heart clenched at her sister's declaration. "Hanabi…" she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. She reached for Hanabi's hand, squeezing it gently, but her father's voice interrupted the tender moment.
"That is not possible." Hiashi's words cut through the air, final and unyielding.
Hanabi flinched, her brows furrowing as she opened her mouth to protest. "But—"
Hiashi raised a hand, his sharp gaze silencing her. "Listen to me," he said, his tone brooking no argument. "The reason you were named the heiress is not as shallow as a matter of preserving consistency with those altered memories. That was merely a necessary byproduct of the circumstances."
Hanabi blinked, startled by the intensity of his words. Her lips parted, but no sound came as Hiashi continued, his focus now shifting between both of his daughters.
"The truth is," he said, his voice softening slightly, "Hinata's destiny lies elsewhere. The wielder of the Nichiren Byakugan has a role that is separate from the duties of the Hyūga clan head. It is a responsibility that far exceeds the leadership of this family. That is why, Hanabi, you will take my place as head of the clan—not because Hinata is unfit, but because her path is a different one."
Hinata felt the air leave her lungs as she absorbed her father's words. A destiny that far exceeded the leadership of the clan? Her chest tightened as questions swirled in her mind. What could that mean? What was this so-called duty tied to her eyes?
"But…" Hanabi's voice broke the silence, her tone quieter now but no less determined. "If Nee-sama's power is so important, then shouldn't she have the support of the clan? How can I lead when I don't understand what she's meant to do?"
Hiashi's expression softened further—a rarity in the man who had always seemed so unyielding. "That is exactly why you must lead, Hanabi," he said. "Your role is to ensure the Hyūga remain strong and unified, so that Hinata can fulfill her destiny without the burden of our clan's internal struggles. Her path is not one she can walk while tethered to the weight of tradition and politics."
Hanabi's lips pressed into a thin line, her sharp mind processing his words. Slowly, she nodded, though her fingers still twitched in protest. "And what is this destiny?" she asked, her gaze flickering toward her sister. "What is the Nichiren Byakugan's purpose?"
Hiashi's eyes darkened slightly, and he hesitated for a moment before answering. "The Nichiren Byakugan is more than an evolution of our clan's Kekkei Genkai. It is a power that exists to counterbalance forces greater than any single clan, village, or even nation. The Hyūga have safeguarded knowledge of this power for generations. It is said that those who awaken the Nichiren Byakugan have a role to play in the greater struggles of the world—a role tied to the balance of natural energy and the preservation of harmony."
Hinata's hands trembled slightly in her lap. The weight of her father's words pressed down on her shoulders, but it wasn't fear she felt. It was an overwhelming sense of responsibility, mingled with uncertainty. She glanced at Hanabi, whose grip on her hand had tightened. Despite the younger girl's composed expression, Hinata could feel her sister's unease.
"I don't know if I'm ready for something like that," Hinata admitted softly, her voice barely audible. "I've only just begun to understand what this power is. How can I possibly fulfill a destiny I don't even comprehend?"
"You will learn," Hiashi said simply, his tone firm yet not unkind. "This is not a path you will walk alone. There are those who will guide you, just as you will guide others in time."
He gestured toward the stack of scrolls beside him. "These contain all the knowledge the Hyūga have preserved about the Nichiren Byakugan. They are yours now, to study and to understand. You will not find all the answers here, but they will serve as a starting point."
Hinata nodded slowly, her resolve beginning to steady. Though her mind still swirled with doubts, the unwavering support of her sister and the unexpected openness from her father gave her the strength to face the unknown.
Hanabi broke the silence again, her voice quiet but firm. "I understand, Father. I'll do everything I can to lead the clan. But…" She turned her gaze to Hinata, her expression softening. "I won't let you carry this burden alone, Nee-sama. Whatever your destiny is, I'll stand by you."
Hinata's heart swelled with gratitude, and she squeezed her sister's hand again, this time with more confidence. "Thank you, Hanabi. That means everything to me."
Hiashi nodded approvingly. "Good. That unity will serve you both well in the days to come."
As the conversation drew to a close, the air in the room felt lighter, as though an unspoken tension had finally been eased. Though the path ahead remained uncertain, Hinata and Hanabi found strength in each other, and for the first time, Hinata felt the beginnings of clarity about her place in the world.
Before she could take care of those duties to the world, she had one of more personal importance.
"Has… has Neji-nii-san come back to the compound yet?" Hinata asked, her voice soft but steady. Her hands fidgeted slightly at her sides, betraying her nervousness.
Hiashi's eyes widened just enough for her to notice before his usual composure returned. The shift was subtle, but it spoke volumes. Her question had taken him by surprise. "He has not returned," he admitted, his tone measured. "Why do you ask?"
Hinata's fingers tightened into fists, her nails pressing into her palms. "I need to tell him the truth," she said firmly. "About that day… and about these eyes." She glanced at the floor, her voice growing quieter but no less resolute. "He needs to hear it from me."
The weight of her words lingered in the room, and for a moment, Hiashi simply studied her. Hinata could feel his gaze, sharp and searching, but she refused to waver. She knew what she was asking for was foolish—telling Neji about the truth of his father's death and the power of her eyes could easily deepen the resentment he already harbored toward her. Yet the alternative—remaining silent, keeping him in the dark—felt far worse.
Her heart ached as she thought of Neji, the bitterness in his words during their fight, the anger in his eyes. She didn't know if her confession would change anything. It might even drive them further apart. But something deep within her told her this was the right thing to do.
Hiashi broke the silence, his voice calm but carrying a weight of his own. "When he does return, I will go with you."
Hinata's eyes widened in surprise. "You will?" she asked, unable to keep the shock out of her voice.
Hiashi nodded. "There is something I would like him to see after hearing what you have to say." His tone left no room for argument, but there was something in his expression that reassured her. This wasn't the rigid command of the clan head—it was the offer of a father who was finally trying to bridge the gap between himself and his family.
For the first time, Hinata felt a flicker of hope where her father was concerned. Such a proposition would have been unthinkable even a day ago. And yet here he was, offering to stand with her. She felt a warmth in her chest, something foreign but welcome.
"Thank you, Father," she said, bowing deeply.
Hiashi inclined his head, and with that, Hinata stood. Hanabi rose with her, falling naturally into step beside her sister. Without hesitation, they linked hands again, the small gesture of comfort and solidarity now feeling second nature.
As they turned to leave, Hiashi's voice called out once more. "Hinata."
She stopped, turning back to face him, her expression curious. His usual stern demeanor had melted away completely. In its place was something she had never seen directed at her before: a gentle smile. It was soft, almost wistful, and filled with emotions she couldn't immediately name.
"I am proud of you," he said quietly. His voice was steady, but there was a hint of melancholy in his tone. "And I am sorry… for all the pain I have caused you until now."
The words hung in the air, raw and unguarded. For a moment, Hinata simply stared at him, her heart tightening in her chest. This was the man who had been a source of so much of her self-doubt, her insecurities—the father she had thought would never truly see her. And now here he was, extending a hand of reconciliation in the only way he knew how.
The smile on his face was bittersweet, as though he didn't truly believe she could forgive him. It was an expression of a man who had made mistakes and had resigned himself to their consequences. This was his olive branch, offered with the quiet hope that it wouldn't be rejected.
Hinata didn't hesitate. Forgiveness wasn't something she had to wrestle with; it was simply who she was. She didn't respond with words, but her smile said everything. It was warm, kind, and filled with an unspoken understanding. Her expression softened the edges of his melancholy, and for the first time, Hiashi's eyes reflected a flicker of peace.
She bowed deeply, holding the gesture for a long moment before straightening. Then, without another word, she turned and left the room with Hanabi at her side.
The hallway was quiet, the sound of their soft footsteps filling the space between them. Hanabi clung closer to her than she had in years, her small hand gripping Hinata's tightly as though afraid to let go. Finally, she spoke, her voice hushed but clear.
"Nee-sama…" Hanabi began, her words trailing off into a yawn.
Hinata glanced down at her, her lips curving into a tender smile. "Yes, Hanabi?"
Hanabi hesitated, her cheeks coloring slightly as she broke eye contact. "Would it be alright if I…" She fidgeted, her usual composed demeanor faltering. "Can I sleep in your room tonight?"
The question caught Hinata off guard, but only for a moment. Her surprise melted into a broader smile, one that reached her eyes. There was a time when such a request might have felt like an imposition or even an oddity, but not now. The wall that had stood between them—erected by false memories and lingering misunderstandings—had finally crumbled. They were free to move forward.
"I would like that," Hinata said warmly.
Hanabi looked up at her, her small face lighting up with relief. She squeezed her sister's hand one more time as they continued down the hall together. For the first time in what felt like forever, Hinata felt at peace. The bonds she had feared were lost forever were still there, waiting to be mended. And with each step, she felt her resolve to face the challenges ahead grow stronger.
Chapter End
AN: With this chapter, I changed a lot about what happened during the Hyūga incident, both to kind of rectify Hiashi's early Canon characterization a little bit, and also justify some of the circumstances behind Hinata losing her title as the Heiress to Hanabi.