As everyone knows, ninja aren't quite like ordinary primates. Some of their offspring develop in ways quite inconsistent with typical human patterns—not just physically maturing earlier, but a significant number also exhibit rapid development in brain cells and cognitive abilities.
Hyuga Neji wasn't the most special among these unique individuals. After all, his brain couldn't develop into that of a Hokage by age seven, instantly evolving from kindergarten to a nursing home while simultaneously suffering from mental rigidity akin to senile dementia… (The age Neji contemplated the Main/Branch divide and felt 'clan hatred' was the same age Itachi Uchiha pondered philosophical questions like world peace—both practically just weaned.)
But regardless, Neji's intelligence and comprehension were certainly far above the average for children his age.
Following his father Hizashi's introduction, Neji Hyuga immediately bowed very respectfully towards Habara. The small child performed the precise movements meticulously. Theoretically, it should have looked quite adorable, yet when Habara looked at the boy, his mind kept flashing back to the famous scene of him getting impaled by a wooden stake.
Because Habara didn't immediately agree to Hizashi's request, Neji silently maintained his deep bow.
After thinking for a moment, Habara roughly understood the Hyuga clan's considerations. Clearly, they wanted to establish contact with Kushina Uzumaki and "Akakammuri." Those with sensitive minds and a long-term perspective could naturally understand the significance of this organization and the potential changes it might bring. However, if Hiashi Hyuga, as the clan head, were to approach directly, the signal could easily be misinterpreted as the entire Hyuga clan pledging allegiance, which would be politically highly improper.
In a relatively stable political environment, making such a sudden shift in stance would inevitably make people suspect someone was trying to stir up trouble, and major trouble at that. Some might not care, but those who paid close attention to internal power struggles would definitely not ignore such subtle moves.
But if the contact was made through Hizashi, or even Neji, then there was no such problem. It had to be said, this was a very clever approach.
"For ninja from clans like yours, receiving family education is the most orthodox and correct path," Habara began, "While I may have some small measure of strength, what does that amount to compared to an esteemed clan with a long history? Besides, I'm not good at teaching…"
Habara instinctively refused. It wasn't that his reasoning was particularly complex or meticulous; he just subconsciously felt such things were too troublesome. Teaching a student was like raising a child, and Habara had absolutely no interest in raising children.
"Moreover, you should be aware of my history in Konoha. To put it bluntly, I don't like ninja clans, especially the large ones. To commoner ninja like us, you are all the privileged class."
These words were quite blunt, but they were undeniably true, not just Habara's personal opinion or irrational prejudice. Within Konoha, conflicts definitely existed between commoner ninja and clan ninja; they were just well suppressed, so even if some people had grievances, they couldn't make significant waves.
After a pause, Habara added, "I won't mince words. I can tell you that one of the purposes behind Akakammuri's establishment is to ensure 'equal opportunity' for the village's ninja."
It's an organization specifically targeting the large clans, yet you still want to get involved? What's this, like Russia joining NATO, perhaps?
However, although Habara's words sounded resolute, the phrase "equal opportunity" actually lacked forceful impact; it was quite euphemistic. He understood the art of conversation, at least to some extent.
Hizashi smiled, then addressed each point. "Clinging to tradition isn't necessarily a bad thing, but failing to keep pace with the times can lead to a clan's extinction. The problems and pains faced by a vast and ancient clan like the Hyuga are likely unimaginable to you, Habara-jonin."
That much was true. Only someone like Hizashi could feel that kind of acute personal suffering; an outsider and bystander like Habara naturally couldn't understand their specific feelings.
"You speak of clans with deep foundations, but a ninja's talent ultimately manifests in different ways. It's been a long time since the Hyuga clan produced an exceptionally outstanding ninja, let alone one comparable in strength to you, Habara-jonin… We are also seeking change."
Hizashi's statement implied that the Hyuga clan hadn't produced a ninja who surpassed the standard specifications in a long time, implicitly criticizing even his own brother, Hiashi Hyuga. Was Hiashi strong? Of course, very strong, but his strength could be summed up in two words: Jonin.
Ultimately, Hiashi was just Jonin-level. A high-level Jonin, but still just a Jonin.
"As for you saying you dislike large clans—firstly, no one can deny that the large clans form the pillars of Konoha. With the support of these pillars, smaller ninja and civilians gathered, forming Konoha village. Undeniably, to this day, some pillars remain strong, while others have begun to rot. Secondly, regarding the Hyuga clan specifically, do you think someone like me would be particularly fond of the clan's rules and regulations?"
As he spoke, Hizashi pointed towards his own forehead protector. Habara understood he was actually referring to the Caged Bird Seal hidden beneath. Since no one else was present, Hizashi allowed himself to express his dissatisfaction with the Hyuga Main House and the Main-Branch system, albeit with great restraint.
"Regarding your 'equal opportunity,' from a personal standpoint, I actually wholeheartedly agree. Habara-jonin, although you believe commoner ninja often face unfair treatment, compare a commoner ninja like yourself to a clan ninja like me—at least your very life isn't held captive, controlled by the hands of others, is it?"
Everyone has their own tragic story. If they were comparing tragic stories, who would back down? Everyone believes they are the most miserable.
When Hizashi mentioned Habara's commoner ninja status, he actually did so with a hint of teasing. He felt Habara might have an identity crisis—how could a Kekkei Genkai ninja possibly be considered of commoner origin?
"So, Habara-jonin, please, reconsider my request. If not for anything else, then just for this child…" Hizashi pleaded again, sincerely.
Habara's gaze returned to Neji Hyuga. Throughout their conversation, Neji had maintained his posture, which looked incredibly tiring. By now, he could barely suppress the trembling of his body.
Taking on a student was troublesome, but refusing Hizashi seemed even more troublesome. They'd inevitably run into each other; completely shutting him down seemed impolite. Perhaps it wouldn't hurt to agree for now; future matters could be dealt with later. Mostly, Habara couldn't be bothered thinking of further ways to refuse.
You people really are skilled when it comes to humbling yourselves. Let's hope this doesn't turn into the story of the farmer and the snake… Thinking this, Habara figured it was ultimately just stuffing one reserve member into the organization, so he reluctantly nodded.
"Alright. It seems I can't find a reason to refuse."
Ignoring the look of resignation on Habara's face, Hizashi broke into a smile. He took two steps forward, gently patted his son's back, and said:
"Quickly, you can call him Habara-sensei now."