The Hyuga clan's residence stood ancient and solemn, exuding a quiet sense of dignity.
Hinata gently held Himawari's small hand, with Boruto following closely behind.
"The strongest clan in Konoha…" Boruto murmured as he looked up at the grand plaque engraved with the word 'Hyuga.' A soft sigh escaped his lips.
Suddenly, without a sound, a figure appeared behind him.
His pupils were as pure as snow, his expression stern yet calm. The gray at his temples and the lines of age on his face carried both wisdom and time's weight.
It was Hiashi Hyuga, who had silently approached without Boruto even noticing.
Hiashi's serious face softened instantly as he smiled and pulled Boruto into a gentle embrace, ruffling his hair fondly.
"Come now, Boruto," he said warmly.
"Grandpa!"
Himawari's sweet, bell-like voice rang out. She ran forward joyfully and leaped into Hiashi's arms.
Hiashi's eyes softened with affection as he bent down to hug her tightly. He brushed his fingers over Boruto and Himawari's cheeks, savoring the rare feeling of family happiness.
Himawari's smile bloomed like spring, while Boruto stood beside them, half-helpless, half-smiling.
Hinata watched quietly, warmth spreading in her heart as she smiled softly.
Just then, the door slid open and Hanabi Hyuga stepped out. "Sister, you're here."
"Father," she greeted, though a faint hint of teasing flickered in her eyes before she hid it.
Hiashi turned toward his younger daughter, releasing Boruto and Himawari with a smile.
"Long time no see, Father. Hanabi," Hinata greeted gently.
Hanabi gave a small huff, though the corners of her mouth lifted slightly. "Father's pretending to be kind again in front of the kids."
Despite her words, she walked toward Boruto and Himawari with the same tender gestures Hiashi had just shown.
"Boruto, you've grown taller again—you're starting to look more and more like your father."
"And Himawari, you're still so cute. Your smile looks just like your mother's. Come here and let your sister hug you."
She gathered both children into her arms with affection.
"Alright, alright. Let's go inside first," Hiashi said, patting Hanabi's shoulder and motioning for everyone to enter.
A while later, laughter echoed through the courtyard as Hanabi played with Himawari among the flowers.
Inside, Hiashi sat down with Hinata and Boruto, closing the door behind him. His sharp eyes settled on Boruto.
"Boruto, show your Jōgan to your grandfather."
His tone carried both expectation and pride.
"Father…" Hinata called softly, a trace of helplessness in her voice.
Every time we visit, Grandpa Hiashi can't hide his curiosity about Boruto's Jōgan, Boruto thought, sighing inwardly.
Still, he nodded and closed his eyes.
When he opened them again, his pupils had transformed into dazzling orbs of silver, shimmering with faint prismatic light—the Jōgan.
Hiashi's expression grew complicated as he studied the boy's eyes. The images of Kaguya Ōtsutsuki and Toneri Ōtsutsuki flashed through his mind.
Jōgan… I never imagined the Hyuga clan's Byakugan could evolve in this way, like the Uchiha's Sharingan.
But… is this truly evolution—or something else? A reversion? A mutation?
After a pause, Hiashi composed himself and asked seriously, "Boruto, how much control do you have over this power?"
Boruto blinked. "Mastery level? I've grasped the basic abilities of the Jōgan."
Hiashi nodded in approval. "Good. You've come far, Boruto. You've learned to command the power of those eyes."
He rose slowly and pushed the door open, stepping outside.
"Then come," he said, glancing back with a faint smile. "Let your grandfather see just how powerful you've become."
Hinata's eyes widened. "Father, what are you doing?"
"This is a test," Hiashi replied calmly. "In the past, villages fought fiercely for power. Some even tried to steal the Hyuga clan's eye techniques."
"As the clan's treasured bloodline, the Byakugan became the target of countless enemies. To protect it, the Hyuga created the Branch Family and the cursed mark—the 'Caged Bird' seal."
"The Jōgan's power far surpasses even that. And though Konoha is at peace, the world beyond still breeds danger. Bandits, mercenaries, missing-nin… peace never lasts forever."
Hiashi's tone grew solemn. "Boruto, show me if you're worthy of protecting such strength."
Inwardly, he thought, If Boruto's power isn't enough, when he graduates and becomes a ninja, I'll assign five Hyuga guardians to secretly protect him.
Before he could act, Hanabi stepped forward, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Father, come on—you're just looking for an excuse to show off. You'll throw your back out and be stuck in bed for a week."
Hiashi paused mid-step, his expression stiffening.
Hanabi crossed her arms, smirking. "Besides, you don't exactly know mercy. Boruto will end up hating you."
Hiashi coughed lightly. "…Fine. I'll leave it to you, Hanabi."
Hanabi turned toward Boruto with a teasing smile. "So, Boruto, do you want to spar with me instead?"
Boruto grinned confidently. "Since my aunt wants to fight, I guess I can't refuse."
"Aunt?" Hanabi's smile twitched. "Hey! How many times do I have to tell you to call me sister?"
Boruto shook his head stubbornly. "Aunt is aunt. I can't call you sister."
Hanabi cracked her knuckles and smirked. "Then I'll just beat you until you do."
"Hanabi!" Hinata said quickly, worried.
"Don't worry, sister. I'll show mercy," Hanabi replied with a reassuring smile.
At the Hyuga clan's training grounds, several clan members were already practicing.
When Hiashi, Hanabi, Hinata, and Boruto arrived, everyone immediately stopped and bowed respectfully.
"Clan Head!"
"Lady Hanabi and Lady Hinata are here too!"
Hiashi gave a dignified nod in response.
In the center of the field, Boruto and Hanabi stood facing each other.
Hiashi crossed his arms and observed silently, his pale eyes sharp and unreadable, as the air between them began to hum with tension.