Hearing the Third Hokage's words, Hiashi's expression shifted. The Nine-Tails Jinchuriki!
In this world, the bonds cultivated since childhood are often much stronger than relationships based on habit.
One must know that currently, only the children of Ino–Shika–Chō are allowed near the Nine-Tails Jinchuriki.
However, the two great clans, the Hyuga Clan and the Uchiha, are strictly forbidden.
Ino–Shika–Chō has been the strongest supporter of the Hokage lineage since Konoha was founded.
The Uchiha goes without saying, while the Hyuga Clan, due to the Caged Bird Seal, listens more to the Main Family than to the Hokage.
This matter is far more than just finding playmates for children; it is a ticket to the future core of power.
If handled properly, the Hyuga Clan might be able to gain influence far exceeding their current standing through Hinata, perhaps even... checking the Uchiha to a certain extent.
Although this is a long-term investment, it is not an empty promise.
"Second, there is the immediate present."
The Third Hokage knew that Hiashi wouldn't be satisfied with just future prospects, so his tone became practical:
"Starting next month, the mission compensation and family allowances for all Hyuga Clan ninja, regardless of whether they are from the Main Family or Branch Family, will increase by forty percent based on the current rate."
"This is substantial compensation and gratitude from the Village for the sacrifice and loyalty the Hyuga Clan demonstrated during this incident."
This was tangible, immediate benefit that could instantly silence the entire Branch Family.
It could greatly alleviate the economic and political pressure on the Main Family, buying temporary stability and loyalty with money.
Hiruzen Sarutobi finally took a deep breath, his tone becoming heavy again, containing a subtle, almost imperceptible warning:
"Hiashi, this is the maximum concession and promise I can make."
"We need your strength back on duty. Konoha's defenses cannot do without the Hyuga's Byakugan."
"I believe, with your wisdom, you can see which choice is most beneficial to the clan."
"Let us put aside our differences and protect this Village together. This, I believe, is also the outcome Hizashi would want to see."
After hearing this, Hiashi weighed the pros and cons almost instantaneously.
Although he had been screwed over by Konoha, now was definitely not the time to completely fall out with the Hokage.
The survival and prosperity of the clan were paramount.
Since the Hokage was willing to offer such generous "hush money" and "compensation," going along with the situation was the most advantageous choice for the Main Family.
As for Hizashi's death?
Although the tragic state of his brother's death flashed through Hiashi's mind, it vanished instantly without a trace.
What replaced it was the composure of a leader of the Hyuga Main Family.
[His sacrifice, which exchanged for such immense benefits for the Main Family, can be considered... dying a worthy death.]
The frost on Hiashi's face slowly melted, replaced by a heavy expression mixed with grief and helplessness, yet carrying a hint of "putting the bigger picture first."
He remained silent for a moment, as if engaged in a fierce internal struggle, before finally letting out a long, resigned sigh.
"Hokage-sama..."
He spoke, his voice hoarse but regaining its usual composure,
"You overstate the matter. The culprit behind Hizashi's death is Kumogakure. This is something everyone in the Hyuga Clan will never forget."
"As for the bond you mentioned... between Konoha and the Hyuga Clan."
He nodded slightly, his gaze meeting Hiruzen Sarutobi's. The two seasoned politicians instantly understood the meaning in each other's eyes.
"It is Hinata's honor to be acquainted with Uzumaki Naruto. The Hyuga Clan has always been willing to contribute all its strength to the prosperity and stability of Konoha."
"As for the clan's treatment... on behalf of all clan members, I thank Hokage-sama for your consideration and generosity."
"We will surely convey this sentiment to every Branch Family member, which will hopefully soothe their grief and indignation over Hizashi's death, allowing them to serve the Village with greater peace of mind."
He stood up, his expression becoming incredibly "resolute" and "forbearing":
"Please rest assured. The Hyuga Clan understands the bigger picture. I will personally explain to the clan members that we hold Kumogakure responsible for Hizashi's vengeance! Konoha and the Hyuga Clan will always be one!"
Hiruzen Sarutobi looked at Hiashi, his eyes revealing expressions of "relief" and "gratitude":
"Hiashi, it is Konoha's blessing that you are so deeply understanding of the greater good. In that case, I entrust the matter of appeasing your clan members to you."
"Let us... together send Hizashi off on his final journey, and together, help the Village overcome this ordeal."
Having received the tangible benefits, Hiashi extended his hand and made a gesture of invitation toward the Third Hokage.
Hiruzen Sarutobi gladly followed Hiashi toward Hizashi's memorial hall... The arrival of the Third Hokage added a layer of silent anger to the solemn and dignified funeral atmosphere.
The gazes of the Branch Family focused on him, those looks cold and full of doubt.
Everyone knew that Hiruzen Sarutobi had chosen not to protect those who fought for Konoha, but instead came to pressure the Hyuga Clan into handing someone over.
Hizashi's tragic death was fresh in everyone's minds, making it difficult for them to have a good impression of him.
Neji glared at the Third Hokage, his eyes filled with rage and hatred, tiny blood vessels constantly creeping across his eyes due to congestion.
He was simply too young to do anything.
The Third Hokage ignored the looks from the many Branch Family members, walked up to the front, his expression solemn, grief-stricken, and even carrying a perfectly measured hint of fatigue and shame.
He first bowed deeply toward Hizashi's portrait, holding the posture for a long time, making the gesture very complete.
When he lifted his head, his eyes seemed to glisten with tears, and his voice was mournful and deeply moving:
"Fellow members of the Hyuga Clan, today, we stand here, with hearts filled with immense sorrow, to bid farewell to a hero—Hyuga Hizashi."
"His death is Konoha's tragedy, and a great loss for the Land of Fire."
"I know that at this moment, your hearts are filled with sadness, and endless rage."
"And I, as the Hokage, feel no less pain and self-reproach than any of you."
"However, our anger should not be directed toward each other, nor should it be directed toward Konoha, the home we jointly protect!"
His voice suddenly rose, becoming firm and powerful, filled with fury:
"Our true enemies are those who betrayed trust, played schemes, used the most despicable means to sow discord, and forced us to sacrifice our own hero—the Hidden Cloud Village!"
"It was them who sent the thief to kidnap Hinata! It was them who turned around and counter-accused after being rightfully defended against!"
"It was them who used shameless lies and the threat of war to push us into an impossible dilemma!"
"Hizashi saw through all of this. He knew that if war were to restart because of Kumogakure's schemes, how many mothers in Konoha would lose their sons, and how many children would lose their fathers!"
"He chose the cruelest method, using his own life, not only to save his elder brother's life but also to protect the peace of the entire Village!"
"Through his death, he completely exposed Kumogakure's hypocrisy and greed! He sacrificed himself to protect all of us!"
"As Hokage, I failed to prevent this tragedy, and I bear the inescapable responsibility."
"I apologize to Hizashi's soul, and I apologize to all members of the Hyuga Clan."
"We have lost a great ninja, but his death will absolutely not be in vain!"
"Konoha will forever remember this hatred and shame! One day, we will make Kumogakure pay the price they deserve for their despicable actions!"
...