The Hidden Evidence: Could Neji and Tenten Have Been Intended to Be More?

Over the years, fans of Naruto have wondered about the complex relationship between Neji and Tenten. While creator Masashi Kishimoto has not explicitly confirmed that Neji would have married Tenten if he had survived, numerous hints and implications in the series suggest a deeper bond between the two characters.

Hints of a Deeper Bond

One of the most notable instances of fans interpreting a romantic link between Neji and Tenten is the epilogue of Naruto. In the final pages, Tenten is deeply affected by Neji's death, an event often interpreted by fans as a sign of her feelings towards him. Although there are numerous scenes showing their interactions, these interactions are sometimes considered necessary fillers.

Author's Intentions and Closures

Throughout the series, Kishimoto has made it clear that certain couples, such as Naruto and Hinata, and Sasuke and Sakura, were always intended to be together. However, the same cannot be said for Neji and Tenten. Critics have noted that they were not as close or as prominently featured as other potential couples like Shikamaru and Temari, and Sai and Ino. Despite this, many fans still believe that there might have been more to their relationship.

Unusual Suspects: Hints from Supplements and Symbolisms

The evidence for a potentially deeper relationship between Neji and Tenten is not just evident in their interactions. Kishimoto has used various methods to cement their bond, from consistent pairing in scenes to symbolic references. For example, their zodiac signs (Tenten: Pisces, Neji: Cancer) and the theme song they share are often seen as meaningful.

Symbolism and Closeness

Symbolically, Neji and Tenten's zodiac signs and names are interconnected. Pisces and Cancer are naturally harmonious, which fits perfectly with their relationship. Additionally, Tenten's name meaning "Heaven-Heaven" and Neji being connected to a caged bird (signifying a desire for freedom) create a compelling narrative. The idea that birds fly to them when they are together suggests a shared destiny.

Further Evidence and Interpretations

Interests and 'coincidences' within the series lend further support to the idea that Neji and Tenten had a special connection. Neji's belief in fate and Tenten's interest in fortune telling align, while shared blood groups (Tenten's B, Neji's O) add another layer of compatibility. When we consider the parallel with other well-known pairs, such as Hashirama and Mito, and Sasuke and Sakura, we see even more evidence of Kishimoto's symbolic use of character traits.

Explicit Connections and Fan Speculation

Another piece of evidence comes from the Naruto Retsuden novel, where it is mentioned that Neji was trying to cure Tenten's depression. This further strengthens the case for a deeper, meaningful connection between the two characters. Despite the lack of explicit confirmation, the consistent symbolic and narrative connections suggest that Kishimoto had intentions with Neji and Tenten's relationship.

In conclusion, while Kishimoto has not explicitly confirmed that Neji and Tenten would have married if Neji had survived, the consistent hints, symbolic connections, and supporting evidence from the world of Naruto make a strong case for a deeper, more meaningful relationship between the characters. Fans continue to speculate and draw their own conclusions based on the available material.