The boost of rage she received from Karkat startled her, but it helped strengthen her resolve. Hanabi grounded herself when Neji darted in, glaring at him. The anger she felt was enough to galvanize her.

"I'd rather be naive than blind," she snapped at Neji. When the word 'blind' was used to refer to someone with the condition, it wasn't intended as an insult in the slightest. To those in the Hyuuga clan, whose Byakugan gave them vision that was greatly enhanced beyond a normal person's capabilities, it was even more insulting than being called impotent. To add to the insult, Hanabi's Meister ability didn't even function like Byakugan. It functioned like Jyuuken instead.

She brought Karkat up defensively, preparing herself. She had to be mindful of Karkat's injuries, so she would dodge where she could and take Neji down as fast as she could manage.

"I'll make you see the truth."

The best way to fight Neji effectively was to make use of her small size. He had her outclassed in terms of experience, physical strength, and natural talent. She had the advantage of being a smaller target, holding a Weapon, and her Soul Menace.