Hizashi Hyuga's departing steps were steady and precise.
Every step landed at a fixed distance.
That was the rule of the Branch Family.
He passed through the corridor and left the courtyard, casting the stifling atmosphere of the Main Family behind him.
Only when he pushed open the small gate to his own home did he slow down.
The gate hinges turned softly.
The courtyard was small, with several unidentified wildflowers growing in the corners, adding a touch of life to the oppressive clan.
A woman stood beneath the eaves, holding a freshly dried outer robe as she quietly waited for him.
She was Hizashi's wife, also born into the Branch Family.
When she saw Hizashi return, her expression barely changed, but her pure Byakugan softened.
"You're back."
Her voice was gentle, like a breeze brushing past.
"Mm."
Hizashi answered and set his luggage and cash box beneath the eaves.
The woman stepped forward, naturally taking the outer robe he had removed. Then she picked up the dried clothing and carefully helped him put it on.
Her fingers were deft and her movements gentle, smoothing every wrinkle from his clothes.
"Everything is ready," the woman said softly.
"Mm."
Hizashi answered again and reached out, gently taking his wife's slightly cold hand.
Neither of them spoke again.
Yet within that silence flowed a tacit understanding and warmth outsiders could never comprehend.
They walked into the house side by side.
The room was small, but it had been kept neat and orderly.
On the tatami lay a tiny figure, sleeping peacefully beneath the bedding.
It was their child, Neji.
Neji Hyuga.
Only a few months old, his little face was plump, his eyelashes long, and every so often, his tiny mouth would smack softly.
Hizashi sat on his knees beside the bedding,