"Ever since I was born, I never got to live my own life. Though I was only a few minutes younger than you, I was destined to become a branch family member, as though shackled by fate. My lifelong duty was to protect main family members like you, Brother. But I was never willing to accept that! I wanted freedom too! I wanted to do what I wanted to do! This time, it is my own choice!"
"Hizashi!"
As he put away the letter, Hyuga Hiashi grabbed his hand. Hizashi Hyuga shook his head slightly, sighed, and waved the letter in his hand as he joked.
"This letter is for Neji! Unfortunately, he is still too young. I hope you will give it to him once he comes of age, Brother! It is a shame I will never get to watch him grow up!"
"I'm sorry! I'm sorry!"
Kneeling before Hizashi Hyuga, Hyuga Hiashi suddenly realized that he did not understand his younger brother at all. Though they had appeared to be brothers all these years, he had never truly cared for him. Yet when he needed help the most, his brother had helped him so much. Hyuga Hiashi was ashamed beyond measure.
The fading glow of the setting sun shone into the room through the doors and windows. Tears streamed from the corners of Hyuga Hiashi's eyes as he repeatedly pounded the floor. Hizashi Hyuga placed the letter into its envelope, then carefully wrote his son's name on it: "Hyuga Neji: To Be Opened Personally." He rose without looking back at the remorseful, regretful Hyuga Hiashi and slowly walked out of the room.
"Please tell Neji that I did not choose death because a branch family member must protect the main family. I chose it because I wanted to