"You've done so well. My judgment back then was truly good—I took a liking to someone like you, kept you in my home, and gradually discovered that your purpose was indeed not as simple as I had thought."
"Actually, I had some doubts and reservations at first. I was afraid you wouldn't be able to handle it, and that in the end, you would not only burden yourself but us as well. But gradually, your strength and ability made us believe in you, and you proved yourself."
"Good child, you'll fly farther and higher in the future. I only hope that you can remain safe and sound along the way, without encountering any setbacks or troubles."
As the old man spoke, his heart ached terribly. He had never expected parting to come so soon. He had always thought something like this was still far away, but while the old man was so saddened, wasn't Uchiha Hikaru just as reluctant in his heart?
He knew their separation would come sooner or later, but he had not expected it to arrive so quickly. In truth, he had not prepared himself at all. He simply felt that time had passed too quickly here.
Because from the beginning until now, Uchiha Hikaru had gradually gained others' approval and trust here. He had also experienced joy and happiness he had never known before.
Now, whenever he walked down the street, the townspeople would greet him. Uchiha Hikaru felt a warmth unlike anything before. He felt that the world was reciprocal—if you sincerely treated others well, they would return that same love to you.
"The palace... to be honest, it holds too many painful memories. It carries so much of my sorrow and grief. I don't want to go back. I just want to live here