Warning: Character death and feels. The author cried while writing this.
Lee's POV
They're leading a counterattack right now, thanks to you, you stubborn genius.
You saved those close to you, in your final moments knowing you did the right thing. You could have chosen otherwise, had so many years to live, but you knew the right choice.
I wasn't there like Naruto and Hinata, to watch you throw your life away.
But I think I understand why you did that.
You felt forsaken from such a young age, Hinata always getting the better and losing those whom you felt were close. That bitterness grew, giving you drive to be better because you couldn't change things.
Isn't that what inspired so many heroes?
When your death was announced, I was in such a state of shock… Seeing your body broke my heart. You tried so hard, giving your all to your way of life. Believing so firmly in destiny, that it could not change.
Reprimanding me, telling me I could never be who I wanted to be since I couldn't use my chakra. It stung like hell, but now I'm grateful. You convinced me to train harder, and I started to respect you more and more.
Naruto inspired you to be different, changed how you saw yourself and you became a better person. He taught you more about yourself, convicting you there was more than destiny.
For a while, I was jealous. Why couldn't I make an impact like that on your life?
I realize now that that was wrong, that Naruto made you who you are… you were.
I bit my lip, holding back tears as the others watch me. I'm not allowed to cry. Not allowed to cry…
"Neji…" I whisper, brushing the bloodied strands of hair out of your face, your eyes closed peacefully.
I feel tears falling, seeing scarlet from your wounds drench your clothes and grime all over your face.
Tenten is telling me not to cry. But how can I not, having lost someone like you?
Someone who was so close to me, gone within one battle.. The word of your death is spread around, bringing sadness but strengthening the resolve of the Shinobi.
As I look at you, a beautiful creature even in death, I know I will not let your story fade away. You'll inspire many others, even as you are now.
They'll tell the legend of Neji Hyuga, a genius who was willing to sacrifice everything, and did. Of how he fought in battle, prevailing even when death snared him in its jaws.
Of how he survived horrific wounds and kept fighting. Of how in the end, he knew what he had to do to save and inspire many others.
Blood coats your lips, a small smile on them. You died smiling, with last words that will be remembered.
I reach out, placing one hand over your heart. "They'll remember you, Neji. That's my promise of not one, not a hundred, but a million lifetimes. They'll tell your story, I promise."
I stand now in front of your grave, holding some flowers that I place down. I smile slightly, Tenten, my new wife, watching from the side.
"You're a legend now, Neji. A Shinobi legend. Everything in the end was worth it."
Tenten nods at me, looking both joyful and sad at the same time. I continue.
"Naruto is hokage now, isn't that something? I knew he had it in him. Sasuke's back and everyone's starting families. It's crazy."
My wife pays her respects, and we leave together.
I miss you Neji, but I'm honored to have known you. You truly were a legend.
"A legend is a hero who died."
RIP my heart. Just.. poor Neji and poor Lee.
I was listening to sad music and got inspired to write this. I hope it inspired you to feel human emotions of some sort.
