That's the only thought Neji Hyuuga could formulate in this situation. His love for fighting was already forgotten as the need to protect was winning over his emotions.
As he was informed about the deaths of Ino and Shikamaru's fathers his heart stopped for a second.
'It couldn't be' he thought grimly. I can't let another person die. I can't leave another heart in dispair. It wasn't fair. This battle was bringing back memories of his past, of his father.
He shook his head. He needs to keep his head clear.
He used his hakkeshou kaiten as ordered, his will to fight rising again in his chest.
As he listened to Naruto he felt pride. Pride in himself, grateful to Naruto for accepting his strenght, his loyalty.
But this was a fight and as his uncle said, it is not the time to space out. He encouraged Naruto to concentrate because they needed his power. Because Naruto was their only hope for the future.
As his family stood across him he felt powerful. He was a Hyuuga, he was strong.
And...he couldn't lose.
His pride lessened as Mokuton-Sashiki no Jutsu was released.
He couldn t spin fast enough! It was worthless. He couldn't even dodge them properly, they were too many.
He tried to protect Naruto and his plan was a succes. Now Hermit mode Naruto was fighting again.
A turn of events made his heart stop again.
'Save them' a voice in his head called. Hinata and Naruto were in danger.
Without thinking he moved to protect them.
The pain started. As he fell he felt all those thorns piercing through him and it hurt. It hurt so much. He could barely stop himself from screaming in pain.
He knew from the start. Even though Naruto freed him from his cage his destiny was the same.
Now he understood.
As Naruto tried to call for a medical team he stopped him. It was no use. He was already lost to this world.
So he smiled to them, his lights. Naruto and Hinata started crying but he felt happy. Incredible happy. Now he finally understood. His meaning in life...was to protect. He could only hope they could manage without him.
As his life slipped from his hands he remembered Naruto's words. So he smiled again and told them his last words:
"Because...you told me...that I'm a genius..."
And so he died, protecting his friends.
He was free.
A/N: thanks for reading. I hope you enjoyed my little drabble.
I was really moved by the new Naruto chapter (and when I say moved I actually almost cried). The story was beta-ed by my friend Anna (thanks for putting up with me even though you re sleepy!)
Well, now the disclaimer Neji-san ? Agh, I already forgot he s not here so I need to say the disclaimer myself: I don t own Naruto, Kishimoto does. So blame him for all this angsty plot twist.
Ow, and for this story (or if you wanna read the manga chapter again I recommend the song Uninstall by Chiaki Ishikawa.
Bye be (Belphegor from KHR s style)
Mirunique