Fourteenth Sunshine [Video Post]

[hyuugahime]

[Hinata is back at Unohana's Clinic. She's been seen to and bandaged and patched up, but from where she is lying on her stomach on the bed, one can see that the beautiful, purple butterfly wings that took up most of her back at the beginning of the week have been torrn to shreds.

The damage was heavy, and obviously, Unohana wasn't able to repair it all. There is still some dried blood flaking on the wings where minute tears are mending, and Hinata's face constrict with pain every time they flutter.

The kunoichi is gritting her teeth, apparently fighting back tears and failing when a sob finally escapes her.]

N-Naruto-kun ... W-Why can't I ... ever help anyone ?

[The feed switches off.]

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[heavenly-earth.livejournal.com]

[He wasn't, but that was far from the point. As it was, her statement- although incomplete- trailed off with an implication he wasn't sure he wanted to consider for too long. But now that his own integrity came into question, he finds himself uncertain.

The dull, silvery feathers on his back shift restlessly- an ironic testament, weighted down and unable to fly]

Then... I'll continue to protect you by my own choosing. [Because he's not really sure he can do anything else.

A bird kept inside a cage will sometimes question freedom when the cage is opened, the passive behaviour ingrained while uncertainty prevents a hopeful flight. The words sounded pretty at least, and maybe it's what Hinata wants to hear from him.]

As for your strength, Hinata-sama, only Hyuuga can teach others.

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[hyuugahime]

[A bit of determination comes back to her eyes, and she looks up at him, shyness gone for now.]

T-Then ... Can you teach me, Neji-niisan ?

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[heavenly-earth.livejournal.com]

[A slow nod- incremental really- and white eyes meet Hinata's.]

I helped train you somewhat in your past arrivals, so I suppose it's fitting even if I didn't expect you to remain here this long.

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[hyuugahime]

T-Thank you ! I'll do my best !

[Her eyes soften, and she takes the lunch box in her hands. this is why she says you're kind, Neji.]

And for this as well. Thank you.

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[heavenly-earth.livejournal.com]

Of course. When you've recovered sufficiently, then...

[He bows slightly- ever formal- and turns]

For now, please rest, Hinata-sama.

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[hyuugahime]

[She bows back from her sitting position, and won't raise her head until he's left the room.

She is still holding the lunchbox.]