Winter

Neji breathed in the chilly blast of air, feeling the small snowflakes whip against his pale cheek like hail. The small snowstorm had shut down everything in Konoha, who was slightly unaccustomed to these forces of nature.

But Neji had firmly told Hiashi that he was going to go train with Tenten, even in this weather and had set out before the clan leader could order him back. The prodigy had arrived at the training grounds extra early so he could meditate in the snow.

Relations between the Main house and the Branch family were still slightly strained, but Neji had developed an understanding and better relationship with Hinata and Hiashi. His training had improved tremendously, with him learning a new Hyuuga jutsu and almost beating Lee in terms of speed (but that was with his weights on).

And Tenten was always there, supporting him without question and sacrificing whatever she had to in order to help him reach his goal. She had the key to unlock his cage.

Neji smiled a little bit to himself. He was glad that he had Tenten beside him. She was the only one who gave him (sane) support. The Hyuuga family only saw his potential power and fighting skills. Everyone else was scared of him. Lee and Gai…well, their support probably wouldn’t do him much good.

Neji sat down on a frozen tree stump, crossing his legs Indian style and closing his eyes, relaxing his body and reveling in the fierce blow of the snowstorm.

It was cold, he couldn’t deny that but Neji welcomed it. The cold shielded him from the uncertainties and doubts that echoed around him. Neji loved the power of the storm; it had the ability to destroy everything yet it didn’t. The huge power was controlled, and that was what Neji had always wanted to achieve.

The Hyuuga breathed deeply, feeling the snow tickle and hit his exposed face. He focused on the sounds around him, hearing the howl of the wind and the sharp smacking sound of snow hitting the trees.

The prodigy’s mind was in a whirlwind, deciding what he had to do tomorrow, what jutsus he had to train on, when to meet Tenten, what things Hiashi – sama wanted him to do and what upcoming missions he had.

As time passed, Neji’s mind quieted and become organized. His tense muscles relaxed and his breathing evened out.

At the same time, the snowstorm died down and was left with silent snow falling softly.

“I swear, you and winter could almost be brothers.”

That voice brought Neji back to the real world, reluctantly opening his eyes. He saw Tenten standing in front of him wearing a slightly dark blue winter jacket and white gloves, scarf and toque.

“Why do you say that?” Neji asked in a slightly monotone voice.

“Your power could equal up to winter’s monstrous snowstorms, no joke,” Tenten smiled, “And when it gets all quiet like this, it just kind of reflects your personality.”

“So you think I’m cold.”

“Not cold,” Tenten paused, thinking, “…just quiet. You train to meet your goal but your path isn’t carved out for you like others…you carve your own path, making your own decisions and achievements. It’s what makes you so special.”

Neji stood up, stuffing his stiff hands into his pockets to warm them. He had forgotten mittens.

“And plus,” Tenten continued, reflecting, “I find that the snow frees you.”

Neji looked up at her, slightly surprised. If anything, he would’ve thought Tenten freed him.

Tenten smiled up at him, reaching hesitantly to cradle his cold cheek in her warm, gloved hands.

“You should learn to relax and let things go a little more,” she remarked softly, “To stop and smell the flowers.”

Neji felt her hand dropped and he looked at the sky. The cloudy grey sky seemed to blanket over everything, the soft puffs of snow falling slowly, softly to the already thickly layered ground.

Somehow, in the quiet, muffled surroundings of the snow and tall, overlapping trees and the warm, comforting presence of Tenten, Neji felt at peace. He felt content and calm for the first time since…well, since his father died.

Neji felt his heart lift. He tilted his head back to fully stare at the sky, which seemed to stare back at him, comforting him. The prodigy felt like he could just jump and fly high into the sky, free and unrestrained from the binds and locks of the Hyuuga.

Free as a bird.

The cage was unlocked.

Neji turned towards a trail heading into the forest and threw a glance at Tenten, telling her to come join him. He felt elated.

“Neji?” Tenten asked, a question in her eyes as she stepped forwards to accompany him. Her footprint left a bare print on the ground, the grass showing slightly. It was a faint reminder that spring was just around the corner.

What are you doing?

Neji smiled at her, his soul at peace.

“Taking the time to smell the flowers.”