"Of course." Anyone else might have laughed; Hizashi simply smiled knowingly instead, inclining his head. Scheduling was an uncertain proposition at best, especially between trying to work around two active Jounin's obligations--and especially when one of those Jounins was studying to become a fully-functioning member of ANBU. Asking either of them to stick to a set time..... that was just asking for disaster.
Now that Neji knew the full extend of Hizashi's obligations, though, was there any wonder that the fine worry lines around his eyes had slowly grown over the years? Was it surprising at all, that occasionally the mask slipped, and a hint of that strain peeked out? As controlled and disciplined as Hizashi was, as smooth and seamless a facade as he adopted, even he wasn't perfect. He might not have wanted to show anyone the uglier side of himself or his duties, but that didn't mean he could keep it neatly tucked away behind a mask all the time--whether that mask was made of porcelain or something far more intangible.
"I should send word sometime in the next few days, then..... Good luck, Neji. Don't hesitate to let me know if you need anything." It's not much, not really, just an almost formal parting of ways between two family members, with only the expected sentiments and encouragements being given. Still, the offer is genuine--if Neji needs anything, then he'll be there as quickly as possible, ready to provide anything it's in his power to get. He may not be able to give Neji the world, but Hizashi had already long since given him his world, to take from at his leisure; in the end, that would have to be enough.
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Now that Neji knew the full extend of Hizashi's obligations, though, was there any wonder that the fine worry lines around his eyes had slowly grown over the years? Was it surprising at all, that occasionally the mask slipped, and a hint of that strain peeked out? As controlled and disciplined as Hizashi was, as smooth and seamless a facade as he adopted, even he wasn't perfect. He might not have wanted to show anyone the uglier side of himself or his duties, but that didn't mean he could keep it neatly tucked away behind a mask all the time--whether that mask was made of porcelain or something far more intangible.
"I should send word sometime in the next few days, then..... Good luck, Neji. Don't hesitate to let me know if you need anything." It's not much, not really, just an almost formal parting of ways between two family members, with only the expected sentiments and encouragements being given. Still, the offer is genuine--if Neji needs anything, then he'll be there as quickly as possible, ready to provide anything it's in his power to get. He may not be able to give Neji the world, but Hizashi had already long since given him his world, to take from at his leisure; in the end, that would have to be enough.