CHAPTER 10
To Need and To Love
Absence diminishes small loves and increases great ones, as the wind blows out the candle and fans the bonfire. ~François Duc de La Rochefoucauld
"Damn it! Damn it! DAMN IT!" Sasuke cursed, cursing at the top of his lungs as the hard cold rain drenched his hastily pulled string pants and unbuttoned silken shirt. His dark hair clings to his face, knuckles turned white as he gripped tight on his rein and eyes glowing red as surge of different emotions filled him.
"Your Majesty," Shikamaru softly called, hoping that even against the heavy downpour the emperor could hear him. "It is wise to return and dry yourself up before you get sick."
"I have no intention to return, unless Naruto's with me." Sasuke answered in bitter voice, his sharingan still active, swirling furiously as he stares unblinkingly at the spot where his best friend vanished.
"As impudent as this may sound, but Sasuke," Shikamaru said exasperatedly, annoyance laces on his voice, "I know you're smarter than that. You can't find Naruto unless he wanted to be found."
"Silence!" The emperor growled, turning his glare to his imperial tactician. "Never again do I want to hear you telling me what I can and cannot do, Shikamaru."
Shikamaru rubs his wet face with his palm and sigh. He really hates to argue; it's too troublesome for him, especially when it comes to a stubborn Emperor who never listens to anyone when upset. He guessed that having a lay back personality had its edged after all, else he would've argued back to the said dark haired ruler pointing out whose fault the whole predicament anyway.
The wind howled and the darkened clouds moved swiftly on the horizon as silence reigned once again between the reflecting elementals. Trees swayed, bending their long arms and bodies alongside the wind as the pitiful leaves holds on for their dear lives.
"You are in no position to argue Uchiha, when we all know who's to blame with this mess," Gaara responded after a while, his usual impassive face was dark and his voice derisive.
"I dare you to repeat that insolence once again Lord Sabaku," Sasuke growled, one of his hands already clenching the hilt of his sword.
The auburn haired lord knight smirk, his eyes slitting as he glared back to his supposed to be superior, "There's no one to blame with this but you."
Shikamaru knew that that taunt was enough for Sasuke to lose the little patience he had at the moment. He had no idea if he should just watch them kill each other or try to do something heroic and go in between the clashing titans. It was really too troublesome and too idiotic to try to pacify the two, and knowing that he can't use his shadow manipulation technique and would only result to his untimely death. He's far too young to die and was still hoping he could watch the beautiful summer clouds a couple of weeks from then.
The young tactician also knew that on the brawl between the two, the heir of the Sand Kingdom was at disadvantage seeing it was raining, thus using the sand would be next to impossible. But then again as long they keep their battle on physical level, Shikamaru deduced that it would be a stalemate at the end.
Shikamaru sigh once more, wiping the water from his face while trying to follow the swift movement of the two fighters against the blurry rain. The clash of the swords echoed loudly even against the downpour, the ground thundered with every blocked blow coming from each other. Saying that he hadn't seen this coming was lie, for he knew from the beginning how both had detested each other and was only tolerating each other's presence because of Naruto.
He could have just watched and let them exchanged strikes until both of them gave up from exhaustion, but when he felt Sasuke's force increasing Shikamaru knew he needs to do something else the moment Gaara died, they would have to face the Sand and its allies into a war. But whatever move he might possibly do would be a risk to his life; on the other hand it was his duty to protect Konoha, and protecting Konoha means avoiding any possible hostilities from a strong militia kingdom like the Sand.
Coming down from his horse, Shikamaru unsheathed his own blade gripping its hilt tightly, his eyes slanted a little as he analyzed when he can intrude without harming himself too much. When he saw an opening, Shikamaru budged from his position but readily jump way back to safety when someone unleashed a powerful attack in between the two combatants. The ground shook and a large crater was formed, a hissy cloud of smoke slowly evaporated revealing the identity of the assailant.
Long wash out blonde hair sticks wetly on Temujin's neck and back, his hand unclenched as he looks up from two glaring fighters. He promptly kneeled one of his legs and bow his head down, his right arms folding on his chest as he salute Sasuke.
"Forgive me Your Majesty for interrupting, but I could not bear to stand and watch while the two most important people in Lord Naruto's life are trying to kill each other," Temujin said, eyes trailing on the muddy earth.
"How could you still bow down to a man who betrays your master Temujin?" Gaara called voice still bitter with hatred.
Temujin gradually stand and turn around, looking up, he face Gaara's enraged expression. "True as it may be Lord Gaara, but I will stay and protect His Majesty's life. Our loyalty to Naruto extends to Emperor Sasuke, and until Naruto stated otherwise I would continuously do so."
Gaara snorted, "And if Naruto dies on your emperor's blade, and could no longer bid you to end your service to him, what would you do then?"
Temujin's luminous green eyes flash darkly, "That is an entirely different matter Gaara. I will kill anyone who would dare hurt Naruto physically."
"How dare you to say I would hurt Naruto of all people Sabaku!" Sasuke growled.
"You already did." Gaara said, deadpan of the emperor's outburst.
Sasuke gritted his teeth; eyes bleed red as his fury against himself channeled directly to an arrogant lord knight standing a couple of distance in front of him. He was fully aware it was his fault but to rub it daringly to his face was something he could not tolerate, considering that person was someone who he cared so little for.
"That's enough Lord Gaara," Temujin called out. Though his voice was firm and his face blank, there was an underlying plea on its tone. "It is best to bring this news to His Highness Kyuubi; he might have an idea as to where Lord Naruto can be found."
Silence enfolds upon the four elemental leaving the prittle prattle of the slowly diminishing rain from the background.
Gaara stared long and hard at the young spy, contemplating momentarily if he should listen, but at the end he sheathed back his sword, grudgingly turns away and mounted his horse, riding away the early morning mist towards his destination.
The remaining elementals linger for a while, deep with their own thoughts until Gaara vanished from their view. It was Shikamaru who made the first move; gently but firmly lead Sasuke back to the camp. Temujin as before, vanishes like a wind from behind them.
-Then, Now and Forever 10-
"His Highness I assumed, escaped?" It was Kakashi's first question upon their arrival at the emperor's tent. The advisor's usual calm and smiling face was grim, and one of his visible eyes was serious.
"I'm afraid he did Lord Kakashi. And we all know that His Highness Naruto can remain hidden as long as he likes until he decided to show himself." Shikamaru answered dully while enjoying the warmth that the tent provided. His entire garment was soaked, dripping quietly on the immaculate carpet covering the earthen ground.
Sasuke quietly slipped behind the changing fold, face masked with indignation, eyes glaring to no one. Just a few minutes later a hiss of sound was heard then a cloud of smoke was seen evaporating behind it. When he emerged out, fully dry and cladded with new fresh clothes, a pair of eyes and a half stares on him. One with its usual nonchalant look, the other reprimanding and disappointed.
"Shikamaru, will you leave me and His Majesty alone? It would be a good idea if you could control the gossip into spreading further and cause more unnecessary damage as it has already." Kakashi said, his eyes momentarily move from the young tactician then back to the emperors' sullen form.
"As you wish," Shikamaru nods, gave a slight bow then he briskly leave the tent, trying not to get caught into a foreboding stormy argument between the Emperor's former tutor and His Majesty himself.
-Then, Now and Forever 10 -
To say that the atmosphere inside the Emperor's makeshift tent was thick was a huge understatement. To feel the deep displeasure emitting out from the usual smiling advisor, one of the few people Sasuke respects and listens to manage to perturb the usual undaunted youngest Uchiha. Kakashi's uncovered eyes stared at him blankly for the longest of time, that Sasuke felt as though he was being scrutinized like a common thief.
"Don't look at me as though I committed a heinous crime Kakashi," Sasuke managed to breath out and he was glad that his voice sounds calm and authoritive still.
"Do I appear to be condoning of what you just did Sasuke? I'm afraid that even if I do, I have no right for you alone as the emperor could say whether what transpire is right or wrong. And if you find it faultless, then there's no reason for you to assume that I'm looking at you like a petty criminal your saying," Kakashi replied, sarcasm quiet evident on his voice. Kakashi's face was calm, but his tone has a tinge of controlled resentment behind it.
"Right," Sasuke answered bitterly, "Would you do me a favor and tell me what's on your mind when you requested Shikamaru to leave us? I assume you have something to tell, and it would be best if you could speak it out already so I could have my privacy before we leave."
Kakashi frowned a little; his intelligent eyes swept the room before he sat more comfortably on a chair and settled a dead weight stare back to Sasuke.
"If you're wondering where Lady Haruno is, I sent her over with Neji to assist Ino into healing the wounded people at the small village situated near the area. Neji's report was a bit unclear since they left in hurry when he remembered the supposed to be discussion that should take place before Naruto discover this little… well, should I say… expected infidelity?" Kakashi started, eyes moving about the emperors' face.
A low growl was heard from Sasuke, but he did not answer back otherwise.
"You do know what this entails Sasuke I assume. You're too intelligent not to know the consequences of your action." Kakashi continues, "Is it worth it? Do you have any idea what the Empire will suffer with what you did? You should know by now that an Emperor always prioritizes the safety of his land before anything else, and that includes eating your prejudicial thoughts and marrying the son of your family's most powerful ally."
"He knew it." Sasuke merely answer.
"Who knew what?"
"Naruto already knew that this will take place Kakashi, stop lecturing me already!" Sasuke, his voice thundered out, though his guise was still perfectly smooth. "I already talked to him regarding this not too long ago, of what I felt, of what may happen. He should've expected it, he's just being childish. He knows I wanted a family, a woman, an heir."
"Because he loves you." Kakashi quickly answered softly, his eyes soften a little as he sighs. "And as much as he understands what you want he could never stop feeling betrayed Sasuke, we might be exceptional but we're still human and to witness you bedding someone on a place he thought he could call his, is more devastating than the knowledge that you're having an affair outside you're supposedly engagement."
Sasuke shifted his gaze away from his mentor and settled it at one of the tents corner, his fingers laces over one another as he rested his chin on top of it. "It's not like I'm not going to marry him and that fact is not going to change with or without Sakura." He murmured.
Kakashi pinched the bridge of his nose as he leans back more comfortably on his chair. "You can't have both of them."
Sasuke look back at his advisor and raise his dark brows in question.
"Technically, yes." Kakashi replied, "But here…" he leaned towards the younger man and tap Sasuke on his chest, "… you can only have one."
"Sakura's the one I desire, but Naruto's the one I need – "
"The Empire needed." Kakashi corrected immediately, nodding his head in understanding. "How are you planning to settle this now, if may I ask? I believed you have an idea of what your brother will do when you met him, not to mention Kyuubi's rage at this point. Konoha might experience a massive war, one we may or might not win, and if we do, would only be the start of the Uchiha's downfall. I could not decipher that a certain lowly baroness could instigate a commotion like this, something I'm sure your family would never approve of."
"Am I not making myself clear? The war you're foreseeing would never take place for I'll make sure to marry Naruto before the year ends as plan."
"And how about the baroness, what are your plans for her? To be your First Royal Mistress? Is she aware of this intention? What was with you saying that she's the one you desire yet you let her merely become one of your concubine?"
Sasuke frown, "She might be smart, but she'll never fit to be an Empress. Everyone, everything… will eat her alive. Aside from the fact that the Aristocratic Houses would object such union."
"Should I assume you're giving her the best position? That while you're giving her power and none of responsibility, Naruto would be the one facing half of the Empires problem as the consort. How pitiful His Highness will become then, while the least he could enjoy is to have your affection for all the burden he would take for being married to you, the said relief would be put to none since you have Lady Haruno to take it all, as you've said you're going to make a family with her. How cruel of you Sasuke, even a slave doesn't deserve that."
Sasuke grounded his teeth, his jaw lacks as he glared daggers to his mocking teacher, "I would never… Hell Kakashi! Naruto's my best friend, the one who knew things about me that none of you, even my own parents knew about; I care for him enough that I'll willingly sacrifice my own life for that idiot!"
Kakashi just smile, his eyes arch but definitely he was not happy with their little conversation. He did his best to enlighten his young Emperor with things that might come to pass, but at the end it seems Sasuke was still subconsciously petrified if he acknowledges that special bond he had with his betrothed, a bond Kakashi knew was made of unfathomable ardor, but unfortunately concealed with deleterious lies.
Kakashi straighten up from his seat and bowed politely, "As my position permits me, I would advise that you think this matter very carefully; who of these two is the one you need the most because you love them or the one you love the most because you need them, it would help you decide in the near future once you identify whom of Lady Haruno and His Highness fits those descriptions. I'll now take my leave Your Majesty." With that he turns around, his cloak flies behind him as he strides toward the tent opening to leave.
-Then, Now and Forever 10 -
The ride back home was quiet and stiff, if the soldiers and the rest of the people accompanying the noble entourage have something to say about the Royal Affair, they kept it on themselves. The way back home was long and dragging, and instead of the usual festive atmosphere that always accompanied the returning expedition, it was dead and foreboding, and if the lead could dawdled the trip longer he would, but alas as much as Kakashi would like to keep the deadly confrontation back at the palace longer, he could not. The same way he was not able to stop the young Inuzuka heir from lashing out from their emperor upon hearing the news.
It was an unexpected assault, and Sasuke probably would still be nursing a bruise jaw if Sakura was not there to heal it immediately. Kiba left the camp ahead of them after he was firmly heaved away with non-so gentle a warning from Kakashi. Sasuke could have had Kiba beheaded at that time from the act alone but due to the current circumstances decided against it. The assault took place after they fetched Ino, Sakura and Neji at the village where they temporarily let a dozen of the Elite Knight took charge until they decide what needs to be done on the matter.
The blonde healer appeared uninformed of the incident as she was completely taken aback from Kiba's outrage. It was probably due to exhaustion that she took no notice of her cousin's missing presence. She ended up sleeping the whole time they travelled back to Konoha with Sakura by her side. Kakashi wondered though what would the usual outspoken blonde lady do to her new found friend when she learns the news.
When they saw the great towers of Uchiha castle at distance, Kakashi took notice of Sasuke's hardened grip on his reign. The Emperor might be exceptional to keep his face unperturbed, but Sasuke could never hide it from him completely. He knew the emperor since he was in a swaddle and Kakashi was most certain that the young Emperor, try as he might be to be courageous, was keyed up into convening with his brother ire assuming that the old emperor and the empress was not in attendance once they have arrive.
"We'll be entering Konoha before the sun sets Your Majesty," Kakashi informs Sasuke as he rides on the emperor's side.
"Hm."
"Are you not ecstatic to return home?" He added with a slight jest.
"Of course. I've been expecting such deliberation would happen sooner or later. I want it to be done and over with." Sasuke answered him confidently, proud as ever as expected from him.
"Good then. Because if you say otherwise, then I'll assume you made a decision unfitted for your position." Kakashi replied back solemnly. "Let's hurry then, before dusk falls."
-Then, Now and Forever 10-
Hundreds of healers on white surcoats was scattered inside the Castle's ground upon their entrance to the palace ground. All of them appear to be preparing for a long weary travel, packing wagons and horses with foods and tents and whatnots. They all halt upon Sasuke's appearance and made small curtsy before returning back to their work. It was almost twilight, and hundreds of light balls now illuminates around the castle wall.
It was immediately after the horse had been taken and Lady Yamanaka and Haruno emerged out from the carriage that a hazy yellow and white flash before them. A loud smack echoed throughout the silent ground, with handful of servants and numerous soldiers gawking at the scene before them.
Sprawling before the ground was the lovely baroness Haruno, cheeks burning from the hard slap she receives, summery eyes trailing on the ground.
"Sakura!" Ino exclaimed, quickly stopping at the floor as she wraps one of her arms around the fallen lady. Her wash out blue eyes stared up to her fuming grandmother whose regal feature was hard and her golden eyes blazing.
"Your Grace, what has Lady Sakura done to earn this humiliation?" Ino softly plead, amidst her weariness she could not let such mortification befall her camaraderie who had work uncomplaining with her a couple of fortnights ago, at least not without valid reason from her grandmother. Not that she will contest her either with whatever decision or explanation she will give but the least she could do was to let everyone know that there's a reasonable explanation to what had just took place.
Lady Tsunade, the High Priestess of Restoration stood unashamed of what she did. Her long blonde hair loosely tied behind her back and she was cladded with magnificent white and golden robe fitted for her position. Her eyes were smoldering and her mouth was set into frown. Instead of answering her granddaughter, she set her gaze at the girl sitting on the ground, silky salmon colored hair falls gloriously around her, hands clenched, grasping the dirt on the earthen floor. At her peripheral she could see Kakashi holding the Emperor firmly by his shoulder and whispering something into his ear and around them the whole inhabitant of the castle were watching them, like an expectator they were. Her faithful student Amaru was standing by her side, face blank and hands folded softly on her lap.
"To say that you've been my student greatly ashamed me," She started, her voice strong and clear. "For someone who wishes to purify and clean, you surely are not Lady Sakura. It is not I as Naruto's grandmother speaking of ache I feel for my beloved grandson, but as the Head of the entire elemental healers. We as healers are to live by virtue and respect, and what you just did breaks the sole rule of being such. It is then decided after convening with the Great Spirit, that you Lady Sakura from the House of Haruno no longer will become one of us. As such, that to whoever decides to teach you further than what I did will be forever strip of their ability to use their element and would no longer be aided by the spirits to heal."
"Grandmother, you can't – "cried Ino.
"Hush my child," Tsunade interrupted, "I just did and the rest of the spirit had agreed. It is not something I decided merely of personal affection from your cousin but it is as wanted by the whole."
"I – I don't understand."
"It would be better if I clarify everything to you my lady once you've taken your rest and your mind is calm enough to understand the verdict given to Lady Haruno," Amaru responded, gently pulling the upset woman up to her feet.
Ino nodded softly, eyes still wandering over Sakura's slack form. She might not understand what had taken place, but as the one who would take place her grandmother's position in the future, she must not oppose to whatever it was decided by the whole.
"It is injustice to punish the rest of Sakura's existence for something she alone did not commit." Sasuke called out, and as much as he was restrained from his position, the displeasure on his visage was clearly showing of.
Tsunade shifted back and return the disapproving gaze of the emperor, lifting her head up she addresses him, "That slap should had been yours Your Majesty if you've been any lesser than you are now. It was a mere thing I could show my displeasure to you, but since you're the Emperor, she had to endure it. And that chastisement is not something I elected alone, and even you as the emperor are not above me as the Head Priestess of Elemental Restoration when it comes to reprimanding one of our own, those that had been bless by the power of Yggdrasil, what we did and our decision does not conform to you or anyone's desire. And injustice? Ha! Is there justice to what you just did to my poor grandson? Never talk justice to me young man, never again."
Clenching his fist, Sasuke draw his gaze away from the respected elder. As much as he hated the penance given to Sakura, even he cannot do anything about it.
"And as of this," Tsunade added, moving her head around the castle's open court, "we are withdrawing our residence within the palace wall. We are travelling back to our great temple and would not aide any of you from the war that might or might not take place on the future – "
"You're Holiness, please reconsider this abrupt decision. The empire needs – " Kakashi softly implores.
"No, I don't care what your Empire needs Kakashi. You have spoiled your student too much resulting to this unneeded chaos and heartache. "Tsunade answered grudgingly. She slowly leered when she added, "I have already decided. It might be a childish action, a selfish one perhaps. But this is my form of rallying against the Empire for losing my dear brat. Unless he returns and beseech my help, we would never aide the Empire again into any war or exploration you might come up with on the future."
"Damn it." Sasuke curses beneath his breath; this was something he had missed to account for. He was expecting a very rough discussion sooner or later the moment his affair has been found or the time he opened it up, but not this. The withdrawal of the healers will weaken them; not only from the warfare but the strength within the empire will crumble. His people would feel apprehensive, doubtful of their protection.
Tsunade after inspecting the Emperors' guise turned around. She moved her right arm around her, the long flowing sleeve of her gown glided as she shifted her bearing. "Come inside Your Majesty, an emergency assembly has been called out. Everyone was waiting for your return; I believe they are much too eager to start the discourse of this problem already. And of course, the young baroness presence is demanded to grace them as well."
-Then, Now and Forever 10-
A deadly march - that was what Shikamaru was feeling as they strode toward the gathering room. He felt as though he was marching towards his death, much like of those people going for a guillotine and to think he was not the one who's going to face the room full of powerful upset Aristocrat and their representative, he almost sympathize Sasuke - almost. He thanked The Great Maker for the postponement of his blessing to be the Head of their family merely one month ago. At least he was relieved not to attend the troublesome discussion and let his father deal with it himself.
When the golden handle of the two door assembly room was opened, Shikamaru silently turned around to leave. Just after turning the corner, he met Neji, hastily running towards him.
"You're joining?" He asked curiously.
The tall handsome Hyuga slowed down and nodded.
"Lady Hinata I assumed could not make it?" He intelligently deducts.
"Aye, it would take two more days before her arrival. I was sent for her stead instead. I will just relay everything once she arrived. Lord Hiashi trusted her with any decision she would make." Neji replied calmly.
Shikamaru 'hmm' his answer knowing Neji needs to get use into such wearisome ordeal. Favored by the heiress of the Hyuga House would make Neji not only a very influential noble in the future but a candidate of becoming the head council for the House, thus, important decisions would befall his shoulder for the sake of country and the rest of the empire. The ethereal Lady Hinata was too soft hearted that she needed a strong minded man like Neji who understand the works of their powerful House, lest she marries a man who cares not of the welfare of the Hyuuga House in the end. And though Neji came from the lesser House of the Hyuga's, a remote blooded relative of main, he had proved himself to be worthy of the position for acquiring the formidable Byakugan that only graces those pure blooded Hyuuga people and successfully passed all the tribulation given to him by Hinata's father to be the strength behind Lady Hinata's gentle leadership.
"You're looking forward into seeing Lady Hinata I assume? It has been months since you've last visited your home." He taunts the young lord softly, knowing that the young Hyuuga Lord has a somewhat forbidden ardor for his lovely relative. Unfortunately for him, Hinata had been promised already to a man who could rival his visage, outrank him in status, and protect her as much as well as he could.
"Hn," was the only remark Neji made as a very subtle blush appears on his pale cheeks.
"May The Great Maker help all of you to resolve the matter properly without a need to shed for blood." Shikamaru followed sincerely. "Go on, I don't want to hold you up any longer. Sasuke might need your help to rebut all the accusation against him."
"His Majesty knows how to handle his battle, especially after he made such a mess." Neji replied disapprovingly, and then nods to him before leaving.
-Then, Now and Forever 10-
"Are you ready to become an Empress, Lady Haruno?" Itachi inquired his gaze blank, face indifferent and almost bored.
"Enough Itachi!" Sasuke growled at the other side of the table, slamming the table on the process, the Aristocratic Council sitting on both of his side was sensible enough to quietly keep their thoughts until they were asked of. "There's no reason for you to ask her when I'm the one who should decide who I want to stand beside me the rest of my life while ruling the Empire!"
Itachi merely stare at his brother with one brows arching up, "I'm afraid you already have, after bedding the baroness on the royal bed, noting it's outside of wedlock, not even close to being engaged..."
"Sakura's not to be an Empress! She could not…" Sasuke replied, sitting once again to his chair, meeting all those pair of eyes that gaze back at him. "…and none of them would vote otherwise."
"And if they do?" Itachi insisted.
"They won't." The emperor spats assuredly. "Sakura is not fit to be an Empress, I won't make her one and no one could change my mind." He added, eyeing Sakura's confused and surprised expression.
"Little brother, have you heard yourself?" Itachi said sarcastically. "Your claim of ardor and desire to this young beautiful lady and yet you are not ready to make her your wife."
Sasuke continuously stared at the young woman whose green eyes were clouded with hurt but still filled with understanding and of love. He wanted her to understand even just by mere look that he do cares for her deeply, but both of them knew that she could not handle being the role of an empress. It's not that he did not trust her, but Naruto had been taught since they were kids how to become his other half, the one who would rule the empire by his side and that the sole noble everyone respected, and that alone Sasuke knew why none of the other Aristocratic House demanded for their daughter or son to be his lifetime companion. For them they fit together, politically speaking for that matter.
Sakura, smart and strong as she maybe, did not command respect. And though he had confidence with her benign heart, he was not sure of her family's desire. Sasuke would not forsake everything for Sakura, he was not a fool and he understands perfectly what Kakashi told him about being an Emperor and giving all of himself to the Empire.
"She is to be my First Royal Mistress, and with that comes all the power and respect expected from that position. But I will limit said influence. Her position would only extend much to her First Family and not beyond." Sasuke said.
"I'm sure you aware that once you pick a First one, it is customary to have another?" One of the Aristocratic council asks.
"Yes."
"It would be voted it then that at least one from each of our family would belong to your line of concubine."
Sasuke gently rub his temple and nodded, "But I desire no one to stand by my side other than Naruto," Sasuke calmly explain.
"That is if my brother still wishes to be with you." Kyuubi interjected. As expected from the older Namikaze, he appears unruffled with all the information he heeds, though his clenched fist speak otherwise.
"He will be." Sasuke confidently reply.
"Pray that he would, else you'll be facing the greatest battle the entire empire would experience." The gorgeous fiery man responded stonily, his jaw were clenched, once golden eyes now red in fury.
"There's no need to decide drastically Kyuubi," Itachi called out. He might be terribly disappointed with his brother, but he could not leave Sasuke alone with all the imprudence of a young elemental that he was.
"This is not a drastic decision Itachi, and I knew you are aware of it. There are Kingdoms who wanted their freedom for a long time, to strike the Empire if they could, but due to the oath of loyalty they've given to our family, they continued to adhere with the Empires rule. News of betrayal by an Uchiha to one of us would fuel their rage and there was no reason for us to deny them anymore. We'll remain as loyal to the Empire for a month, but if within that, Naruto hasn't return from wherever he was… I will personally lead an attack against this land and the rest of your allies, and I suggest you should be preparing for it." Kyuubi explain calmly, leaning his chin over his lace finger, eyes watching everyone on the table.
"I stand by Lord Kyuubi's decision as the Head of the Sand Kingdom," Gaara add in.
"I second that," a voice from behind answered where Temujin was found to be standing serenely on the room.
Kyuubi's eyes settled on Hyuga's pale one. Neji sigh and nodded, the Hyuga's were and will always be faithful to Minato Namikaze. "As I believe would be the decision of our House, I will support His Highness."
There were another few agreement including that of the Hunter family, the Inuzuka's, some who rejected the idea like the equally powerful allay of the Uchiha's, the Akatsuki, the others who remained neutral and would not join any side as the Nara's, but would surely be forced to choose when the forewarned war came.
"I assure you Kyuubi that there is no reason for such threat," Itachi voices out, "If worst come into worst, Sasuke would be the least of your worry. I'm aware that father would rather strip of Sasuke his title than to go war against your family. The Empire holds more life than my little brother's stupidity, and as much as I hate it, I would take the crown that is rightfully mine to settle this peacefully."
Kyuubi stands from his seat and snorted, "My brother is not a toy to play with that you can pass to whoever you please Itachi. You as an Emperor do not guarantee that Naruto would favor you to be his other half. The first forced engagement with your brother is enough, I would not tolerate it the second time. Naruto deserves to choose someone he desire, my brother deserves happiness."
Itachi sigh, leans back on his seat and gave a quick glare to his brother. "I suppose you are correct."
"I'm going to take my leave, it would be best that you ask The Great Maker to help us from our search. It would be for our benefit as much as yours." With that the older prince of the Namikazes gracefully left the room followed by his ally without even giving a curtsy to their supposedly Emperor.
When the door closes with a bang, the remaining occupant of the room gazed at each other, trying to analyze the situation on their own. Again, it was the older Uchiha who broke the winded atmosphere that clouded over them.
"It would be best if we are to announce Sakura's position soon. It would calm the citizen knowing that the baroness is merely going to be your concubine Sasuke and that you're still engaged with Naruto. It would stop any civil war that might take place. We could not afford to be distracted as of the moment, what's with this looming threat Kyuubi left." Itachi said.
Sasuke heave a deep breath, "A week or so will be needed, and seeing as the preparation for such is hard especially now that Lady Tsunade left the palace leaving the household in chaos. I would seek Lady Hinata's help upon her arrival and that of Lady Ino if she would lend a hand."
"Is Lady Ino still around?" Itachi inquire.
"Yes. She and Amaru will stay until Naruto returns, as commanded by Her Holiness." The Head of the Nara house answered. "She still cares for the Empire even though she's upset, thus reliable healers needs to be left inside the castle."
Itachi nodded. He carefully watched the rest of the people standing by the Uchiha's side, waiting for any further instruction. "Let's close this for now. I'll send a message if we are going to discuss any development after the ball."
"Aye, Your Excellency!"
-Then, Now and Forever 10-
She was sitting limply on her bed, dress on a satin pink nightgown, her soft hands folded on her lap. Sakura's long pale auburn hair cascaded behind her back, some curling and framing her small face. A sigh escape her full lips and she gingerly swipe the hair away from her cheeks. It was a dreadful day. From the camp up until the assembly that took place earlier. Even though her body was tired from the long journey, she could not sleep at all.
She gingerly touches her cheek where Lady Tsunade had smacked her. It was still tingling even though she tried her best to heal the bruise.
A frown graces her face once more when she remembered that she could not further her knowledge when it came to her supposedly gift- right. The only consolation she had was keeping her skills, how poor it turns out be. Cutting her off with her elemental sprite would devastate her dearly, and she was glad even for a little that the High Priestess did not withhold her bond to her birth sprite.
She had been thinking if all of what she had been through was worth it. If Sasuke was more than enough to compensate for all of it, and to Sakura's surprised her consciousness seems to approve with her that yes Sasuke was important enough that she could bare it all. She loves the emperor with all her heart, and fight as she may of the wrongness of it all, she could not give Sasuke up. And knowing that Sasuke with all his intelligence had completely forgotten where they were at that time on the camp, proved how much Sasuke loved her the same way. She understood clearly though about Sasuke's attitude of rejection to her being an Empress. She can be, she might try, she could probably become a good one, but she'll never be what Sasuke needed to run the Empire.
She was not raised to become one, and being the First Royal Mistress alone was something she never dreamt of being. It composed of many responsibilities, even though it would not be diplomatic in nature, but still big enough for someone like her who had grew into a lesser noble house. She was aware though from her studying what the First Royal Mistress needed to do, managing the rest of the concubine that would join and will be given duty seen fit by the Empress herself. But knowing that there will be no Empress, it would be otherwise concluded that she'd be the Highest ranking Female of the Palace, save the former Empress herself if she was to return back.
Sakura shook her head, she never been into power or wealth. She wanted some, yes, but she's too easy to please. As long as she didn't need to scrub floors and eat meager meals, she's fine with it. She only wanted a comfortable life, at least to wear fine clothes once in a while, to have a few indulgences and some spare gold to spend with whatever frivolous things she desired. Not this, not any of the wealth the Emperor can offer. But then again, shouldn't she be thankful for the opportunity given. Yes, she never wished it, and yet now that it was to come she should exercise her authority rightfully.
But then if asked, what Sakura truthfully craved inside the palace was Sasuke himself. And if she had him, his love and affection, then there's nothing more she could want.
Sakura was too deep in her thought that she missed the opening of the door and the sound of footsteps approaching her. Only when a warm familiar hand tilted her chin and her emerald eyes was staring into that mystifying beautiful black orbs of the emperor she became aware of her surroundings.
"S-Sasuke," She murmured. Her voice was soft and breathy and filled with longing and love.
Sasuke carefully slid the strand of her soft hair behind her ears and gave her a small smile. A smile that didn't reached his eyes.
Sakura understood though. Yes she did. She could feel all the strain emitting from her beloved, the crisis of what's to come gnawing at the back of his mind. If only she could do something to take it away, to comfort and pacify his thoughts, she would.
"I'm not going to apologize for any of this, because this is meant to happen." Sasuke started, his voice was gently and coaxing but there was an underlying weariness behind it. "This is the most I can offer you Sakura, and you know that. I am sure you knew that there's no one that I wanted to be wedded to than Naruto. He's good for me as I am to him. But you, you are the one who'll make my dream come true. The one I can have my family, the one that I only share my passion with."
Sakura's eyes watered, those were the words she had wanted to hear after all the turmoil she had. The only thing she wanted from Sasuke, neither the throne nor the power behind it. She drops to her knees and bury her head at the emperor's stomach, for Sasuke never once folded his knees for her, and she completely apprehend it. Sasuke was an Emperor and he bows to no one but The Great Maker Himself.
"I know, I know." She mumbles softly.
Sasuke ran his hand over her soft tresses as he continued, his eyes blank as he stared the darkened sky. "I'll take as many concubines as the council wanted, but they will remain as such, pure as they've been presented until the day they die."
He carefully pulled Sakura on her feet and cupped her face giving her a swift kiss on the lips, "Sleep well, and by tomorrow everything will be fine Sakura. I still need to do something about Naruto's absence and until I found him, I could not take a peaceful rest."
"Yes of course. It would be terrible for a war to break if His Highness remains at lost. He needs to be found soon to avoid this conflict, I sure hope Lord Naruto realized what predicament he had put you and the entire Empire as well."
Sasuke's gentle grip on her clenched more firmly, his eyes flashes a little, "Sakura, I don't like hearing that coming from you. What Naruto did is blameless; I would never guilt him with whatever will happen. It's more or my fault than his... and I would take all the responsibility if needed to be."
"I'm sorry, I know you need him – "
"Naruto's my best friend, my sole confidant my whole life. I wanted him to be found not only to stop this looming war, but because I'm worried for his safety as well. If something is to happen to my future consort, I would never forgive myself." Sasuke evenly cut off, pulling himself away from Sakura and quickly walked towards the door.
"You have a good rest Sakura; you need not worry anything anymore." He added before closing the door.
TBC