After Sakura's departure, the Palace had been entirely quiet. It was evident how the Queen was heavily affected by the princess's sudden leaving. It even came to the point wherein she had purposely avoided her husband. She had given him the cold shoulder during the entire day following Sakura's temporary goodbye.
Fugaku only shrugged in return. He and Mikoto had not engaged in a fight for a long time. So long that he could not remember how to tame his wife. The King was very much aware on how much Mikoto cares for Sakura. But he hoped that she would understand his position. It was certainly not easy for the King to making such drastic decisions. And Mikoto not even bothering to look at him for the past few days (already), had started to irritate the said King.
In Fugaku's opinion, his wife had been acting like a spoiled brat. Their sons had noticed the silent treatment also. For God's sake, she is the Queen of Konoha. They were not teenagers anymore.
During dinner, exactly four days after Sakura's departure, did Fugaku only voiced out his concern about the matter. He was asking her an important matter about the charity events for the typhoon victims and yet, she still chose to ignore him.
"How long are you going to ignore me? Mikoto, stop this nonsense." Awkwardly, Itachi and Izumi attempted to ease the tension on the table. Sasuke, who had been silent (more so than usual) for the past few days also, was too surprised that he even questioned himself if indeed he heard his father raised his voice on his mother.
Slowly, Mikoto turned her head into her husband's direction. "Very well, yes, Fugaku, let's have a fight in the presence of our sons. Now, you're asking of my opinion? Let me remind you how you simply decided on sending Sakura away without even mentioning it to me. What do you think of me? Your trophy wife? Does the duty of a Queen sitting next to you and prettifying herself?" Mikoto's voice was still calm, even sweet, but there is a danger behind her fake smile.
Not exactly sure what to do, Itachi tried to excuse himself and Izumi from the dining hall, also giving a warning signal to his younger brother to follow them. "My dear Itachi, it's okay. You will be the next King. You should know how to value your future Queen. And why not take your most considerate Father as an example." Mikoto held up her hand, refusing to let his son and his wife leave.
Fugaku sighed. "I know you are upset. But there is no other choice."
Hearing that, Mikoto raised her eyebrow in disapproval. "Even still, you should have told me beforehand." She paused, trying not to cry angry tears. "Did you know how I feel useless seeing her suffering like that? She does not deserve any of this."
Even before Fugaku could explain himself more, Mikoto had stood up from her seat and exited the dining area.
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With the upcoming summit, it was evident that the stress had taken its toll on the King's body. Itachi had observed that his father was more restless than usual the past few days. Itachi was certain it had also something to do with the fight his father had with the Queen.
Fugaku was analyzing the documents he had to sign for the meeting while the crown prince was seated across from him in the King's office. Itachi offered his help, giving his personal opinions on the matter at hand. At first, Itachi had decided to keep his thoughts to himself, but seeing his father over the edge, he eventually voiced out his concern.
"Father, I am worried about your health. I suggest you take it easy for a while. Especially now that Sasuke will be there to accompany you."
"Itachi, I am the King. I can not rest." Fugaku had only spared his son a tired glance before digging into his work again.
"Have you not talked to Mother yet?" Itachi did not fail to see how his father tensed up a bit at the mention of the Queen.
"Itachi.." Fugaku warned his son.
Itachi held both of his hands in surrender. "I am only saying this because emotional burden can affect someone as twice as much as stress in work. Sasuke will perhaps not say anything, but Father, distracting yourself with too much work-"
"Fine, I'll rest for a bit." Fugaku exhaled loudly, standing up. When the King made a move to leave the room, Itachi had been contemplating whether to remind him to finally reach out to the Queen. He sincerely hoped that the most respected King and Queen would sort things out soon. By taking this well..lovers' quarrel longer, both of them would only suffer more.
In the end, Itachi only watched as his father closed the door, leaving him in his thoughts.
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It was only the night before Sasuke and Fugaku's departure when did the King had the courage to face his wife. For the past week, Fugaku had always made sure to go to bed past midnight so that he would be able to avoid any confrontations. He would also wake up with Mikoto's presence gone in their room.
With him leaving for the summit, Fugaku made sure that he would be able to talk to Mikoto. He could not be certain for how long he and his son would be gone. And not to mention, Itachi was right. His wife being mad at him was definitely affecting him in a negative way. But that did not mean that he would be admitting it to anyone.
Mikoto was already in her sleepwear when he entered their bedroom; she was combing her hair, pretending that she had not seen him. Fugaku slowly sat beside her on the bed, careful enough not to get too close to her. He let out a tired sigh before putting his right hand on his forehead to massage the area.
"We need to talk." He begun. She had stopped combing her hair, indicating for him to continue. "Look, Mikoto. What I am doing is what I think will be best for the royal family. The best for our sons. Prior to my decision, I talked to Sasuke."
"But you did not even consider talking to me." She uttered. Mikoto had turned to face her husband. "Fugaku, I am not just your wife. I am the Queen. What I am mad about is because Sakura's welfare should be my concern. You made me feel like I am powerless, that the duties of a Queen is something that is not of an importance."
"I value your opinions and suggestions. You know that. I did not marry you only for you to be a trophy wife. If I had made you feel like that- I did not in any way mean to do that."
She had taken his words for a moment. And when Fugaku had seen how her features had considerably softened, he knew he was already forgiven.
"I am sorry, too. I maybe overreacted a little bit. I threw a big fuss, didn't I? Our sons may have think that their mother is such a drama queen." She covered her mouth, trying to suppress her laugh to her own joke. Fugaku, in return, only gave her an incredulous look.
When she recovered, she had asked her husband if their son would be fine meeting with the Sunagakure prince. He assured her that he would be there to guide Sasuke all throughout the meeting and that she had nothing to worry about.
"Since we have not yet confirmed the duration of our stay in Sunagakure, and if this is like any other meetings, you would have been my replacement. But for this, I am allowing you to visit Sakura, I was thinking that it would also serve good for Itachi-"
"Are you certain? Can I really?" Her eyes sparkling with excitement.
Seeing her delighted by the news, Fugaku was almost sure she would practically hug him. But then he noticed the sudden change of her mood. She had become silent for a while, a frown made its ways onto her lips. "Should I? It would have been better if Sasuke visits her first."
"In all honesty, I have no idea what is going on between those two. But when I called to ensure everything's going well, Tenten had informed me that Sakura had been in constant contact with Sasuke. I am certain that while Sakura prefers seeing our son, she needs someone who will comfort her. And if you are still worried about their relationship, you can ask Sasuke about it before we leave tomorrow morning."
Mikoto had slightly nodded to herself, thinking about what Fugaku just told her. It must had been hard for Sakura to be away from her family and friends. Sure, Mikoto would always call her but being with her in person is much more different. She then smiled at Fugaku. "Thank you, my husband. I hope everything goes well in your conference."
"I hope so too."
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It had been the second time Sasuke got to visit Sunagakure. He already expected the harsh climate. But nothing prepared him for this kind of heat. An honorary welcome was prepared for him and his father while they were getting off the plane. A group of children and women prepared a dance number, and a band was on the sidelines. And although the body guards were there to hold an umbrella over him, he felt like he was suffocating, considering that the short program only lasted for five minutes top.
King Rasa of Sunagakure was there to welcome him and his father. Behind King Rasa was none other than Gaara and his two other siblings, Prince Kankuro and Princess Temari. And despite the fact that Sasuke wanted nothing more than to corner the crown prince, he was the one who extended his hand first for a handshake. Gaara shook his hand firmly in return. Both princes were void of emotion and yet, certainly, anyone could feel the tension in the air.
Sensing a silent battle, Temari had briefly called out Sasuke, welcoming him to Sunagakure. She smiled nervously, leading him inside the airport.
The Sunagakure's royal family had obviously prepared for this. After the brief welcome, Sasuke was escorted to a magnificent hotel room. Naruto, being the idiot he is, lied on his bed, indicating how soft the cushion is. Sasuke sat down on the bed as well, removing his suit and adjusting his tie.
"Don't you have your own room?" Sasuke grumbled.
"But your room is much better, Your Highness. Unlike you, I have to share it to other body guards. By the way, are you okay? It's been over a week since Milady left for Kumogakure."
Sasuke did not bother to answer the question. And knowing the prince well enough, Naruto had decided to change the topic right away. "Have you seen the newly hired body guard? Seriously, what is that Shikamaru Nara thinking? How could that Rock Lee passed the examinations for a Palace guard?"
"Nara is the Palace's Imperial Officer. Technically, you are under him. You should not say something behind his back, especially in my presence."
Naruto shrugged. "Blah blah… Have you seen how he checked out that chick Princess of Suna? Man, I thought women do not interest him in the slightest, calling it troublesome..and yet-"
Coincidentally, Shikamaru knocked on Sasuke's room twice before opening the door. "Your Highness-"
Naruto immediately sat up from the bed, stood up straight, and raised his right hand for a salute. And only for Shikamaru to sigh in resignation before turning to Sasuke. "Your Highness, His Majesty is waiting for you downstairs for your lunch. The Suna's Royal Officials will be there as well."
Shikamaru casted a lazy glance to the now sweating officer. "I forgot to tell you. Neji Hyuuga talked to me, stating that you had been discreetly courting the Hyuuga heiress. He told me to fire you, asking me if I would tolerate such actions while you were in duty, whereas you are supposedly keeping His Highness' safety priority"
Naruto gulped nervously, seeing Sasuke's reaction, a mixture of disappointment and disbelief. Sasuke had run his hand through his hair as a sign of frustration. "Nara, tell His Majesty I'm coming." He paused, glaring at his bestfriend. "Leave Uzumaki to me. And before you go, let me remind you. Be certain that you and Princess Temari will not get caught."
Shikamaru did not bother to deny nor confirm the Prince's statement. He bowed his head, closing the door. As he walked down the hallway, he sighed uttering another "How troublesome".
Sasuke whipped around to glare at Naruto after Shikamaru closed the door. "Sasuke, I can explain." Naruto sat next to the prince, scratching his head. "I was just being friendly. I swear I'm not courting Hinata! That cousin of hers is too imaginative! That's all."
Sasuke stood up, fixing his tie. "I do not know why I put up with you."
Naruto blinked twice before slinging his arm around the prince. "Now, now. Say, is that chick princess really Shikamaru's girlfriend? Like love love?"
Sasuke made a move to remove Naruto's arm. He quickly put back his suit on and fastened its buttons. "I did not know you like gossips that much. You love your job? You better shut your mouth. I do not want to use my title to save your ass again."
Naruto quietly followed the prince outside the room, being back to a stoic body guard slash the prince's personal assistant.
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With Naruto standing behind Sasuke all the time, he could not help but observe the way Shikamaru behaves in the presence of the only Princess of Suna. Naruto had no idea if their relationship would even lead to something. But there was this weird eye contact between the two of them that Naruto could swear, the sexual tension was real.
Apparently, the Suna's royal family was very much aware about the relationship of the princess to Shikamaru. It had only begun a few years back when Shikamaru got promoted and thus, being assigned with the bilateral relations with Suna. Moreover, the royal siblings of Suna studying in Konoha had seemingly added fuel to the fire.
Obviously, King Rasa and Temari's brothers were opposed of the relationship. But then again, the princess was stubborn. It even came to point wherein King Rasa gave his suggestion to King Fugaku to let his youngest son marry his only daughter in a very private meeting in which Shikamaru and Sasuke was present as well.
It had been a big surprise for King Fugaku to hear such thing from the Suna's most respected leader. He saw the angry expression of the Sunagakure's princess; she had even stood up from her seat, ready to walk out of the room. But Shikamaru's voice held her up. "Temari..calm down."
King Rasa snorted. "You dare to call her Temari? Just Temari? Even I do not call her that!" He raised his voice, throwing dagger looks to the young man.
"Dad! Please." Temari pleaded.
"No. King Fugaku, think of this as a lifelong commitment between our nations." He turned to the King, asking for an approval.
Sasuke had been confused at first, not knowing what was going on. Until he saw the somewhat resigned expression of their genius official.
"It was honestly a tempting suggestion. For centuries, marriage between two countries yielded good relationships. More so, it will serve permanence to our allegiance. However, my son's fate had long been decided." Fugaku's voice ruled over. "I think that Princess Temari's relationship with my trusted official should be the matter of our discussion this afternoon. As a King myself, I only want the best for my heirs. And I assure you, Shikamaru came from a highly-respected family."
King Rasa became silent for a while. "I respect your opinion regarding these. Having said that, I do not want this to affect our alliance in any way. And although you, the King, had high regards towards that young man, I hope you do not take this in a wrong way, but I only want nothing but the best for my daughter."
But Naruto did not know any of that, he thought that Shikamaru was only interested in simply having a good time with the Princess.
The Kirigakure's King had also attended the conference, while Kumogakure sent their crown prince. The vice president for external affairs had been the one to represent Iwagakure. It had been a boring three-hour negotiation in Naruto's opinion. They talked mostly of importing and exporting goods, military support, and other political matters.
After that, a high-class dinner was served for all the royalties. And by the time Naruto got to his room, he was beyond exhausted. First, a three-hour flight to Suna. And another five hours of standing by Sasuke's side. He only hoped things would be better tomorrow.
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Meanwhile, Sakura had been busy with her charity works in Kumogakure. She had also enrolled in summer classes to learn the country's native language. She was happy setting up free medical check-ups for the people in the provinces. She even went to the famous tourist spots of the country, meeting locals.
And more often than not, people would recognize her. Her body guards, however, were always quick to react, leading her to the car when people got too close to her. At the night, before she would sleep, she never failed to call Sasuke to tell him how her day went. And even if, he would only reply occasionally, Sakura was already happy to hear his voice.
She did not notice that she had already been there for almost two weeks, with only Tenten accompanying her to her penthouse. Even her body guards do not sleep inside the house, making her feel more isolated.
She purposely avoided the tv, newspapers, anything that has something to do with the media. It had greatly affected her and she knew that any negative comment about her would only bring her spirit down.
During one of her free medical check-up camps, she was busy giving away free medicines and vitamins to young children. Too busy that she had not even see Queen Mikoto taking pictures of her with the kids. She had only noticed her when one of the volunteer doctors had told her about it.
And before Sakura knew it, she was running towards the Queen, hugging her and sobbing onto her shoulder. Mikoto had also put her arms around the princess, stroking her shoulder-length hair in the process. "How are you, my dear? Are you eating right on time?" Sakura smiled through her tears saying how she missed the Queen.
Mikoto had briefly explained that the King and Sasuke was on a week-long conference with the leaders of the Five Great Nations. And that she had nothing to worry about Sasuke, that he's well and Naruto was there to check up on him all the time. "Did he say anything?" Sakura shyly asked, but much to her disappointment, the Queen only shook her head slightly.
Seeing the pout on her face, Mikoto tried to cheer her up, saying that she would stay with her until the weekend. And indeed, the princess's lips curved up for a smile.
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It was hard to set an appointment for the private meeting King Fugaku had assigned to Shikamaru. Especially that he was not the most favorite person of the Sunagakure's King. They had only been given an hour before a meeting with other officials start again.
It was King Rasa who spoke first. "I know what is this about. And as a King, I rarely apologize. I want you to know that I take the full responsibility behind Gaara's actions. It is no use to defend him. Prince Sasuke here may had already told you what you needed to know." He paused, taking a sip on his coffee. "It is not a secret that I have not been well for almost a year now. And I trust you the most, King of Konoha, our most valued ally. I trust you enough to tell you that I will be passing the throne soon to my son. Before the next month ends precisely. A young lady from one of the noble families in Sunagakure had already been selected to be Gaara's queen. I think that this is enough for all the rumors to die down soon."
It was Gaara's turn to apologize. "Great King of Konoha, I humbly ask for your forgiveness. I do not mean any harm coming to our nations's allegiance. Especially to Princess Sakura."
But Fugaku chose not to respond. Instead, it was Sasuke who spoke to King Rasa. "If I may, Your Majesty, I would like to speak to Prince Gaara in private."
The said King looked into his son in concern, but he nodded and left the room with his servants. Fugaku followed soon after, tapping Sasuke's shoulder. Seeing Gaara's personal servant still standing behind him, Sasuke spoke once again. "I meant only me and Prince Gaara." He looked at the servant with a brown hair and blue eyes. "You too, Naruto." He quickly added.
Before Naruto could protest, Sasuke held up his hand.
At the sound of a click of the door, Sasuke narrowed his eyes at the other prince across from him. His arms crossed. "What you did was something that could jeopardize everything our countries had built for the past decades. To put it simply, you were stupid."
Gaara, on the other hand, remained silent, seating still on his designated chair.
"Sakura offered you nothing but friendship, but in the end, she was the one to suffer all the consequences that resulted from your stupidity."
Gaara rolled his eyes. "You sounded like you truly care for her, and yet she shed tears for you every time. You think I asked for this? Seeing the girl I like suffering from the likes of you."
"If your feelings for Sakura is real, you will leave her alone."
"Why should I, Sasuke? I've had enough of your threats. Are you blind? Have you not seen the tabloids? I must say she's quite a good kisser." Before Gaara knew it, Sasuke had held him by the collar, trapping him in the wall.
"How narrow-minded can you get? For you to disrespect the girl you claim you care so much about just to get under my skin. If I ever hear you talking about Sakura like this ever again, consider our countries' allegiance dissolved." He relinquished his hold on his collar, glowering at him, before leaving the room.
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Sakura had been studying when Sasuke called. It was already past midnight, but she was determined to know more of Kumo's culture. Sakura, knowing he was in an important conference, did not bother calling him for the past days.
"Why are you still up?" The sound of his voice was enough for Sakura to smile.
"I am reading. You did not tell me Her Majesty would come here. She just left couple of hours ago and I miss her already."
"She wanted it to be a surprise. Summit ended a few hours ago, by the way." From his voice, Sakura already knew how tiring it must be.
"How was it? You know what, never mind. So you heading back to Konoha tomorrow morning?" She asked him while still flipping the pages of the book.
"No."
"What? Are you staying there for a little while?" She asked, confused.
"I'm coming to get you."
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A/N: If you guys are following me in my personal tumblr account, you pretty much have an idea how depression is really affecting my well-being. From graduation to adulting. On the other note, I apologize if there had been any grammatical errors and the like, it's past 1 am here, and I just wanted to finish it. Make me happy by leaving a review?
PS: Also planning on changing this story's title, what do you guys think?