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This is not happening.
Uhh…I think it is…
This is so NOT happening!
Sweetie you're repeating yourself now.
How on earth had she managed to forget today was matchmaker day? She could have sworn it was on Friday. What didn't add up? How had this happened? Sakura had an elaborate plan all worked out! It was perfect and fool proof. Her father would be away from the house so he wouldn't be able to see through her illusion. First she would state she was going to train then get injured, rub pig's blood that she would purchase from the butcher tomorrow, and then cast a genjutsu so her mother would insist she stay home instead of going! It was brilliant….so why didn't it work?
Because your mother is an evil genius and probably lied to you about the date. Looks like she pulled a fast one over your disbelieving eyes.
Oh. My. Gosh…her Inner was right. Her mother tricked her. She sighed, I guess I shouldn't be too surprised.
No you shouldn't. Your overly elaborate plan probably would have worked out if you hadn't pulled similar elaborate plans to get out of other important meetings, gatherings, and other such things.
Why couldn't she have stayed fifteen? Then she wouldn't have to deal with this…drama. Sakura hung her head in despair. She knew exactly what meeting the matchmaker entailed. She now had to face her worse nightmare…dressing like a noble woman. Or course that meant a full kimono and powdering of her face and other painful procedures that she really could live without. But of course anything less than overdone and she wouldn't be desirable to any of the noblemen. At least she wasn't from a noble bloodline clan so in hindsight she would be alright. The really stuck up nobles would never look at a civilian woman like her. No, those clans only looked for other women in other clans. And she was perfectly fine with a civilian nobleman to be her husband…if only he didn't get in the way of her training. He would definitely need to know that her training came before being a trophy housewife. Maybe marrying into a clan wouldn't be so bad…that way they at least understood the importance of shinobi training. But…then again…she was a woman and women weren't allowed to train. This was just a no win situation! But she wouldn't feel pity for herself and she wouldn't cry. No, any weakness that she was feeling would be bottled up inside and only to be released in training.
Sighing, she walked to the bathroom and disrobed sluggishly. She sat down on the wooden stool and began to wash away the filth on her body before soaking in the tub. When she finished she grabbed a large fluffy towel and dried off before examining her body in the mirror, a habit she developed recently.
Her arms with perfectly toned, any soft skin a man was expecting in a woman like her would promptly be blown away. She was proud of her muscled arms, it was a sign that she wasn't like other women. Next she examined her taut breasts…they were getting bigger. She growled. Apparently the bindings she always wore weren't hindering their growth. Big breasts were a nuisance and they were definitely a feature that attracted the opposite sex. If there was one thing Sakura could control over her body…it would be giving herself small breasts. With a final growl she dropped the subject…it wouldn't do to get mad over something she couldn't control. She should just be grateful that her breasts were not as big as Tsunade-sama's. Oh yes…she was very grateful. Her eyes continued downward and her fingers softly caressed her defined abdomen. She smirked; this was another feature that any man would never suspect on her. She had a four, almost six pack that could rival some men and she was damn pleased with that fact. But if she had to admit…her most favorite feature on her body was her stunning legs. Yes, she had mile long legs that were just as beautifully toned as the rest of her body. Kami above she loved her legs, they were so deceiving. She just knew that any man's jaw would drop the minute the caught a glimpse of her drop dead sexy legs. She hummed in approval and started to turn in the mirror so she could admire her large but toned duck butt, which came automatically with her great legs, but she suddenly froze. Large, bulbous, white scars marred what would have been perfectly flawless skin on her back. And at the angle she was looking at she could see the smaller scar on her hip…where that bastard dropped his knife to confront her father. While her front always looked good her back was another story. The scars were crisscrossed all around her back in no definable pattern. That sick bastard just wanted to cause her pain. Looking away from the mirror Sakura lifted her hands. Small faint scarring could be seen. Tsunade had insisted on healing her hands for aesthetic reasons, but Sakura wouldn't let her heal her back. No those painful, ugly scars reminded Sakura of who she was and why. They defined her.
She shivered, the air around her suddenly making her cold. Those memories needed to stay suppressed for the moment. She didn't want to worry her mother over her fears when the woman was so excited to play dress up doll on her daughter. With a small roll of her eyes Sakura got up and used a small wind technique to dry her hair. She perfumed her body with the winter blossom oils all the while wishing that their clan was not a silk exports clan. For if they were not, then they wouldn't be noble, and she wouldn't be in this situation. But alas her civilian family was the finest silk distributer in their region…or so she liked to boast on occasion.
She came out of the bathroom in clean bindings with a steel mesh shirt over it and a pair of shorts made from blinding cloth that was sewn together with steel wires and ends to keep everything together easily. Needless to say her design was made to stay on even if someone took a kunai and ripped through any cloth shirt she was wearing. She had created it herself and she was proud of her makeshift armor. She really wanted to test it out against a blade but her father, mother, Hinata, and Tsunade refused to do so. And the servants would rather be caught dead than to attack her. Oh well she was confident that it would hold up.
"Sakura! Are you sure you still want to wear those?" Kiyari asked her daughter taking in the homemade armor. The three women behind her kept silent with blank faces.
"Of course mother…it is for my own safety," Sakura answered solemnly.
"Yes, yes," her mother sighed while straighten her yukata. If there was a subject that the entire house didn't talk about it was the incident. By mutual unspoken consent they never discussed the past, nor any of the subsequent behaviors that had come of it. Sakura's armor was taboo and her mother bowed her head in respect to her daughter's choice, "We do not have much time. Let's get to it then."
Sakura smiled softly knowing her mother was slightly flustered but was trying to find an out.
"Now Sakura, this is Minoka and Haruka," She pointed to two very thin waif-like women, "They will be helping you dress."
She nodded but looked at them apprehensively. Normally Sakura could dress herself but considering this was a very special occasion meant that she was going to be tormented to layers upon layers of expensive silks. Obviously she couldn't do it on her own.
"I will be applying your makeup and Yamai," a short woman with greying but beautifully knotted hair, "Shall be fixing that hair of yours." Sakura sighed heavily. All she wanted to do was die...but this was important to her mother. And in all seriousness this should be important to her but she just couldn't find it in herself to care. She was going to be thrust in the den of prissy women who were all dressed to impress. The only thing that comforted Sakura was the fact Hinata will also be in attendance.
A printed hakama came first and was tied snuggly around her already small waist. Next came the sheer uchigi that was tied tightly around her chest. The ladies were extra vigilant not to get the delicate material snagged on her self-made mesh shirt. Layer one was completed, now she only had to suffer through ten more. Each piece of uchigi that was placed on her body was a denser material making it weigh heavily on her petite body.
Good thing I'm in such great shape or else I wouldn't be able to move, she grumbled to herself.
Relax babe. Just wait until they are finished, you're going to be a knock out.
None of the potential "males" are even going to be there. Honestly it'd be better if I just showed up in a yukata.
Her Inner gasped, Nonsense while I know you hate these things you do look rather beautiful.
Turning her head slightly Sakura caught a glimpse of herself in the full length mirror in the room. The two women were fastening the tenth layer on her and it was a rich gold silk. They also fastened another matching gold hakama before removing the final layer from inside her closet. She honestly couldn't see the appeal. Right she looked as if her body was three times her normal size.
The weight of the heavy wide-sleeved furisode cut off her train of thought. This was definitely going to be a hassle to walk in. The fabric was a soft light pink with multicolored butterflies dotting the whole fabric. Shimmering dark blue and gold flowers made it whole piece perfect. Her obi was an almost yellow green with dark green and silver patterns on it. Alright she could admit that this kimono was rather beautiful…after all she did pick it out herself. The obi was fastened securely in a tight butterfly knot and her dressing was complete.
She turned with help from the women dressing her to look again in the full length mirror. She looked regal in her garb, like a lady in waiting at the Hokage's court. The long sleeves of her furisode barely touched the ground with her arms down. She looked like the epitome of spring…and she wasn't even done.
"Time for your hair Sakura-chan," her mother told her.
Sakura nodded and stepped off the small platform to be seated in a small stool. The hairdresser began brushing her waist length silky pink locks humming contentedly.
"Your hair is so beautiful Sakura-san," she smiled at her warmly, "So soft and fine. Is there anything you want me to do?"
"Uhhh," Sakura looked sheepishly up at her in the mirror, "Not a lot of hair accessories?"
The woman nodded, "I think I have just the style for you then. And since you have a lot of fine hair it will give you a simple yet elegant look. Will that do?"
"Sure," she answered with a small hitch in her voice. Control the nerves, she growled to herself.
With that the woman began her tedious work. Sakura took this time to stare off into space and contemplate all the annoying women she was going to have to dodge before her mother came and sat beside her.
"So Sakura, I know that this whole process isn't something that you like…" she started lightly.
Sakura gave her a "ya think" look, only to be chastised by the hair dresser about moving her head.
Kiyari sighed, "I know…and I just want you to know that even though you hate the thought of being married off, I'm here for you. And I won't let you father make any arrangements on who you marry without my approval. With that said…is there anything you want to tell me so that I can take it into account when offers start coming in from Tsunade."
Sakura sighed…
Tell her.
Tell her what?
You know what. She's being completely sincere about you feelings so don't waste this moment by being an ass.
…You're right…ok.
"Mom…" she started folding her hands repeatedly in her lap, "In all honesty I don't care who I marry. He could be poor or he could be rich and I wouldn't care. But…I just want to marry someone who can respect me. I've trained hard for most of my life and I know you know why. I can't give that up. And I won't stay in a marriage with someone who disrespects who I am. I won't care if I end up shaming myself…I will leave him."
Kiyari nodded seriously but with an understanding smile.
"I just want to be lucky just like you and dad were when you were married," she continued, "I know that I probably won't love the man that I get stuck with and I know…"
"Sakura-chan," her mother placed a comforting hand over her daughter's, "I love you and of course we'll pick someone right for you. Believe it or not your father has been very picky about who we entertain recently. He only allows people in our home who he thinks you might be interested in."
Sakura gave her other another look, this one saying "I hate all men equally."
Kiyari smirked, "I know. And he knows too. But at least interacting with those young men gives us a good taste of what you can handle. And it of course lets us meet his family. Anyway, I hear the Uchiha heir isn't looking for highly bred women."
"MOM!" Sakura yelped eyes going wide, "There's no way in HELL I will marry an Uchiha. Hell no!"
"Please don't move Sakura-san!" the hair lady yelled at the same time as her mother.
"Sakura language!" her mother criticized glaring at her, "Do not use such offensive language today do you hear me?!"
"Yes…"
Her mother gave another small sigh and Sakura thought she spotted another emotion…regret. While marrying an Uchiha would be a very high honor to the family Kiyari knew chances at a marriage proposal were slim. Still she could hope, "Good, now let me finish before you interrupt me. While yes the Uchiha heir would be a long shot for a marriage offer, I was going to suggest maybe we find you a shinobi family. As a high ranking civilian family I'm sure we could negotiate with a shinobi clan if that would satisfy you."
She sat thinking about that option. If she were to marry into a shinobi family they would at least respect her decision to continue her training since they would know the importance of keeping in shape. Whereas she would definitely have a more difficult time convincing a civilian husband of such a thing. Not to mention with her father being a formidable ANBU Captain he knew many of the clans that would likely offer, "I would be ok with that."
Her mother beamed at her, "Alright…anything else you might want us to consider?"
She shrugged unable to think of anything else to say.
"All finished my dear," the hair lady trilled, "What do you think?"
Sakura looked up into the mirror with a blatant look of shock. It was…
Perfect!
Yamai had lived up to her word. It was an elegant array of knots that as simplistic in nature but elegant in their look. Three small braids on each side of her head lined in a soft curve up to a round cup of pink hair on the top-back part of her head. Yamai wrapped a silver ribbon around the entire base of the cup. The rest of her hair was done up in a series of braids that seemed to be spilling out of the top of the hair cup. Then with strategically placed silver jewels and gold flowers the four largest braids were made to look like butterfly wings, surrounded the central cup. Her bangs were swept to the side covering the majority of her slightly larger forehead. Across the top of her head two delicate braids held the smooth surface of her hair before hooking into the rest of the piece. All in all she matched the theme of her kimono perfectly she was looking more and more like the personification of spring.
Kiyari smiled seeing her daughter's dumbfounded expression, "See every once in a while it's ok to actually dress like a woman."
Sakura's shock instantly soured as she stuck her bottom lip out in a pout, "That was low."
"But no less true," she dismissed Yamai, "Now it's time to paint your face."
She groaned, "Nothing too heavy please." She begged.
Kiyari laughed lightly, "Alright, how about a light foundation as a compromise. Since your skin is already a beautiful porcelain. But for your eyes I'm afraid I won't be able to help."
"Fine…" she grumbled then closed her eyes at her mother's instruction.
A soft white powder was brushed onto her face but true to her word Kiyari only applied one layer. Next she opened her stash of colors and pulled out a large round container the color slightly darker than Sakura's hair. Applying the blush slowly to her face Kiyari made sure that the blush was slightly darker next to her ear in order to accentuate her daughter's high cheekbones.
Next came the tweezers and Kiyari had to bite her lip to keep from laughing at her daughter's grimaces and grumbles.
"It's not that bad besides it's been a while since you've maintained them," she admonished with a smile, "It's all your fault."
Sakura didn't say a word and kept her grumblings to herself.
Once Kiyari was satisfied she replaced the tweezers in favor of eye shadow. She definitely wanted to bring out Sakura's emerald eyes so darker colors would be the best. Selecting a soft brown she applied it to the base of her daughter's eyes followed by a dark forest green. The darker color was applied to the corners of her eyes then followed the natural slope of her lid. To add an even more accentuating feature Kiyari had the green flip slightly up at the corners. To finish the look a light silver shimmer was dusted at the inner corners of her eyes and up by her eyebrows. Dark brown eye liner was applied to the upper and lower portions of Sakura's eyes then finally mascara. Using her most coveted tool Kiyari instructed Sakura to blink on her heated eye lash curler. With the mascara already applied her delicate lashes were now frozen upward in a natural curl.
Opening up a small drawer Kiyari withdrew a long brush that looked as if it was typically used for writing calligraphy. Dipping it slowly in the red paint she instructed her daughter to part her lips. Sakura complied and soon her small pouty lips were painted in a sinful red. Kiyari smiled at her accomplishment.
"Open your eyes and tell me what you think."
Sakura complied and for a moment she didn't recognize herself. She was…beautiful.
Wow…maybe we can dress you up more often.
Her eyes were smoky yet seemed to shimmer with…intelligence? Mischievousness? She couldn't quite place the look. Having been more prone to training and caring less about how she looked to others she never suspected she could look like this. Like a Juni-hito princess.
"You're so beautiful my daughter," her mother sniffed suppressing her tears, "I know this isn't something you like doing…but I hope after today…when the situation calls for it, you will let me dress you up so I can show you off as the beautiful, elegant, and intelligent woman you are."
Sakura's gaze left the mirror to look up her mother. She could see how happy this made her and how important this moment was. She was going to meet her matchmaker so that she could find a potential spouse. This was a traditional and a significant cultural custom and one that her mother obviously took great pride in. All the lessons that she stubbornly went through would be for nothing if Sakura didn't suck up her pride for once in her life and give her mother and this practice the respect it deserved.
"I'm sorry mother," Sakura told her solemnly, "I meant you no disrespect. I guess…I guess this whole thing makes me a little nervous."
Kiyari smiled sweetly knowing that her daughter was finally relenting. It pleased her, "I love you my daughter."
"I love you to Okaa-san," Sakura smiled. She only called her mother by the formal name on rare occasions and usually when she wanted to show her deep respect or the true depth of her love.
With another flick of her hand two pure white tabi and a pair of four inch getas were brought over to her. Kiyari easily slipped the tabi over her legs followed by the geta. Sakura eyed them hesitantly the small base was rather intimidating. She definitely knew that she couldn't walk easily without using her chakra.
She smirked to herself, I bet I'll be one of few women who won't be tripping over her feet while wearing these death traps.
Us 1, other over primped women 0.
"Come on Sakura." She helped her daughter up slowly from the stool, "Time to get the full picture."
She stood in front of the full length mirror and examined her full form. She no longer looked like a tough tomboy…she looked like a lady in waiting. It frightened her to some extent, she looked vulnerable and that was a feeling that she severely disliked. But with a small hiss Kigechu poked his head out and Sakura brought her arm up to place a small kiss on his head. His presence was a comforting reminder that while she might look delicate and vulnerable, she was anything but.
"Sakura! That snake of yours can't go!" her mother protested immediately.
"He's coming with me. I never go anywhere without him." Her words held a tone of authority that left no room for compromise.
Her mother only sighed but new better than to start an argument that she was going to lose. With slow measured steps they dropped the subject and proceeded out of the room. Sakura was left standing at the front door. A few minutes later her mother returned followed by her father.
"My daughter," Kyodu smiled proudly at her, "You look radiant."
"Thanks daddy," she smiled sheepishly at him, "I feel a little ridiculous."
"Nonsense, you are a young lady I suppose it's time you start acting and looking like one," he crossed his arms but smirked playfully at her.
Sakura wrinkled her nose at Kyodu making him chuckle then turned to her mother.
"Take the bag dear, it holds charms and prayers from the shrine and a fan if you feel warm," Kiyari pressed a small silver purse into her hand, the string wrapped easily around her wrist.
"Yes mama."
"And remember to keep your mouth shut and do not argue with any girls okay?"
"Okay," Sakura rolled her eyes at her promise.
"You remember how to get there?"
"Yes Tsunade did take me as an apprentice mom. Her house hasn't changed since then."
Sakura bowed to both her parents before turning and walking leisurely towards her master's residence.
"Her quick mastery of the Geta is admirable. Took me a whole month to be able to move as quickly," Kiyari commented.
"Don't look so impressed," Kyodu kissed his wife's temple, "She's cheating by using her chakra."
As she walked the familiar path in the city she couldn't help but spot other girls just like her, making their way towards Tsunade's home. Many of them looked excited while others were obviously nervous.
I guess it's not just me. Many of these girls look absolutely terrified.
Reasonable considering they have no idea who they will be married to.
She was halfway there when an odd thought struck her. Why did her mother mention the Uchiha heir? It was odd to say the least, she didn't really believe that Sakura could marry such a man…did she? No she can't think that way. Every woman in the world wanted to marry an Uchiha and if she were the unfortunate woman then she would have to live the rest of her life being the envy of every woman her age and older. It would best to just not get involved with that family. Besides Sasuke was a total arrogant ass, especially after that last confrontation with Hinata.
But Itachi?
Well as much as Sakura would love to hate him she honestly couldn't form an opinion. She had only met him once briefly. He had barely spoken to her but he was definitely polite in the traditional chivalrous sense. But it was still not enough to form a concrete opinion. Even so…she did not want to marry an Uchiha, especially if he turned out to be like his brother.
She knew she had reached her destination because there was a crowd where all the young ladies of sixteen and seventeen stood in Tsunade's courtyard. She briefly scanned the crowd and decided she didn't feel like making any type of entrance. Then she spotted Hinata; she stood off to the side in a corner near some of the clan women. Sakura easily breezed around the wall to where Hinata was standing and launched herself up and over the wall with chakra. Lifting her kimono slightly she landed perfectly on the ground only kicking up a small puff of dust. Hinata gave a startled gasp at her presence.
"Sakura-san," she breathed before smiling, "You startled me."
"My apologies Hinata-san, but I didn't feel like walking through the main entrance and through the large gaggle of women if you know what I mean," Sakura winked at her friend.
Hinata giggled, "Yes, I arrived early so I wouldn't have to either." She paused to take in her friend's appearance, "By the way Sakura-san you look absolutely stunning."
Sakura gave her a bashful smile, "Oh…thanks Hinata-san. I feel…really out of my element."
"It's alright, just hold your head up. You are a noble even if you come from a civilian background."
Sakura smiled gratefully at her friend before taking in her appearance. Hinata wore a white kimono lined with deep purple sashes and large plum irises imprinted onto the silk. Her navy hair was pulled into an elegant twist and clipped in the back and the top of her head was decorated with a large array of fresh flowers. Her makeup was simple like Sakura's but gave off more of a motherly look than sophistication. Her lips were a light glossy pink.
"Well I'm certainly nothing compared to you but thank you for the compliment," Sakura bowed slightly.
Just then her "arch-rival" sauntered up to her looking quite silly as she did. She could not walk on the geta properly and had to take tiny steps to reach Sakura and Hinata. But despite how poorly the blonde was trying to balance in her shoes Sakura could tell she was going to have to watch her words. Ino was about to come unleash hell.
"Well, well if it isn't our little civilian come to join us," Ino snidely commented.
Both women didn't respond and stared at her with blank faces. Ino and Sakura had been friends until a week after the incident Ino had told Sakura that she wanted Uchiha Sasuke and after the incident Sakura had stopped talking to her. She had assumed that Sakura wanted him as well, like most of the other girls in the village. When in reality Sakura chose not to be her friend anymore because of what the young girl was turning into; a prissy, powdered, vulnerable girl and that was something that Sakura swore she wouldn't ever become. And if she didn't want to become that then she couldn't be friends with anyone like that.
Ino, Sakura knew, was a Yamanaka and thereby was permitted to learn chakra usage and the other shinobi arts considering she was a bloodline clan, but she knew she did not work hard at it. Ino was able to transfer her mind but that was about all she could do. And if she ever tried pulling her technique on Sakura that powdered drama queen wouldn't know what hit her. Ino practiced less that Hinata did and she never took her training seriously. How did Sakura know…well she wouldn't admit it out loud but she had done some spying around the village. It was considered training, right?
She was pulled back into the present with another snide comment with the blonde, "So what is a civilian like you doing over here anyway. Shouldn't you be standing over there with all the other civilian girls?"
"I don't recall being directed to stand anywhere and as such I think I'm permitted to wait where ever I please," Sakura intoned dryly. She could take petty insults but if Ino thought she was above her just because she was from a bloodline clan then she had another thing coming.
Ino looked quite pretty, she supposed. She had a heavily painted face, hair done up in an elegant twist that stuck out of the back of her head like a horn. Flowers were set inside the twist as well as throughout the rest of her hair. Sakura figured they had extra flowers to spare considering they didn't have to buy any. Her family, while shinobi, also sold flowers in Konoha. The kimono was very pretty, a light purple gradient with a dark green and contrasting colored flowers. A pity Ino could not carry a kimono the way Sakura did not to mention she had the grace of an elephant. She could tell Ino was slightly envious at the easy way that Sakura held herself. Sakura wanted to roll her eyes, if that woman had half a brain in her skull then she would realize that if she put chakra in her feet then all her problems would disappear. But she wasn't about the help the selfish girl, her chakra control probably still sucked anyway.
"Hinata-chan I don't know how you can stand around with her, why don't you come over here with me and the other bloodline girls," Ino held her arm out in an invitation.
Hinata looked at her like she was crazy. She briefly shot a glance at Sakura and noticed her friend was trying really hard not to do anything rash, "Yamanaka-san," she started with a quiet but authoritative tone, "I don't remember giving you permission to address me so informally. In fact I don't even remember you greeting myself or Haruno-san properly."
Ino was slightly taken aback at the typically quiet girl's tone. She glared at Sakura knowing that her bad attitude was obviously rubbing off on the Hyuuga heiress. This obviously needed to be fixed, "My apologies Hyuuga-san. I meant you no disrespect. I am sure that you would rather be in better company."
"I believe I am quite capable of choosing my own company. Thank you for your concern," Hinata turned away from the conversation signaling to Ino that she was done socializing.
Ino was furious…she was just blown off! Nobody blows her off and gets away with it! "Hyuuga-san, it does not do well for you to be seen with the likes of her! She has a bad reputation in the village; she's insensitive, crass, belligerent, and these are characteristics I'm sure your family does not want you to be around!"
"I believe that Hyuuga-san dismissed you with her previous statement," Sakura took a purposeful step in front of her best friend. No way was she going to let Hinata be bullied. As Ino stated, her reputation in the village was already set, Hinata's needed to stay clean.
"I was not addressing you Sakura," Ino growled.
"It would seem to me that while you are taking the time pointing out my unladylike characteristics you seem to be displaying some far worse than my own," Sakura inwardly smirked while outwardly she kept the same stony expression.
"Don't you dare compare me to you! My flowers are bigger and they have jewels on them not to mention that my kimono has gold threads in it which would indeed make them much more expensive than yours. You don't stand a chance at marrying well. You family's only trade is in silk which is a common trade in this part of the country meaning that your family is poor. So don't talk to me as if we are on the same level because we are not you…civilian!"
Sakura was getting more annoyed by the second. Not only was Ino trying to distinguish rank but now she was picking on her family. Those insults never went unpunished. In order to keep the promise to her mother about not getting into a verbal spat with any women she decided to take a different path. After all she never said she couldn't use Kigechu.
Hinata face turned and she stared aghast at Ino's accusations. She was surprised at how well Sakura was taking the insults considering her naturally short temper. But when her sleeve moved down and grazed the cobble stone courtyard Hinata had to hide a small smirk as she watched Sakura's snake leave her sleeve. Oh…this was about to get interesting. Hinata inwardly smiled in anticipation.
Sakura easily sent a chakra message into her snake and added an extra boost of malicious intent. She wanted to embarrass this woman to the point that the blonde bitch would never approach her again. She could feel her snake grow smaller as he began unwinding from around her body. Sakura let her sleeves touch the ground letting Kigechu out. His turned into a dark grey to match the stone and from what Sakura could tell he was no bigger than her pinky.
This is gonna be good.
Get that nasty harpy!
A small tingle at the base of her spine alerted her to watching eyes. Glancing around at the other women in the courtyard it was obvious that they would watch the embarrassing display of the Yamanaka. But they were not the cause of her spine tingle. No whoever caused it was hidden so she began a chakra search starting in the surrounding trees. It was probably some creeper trying to catch a peek at all the eligible females. Oh she would show that bastard a thing or two once she spotted him.
Except there was one problem…she couldn't find the pervert.
That means it's probably a shinobi. Look for life force chakra.
Good idea.
There were very few people who were adept at suppressing their life force. While true that suppressing regular chakra would keep you relatively concealed from prying eyes…but if you could suppress your life force then you were undetectable, even from sensor types. After a cursory glance around the perimeter she finally caught a faint chakra signature and her eyes locked onto the being hiding in the trees.
Holy shit it's Uchiha Itachi!
Holy shit it's Uchiha Itachi!
What the hell is he doing here?!
Obviously enjoy the view, Her Inner commented noting the small smirk on his face, He's probably noticed Kigechu leave your sleeve, which would account for the smirk.
Well fine, I hope he enjoys the show…creeper. Her opinion of him just dropped…slightly…
Uchiha Itachi was well-known for being the prodigy of the Konoha. An ANBU operative at the age of thirteen and a reputation for being so fast, that not even the top taijutsu specialist Maito Gai, who concentrated on speed, could beat him. He was the eldest son and heir of one of the most highly sought after clans and had a mastery over his bloodline technique that no other Uchiha could compare to.
But Uchiha Itachi had a problem. He was also very handsome; handsome to the point that he had received more than a thousand wedding proposals from matchmakers from all over the Land of Fire, some of them from the matchmakers themselves, much to his annoyance and embarrassment. While being handsome was a problem it wasn't something he had any control over…as was another problem.
His bigger problem at the moment was that one of the women in the courtyard below him would be his bride. His father knew that Itachi would not marry willingly, even if it was his duty to the clan. He was an antisocial being which was born from his having to grow up so fast at such a young age. But his father also knew that Itachi disliked noble bloodline girls and refused to consider an Uchiha girl as a bride. As a compromise and in order to get his ridiculously stubborn son to even try and commit to marriage, he told him to have a look around and decide on a different type of girl that appealed to him.
"I don't care if she's noble or not," Fugaku rubbed the bridge of his nose in exasperated frustration, "Just find yourself a woman so that you can have an heir before you get any older."
Admittedly this is the exact reaction Itachi was looking for. Being isolated at an early age Itachi wanted to have the power to choose who he spent the rest of his life with. He didn't want a woman who was boring or weak, he didn't want one that only wanted him for his name and money. No he wanted an equal. He wanted a clever woman that he could hold an intelligent conversation with. A slightly competent shinobi would be preferable but knowing the type of women in his village…one such woman would be rare. Which lead him to his current position, hiding in Tsunade's large oak tree, observing all the women who had just come of age.
He had been sitting in that tree for over thirty minutes and had scrutinized each of the girls with a very picky eye. He had even sent chakra to his ear to listen to what they said. As far as he could tell, only some of the girls had developed enough chakra coils to barely meet the minimum standard for a Genin let alone a Chunin. How very disappointing. And all of them save for the Hyuuga heiress, were speaking of who they wanted to marry and how they would lie about themselves just to get married to a high up clan. It was either him, or his little brother, or Hyuuga Neji, were the hottest topics of conversation. Not to mention they were all covered in makeup so their faces looked fake and had too many flowers in their hair for his liking. Yes he was being super picky but he felt he had earned that right.
He had been prepared to give up, none of the women were meeting his standard...but then she arrived. He almost missed her sudden entrance had he not been studying the Hyuuga heiress. Her landing was flawless, not a hair out of place. His attention was definitely grabbed as he recognized the pink haired beauty before him. She was the same woman he ran into at the Hyuuga estate. The Hyuuga Lord had almost passed by her when Itachi had stopped to be introduced. His reason…she was beautiful. He distinctly remembered her defined porcelain face and that Hyuuga Hiashi introduced her as Haruno Sakura. He instantly connected the name Haruno with ANBU's former Captain Haruno Kyodu which Hiashi confirmed a moment later. Sakura had bowed respectfully allowing Itachi to take in her slightly formal yukata that Hiashi seemed to frown upon. His fortune at meeting the woman was cut short as Hiashi continued down the hall easily dismissing the woman. Ever since that day she had been on his mind.
And now here she was, standing among the women who were going to present themselves before the matchmaker meaning she was eligible to be married. Her appearance pleased him, her hair a perfect combination of hair and jewels. Her make light but refined, matching the way she held herself gracefully next to the Hyuuga heiress. Now he had to make sure she was up to par. Itachi had examined her chakra coils to see if she had any shinobi training or at the very least chakra usage. From the amount of development her chakra coils seemed to have, he felt it only reached the level of a Genin. The only female in that vicinity with Chunin chakra coils was the Hyuuga heiress. This was most interesting considering her rather flashy appearance into the courtyard. He knew that anyone with Genin level chakra control would not have landed as smoothly as she did, especially in that outfit. He dismissed the thought of her cloaking her chakra, because in order to do that, one had to learn how to separate life-force and regular chakra, only Jounin or ANBU could do that if they trained. She was only a civilian noble woman…that was impossible for her to master right?
She could simply be graceful he observed as she carried herself with the air of confidence that was rare for a woman of her status. He remembered Sasuke talking about her and he shared a story that had intrigued his elder brother. She had been drinking tea with Hinata in the courtyard when a kunai was misfired and flew their way. She merely tilted her head to the side and moved her hand downwards by a fraction letting the kunai hit the wall behind her. When asked about the incident she had merely said it was a reflex. He knew there was no way that kind of unconscious reaction was a reflex unless said reflex stemmed from intense shinobi training. He pondered for a few seconds…her father was a former ANBU Captain…maybe his daughter inherited some of his abilities. It was not a stretch to imagine in that regard, especially if he took it upon himself to train her after his retirement from ANBU.
Another memory popped into his mind. The day after Sasuke had told him the kunai story Itachi had trouble sleeping. He didn't want to sit in his room restless so he decided that since it was a full moon he would take a walk to try and clear his head. Maybe then he would fall asleep. Instead of clearing his mind it was instantly filled with a beautiful figure riding bare back on a horse out in the open meadow. Wearing what he suspected was a loose hippori that she didn't bother to tie properly and a hakama that was not tied high enough, it was a good thing he was watching from a distance. It would hardly be proper to observe the woman in such revealing clothing…but still he could not turn away from majestic beauty before him. The moonbeams made her already porcelain skin shimmer, her pink hair thrown back in a silver wave from the speed the horse was running. Her body was leaning down close to the stallion's back allowing the powerful animal to surge forward faster without as much wind resistance from its rider. Then suddenly the beast stopped at the end of meadow and surged back on its hind legs, the rider held tightly onto the horse's mane while he proclaimed his dominance of the night. The dark black mane glimmering onyx in the moonlight as the great animal shook its head, kicking his front feet in the air. The combination of his black body and her ethereal form were in such contrast that he couldn't help but admire the perfection, they both belonged together. Landing back again on its feet the stallion surged forward again but this time at a slower pace. Sakura sat up, threw her arms out to the sides, and leaned back taking a deep breath of the fresh air. She looked completely at peace surrounded by the night. But as he continued to watch her it wasn't so much she was at peace but something…more. Almost like she was free.
For a moment he was envious of her freedom. To be able to have this peace at her fingertips when he couldn't even find peace in sleep, a small wave of jealousy overtook him. So much had been placed on his shoulders not only as the Uchiha heir but also as an ANBU Captain and advisor to the Hokage. Between meetings, missions, and training he never had a moment to himself. Never a moment of peace…and it was that opportunity to be free that made him envious of the woman.
His train of thought was broken when the Yamanaka girl began screeching at the object of his fascination. Sakura had strategically placed her body in front of the Hyuuga heiress. Her face was a perfect façade of calm but underneath he felt her chakra spike in anger. He didn't need to enhance his hearing in order to hear the blonde shout her immature accusations. It was such childish behavior for a bloodline woman to be displaying…especially one that was meeting her matchmaker. He pitied whatever man ended up with her high maintenance hide. Sakura then lowered her arms still keeping an air of calm authority. It was a suspicious move to leave oneself vulnerable like that…until he spotted a small creature leave Sakura's furisode sleeve.
What on earth is she planning to do with such a small animal? He thought to himself. While bewildered by her actions he couldn't help but become intrigued and he leaned forward slightly waiting to see what would happen. If the mischievous aura now surrounding pinkette was anything to go by he knew it was going to be good. Her crass and slightly volatile behavior was very well known to him.
She started scanning her surroundings and he smirked guessing that she had sensed his presence. If she was picking up his presence then her skill was at least that of a Chunin or greater. Now he was reconsidering her shinobi level and toyed with the idea that she may very well be suppressing the majority of her chakra. So he indulged her and let her find him. She made eye contact the instant he stopped suppressing his life force within him, which surprised him slightly. It took him a moment to realize that her look was challenging him in some way. Knowing her it was probably to say, Enjoy the show. He smirked in response his answer obvious on his face.
The small grey creature slowly made its way up the skirt of the Yamanaka girl and she didn't even notice. He spied the Hyuuga heiress now watching the exchange with rapt attention. Sudden the blonde stilled and he could have sworn there was a large coil around the girl's middle that wasn't there prior. Her answering shriek confirmed his suspicions. Sakura had a summon? But he didn't see her weave signs? Not to mention summoning contracts were reserved for shinobi families not civilians. How very, very interesting.
Suddenly the immature woman's legs were tangled in a large purple mess as the snake quickly wrapped around her delicate appendages. And since the girl was wearing five inch tall getas, an over exaggeration for any typical woman, she promptly fell onto the dirt covered stones in the courtyard. Some of the other women, clans and civilians, laughed at Ino's demise. Her kimono now utterly ruined by snake bites and dirt. Her hair was askew and many of the plethora of flowers in her hair had fallen to the ground while she thrashed about trying to rid her body of the snake.
Sakura's miniscule wrist movement called the reptile back to her and with Itachi's now activated sharingan he could identify the creature as a snake and also how it shrunk in size before quickly flitting back up into Sakura's sleeve. He also noted the similar chakra signature that the snake and Sakura shared. That was definitely uncharacteristic of a summons and his master. He couldn't figure it out but he knew that Sakura held a strange sort of bond with the reptile. Maybe in time he would find out exactly what and how they became bonded.
"Haruno Sakura!" Her named was called by Tsunade's first apprentice Shizune.
She surprised him by turning to him again and making eye contact. Once he held her gaze she quickly glanced at the fallen Yamanaka then back at him. She then turn her nose up slightly in the air telling him that she was obviously not his type and that his brand of woman was currently lying on the floor. She was trying to turn him off of her.
Her plan would not work and if anything it made him want her even more.
He was definitely interested in her.
"Haruno Sakura!" And that was her cue. She would love to stay and watch Ino in distress but she had to go. She turned her head slightly to catch the elder Uchiha's eye. She made sure to send Ino a quick glance afterward her nonverbal message being "there's your woman." Instead of following her line of sight the Uchiha heir continued to stare unabashedly at her with his red eyes, his smirk widened.
What a creeper!
One hot mess of a creeper…
INNER!
She had praised Kigechu inwardly as the little thing slithered up her legs and settled nicely around her arm. She could have sworn she felt it preening as he flattened himself to look more like a tattoo than a snake. He was obviously quite pleased with himself. She cast Hinata one final look of luck then proceeded inside.
Inside the matchmakers home was filled with a rich spicy scent. Tonton came running up to her and she bowed slightly to pat the plump little pig on the head.
"Sakura. Come and sit."
"Yes Tsunade-sama."
Tsunade was the most renowned healer and was the first woman with the privilege of being officially trained past the Jounin level. However, tradition was tradition and rules were rules. She was still female and was only called upon when the country was in grave danger and the last time that had happened was ten years ago.
Her home had two sides to it and Sakura was the second person ever to be fortunate enough to see the second side. Double-leveled with a barely there gentle illusion cast on it to induce the person into being a lot more cooperative. Sakura and Shizune were the only two people to ever pass it unaffected had leading them to be in Tsunade's good graces. Not to mention that Sakura had a good sense of humor and a sharp wit that Tsunade found refreshing. The buxom woman had happily taught Sakura as much as she knew and had given her scrolls she had written herself to study. Unlike many of the proper girls, Sakura had no qualms with drinking sake and had in fact, sniffed out her sake room that was hidden in the walls. Not that she would ever confess to her parents about her under-age drinking. That was a secret she would take the grave.
After a good four years of Tsunade's thrice weekly company, Sakura could finish over fifty bottles of sixty percent alcohol and ten bottles of Tsunade's homemade wine distiller from corn. For special uses and purposes only, this ninety percent alcoholic drink had sent both Sakura and Tsunade to the floor. So far, Sakura still hasn't managed to out drink Tsunade on her homemade drink. She was still down by half a bottle, but she was determined to fix that when she got older. After the first taste of the drink Sakura knew she would have to circulate her chakra to remove the effects of alcohol. Of course, Tsunade had beat it into her that when she woke up in the morning after the night to remove all the toxins no matter how painful it was, or she would cut her open and do it herself. Sakura never wanted to try it that way. She always needed to do a system clean after drinking though Tsunade's high tolerance made her practically immune to such a procedure.
Tsunade-sama was well-known within Fire Country as well as many of the other hidden villages for her prowess as a medic as well as her mountain-crushing strength she held. When Sakura had badgered enough about learning the technique Tsunade finally complied…but only under the strictest of promises that she never used that technique. If the Elders found out she'd be in trouble. The rules of their country were tough on an ambitious woman. Add on the lack of women who were willing to go against the law to train to be kunoichis was not even five percent. The fight was lost before it even started. Tsunade always ranted about that very subject when she was hammered. Regardless, when Sakura had asked to be taken as an apprentice Tsunade had gladly complied muttering, "thank goodness some girl was willing to learn and was not afraid of some hard work."
It pained Tsunade to see so many able-bodied women refuse to become medics or even healers. If enough women were willing to try, she would happily train them all even if it would leave her utterly exhausted at the end of each day. However...that chauvinist Danzo had complained to the Council Elders often enough that it had reached a point where unless the woman was within a bloodline family, no formal training would be allowed for women in a public Academy setting. Therefore, only a few women had learned to be healers, and even then, they were too busy succumbing to their husbands wishes to really be effective. Not to mention the number of women choosing to learn dropped by fifty percent when the new edict Danzo and Elders drafted was put out for the public to read.
"Ummm, Tsunade-sama?" Sakura tilted her head scrutinizing the woman, "Are you drunk?"
The older woman bristled, "What the hell kind of a question is that?"
Sakura rolled her eyes, yup definitely drunk, "You were muttering about inequality again. You didn't even notice that I had sat down."
She snorted, "Right, whatever…you can't expect me to meet with all these women and do it while I'm sober. It would drive them and me crazy that everyone would be found dishonorable and unsuitable to marry anybody in the village."
The pinkette giggled her hand delicately covering her mouth, "I guess that'd be true. In that case may I pour you another drink?"
Tsunade smirked at the girl, "Yes but do it properly. I do have a job to accomplish today."
Sakura nodded then delicately folded the long sleeve back and grabbed the sake bottle. She tilted the ceramic bottle until the powerful liquid filled the small cup leaving just enough room for the drinker to pick it up without spilling it.
"Perfectly done," she smiled and downed the drink, "We really should teach those girls how to pour sake not tea. Men prefer the stronger drink."
Sakura rolled her eyes. It was just like her to say something like that, "I'm sure they would."
"How's training with your father?"
"It's going well. I miss all the weapons he throws at me now. Dodge training with you helped immensely."
She nodded, "Good. How's your chakra control?"
"Perfect," Sakura stated proudly.
"Should I expect anything less from you," Tsunade smiled softly.
"Never."
"I thought not. Well, have you finished those scrolls I assigned you to read?"
"Yes I have."
"Good," she sipped her sake, "I want you to stop by when you have some free time and work on some of the antidotes you read about with Shizune."
Sakura nodded, "I'll probably be over tomorrow. Do you have any other scrolls for me to read?"
"No, by now you are just a learned as I am in this field," Tsunade lips quirked into a proud smirk, "How long have you been coming to see me?"
Sakura tilted her head up thinking, "I think about three years now."
The older woman snorted again, "Three years and you've already surpassed me. I've taught you everything I know…Kami I'm getting old."
"Awww, you're not old Tsunade-obaa-chan," Sakura giggled as the woman glared at her, "You don't look a day over thirty."
"HA! And it'll stay that way if I have anything to say or do about it."
Sakura paused for a second wondering if this was a good time, or even an appropriate time, to bring up a sensitive subject, "You know Tsunade-sama…you haven't taught me everything."
Amber eyes instantly hardened, "Don't even ask Sakura. It's forbidden."
"But if it's useful then it needs to be passed on!"
Tsunade growled at her petulance, "No. That's final."
"Fine if you won't teach me the forbidden jutsu then at least teach me your Yin Seal," Sakura folded her arms sending an uncompromising glower at her master.
The buxom woman paused, mid drink, to weigh the options, "Alright. I will teach you the Yin seal. But no more! You got it? I will never, EVER teach you that forbidden jutsu!"
Sakura nodded rather smugly.
Tsunade smiled, "You bullheaded, stubborn woman. Stop acting like me, men don't like that." Sakura was about to reply but she held up her hand silencing her, "I know what you're going to say. And I agree for the more part. Let's get this matchmaker business over with and I can teach you the technique."
"Okay."
"Now pour yourself some tea, Haruno Sakura, and lie about everything you are going to say to me."
Sakura giggled. "Of course Matchmaker-san."
Tsunade rolled her eyes then picked up the designated script that Shizune drafted for her three years ago. She smirked lightly at the thought. She had been so wasted this same day three years ago that she could barely remember what she was supposed to be doing. Needless to say, Shizune saved her matchmaking hide by stepping in and sobering her master up. She didn't completely blame herself though…reading through this stuff was more boring than watching paint dry. "Haruno Sakura, do you -" She couldn't do it. She sighed and cleared her throat again. "Now, Haruno Sakura, do- okay that is it! I can't do this to you!" She shoved the paper and board into Sakura's hands. "Read it."
Sakura smirked lightly thinking that she was only overacting…then she began reading.
Requirements of a bride-to-be:
1. She has to be able to bear as many children as her husband wishes.
2. She must understand that she is to cook, clean and sew for any member of the main house. This includes her husband's mother and father, her husband and their children. But this is only a requirement for those who will marry into a noble bloodline clan. Should she marry into any clan is however not in training to be a matriarch, she has to be prepared to clean and cook as well as do any other chores based on her ranking in the family.
3. She must dress as her husband wishes and must fulfill his needs no matter how bizarre, crude, or tedious they may be.
4. She must understand that her husband is permitted to have as many concubines and women as he wishes. He may visit the flower houses should he wish and she is not allowed to complain.
5. If she has an improper relationship with other men she will be flogged in public and if she is impregnated both mother and child is to be drowned. However, if her husband does not wish her dead, she may be allowed to live but the child is to be drowned.
6. Should she have any training or outings going on whatsoever, she should be prepared to cancel them all when she gets married. It is possible that she may have to completely give up her past lifestyle to accommodate her husband's lifestyle. This is because he is now providing for her.
7. She must always have a cheerful, demure, and gentle demeanor and must be readily presentable at all times.
These are just the basic requirements for any bride-to-be and should she not answer in accordance to this paper then she will not be a good wife for any man.
Should she agree to the above list, the potential bride must then understand her husband's social standing is more important than her own. Intellect is not a desirable trait, she must remember to keep silent and know her place. If her opinion is asked then she may answer but use as little words as possible.
Every bride-to-be will have their forms sent to a noble bloodline, a bloodline, or civilian clan of the matchmaker's choosing. There may be certain requirements in different houses and should the bride-to-be be unable to fulfill them she will not be considered for that clan. All notices will be received first to the matchmaker then she will deliver the requests to the clan head of the bride. Negotiations will follow afterward at the groom and his family's convenience.
Sakura's hands were shaking as she slowly placed the paper on the table in front of her. This was unreal…"You say you can't do this to me. What about the other girls?"
"Sakura, none of the other girls have your spirit or fire. This is what they have been working for their entire lives. This type of woman is who they are. But not you, you are different. If you were to marry a man who expected nothing but this from you," she grabbed the paper and held it up for emphasis, "Kami Sakura it would destroy who you are. You are a kunoichi and a medic, not a goddamned house wife! I'm trying to look out for you in an age where we women have no rights and it is not easy to survive being so under appreciated."
The pinkette paused with a forlorn look, "Whoever I marry will have complete control over my life…there's nothing I can do." She looked at her scarred hands before clenching them, "If this is what awaits me for marriage then I don't give a shit. I'll become an old maid if I have to!"
"Will you stop being melodramatic!" Tsunade slammed her hand on the table silencing Sakura's pathetic rant, "I told you I would look out for you and I have. There is one candidate I think would be perfect for you."
Sakura glared at her mentor but kept her mouth shut waiting for her to continue. Her anger boiling just beneath the surface.
"He hasn't chosen a woman the past few matchmaking seasons because none of them lived up to his standard. He's picky but his position in life allows him to be. And he won't even look at another woman from within his clan because of their natural born arrogance." Sakura kept glaring wondering where this was going. "He's a very talented shinobi and would definitely support your continued training. While he may seem proud…it's actually a ruse. This man is rather shy and awkward with most people. Growing up as a prodigy does that to a person. But all in all Sakura…he's a good man. I think that if he were to accept you, which I think he will, he would make you very happy."
Sakura's face froze into one of shock. Her master was actually recommending a man for her to marry?
"Does he sound at all agreeable to you?"
She couldn't answer. She didn't know how any man could sound agreeable. With all the men she had ever met in her life they have always been the same. How could one man be different?
Tsunade sighed at her silence. She knew this wasn't going to be easy in the first place. A year ago Sakura had opened up to her and shared her traumatizing story when she was only a young girl. After that event Tsunade had been dreading this day. Sakura wasn't the type of woman who liked to be controlled, it meant she was weak. And everything her apprentice had been doing since she was six years old was to prevent her from ever being weak again. And now…with the current marriage laws in Konoha…there was no hope for a girl like her.
"Who is he?" she asked quietly.
"His name is…" she gulped knowing this would shock the girl senseless, "Uchiha Itachi."
Instead of shock that the amber eyed woman had predicted Sakura's eyes flared like molten lava, her anger rolling off her body in waves, "WHAT KIND OF SICK JOKE IS THIS?!"
"Sakura calm yourself!"
"NO! First it's my mother and now it's you!" she continued ranting, "What makes you think I'm at all suitable to marry the heir of the Uchiha clan! He's nothing but a stupid, creepy…ARGH!" She cursed because she still couldn't insult him properly…it was positively maddening!
"Be silent woman!" Tsunade shrieked and when she slammed the table…this time it broke in half. Sakura was stunned into silence at her master's odd display of power. The woman was always careful not to let it leak out…for her to do so she must be livid.
"Just shut up and listen to me," Tsunade proceeded with a business like voice, "I know this isn't what you wanted to her…and I promise I haven't been talking to you mother about this. But understand that it's common knowledge that Itachi is not married and is looking for a bride. Now I'm asking you to look at this from my perspective. Can you do that?"
Sakura reigned in her anger knowing that against her master it would do no good. Tsunade could play the stubborn game better than she could. Taking a deep breath to steady her rampant nerves she nodded.
"Thank you. Now being a matchmaker I am privy to all resumes and profiles on both men and women in this village. I use these profiles to create my matches…on a personal note I'm damn good at it. Of course for noble clans I have to take into account whether the woman is agreeable to the family as well before presenting them with a woman's resume. As such I know every single woman I have recommended to the Uchiha's and each and every one of the women I have presented he has turned down. In this regard my job as a matchmaker has failed. So in this sense I stopped and retraced my steps. I re-examined every resume I sent them and every one of those women were like the young girls you see outside. I realized then that Itachi isn't looking for a weak female. He wants someone who is different. This is why I'm recommending him to you because a Sakura, you are not only different; your entire outlook on life goes against the tradition."
Her head was bowed as Sakura processed all this information. It made sense in a way that if he turned down every trophy woman who crossed his path that he would want someone different. But still…why her? She would make a terrible house wife and surely his family would never approve of her.
"Wh…" she cleared her throat and took a sip of cold tea, "What about his family?"
Tsunade smirked, "Uchiha-sama is fit to be tied with his eldest. He doesn't give a damn who the boy marries as long as he does. Itachi is twenty years old and according to Fugaku's expectations his eldest should have been married already with an heir born or on the way. This situation couldn't turn out more perfect even if I tried."
Sakura sighed, it was clearly obvious that Tsunade was proud of herself or the situation.
"Want to know what else I think?"
Sakura shrugged then looked up. Tsunade's tone of voice suggested she wasn't going to speak until Sakura looked at her.
"I think that Itachi doesn't want a wife…he wants a companion. He wants someone…to love."
Sakura's body shivered.
Oh dear Kami…love?
Aren't you looking for the same thing too?
Inner had a point, she conceded. But still…what if he turned out to be different? What if once she married him all those stupid things on that list were enforced on her and there was nothing she could do?
"Sakura don't over think this ok? Just take what I said and mull it over. Besides, I can only send the family your resume; it's his job to decide whether or not he wants to begin negotiations with your family. So take deep breaths and let's start working on your resume shall we?"
Sakura could only nod and began answering Tsunade's questions about her homemaking skills. Her brain ran on autopilot since the questions were only about her sewing capabilities and cooking skills. Those things were never very important to her and they probably would continue not to be low on her priority list even after she was married. Then on a separate sheet she started asking Sakura about her kunoichi studies. She could tell that Tsunade was taking significantly more time detailing the extent of her training and after they had finished her master rolled each of the scrolls separately and addressed them. Sakura thought it was odd but didn't bother to question it. All she wanted now was to go home and take out all of her pent up frustration on her dad's puppets!
"Alright here's your prize," Tsunade handed her a scroll, "Guard this with your life and make sure to only place one on your body. Any more than that and you risk chakra exhaustion."
Sakura took the proffered scroll and place it in her purse, "Thank you."
Tsunade nodded then motioned for her to stand, "You're welcome. Train your ass off and I'll see you tomorrow to work on antidotes."
Again a big shout out to Lollie-chan, i never would have thought up that list of requirements. That was truly brilliant on her part! R&R please :D