CHAPTER 8: Long Live The Daimyo
The village lay ensnared in the clutches of yet another tempest. Haruki mused, his return sparking ripples of impact that threatened to disrupt his attempts at maintaining a relatively low profile, if that's even possible in the first place. While he acknowledged that his overflowing reputation could be advantageous for certain plans, he understood all too well the perilous nature of attention. He knew he must navigate these waters with utmost caution.
Haruki's extraordinary display of medical expertise had effectively turned the hospital into an adoring brigade following his lead. The doctors and residents in attendance thirsted for more, longing to experience Haruki's surgical brilliance up close. Yet, securing patient consent for such demonstrations turned out to be a challenging endeavor. Ordinarily, patients exhibited reluctance to approve their surgeries being witnessed by a crowd of physicians. However, the previous day marked a departure from the norm. The four patients who had granted their consent did so out of deep gratitude. Their fellow physicians had deemed their chances of survival too narrow to risk the procedures, thereby, refusing to operate and seemingly condemning them to a fatal fate. Providentially, Haruki arrived at the precise moment to offer them a glimmer of hope, a chance to fight back.
On his second day at work, exhaustion washed over Haruki like a tidal wave. The relentless rhythm of surgeries drained him physically and mentally. In the brief intervals between operations, he assumed control of the overcrowded trauma wards, brimming with injured ninjas and fatigued ANBU operatives. As he attended to the ANBU members, a thought crossed his mind—were these elite ops secretly assessing his capabilities on behalf of the Third Hokage? It wouldn't be a surprise if the ANBU, being the Hokage's trusted subordinates, were tasked with observing his performance and reporting back to their leader.
Though Haruki possessed a multitude of ideas for restructuring the hospital, their implementation would require not only the approval of the Hospital Director but also navigating a labyrinth of paperwork and legal complexities. Yet, he sensed that even these efforts might not be enough. He contemplated seeking external assistance, considering various individuals or clans who might offer their support. However, approaching them would be challenging, as it could arouse suspicion and hinder potential alliances.
As the day drew to a close, Haruki was finally forced to clock off, realizing that he had once again forgotten to return home. But it wasn't just him experiencing the strain. Some of his fellow attendings and residents faced even harsher fates, succumbing to exhaustion and fainting from sheer fatigue. The hospital, which had buzzed with activity earlier, now settled into an eerie silence. Today, despite being granted a mandatory vacation day, Haruki anticipated that it would prove just as busy and demanding as the rest.
There he stood, outside the house that had captured his heart, while Tsunade-sensei and Shizu-nee watched a sizeable procession of men, each shouldering a multitude of items. Prominent among these were several visually striking palanquins, overflowing with gifts. The spectacle, akin to a bustling festival, drew curious villagers from every corner to his doorstep. Amid the spectacle, a nagging headache began to take shape.
"Akihiro-san.." he greeted the highest-ranking official in the procession, his mind still dazed from just waking up and overwhelmed by the unbelievable ongoing occurrence. Akihiro was a friendly noble with a deep-rooted family legacy, and he shared several business ventures with Haruki. He also held top-level positions in the Daimyo administration.
Akihiro, the still spry man in his late 30s laughed joyfully at the bewildered boy whom he adored. "Good morning to you too, Haruki-san" he playfully teased him. Haruki simply looked at the never-ending procession, slowly waking up before going deadpan, "Akihiro-san, one would think that you're planning to invade Konoha with this amount of men". Both of them went silent before bursting into manly laughter and childish giggles. Anyone watching can clearly tell that they're truly good friends.
The unusually robust noble cleared his throat subtly, trying to gather his composure. "I bear a message from the Daimyo," he declared. Haruki's body language shifted in response to his announcement. He stood tall like a seasoned noble, head held high. Taking a small step back with his left foot, he positioned his feet shoulder-width apart, a stance signifying solidity and readiness.
His face, an epitome of tranquillity, locked into a concentrated gaze. He then gracefully bowed, bending from the waist. The motion was fluid, akin to a delicate feather floating downwards, the bow deep enough to convey respect but not enough to lose dignity.
This was a calibrated gesture, precisely a 15-degree bow. It exhibited due reverence towards the Daimyo and his appointed messenger while simultaneously revealing his elevated status as a Noble. A noble endorsed by the Daimyo himself, who maintained close ties with the ruling royal lineage. Even in his bow, his back remained rigid and upright, radiating an air of composure coupled with an unquestionable regality.
His arms rested naturally by his sides, hands relaxed, fingers slightly outstretched, as if trying to grasp the palpable tension in the room. His commanding presence, coupled with a graceful demeanor, would put the esteemed Hyuga clan to shame. He held the bow for a heartbeat, savoring the moment before he leisurely ascended back to his upright position.
Upon straightening, he met the gaze of the Daimyo's messenger, maintaining unflinching eye contact. His countenance mirrored a fusion of humility, gratitude, and respect, silently communicating his acknowledgment of the gravity of this pivotal moment.
Akihiro, the Daimyo's messenger, prepared to read aloud the contents of the message. Unfurling the richly decorated scroll, he began in a firm and resonant voice. "Esteemed Noble Haruki, the Daimyo's favored, this message brings tidings of joy and congratulations on your forthcoming permanent relocation to Konoha, to assume the role of Chief at Konoha's Hospital."
"Your departure from the capital city brings both pride and sadness, yet we find solace in knowing that your unique skills and benevolence will now become the cornerstone of Konoha's medical facility. To commemorate your esteemed journey and services, I have sent an entourage bearing palanquins filled to the brim with treasures. These gifts are tokens of honor and gratitude, intended to embellish your new abode and to celebrate the beginning of your new journey."
"Among these treasures, the Daimyo has taken personal initiative to gift you two name plaques. The first is a house nameplate, a symbol of new beginnings, and a true masterpiece. Crafted from the finest mahogany, it has been adorned with inlays of pure gold, adding a distinct touch of elegance and opulence befitting a Fire Noble's residence. The plaque is meticulously lacquered to a high gloss, reflecting light as brilliantly as the sun itself, symbolizing the warmth and generosity of its owner."
"Prominently etched in the center is the insignia of the Land of Fire - a vibrant, roaring flame enclosed within a circle. The flame, representing life and strength, has been intricately depicted, with each flicker meticulously rendered to bring it to life. Surrounding the central emblem are spiraling gold traceries, depicting a tableau of ancient tales that depict notable events and landmarks associated with the Land of Fire."
"On either side of the flame emblem, two phoenixes have been meticulously etched, their wings spread wide in flight, their eyes aflame. The phoenixes, representing resurrection and divinity, serve as a reminder of your esteemed status as the Saint of Embers, the healer who can bring forth life from the ashes."
"The plaque's corners are adorned with clusters of cherry blossoms, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life and the beauty it holds. These elements combined encapsulate not only the status and identity of the dwelling's owner but also symbolize the continuity of your legacy within the new Land of Fire."
"This plaque," Akihiro concluded, "is not just a piece of art or a mere sign. It stands as a testament to your life's work and contributions, a beacon signifying the dwelling of a Fire Noble, a sanctuary for healing, and a testament to your unyielding spirit and noble cause."
He continued, "The second plaque is a testament to your work and devotion, a professional nameplate bearing the inscription 'Haruki Suzaku, the Saint of Embers'. The Saint of Embers plaque features a unique emblem—a radiant phoenix rising from glowing ashes, symbolizing your rejuvenating power and the life-giving warmth of your healing touch. It is not only a title but also a recognition of your prowess and noble contributions to the realm of healing. The materials used in crafting these plaques mirror their worth—precious metals and gems, exuding an aura of luxury and opulence befitting their owner's stature."
"All of this," Akihiro paused, looking directly at Haruki, "is a reflection of the Daimyo's abundant admiration and affection for you. May these gifts serve as a constant reminder of your esteemed place in our hearts, even as you embark on this new chapter of your life in Konoha."
Once again, Haruki bowed with refined grace. "I, Haruki Suzaku, a devoted citizen of the Land of Fire and a Tokubetsu Jonin of Konoha, am profoundly humbled and deeply grateful for the generosity and goodwill extended by the wise and magnanimous Daimyo, the esteemed ruler of the Land of Fire," he responded, his voice smooth and filled with reverence.
"These tokens of honor, bestowed upon this humble servant, are a testament to the Daimyo's noble heart and unwavering judgment. His graciousness and wisdom are like the sun that illuminates our Land of Fire," Haruki continued, his words reflecting his genuine respect and gratitude. "May the benevolent Daimyo forever bask in the glow of happiness and may he be blessed with good health. His reign is a boon to us all, and may his wisdom guide us for decades to come. Long live the Daimyo," he concluded with heartfelt elegance.
His sentiments reverberated through the assembly, touching the hearts of all those present. "Long live the Daimyo," they chorused in unison, their voices filled with sincerity and mutual respect.
And so, the entire Land of Fire was engulfed in a frenzy of excitement over the news, their spirits uplifted by Haruki's recognition and the Daimyo's benevolence. The tale of the Saint of Embers had spread far and wide, weaving its way into the fabric of the nation's collective consciousness.