We're finally here! Our ship will tie the knot!

And surprisingly, I have something to talk about regarding Naruto and Kishimoto again! It's not quite as negative as my last rants, more along the lines of "huh"

But I'll leave that until after this chapter!

Naruto fidgeted around with his bowtie in the mirror. Something about it didn't seem right, it had to be perfect! He then noticed he was perspiring. "Oh no, not now!" Naruto reached for a handkerchief to wipe his face down. "This is a disaster, everything's coming undone-!"

Sensing a presence, he saw Mrs Haruno approach him. Even after their engagement, Naruto hardly talked to Sakura's mother. They exchanged pleasantries and were polite to one another, but that was it. It didn't dawn on him until this moment, but Naruto just realized they were about to become family. "Uh…hiya…" Naruto would have slapped himself if he could. Actually, he COULD…

"Let me fix that for you." Ms. Haruno quickly grabbed his tie, fastening it just right. "The spikey look isn't quite my thing, but if you insist…" She took a comb and quickly did some work. It was very much Naruto's style, but more refined as he looked in the mirror.

"Wow." He breathed as he looked into the mirror. "Thank you."

Mrs. Haruno smiled. "You know, I should apologize to you. I bought into the same narrative as the rest of the village, with the burden you carried. Even after Sakura and I reconciled, and learned to love my grandchildren, I still didn't approve of the two of you. Having children out of wedlock and all that." She took a deep breath. "But, you are the reason Sakura has become so strong and beautiful. And upon your return, I saw you care for her and your children. Far more than my own husband ever did for either of us. After speaking with Tsunade-sama about your deeds, I feel nothing but shame for ever having doubted you." Naruto was shocked. He never expected this from her. Backing away, she said "After failing to raise Sakura to her full potential, I'm not sure I have a right to say this. But I am proud to have you as a son in law." She then bowed. "Please, take care of her, and your children."

Naruto was shellshocked at first. Quickly regaining his composure, he said "I will. And thank you, for helping Sakura while I was gone. She made it because you were there." Mrs. Haruno almost cried, as she wiped a solitary tear from her eye.

Suddenly, Shikamaru came in. "Hey." He said. "Just got word that Sakura's ready to go."

"Already?!" Naruto shouted. "Ohkamiohkamiohkami…"

Shikamaru suddenly struck him across the forehead. "Enough!" Shikamaru said. "She's fifteen minutes late, and you've only got one try at this wedding. I should know; you proposed to SAKURA of all people!"

Naruto took a deep breath. "I don't know whether I should be relieved or frightened; we're all doomed if I don't go through with this!"

Hanami looked in the mirror as she inspected her dress; something she was not used to wearing. She grew up usually wearing shirts and pants. Her mom tried to get her try on dresses, but they never appealed to her and often refused. She would have refused this too, but this was important, her mom and grandma told her. She could have said ni if it was just for their enjoyment, but they were desperate for her to put this on. She couldn't find it in her to resist. She wore a red bow on top of her hair, and the dress was pink, with the shoulders puffed and the skirt was fairly wide. Instead of sneakers or sandals, she was made to wear hard red shoes. If she went too fast or was too active, her feet would hurt. She really hated this, but she promised Mommy she would. Even at her young age, she would put her mother's happiness first.

"You don't like your dress?" Her grandmother asked as she came up behind her. Hanami nodded her head no. "Well, that's a shame." She said. "But it would make mommy very happy if you went through with it. You only have to do this once."

Hanami sighed. "It's okay. I'll do it."

"I know you will." Mrs. Haruno smiled.

"I can help her!" Shinachiku suddenly announced, raising his hand. He wore a miniature suit, with a strange thing around his neck called a bowtie. He was still allowed to wear his sneakers, though.

Mrs. Haruno frowned a bit at his announcement. "Well, I don't know. According to the rules-"

"I think it will be adorable." A familiar voice said from behind them.

Mrs Haruno smiled while her grandchildren looked awestruck. "Mommy?" The twins asked.

Sakura nodded. "How is everything?"

"Everything is ready, Sakura." Her mother said. "I think your husband to be is even more frightened than you are."

"I doubt it." Sakura sighed. "But he's waiting for me. That counts more than anything. Now it's up to me to take the next step." She then looked to Hanami. "Hanami, thank you. You're very brave for doing this. I'm very proud of you. Would it make you feel better if Shinachiku walked with you?" Hanami blushed, and nodded as she looked away. "Then that's what he will do." She kissed Hanami's head before moving to her son. "Shinachiku, that is very kind of you. Just like your daddy. I'm proud of you too."

Kissing him, she stood straight again. "I think I'm ready now." She announced.

Later on, Naruto found that this wedding wasn't completely outside of tradition. The priest still dressed in shinto garb, and there was a traditional shrine at the altar with them. Their family and friends were separated based on the bride and groom. Truthfully, Naruto was quite surprised how large his side was, and he was very grateful too.

One guy with a braid was on his side that he didn't recognize. "Hey, Shikamaru? Who is he?"

Shikamaru replied "He's a friend of Heero's. Didn't catch his name."

"He has friends?"

"Don't let your bride tell you not to be rude." Shikamaru chastised him. "Anyway, your wedding invites called for plus ones, not including couples. Guess that was Hero's, since he and his family count as one."

Naruto nodded. A foreign sound then entered Naruto's ears. An organ, he was told it was called. It sounded weird, but it was lovely. "Should she be playing right now?"

"Didn't you read the program?"

"We had programs?"

Shikamaru sighed. "It means the bride is coming."

"Right now?!" Naruto yelled.

Shikamaru placed his hand over the groom's mouth. "Don't blow it now! She's coming!" He repeated himself.

First, Naruto saw Shinachiku leading Hanami on the carpet as she threw the flowers all over. The crowd's awww was well deserved, in his opinion. Hanami looked absolutely adorable, and Shinachiku helping her added to it. And then, finally, she arrived.

Kakashi, wearing an eyepatch but no mask, walked Sakura down as she clutched his arm. And of course, it was Sakura's dress that caught his attention "That's…that's a wedding dress?!" Instead of the usual kimono he was used to seeing, this was a white dress. The skirt was the widest he had ever seen, he couldn't even see her feet. He was worried she was going to trip or get her skirt caught in something, but she glided across the carpet without issue. The corset was tight against her body, but left her shoulders and back bare. Though she showed no cleavage, he liked how it hugged her. Her breasts seemed to be a small fraction larger than he remembered; was it a push up bra? No, there was no strap. And why was he thinking such lewd thoughts at this moment?! He took his eyes off her figure and looked at the headdress and veil that only lightly covered her face. Naruto could still see her make-up underneath. To put it simply, Sakura was beautiful and stunning beyond belief.

Soon, Kakashi brought her up to the altar across from Naruto. Without saying a word, Kakashi squeezed his shoulder. Naruto could tell by his smile alone, Kakashi was proud of them. The two were finally face to face. Naruto's heart raced, yet he couldn't help but smile at Sakura. Sakura looked up to him, also smiling in spite of her own nervousness. "Hey." She whispered.

"Hey yourself." Naruto said. "You look beautiful."

Sakura, despite herself, looked away, slightly blushing ,and smiling. "I would hope so. You look very handsome too."

The priest then began his sermon; most of it went over the couple's heads. They just looked at each other, just happy to be there in the moment. Then, came the vows. Naruto decided to go first. "Sakura…I think there's nothing I can't tell you that our friends and family don't already know. But, if I must say something, it is that our relationship has always been defined by promises. My promises to make you happy, and your promises to help me with my own troubles and dreams. Neither of us lived up to that perfectly, but I think the fact we have both tried our best, beyond what anyone would expect, speaks volumes. From seeing how you were as a chunin and beyond, to how many lives you saved, you inspired me to never keep reaching for the sky. Sakura-chan, I promise to provide for you, protect you and love you how you want. All I ask from you, is to let me know you're happy. 'Cause that will make us both happy."

It was now Sakura's turn. "Naruto…I know we did not get off on the best start. And yet, you always stood by me and fought for my sake. I began to improve myself, at first as a gesture of gratitude. But as I got to know you, I realized that you are one of the most driven and selfless men I had ever met. You carry such heavy burdens that no one should shoulder on their own. It is my wish to help you carry those burdens, not because I pity you. Not because I owe you. I am asking you to share your life with mine, and I promise no matter what our happiness will continue to grow." She paused to let that sink in. She could tell by the look in Naruto's eyes that he was touched by her words. "On another note, many among our family and friends think I used to have someone else in mind whenever I envisioned this moment. I wish to declare to you and anyone here who may still doubt, that is not entirely true. I may have been attracted to cool, mysterious boys…but what I wanted was a man who has a kind heart, who never gives up, and can change everything around him for the better. Please, never doubt that you're the one or good enough for me. You have proven yourself to be what I always wanted and so much more. I am proud to be here on this altar with you." At this point, both the groom and the bride had tears falling from their eyes.

To his surprise, the priest asked the audience if anyone "objected" to the wedding. Naruto's heart skipped a beat, but to his relief, the audience remained silent. He was then instructed to present the ring. Shikamaru gave it to him, and Naruto gently slid it over her ring finger.

"You may kiss the bride." Naruto carefully lifted the lace veil to fully reveal her angelic face. Naruto leaned in, and the two shared their kiss. Though Naruto was initially hesitant to display such affection in front of everyone, at that moment he cared nothing about what they thought. He just enjoyed the tenderness, knowing that Sakura was his for the rest of his life, and he was hers. Judging by the clapping, it seemed everyone was as happy as they were.

Naruto led his new wife out of the temple, as everyone threw confetti their way. "I love you." Naruto whispered.

"Tell me something I don't know." Sakura smiled as she leaned against Naruto's shoulder.

"Uh…mantis will bite the heads off their mate?"

"I already knew that." Sakura chuckled, tapping his shoulder. "Forget I said anything. Love you too." Sakura placed a quick peck on his cheek.

"Onto the reception?" Naruto asked.

"Get the kids first."

"Mommy!" The two shouted as they ran towards her.

"Hey!" Sakura smiled, leaning down to give them a giant bear hug. "Okay, climb onto Daddy's back!" The twins did so without hesitation.

"Okay, hold on tight!" Naruto scooped up Sakura, and they were all off, Naruto jumping across the rooftops.

The reception was set in a training area, tarps covering a thing of tables and seats, the guests beginning to pour in. One in particular looked around for a certain red-head. Yuji wore a standard suit, looking at his watch. "Waiting for the bride and groom?"

Yuji looked to see Iori walk up to him, wearing a maroon dress that hugged her body, similarly colored flats and her red hair tied in a bun. Yuji's eyes widened. "Wow. You look amazing." He breathed without hesitation.

His statement stunned Iori, and she blushed. "Uh, thank you." She said as she twirled a strand of hair. "But you didn't answer my question."

"Remember that call I made? That's what I'm waiting for." His eyes widened as he looked at the edge of the forest. "Ah, here they are!"

Iori looked, and her hands went to her mouth. "I-is that-?"

"Sh!" Yuji said. "It's Sakura's surprise!"

Naruto and Sakura took their seats at the head table, admiring the guests. "I never thought this would ever come true." Naruto breathed.

"Us?" Sakura asked, happy but sad Naruto could doubt such a thing.

"Not so much now, no." Naruto assured her. "It's just, I never thought we would ever have this many people to celebrate with us."

"Now that you mention it, you're right. I never imagined my wedding to have this many people either. Plus two."

Naruto looked to his twins at a smaller table, playing with crayons with some of the other children. "Sorry." Naruto chuckled, scratching his chin. "Guess I couldn't wait before this."

"Well, I'm not complaining" Sakura smiled. "I think I like the idea of my children being there to see my happiest moment."

Naruto rubbed her hand. "Yeah, I think I rather love it too."

Kakashi then came up to their table. "Everything okay, you two?"

"Better than okay." Naruto answered, lifting Sakura's hand, displaying her new ring. "Much better."

"Glad to hear it." Kakashi smiled, this time out in the open. Naruto felt a little weirded out by clearly seeing his teacher's face, but he was not about to make a scene. He knew that Sakura was going to reprimand him on many things in the future; no way in hell he was going to make the most important day of their lives one of them. "Anyway, I think it's time to get everything ready." Kakashi said, rubbing his hand. "Shall we begin?"

"Let's!" They said.

Naruto ringed his glass with a spoon. "Everyone, I want to thank you all for coming!" He paused as he saw everyone give him their full attention. "We have both made many friends over the years, but I could never imagined just how much of a family we would go on to make, blood or not. We both went through hard times, but seeing you all hear shows us no matter what comes, we have nothing to fear. I…I don't have anything else to say; no words can truly express our gratitude. So, thank you."

Everyone clapped. "And now, the cake!"

The baker brought out the largest cake Naruto had ever seen, like a tower of pure white dough and sugar. "When you told me we'd have cake, I thought it was two small pieces." Naruto whispered, feeling overwhelmed.

"Don't worry, dear. Our friends are going to help." Sakura then took a knife. "We have to cut the cake first."

"Oh." Naruto said. "Okay." Sakura cut up a slice, as did Naruto. He looked shock when she lifted a slice towards him. "Wait…we're feeding each other? Here?"

"That's how they do it." Sakura looked serious. "But, I know this may be a bit embarrassing for you. We don't have to do this if you don't want to."

Naruto then looked to the audience. Shikamaru smiled at him, as did many others in silent approval. Naruto sighed, and smiled. "Personally, I don't care what others think. But it seems they approve. So…" Naruto opened his mouth. "…Ahm reavvy!" He tried to say.

Sakura just gave him her usual stink-eye as she gave an evil smile. "Oh, you are going to regret that."

She gently moved it towards him…and then smeared it across his face. "Wha-?!"

"Hahaha!" Sakura laughed. "Sorry, dear! It's customary for the bride and groom to do this in this kind of wedding!"

Naruto got out of his stupor, and took a slice of his own as he looked at Sakura slyly. "You shouldn't have put groom in that sentence, Sakura-chan!"

Naruto practically threw it at her as he smeared her face too. "Ah, I wasn't ready!" She laughed.

Everyone else also had a good laugh as they wiped each other down. "Seriously, though, Sakura-chan." Naruto said. "This is delicious."

"I think so too."

"Hanami?" Shinachiku asked his sister as they looked on.

"Yeah?"

"How come when we play with our food, Mommy gets mad, but it's okay when they do it?"

Hanami sighed. "I don't get grown-ups." She then grasped Shina's hands. "Shina, let's never grow up!"

"Yes!"

Everyone ate and drank, simply chatting amongst themselves. Mrs. Haruno sat at a table joined by Tsunade and Jiraiya. As she got the abridged version of their students' adventures, she was filled with regret for not paying closer attention to her daughter's endeavors. Yet she was also filled with pride after hearing her many accomplishments. "You have done an amazing job, teaching my daughter all you know. I hope she has proven herself to be a worthy successor."

"Oh, she's done more than prove it." Tsunade smiled. "She blew my expectations right out of the water!" She and Jiraiya shared a joyous laugh.

Before more could be said, a well-dressed man came by her. "Excuse me ma'am, there is a gentleman here to see you."

Mrs. Haruno looked at him with confusion. "Pardon me?"

"He would like to speak with you." He gestured outside. "He's outside by the oak tree."

Mrs. Haruno looked to the tree, and found a familiar silhouette. Turning to the two sanin, saying "Excuse me." The two looked at her questionably as she walked out.

Jiraiya simply nodded to Tsunade, the command need not to be given verbally. Putting his fingers together, he disappeared in a cloud of smoke. Tsunade remained in her seat, dangerously narrowing her eyes towards the outside.

As everyone enjoyed the festivities, Naruto and Sakura took notice of Yuji and Iori unravelling a large white screen in front of them. They set it down, and just stood by it. "Yuji, whatcha got there?" Naruto asked.

"Oh, we just added some music…and then some." Yuji winked.

It then began. A familiar tune played, as the bass got going. Then the vocals kicked in. "Hey, isn't this-?"

"Maroon Gou?" Sakura finished, smiling. "It is."

"Yeah." Naruto said. "Your favorite." Naruto's mind wandered as he would catch Sakura dancing to their music. Usually in her underwear. "Not now." He told himself. He took Sakura's hand, and leaned into her. "It's a nice song."

"You're going to love the chorus."

Seeing the two relax into each other, Yuji grinned. "I think it's about time to spice things up a bit."

Iori grinned back. "Oh man, Sakura's going to freak."

As Yuji and Iori approached the screen and suddenly tore it off, revealing the actual band with all their instruments. The newlyweds eyes widened. "Sugar!" The lead singer sang. "Gomen!"

Sakura completely freaked out, getting out of her chair and clapping, jumping, as she did. "I think we unleashed her inner fan girl." Naruto thought nervously.

Sakura regained her sanity for a moment, and pulled Naruto out of his seat by the hand. "Come on, Naruto!" Sakura dragged her husband onto the floor. Others also got up to dance, making Naruto feel a little bit more at ease. Taking both his hands, Sakura smiled. "Nervous?"

"A little." Naruto admitted. "We never had to dance at Shikamaru's or Hinata's wedding."

"We've danced before." Sakura told him.

"Uh, I don't think the dances we did before are…appropriate for this venue."

Sakura gritted her teeth again while trying to maintain her smile, as a vein popped in her forehead. She squeezed his hands, enough to put enough pressure to give him a warning. "Naruto…just shut up and dance with me."

"Yes dear." Naruto quickly squeaked.

Mrs. Haruno quickly scurried outside, the wedding tent still within her sight. At the tree, she saw a single man in silhouette standing by it. "You look well." A familiar voice said. He then stepped into the light.

"Kaisen?" Mrs Haruno asked, shocked at seeing her husband before her again.

"I've tried to contact you." He said, stepping closer. "Did you not receive my letters?"

Mrs. Haruno began to tremble slightly. "I never read them."

Kaisen breathed through his nostrils. She could see the fury in his eyes, but did not react. "I heard we are grandparents now."

"We are."

"And it is only just now that our daughter is getting married?" Mrs Haruno remained silent, but he took that as an affirmative. "Should have known. As soon as she left, she would prance around like a harlot…"

"Don't you dare." Mrs. Haruno hissed. "Not in front of me. Not anymore."

Kaisen stared at her, stunned at her defiance. He seemed to be trying to calm himself down. "You're right; that was uncalled for. I'm sorry." Mrs Haruno was definitely shocked to hear him apologize. "Regardless, it seems you have both done well for yourselves..."

"What do you want?" Mrs. Haruno asked.

"I think it is time we get together again. I…I want to work things out."

Mrs. Haruno was shocked, seemingly doing nothing as he approached her. His hand inched towards hers. For a moment, she seemed to relent…but at the last possible second, she drew her hand back. "No." She said.

"What was that?!"

"No. I don't want to work things out between us. There's nothing to work out between us!" She raised her voice. "We got married because our parents arranged it, and we wanted to please them! There was once another I loved, and out of honor I let him go for you! I tried to get to know you, but it seems you resented the marriage too! Were you not interested? Did you have to let go of someone else? Either way, I tried to make something out of the marriage, but you wouldn't try to reach out to me! When Sakura was born, you wouldn't acknowledge her simply because you wanted a son! And when the doctors told you I could never have more children, you resented her! And you know what the worst part is?!" She yelled, beginning to cry. "I began to resent her too! I let myself blame her for our troubles when she should have been the treasure that held us together! And we treated her like a curse!"

Kaisen growled, his hand clenching. He lifted it towards her, growling "You-!"

Suddenly, Jiraiya appeared behind Mrs. Haruno, crossing his arms. He said nothing, but the communication was clear between them. Mrs Haruno, though shaken, continued. "Why do you do this? Why do you want something so desperately that you hate?!" Mrs Haruno's tears flowed freely. "I want to hate you. But I just pity you now. You desperately want happiness, but you don't know where else to find it!"

Kaisen's eyes widened. He truly seemed stunned. "Megumi…"

"Don't!" She held up her hand. "We've been divorced for a couple of years now. I think it will be the best for both of us in the long run. You had all the chances in the world to make us a family, but you were so stuck in the past." Megumi shed one last tear. "The only good from our marriage was Sakura. She's the only reason I will never say this relationship should have never happened. So for that…I thank you. I hope after all this, you find the happiness you really wanted." With that, she walked away, Jiraiya trailing after her.

Kaisen just stood there, stunned, seemingly oblivious to the tear he shed.

Megumi was struggling to hold back her tears as she walked back towards the tent. "Will you be alright?" Jiraiya came up behind her.

Megumi nodded, wiping a tear with a handkerchief. "I'll be fine in a moment. Just…just don't tell Sakura. Not yet. I don't want to ruin the happiest night of her life." Jiraiya nodded in understanding.

Back in the tent, the band finished their performance. Sakura wasn't the only one who had a great time dancing, as all the women dragged their men onto the dance floor. Even Temari who was getting heavily pregnant again danced like their was no tomorrow and brought Shikamaru with her despite his protests. Everyone was tired but had the time of her life. Of course, being as it was HER wedding night, Sakura had to get a photo of them with her in the center. To his surprise, Naruto didn't feel jealous. Sakura may have been a fan, but that was all she felt for them.

She smiled for the camera, pushing out both her hands in the peace sign with the biggest grin on her face as the musicians gathered around her. After it was done, Sakura bowed. "Thank you so much! You already made tonight more perfect than I could have imagined!"

"Our pleasure." The lead singer bowed. To Naruto's surprise, he actually came up to him as well and bowed. "Hey, congratulations! I can tell she's a keeper!"

Naruto chuckled nervously. "Isn't she, though?" Despite everyone's exhaustion, many of the female guests still screamed for autographs as they tried to hurry their way out.

Naruto and Sakura plopped onto two seats, their kids clinging to her skirt. "Oh man!" Sakura breathed. "I never expected this!"

"Yuji's known for his surprises!" Naruto breathed. "I guess that's it for dancing!"

"Yeah, I don't think anything else can top this!" Sakura said in agreement.

Iori downed a glass of water. "Glad you had a good time!" Yuji said to her. "I was surprised it went as well as it did! I…" That was then he noticed Iori's face. She looked…mad? "Uh, Iori?" Yuji asked nervously. "Is everything alright?" Based on past experiences, whenever he asked that of Iori, the answer was usually a resounding NO.

"Depends." Iori said. "I had plans for my own surprise for the newly weds."

Yuji's eyes widened. "Oh no…Iori, I'm so sorry!" Yuji bowed. "I didn't think about that! What were you going to do?"

Iori sighed. "Well, I guess there's no helping it now. I may not be able to measure up to a professional band, but damn it, I planned it, I'm doing it!" Setting the glass down, she walked up to the stage.

"Oh man, I think you took all the dance out of me, Sakura-chan." Naruto breathed as he leaned back in his chair. "I don't think I have another one in me."

"Yeah." Sakura said, fanning herself. "Sorry, I got a little carried away. I never thought in a million years I'd be at a concert with my favorite band, especially on my wedding night!" Sakura took a deep breath. "Let's just sit here for a while."

Suddenly, the music began again. But instead of the the poppy, upbeat tune of the band, this one was slower and more melodic. The two looked to see Iori up on the stage, singing into the mic. "Ohh, ohhh…" she began. "Nah nah nah…"

They were immediately entranced by her voice. Never in a million years did they imagine Iori have such a beautiful singing voice. Naruto, not taking his eyes off her, held out his hand to Sakura, which she accepted, and the two rose.

Koko ni aru no wa kimi ga imama de erenda michi no

Iori continued to sing, while Naruto and Sakura held each other's hands, slowly twirling around. Naruto buried his head in the side of Sakura's neck, unable to hold back his tears of joy. Sakura did the same.

Kotae tachiyo hora jishin motte susumeba ii

Through it all, Yuji just stared at Iori, completely stunned. He was always certain of the way he felt about her. But tonight, it felt like those feelings were magnified by a thousand. A statistical impossibility, in his mind.

Totemo shizen nano amaegari no asufaruto

Niji ga kakaru you ni

Naruto and Sakura looked at each other, feelings known but needing to have those feelings expressed.

Lonely kaze ga fuite

Feeling kigatsuita yo

Kotae wa doko ni mo naikedo

Call me wakatteru wa

With you ai wa itsumo

Atae au moni

They leaned in for a kiss as Iori said "For you…"

Iori's song was having a profound effect on the other couples present. Even Temari, who hid her grouchiness during the wedding and reception, softened up and got clingy with Shikamaru. When the song ended, the guests broke into applause.

Iori, suddenly conscious of herself, blushed and hurried off the stage. "Oh kami!" She thought, gripping her racing heart. "What was I thinking?!"

"Iori." Yuji said. "That…that was amazing."

"Please don't tease me." Iori said, raising her hand. "I'm not in the mood for jokes."

"I'm not joking." Yuji said, slightly hurt. "I never imagined you had such a beautiful voice. Even if you didn't, what you did was really brave. I think…no, I KNOW you are now the highlight of tonight. Just look at them." Iori looked to Sakura laughing and crying with Naruto, who stroked her hair. The whole scene was incredibly moving. "I'm real proud of you, you know that?" Yuji said, squeezing her hand. Iori could only look Yuji in the eyes as he leaned in for a gentle kiss on the lips. As he pulled away, Yuji smiled as Iori's eyes began to water.

He then looked past her, with a more serious look on his face. "Excuse me. I'll be right back." Yuji stood up and walked away.

Iori stared as he got up to left "Yuji…what's going on?"

Yuji stepped out of the tent and went into the forest. He caught a glimpse of something earlier by the tree, and needed to confirm something. Up close, he got a clearer look. Sighing, he said "I thought that was you." Shiguri stepped out from behind the tree. He had grown, become a real lady-magnet, not that his attitude did him any favors. He maintained his spiky hair, pretty much what everyone expected him to grow into when he became a man.

Yuji gave him a small smile. "You know, you could at least come in and say hi to the newlyweds. You're not dressed for the occasion, but they'll be glad to see you nonetheless."

Shiguri adjusted his shades. "I was hoping you would tell them I wish them well for me. And I hope they enjoy this period. It's not going to last." Shiguri then disappeared into the darkness.

Yuji came back in and took a seat next to Iori. Iori then touched his hand. "Yuji, is anything wrong?"

Yuji smiled for her. "No, nothing's wrong." "Not yet." "Everything's fine." He tried to reassure her, stroking her hand.

Iori wished she could believe him. But she could see his smile was fake.

The reception had finally come to an end, and all the guests went home. Meanwhile, Naruto and Sakura returned home with their kids, Yuji and Iori accompanying them. It was upon them: Naruto and Sakura were about to start their honeymoon; all they would be taking were two small suitcases with essentials. They didn't even change out of their wedding clothes, as Naruto was able to get them to their destination and back in an instant.

"You sure?" Naruto asked, stroking her hand. "We can postpone this…"

"No. We can't." Sakura squeezed his hand, smiling. "We can get there and back here, so if there's a problem or an emergency, there will be no hassle."

Naruto began to blush slightly, and suddenly embraced her in a hug. "Ah!" Sakura squeaked in surprise and joy. Sakura pushed him back so she could kiss him full on the lips. "My, eager, aren't we?"

"Sorry." Naruto chuckled, scratching his head. "I didn't mean to-"

"Just a few minutes. Control yourself until then." Sakura put a finger on his lips, also blushing. Naruto really had no idea what was going on with her bodily reactions, or how much she needed this. "Come on." She urged him on. "We need to say goodbye to the kids."

"WHY DO THEY HAVE TO GO?!" Hanami cried, Shinachiku crying with her. Yuji and Iori tried their best to calm them down as they hugged and patted them.

"You know, I see why most people argue to have kids AFTER marriage." Yuji whispered to Iori as he hugged Shina.

"Well, do you have an idea how to describe a honeymoon to a couple of three year olds without traumatizing them for life?" Iori whispered back. They were so hysterical it seemed they didn't hear them. "Shina, we talked about this. You two can't go with them. We're staying with you."

"I WANNA GO WITH MOMMY!" Shina cried.

"I wish you could." Sakura and Naruto came down the stairs, ready to go.

"Sorry." Yuji sighed. "We're normally really good with these two."

"Oh, trust me." Naruto chuckled. "You haven't seen these two at their worst." Naruto walked over. "Hey." Naruto whispered. "Come here, you two." The couple embraced their children. Shinachiku was more of a momma's boy, and Hanami with time seemed to gravitate towards her father. "I get it. Neither of you want to be alone. I know it seems like I only just got here, but I promise you, I'm not leaving with Mommy for long."

"What if something happens?" Hanami sniffed, seeming to calm down.

"If it gets dangerous, or you two are in trouble, we'll come right back." Naruto assured her, rubbing her head. "We're good at escaping sticky situations."

"More like fight our way out of sticky situations, but they don't need to know that for now." Sakura thought. "I'm sorry it feels like we're leaving you out." Sakura told them, kissing each of them on the forehead. "This is something Daddy and I have to do as a married couple now. But I'm not leaving, not forever. I'll be back before you know it, and we'll truly be a family then." Hanami sniffed, and went over to hug her mother. Naruto did the same with Shina.

"Hey." Naruto said. "I understand you're both scared we'll be gone forever. I know it took too long for me to meet you both. But I promise you, we will come back." The two toddlers eventually calmed down, and nodded in reluctant acceptance.

Yuji and Iori gently pulled them back. "We'll take good care of them." Yuji said. "You two go ahead and give them a brother."

"A brother?" Shinachiku asked, his mood completely changed as his curiosity overcame him. "We're going to get a brother?"

Naruto and Sakura looked like something went down the wrong tube. "Uh, that's a big maybe…" Naruto tried to say.

"We're going to get a brother!" Shinachiku shouted, raising his arms up.

"No, I wanna a sister!" Hanami protested.

"M-maybe in a few months! Okay!" Sakura stuttered. After everyone calmed down, Sakura kissed them both. "Be good to Yuji and Iori, okay! We'll be back soon!" She reiterated. Though the two twins looked sad, they were calm enough to wave bye bye to them.

With that, Naruto and Sakura made the standard shinobi signs, and disappeared. "Where'd they go?" Shinachiku asked, both curious and concerned.

"To where they needed to go." Yuji answered. "It's just going to be us for awhile. How about some ice cream and a movie before we put you two to bed?"

Naruto and Sakura arrived at their destination in a flash, the seal taking them to Myobokuzan. "So…" Naruto began. "Welcome to my home, away from home." Naruto said. "Or my training grounds, I should say?"

Sakura looked around. Even though it was late at night, she could see the mountains and forest in the distance. "You trained here?" Wow…" Sakura's shoulders slackened slightly. "I can see why you would like it here…"

Naruto gently embraced her from behind. "Hey." He said. "I didn't stay because I liked it here. I stayed so I could discover my new powers, and be together with you again."

Sakura nodded in acceptance, and leaned into him. "Sorry, I didn't mean anything by it."

"I know. But you're not wrong. In time, I did come to like it. Now, I just want to enjoy it with you. And one day, the kids too."

Sakura nodded, and pulled him in for a kiss. Naruto picked her up bridal style and took her inside, flicking the lights on. "You…you built this?" Sakura asked.

The cabin was quaint but fully furnished, with all the modern conveniences one would need.

"Ero-senin helped. A LOT, actually." Naruto admitted. "He came up with the blueprints. I did all the hard labor."

"And…this furniture?"

"Jiraiya could come and go as he pleased. I had to stay." Naruto then took her to the bedroom, a comfy king-sized bed waiting for them. Naruto gently set himself on the bed and looked at Sakura lovingly. This time, he came in for a gentle kiss.

"Wow…" Sakura breathed. "This is actually happening…"

"Sakura, I just want to let you know I'm not going to force you into anything you don't want to. If you just want to-"

"Naruto." Sakura silenced him with a touch on the lips. "I know you're looking out for my best interests, and I appreciate it. But I love you…and I want you." Sakura leaned into kiss him again, but this was much more intense and sensual than recently. It took Naruto a moment to return it, but he did, however awkwardly. They pulled away, taking a deep breath. "We could never have done this in our house." Sakura breathed. She pulled away from him, looking at him with a strange look in her eyes. "Naruto, answer me honestly. Do you want me?"

"Yes." Naruto replied, his breathing getting huskier. "Badly."

Sakura could only smile at the sight of him. They were about to have the best night of their life in years…

I'm cruel to cut you off from the fun parts, but they will come, I promise.

Before I get to my main observations, I do have something of a question about what's going on in Boruto. I noticed a lot of art of the kid transforming into…something. It's like Boruto is transforming into a Vasto Lorde from Bleach. What's the deal with that?

And then I read somewhere Boruto's favorite color is….pink. Uh…I remember the conspiracy theories back in the day of Boruto and Sarada initially being designed as NS and SK children. Which makes me wonder why this wasn't changed if that was indeed the case…

Anyway, I want to talk a little bit about Kishi's new manga, Samurai 8. Obviously, I did't have high hopes coming off from the ending of Naruto and his process of creating the series (which was literally doing what his editors told him to do). I was curious, though, and thought I would give it a read when it was over.

Well, looks like I'll be doing that a lot sooner than I thought. Samurai 8 has been cancelled, with just 5 volumes/43 chapters to its name. The manga sold around 12k a piece. That's…terrible. Naruto regularly sold for hundreds of thousands, even millions of copies per volume. I don't want to claim this is a sign that the Japanese have no faith in Kishimoto or are holding a grudge…but I can't think of any other explanation. I don't wish anyone ill on their creative endeavors, but I think Kishimoto deserved this. When you spend 15 years of writing a decent story only to topple it on its head for a sequel no one asked for (and that you had no interest in writing), it's going to be hard to regain that trust.

As a result, Kishimoto has taken over the writing on Boruto. I honestly can't decide if that will be a good or bad thing. Given the fact he wanted to move on from Naruto and his new work was scrapped, I honestly don't expect him to be happy about it, so readers beware!

I think Kishimoto should apologize. Not just for the pairings, but for basing his writing on trends or the closest voices in the room. It could go a long way to repairing those bridges he burned.

That's all for now. I'll see you all next time.