A/N: Let us dive right in, shall we?

- masayume

Chapter 37. Frisson

The streets of Hamachi were alive with the energy of the evening rush. Merchants, their faces tired from a long day's work, packed away their wares in colorful crates, their hands moving quickly and with purpose. Villagers, some with baskets full of fresh produce, others with bundles of cloth or tools, hurried home as the sky turned a deep blue. The air smelled faintly of fresh-baked bread and the wood smoke from a nearby hearth.

Sakura's steps were measured, steady, and unhurried, her feet carrying her through the bustling streets while her mind drifted, a constant whirl of thoughts. She could feel the weight of the day's deliberations still pressing on her shoulders, and though her body was moving, her thoughts were far from at ease.

Turning onto a quieter street, the noise of the market fading behind her, her eyes fell on the newly constructed infirmary. Sakura knew that this place wasn't just a symbol of progress—it was the embodiment of Kazuo and Hikari's tireless efforts. They had poured their hearts into creating a sanctuary of healing, and it was thriving.

From the open windows, the soft murmur of voices and the occasional burst of laughter drifted out. Sakura couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips. Inside, she imagined, Sachi was likely absorbed in her daily duties, now a healer in her own right, with over five years of instruction under Sakura's watchful eye.

Sachi had blossomed so much. Though still young, there was a quiet confidence about her that reminded Sakura of herself at that age, when she had been eager to make her own mark. Watching Sachi grow in her chosen path, carving out her place in this new world, was a joy. But it also reminded Sakura of how quickly time passed, how the moments slipped through her fingers like sand.

"Sakura-san!" A soft voice broke her reverie.

Sakura turned to see one of the infirmary aides standing in the doorway, her face bright with recognition. She waved in return, offering a smile, but didn't stop her stride.

"I'll visit later Akiko-chan," she called back, her voice warm but firm. "I'm going to check on Ino-san now."

The aide nodded and stepped back inside the building, leaving Sakura to continue on her way. Her pace quickened now, her footsteps falling in rhythm with the cool evening air that was beginning to settle over the town. The clamor of the market slowly faded behind her, replaced by the soft rustling of wind through the trees. The path leading to Ino and Shisui's home was enveloped in the shade of towering maple trees, their branches swaying gently, casting intricate patterns of dappled light and shadow on the ground.

Sakura's thoughts wandered to her dear friend. The birth of Uchiha Masamune had been a bright beacon of hope amidst the turmoil of reconstruction and uncertainty. Yet, Sakura knew how fragile those moments of peace could be. In times like these, when the world felt burdened with unrest, even joy seemed delicate, easily swept aside by the looming clouds of conflict.

Before long, Sakura arrived at the modest Yamanaka-Uchiha home. The small garden outside bloomed with life, a burst of color against the encroaching dusk. Flowers of all kinds, carefully tended despite the demands of the day, added to the serene atmosphere. The sweet scent of jasmine mixed with the earthy fragrance of soil, grounding Sakura in the familiar comfort of her friend's home. She paused for a moment, taking in the tranquility before raising her hand to knock softly on the door.

"Ino?" she called, her voice warm and inviting, carrying across the threshold.

The sound of light footsteps echoed from within, and the door opened to reveal Ino, her face glowing with the radiance of new motherhood. Though her eyes were tired, they sparkled with a quiet joy.

"Sakura," Ino greeted, her voice thick with affection as she stepped aside to welcome her in. "I'm so glad you came."

Sakura smiled, stepping into the warmth of the home. "Of course, I am happy to check on you and my nephew." Her eyes drifted to Ino's arms, where the soft, rhythmic sound of Masamune's breaths could be heard.

Ino smiled, nodding gently as she glanced toward the cradle by the window. "Masamune's napping. He's been a little fussy today, but I think he just needs time to adjust."

Sakura's heart softened at the sight of her friend, and her gaze was full of understanding. "Of course. It's all such a big change, I remember those first few months. But he's lucky to have you as his mother."

Ino's smile widened, her expression filled with quiet gratitude. For a brief moment, the weight of the outside world seemed to disappear, leaving only the warmth of friendship. "Thank you, Sakura. I don't know what I'd do without you."

In the shadowy halls of Kusamachi's fortress, a suffocating tension hung thick in the air. The chamber, dimly lit by flickering candles, reeked of old wood and burning incense, the faint scent doing little to conceal the underlying rot of ambition that had festered within these walls. Shimura Danzō stood at the head of a long, low table, his imposing figure draped in a dark cloak that seemed to absorb the light around him. His steely gaze swept over the room, settling on his most trusted operatives, who sat in a taut silence, waiting for his command.

Saizō, an aging man with a face deeply etched by the trials of time, leaned forward, his eyes shadowed with concern. His voice was rough, worn by years of experience and worry. "I haven't heard from Hirosuke in over a year," he muttered, his words laced with unease. "If he's still alive, he's gone dark. If not..." He trailed off, the weight of his unspoken words hanging heavily in the air, casting a chilling silence over the gathering like a thick fog.

Danzō's gaze cut through the thick tension like a blade, his eyes cold and unyielding, lips curling into a sneer of cruel dismissal. "Hirosuke's silence does not concern me," he said, his voice as sharp and unforgiving as the edge of a blade. "What concerns me is the relentless rise of Hamachi. That is exactly what we sought to prevent… Uchiha and Senju uniting, strengthening their position. Now, they stand as a far more formidable enemy, and it has taken us years to muster the forces needed to confront them. Five years!" His voice grew cold, his frustration palpable. "Had Orochimaru acted swiftly, instead of allowing them room to expand, we wouldn't be in this mess. Madara's bastard daughter's death… that should have never happened. And now, they sit behind the walls of that city they've built, convinced they've beaten me." His lips twisted, a sneer of cold defiance creeping into his expression. "No... Not yet." The bitterness in his words was undeniable, each one dripping with a raw, festering sense of failure that tainted the air around them.

Saizō grumbled under his breath, hesitant to directly challenge his leader but still feeling the need to voice his thoughts. "But now, at least you've got more than just the Grass and mercenaries at your disposal. You've secured the forces from the Land of Waves as well, thanks to the deal you struck with the local daimyō—supplies of opium and women in exchange for additional two thousand warriors. No one can stand in your way now… You'll bring that city to its knees just as quickly as they built it."

Danzō stared at him, unblinking, his gaze a silent calculation of possibilities and consequences. His mind was always working, every move on the board meticulously planned.

To his left, Daichi, a stocky man with a calculating expression, nodded in agreement. "The mercenaries have vacated Nishinomaki and gathered here, just as you ordered. We have the numbers to mount a significant offensive. Ten thousand strong."

Danzō's finger tapped the table in rhythm, his mind processing the information with a cold, detached precision. "We do," he said, his voice steady, "but I don't intend to use brute force alone. They'll be expecting that. We need to play this game differently. Let's test their response. We will feign an attack on Niwamachi."

A murmur of surprise rippled through the men, but Danzō raised a hand to silence them.

"Their council will be forced to respond, scattering their forces and exposing their weaknesses," Danzō continued, his tone unwavering. "Once they make their move, we will strike at Hamachi directly, before they can reorganize."

Across the table, Adachi, the former head of Niwamachi, shifted uneasily in his seat. His eyes darted between the others, his discomfort palpable. "If I may, Lord Shimura," he began hesitantly, "Hamachi's leaders are no fools. If the deception is poorly executed, they will see through it immediately. And Orochimaru—"

Danzō's cold gaze snapped to Adachi, cutting him off mid-sentence. "You will remain silent, Adachi," he commanded sharply, his words like a slap. "Your poor judgment is what condemned Niwamachi. As for Orochimaru... he will do as he promised," Danzō added, his voice dripping with disdain. "Kabuto will ensure that."

From the shadows, Kabuto stepped forward, his expression as calm and unreadable as ever. His pale hands were folded neatly behind his back, and the glint of his glasses reflected the low light. "I will locate him," Kabuto assured, his voice smooth, almost disinterested. "Orochimaru has his own ambitions, but he understands the importance of this alliance. He will fulfill his part of the deal."

Danzō's eyes narrowed. "And if he doesn't?" he asked, his voice icy, laced with a threat that hung heavy in the room.

Kabuto's lips curved into a thin, almost imperceptible smile. "Then I will handle him myself."

A faint nod from Danzō was the only acknowledgment Kabuto needed. The plan was set into motion.

Danzō's gaze swept over the gathered men, his voice low but heavy with conviction, each word cutting through the tension like a sharpened blade. "This is not just about controlling Kusamachi or Niwamachi," he said, his tone unwavering. "This is about eradicating the threats that have plagued us for far too long. Orochimaru will deal with the Uchiha and the Senju. As for Sakura Haruno... she must be brought to me—alive. She is an asset, and we will treat her as such. I'm certain my contacts will pay a handsome sum to gain access to her, and that alone will unravel Itachi."

Saizō and Daichi exchanged uneasy glances but remained silent, knowing better than to challenge Danzō's will.

Danzō straightened, his posture rigid, his voice rising with unyielding authority, each word laced with the weight of command. "We move as planned. Kabuto, locate Orochimaru. Saizō, ensure our forces are prepared to deploy at a moment's notice. Once they are ready, you and I will lead them to the Taka Woodlands and establish our camp there. Adachi, you will oversee the preparations for the feigned attack on Niwamachi. Daichi, you will remain here with five hundred men to ensure Kusamachi's protection at all costs. Do not fail me. Any of you." His gaze locked onto each man, his eyes cold and steely, demanding absolute loyalty.

Each man nodded, murmuring their assent before rising and filing out of the room.

As the chamber emptied, Danzō remained standing at the table, his mind racing with plans of conquest and vengeance. The shadows of Kusamachi seemed to grow darker around him, closing in, pressing down with a weight that only he could bear.

"Soon," he muttered to himself, his voice low and filled with cold anticipation. "The Senju, the Uchiha, and their precious Hamachi will crumble. And I will be the one standing amidst the ruins."

The warm rays of the sun filtered through the shoji windows, casting a soft glow on the entangled figures of Itachi and Sakura. Their bare skin, slick with sweat, radiated heat as they gazed deeply into each other's eyes. In that moment, their love and passion was palpable, thick in the air around them.

(CUT SCENE due to adult content - if you wish to read, please do so on AO3)

The two lovers stayed entwined in each other's embrace, their hearts beating in sync as they basked in the afterglow of their love-making. The soft sounds of their breath mingled together in a beautiful symphony, creating an intimate moment that felt like it could last for hours.

"I just want to stay like this... all day," Itachi murmured, his arms wrapped tightly around his wife's form. "I don't think I have the energy for anything else today. Not with the council meeting and helping Kōji build in Ume district..."

Sakura smiled against his chest, her fingers tracing lazy patterns on his skin. "I'm glad my husband still chooses my company above all else," she teased playfully.

Itachi chuckled, his lips finding hers once again in a playful kiss. "Always," he whispered between kisses.

With a heavy heart, Sakura reluctantly began to untangle herself from the warmth of Itachi's embrace. She sat up, her skin still flushed and glistening with sweat from their passionate encounter. "As much as I'd love to stay here all day," she sighed, reaching for her scattered clothes, "I made a promise."

Itachi propped himself up on one elbow, watching her with a mixture of amusement and admiration. The sun filtering through the shoji window illuminated his features in a warm glow, making him look almost ethereal. "To Niwamachi?" he asked, his deep voice sending shivers down her spine.

Sakura nodded, a determined look on her face. "Yes, they're still struggling to rebuild after the latest bandit attack. They burnt down the east side completely. I promised I'd help with the healing efforts." She paused and added with a smile, "and Sachi is coming with me, along with Keisuke and Kagami."

Itachi's brow furrowed slightly as he sat up fully now. "Be careful, Sakura." He couldn't help but worry about her safety.

She leaned down to kiss him again, this time with lingering affection. "I will be careful. Besides, you trained me well, remember?"

A smirk tugged at the corner of Itachi's lips. "I do remember. Very well."

Sakura gathered her belongings with deliberate care, each movement accompanied by the soft rustling of fabric as she slipped into her traveling attire. The familiar feel of her weapons secured to her back were grounding. She paused, taking a deep breath, letting the warmth of the morning air fill her lungs before stepping outside.

In the courtyard, the soft clip-clop of hooves against the gravel road echoed as Sachi waited beside her horse, flanked by two guards. Sachi, now more poised than ever, was dressed in practical traveling clothes: a simple haori and hakama. Her dark hair, which had once been a tangled mass, was now neatly tied back into a loose braid, the ends swaying gently in the morning breeze. The young medic stood tall, an air of determination surrounding her.

Sachi's eyes sparkled with quiet excitement as she noticed Sakura approaching, and beside her, Kagami stood at attention by his horse. The young guard was carefully adjusting the straps on his saddle, his face set in a deep concentration that Sakura recognized all too well. Despite his youth, Kagami had quickly proven himself as someone she could rely on, particularly when it came to the precision of his healing techniques. She'd lost count of the number of times she'd had to reset bones for him, and each time, Kagami had never flinched. His calm and focused nature had made him invaluable during their missions.

Nearby, Keisuke, the older and more experienced of the two guards, stood with an ease that came with years of experience. His broad shoulders were squared, his posture relaxed yet alert, an unspoken sense of reassurance radiating from him. The lines on his face, though weathered, only added to his air of quiet authority. It was clear that he had seen many battles in his time, but his presence now was one of steady calm, a foundation for the younger, more eager members of their group.

Sakura moved toward her own horse, its coat gleaming in the sunlight, and swung herself into the saddle with practiced ease. She adjusted the bow and quiver strapped to her back, the weight of the weapon feeling comforting against her spine. As she settled into the saddle, the familiar pressure of the bow against her back brought with it a sense of readiness, as though she could take on any challenge that awaited them.

"Alright, let's head out," Sakura said.

With a gentle nudge, the group set off, the rhythmic sound of hooves resonating against the streets of Hamachi, marking their departure. The morning was cool, with a crispness to the air that spoke of a new season. The faint scent of dew hung in the air, mingling with the delicate fragrance of cherry blossoms drifting on the wind. The countryside stretched out before them, a tapestry of rolling hills and vibrant greenery, offering a sense of peace that felt both fleeting and precious.

Sachi rode up alongside Sakura, her smile wide and bright as the journey began. "I saw Yoshiro yesterday," she said, her voice light and bubbling with excitement. Her eyes were alight, like someone who had just experienced a thrilling secret.

Sakura glanced at her, arching an eyebrow. "And?" she prompted, a teasing smile tugging at the corners of her lips.

Sachi's grin widened, but her voice grew softer, almost shy. "He was so sweet," she began, her cheeks flushing pink. "He asked me about… how I would feel… if we, well, if we kissed." She paused for a beat, her face turning a deeper shade of red. "He's so gentle… I—"

Sakura let out a soft, amused laugh, shaking her head as she teased, "You're in love, aren't you?"

Sachi's blush deepened, her fingers nervously twining the reins in her hands as she shifted in her saddle. "Maybe just a little," she admitted, her voice small but filled with warmth.

Sakura's expression softened, a knowing smile curling on her lips. "Does Itachi or Sasuke know?" she asked, her tone playful but with a hint of curiosity.

Sachi groaned, raising her hand to cover her face in embarrassment. "Yes, they know of him. They don't know though…that…well you know," she muttered, clearly uncomfortable with the thought. "And I know what you are going to say… don't remind me. Sasuke… well, he's got that whole 'big brother' thing down to an art." She sighed dramatically. "I think he scared Yoshiro half to death."

Sakura laughed at the image of Sasuke's protective instincts. It was a familiar one. "That sounds like Sasuke," she said, shaking her head with fondness. "He just wants to make sure you're safe, Sachi. Don't take it personally."

Sachi gave a playful huff, her cheeks still pink. "Yeah, well, he's too good at it," she grumbled but there was no real irritation in her voice—only affection for her overbearing older brother.

As they continued their journey, the conversation flowed easily between them. Sakura found herself savoring the simplicity of the moment, the easy banter and laughter that came with the comfort of familiar faces. The countryside stretched out around them, the gentle hum of nature in the background as they rode through the vibrant green fields. The distant hills, blanketed in a patchwork of wildflowers, seemed to wave at them in greeting as they passed.

For a fleeting moment, Sakura allowed herself to sink into the rhythm of the ride, her body swaying gently with the horse's movements. The sun cast its warm glow over everything, and the peacefulness of the countryside was like a balm for her soul. It felt like the calm before the storm, but for now, she could embrace the peace. The sound of hooves, the scent of the air, and the easy companionship of her companions were enough to fill her heart with quiet contentment.

In the distance, Niwamachi awaited them, and with it, the work that lay ahead. But for now, Sakura could afford to enjoy the peace, if only for a little longer.

Niwamachi had transformed drastically since Sakura's first visit nearly six years ago. Back then, she had been brought to the city as part of Uchiha Fugaku's entourage for a presentation to the Adachi council. The town, once full of life and bustling energy, now bore the scars of conflict. Its vibrant spirit had been replaced by a quiet, unyielding resolve to rebuild. Most of the clans had left years ago, leaving behind only the Adachi, Nara, and Hyūga. Shimura, having fully relocated his clan to Kusamachi in the Grass, had left nothing behind. In their absence, Niwamachi became a prime target for bandits and troublemakers. The streets were lined with hastily constructed homes, and the air was thick with signs of reconstruction—wooden beams, scaffolding, and unfinished buildings standing as reminders of the ongoing efforts to restore the town.

Now, the Adachi, Nara, and Hyūga clans formed the town's backbone. Their presence was still visible, from the distinct architecture of their homes to the banners fluttering in the wind. The Adachi, once the leading force in the council, had faded into the background, their influence much diminished. The Nara clan brought a sense of quiet wisdom, their warriors helping to rebuild what had been destroyed, while the Hyūga, ever composed, maintained an air of authority. Their warriors acted as security, ensuring that any lingering threats were swiftly dealt with.

Sakura and Sachi made their way to the infirmary, a modest structure that served as the center for healing in the town. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of herbs and disinfectants, and the low hum of conversation was punctuated by the occasional groan of a patient.

Sachi immediately got to work, her gentle hands tending to a child with a fever. Sakura moved to assist an elderly man with a wound that had been improperly treated. As she worked, she felt a sense of pride in how far Sachi had come—her apprentice had blossomed into a skilled healer.

The door to the infirmary swung open, and a familiar voice drawled, "Troublesome place to get injured, huh?"

Sakura turned to see Nara Shikamaru leaning against the doorway, his arm bandaged and a faint smirk on his face. His usual laziness was present in his demeanor, but there was also a sharpness in his gaze that suggested he wasn't here just for idle conversation.

"Shikamaru-san," Sakura greeted, setting aside her tools. "What happened to you?"

"Bandits," he replied, stepping inside. "A group ambushed us on the road from the Sand country. Didn't expect them to be that bold, but I guess desperation makes people reckless."

Sakura gestured for him to sit, inspecting the injury on his arm. "This doesn't look too bad, but it could've been worse. You're lucky they didn't aim higher."

Shikamaru winced as she began cleaning the wound. "Yeah, well, I was a little distracted. Not every day you're traveling with the daimyō's daughter."

"Temari, right?" Sakura asked, raising an eyebrow. "I heard you're marrying her. Congratulations."

"Thanks," he said, though his tone was less enthusiastic than one might expect.

Sachi, who had been listening nearby, couldn't help but ask, "Isn't that a good thing? Marrying into the daimyō's family?"

Shikamaru shrugged. "Temari's amazing, but she's not a firstborn son, so she won't inherit anything. The marriage is more about strengthening alliances than anything else. Politics, you know?"

Sakura finished wrapping his arm and patted his shoulder. "Well, you'll make a great team. And if the daimyō doesn't see her worth, that's his loss. Temari's smart, capable, and strong. Sounds like the perfect partner to me."

Shikamaru's lips quirked into a small smile. "Yeah, she is. I just wish things were simpler."

"Things are rarely simple," Sakura said, standing up. "But you're here now, and you'll make it work. Just don't let the politics get in the way of what's important."

He nodded, his expression thoughtful. "Thanks, Sakura-san. And thanks for patching me up."

As Shikamaru left the infirmary, Sachi turned to Sakura with a curious look. "Do you think he's happy?"

Sakura paused, glancing at the door where he'd just exited. "Happiness is complicated, Sachi. Especially when duty is involved. But Shikamaru's the type to find his own way, no matter how troublesome it gets."

Sachi nodded, her expression contemplative as she returned to her work.

Sakura turned her focus back to the patients, but her thoughts lingered on Shikamaru's words. The challenges of duty and love were something she understood all too well.

The air was sharp and invigorating, the late morning sunlight filtering through the towering trees that framed the edges of the Hamachi training grounds. The leaves shimmered with a faint golden hue as the wind rustled through them, casting dappled shadows on the path below. Itachi moved steadily towards the central courtyard, his usual composed demeanor undisturbed by the weight of his responsibilities. Today, however, there was a slight lightness to his stride—Nozomi had insisted on joining him, her energetic voice weaving through the otherwise tranquil atmosphere.

She skipped ahead of him, her small wooden bow and arrow clutched in her hands—carefully filed for safe use. Itachi couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. "Papa, do you think Grandpa Tobirama will show me how to nock an arrow again?" Nozomi called out, her bright eyes glinting with hope.

Itachi chuckled softly, his voice smooth and warm. "I think he'll be happy just to see you, sweetheart. But if you ask nicely, he might."

Nozomi's face lit up with determination. "But I want to know! I'm going to be a huntress of the woods..." She grinned, her steps quickening as if the very thought had fueled her excitement.

Before they could reach the courtyard, Tobirama Senju appeared in their line of sight, engaged in conversation with Shisui just a short distance from the training circle. In an instant, Nozomi's joyful squeal pierced the air, and with surprising speed, she darted ahead, her small form a blur of motion. "Tobirama-jii!" she cried, her voice bubbling with exhilaration as she launched herself at her grandfather.

Tobirama caught Nozomi mid-flight, his movements smooth and effortless despite his age. His usual stern expression softened at the sight of her, and a rare, genuine smile tugged at the corners of his lips. "And there's my favorite granddaughter," he rumbled, lifting her into his arms with a tenderness that belied his typically gruff demeanor.

Nozomi grinned widely, her excitement overflowing. "I'm your only granddaughter! Of course, I'm your favorite!" She wrapped her small hands in the white strands of his hair, tugging playfully. "Jii-chan, please teach me the nock arrow trick! Please, please, please!" she begged, her voice high-pitched with eagerness, her giggles ringing through the air.

Tobirama's voice was patient but firm as he set her down gently. "Later, perhaps. For now, behave yourself while I speak with your father."

"Fine," Nozomi huffed, though she quickly relented, curling up against his side as she watched the men intently.

Itachi approached, inclining his head respectfully. "Tobirama-sama."

"No need for formalities, Itachi," Tobirama replied with a dismissive wave, still keeping a hand on Nozomi's small head as she began to run in playful circles around the two men, pretending to be a huntress of the woods.

Just as the two older Uchiha were about to exchange words, the sound of footsteps drew their attention. Namikaze Yoshiro appeared, his golden hair catching the sunlight, casting an almost ethereal glow around him as he walked toward them with deliberate strides. His posture was straight, yet the tension in his shoulders was palpable.

He bowed deeply to both Tobirama and Itachi, his expression respectful but slightly strained. "Uchiha-sama, Senju-sama," Yoshiro greeted, his voice steady despite the weight of what he was about to say. "I've come to speak with you about a matter that is very close to my heart."

Itachi raised an eyebrow, his piercing gaze sharpening slightly. "Go on," he prompted, his voice calm but commanding.

Yoshiro hesitated for a brief moment, his blue eyes glancing down before meeting Itachi's again with unwavering resolve. "I wish to formally ask for your blessing to marry Sachi."

Tobirama, ever the observer, folded his arms across his chest, a low hum of approval escaping him as he studied the young man. Nozomi, who had been dancing around in her game, abruptly stopped and looked at Yoshiro with wide, confused eyes. "Yoshiro-chan wants to marry Sachi-chan?" she asked aloud, her tone innocent yet full of genuine surprise, as if she couldn't quite grasp the idea of her older sister becoming a bride.

Itachi's expression remained inscrutable for a long moment, the weight of his role as a father and clan leader settling heavily on his shoulders. His gaze was unflinching as he considered Yoshiro's words. "You're aware of what you're asking, Yoshiro. Marrying Sachi is not just a commitment to her, but to this family. Are you prepared for that?" His voice was low and steady, each word deliberate.

Yoshiro squared his shoulders, his resolve firm as he met Itachi's gaze. "I am," he said, his voice unwavering. "I love her. I would do anything to make her happy and protect her. I understand the responsibility that comes with this union, and I accept it fully."

Itachi studied him intently for a long, silent moment. Then, a subtle, almost imperceptible smile tugged at the corners of his lips, the faintest sign of approval. "Sachi has chosen wisely," Itachi said finally. "You have my blessing."

A visible tension melted from Yoshiro's posture as he exhaled a deep breath, his shoulders sagging with relief. He bowed deeply once more. "Thank you, Uchiha-sama."

Tobirama placed a hand on Yoshiro's shoulder, his sharp eyes softening with approval. "You'll make a fine addition to this family," he said gruffly, his voice carrying an unspoken warmth.

Nozomi, still processing the news, tugged at her father's sleeve with a perplexed expression. "Papa, does this mean Yoshiro-chan will be our family now?" she asked, her voice full of innocent curiosity.

Itachi crouched down to her level, his voice gentle but thoughtful. "Yes, Nozomi. He'll be your uncle-in-law, which means he'll be part of our family."

Nozomi tilted her head, trying to make sense of it. A moment later, she broke into a mischievous grin, a sparkle in her eyes. "Does that mean I can boss him around too?" she asked cheekily.

Yoshiro laughed, kneeling down beside her with a playful expression. "You already boss me around, Nozomi-chan. Nothing will change."

Nozomi's smile stretched wide, clearly thrilled by the idea of continuing her playful domination.

As they began walking back toward the compound, Tobirama leaned in slightly toward Itachi, his voice soft yet sincere. "Sachi has found someone who truly values her strength and cherishes her heart. You've done well guiding her, Itachi."

Itachi nodded, his eyes following Nozomi and Yoshiro as they laughed together, their voices filled with carefree joy. "That's all Sakura," he replied, his voice laced with quiet pride. "Without her, none of this would be possible."

Later.

The bright afternoon sunlight streamed through the window, casting a warm, golden hue over the Yamanaka-Uchiha home. Ino sat propped up against the pillows, Masamune gently nestled in her arms. The faintest smile played on her lips as she gazed down at her son, his tiny fingers wrapping around hers as he dozed peacefully.

Shisui stood by the door, watching the two of them, his heart swelling with pride and love. He had always thought he understood what love meant, but seeing Ino and Masamune together, so small, so precious, made him realize just how much more there was to it. His gaze softened as he approached the bed, his eyes flickering between his wife and their son.

Ino looked up, her exhaustion still visible despite the joy radiating from her. She gave him a tired but warm smile, her hair slightly messy, but she looked radiant in a way only new mothers could. "He's got your eyes," she said quietly, her voice tender, her gaze never leaving Masamune.

Shisui chuckled softly, shaking his head as he moved closer. " I think he's got your smile," he said, brushing a stray lock of hair away from her face. He leaned down to kiss her forehead before glancing back at their son. "You're doing okay, right?" he asked gently, his tone laced with concern.

Ino nodded, but the slight strain in her expression didn't go unnoticed. "I'm fine," she reassured him, though there was a hint of fatigue in her voice. "Just a little tired. But it's all worth it."

Shisui reached over to touch her hand, his gaze softening. "I know you're strong, Ino," he said, his voice quiet but full of sincerity. "But I still want to make sure you're resting when you can."

Ino smiled, squeezing his hand in return. " Sakura checked on us earlier, we're doing good. I'm glad you're here," she said, her voice light, though it carried a deeper warmth. "It feels better, having you here with us."

Shisui's heart melted at her words, and he leaned down to kiss her forehead again, a little more lingering this time. "Always," he whispered. "I'm not going anywhere."

He turned his attention to Masamune, who stirred slightly, his tiny hands grasping at the air. With careful hands, Shisui lifted him from Ino's arms, cradling the baby close. The soft weight of Masamune in his arms felt so fragile yet so comforting. He glanced at Ino, checking for any sign of discomfort as he settled into the chair beside her.

"You sure you're okay? Anything I can do for you?" Shisui asked, his voice tender as he watched her closely.

Ino gave him a small, grateful smile, leaning back into the pillows with a soft sigh. "Maybe just stay with me for a little while longer? I know you're busy with the training grounds… but I do miss my husband more these days."

Shisui nodded, his gaze softening as he shifted Masamune in his arms. "I'm not going anywhere, I promise," he said gently, his eyes flickering between his son and Ino. "You two are my priority. The city's standing, and we're accomplishing more than anyone expected, but I know that doesn't change what matters most." He paused, his expression serious but tender. "I'm sorry if the work pulls me away from you and our boy, but please know that you're always on my mind. There's nowhere I'd rather be than by your side."

Ino's heart swelled with warmth as she watched him—so gentle, so attentive. He was everything she had hoped for in a partner and so much more. "I couldn't ask for more," she whispered softly, her voice full of affection.

Elsewhere.

Naruto sat alone in the sunlit courtyard of the Hyūga estate, his gaze drifting over the carefully tended garden, though his thoughts were far from the peaceful surroundings. The weight of the mission hung heavy on him—his father, Minato, had tasked him with assessing the Hyūga clan's openness to forging a stronger alliance with Hamachi. But as he shifted in his seat, trying to gather his focus, something tugged at the edges of his mind, distracting him. The diplomatic talks seemed distant, somehow irrelevant, as if there was something else—something more urgent—lurking just out of reach.

The past few days had been consumed with meetings and negotiations, yet in the quiet moments between it all, his thoughts kept drifting to one person: Hinata Hyūga.

Naruto admired her, deeply—her calm strength, her quiet grace, the way she carried herself with a modest dignity that was both humbling and captivating. But he knew the delicate balance he had to strike. The Hyūga clan was powerful, influential, their roots running deep in the heart of Niwamachi. Navigating these waters wasn't just about politics; it was about more than just formalities.

He couldn't ignore what had been tugging at his heart for months now.

Naruto let out a frustrated sigh, raking a hand through his messy blond hair. "What the hell am I doing here?" he muttered, his voice tinged with frustration. He wasn't used to thinking this much, to second-guessing his instincts. He had always followed his gut, chasing after whatever came his way. But with Hinata, things felt different. It wasn't just admiration anymore. It was something deeper, something he couldn't ignore—the way her eyes held a quiet strength, the kindness in her every word, the fire that burned just beneath the surface of her composed exterior. She wasn't just another face in the crowd.

She was something more.