Legacies

The tent was quiet now after he broke the chakra cuffs off of her, the only sound being the steady patter of rain against the canvas. Sasuke stood near the entrance, his sword still gripped in his hand, though he no longer needed it. The bodies of the men he had cut down were outside, left for Naruto to deal with. He glanced at Sakura, who hadn't moved from where she had fallen, her back leaning against the side of the tent.

"Are you alright?" Sasuke asked, his voice low and hesitant.

Sakura didn't respond. Instead, she was focused entirely on healing herself, her hands glowing with chakra as they passed over the bruises and cuts scattered across her skin. Sasuke felt a wave of foolishness wash over him. Of course, she wasn't alright. What kind of question was that?

He shifted uncomfortably, unsure of what to do next. His gaze drifted around the tent until it landed on the chest near her horse. It was similar to the one he had brought for their journey, so he knew without asking that her clothes would be inside. She had refused help, but Sasuke couldn't just stand there and do nothing.

Without a word, he moved toward the chest, glancing at her briefly to see if she would object. Sakura's eyes flicked to him, watching him carefully, but she didn't stop healing herself. She didn't stop him either. Sasuke unlatched the chest, opening it to find what he had expected—a nightgown folded neatly on top of the other belongings. Next to it was her sword, placed carefully as if to symbolize the duality of her life: both a princess and a warrior.

He took both items and walked back to her, placing them beside her without a word. Sakura's eyes followed his movements, but she remained silent, still focused on her healing.

"I'll inform Naruto," Sasuke said quietly, standing up straight again. He left without waiting for a response.

Outside, the storm had worsened. The rain poured heavily now, drenching the camp. Naruto was nearby, gathering some of his men to deal with the bodies of the attackers. As soon as he saw Sasuke, his expression darkened.

"Are they...?" Naruto trailed off, already knowing the answer.

"They're dead," Sasuke said flatly, wiping his sword clean of blood before sheathing it. "They attacked Sakura in her tent."

Naruto's face paled, and he swore under his breath. "I didn't recognize them... I swear, Sasuke, I don't know who they were. They're not mine. They must have been rogue—people posing as my guards."

"Does it matter?" Sasuke's voice was sharp. "They're dead. That's what matters."

Naruto winced but nodded. "I'll move the bodies and clean everything up. She doesn't need to deal with this." His face was full of regret, and he shook his head, muttering apologies under his breath. "I'll say sorry a hundred times if I have to. This shouldn't have happened."

"Just leave her alone for the night," Sasuke said, cutting him off. "She told me she wants to be left in peace." I might be lying but no one else should see the princess in that state.

Naruto's face softened. "Yeah... yeah, okay." He sighed, casting one last glance toward Sakura's tent before turning to his men to handle the aftermath.

Sasuke returned to her tent, his footsteps quiet despite the rain and mud outside. By the time he reentered, Sakura looked as though nothing had happened at all. Her face was clean, the rainwater she had collected serving as a makeshift wash, and the bruises and cuts she had sustained were fully healed. She sat upright, composed, her expression blank, as if nothing had ever occurred.

Naruto finished moving the bodies from outside her tent, and the camp had returned to its eerie quiet. Sakura looked up as Sasuke stepped back in, her gaze cold and distant.

"You should go and rest," she said, her voice flat. There was no warmth, no emotion. It was as if the night's events had simply been erased from her mind.

Sasuke stood still, his mind torn between following her instruction and doing what felt right. Against his better judgment, he finally spoke. "I... I can stay."

Sakura looked up at him, her cold mask slipping for just a moment. "Stay?" she repeated, her voice uncertain.

"I'll be on the other side of the tent. Nothing improper," Sasuke clarified, his voice quiet but firm. "Before our last names, I am a prince, and you are a princess, let alone a woman. One should never be treated with that disgusting behavior, and it is my job to protect people from men like that."

Sakura's expression faltered, her cold face breaking as she stared at him in disbelief. Sasuke had never spoken to her with anything close to kindness before. They had barely exchanged words beyond the formalities that their roles required. And yet here he was, offering to help her in her time of need, going against the distant persona he usually maintained.

She swallowed, her eyes softening for the first time that night. "I'm going to stay up the whole night," she said quietly, almost as if trying to return to her usual self. "I'll sleep once we reach the Hyuga clan's territory."

"That's not good for your health," Sasuke responded, his voice carrying a rare hint of concern. "Especially after what you just went through."

Sakura shook her head, her resolve hardening again. "I'm not sleeping, so go on."

Sasuke crossed his arms. "I'm not sleeping either."

For a moment, they stared at each other, tension thick in the air. Finally, Sakura exhaled softly, relenting. "Fine. Stay if wish."

The silence stretched on, and Sasuke found himself hesitating again. His mind had drifted back to what Naruto had asked earlier, about her brother. He had never known Sakura had a brother. It wasn't something people spoke about, at least not in the circles he traveled in. But now, after what had happened, and after seeing her vulnerability, he felt a strange obligation to know more about her.

"Your brother..." Sasuke began, his voice hesitant, careful not to push too hard. "If I may, I thought you were an only child. Did something happen?"

Sakura was quiet for a long moment. She didn't meet his gaze at first, her hands still, the healing chakra long gone. But eventually, she looked up at him, her eyes unreadable. There was something guarded in her expression, but also a hint of resignation, as if she felt compelled to answer because of what Sasuke had done for her.

"His name was Kakashi," she said softly, her voice strained. "He went on a mission many years ago and never returned. His body was never found. I was 15 at the time of his disappearance."

Sasuke absorbed the information. Kakashi. The name carried weight in both Uchiha and Senju circles. He had heard stories of the great Kakashi Senju but never knew he was the heir to the clan. The mystery of his disappearance now made sense, and he understood why Sakura had kept this to herself.

"Who was he after?" Sasuke asked after a pause.

Sakura hesitated, then spoke. "Orochimaru, the leader of Otogakure. But we later learned that Orochimaru was working with someone far more dangerous—an Ōtsutsuki."

The name struck a chord. Sasuke had heard whispers of the Ōtsutsuki, but the details were vague, almost mythical. "An Ōtsutsuki... I've heard of them. There was talk in my clan that someone went after one... Obito. He disappeared and was never seen again."

Sakura looked at him, her eyes shadowed with the weight of her own memories. "Then you know what they're capable of. They're not like us. They can control entire clans, turning them into pawns. Kakashi tried to stop Orochimaru and an Ōtsutsuki, but..." She trailed off, leaving the rest unsaid.

Sasuke thought of Obito, the Uchiha who had vanished in pursuit of something most considered a legend. Now, he saw the parallels between their stories, and it unsettled him. Kakashi, Obito—both disappeared chasing the same elusive, dangerous enemy.

"Orochimaru and an Ōtsutsuki," Sasuke mused quietly. "A formidable alliance. No wonder they..." He didn't finish the thought, but the implication hung heavy in the air.

They sat in silence, the storm outside reflecting the tension within. For the first time since their journey began, Sasuke felt a connection, a shared burden. Two heirs to broken legacies, bound by loss and duty. Something unspoken shifted between them.

Neither of them spoke again that night, but the silence no longer felt so cold.

The night dragged on in silence, the storm outside beginning to lessen as the early hours of the morning approached. Neither Sasuke nor Sakura spoke much. They both remained awake, though the quiet between them wasn't uncomfortable. It was as if they had come to some unspoken agreement not to force conversation. The sound of the rain against the tent was steady, a rhythmic backdrop to the tension that still hung in the air from the earlier attack.

Sasuke occasionally glanced at Sakura, who seemed lost in her thoughts. Her body was still, but there was a sharpness in her gaze, as though she were mentally preparing for whatever came next. She hadn't mentioned the attack since it happened, and Sasuke didn't push her. There was no need. Both of them understood the weight of silence and how it could sometimes be more comforting than words.

As the first light of dawn broke through the clouds, the rain stopped, leaving the world outside damp and quiet. The camp began to stir, with Naruto's men moving about to prepare for the remainder of the journey. Sasuke could hear their murmurs through the tent walls, and he knew Naruto wouldn't be far behind.

Just as the sun began to rise fully, the flap of the tent opened, and Naruto entered. His face was grim, his eyes heavy with guilt and regret. Without hesitation, he knelt down on the ground, his forehead pressed to the earth in a deep bow.

"I'm so sorry," Naruto said, his voice filled with remorse. "I didn't know. Four of my men were found slaughtered, and their clothes were missing. It looks like the rogues took their place to get close to the camp. I swear to you, Sakura, I didn't recognize them. I would never allow something like this to happen."

Sakura remained seated, her face calm but distant. She looked at Naruto for a long moment, her eyes softening slightly as she processed his words. Finally, she let out a quiet sigh.

"I forgive you, Naruto," she said, though her voice was quiet and firm. "But my mother, Tsunade, won't. You know that."

Naruto winced at the mention of Tsunade. He knew better than anyone how protective Tsunade was of her daughter. Still, he nodded in understanding, accepting Sakura's words as the truth.

"I understand," Naruto said quietly. "But I'll make it right. I promise."

Sakura didn't respond, but she gave him a small nod of acknowledgment. The silence between them lingered for a moment longer before Naruto stood up, his head hanging slightly.

"We'll set off soon," he said, his voice a little brighter now. "Only four hours left until we reach Hinata's home. I'll make sure everything is ready."

With that, he left the tent, leaving Sakura and Sasuke alone once more. Sakura exhaled slowly, her eyes drifting to the tent's entrance as she watched Naruto's retreating figure. She looked tired, despite her outward calm.

"We should prepare," Sasuke said quietly, standing up and stretching out his stiff limbs. The long night had taken its toll on both of them.

Sakura nodded in agreement, standing up as well. Her movements were deliberate, as though every action took effort, but she masked her exhaustion well. They both began gathering their belongings in silence, preparing for the final stretch of the journey.

The four-hour journey to Hinata's castle was quiet, with only the sound of horses' hooves on the dirt road breaking the stillness. Naruto rode ahead with some of his men, while Sakura and Sasuke followed close behind. Sakura kept her gaze forward, her expression calm and composed, though Sasuke could tell she was still processing everything that had happened.

When they finally reached the Hyuga estate, it was a sight to behold. The castle was grand, perched atop a hill overlooking the vast expanse of land surrounding it. The Hyuga clan was one of the most prestigious families in the Fire Country, known for their power and influence. The estate reflected that—large, imposing, and intricately designed with traditional architecture that spoke of wealth and status.

Naruto's men set up camp a short distance away from the castle, ensuring they remained respectful of the Hyuga territory. Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura dismounted from their horses and approached the compounds gates together. The guards recognized them immediately and opened the gates, allowing them entry without question.

Inside, the grandeur of the Hyuga estate was even more apparent. The gardens were meticulously maintained, and the stone pathways leading to the main hall were lined with lanterns that flickered in the soft morning light. Servants moved about quietly, preparing for the day's duties, but they all paused to bow respectfully as the visitors passed by.

As they approached the main hall, they were greeted by none other than Lord Hiashi Hyuga, the head of the Hyuga clan and Hinata's father. He was a stern-looking man, his features sharp and his expression serious. Behind him stood Hinata herself, her face lighting up with joy the moment she saw Sakura.

"Princess Sakura!" Hinata exclaimed, her voice soft but filled with warmth. She stepped forward, her eyes bright with happiness. "I'm so glad to see you."

Sakura's coldness seemed to melt away in Hinata's presence. A genuine smile crossed her face, and she returned Hinata's embrace with a warmth that had been absent for most of the journey.

"It's good to see you too, Hinata," Sakura said softly, her voice lacking the edge it had held since the attack. For the first time since that night, her eyes lost the guarded look, replaced by something softer and more familiar.

Hiashi watched the exchange with a neutral expression, but his sharp eyes missed nothing. He gestured for them to enter the main hall, where the meeting was to take place.

"Let us discuss the matters at hand," Hiashi said, his voice calm but authoritative. He led them into the meeting room, a spacious chamber with large windows that allowed natural light to filter in. The room was adorned with tapestries bearing the Hyuga crest, and a long table stretched across the center, where the guests were invited to sit.

Once everyone was seated, Hiashi wasted no time getting to the point. "Naruto Uzumaki, you have come seeking my approval for your union with my daughter. Sakura, you are here as a representative of the Senju. What do you have to say about this proposal?"

Sakura straightened in her seat, her composure returning as she prepared to speak. "Naruto's kingdom has been instrumental in mediating conflicts between the Senju and the Uchiha clans. His clan has helped maintain peace in our region, and the efforts have been ongoing. I believe his intentions toward your daughter are sincere, and I vouch for him without hesitation."

Naruto's face lit up with gratitude at Sakura's words, though he remained silent as Hiashi considered them carefully.

"Your vouching carries weight, Princess Sakura," Hiashi said slowly, his gaze never leaving her. "But this is not a decision I take lightly. The Hyuga clan is on the far side of the Fire Country, and it is difficult for Hinata to gain an understanding of Naruto's character beyond the letters they have exchanged."

Hiashi turned his attention to Sakura once more, his expression thoughtful. "In your opinion, should Hinata be sent with you? To travel with Naruto, to spend time with him and see if there is truly a connection? I will not bless this union based on words alone. I need to know that my daughter will be well cared for."

Sakura hesitated for only a moment before nodding. "I believe it would be wise. Hinata should have the chance to know Naruto better, to see firsthand the kind of man he is. Letters can only say so much. If, after spending time with him, she feels that there is no connection, then the matter can be reconsidered. But I do believe that sending her with us would be the best course of action."

Lord Hiashi studied Sakura's face for a long moment, then turned his gaze to Hinata, who sat quietly beside him. Hinata's cheeks flushed slightly under her father's scrutiny, but she nodded in agreement with Sakura's words.

"I see," Hiashi said, his voice thoughtful. "Very well. Hinata will travel with you. I trust that you, Prince Naruto, will take care of her."

Naruto bowed his head deeply, his voice filled with sincerity. "I will, Lord Hiashi. You have my word."

With that, the meeting came to a close, and it was decided that Naruto, Sasuke, and Sakura would spend the night at the Hyuga estate before setting off the next morning with Hinata in tow. The tension from earlier in the day seemed to ease, and the group retired to their rooms to rest.

That evening, Sakura finally had the chance to wash up properly. The servants had drawn a bath for her, and she sank into the warm water with a deep sigh, letting the heat relax her tense muscles. The events of the past day still weighed on her mind, but the bath offered a brief reprieve, a moment of peace.

By the time she emerged, dressed in fresh clothes and her hair still damp, the castle had settled into a quiet lull. Tomorrow, they would set off with Hinata, and their journey would continue. But for now, Sakura allowed herself to enjoy the calm of the evening, grateful for the brief respite before the challenges that lay ahead.

-

As they began the journey back, the sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the group. Naruto and Hinata rode a few meters ahead of Sakura and Sasuke, their conversation kept proper and respectful, reflecting their noble status.

"Lady Hinata, it has been a while since we've had a chance to speak at length," Naruto said, his voice polite but warm, his demeanor respectful despite the closeness they had established through their letters. "I hope this journey hasn't been too taxing for you."

Hinata, ever composed, smiled softly. "Not at all, Lord Naruto. I've found it... pleasant so far. I appreciate the efforts your men have made to ensure our safety."

Naruto bowed his head slightly. "It's the least we can do for such an esteemed guest." He glanced back toward Sasuke and Sakura, who followed closely behind. The two were riding in silence, both seemingly lost in their own thoughts. Naruto lowered his voice slightly, addressing Hinata again. "Would you like to take a longer route back? There's a village not too far from here that's known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful surroundings. I think you'd enjoy it."

Hinata's eyes lit up at the suggestion, but she remained polite. "I would love that, but I wouldn't want to impose on Princess Sakura's plans or delay her journey back home."

Naruto smiled and turned his head back toward Sasuke. "It depends on Sakura, doesn't it?"

Sasuke, who had been listening quietly, nodded. "It's her call," he said simply, his tone even.

Sakura, catching the tail end of their conversation, glanced between Sasuke and Naruto. She didn't want to be the one to dampen Hinata's enjoyment of the journey. Though her mind was still occupied with everything that had happened, she couldn't deny that the idea of a small detour sounded appealing.

"If Lady Hinata wishes to visit the village, then I see no reason to object," Sakura said with a smile. "We can afford a brief stop."

Naruto's face brightened at her agreement. "Then it's settled! We'll take the scenic route. We should arrive at the village by late afternoon."

As they reached the village, it was everything Naruto had promised. A peaceful, quaint settlement nestled in a valley with lush gardens and a calm river flowing through the heart of it. The villagers didn't seem to recognize them as royalty, which was refreshing. There were no formal greetings or bows, just warm smiles and simple curiosity as they entered.

Naruto's men set up camp on the outskirts of the village, while the group explored the town at their leisure. The villagers went about their daily lives, completely unaware of the prestigious company in their midst. This anonymity gave Sakura a strange sense of peace. Here, she wasn't Princess Sakura of the Senju Clan. She was just another traveler.

As they finished setting up camp, Sasuke approached Sakura. His tone was cautious, as though he wasn't sure how she would respond. "You'll be staying with Lady Hinata tonight. Will you be alright?"

Sakura glanced over to where Hinata was, her friend smiling and conversing quietly with Naruto. Sakura nodded, appreciating Sasuke's concern. "I'll be fine," she said softly. "Hinata and I have a lot to catch up on."

Sasuke didn't respond immediately. His usual stoic demeanor remained in place, but Sakura could tell he was trying, in his own way, to make peace. After the tension of their family feud, it was a small but meaningful gesture.

Recognizing the effort, Sakura decided to extend her own olive branch. "Would you like to walk with me? I'd like to explore the village a little before nightfall."

Sasuke blinked in mild surprise but nodded. "Sure."

The two of them wandered through the village in companionable silence at first. The air was filled with the scent of freshly baked bread and the distant sound of children playing. For a brief moment, they could both forget the weight of their respective roles and just enjoy the simplicity of the village life around them.

After walking for a while, they passed by a small school-like building where a group of children was gathered outside. Most of them were laughing and playing, but one little boy sat off to the side, his face buried in his hands as he sobbed quietly. Sakura's heart tightened at the sight.

Without a second thought, she approached the boy, kneeling beside him. "What's wrong?" she asked gently, her voice soft and soothing.

The boy sniffed and looked up, his eyes red from crying. "I-I fell and hurt my leg," he mumbled, holding up his scraped knee.

Sakura smiled kindly. "Let me take a look." She held her hands over his injury, and within seconds, a soft green glow emitted from her palms. The boy's eyes widened in wonder as the pain in his leg vanished, and the scrape began to heal.

Sasuke watched the scene quietly from a few steps away, his expression unreadable. He had seen Sakura's healing abilities before, but seeing her use them here, in such an unassuming setting, made him pause. He couldn't help but wonder if her actions were for the boy's sake or to impress those around her. Either way, it didn't change the fact that the boy was now smiling, his tears forgotten.

"Thank you!" the boy said brightly, running off to join his friends without a second thought.

Sakura stood up, brushing the dust from her robes. When she turned back to Sasuke, she caught a glimpse of something in his expression—something akin to admiration, though he quickly masked it.

"You didn't have to do that," Sasuke said quietly.

"I wanted to," Sakura replied simply, meeting his gaze. "It's not about needing to. Sometimes, it's just about helping."

Sasuke didn't respond, but something in the air between them shifted. The tension that had once been so heavy seemed to lighten, just a little.

They continued walking, eventually making their way toward the market square. The place was bustling with activity, stalls lined with colorful fabrics, trinkets, and fresh produce. As they passed one of the stalls, Sasuke paused, his eyes catching on something familiar.

Tomatoes.

Sakura raised an eyebrow as Sasuke picked up a few tomatoes and handed the vendor some coins. "Tomatoes?" she asked, confused. "You just eat them raw?"

Sasuke gave a small shrug, his expression as stoic as ever. "I like them."

Sakura blinked, still a little perplexed, but then her eyes landed on a nearby stall selling dango. Her lips curled into a small smile as she purchased a few sticks. "You know, my brother likes dango too," he said offhandedly, glancing at Sakura.

Why would he tell me such a thing? What is the purpose of this information? She finally turned to look at him.

For a moment, their eyes met, and the world around them seemed to fade into the background. It wasn't an intense moment, but it was enough for both of them to pause. There was an understanding between them now, unspoken but present.

They stood there for a few seconds longer, neither of them speaking, until finally, Sasuke looked away, clearing his throat slightly. "We should head back."

Sakura nodded, her small smile lingering as they made their way back to camp.

Back at the camp, the air was still and peaceful. Naruto and Hinata were engaged in quiet conversation by the fire, while the rest of the group began to settle in for the night. As Sakura and Sasuke returned, there was a sense of calm that hadn't been there earlier. The journey wasn't over, but for the first time in a while, it felt like the weight on their shoulders had lifted, if only just a little.

Sakura glanced at Sasuke as they parted ways for the night. He gave her a small nod, a gesture of acknowledgment, and she returned it with a soft smile.

Perhaps this journey would be more than just a diplomatic mission. Perhaps it would be the start of something else entirely.

The night had settled over the village, casting a soft glow from the lanterns hanging outside the tents. Inside Hinata's tent, the atmosphere was a stark contrast to the tense events of the past few days—calm and serene. Sakura and Hinata sat cross-legged on intricately woven rugs, the flickering light casting gentle shadows across their faces and dancing along the tent's fabric walls.

Hinata, now dressed in a comfortable lavender yukata, studied Sakura with gentle curiosity. "You glanced in in Naruto and I's direction a few times," she began, her voice soft but steady. "What's on your mind, Sakura?"

Sakura's gaze fell to the delicate patterns on the rug, her fingers absently tracing the intricate designs. "I've been wondering... how did you and Naruto start exchanging letters? It seems like there's some history there. Your father mentioned letters?"

A faint blush colored Hinata's cheeks, but her smile was warm and genuine. "It began quite unexpectedly," she said, her eyes taking on a distant look as she recalled the memories. "Naruto, ever the optimist, was determined to improve relations between our clans. He started by reaching out through letters, hoping to build trust and understanding."

Sakura leaned forward, intrigued. "That must have been risky, given the tensions between your clan and his people."

Hinata nodded, her expression a mixture of admiration and fondness. "It was. At first, it was just formal correspondence—stilted and cautious. But as time went on, it became more personal. We began sharing our hopes, our fears, our dreams for the future. Naruto has this... this way of breaking down barriers, of seeing the person beyond the clan name."

"You make him sounds remarkable," Sakura said, a hint of wonder in her voice. "I will say it must have taken incredible courage to reach out like that."

"It did," Hinata agreed, her voice soft but filled with pride. "From what I understand, Naruto has always been persistent when it comes to what he believes in. His dedication, his unwavering belief in the possibility of peace—it's inspiring."

A comfortable silence fell between them, broken only by the distant sounds of the night and the gentle rustle of the tent in the breeze. After a moment, Hinata tilted her head, her pale eyes curious. "But what about you, Princess? Why did Prince Sasuke come along with Naruto on this mission? I understand your presence here, but his..."

Sakura sighed, her shoulders tensing slightly. "It's... complicated," she began, choosing her words carefully. "My presence was necessary to show our clan's commitment to peace. As for Sasuke..." She paused, searching for the right words. "I think Naruto invited him to show the peace between our clans, but Naruto and his father forgot that your father and mine exchange letters of the truth."

Hinata's gaze was thoughtful, free of judgment. "That is true, however... what about Prince Sasuke himself? Do you believe he truly wants peace?"

Sakura's fingers twisted in the fabric of her robe, her inner conflict visible in the furrow of her brow. "Most of us in the Senju Clan do want peace. Even Prince Itachi is working towards it. But Sasuke..." She shook her head, frustration evident in her voice. "His feelings are so complex, so layered with pain and anger. And yet..."

"And yet?" Hinata prompted gently.

"He saved my life," Sakura said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Just two nights ago. It was unexpected, given our history. It made me reconsider everything I thought I knew about him."

Hinata's eyes widened. "He saved you? I had no idea."

Sakura nodded, a small, confused smile playing at her lips. "Yes, he did. And I have not stopped thinking about it. His actions were so at odds with the Sasuke I heard stories of and briefly met. It makes me wonder if there's hope for change, for him to see things differently."

"That's quite significant," Hinata mused. "But what about his clan? They were the ones who started the war, weren't they? How much influence do they hold over the possibility of peace?"

Sakura's expression grew somber. "They hold a great deal of influence. The Uchiha pride runs deep, and their grudges run even deeper. It's going to be incredibly difficult to achieve lasting peace without their full support." She paused, her gaze distant. "Sasuke's actions might help, but whether it will be enough to sway the hardliners in his clan... that remains to be seen."

Hinata reached out, placing a comforting hand on Sakura's arm. "It sounds like you're carrying a heavy burden, Sakura. The weight of expectations, the hope for peace, and making a good impression for the enemy."

Sakura's eyes met Hinata's, vulnerability shining in their jade depths. "It is heavy," she admitted. "Sometimes I feel like I'm walking a tightrope, trying to balance my duty to my clan with my own beliefs and... and these new, uncertain feelings."

"Change often starts with small steps," Hinata said softly. "Every gesture of kindness, every moment of understanding—they all count. Perhaps Prince Sasuke's actions, and your willingness to see beyond old grudges, are the first steps on a new path."

Sakura smiled, feeling a weight lift from her shoulders. "Thank you, Lady Hinata. Your perspective... it means more than you know."

As the night deepened around them, the two women sat in companionable silence, each lost in thought. The soft glow of the lanterns cast a warm, golden light, creating a cocoon of peace in the midst of uncertain times.

Sakura felt a sense of calm settle over her, born from the unexpected connection she'd found with Hinata. As they prepared for sleep, her mind drifted to the challenges that lay ahead—the delicate dance of diplomacy, the weight of clan expectations, and the enigma that was Sasuke Uchiha.

But for the first time in a long while, as Sakura closed her eyes, she felt a flicker of hope burning bright in her chest. In the quiet of the night, surrounded by the gentle breathing of her new friend, she allowed herself to believe that maybe, just maybe, a new dawn was on the horizon—one of understanding, forgiveness, and peace.

-

The group finally entered the Land of Fire. The dense trees gradually thinned, revealing a large, vibrant village where the Uzumaki clan's in charge. Princess Sakura and Lady Hinata rode in the lead, their eyes scanning the distant castle. Naruto, full of energy, pointed excitedly at the grand structure in the distance, clearly proud of his homeland.

As they reached the gates, it was time for Princess Sakura and Lady Hinata to bid their farewell. Sakura gracefully dismounted from her horse, and Hinata followed her, offering a quiet smile.

Naruto approached with a broad grin. "So, Lady Hinata, you'll stay here at the castle, right? We've got plenty of room—"

Sakura interrupted, her voice carrying the authority of a princess. "It would be improper to have Lady Hinata stay with you, Naruto. As a royal, you tend not to know your manners."

Naruto blinked, slightly taken aback. "Oh, right. Sorry about that," he mumbled, rubbing the back of his head, embarrassed.

Sakura sighed but softened her expression. "It's fine. Just... try to be more aware next time and less of a disappointment."

Sakura turned back to Naruto. "Before we part ways, bring your father and mother to my castle by nightfall. My mother will want to speak with them about... certain incidents." Her words trailed off with a knowing look.

Naruto nodded sheepishly, while Hinata remained silent beside her. She had grown accustomed to being overlooked in these political matters, but even so, she felt a slight twinge of curiosity. What incident were they referring to? She lowered her gaze, her natural humility keeping her from asking further questions.

Sakura didn't elaborate. Instead, she gave him a firm nod, signaling the end of the conversation. Beside her, Hinata's confusion deepened, but as a lady, it was not her place to inquire, so she kept quiet, hiding her thoughts behind a polite smile.

Finally, it was time for proper goodbyes. Sakura stepped forward, her soft voice barely louder than a whisper. "Goodbye, Prince Sasuke. Thank you once again for your protection. I am deeply grateful."

Sasuke gave her a curt nod, his expression respectful. "Safe travels, Princess. It was an honor." His voice was measured, and though his words were formal, there was a hint of sincerity beneath them.

Sakura gave Sasuke a final look before gesturing for Hinata to follow. "Let's go, Hinata."

With one last glance at Naruto and Sasuke, the two women mounted their horses and rode toward the distant horizon.

As Princess Sakura and Lady Hinata rode into the Senju castle courtyard, the large gates swung open, revealing rows of guards and maids, all standing in a line to greet their return. A squire immediately approached, bowing deeply before speaking.

"Welcome back, Your Highness," he said, eyes lowered. "Lady Hinata's guest quarters are prepared. Shall I show her to her room?"

"Yes," Sakura nodded, her voice calm but commanding. She glanced at Hinata. "Rest well, Hinata. I'll see you tomorrow."

Hinata offered a polite nod, still quiet, her face showing no sign of the confusion she carried from earlier. As the squire led her toward the guest wing, Sakura continued walking toward the main hall, her steps purposeful.

A second squire approached and bowed deeply. "Shall I announce your return to Their Majesties?"

"Yes, and let them know I need to speak with them immediately," Sakura said. Her expression was calm, but there was a sharpness in her eyes. The squire dashed ahead, hurrying to inform the king and queen.

Sakura made her way to the throne room, taking a deep breath as she walked in, her parents already seated and waiting. The King, Dan Senju, sat tall and thoughtful, while Queen Tsunade Senju was tapping her fingers impatiently, her stern gaze fixed on her daughter.

"What's this about?" Tsunade's voice was tight with barely restrained anger. "You look unharmed, but I was told there was trouble."

Sakura bowed her head slightly, then straightened. "Mother, Father, I have just returned from the far side of Land of Fire."

Tsunade frowned, sensing the tension in Sakura's voice. "And?"

Sakura took a breath before continuing, her tone even but laced with disdain. "I do not trust the Uzumaki clan. They are reckless, careless. While I was there, rogues attacked me. These men tried to devalue me, to dishonor me." Her eyes narrowed. "It was the second son of the Uchiha, Prince Sasuke, who saved me. Naruto... Naruto acted as if he didn't notice these were not his men, but I asked him specifically to have only female guards outside my tent. That should have been his first clue that something was wrong."

Tsunade's face hardened, her fist clenching on the armrest of her throne. Dan remained silent, listening carefully.

"They attacked when I was getting dressed," Sakura continued, her voice icy. "I am unharmed, but Naruto allowed this to happen under his nose."

Tsunade slammed her fist against the side of her chair. "I'll have his head for this!" she hissed, her voice filled with fury.

But Dan raised his hand, signaling for calm. "Tsunade, wait. There's a way we can use this to our advantage."

Tsunade glared at him but listened as Dan spoke.

"The Senju clan used to control the central village where all the castles in the Land of Fire lead to," Dan began. "But we transferred control to the Sarutobi, who later handed it to Minato Namikaze when he married into the Uzumaki clan. They've held onto their power because of that beast in their basement and because they helped secure our treaties."

Sakura nodded, understanding her father's point. "Naruto and his clan are only strong because of the alliances and the creature they keep for war. If we move carefully, we can shift things back in our favor. Mother," she turned to Tsunade, "you could reclaim control of the village. In exchange, we'll continue to vouch for Lady Hinata's marriage to Naruto, and in doing so, we'll forgive his negligence."

Tsunade's expression shifted from rage to thoughtful calculation. "You're suggesting we push for Hinata to marry Naruto as planned, but only after we regain control?"

"Exactly," Sakura said firmly. "Naruto and his parents will be here by nightfall. We should make it clear that forgiveness comes with a price. And in return, they'll remain on the defensive, unsure of their standing."

Dan smiled, pleased. "It's a sound plan. And one that strengthens our position without spilling blood."

Tsunade leaned back in her chair, the fire in her eyes cooling as she considered the plan. "I like it. I'll deal with Minato and Kushina when they arrive."

Sakura nodded. "Then it's settled. By nightfall, we will discuss terms with them."