Legacies

Days after the intense meeting between the Uzumaki, Senju, and Uchiha clans, the Uchiha compound was quiet but buzzing with internal deliberations. Fugaku sat at the head of the table, pondering their next steps. Sasuke, though quiet, was visibly frustrated by the delay in both the marriage proposal and the strategy to capture Orochimaru. Itachi, ever calm and composed, observed his brother's agitation but had his own ideas about how to move forward.

"Father," Itachi began, breaking the silence, "I believe it would be wise for us to make a move sooner rather than later."

Fugaku turned to him, his brow furrowed. "You're suggesting we move forward with the plan to capture Orochimaru, even though I've advised waiting?"

Itachi shook his head. "Not necessarily with Orochimaru, but with the Senju. Sasuke's desire to marry Sakura is important, and the Senju need time to consider it. We haven't officially approached them yet. Let's bring it up now so they can think about it while we continue our plans."

Sasuke leaned forward, his eyes flashing with impatience. "Why wait any longer? We should make our intentions clear. The longer we hesitate, the more complicated things get."

Fugaku glanced between his sons, contemplating their words. "Itachi, you believe that offering the proposal now, without expecting an immediate decision, will give us leverage?"

Itachi nodded. "Exactly. The Senju respect strength and foresight. If we give them the idea of a potential marriage between our clans, they will see that we are serious about maintaining our alliance. At the same time, it allows them to consider the benefits without the pressure of making a decision right away. It also positions us as proactive, while we continue monitoring Orochimaru."

Fugaku leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "It's a sound strategy. If we push the proposal now, it will give the Senju time to see the merit in aligning with us further, especially after the Uzumaki situation. We can buy time to strengthen our stance against any threats."

Sasuke, though still eager, nodded in agreement. "Itachi is right. We need to move forward, and this will give Sakura and her family time to process the idea."

Fugaku stood up, his decision made. "Very well. I'll send a formal message to the Senju. We'll suggest a meeting to discuss the future of our alliance, and within that, we will introduce the idea of the marriage proposal. Let them consider it, while we continue preparing for Orochimaru."

Itachi and Sasuke exchanged a glance, knowing that this step would bring them closer to their goals. For Sasuke, it was about uniting with Sakura. For Itachi, it was about securing peace and stability for their clan.

With the decision made, Fugaku summoned a messenger to prepare the letter to the Senju. The wheels were set in motion, and soon, the Uchiha and Senju would be drawn even closer, with the marriage proposal looming over their next meeting.

The day of the meeting had arrived. The weight of the Uchiha and Senju clans' past grudges still lingered in the air, but it had begun to soften, replaced by cautious optimism.

Fugaku sat calmly at the head of the Uchiha delegation, his demeanor firm but without the underlying skepticism he once carried. After all, it had been his suggestion to unite the two clans through marriage, and he was more interested in securing the peace his clan had long sought. Itachi sat to his right, observing everything with his usual stoic calm, while Sasuke stood to his left, his posture confident but respectful, knowing full well the importance of what was to come. Mikoto was present as well, her warm smile a contrast to Fugaku's sternness.

On the Senju side, Tsunade led the group, regal and resolute as ever, while Dan remained quiet beside her. His expression was neutral, though tension flickered behind his eyes. Kakashi, as always, stayed to the side, watchful, calculating. But it was Sakura, sitting between her parents, who had everyone's attention. Her composure was solid, though beneath the surface, her thoughts were tangled with uncertainty and the hope of what this proposal might mean.

After a few pleasantries, Fugaku spoke first, his voice steady and confident. "The union between the Uchiha and Senju would not only strengthen our clans but also ensure a lasting peace for our people. My sons, Itachi and Sasuke, are both capable leaders. But after careful consideration, we believe Sasuke is the ideal candidate for this union."

Sakura, who had been watching Fugaku with quiet intensity, met Sasuke's eyes briefly before she spoke, her voice calm and clear. "I would not mind a marriage with Sasuke," she said, her words carrying a surprising warmth that caused a ripple of reaction among the Uchiha. "He and I have already fought together, and we trust each other. I know this could lead to something more than just a political alliance."

Tsunade gave her daughter a look of approval, but it was Kakashi who spoke next. "This proposal shows that the Uchiha are not interested in a marriage for power alone," he said, leaning back in his seat. "If they were, they would have asked for Sakura to marry Itachi, not Sasuke. It's clear they value the bond that already exists."

Fugaku gave a small nod at Kakashi's remark, appreciating the acknowledgment. It was true; if they were aiming purely for power, Itachi would have been the more obvious choice. But this was about more than just influence. It was about trust, a delicate balance they were striving to maintain after years of division.

Dan, however, remained quiet, his arms folded across his chest. He glanced between his daughter and Sasuke, and though his lips were pressed into a thin line, his silence spoke volumes. He didn't trust the Uchiha, not fully. The timing of this proposal, so soon after the Uzumaki meeting, felt too convenient. His mind kept turning over the same thought: Were they really offering peace, or was this another play for control?

Fugaku, sensing the tension, addressed the room with finality. "This is not a decision to be made lightly. But I believe that both our clans have come to a point where we must trust the bonds forged in battle, not the grudges of the past. My son Sasuke is prepared to do whatever is necessary to honor this union."

There was a pause, and for a moment, the room seemed to hold its collective breath. Tsunade, taking a deep breath, spoke next. "The Senju have always believed in peace and strength through unity. If this marriage is what will solidify that unity, then we will support it."

Sasuke glanced at Sakura once more, his expression softening as he saw the resolve in her eyes. She gave him a subtle nod, her own silent confirmation of their path forward.

But Dan remained silent, his thoughts heavy, still unsettled by the Uchiha's motives. He respected the progress their clans had made, but trust—real, lasting trust—would take more than words. Still, for the sake of his daughter and the future of the village, he held his tongue.

As the conversation about the marriage continued, Fugaku and Tsunade exchanged formalities, though the air in the room remained tense. Kakashi sat silently, his eyes watching everything closely, but it was clear he had something to say. Then, in a single deliberate movement, he lifted his hand and removed the mask that had always hidden his face.

The room froze.

When the fabric fell away, Kakashi revealed the unmistakable glow of the Sharingan in his left eye. There was an audible gasp from the Uchiha side of the room. Mikoto's eyes widened in disbelief. Even Itachi, who rarely showed surprise, blinked, his usually calm demeanor shifting. Fugaku's reaction was the most intense—his eyes narrowed, and his face twisted with a mix of confusion, suspicion, and anger.

"How...?" Fugaku's voice was low and dangerous, barely contained. "How does a Senju possess the Sharingan?"

Kakashi, his expression calm though clearly aware of the gravity of the situation, spoke evenly. "Orochimaru's experiments," he explained. "When I was captured, he used me as one of his subjects. One of his twisted experiments involved implanting the Sharingan. I didn't ask for it, but I've learned to use it." His gaze moved slowly between the members of the Uchiha clan, stopping on Fugaku. "My loyalty remains with the Senju, no matter what Orochimaru did."

A heavy silence fell over the room as the weight of Kakashi's words sank in. Fugaku's face remained hard, his mind racing to process the implications of a Senju wielding a power sacred to the Uchiha. His hands gripped the arms of his chair tightly as he wrestled with the thought of whether Kakashi was now a threat—or a reluctant ally.

But it was Itachi who spoke next, his voice calm but thoughtful. "This could be acceptable," he said, his words cutting through the tension. "If we are to become family, the Sharingan in Kakashi's possession does not have to be an issue. We've been enemies for generations, but this moment could be a turning point."

Fugaku glanced sharply at his eldest son, surprised by the suggestion. Itachi, unbothered by the scrutiny, continued, "Kakashi has proven himself an ally. If the Senju and Uchiha are serious about uniting, about becoming family through marriage, this bond can be a way to move forward. The Sharingan in his hands is a reminder of the battles we've fought—but also the new trust we're building."

There was another pause as Fugaku weighed his son's words. Sasuke, who had been quiet, finally spoke up, his voice casual but clear. "Father, I knew about Kakashi's eye." His admission drew startled looks from both sides of the room. "I forgot to mention it. But I didn't think it mattered. Not now, when we're focused on Orochimaru and protecting the village."

Fugaku's head snapped toward Sasuke, surprise mingling with frustration in his expression. But before he could say anything, Mikoto spoke softly, her voice tinged with concern. "Orochimaru must be stopped," she said, her eyes flicking toward Kakashi. "His experiments... what he's done to Kakashi... we cannot allow him to continue."

Fugaku exhaled sharply, his mind clearly torn between his loyalty to the Uchiha bloodline and the bigger threat looming over the village. "The snake must be killed," he said, his tone cold. "Before he causes any more damage." His gaze shifted back to Kakashi, his voice lowering. "But the Sharingan... in the hands of a Senju... this cannot be overlooked."

Itachi's eyes met his father's, and he spoke firmly. "Father, the Senju are not our enemies anymore. Kakashi didn't steal the Sharingan—it was forced upon him. If we're truly going to move forward, we need to accept that. The Sharingan in his hands doesn't weaken us; it strengthens our bond."

Fugaku stared at Itachi for a long moment, the conflict evident in his eyes. Finally, he nodded slowly, though his tone remained cautious. "For now, we share a common enemy. We will deal with Orochimaru. But this conversation isn't over. The Sharingan is Uchiha blood, and that must be respected."

Kakashi, calm despite the tension in the room, gave a respectful nod. "I understand," he said. "And when the time comes, I'll be ready for that conversation."

Sasuke, looking between his brother and father, added quietly, "We have bigger threats to face right now. We need to focus on what's next... and my future."

Fugaku's gaze softened slightly as he looked at his two sons. Then, with a final glance at Kakashi's Sharingan, he settled back in his seat. "Very well," he said quietly. "But remember—this trust we're building is fragile. Let's not give anyone a reason to doubt it."

As the tension in the room slowly settled, it was Mikoto who gently guided the conversation back to the original topic, her voice calm but firm, like a mother settling a disagreement between her children.

"Before we get lost in any further debate," she began, her eyes shifting between Fugaku and Tsunade, "let's not forget why we're all here. We're discussing a potential union between our families, between Sasuke and Sakura." Her gaze softened as she glanced at Sasuke, then at Sakura. "Sakura is not only a princess but also a skilled warrior, one who has shown remarkable strength and care for others. We've seen her healing ability firsthand—she helped fix the chakra blocks in the eyes of several Uchiha. That's not something I can easily forget."

Tsunade listened, her posture strong but the praise for her daughter clearly touching her. Mikoto continued, turning her attention back to Tsunade. "As a mother, I would be honored to see my son marry someone as resilient and caring as Sakura. We have spent too long as enemies. This marriage could truly unite us, not just politically but in a way that ensures both families thrive."

There was a pause, and all eyes turned toward Tsunade, waiting for her response. Tsunade's eyes softened as she glanced toward her daughter, who had remained mostly quiet during the conversation. "Sakura may be a princess and a warrior, but she also has a kind heart," Tsunade said, her voice steady. "She has always been willing to help others, even at great personal cost. I know she's earned the Uchiha's respect by what she's done for your clan, and I am proud of her for that."

Tsunade's expression hardened slightly as she shifted her focus to Sasuke. "But beyond all of that, Sasuke saved Sakura's innocence when the Uzumaki failed to protect her," she said, her tone more forceful. "I haven't forgotten how close we were to losing her, and how Sasuke stepped in. And not only that—he brought my son Kakashi home after years of separation. For that, I owe him my gratitude."

Sasuke's expression remained stoic, but the weight of Tsunade's words hung heavily in the room. Mikoto smiled softly, nodding in acknowledgment. "It's true," she said. "Sasuke has grown in ways that make me proud as his mother, and it seems clear that his actions have already begun to bridge the gaps between our families."

Tsunade folded her arms, her eyes narrowing slightly as she considered Mikoto's words. "I'm not one to jump into alliances or marriages lightly," she said carefully. "But if there is to be any chance of true peace and unity, this marriage could be a step in the right direction. My daughter's happiness is what matters to me most, and I trust her judgment."

Sakura, who had been silent up until now, glanced at her mother, then at Sasuke. "We've forged an unbreakable bond fighting side by side against Orochimaru. Our shared experiences have created something far deeper than any political alliance. Perhaps this is a new path towards lasting peace between our clans. Knowing this, I wouldn't hesitate to marry Sasuke."

A moment of silence went on and she looked directly at Sasuke and said, "I wouldn't be unhappy about marrying you," she said quietly but confidently.

"I told you my feelings not long ago and I truly believe we shall handle Orochimaru," Sasuke said confidently. "Together."

Fugaku, who had been observing everything with a critical eye, spoke up once again. "If this marriage is to go forward, it must be built on mutual respect, not just political convenience."

Tsunade nodded, her expression firm. "Agreed. And for it to work, we'll need to trust each other. This union could change everything."

Mikoto smiled at Tsunade's words, the tension easing slightly from her posture. "Then it seems we're all in agreement," she said warmly, turning toward her son. "Sasuke, this is your choice. But I believe Sakura would be a wonderful partner, not just for you, but for the future we're all trying to build."

Sasuke met his mother's gaze, then looked at Sakura. There was no doubt in his mind. "I want this," he said simply.

The room fell silent for a moment as the words settled over everyone. Then, slowly, both families began to nod in quiet acceptance, knowing that this decision would shape not only their lives but the future of their clans.

Although Dan wasn't finished, though. "However," he said, his voice steady and resolute, "there is still the matter of Orochimaru. As long as he remains a threat to both our clans, this marriage cannot proceed. We can continue this discussion once he is dealt with."

But Queen Tsunade interjected, her gaze sharp yet calm. "My daughter has already agreed, and I stand by her decision. So let's settle on the terms now," she said, turning to her husband with authority. "We can decide on the actual wedding later."

With that, the meeting came to a close, the terms of the marriage agreed upon. But Sasuke knew this was only the beginning. Orochimaru's shadow still hung over them, and until he was defeated, their future remained uncertain.

Yet, for the first time in a long while, Sasuke felt something new. Hope. Hope for peace. Hope for unity between the clans. And most of all, hope for a future with Sakura by his side.

That night however a storm was brewing but not in the sky.

Tsunade stood at the window, gazing out at the moonlit landscape of their village, her hands resting on the windowsill. She could hear the soft crackling of the fire in their room, but it did little to warm the growing cold between her and Dan. The moment had finally come to speak, and the tension between them was palpable.

Dan paced the room, his hands clenched into fists. "I don't like this, Tsunade," he muttered, his voice low but laced with frustration. "An Uchiha? You really think that's what's best for our daughter? I felt blindsided in that meeting and forced to agree,"

Tsunade sighed, not turning to face him yet. "It's not just about what's best for Sakura. It's about what's best for the clans, for the village."

Dan stopped in his tracks, narrowing his eyes. "That's exactly my point! Our daughter shouldn't be some pawn in a political game between clans. She deserves someone worthy of her, not... not them."

She finally turned to him, her eyes sharp. "Not them?" she repeated, her tone carrying an edge. "You've always distrusted the Uchiha, Dan, but they've proven themselves time and time again. Especially their second son. And Sakura made her choice."

"Her choice?" Dan's voice rose. "She's young, Tsunade! She only 20! Sakura doesn't know what she's getting into. You're telling me she couldn't be with someone better? What about Gaara, the King within the Sand? He'd be a worthy match! Or Neji, the nephew of the Hyuga Clan leader—someone who could protect her, someone who understands loyalty and honor."

Tsunade's patience was wearing thin. "And you think Sasuke doesn't understand loyalty and honor? He's fought alongside Sakura. He's saved her life, just as she has saved his."

Dan scoffed, shaking his head. "And you think that's enough? Do you really trust the Uchiha, Tsunade? Do you really believe that Fugaku and his clan won't twist this marriage to their advantage? I won't allow our daughter to share their last name. She's a Senju! A princess and a warrior who deserves better than to be tied to a clan with such a dark history."

Tsunade's eyes flashed with anger as she took a step toward him. "We share their history! You think this is just about last names and old grudges? Sakura made her decision, and it's not just about the clans. Did you see the look on her face today? She's in love, Dan. Just like we were once."

Dan's jaw clenched. "That's different. We were—"

"It's not different!" Tsunade interrupted, her voice rising. "You think I didn't see the same doubts in others' eyes when I chose you? You think I didn't feel the same pressure to marry for politics, for alliances? You weren't even a prince! But I didn't care, and neither did you. We chose love, Dan. That's what Sakura is doing now. And you need to accept it."

Dan took a deep breath, his anger simmering just beneath the surface. "This is different," he repeated, his voice quieter but no less intense. "I still don't trust them. At least I was a Senju! The Uchiha have always looked out for themselves first. They're dangerous. And I won't let our daughter be dragged into their games."

Tsunade stepped closer, her expression fierce. "I am the head of the Senju Clan, Dan. Not you. And I have made my decision. This marriage will go forward."

Dan blinked, taken aback by her words. He had always known Tsunade's strength, her will, but in this moment, it felt like a wall he couldn't break through. "So that's it?" he asked bitterly. "You've made the decision, and I'm just supposed to fall in line?"

Tsunade folded her arms across her chest, her expression hard. "This isn't about you or your pride. It's about our daughter's happiness. And if you can't see that, then maybe you should take some time to think about what's really important here."

Dan stared at her, the anger draining from his face, replaced by a look of hurt. For a long moment, he was silent, searching her eyes for any sign of compromise, but he found none. She was resolute, and there was no changing her mind.

"If that's what you want, Your Highness," he said finally, his voice cold and formal, using her title in a way that stung more than any argument ever could. Without another word, Dan turned on his heel and left the room, the door closing behind him with a soft but final thud.

Tsunade stood in the silence, her heart heavy. She watched as the moonlight cast long shadows across the room, the fire in the hearth slowly dying down. The argument had drained her, but she refused to let herself waver. This was the right decision, no matter how much Dan disagreed.

But still, as she stood alone in the quiet, Tsunade couldn't help but feel the weight of what had just happened. Dan had never spoken to her like that before. Their relationship had always been built on trust and mutual respect. But tonight, something had shifted.

With a deep sigh, she walked to the bed and sat down, her hands resting in her lap. She knew Dan loved Sakura as fiercely as she did, but his stubbornness, his refusal to see beyond his distrust of the Uchiha, was tearing them apart. And now, for the first time in a long time, Tsunade felt a rift between them that she wasn't sure how to bridge.

She lay down, staring up at the ceiling, trying to quiet her racing thoughts. Tomorrow, the discussions about the marriage would continue, and the fate of both the Senju and Uchiha clans would be at the forefront. But tonight, in the quiet of her empty room, Tsunade found herself thinking not of politics or power, but of her daughter's happiness—and her own.

Dan slipped out of the Senju castle, his heart heavy with anger and disappointment. He wore a simple brown cloak and a wide-brimmed hat, carefully hiding his distinctive features and the markings of his status. As he made his way through the village streets, his mind raced with bitter thoughts.

He couldn't believe Tsunade was so caught up in her Senju bloodline. Sure, she hadn't said it outright, but he could read between the lines. Her insistence on this marriage, her dismissal of his concerns - it all reeked of clan superiority. He, a former peasant who had risen through the ranks, would never truly understand the weight of Senju legacy, would he?

The tavern lights beckoned, promising a brief respite from his roiling emotions. Dan pushed through the door, the sudden warmth and noise washing over him. He settled at the bar, ordering sake with a gruff nod.

"Rough day?" The man next to him asked, his voice tinged with curiosity.

Dan grunted noncommittally, but after a moment's hesitation, he turned to face the stranger. "Which clan are you from?" he asked, his tone wary.

The man chuckled, shaking his head. "I'm from the Cloud area, actually. You wouldn't know my clan."

Dan's shoulders relaxed slightly. An outsider, then. Someone who might offer a fresh perspective. "You know of the Senju, though?"

"Of course," the man replied, taking a sip of his drink. "Who doesn't?"

Dan leaned in, lowering his voice. "Can you believe the Queen wants a marriage between her daughter and an Uchiha? It's madness."

The stranger fell quiet for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then he stood, placing a hand on Dan's shoulder. "Sounds like you've got a lot on your mind, friend. I've got to run, but why don't you come back tomorrow night? Seems like you could use someone to talk to."

Dan nodded, grateful for the offer. As the stranger left, he nursed his drink, lost in thought.

The next day dawned bright and clear, but Dan's mood remained as dark as the night before. He moved through the castle like a ghost, avoiding Tsunade's gaze and ignoring her attempts at conversation. The tension between them was alarming, a stark contrast to their usual easy companionship.

As he passed by Tsunade's study, he overheard a conversation that made him pause.

"Kakashi wants to meet with his friend Obito," Tsunade was saying. "He's eager to reconnect."

"I see," came the reply - Sakura's voice. "When can we arrange it?"

"I must discuss it with your father first," Tsunade said, her tone tinged with frustration. "Perhaps tomorrow, if he decides to speak to me again."

Dan's jaw clenched. Even now, she was pushing forward with this Uchiha nonsense. He turned on his heel, striding away before he could be discovered eavesdropping.

The day dragged on, each hour feeling like an eternity. Dan threw himself into his work, reviewing reports and meeting with advisors, anything to keep his mind occupied. But as night fell, the promise of a sympathetic ear drew him back to the village tavern.

Once again disguised, Dan found the stranger from the previous night waiting for him. They settled into a quiet corner, drinks in hand.

"So," the man said, "what's got you so worked up about this Senju-Uchiha marriage?"

Dan sighed, the words spilling out of him. "The heir of the Senju has returned, and tomorrow he wants to visit the Uchiha compound 'for fun.' Can you believe it? After everything that's happened between our clans, they are treating them like old friends."

The stranger smirked, an odd expression flitting across his face. "That is... interesting," he murmured, but Dan was too caught up in his own thoughts to notice the man's reaction.

"I just don't understand why the Senju are so eager to embrace the Uchiha," Dan continued, his voice rising with emotion. "Have they forgotten all the bloodshed, all the betrayals? Like I understand peace but why involve ourselves more than we must."

As Dan spoke, a young woman approached their table. She looked nervous, clutching a sealed letter in her hands. "Excuse me," she said softly, "I couldn't help overhearing. You know the Senju family?"

Dan hesitated, then nodded cautiously.

"Could you... could you deliver this letter to them?" she asked, holding out the envelope. "It's about some sick children on the other side of the village near the Uzumaki area but they have been neglecting us. I heard Queen Tsunade might be able to help, but I don't know how to reach her."

Dan's heart softened at the girl's earnest request. Despite his anger at Tsunade, he couldn't ignore a plea for help from their people. "Alright," he said, taking the letter. "I'll make sure they receive it."

The girl's face lit up with relief. "Thank you so much! Please, let me buy you a drink to show my gratitude."

Before Dan could protest, she had signaled the bartender and settled into the seat next to him. The conversation flowed easily as they drank, the girl's bright smile and gentle laugh slowly easing the tension Dan had been carrying all day.

As the night wore on and the drinks kept coming, Dan found himself relaxing more than he had in days. The girl leaned in close, her eyes sparkling in the dim tavern light. Without warning, she pressed her lips to his.

For a moment, Dan was too stunned to react. Then, as if doused with cold water, he jerked back, reality crashing down around him. What was he doing? He was married to Tsunade, the love of his life, the mother of his children. How had he let things go this far?

Mumbling hasty apologies, Dan stumbled to his feet and hurried out of the tavern. The cool night air did little to clear his head as he made his way back to the castle, disgust and shame warring within him.

As he collapsed into bed, careful not to wake Tsunade, Dan's mind raced. How had he let his anger and resentment push him to this point? He loved Tsunade, he loved Sakura - but his fear for their safety, his distrust of the Uchiha, had nearly driven him to betray everything he held dear.

The next morning, Dan awoke with a pounding headache and a heavy heart. The events of the previous night felt like a bad dream, but the sealed letter on his nightstand was a stark reminder of reality.

He found Tsunade in her study, poring over a stack of reports. She looked up as he entered, surprise and wariness in her eyes.

"Tsunade," Dan began, his voice hoarse. "I... I'm sorry. For everything."

She studied him for a long moment, then set down her papers with a sigh. "Dan, what's really going on? This isn't like you."

He sank into a chair, running a hand through his hair. "I'm scared," he admitted. "I'm terrified that this alliance with the Uchiha will end in heartbreak - or worse. I can't bear the thought of losing Sakura."

Tsunade's expression softened. She moved around the desk, kneeling beside his chair and taking his hands in hers. "Oh, Dan. Why didn't you just tell me?"

"I thought... I thought you wouldn't understand. That you'd see it as me questioning your judgment, or... or not being worthy of the Senju name."

Tsunade's eyes widened. "Is that what you think? Dan, you are my husband, my partner in everything. Your opinion matters to me, always. And you've more than earned your place in this family."

Dan felt a weight lift from his chest. "I've been a fool," he murmured.

"Yes, you have," Tsunade agreed, but there was a hint of a smile on her lips. "But you're my fool. Now, tell me everything. All your concerns, all your fears. Let's face this together."

For the next hour, Dan poured out his heart. He told Tsunade about his deep-seated distrust of the Uchiha, his fears for Sakura's safety, his worry that this alliance would leave them vulnerable. He spoke of his nightmares, visions of betrayal and bloodshed that had haunted him since the marriage was proposed. However, he could not bring himself to spill the truth of the kiss, the kiss with another women.

Tsunade listened patiently, her grip on his hands never wavering. When he finished, she was quiet for a long moment.

"I understand your fears," she said at last. "The history between our clans is... complicated, to say the least. But Dan, we can't let the past dictate our future forever. Sakura and Sasuke, they represent a new generation, a chance for real change."

"But how can we be sure?" Dan pressed. "How can we trust them?"

Tsunade smiled. "We start small. We build trust gradually. Which is why I think Kakashi's request is a perfect opportunity."

Dan blinked, confused. "Kakashi's request?"

"To meet with his friend Obito," Tsunade reminded him. "Obito Uchiha. He misses his friend. It would also be a chance for him to observe, to see how the Uchiha behave when they're not putting on a show for formal negotiations."

"I think Sakura would really want to go," Tsunade added. "It would be a good opportunity for her to see how the Uchiha interact with their peers."

Dan nodded. "I suppose you're right. But I still have other plans for her that I want to discuss with everyone at breakfast."

Tsunade raised an eyebrow. "What kind of plans?"

"I'll explain over breakfast," Dan replied.

Tsunade nodded. "Very well."

As they continued their discussion, Dan couldn't shake the feeling guilt that was making him physically sick.