Marriage and Politics

Arrival

Two Days Until the Wedding

The rumor of the wedding had reached everyone ears by the day that the sand-nin was suppose to arrive. There were people standing near or in the general vicinity of the gate since the night before. By noon dark figures appeared on the horizon. Villagers rushed the gate to catch a glimpse of the Kazekage and hopefully of the person to be wed in two days time. When the news reached Naruto, he made his way to the gate. The crowd parted for him, his recent fame had captivated even those of the older generations. He wasn’t despised anymore, but he still didn’t have their trust. Standing in the middle of the gate Naruto noticed that Gaara was leading the procession. Behind him were Temari and Kankuro, Temari looked troubled and Kankuro looked as odd as ever. Behind them was a large gathering of the Sand-nin, who had come as close friends to Temari and Gaara (even though Naruto didn’t know this).

Smiling Naruto addressed Gaara, “So Kazekage-san what brings you here?”
“Uzumaki, what did I tell you about calling me that?” said Gaara in his usual tone.

“What did I tell you about calling me Uzumaki?” holding his hand out Gaara. Gaara raised his hand and they shook. Some of the villagers whispered things like, ‘He knows the kazekage. He is really something.’ Scratching the back of his head, Naruto smiled, this is rather awkward. “Gaara how about we go to my place and talk. I am sure you, Kankuro, and Temari could use a rest.”

Gaara merely nodded.

When they reached the front gate, Naruto pushed open the door. Temari and Kankuro gasped, when did he get this place? Gaara looked slightly amused. So they decided that he does deserve respect that has been held from him for many years. Temari couldn’t believe her eyes. This place was huge, how had he gotten this place.

Almost as if reading her thoughts, “This place was the home of my family. I only just found out about it a few days ago.”

Temari was curious, “Who was your father, Naruto?”

Smiling uncomfortably, “That is a story for another time.” Turning to his guests, “You guys can stay here anytime you are in town. It is rather lonely here, but you know I think I will learn.” He smiled, but Temari couldn’t help but notice the sadness in his eyes. While in the main room Naruto explained a few things to his guests. “There are bedrooms on the right side of the court yard, and a hot spring in the third door on the left side of the court yard. Everything else I will let you find on your own time.”

Upon hearing this Temari got up and headed off to the hot spring in need for some relaxation; as she left the boys settled down on the cushions.
“I am sure you have heard the rumors of the treaty expiring soon.”

“Yes I have, is that why you are here?”

Gaara nodded, “Have you heard what else is going on, there is something that is also part of the treaty.”

“I guess you are talking about the arranged marriage. Yeah I know all about it.”

“I thought it was supposed to be kept a secret?” Gaara was slightly worried. Though he didn’t show it, he did care for his sister. “Do you know who Konoha has decided is going to be married?”

Naruto couldn’t help but fig it, “Me.” Kankuro spat out the tea that he had been drinking. Gaara looked unemotional, but in his head the wheels were turning at an unbelievable pace. So I don’t have to worry about the stupid council. They made a good decision. I can rest easy if Temari is going to be married to Naruto.

Kankuro was the first to recover, “Oh…Kami this is funny. T…” Gaara had shut Kankuro’s mouth with the sand.

“You know the rules on arranged marriages for this purpose. The names can’t be revealed.” Gaara said in a lethal way.