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Shikamaru has been in Suna for almost two weeks to take care of things in preparation for his wedding with Temari. The couple has done the same in Konoha before coming to Temari’s homeland. Providing the necessary documents they need as his fiancé will relocate in the Leaf village. The proceedings were a bit complicated considering their ranking and the people involved.
More matters to bear in mind as it includes not one but of two nations. The venue of their wedding, the date of the ceremony, tradition of the two village, guests lists and so on and so forth. It was troublesome and tiring, but every time Shikamaru sees Temari he knew he can endure all of this, even if it’s a drag. Because with Temari and for Temari, he can do anything.
The agenda in their list for today was to have a discussion with the Suna council. The sand Kunoichi told him that it was fine even if they disregard the request. She was annoyed, aware that they were opposed with the marriage.
Whether she marry outside of Suna or not, it has nothing to do with the elders. It was of her own decision, and even if they disagree with the engagement, the wedding will still take place. As Temari had said, she will marry him, move to Konoha, and form her own family there. The council doesn’t exist in the equation.
However, Shikamaru accepted their request. The meeting was not just for the council, as there were citizens who doubt him. It was like the council was there to represent their and the peoples’ claim. He understood where they were coming from. Temari is one, if not best, of Suna’s exceptional tactician, the greatest wind user, and the land’s princess. Who would let a royalty marry someone of not the same status as her?
But for him, Temari is way more than her status. A fierce, incredible, powerful woman who moves as swiftly as the wind. Strong in mind and has an unshakable spirit. A beauty that flourished in the harshest way possible. He believes that Temari is way too good for him, but in a different sense compared to what they perceive. And he is willing to enter the lion’s den to fight for this relationship.
Shikamaru knows how much the people of Suna love and respect Temari, and so does she to them. As her lover, her future husband, the father of their future child, he wishes that they would see that his love is pure, and his intention is genuine. That he is worthy of her. And that no treasure nor jutsu can change the fact that their bond developed through time until it turned to love.
Never did he thought of going such length to be with a woman. Yet here he was, awake before even the sun rise, determined to prove that his love for her goes beyond politics and power.
So lost in thought, he did not feel his presence not until he stood next to him.
“Shikamaru.” Baki greeted. “You know I’ll be there on the meeting as part of the council. I am not against your marriage as I’ve seen how your relationship bloomed. I trust that what you have is greater than the political aspects that some thinks of.”
The shadow-nin looked back at him, feelings of gratitude filled him as he heard his statement. Baki has been in Temari’s life since she was a kid. He was her mentor, but more than that, he treated the siblings not just as his student but like a family. Learning that Baki approves of him is a boost to his confidence.
“Thank you, Baki.” Shikamaru replied.
“But, let me ask you one thing.” The shift in his voice, from friendly to serious was evident.
Shikamaru nod in response, waiting for what comes next.
“Who is Temari for you?”
The question was simple. There were a lot of answers he can think of.
But as Shikamaru ponders on the question, his moments with Temari flashed in his mind, replaying the scenarios that led them to where they are now. How troublesome she was during the chunin exam, her intimidating presence in the battlefield, her voice that wakes him from his reverie, the way her eyes go soft when she worries, her bright smile that cleared his heart, and how they perfectly fit together. Temari who has seen him in his highest and lowest.
He stared at the horizon, the sun starting to wake from its sleep. He feels the warmth that it radiates all over his body.
He smiled and then gently answered, “Temari is the one certainty amidst a thousand doubts.”