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Uzushiogakure was undeniably the most peaceful place that Shikamaru has ever had the pleasure of living in, sleeping in, etc. The waves washed against the land, people bustled in thin crowds through the markets, and the fields were full of flowers as the sky was full of clouds.
He stretched his arms out before crossing therm behind his head as he laid in his favorite field on the island.
After arriving to Uzushio, he had almost immediately gravitated toward this field. The soft swaying of the flowers and quiet sounds of the ocean did wonders for his relaxation.
Because of his frequent visits to the field, the Uzukage had kindly dubbed it “Field Nara.”
He was flattered by this as he was amused. Shikamaru sighed and looked up at the breathtaking sigh, paying no mind to the soft footsteps that trekked toward the field. He listened to the distant sounds of Genin laughing with their Sensei’s and his eyes fluttered closed as the calming embrace of Uzushio washed over him.
As he continued to bask in the field, someone took a seat by him before laying back right next to him. He didn’t bother cracking an eye open before speaking.
“Uzukage-Sama, if you complain about me being the cause your robes get dirty, I’ll make you name the sea around us after me.” The Godaime Uzukage chuckled before sighing.
“No, I won’t nag you about it this time, I guess. If you really do want the sea named after you, I could work somethin’ out, maybe.” Shikamaru didn’t doubt his words for a second, which slightly scared him.
“Backtrack it there— that was a joke Godiame, please do not name the literal sea that had surrounded this island for longer than my bloodline after me.” Shikamaru quickly said, causing the Uzukage to scoff.
“You didn’t think I was serious, right? I would never disrespect Uzushio like that!” Shikamaru side eyed the Uzukage before scoffing as he crossed his arms.
“Alright then, be rude I guess.” He muttered before the two fell into silence. It was a nice, calm silence. The Godaime had been caught up in rebuilding while also learning fuinjutsu while also trying to find out how to break the Caged Bird Seal. He could tell that he’d almost made a break through with the peppy mood he seemed to be in, though.
Shikamaru on the other hand, had been training while also helping with construction. He more so lifted heavy things up and moved them around for others. At least he was getting his training in.
The Uzukage moved his hand up to rub the temple of this forehead, and Shikamaru looked over at him as if he sensed his Uzukage’s troubles.
“Konoha is looking for us.” The Uzukage states, hesitance and slight discomfort in his voice. Shikamaru nods, hadn’t this been common knowledge? Of course they would be searching for them, the village’s Jinchuuriki and heir of the Nara clan have disappeared, along with Sunagakure’s Jinchuuriki.
“No, they’re not just searching aimlessly Shika, they’ve someone found our general area while getting closer by the week.” Their progress sounded quite slow, but alarming nonetheless. Shikamaru cleared his throat.
“Have you talked with the ANBU commander?” Shikamaru asks, the Uzukage nods in distraught.
“He has shinobi patrolling inside of the seal barriers, but I’m still worried. I just… there’s this overwhelming sense of anticipation and fear that I’ve been feeling.” The Uzukage says, his eyebrows furrowed with worry. Shikamaru adjusts himself to face the Godaime.
“Ne, ne Godiame-Sama. We’ll be safe here. The land is sentient, we have multiple Jinchuuriki here, as well as ex ANBU and Akatsuki. And if push comes to shove,” Shikamaru reaches out and grabs Naruto’s hands, wrapping his own around the Uzukage’s.
“ I’ll make sure the village is safe. More importantly, I’ll make sure you’re safe.” He declares, determination and love blazing in his eyes. Naruto feels overcome with feelings.
He grins at Shikamaru and moves just a tad closer to him, slotting his head in the Nara’s neck as he sighs a breath of relief.
“Thank you, Nara.”