NOVEL NEXT Chapter 96: Entered Suna
As we moved deeper into Suna, I could see how harsh and unforgiving the environment was. The rocky terrain surrounding the village acted as a natural barrier, protecting it from outside threats but also isolating it within this intense desert climate. Sand swept across the ground in every gust, and the dry air seemed to pull moisture straight from the skin.
Despite these conditions, the people of Suna seemed to move through their daily lives with a quiet resilience. Children played in the shade, shopkeepers called out to potential customers, and shinobi trained rigorously under the relentless sun. It was clear that the people here had adapted to their environment, creating harmony in a place where survival alone would be challenging.
Looking around, I could understand why Suna would struggle with resources. The climate made it nearly impossible to grow crops, and water was scarce. This village, so different from Konoha with its forests, rivers, and abundant land, needed a reliable supply chain to thrive. In Konoha, resources were plentiful, and we had fertile soil and clean water in abundance. Here, it was a constant battle against nature itself.
The situation put into perspective why Suna had been so desperate for support, not just in terms of resources but in alliances that could offer stability. Seeing all of this firsthand made me more determined to do my part in the negotiations. If we could strengthen ties and provide a sense of security, it might lead to a brighter future for both villages.
As we walked deeper into the village, I began to understand just how challenging it must be for them. The ground was parched, the buildings made from sand and clay to withstand the climate, and the air was thick with dust. Water seemed to be rationed carefully, and I saw some children filling small containers from a communal well.
"It's amazing," I said, glancing around. "They manage to live here with so little. No wonder they were willing to fight for resources — they probably feel like they have no other choice."
Sakura nodded, looking thoughtful. "In Konoha, we have rivers, forests, and fertile land. Here, they're surviving on limited food and water. It puts a lot into perspective."
Shikaku-ojisan overheard us and nodded in agreement. "Exactly. The scarcity here has shaped Suna's culture and politics. This mission is more than just negotiations. We're here to help Suna, but also to understand their struggles."
As we continued walking, I could see that the villagers were eyeing us curiously. Some looked wary, others just seemed tired. But I also noticed a few familiar faces waiting ahead, including Temari, Kankuro, and even Gaara. Seeing them felt like a reassurance that our time here might lead to something positive.
"Hey, Temari, how have you been?" I asked her warmly, happy to see a familiar face here in Suna.
"I'm doing fine, Naruto. How have you been?" she replied, a smile lighting up her face.
"I'm good! And how are you both?" I asked Gaara and Kankuro, who responded quietly.
"We're... good," they mumbled, not quite meeting my eyes.
Sensing something was off, I leaned closer to Temari and whispered, "Is everything alright?"
She chuckled softly. "It's nothing serious, Naruto. They're just a bit shy around outsiders, especially Konoha shinobi. After all, we were on opposing sides until recently."
"Fair enough," I replied, nodding in understanding.
Turning back to Gaara and Kankuro, I grinned. "Come on, you two! There's no need to be shy around me. I mean, I'm going to be your brother-in-law one day. Plus, we're fellow jinchuriki—there's no reason to keep a distance."
Both of their eyes widened in surprise. "Wait... you're a jinchuriki too?"
I laughed. "Yeah! I'm the jinchuriki of the Nine-Tails. Didn't anyone tell you?"
They shook their heads, still processing the news. "No, we didn't know."
"It's okay," I said, smiling. "Just means we have more in common than you thought. So, don't worry—I get what it's like."
With that, the tension seemed to ease a bit. They exchanged glances, maybe realizing that I wasn't just another outsider.
Temari looked at me with a surprised smile. "You really are full of surprises, Naruto."
Gaara, usually so stoic, looked at me with new understanding in his eyes. "I didn't know you carried that burden too." His voice was quiet, but there was a warmth there—a sense of shared experience.
"Yeah," I said, "we've both had to live with being Jinchuriki. I know how hard it can be, but I believe it's also something that can bring people together. We're more than just the beasts inside of us, and we've got more in common than most people realize."
Kankuro scratched the back of his head, looking a bit awkward but softening. "Guess you're not like the other Konoha shinobi we've met before."
"No, I can't say I was completely isolated," I began, reflecting on my own experience. "I wasn't isolated because of my father, the Fourth Hokage, Minato. He was a hero to all the villagers, and they treated me kindly. However, I did hear stories from my mother, the previous Jinchūriki, about how she was isolated. No one came near her until my father took her in and captured her heart. That was the love story between them. Because of both of them, I wasn't isolated like other Jinchūriki. But that doesn't mean I don't understand your feelings. As a fellow Jinchūriki and your future brother-in-law, I will help with anything you need," I said sincerely.
"Thanks, Naruto," Gaara replied, his voice softer than usual.
Suddenly, Temari's voice interrupted, her tone sharp. "Naruto, what are you talking about, 'brother-in-law'? When did we become lovers?"
I couldn't help but smirk. "No, but we could become one, as that's one of the reasons I'm here—unless you don't like me," I teased, leaning closer to her.
Temari flushed, her expression turning bright red. "No... what are you talking about?" she stammered.
Before I could say anything more, Sakura stepped in, pulling me back. "Naruto, stop teasing her."
"Don't mind him," Sakura continued, flashing a playful smile. "He's always like that with people he likes. But if you decide to become his lover, then we'll be sisters," she added, winking at me.
Temari raised an eyebrow. "Sisters? What do you mean by that?"
"Don't worry," Sakura said. "I'm sure he'll explain everything soon."
I let out a sigh, realizing Sakura had set the stage for something I wasn't prepared for. It seemed like I was in for more than I bargained for.
Before I could react, Temari grabbed my hand and pulled me toward the village. "Come on, Naruto. Let's go," she said, her voice still carrying a hint of frustration.
"Guys, you can continue. I have some business to finish, so I'll see you later," I said, glancing back at the others before running off with Temari.
"Let's head to the negotiation, everyone," Shikaku said, ushering the others toward the Kage office.