Chapter 35: The Path of Redemption

Within the tranquil confines of the Ryokan, Sakura observed the sun ascend over the horizon, casting its gentle glow upon the room. She sat in the family area, feeling a sense of regality she hadn't exceptionally experienced before, realizing the extent of her political influence. As she marveled at the dawn, the Nakai-San entered, offering a traditional bow of greeting.

"Good morning, Lady Sakura. I see you're up early," the Nakai-San remarked respectfully.

Savoring a delicate sip of her green tea, Sakura responded, "I couldn't sleep, so I came out here to witness the sunrise."

"I can only imagine, after everything you went through yesterday," the Nakai-San sympathized. "Some of us requested extra security to provide a sense of ease while we work. With their presence, we can rest easier, knowing we're protected from harm."

"That's reassuring. We'll be transporting our prisoner shortly after breakfast, so it's best to steer clear while we transfer him outside," Sakura advised.

"I'll make sure the other staff members are informed. Thank you," the Nakai-San acknowledged.

Soon after, the rest of the household joined them in the family area, gathering around the table to share the morning.

Kankuro settled beside Sakura, planting a tender peck on her cheek before turning to face her. His hand gently traced soothing circles on her back. "Are you feeling alright? I was looking forward to waking up beside you this morning," he inquired with genuine concern.

A soft smile graced Sakura's lips as she silently mulled her response. "The ordeal I endured last night kept my mind racing, contemplating what lies ahead," she finally confided.

Temari interjected, adding her perspective to the conversation. "Let's hope that once we're back in the village, your sleep patterns improve," she suggested optimistically.

Gaara's expression was severe, and he crossed his arms as he voiced his concerns. "Returning home may not bring immediate peace. We still face internal threats to destabilize the village, particularly against my leadership as Kazekage," he cautioned.

Sakura's voice rang out with conviction. "Rest assured, none of us will stand idly by if anyone dares to challenge you," she affirmed.

Gaara's lips curved into a tender smile as he leaned in to gently kiss Sakura's forehead, silently acknowledging her unwavering support for his position as Kazekage. Sakura, caught off guard by the unexpected display of affection, couldn't help but blush, a warm flush spreading across her cheeks at the sweet gesture.

Meanwhile, Kankuro's jaw dropped in disbelief, his eyes widening as he watched the interaction between his brother and Sakura. Despite his surprise, he quickly composed himself, playing it cool and maintaining his usual demeanor.

With a joyful twinkle in his eyes, Gaara redirected the conversation to breakfast. "So, what's on the menu for breakfast?"

As the Nakai-San engaged Gaara in conversation about the forthcoming breakfast, Kankuro leaned in towards Sakura, his touch gentle as he rested his hand on her shoulder. "Why did you let him kiss you on the forehead?"

Sakura turned towards him, her smile warm and reassuring. "He was just being kind," she responded, calm and confident. "He's aware of our relationship."

Kankuro took a deep breath, reluctantly accepting the situation. Though he wasn't thrilled about Gaara's gesture, he didn't want to escalate the matter into a confrontation. Sensing his simmering frustration, Sakura addressed his concern. "I'm sorry, it caught me off guard. I'll talk to him about it after breakfast," she offered.

But Kankuro shook his head, his annoyance evident. "No need. I don't want to give him the satisfaction of getting under my skin. He'd keep pushing buttons," he explained.

Sakura sighed softly, understanding his perspective. "I know, but at least once we're back home, we can focus on missions together," she suggested optimistically.

"Yeah, if he allows you," Kankuro muttered.

Their conversation was interrupted by Temari's sharp voice. "Hey, are you two paying attention to the Nakai-San? Stop whispering; it's distracting," she scolded.

Quickly, Sakura raised her hands in a placating gesture. "Sorry, we got carried away. We're listening now," she assured, hoping to diffuse the tension.

The Nakai-San presented the dishes gracefully, describing each one as she passed them around the table for the family to enjoy. "This morning's spread includes steaming hot white rice, savory miso soup, perfectly grilled fish, a delectable tofu dish, a flavorful egg dish, dried seaweed, and a medley of small fish and shellfish simmered in soy sauce and sugar," she explained with a warm smile. "If there's anything else you'd like, please don't hesitate to ask."

"The food is divine; thank you so much," Sakura graciously acknowledged.

With a graceful nod, the Nakai-San gracefully exited the room, leaving them to enjoy the sumptuous meal in peace.

Temari's mind was preoccupied with concerns for the village's safety. She said softly, "Perhaps we should depart sooner rather than later. Kenjiro poses a grave threat, and his escape could spell disaster for everyone."

Gaara continued to dine with poise, his confidence evident as he remarked, "I wouldn't fret over him. It seems he'd have quite the challenge breaking free from Kankuro's Iron Maiden technique."

Kankuro's pride shone through as he smirked, "My puppets are truly masterpieces. He stands no chance against them, especially with a basic jutsu like cloth manipulation."

Sakura remained silent, keeping her head down. Despite sharing Temari's concerns, she trusted her companions and wished this ordeal to be over.

Gaara noticed Sakura's hesitation and gently encouraged her, saying, "Your thoughts and opinions matter here. This is your journey, too, Sakura. Don't hesitate to speak up; your voice carries weight in these decisions."

Blushing, Sakura nodded in acknowledgment and replied, "I don't want to cause any conflicts by expressing my views. But I trust your judgment, Gaara."

Concern etched on his face, Gaara insisted, "No, Sakura, that won't do. You're an integral part of this team. From now on, you're leading the mission back home. You have the responsibility to ensure Kenjiro faces justice."

Meeting his gaze, Sakura's expression shifted to determination as she nodded firmly. With a grateful smile, she affirmed, "Thank you, Gaara. I won't disappoint you."

Confident in her abilities, Gaara replied, "I know you won't."

Sakura remained composed, biding her time until the last fork clinked against a plate, signaling the end of breakfast. With each passing second, the weight of leadership pressed upon her shoulders, the expectation of an impromptu address looming like a shadow.

As the Nakai-San efficiently cleared the remnants of their meal, Sakura and her companions rose from the table, their movements synchronized in readiness for their departure back to Sunagakure.

Sakura stepped out of her room and into the serene garden, her gaze drifting over the tranquil landscape. There, amidst the quiet beauty, she gathered her thoughts. A wave of unease gripped her stomach, an unsettling sensation that seemed to intensify with each passing moment. Nausea crept in, its persistence reminiscent of her early pregnancy days. Despite her efforts to calm her nerves, they held sway over her, casting a shadow over her thoughts.

She sought solace and stepped outside into the crisp air, hoping the fresh breeze would offer some respite from the churning turmoil within. Gradually, the tension ebbed, replaced by a faint glimmer of relief.

As Kankuro approached Sakura, he enveloped her in a comforting embrace, his voice a gentle murmur against her ear. "You don't need to make this decision hastily," he whispered, his breath reassuring.

Resting her head against his chest, Sakura exhaled a weary sigh; her words tinged with resolve. "I'd rather not prolong the inevitable. Let's depart sooner rather than later and spare me the burden of reencountering him."

Acknowledging her sentiment with a solemn nod, Kankuro stepped back. "Understood," he affirmed before retreating indoors. "He's my responsibility now. My men and I will make arrangements for his journey back."

Turning to face Kankuro, Sakura posed a question. "What will you do?" she inquired, her gaze searching his features for clues.

With a serene smile, Kankuro placed his hands behind his head; his demeanor relaxed yet resolute. "Nothing illegal," he quipped, his assurance carrying a note of sincerity. With a nod to his siblings, he departed the room, leaving Sakura to her solitude in the garden, the weight of their conversation lingering in the air.

Once Kankuro exited, Gaara trailed him, a silent resolve etched into his features. Together, they marched towards the perpetrator who had inflicted trauma upon Gaara's cherished Shinobi. In unison, they harbored a shared desire for the severe retribution that awaited this individual.

As the men departed, Temari gently looped her arm around Sakura's, guiding her back into the room with a comforting presence. "Are you prepared to leave?" she inquired softly, her tone brimming with empathy.

Sakura nodded in agreement, a hint of melancholy tingeing her voice. "Yes, as much as I've enjoyed this place, I don't think I'll be stepping into an Onsen anytime soon," she admitted, her words weighed down by the trauma she had endured.

Temari offered words of solace. "It's understandable, given what you've been through. But remember, everything will eventually be alright—at least, for now," she reassured Sakura, gently encouraging Her through the hallway.

As they walked, the staff members lining the corridor paid their respects to Sakura, some shedding tears for the loss of their friend. Though overwhelmed by their display of emotion, Sakura harbored a sense of responsibility, knowing that her mission to ensure her father faced justice was paramount.

Temari gently offered support to break the somber silence enveloping their journey through the labyrinthine corridors. "If you need a pause for any reason, don't hesitate to ask, alright? You know Kankuro would do anything for you, so don't lie to us," she suggested, her voice infused with genuine concern.

Sakura's words dripped with heartfelt appreciation. "I should manage, but your unwavering support means the world. I can't thank you enough," she replied earnestly.

Temari's smile radiated warmth as she responded, "We're just relieved to see you safe and sound."

Exiting the building together, they saw the waiting Litter positioned conveniently by the steps, ready for Sakura's descent. At the rear of the procession, Sakura's father stood, a forlorn figure in tattered attire, his identity obscured by a paper bag covering his head. Shackled by wrists and ankles, he was escorted by solemn Shinobi, his journey to his final fate underway.

Sakura maintained her composure, refusing to acknowledge her father's presence as she settled comfortably inside the Litter. Beside her, Gaara joined her, his stoic presence and silent reassurance amidst the tension. Meanwhile, Temari and Kankuro assumed their positions, flanking the Litter as they prepared to escort Sakura on her journey.

Kenjiro's voice, muffled by the paper bag covering his head, broke the uneasy silence with his biting words. "Remarkable how my daughter became powerful as an Empress, and to think Gaara wasn't killed yet after all those assassination attempts, let alone hold the title of Kazekage," he sneered, his tone dripping with bitterness.

Ignoring his provocations, the group pressed on, the Shinobi covering the Litter and setting it in motion with Temari and Kankuro as guardians on either side. Kenjiro's laughter echoed hollowly; his attempts at engagement met with stubborn silence from the group.

"Why won't anyone talk to me? Did I strike a nerve?" he taunted, but his words held no power as the group maintained their steadfast resolve.

As Sakura's fingers clenched into fists, she gazed out into the vast expanse of sand, her voice a mere whisper carried away by the desert wind. "I know I shouldn't let my father's words affect me, but it's hard when they're so hurtful," she confessed, her frustration palpable.

Turning his head towards her, Gaara's expression remained impassive as he responded with steely resolve. "He's not just a traitor to our village but a despicable pig whose actions will have consequences," he affirmed, his tone unwavering.

Seeking reassurance, Sakura inquired about the duration of her father's presence. "How long will I have to endure his presence?" she asked, her voice tinged with apprehension.

With a reassuring tone, Gaara offered solace. "It's only for one night. Rest assured, none of us will sleep until you can rest easy," he assured her, his pledge firm.

Though a flicker of worry lingered in her eyes, Sakura smiled gratefully at Gaara's comforting words. Keeping her gaze fixed on the horizon, she basked in the warmth of the sunlight on her skin, finding solace in the knowledge that her family stood steadfast by her side.

The tranquil silence shattered as Kenjiro, flanked by guards, stumbled unexpectedly and emitted a startled yelp. Despite the mishap, his voice, muffled by the bag covering his head, pierced through the air with a request. "Could you possibly remove these shackles? They're hindering my movement," he pleaded, his tone strained.

Maintaining their stern composure, the Shinobi remained resolute, their gaze fixed ahead as one responded firmly. "We'll only do so upon Lady Sakura's command," he asserted, his voice unwavering.

Undeterred, Kenjiro persisted, his demand tinged with impatience. "Then let me speak with her and request the release of my restraints," he insisted, his words punctuated by his desperation to be free.

Kankuro clenched his jaw, the grating sound of Kenjiro's voice testing his patience. With steely resolve, he averted his gaze towards the horizon, unwilling to escalate the tension further. He knew he must maintain his composure for Sakura's sake, refusing to let his anger consume him.

Breaking the silence, Temari deviated from her path and slowed her pace to confront Kenjiro. With a determined frown, she ripped off the bag covering his head, revealing the makeshift blindfold. In a swift motion, she delivered a resounding slap across his face before swiftly covering his eyes again, leaving him stunned in disbelief.

The group watched in astonishment at Temari's audacious act, their expressions a mixture of shock and admiration. With a chilling warning, Temari silenced any potential protest, her words laced with authority. "Consider yourself fortunate we showed restraint from dicing your balls off," she admonished, her voice hinting at menace.

With a decisive stride, Temari rejoined the formation, her demeanor unchanged as she fell back into line alongside Gaara and Sakura. 

Sakura shifted her gaze towards Gaara, her eyes filled with curiosity. "Do you think we could attempt that?" she inquired.

Gaara turned his head towards Sakura, a furrow forming on his brow. He responded firmly, "No, that's not something we can consider. It's unethical and goes against our principles. I'm surprised you even suggested it, but I will it give you a pass given the situation."

Sakura's arms folded tightly across her chest, her expression resembling that of a disgruntled child. She bit back any retort, choosing silence over the risk of escalating the disagreement into a public confrontation. Meanwhile, Kenjiro's voice cut through the air like a sharp blade. "This is unacceptable," he declared, his words dripping with resentment. "Striking a prisoner who's already bound in shackles is undeniably illegal."

Kankuro retorted firmly, "As advisors to the Kazekage, we maintain authority within reason. Given your ongoing chatter, these circumstances are anything but ordinary."

Beads of sweat dripped down Kenjiro's forehead, pooling under the bag covering his head. He was acutely aware that a single misstep could lead to dire consequences—perhaps even losing his head. Despite the looming threat, he couldn't help but mutter aloud, "None of this mess would have occurred if I had just taken her out from the start. I could have kept her body preserved forever, but I prefer my women warm." 

Gaara's expression contorted into a fierce scowl, his eyes widening with intensity. As he issued his command, "Effective immediately, there will be no further communication with the prisoner. Should he persist in his insolence, take whatever measures necessary to silence him," it seemed like steam might erupt from his very being.

Kankuro scoffed; he said, "Just say the word, Gaara," he muttered tersely.

Kenjiro fell into a foreboding silence, fearing the consequences of any further words uttered. After traveling a considerable distance, they reached the halfway point to the Hidden Sand Village. The procession halted, and they carefully lowered the Litter, allowing Sakura and Gaara to step out and stretch their legs, enjoying fresh air and respite. Little did they know, it would be their final moment of peace for a long while.