The halls of the Hyuuga palace were brightly lit and sunshine poured in from the outside freely. The idle chatter of servants on a break or working guards lingered in the cool air of the springtime. Fire Country was at peace, and everyone was happy. The beautiful palace was home to Konoha’s royal family, the powerful Hyuuga clan. Despite reasons to believe otherwise, the stuffy Hyuugas were actually fair and responsible rulers. That was probably why they weren’t overthrown. Hyuuga Hiashi controlled his kingdom with a gently padded iron fist. His shrewdness and his uncanny ability to see through any deception ensured such that no one defied him. With his trusted nephew and his immense spy network serving him, Hiashi had been able to change his kingdom from the decrepit dying nation that his father left behind to a thriving and proud country. Unfortunately, despite his political prowess, Hyuuga Hiashi was poorly unprepared for fatherhood.

He genuinely cared for his daughters, don’t get him wrong, but he was also prone to showing unabashed favoritism to his younger daughter, Hanabi. It was human nature to side with the strong, and Hanabi was definitely stronger than his elder daughter, Hinata. Neji was going to be king when he passed on, that he had made extremely clear, but that didn’t stop Hanabi from competing – and crushing – Hinata. It was only when Hinata turned eighteen did things get out of hand.

Only two years younger than Hinata, Hanabi was also of marrying age. She didn’t want to get married. She had yet to prove that she was a valuable asset to Hiashi, and didn’t want to be cut off from the Hyuuga court when she did get married. Hinata was an adequate fighter – but did not match up to the prodigy Neji, the talented Hanabi, or even the skilled weapons’ mistress TenTen – so it was easy to overlook her there in that aspect, but Hinata made up for her lack of power in other ways. Hinata was sincere and kind. She inspired loyalty and had a good head for politics and court matters. She was the ideal politician, the perfect representative of the Hyuuga clan, and a symbol of chaste womanhood. Hanabi couldn’t possibly compete with that. She was coarse, sarcastic, and wily. She set people on edge even if she was trying her hardest to reassure them.

Recently, Hiashi was spending more time with Hinata, trying to hone her skills and send her off to various places as a diplomat for him. Hiashi was never one for idle chatter, but Hinata was an expert at extracting information from people. Hanabi knew that Hiashi was slowly coming to depend on Hinata like he did Neji. If Hinata wasn’t taken out of the picture soon, Hanabi will find herself in a carriage being shipped off to her husband faster than she could blink! And that was why Hanabi devised a plan while Hinata was away on a diplomatic trip and unable to protect herself. Hinata will be married off to the Prince of Wind Country soon enough.

Hyuuga Hiashi was a little suspicious of his daughter’s intentions when she had suggested a marriage for Hinata. Hanabi was never kind enough to look out for anyone’s best interest besides her own. He may act like he was unaware of the events going on in his own home, but he was vastly aware of the bitter one-sided rivalry between his two daughters. However, Hiashi lifted the parchment that Hanabi had given him and read the contents thoughtfully, a marriage between Wind and Fire would do them well. Already, he was imagining new trade routes opening and a few grandchildren. Looking back to the expectant face of his youngest daughter, Hiashi nodded, “I will take some time to consider this union, Hanabi. It will be an advantageous match. However, I will need to see how the Wind thinks of this.”

“There is no need, father.” Hanabi said slyly, pulling out another piece of parchment, this time, it bore the mark of the royal seal of the Wind. “I have secured an answer from the Wind. They are more than susceptible to the idea of having Hinata as their daughter-in-law.”

Hiashi growled. Hanabi wanted Hinata gone so badly she had acted on her own? There may be a viper in his own nest. With haste, he snatched the letter from his daughter and skimmed its contents. They liked the idea of having a delicate flower in their coarse land. The Sabaku family was losing support from the public, Hiashi knew very well. They were probably hoping that such an ideal representative, a diplomatic Hinata, would soothe the angry hordes and gain their love and loyalty much like how Hinata gained the loyalty of the people of Fire. “You have no right to act out on your own, Hanabi.” Hinata would be in danger if things turned bad and it seemed like a bad political move if he withdrew from the intended match when supposedly, Fire Country had approached them first. Hinata will have to at least meet the intended Prince. It was a fine mess Hanabi got her into, and no doubt, Hanabi was vastly satisfied. “You will be punished.”

“Yes, father.” Hanabi bowed meekly. It was to be expected of course, and Hanabi didn’t mind. As long as Hinata was gone, it was fine by her.

“Report to Neji. He’ll deal with you appropriately.” Hanabi paled. Neji had a soft spot for Hinata and definitely wouldn’t take too kindly to her attempts to ship her away to an unstable country – and most likely, to her death.

“Y-Yes, father, I understand.” Hanabi left with one final bow, leaving Hiashi to his thoughts.

---

When Hinata arrived back home from her trip to Thunder Country, she had not expected such grim expression on her family’s faces upon her arrival. The scheming court lady inside her knew that something large had occurred while she was away. Blinking innocently, Hinata stepped forward to greet her family before taking a seat at the large dining table they were sitting at currently. “Father, Neji-nii-san, Hanabi. Is there something that I should know of?” She asked immediately. She hated being left out and in the dark for that proved to be dangerous in her position. She was second-in-line to the throne unless Neji finally managed to produce children. It was a private family dinner tonight for it was her first night back into Fire Country. Tomorrow, there will be a feast to celebrate her return.

“As a matter of fact, there is.” Neji said, and the way he spoke put Hinata on edge. His tone was low and dangerous. Hinata narrowed her eyes. Although this was a private family dinner, rarely did Neji act so rude. He only used that tone on TenTen when she disagreed with him, the weapons mistress and the secret object of his affections. “Should I inform Hinata-sama of the wonderful news, Hiashi-sama?”

What wonderful news? It seemed like Neji was about to announce a death sentence. Hiashi nodded, a look of defeat seemed to cross her usually stern and undefeatable father. Hinata felt an icy shower of dread settle around her. The feeling of unease only intensified when Hinata caught sight of Hanabi’s smug expression. Hinata may be kind and forgiving, but after catching Hanabi snooping in her room for the fifth time, she knew that Hanabi was out to get her. “You have a suitor, Hinata-sama.” Hinata paled.

“I-is that so?” Hinata asked shakily, a little relieved. It was high time she got married anyways and she had never held secret longings for true love or anything as such. She was second-in-line to the throne and any marriage she should enter would only befit her rank and status. Political marriages weren’t a foreign concept to her and although Hinata didn’t want to marry a stranger, she trusted her Father and Neji to look out for her best intentions. She pressed a napkin to her lips gingerly and returned it to its place with deliberate movements. She was stalling for time and grasping the fading tethers of what used to be her composure. “And who is this g-gentleman?”

“A prince of the Sabaku family.”

---

Although Hinata had been assured that it was just a trial run and she could back out of the arrangement if she did not believe that the prince was adequate, Hinata knew she couldn’t. After dinner, she had excused herself to her room, claiming that she needed rest from her trip. She left her father, cousin, and sister quickly, and broke into an outright run once she was in the vicinity of her chambers. She almost bowled over TenTen, who was on her way to find Neji, but didn’t stop to apologize. She was in no mood for chitchat.

The Sabaku family ruled the Wind Country, a neighbour of Fire Country. They had uneasy relations and Hinata could tell that the marriage would prove very advantageous. There was another problem. The royal family was a bunch of freaks. They were even more cutthroat than her extended family and twice as poisonous. The current king also has quite a number of sons from many wives. She had no idea who she’ll be married to – and she was getting married. She’ll just have to wait and see of course. Perhaps there would be an upheaval, a revolution, and the Sabaku family would be overthrown. She understands that their situation and their claim on the throne teetered precariously at the moment.

Immediately after thinking the thought, she felt awful. How could she wish ill of so many people, people she had no right to judge? Throwing herself onto the rich voluminous blankets that were on her comfortably bed, Hinata sighed. She had taken a relaxing soak in the baths, but that did nothing to soothe her frayed nerves. Even the faint smell of lavender wafting from her impossibly soft pillow did nothing. She tossed and turned all night, her mind focused on a faceless man she was going to meet in a week’s time. Her cousin had told her that they were coming, a little warning. She doubts that she’ll be able to sleep at all. Eventually, Hinata did fall asleep, in the dark time that connected day and night. She didn’t wake until the mid-afternoon, and was surprised that no one woke her. Neji was supposed to be training with her today. It was probably due to TenTen’s insistence. TenTen could get Neji to do anything and Hinata was pretty sure TenTen knew it too.

---

TenTen was not a happy camper. Just because she had insisted that Neji – the annoying and arrogant heir to the throne – not rouse Hinata from her sleep, he had taken it upon himself to spend his time with her. Hinata had looked a mess when she had crossed paths that night, and knowing the shy but thoughtful Hinata, she had probably tossed and turned all night before getting to sleep. That was why she had taken it upon herself to guard her door from any unwanted disturbances, or rather, one Hyuuga Neji. Shooting an irritated glance at the man that was walking a few paces in front of her, TenTen sighed quietly.

She had no idea why he even bothered staying with her. She was just a simple weapons mistress and blacksmith. She made weapons, she used weapons, and she’ll probably marry a weapon. She wasn’t well-educated or pretty, and all they ever did was argue, yet this man always returned for round two. Right now, they were currently trying to ignore one another while spending time with one another. Admittedly it was hard to ignore him. He was handsome, TenTen loathed to admit it, even to herself. After a few more minutes of awkward silence, TenTen coughed and started the conversation, as she was oft to do. “So, Neji, what’s wrong with Hinata-sama?” She never bothered with honorifics with him. Although others were shocked and scandalized at her casual reference to him, he didn’t seem to mind. It seemed like he liked it.

“Nothing is wrong with Hinata, TenTen.” His low voice rung through the quiet of the garden they were strolling through. TenTen eyed the bright flowers around her and then the man before her with equal distaste.

“Then explain to me why she was crying her eyes out and running to her chambers last night?” TenTen demanded, putting her hands on her waist. Neji didn’t even turn around, the prince merely continued to walk. TenTen growled out in irritation, he was such a prick! He felt that he could just ignore her, just because he could and when she didn’t want to go out with him, he would pout, sulk, and glower until she gave in. “Neji, tell me!” She ran up to him, although careful to never walk in front of him. She was also careful not to touch him. She may be his preferred companion – and his constant irritant – but that did not mean she should break all protocol.

There was a silence, and TenTen shrugged. It seemed like he wasn’t going to tell her after all. Although she could easily try beating it out of him, laying a hand on the Crown Prince was treason. She’d rather have her head attached to her neck, thank you very much. TenTen almost tripped and landed on her face when he spoke, “Hanabi had taken the liberty of arranging a marriage for Hinata.”

“What?” TenTen hissed out sharply. She wasn’t surprised. It was such a Hanabi-move to pull. “I thought political marriages were the norm in your society. Hinata-sama should be expecting this.”

Neji had nothing to say to that. It was expected, but it still hurt all the same. “Would you like an arranged marriage, TenTen?” He asked loftily, never breaking his pace or turning back to see her expression. The idea of TenTen getting married – obviously not to him – brought a wave of longing to crash onto him. Neji shook it off silently.

TenTen, although shocked by the question, laughed. Neji never asked her questions that were so personal. They usually talked about Fire Country, the weather, her weaponry, his day, her day, neutral topics. To her surprise, TenTen found herself answering the prince, “Well, for one, I wouldn’t have to have an arranged marriage. I’m not high-ranking nobility, silly.” Again, she was given many liberties, TenTen realized, if anyone should call him ‘silly’ they’d be on the ground begging for mercy. What was with today? She seemed rather insightful.

“But royalty have the right to arrange anything they want.” Neji said slowly, mulling over his words carefully before saying them. He slowed his pace and walked a little more quietly to make out TenTen’s own footsteps. She may try to run away, which wasn’t in her nature but he would rather be safe than sorry. It was rare that they got to discuss such personal matters and he wouldn’t pass up this chance.

“Is that a threat?” TenTen asked, her voice wavering. She had never thought of that, but now that she was reminded of the fact that Neji did have that power…she sorely regretted all those times she had treated him so disrespectfully. Although it probably wasn’t in his nature to chain her to someone out of spite, she could never tell with that enigmatic prince.

“Of course not, TenTen.” Neji said sternly. TenTen nodded, and they settled into a surprisingly comfortable silence. From the window, Hyuuga Hiashi watched the pair walk away, rounding a corner, and disappearing from view. It was good that Neji had a close friend to rely on. Of course, their friendship could develop into something more, but as long as TenTen was oblivious, friendship was the only thing Neji will get from the woman.

---

Later in the afternoon, after their walk, TenTen found herself sitting on Hinata’s wonderful bed – so much softer than her own – and idly wondering if Neji’s bed was just as soft. TenTen flushed. Probably not, she thought. If beds represented their owner’s personality, then his bed was probably as hard and cold as a slate of marble. “So you’ve heard.” Hinata had stated when she had first caught sight of TenTen, her pale eyes weighted down by the burden of her loss of freedom and impending doom. TenTen twitched: perhaps she was being a little dramatic. Hinata had actually seemed rather calm and collected when she had greeted her and allowed her entrance into her chambers.

Hinata was currently getting ready for dinner. There was going to be a feast to celebrate her return and the successful peace talks between Fire Country and Thunder Country. As if they could expect anything less from Hinata-sama. TenTen thought warmly. She had volunteered to help her prepare, but in actuality, she had just done so for Hinata’s sanity. Hinata was more than able to prepare herself, she just didn’t like maids gossiping and stressing her out while she was trying to find calm before going out to face the court. As for TenTen, she was more than content to watch.

TenTen never attended the parties even when invited. She could tell that she would not belong and definitely wouldn’t enjoy their idea of fun. Dealing with Neji was enough for her. Being stuck with a hall full of Neji-clones for hours on end just wasn’t appealing. Besides, her pedigree isn’t something to be proud of either way. It was better to just sit and be content with stories from Hinata, and on the occasion, Neji.

Hinata was currently shuffling around her large vanity, looking for whatever she was looking for. Although TenTen was aching to ask, she knew better than to ruin Hinata’s mood before she even went out. She needed a stable mind to deal with those vultures out there. TenTen was always amazed by how easily Hinata parried and dealt with the jaded and insulting words people said, all wrapped in smooth pretenses and polite smiles. It was more complicated than any technique or crafting any weapon.

Slipping into routine, TenTen slid off of Hinata’s bed just as Hinata found what she was looking for – this time, an earring. “Are you ready, Hinata-sama?” TenTen asked neutrally, her eyes taking in the sight of Hinata. She was dressed in a soft confection of light blue. She looked absolutely heavenly and TenTen wasn’t against telling her so. Hinata flushed under her praise but nodded gratefully. Hinata stepped out into the grand hallway and waited until TenTen closed the door behind them. But that was when they parted ways. As per usual, Neji was waiting at the door to escort Hinata to the hall. With a quick exchange of nods, Hinata was transferred into the arms of her cousin. TenTen turned to leave, but not before hearing Hinata chiding her cousin once more. She heard a snippet. “You really should tell her –” But tell who what? She watched the cousins – so majestic and regal – leave before walking away herself.

---

The palace grounds were extremely peaceful in the evenings. Considering the fact that their country was all but on the brink of a revolution, it was rather unnerving to find such a peaceful place in the very center of the unstable country. There have been rumours that their father was considering a match for any one of them with Hyuuga Hinata. It wasn’t until this evening, when their father had announced that they were going to Fire Country for a visit, did Gaara really begin to put more weight into those rumours. The one to marry the woman had not been announced yet, but he sorely hoped that it wasn’t him.

He doubted it was him as well. He was first in line to the throne and his father would rather swallow his own foot than to allow Hyuuga Hiashi so close to his throne. Around him, his brothers were making a ruckus, as usual. The only woman he ever tolerated, his sister, was beside him. Temari was a year older than him, and had quite skillfully arranged a marriage for herself to Nara Shikamaru a few years ago. Their father had wanted to make her Hyuuga Neji’s wife, but Temari acted too fast. It was only recently did the man allow her back to court – and that was only after the brothers insisted.

Although their family – like everyone else claimed them to be – was quite messed up, the royal children did form bonds amongst themselves that would last throughout their lifetimes. The court of Wind was quite bloody and it wouldn’t do well to not have allies. Their family was a complex one and even their own kin couldn’t tell their relations to one another but it was essential to be able to discern who was an ally and who was an enemy waiting to smother you in your sleep. That was something they all learned at a young age.

Gaara’s mother was Miki, the first wife of King Jin. She had died giving birth to him. Her dying wish was that Gaara was to be King. Surprisingly – Jin actually was fond of his wife – agreed readily. The next wife and the sister of the late Miki, Kanna, was a pretty thing who had also died three months after their marriage, giving birth to Jin’s second son and Gaara’s cousin, and closest friend, Naruto. It was then that Jin married Sasabi, his longtime mistress. She had already had Kankurou, who was four years older than Gaara, and then Temari, a year older than Gaara, while Jin was married to Miki. If Sasabi had been married to Jin, Kankurou would’ve been the crown prince, but alas, too bad. After a few years, Sasabi lost her appeal and she was quickly shoved aside to rot away in a backwater palace separated from her children, Jin married Fuyu, a common nobody. Fuyu gave him two sons, Kazuo, 16, and Tiki, 13, but was also disposed of after being caught in the arms of Miki’s brother, Yashamaru, almost a decade ago. Yashamaru was also sentenced to death. His daughter disappeared a few days after his death. Gaara didn’t remember much about the girl besides the fact that she had been a close playmate as well. She was probably dead. No one survived the deserts of Wind, let alone a little girl. Not too long later, Haruna became Wind Country’s fifth Queen. She had been the mistress of Jin and had already given him Inaya, a daughter that was a year younger than Kazuo. Afterwards, Kimiko was born, a year younger than Tiki. Haruna desperately tried to conceive another son, but failed. She was killed off; supposedly, she had died of food poisoning. Jin then married another woman named Temari, and had another son named Hoshi, who is ten years old. Temari ran away with her lover, leaving her son. Eight years ago, a newborn boy was introduced to them as Prince Kouta, their little brother. No one knew the mother. And finally, there was the current Queen, Rinako. She had come shortly after Kouta’s arrival and had lasted for quite some time. She had yet to give birth to a child, and Jin was getting antsy. Many people suspect that she had slipped him infertility medicine into his food. But then again, the royal taste testers were rather quite fertile. Just last month, one man became the father of twins.

Despite the rather chaotic mess of their family, they were divided quite clearly into two factions. Gaara, Naruto, Temari, and Kankurou were taking control of the court. Without their mothers to fend for them, Kimiko, Hoshi, and Kouta all depended on the benevolence of their rather intimidating and cruel father. Kazuo, Tiki, and Inaya are fending for themselves rather well, but were obviously not ready to make any impression or seize control. “What a mess this is,” Gaara commented.

“You mean our family? Or just our lives in general?” Temari asked contentedly from her place beside him.

Gaara didn’t bother to reply for Naruto had plopped himself down on his other side and answered. “Both, of course.” Naruto was blonde, blue-eyed, and forever enthusiastic about everything that moved. Gaara was surprised he hadn’t tried killing him yet. That one time where he had actually did land him in the hospital didn’t count. It had been an accident.

“I don’t suppose I’m the one getting married, huh?” Kankurou asked as he also rejoined their group. He had been exchanging pleasantries (more like guarded jibes) with their younger half-siblings but had lost interest when he realized his siblings were gathered together.

“I feel bad for the girl then,” Temari snorted, rolling her eyes. “Although I wish I could see her face when she sees you, makeup face.” The jibe had long since become a pet name. Just like how Kankurou kindly called her ‘wind-for-brains’ in retaliation. Temari had been designated the role of ‘monarch’ and was told to mind the country with Rinako while they made the trip to visit her future sister-in-law.

“Hey, hey, no fighting!” Naruto said, eying Gaara warily. Gaara may appreciate his siblings’ presence he did not appreciate the noise that usually accompanied the energetic Naruto, the sarcastic and provocative Temari, and the hothead that was Kankurou. They quieted down considerably.

“Well, it beats getting married to Naruto.” Kankurou said affably, dodging the swipe Naruto aimed at him. “At least I’m good looking.” He joked. Before Naruto could really inflict some damage onto the older man, a servant appeared.

“Your Royal Highnesses, His Majesty and Her Majesty requests your presence in the Great Hall.” The cheerful faces on the four siblings’ faces dropped, and behind them, the sullen silence of their younger siblings echoed their thoughts. In unison, all ten siblings thought: Crap.