Very tragic and touching story, well done.

Wonderful piece of writing.

So sad! But it was good too, poor Temari. I would have loved to read how Shikamaru and Temari's brothers reacted to how she was abused when she was younger.

Love it! 3 ShikTema 3

This story was just splendidly cute and amazing in ways that shows the true value of a kunoichi. It also depicts the true value of a female warrior.

But what basically captured my attention was these sentences. "For kunoichi are not women, they never have been. They are guardians, martyrs, but overall, they are pawns. Pawns with breasts and pawns with ferocity and beauty." My body absolutely felt shivers ran up my spine when I read this for they were true in the aspects of battle.

Actually, in some ways, your story was not, in a sense, M-rated. It could actually pass for T-rated. Though sex and rape are mentioned but they were not overly used in the story plot. But that's just my opinion.

Out of all the pairings formed in the Naruto fandom, ShikaTema is the only pairing I adore the most. And would probably give a fit if these two are paired with someone else.

I love the story. I love how you portrayed the weaknesses of the strong-willed Temari. And I love how Shikamaru knows these weaknesses well. I just love both of them.

Cheers to you. I hope to read more of this lovely couple from you. :)

Regards,

-MVDR-

Hey Thinkette,

Kudos to you for exploring a darker, less-explored perspective in the Naruto-verse. As kunoichi, matters like these would realistically be a matter of concern, given the context, though not explicitly mentioned.

It's fitting that you chose to examine Suna in this aspect, particularly since it's rather apparent that they're much more seasoned, so to speak, than their Konoha counterparts; somehow, it's difficult imagining this happening in Konoha, with teachers like Iruka and their kunoichis' milder and more fragile dispositions. Temari's certainly more vicious and emotionless than most others, which allowed her to be kept in character here, and Shikamaru's intelligence, knowledge, maturity and patience would help him understand and accept Temari - all of her, just as she is; never rushing things and gradually helping her learn love.

Also interesting that you chose to present it matter-of-factly, since it would match Temari's perspective, thinking logically in figures, and somewhat emotionally-detached.

~Shadow

I am in awe. This storyis truly something...

Very sweet and beautiful. XD

Excellent. I can't think of any more to say.