Legacies

Sakura sat by her window, the afternoon sunlight spilling across her desk as she dipped her brush into the ink. She glanced out at the gardens, watching the gentle breeze rustle the leaves, but her mind was elsewhere—on her dear friend Hinata and the wedding fast approaching.

With a deep breath, she began to write, her brush flowing over the delicate paper with practiced ease:

"Dear Hinata,"

"I can't believe it's only a week until your wedding day! I've been thinking about you and Naruto constantly, and I just know you'll be the most beautiful bride. I can't wait to see you in your dress—it feels like only yesterday we were dreaming of our futures together, and now yours is so close. I'm so happy for you both, and I hope love and peace follow you wherever you go."

Sakura paused, her heart swelling with pride for Hinata and Naruto. They had come so far despite the obstacles between their clans. She resumed writing:

"It's hard to believe how much has changed. Years ago, who could have imagined the Hyūga and the Uzumaki would unite? I remember how tense things were back then, how the Hyūga hated Naruto's family, the Uzumaki, and wouldn't even consider peace. But Naruto... he reached out to your clan. His heart has always been so full of hope, and it's amazing to think that reaching out led him to you. You two are proof that old grudges can be overcome, and I hope your marriage will bring even more unity between the clans."

As she wrote, a shadow of worry crossed Sakura's mind. She couldn't help but feel protective of Hinata, especially knowing that Kushina Uzumaki—Naruto's mother—had never fully embraced the idea of her son marrying a lady, let alone a Hyūga. Kushina's fierce personality and protectiveness over Naruto could easily create friction, and Sakura feared for how that tension might affect her friend.

Sakura bit her lip, considering how to voice her concerns without making Hinata worry. After a moment, she continued:

"Hinata, I need to say this because I care about you. I know Naruto's mother, Kushina, has been a source of stress for you. I know she can be... intense. Please remember, no matter what happens, you are strong, and Naruto loves you deeply. If you ever feel unsure or if anything feels off after the wedding, reach out to me."

She hesitated, thinking of a way to give Hinata a way to contact her in secret, should she ever need it. A smile tugged at Sakura's lips as she remembered their childhood—how they would spend hours by the river, naming the ducks that swam there. Those names felt like the perfect code.

"And Hinata, if you ever need to write to me, but feel like someone else might read the letters... remember those ducks we used to name by the river? Aiko, Mio, and Yuki? If anything happens, and you need my help, just ask about them—but refer to them as people or maids. That way, no one will know what we're really talking about. I want you to feel safe, no matter what."

Sakura set down her brush, reading over the letter one more time. It was filled with love and hope, but also the quiet reassurance that Hinata would always have someone looking out for her. She carefully folded the letter, tucking it into an envelope, and sealed it with the Senju crest.

Leaning back in her chair, Sakura let out a soft sigh. She knew Hinata was strong, but being married into a powerful family like the Uzumaki came with its own set of dangers. Sakura could only hope that her friend would never need to ask about "Aiko," "Mio," or "Yuki"—but she would be ready if she did.

As Sakura sealed the letter, a light knock on her door startled her. She turned to see her older brother, Kakashi, leaning against the doorframe with his characteristic lazy smile.

"Writing to the bride-to-be?" he asked, his visible eye crinkling with amusement.

Sakura nodded, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. "Just some words of encouragement for Hinata."

Kakashi chuckled, stepping into the room. "You worry too much, little sister. Hinata will be fine. If anything, you should be more concerned about your own lack of knowledge regarding your duties after marriage."

Sakura's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean, Kakashi? What duties?"

A mischievous glint appeared in Kakashi's eye. "Well, well. It seems it's time I give you an educational lesson on life after marriage."

Sakura couldn't help but laugh. "You? Give me a lesson on marriage? But you're not even married! That doesn't make any sense."

Kakashi's laughter joined hers, deep and warm. "Ah, Sakura. I'm a man. I know more about these things, as less is hidden from me."

The playful banter between siblings filled the room, momentarily chasing away Sakura's concerns for her friend. Yet, as their laughter faded, she couldn't help but wonder what exactly Kakashi meant by 'duties after marriage' and why he thought he knew more about it than her. She was also confused on why they needed to visit the his personal library for an educational lesson.

However, it was not long before Sakura stormed out of the garden, her face flushed a deep shade of crimson. "I never want to see Sasuke again!" she fumed, crossing her arms tightly over her chest. And it wasn't for the reasons anyone might assume. No, this was a whole new level of embarrassment that had nothing to do with Sasuke himself.

Minutes earlier, her older brother Kakashi had made her read his old, romantic stories, which were already mortifying enough on their own. But the real humiliation came when she didn't understand certain parts of the stories.

That's when Kakashi, being the helpful older brother that he was, suggested she "ask." And that led to this—the garden, a table full of vegetables, and a conversation she would never forget.

Sakura's mind flashed back to scene that was haunting her.

"Alright, little sis," Kakashi began, laying out an assortment of items on the garden table in front of him: an acorn, a pepper, a carrot, a cucumber, an eggplant, and a coin. He placed them all in a neat row, while Sakura stared at him, already regretting asking for clarification.

Kakashi picked up the coin first, twirling it between his fingers. "You," he said, placing it back down in front of her, "are the coin. Small, innocent, and round—just like your face when you don't know what I'm talking about." He grinned behind his mask, but Sakura was less than amused.

Sakura frowned, confusion already setting in. "What does that even mean?"

Kakashi sighed dramatically and picked up the eggplant, giving it a shake. "Let's start here. This... this is what some guys want to believe they are," he said, shaking his head and muttering, "Definitely not like mine."

Sakura blinked. "What?"

"Never mind," Kakashi said quickly, putting the eggplant aside. He then grabbed the carrot and cucumber, holding them both up with a more serious expression. "Okay, now this is where things get... realistic."

Sakura's eyes narrowed. "What are you trying to teach me, Kakashi? Because if this is about vegetables, I already know how to cook."

Kakashi chuckled softly. "Oh, I'm sure you do. But this," he gestured to the carrot and cucumber, "is about anatomy. Their anatomy, to be precise." He emphasized with a small, knowing nod, as if that would clear everything up.

Sakura's face twisted in confusion. "Anatomy? Like... arms and legs?"

Kakashi gave her a pitiful look before sighing again. "No, no, Sakura. I mean...this," he said, shaking the carrot slightly for emphasis. "Let's just say, based on what I've seen and heard—regarding Obito during our time together for Orochimaru's experiments, I believe—the average Uchiha... well, they're probably around this size." He waved the carrot for clarity.

Sakura's jaw dropped, her mind struggling to process what her brother was talking about. "Wait, what? I—are we still talking about Sasuke?!"

Kakashi ignored her question and placed the cucumber next to the carrot. "The cucumber might represent... someone above average. But it's not the point. Let's focus on the carrot. Now, Sakura," he said, smiling in a way that made her feel very, very nervous, "make a circle with your thumb and pointer finger."

Hesitantly, Sakura complied, creating a small loop with her fingers. "Like this?"

Kakashi nodded approvingly. "Good. Now, try to imagine fitting this," he pointed to the cucumber, "through that."

Sakura blinked, utterly lost. "Why would I do that?"

Kakashi sighed for what felt like the hundredth time that day. "Because, Sakura. It's important that you understand—" he started, but then noticed the look of sheer bewilderment on her face. He dropped the cucumber and picked up the carrot again. "Okay, let's start smaller. Try to fit the carrot."

Sakura's face went from pink to bright red as she realized what her brother was trying to teach her. "K-Kakashi, I—this is..."

He chuckled. "This, Sakura, is life. You're about to marry into the Uchiha, and trust me, it's better to know what you're getting into than be surprised. You need to know what sex is. Damn Sakura, you kill for heaven's sake, this is no big deal."

Sakura covered her face with her hands. "I cannot believe I'm having this conversation with you! This is not what I thought you meant when you said I should 'ask' for explanations."

Kakashi shrugged, unapologetic. "Hey, I'm just making sure you're well-informed. You don't want to go into this without understanding how... things work, right?"

Sakura groaned, her entire body flushing with embarrassment. "I'm never asking you for help again. This is mortifying!"

Kakashi couldn't help but laugh, his eyes crinkling in amusement. "Come on, Sakura. It's important! You don't want to end up like Obito—he never understood any of this. When we became close, I heard about his first night and I will say-"

Sakura threw her hands up in frustration. "What does Obito have to do with anything?!"

Kakashi grinned, picking up the eggplant once more and shaking it playfully. "Well, nothing... except maybe some misguided comparisons."

Sakura, overwhelmed and thoroughly embarrassed, stood up abruptly. "Okay, this conversation is officially over. I'm done. This—this is too much!"

As she stomped off, Kakashi called after her, "Just remember, Sakura, you're the coin! Small but mighty!"

Sakura quickened her pace, her face burning. "I am never talking to him again!" she muttered to herself as she stormed back into the castle, the garden—and Kakashi's ridiculous vegetables—now a distant memory.

Back in the present, Sakura shook her head, still unable to believe the absurd conversation she'd had with her brother. The thought of facing Sasuke after this newfound (and unwanted) knowledge made her want to hide away forever.

"I really need to learn when to stop asking Kakashi for advice," she grumbled, still mortified.

Little to the siblings knowledge their mother was watching the display and laughing about it. Tsunade quickly stepped away from the window as she saw her daughter enter the castle.

Sakura hurried to her mother's study, her mind still reeling from her earlier encounter with Kakashi. She pushed the door open, finding Tsunade hunched over a stack of scrolls, her brows furrowed in concentration. The moment she noticed Sakura, however, a knowing smile crept across her face.

"Ah, my little flower! You look flustered. What's the matter?" Tsunade asked, her voice laced with a teasing lilt.

Sakura groaned, her hands flying to her hair as she flopped down on a nearby chair. "Kakashi just tried to explain... everything to me! It was embarrassing! I can't face Sasuke again after this!"

Tsunade chuckled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "I can only imagine the wonderful stories he told you. He always did have a unique way of explaining things. But if you're feeling unprepared, perhaps you need a bit more information?"

"Please, no! I don't want to hear anything else!" Sakura begged, waving her hands in front of her. "I just want to figure things out on my own, especially when it comes to Sasuke!"

Tsunade leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms. "I understand, but I think you need more than what your brother has given you. This isn't something you can just wing! You're about to be married! There's a lot to consider."

Sakura's heart sank. "What are you talking about?"

"Here's my plan," Tsunade said, her tone shifting to one of determination. "Naruto and Hinata's wedding is coming up, right? You can watch the whole ceremony. And after that, you'll get to see what happens on their wedding night."

Sakura's eyes widened in horror. "No! You can't be serious! I don't want to see that! Can't I just, I don't know, learn from a book or something?"

Tsunade shook her head firmly. "It's not enough to read about it, Sakura! You need real-life examples! Observing the ceremony will help you understand the significance of the night. You can learn what to expect and how to handle it when your time comes."

Sakura felt her stomach twist in knots. "I really don't want to watch my friends on their wedding night! That's beyond awkward!"

"Too bad!" Tsunade replied, her voice stern. "You need to be prepared. It's important for you to know what you're getting into with Sasuke. You can't go into this blind!"

"Can't I just figure it out on my own wedding night?!" Sakura pleaded, desperation creeping into her voice.

Tsunade chuckled softly, the corner of her mouth quirking up. "You think that's going to be any better? Just trust me, this is for your own good. You'll thank me later!"

Sakura sighed, exasperated. "I can't believe this is happening. You're actually going to make me watch them?"

"Absolutely," Tsunade said, nodding with determination.

Sakura slumped back in her chair, her face pale as she imagined the potential horrors of the upcoming wedding. "This is going to be the worst."

Tsunade smirked, her eyes glinting with mischief. "Welcome to the world of adulthood, Sakura! It's time to face reality."

Sakura groaned, knowing she was trapped in her mother's plan. As she left the room, she muttered to herself, "I'll never be ready for this."

A few days later, Sakura stood outside her parents' room, her heart racing with determination. After taking a deep breath, she knocked softly on the door. Moments later, it creaked open to reveal her father, Dan, looking slightly surprised.

"Darling, what brings you here?" he asked, his expression warm but curious.

"Dad, can we talk?" she replied, stepping inside and closing the door behind her. She hesitated, then continued, "It's about Hinata's wedding and what Mom is planning."

Dan raised an eyebrow, sensing her unease. "Is it about the preparations? Your mother can be a bit overzealous sometimes."

Sakura nodded, crossing her arms tightly over her chest. "It's about her idea of having me watch Naruto and Hinata's first time... together and I do not meant their first dance. I can't believe she thinks that's acceptable."

Dan's expression shifted from curiosity to concern. "She wants you to watch that? Sakura, you shouldn't have to endure something like that! It's completely inappropriate."

"I know! But she insists it's part of my preparation," Sakura explained, frustration creeping into her voice. "I want to learn on my own terms, not by witnessing my friends in such an intimate moment."

Dan rubbed the back of his neck, deep in thought. "I understand why that would upset you. You're my little girl, and I don't want you to feel pressured."

Sakura's heart lifted slightly at his support. "Exactly! I really don't want to see Naruto and Hinata like that. Can you tell Mom that I'd prefer to learn through reading or something? I don't want to be traumatized by a live demonstration!"

Dan chuckled softly, but his expression quickly grew serious. "I can't imagine what your mother is thinking. I'll talk to Tsunade and make sure she understands that you should prepare in a way that feels comfortable for you. Imagine how Hinata would feel... She deserve to enjoy her wedding night without feeling pressured or embarrassed with her friend watching."

"Really? You'll talk with mother?" Sakura's eyes brightened with hope.

"Absolutely! We'll find some good books for you instead," Dan said, nodding firmly. "Tsunade can help with that. I'll make sure she backs off on this ridiculous idea."

Sakura felt a wave of relief wash over her. "Thank you, Dad! I really appreciate it. I just want to feel ready when the time comes."

A day later, Sakura found herself in the training grounds, her emotions still in turmoil over the upcoming wedding. The books her mother had given her lay forgotten at home; she had chosen instead to hone her fighting skills, hoping physical exertion would quiet her troubled mind.

As she moved through her forms, each precise strike and block a testament to her growth as a warrior, her thoughts inevitably drifted to Hinata. The Hyuga heiress, raised in the strict traditions of her clan, would likely enter her wedding night woefully unprepared. The very idea sent a chill down Sakura's spine, her protective instincts flaring.

Sakura's own impending union with Sasuke loomed large in her mind, a mix of excitement and trepidation. She longed to feel the surreal joy of a bride-to-be, yet doubt weighed heavily on her heart. As she executed a particularly complex technique, her concentration wavered, thoughts of Sasuke and their future together intruding once more.

"Sakura," a familiar voice called out, breaking her reverie. Kakashi approached, his usual nonchalance tinged with an air of seriousness. He leaned against a nearby tree, arms crossed, observing her for a moment before speaking again.

"It's perfectly okay not to have all the answers," he continued, his visible eye crinkling in a reassuring smile. "Those books mother gave you... I'm sure they were informative?"

Sakura nodded hesitantly, her cheeks flushing. She had skimmed the pages, but the clinical descriptions felt divorced from the emotional reality she now faced. The subject made her uncomfortable, especially discussing it with her older brother.

Kakashi, sensing her discomfort, pressed on gently. "You know, most of us were already exploring intimacy and relations at a young age. I'm sure Naruto and Sasuke have had their own experiences. As men, it's our responsibility to ensure our partners feel safe and cherished. Hinata will be fine as long as Naruto listened to his grandfather's writings."

His words, meant to reassure, instead sent Sakura's mind reeling. Although her mind was not focus on the Uzumaki couple. On the contrary, it was more worried of the implication that Sasuke might have been intimate with others before her hit like a physical blow. A whirlpool of emotions—jealousy, insecurity, and a profound sense of loss—threatened to overwhelm her.

She had always imagined her first time would be special, a moment shared between two souls discovering love together. The thought that Sasuke might not share that same innocence filled her with a piercing anxiety.

What if he isn't as pure as I am? The question echoed in her mind, each repetition chipping away at the idealized future she had constructed. The thought of Sasuke with someone else was a betrayal she couldn't fathom.

This new perspective forced Sakura to confront the complexities of her impending marriage. Did she truly want to bind herself to someone whose past experiences might forever remain a mystery to her? It was as if a chasm had opened between them, expanding with each passing moment. She felt like she was losing a part of herself, and she didn't know how to bridge that gap.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the training ground, Sakura realized that her journey to understanding love and intimacy was far from over. The path ahead seemed fraught with uncertainty, but perhaps, she thought with a glimmer of hope, that very uncertainty held the promise of growth and deeper connection.

The day of Prince Naruto and Lady Hinata's wedding dawned bright and clear, the sky a canvas of soft blues and wispy clouds. The royal city was abuzz with excitement, streets adorned with colorful banners and flowers, the air filled with the sweet scent of anticipation.

Princess Sakura arrived at the grand cathedral with her family, her heart a tumultuous mix of emotions. She stepped out of the ornate carriage, her emerald gown shimmering in the sunlight, its intricate embroidery catching the light with every movement. Her pink hair was elegantly styled, adorned with delicate crystal flowers that matched the tiara resting atop her head.

King Dan, a tall man with silver-streaked hair, offered his arm to Queen Tsunade Senju, her blonde hair coiffed perfectly, her regal bearing unmistakable. Sakura's brother, Prince Kakashi, stood beside her, his usual laid-back demeanor replaced by a more formal stance befitting the occasion.

"You look beautiful, little sister," Kakashi murmured, giving her a reassuring smile.

Sakura nodded, trying to muster a smile in return, but her eyes were already scanning the crowd. She had expected to see Sasuke, to share this moment with him, but he was nowhere to be seen.

As they made their way towards the cathedral entrance, Sakura caught sight of the Uchiha royal family. King Fugaku stood tall and proud, his stern features softened slightly by the joyous occasion. Queen Mikoto was radiant, her kind eyes sparkling as she greeted guests. Prince Itachi, ever the diplomat, was engaged in conversation with some foreign dignitaries.

But where was Sasuke?

A flash of movement caught Sakura's eye, and her heart skipped a beat. There, at the edge of the crowd, stood Prince Sasuke. But he wasn't alone. A woman with vibrant red hair stood close to him, her hand resting on his arm as she leaned in to whisper something in his ear. Sasuke's expression was unreadable, but he made no move to distance himself from the woman.

Sakura felt as if the ground had fallen away beneath her feet. The woman was beautiful, her Uzumaki heritage evident in her fiery hair and vivacious demeanor. She seemed so at ease with Sasuke, so familiar. The doubts that had plagued Sakura for days came rushing back with renewed force.

"Sakura?" Kakashi's voice broke through her thoughts. "We should take our seats."

She nodded numbly, allowing her brother to guide her into the cathedral. The interior was breathtaking, with soaring arches and stained glass windows that cast rainbow patterns across the marble floor. Flowers in shades of lavender and white adorned every surface, their delicate fragrance filling the air.

As Sakura took her seat in the front pew reserved for royalty, she couldn't shake the image of Sasuke with the red-haired woman. Had he lied to her? Was this mysterious woman from his past, or perhaps his present?

The soft murmur of conversation died down as the orchestra began to play. Sakura felt rather than saw Sasuke slip into the seat beside her, his presence both comforting and unsettling.

"Sakura," he whispered, leaning towards her slightly. "Is everything alright?"

She turned to him, her green eyes meeting his dark ones. For a moment, she wanted to confront him, to demand answers about the woman she had seen. But this wasn't the time or place. Instead, she simply nodded curtly and turned her attention back to the front of the cathedral.

The wedding ceremony was a vision of elegance and tradition. Prince Naruto stood at the altar, resplendent in his formal attire, his usually unruly blonde hair tamed for the occasion. When Lady Hinata appeared at the end of the aisle, a collective gasp of admiration swept through the congregation.

Hinata was a vision in white, her gown a masterpiece of silk and lace. Her long dark hair was adorned with small white flowers, and a gossamer veil trailed behind her. As she walked towards Naruto, her pale eyes shimmering with unshed tears of joy, Sakura felt a pang in her heart. This was the kind of love she had always dreamed of, pure and untainted by doubt.

The ceremony proceeded with all the pomp and circumstance befitting a royal wedding. Vows were exchanged, rings were placed on fingers, and finally, Naruto and Hinata shared their first kiss as husband and wife. The cathedral erupted in applause, joy radiating from every corner.

Throughout it all, Sakura remained silent, her expression carefully neutral. She was acutely aware of Sasuke beside her, of the warmth of his arm barely brushing against hers. But the closeness felt like a mockery now, tainted by the image of him with the Uzumaki woman.

As the newlyweds made their way back down the aisle, showered with flower petals and good wishes, Sakura rose mechanically. She followed the crowd out of the cathedral, the bright sunlight outside a stark contrast to the turmoil within her.

The reception was held in the palace gardens, a sprawling expanse of manicured lawns and vibrant flowerbeds. Tables draped in white linen were scattered throughout, laden with delicacies from every corner of the kingdom. A grand pavilion had been erected for dancing, its billowing white canopy offering shade from the afternoon sun.

Sakura found herself at a table with her family and the Uchihas, the conversation flowing around her like water around a stone. She picked at her food, her appetite gone, her mind still replaying the scene she had witnessed earlier.

"Sakura," Sasuke's low voice cut through her thoughts. "May I have a word with you? In private?"

She looked up, meeting his concerned gaze. Part of her wanted to refuse, to cling to the cold distance she had maintained throughout the ceremony. But another part, the part that still loved him despite her doubts, longed for answers.

"Very well," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

They excused themselves from the table, Sakura acutely aware of the curious glances that followed them. Sasuke led her to a secluded corner of the garden, where a small fountain bubbled peacefully, partially hidden by a weeping willow.

"What's wrong?" Sasuke asked as soon as they were alone. "You've been distant all day. Did something happen?"

Sakura laughed bitterly, the sound harsh even to her own ears. "Did something happen? You tell me, Sasuke. Who was that woman I saw you with before the ceremony?"

Sasuke's brow furrowed in confusion. "Woman? What woman?"

"Don't play dumb," Sakura snapped, her composure finally cracking. "The red-haired woman. The one who seemed so... familiar with you. The one who was touching your arm and whispering in your ear."

Understanding dawned in Sasuke's eyes, followed quickly by something that looked like relief. "Sakura, that was Karin. She's Naruto's cousin."

"His cousin?" Sakura repeated, her voice small.

Sasuke nodded. "Yes, from the Uzumaki side of his family. She arrived late and was asking me where she could find Naruto before the ceremony started. That's all."

Sakura felt her cheeks burn with embarrassment. "Oh," she said, looking down at her hands. "I... I thought..."

"You thought there was something between us," Sasuke finished for her, his voice gentle. He reached out, tilting her chin up so she had to meet his gaze.

Sakura took a deep breath, steeling herself. "Sasuke, I... I was told that men often have many experiences with women other than their wives while young. Yet princesses are meant to be pure." She paused, her voice barely above a whisper. "So I must ask... are you pure? Or tainted?"

Sasuke's eyes widened slightly, understanding dawning in their dark depths. He was quiet for a moment, considering his words carefully. "Sakura," he began, his voice low and earnest, "the only thing I know about women besides your lips are what clan members talk about. I have no real experience, as I was raised to wait for marriage." A small, almost rueful smile tugged at his lips. "No offense to the Senju clan, but we Uchiha wait until marriage to fully be with a woman."

Sakura searched his face, wanting desperately to believe him but still harboring a shadow of doubt. "If you're lying..." she began, her voice trailing off.

Without hesitation, Sasuke took her hand and placed it against his neck, right over his pulse point. "Feel for lies," he said, his gaze never leaving hers. "I tell you the truth because I love you, Sakura."

She felt the steady, strong beat of his pulse beneath her fingers, unwavering as he spoke. Relief washed over her, and she felt the last of her doubts melt away. Still, she couldn't bring herself to return those three words just yet. Instead, she said, "That's good. Because if you weren't pure, I would have called our wedding off."

A hint of amusement flickered in Sasuke's eyes. "Well," he said, a touch of humor in his voice, "that would mean I'd be alone forever. You're the only one for me, Sakura."

The gravity of the moment dissolved into something lighter, more playful. Sakura felt a smile tugging at her lips, the first genuine one of the day. Sasuke's hand was warm as it enveloped hers, gently pulling it away from his neck but not letting go.

"Shall we dance?" he asked, nodding towards the pavilion where other couples were swaying to the music.

Sakura nodded, feeling as if a weight had been lifted from her shoulders. "Yes," she said softly. "We shall."

As Sasuke led her onto the dance floor, his arm secure around her waist, Sakura felt a renewed sense of hope. There were still things to discuss, a future to plan, but for now, she was content to be in this moment with him, their hearts beating in sync as they moved to the music.

The lanterns cast a warm glow over the garden, and as they danced, Sakura caught glimpses of other couples—Naruto and Hinata lost in each other's eyes, her parents sharing a tender moment. Love, in all its forms, surrounded them.

And there, in Sasuke's arms, Sakura realized that their love story was just beginning. It might not always be easy, but it would be theirs—pure, true, and worth every moment of doubt and discovery.

The music swelled, and as they moved together in perfect harmony, Sakura realized that this—this trust, this understanding, this willingness to work through their doubts together—was what true love was all about. It would not always be easy, and it not always perfect. But with Sasuke by her side, she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As the afternoon faded into evening, lanterns were lit throughout the garden, casting a warm, ethereal glow over the festivities. Sakura and Sasuke danced, laughed, and talked, making up for the distance that had separated them earlier. And when Sasuke leaned in to kiss her, soft and sweet under the twinkling lights, Sakura knew that her heart was safe in his hands.

The celebration continued long into the night, a joyous beginning to Naruto and Hinata's new life together. And for Sakura and Sasuke, it marked a new chapter in their own relationship—one built on honesty, trust, and the enduring power of love.

The Senju castle stood tall and proud against the darkening sky, its stone walls bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. The royal family had just returned from Naruto and Hinata's wedding, the day's events still fresh in their minds.

Princess Sakura, however, found herself restless. The emotional rollercoaster of the day had left her with a surplus of energy she couldn't shake. As soon as they arrived, she sought out her brother, Prince Kakashi.

"Kakashi," she called, catching him in one of the long corridors. "Would you mind training with me? I could use the distraction."

Kakashi raised an eyebrow, a knowing look in his eye. "Of course, little sister. Meet me in the private training grounds in ten minutes."

The private training area was a secluded courtyard, surrounded by high walls to ensure privacy. Weapons of various types lined the walls, and the ground was covered in soft, packed earth to cushion falls. By the time Sakura arrived, Kakashi was already there, casually leaning against a wooden post.

"Ready?" he asked, straightening up.

Sakura nodded, falling into a fighting stance. Without further preamble, they began to spar. The clash of metal against metal rang out as they exchanged blows, their movements a blur of practiced precision.

As they fought, Sakura felt her frustrations from the day begin to surface. With each strike, each block, she found herself growing more agitated. Finally, after a particularly aggressive lunge, she spoke.

"This is all your fault, you know," she said, her voice tight with exertion and emotion.

Kakashi dodged her attack, his brow furrowing. "What's my fault?"

"My behavior at the wedding," Sakura grunted, launching another series of strikes. "How I acted around Sasuke. I embarrassed myself, and it's because of what you told me!"

Kakashi parried her blows, his movements defensive as he tried to understand. "Sakura, I'm not sure what you mean. How is your behavior my responsibility?"

Sakura's attacks intensified, her emotions fueling her movements. "You once told me that many men have numerous partners in their lifetime. But the Uchiha are different, aren't they? Sasuke is different." She paused, her next words coming out in a rush. "I accused him of... of being with someone else. And he wasn't. He's never been with anyone."

Realization dawned on Kakashi's face. He lowered his weapon, signaling a pause in their sparring. "Sakura," he said gently, "I was speaking about most men, not specifically the Uchiha. Remember, they were our enemies for a long time. It's difficult to know the values and morals of a group you're not allied with."

Sakura's shoulders slumped, her earlier aggression deflating. "But you... you've been with someone, haven't you? Before marriage?"

Kakashi sighed, running a hand through his silver hair. "I have," he admitted. "But that doesn't mean everyone has. The world isn't black and white, Sakura. People and cultures are diverse, with different beliefs and practices."

"I just feel so foolish," Sakura said, sinking down onto a nearby bench. "I doubted Sasuke because of what I thought I knew about men. About royalty."

Kakashi sat beside her, his presence comforting. "It's natural to have doubts, Sakura. What matters is how you address them. Did you talk to Sasuke about this?"

Sakura nodded, a small smile tugging at her lips despite her lingering embarrassment. "We did. He was... understanding. Patient."

"Then that's what's important," Kakashi said, nudging her shoulder gently. "Relationships are built on communication and trust. You're learning, both of you."

They sat in companionable silence for a moment, the tension of their earlier sparring session dissipating. Sakura felt a wave of gratitude for her brother's wisdom and support.

"Now," Kakashi said, standing up and offering her a hand. "Shall we continue? I think you still have some frustration to work out."

Sakura grinned, taking his hand and pulling herself up. "You're on, brother."

They resumed their sparring, but this time the atmosphere was lighter, more playful. Sakura's movements were fluid and focused, no longer fueled by misplaced anger. As they trained, she felt her earlier embarrassment and doubt melting away, replaced by a renewed sense of confidence and understanding.

Their session continued well into the night, the courtyard lit by flickering torches. They were so engrossed in their training that they didn't notice the approaching footsteps until a familiar voice cut through the night air.

"Alright, you two," Queen Tsunade called from the courtyard entrance, her tone a mix of amusement and exasperation. "It's late. Time for bed."

Sakura and Kakashi paused, both breathing heavily from exertion. They shared a look, then burst into laughter.

"Yes, Mother," they chorused, bowing dramatically to Tsunade.

The queen rolled her eyes, but there was a fond smile on her face. "Go on, off with you both. There's always more training to be done tomorrow."

As they made their way back into the castle, Sakura felt a sense of peace settle over her. The day had been tumultuous, full of highs and lows, but here, surrounded by her family, she felt grounded once more. Whatever challenges lay ahead in her relationship with Sasuke, she knew she had the strength and support to face them.

With a final goodnight to Kakashi and Tsunade, Sakura retired to her chambers. As she drifted off to sleep, her last thoughts were of Sasuke, and the future they would build together—a future based on trust, understanding, and love.