Early Monday morning around 5 o'clock all the way in the Hidden Cloud Village Darui was woken by a pecking noise on is window, he wasn't to upset at the early morning wake up call but still who on earth would be stupid enough to wake him up by pecking on his window.
When he sat up he realized that the culprit was a phoenix, not just any phoenix, her phoenix, Sakura Haruno the Land of Fire's Feudal Princess "Hey Hono what do you have for me a letter" Darui unlatched his window and hefted it open for the fiery bird.
Seconds later a letter was dropped into his hands, the phoenix trilled before unfolding his wings and flying out the window, Darui sighed, shut his window, latched it, then unrolled the letter from the girl he'd found himself betrothed to three years ago.
At only the age of twelve, his flicked across what was written, his lips quirking up halfway through, then he was full on grinning by the end of the letter, until it was tied and put away with the others that had been written to him.
"Up early aren't you Darui, has something happened why are you carrying a pack on your back" Cee greeted when his partner/housemate exited his room fully dressed for the morning with a rucksack which was odd, and it was only 5:45.
The fifteen year old rubbed the back of his head "Hono brought me another letter from her, you know Sakura, apparently she decided to become a shinobi, not just any shinobi a medical shinobi, plus she wants me to come visit her in Leaf, so gonna go ask the Boss" Darui explained.
Cee's brows rose up and he bit back his smile, "Good luck then Darui, oh and if you could pick up some ointment from Leaf that I can't get here that would be great, this is the brand name" the blonde held out an empty petri dish.
Darui sighed, took the petri dish, waved before he was gone in a plume of smoke, Cee chuckled and resumed what he'd previously been doing, which was doing some maintenance work on his weapons for the next mission.
Meanwhile Darui had arrived at the Raikage Tower "Boss" the younger white haired male greeted when he was stood before his Kage, Ay, the Fourth Raikage, who'd taken over for when his Father had died two years ago.
"Come to request a mission did you, are you that bored Darui" Ay snorted harshly but his shinobi didn't so much as flinch, but the fifteen year old did sigh and look exhausted, he knew that expression and he also knew what was coming.
For in the next moment "She requested that I come visit, she moved to Leaf to train in the shinobi arts, so yeah Boss, it's not so drab though at least she's gonna be a beauty when she grows up" Darui grimaced.
Ay pinched the bridge of his nose still wondering what had possessed him to agree to that madness over three years ago "Very well you have a month, two weeks there, which means a week there and a week back starting today is that understood" the Raikage snapped.
His shinobi nodded "Understood Boss" the younger bowed deeply, then hurried out the door, halfway out of the village, he stopped in a weapons shop and bought a book unique to Lightning Country, knowing the girl adored such things as a souvenir/apology gift for not sending a return letter.
By exactly seven o'clock he was out the village and on his way across the land all the way to Fire Country, and to the Village Hidden in the Leaves to visit the girl he'd gotten betrothed to somehow that also happened to be a princess.
It was also around this time that said princess was waking up for her first day at the academy "Are you ready Sakura-hime" Koron was right there to help her into her selected outfit, a pale green kimono top with sleeves that tightened at the wrist to not hinder movement.
A pair of tights in a dark blue and a dark green skirt, to complete the outfit little green sandals "Now you look like a true kunoichi in training Ojo-sama" Kyogo commented when the two females exited the bedroom to eat breakfast.
"Wow Sakura-chan Kyogo-kun is right, you really look the part, though if some of your classmates are clan kids your crest is gonna be noticed right away and get you bullied, as well as that bracelet" Koeda warned gently.
Sakura glanced to her jewelry "I'd think it would be her hair that would get her in trouble more than her accessories Koeda-chan" Mebuki tapped her daughter on the head with a smile "But just to be safe you better leave those things in Koron's care" she warned.
"Okay Mebuki-oba-chan, here you go Koron-chan, please take care of them for me, especially the bracelet cause Darui-kun sent it to me for my birthday" Sakura quickly unclasped both necklace and bracelet from her person and handed them over to her guard.
Mebuki nodded in acceptance "Now are you lot ready for breakfast, yes, yes I know Eda-kun you silly little monkey" Kizashi lifted his son high in the air causing the little boy to squeal even as his tummy rumbled before he was placed in his high chair and given a plate of scrambled eggs.
"Yum, yum" Eda clapped his hands enjoying his breakfast like the others until it was nearly 7:30 which meant it was nearly time to go, back packs were held out, kisses were given and the two kunoichi in training were gently ushered out the door.
Koeda sent a reassuring glance to her cousin "Don't worry Sakura-chan we'll be back at three I promise and I bet you'll make tons of awesome friends" Koeda grinned taking Sakura by the hand and leading her carefully down the streets to the academy.
The younger became visibly nervous when they walked under the academy gates and onto the play yard already full of children, Koeda spotted some of her friends beckoning her over but she resolutely shook her head vowing to not abandon her cousin on the first day.
Which Sakura appreciated a lot "You really think I'll make friends Koeda-chan" the little pinkette was practically huddled into her older cousin's side and she suddenly wished Musubime was there to help buffer her a little more as well.
In response Koeda nodded "Mhm I do cause everyone makes a friend on the first day no matter how shy the other person is" Koeda giggled poking her little cousin on the forehead just as someone barreled into them from behind.
"Oops I..I'm sorry I didn't mean to please I r…really didn't" a pale eyed blue haired girl the same age as Sakura stuttered horribly, in the shyest tone ever and squeezed her eyes shut thinking she was going to be yelled at.
But when nothing came the newcomer blinked open her pale eyes which locked with emerald "Wow your pretty" Sakura said eloquently, the only thing that came to mind before something else occurred to her "W..Would you like to be my friend" she asked shyly a hopeful glint in her eyes.
Surprise flitted across the slightly taller girls features and Koeda stepped back giving her cousin time to make a friend "Bu..But I'm useless and c..can't do anything ri..right" the bluenette blurted out suddenly still stuttering.
The fuscia haired girl blinked in surprise "Nonsense just because you can't do something right away doesn't mean your useless, I'm Sakura Haruno whats your name, cause I really want to be your friend" Sakura became a little more assertive.
Not liking how her potential friend had put herself down so easily and so she was resolved to help the girl better herself and become someone confident in the future, it would be a hard task no doubt, but she was willing to put in the effort.
Koeda hid her smile behind her hand when the obvious Hyuga girl, probably the Clan Head's daughter or something squeaked in surprise at how quickly Sakura had changed from the shy attitude to what everyone called the Princess attitude.
But "O..Okay then my na..name is Hinata Hyuga, Sak..Sakura-chan and I wo..would really like to be your friend" Hinata smiled shyly, still stuttering, over her shock and Koeda knew that the two girls would be the best of friends for all time, nothing would be able to split them up.
Sakura suddenly remembered that her cousin was nearby "It's okay Sakura-chan, though see I told you, anyway it's about time to go in so I'll see you after academy lets out" Koeda hugged her younger cousin again before hurrying towards the older kids gathered in the play yard.
Almost immediately after Koeda's departure a bell sounded and the academy doors opened "All new students follow me to the academy training grounds for a lecture" the Third Hokage appeared decked out in his Kage Robes.
"Come on Hinata-chan lets go" the little pinkette grabbed her first ever friend her age by the wrist and drug her after the other children as they followed the Third Hokage and a brunet all the way to the academy training grounds that they would get to use soon.
Despite being suddenly dragged the Hyuga Heiress was glad that she wasn't being abandoned already by her new friend "Th..Thank y..you Sakura-chan" Hinata stuttered out as they all lined up in rows, but she got to stay standing right next to her friend.
Who flashed her a bright smile before focusing on the Hokage "Congratulations to all of you, the road of a shinobi is tough and filled with difficulties, some give up before the going gets rough and die much to young….." Hiruzen began brown eyes scanning the rows of children.
When he came to her, he paused before finding himself and picking up the lecture "This is where the Will of Fire comes into affect, the will of fire is the ability to see everyone in the village as family, regardless of blood, now I'll hand you over to your sensei" the Hokage finished.
Eyes coming back to the girl in the front row with glaringly obvious pink hair and green eyes, what on earth was the Feudal Lord of Fire Countries daughter doing among the new academy students an answer he was soon going to get to the bottom of.
As he tuned in to the next speech "I am Iruka Umino your sensei for the next seven years, I'll teach you, guide you and help you along the way to finding your own nindo, your goal as a shinobi and make sure you don't die early on" Iruka finished.
Then he was leading them into the classroom after a quick bow at his Kage and allowing them to sit wherever "Now before we begin, I'll start roll call….." the brunet started calling names off a list making sure all the kids were there.
Before he started the first lesson which was history, partway through the lecture Sakura's suddenly hypersensitive ears picked up on conversation going on behind her "Psst Ino isn't she ugly especially with that huge forehead of her's" a purple haired girl whispered to a blonde girl.
Sakura was so tempted to turn around and tell the girl, if she called correctly was named Ami Himekari, off and tell her that her Mom and Dad loved her larger than life forehead, but didn't, because she didn't want to interrupt class on the first day or be branded a troublemaker.
"Ignore he..her Sakura-chan, y..your forehead m..makes you, you" Hinata whispered from beside her and Sakura was glad that she wasn't alone which gave her the strength to focus her attention away from the two whispering girls behind her and focus on the lesson.
Especially when he asked a question "Now who can tell me one of the other Great Shinobi Villages out there" Iruka questioned just waiting for some child to jump up without even raising their hand so he could scold them.
To his surprise though one little girl with a head of bright pink hair and peridot colored eyes raised her hand "Yes Sakura-chan" the brunet recalled the girls name with ease, making a mental note to remind himself since it seemed she would be a rather studious child.
"Cloud Village in Lightning Country isn't that right Iruka-sensei" Sakura announced quite happily and the only reason she knew that was because Darui-kun had told her, since he was from the Hidden Cloud Village.
Iruka blinked in surprise "Nicely said Sakura-chan, she also makes a good point, about three years ago the Raikage came and suggested a treaty between our villages and lands, the exact reason is unknown but it's been unbreakable and trade has never been better" Iruka finished.
Moving on so he didn't get stalled on one thing for the entirety of the lesson, every once in awhile he'd ask a question, but Sakura didn't answer every single time, letting others participate as well, which meant she was a lot different than he initially assumed.
Every so often he would catch her whispering quietly to the girl next to her and taking notes, but overall it was easy to forget they were even talking to each other considering they were extremely focused on the lesson he was giving them.
Which lasted clear up to ten "Do any of you have a question before I move on to the next lesson which is math" the brunet inquired not wanting to seem like an insensitive sensei on the first day since this was his first batch of students ever and he wanted them to be comfortable with him.
To the point where they could come and ask him for help if something was going on "I think we're good sensei, though her big forehead is distracting me from paying attention to your lessons" Ami Himekari snickered but her words and insult didn't deign a response from said girl.
However her sensei was another matter "Then perhaps I should move you to another row" Iruka stated snapping his book shut, he wouldn't allow for bullying to go on in his class, not in front of him, to a girl who hadn't done a single thing wrong since stepping foot in his classroom.
Ami blinked in surprise before leaning back not wanting to be moved from her spot between Ino and her friend "No sensei I'm fine" the purple haired girl sniffed with a sulk and Iruka knew the girl would be a problem no matter what he did.
He could only hope Sakura had a thick skin towards bullies "Good I'll hand out books and a sheet and explain the point of mathematics before having you work out the equations on the sheets" the brunet instructed passing out the books and work sheets to his student.
Before launching into another lecture this time on the importance of math, which could mean getting to live another day if you do your math right "Just don't understand" a little blonde boy whined from the farthest back row in between the Akimichi Heir and Nara Heir.
"Is there something specific you don't understand Naruto-kun" Iruka raised a brow onyx eyes honing in on the boy who'd lost his parents and was all alone because all the adults wouldn't give him a chance.
The blonde sulked "All of it, I don't understand a single thing of what you just said" Naruto pouted crossing his arms and so Iruka took a little bit of extra time to go through a quick but thorough lecture to help him understand before having them work on their equations.
Until it was eleven, Iruka was pleased to start on his theory of chakra lesson and dole out a small assignment of notes before it was finally time for lunch "After lunch we'll head to the training grounds to get some exercise in" the brunet called, dismissing his students to eat.
Eyes wide and full of excitement "Let's go to the roof Hinata-chan, bet that bully won't even think to look up there" Sakura grinned grabbing her bento that had been placed in her pack before leading the way sneakily to the roof.
And found it completely devoid of life "Wh..What d..do you think s…so far Sakura-chan" Hinata asked once she'd swallowed a bite of her sandwich that had been packed for her by a maid that morning, before her lilac eyes glanced in the direction of her friends bento.
Which was jam-packed full of snacks "Mebuki-oba-chan….anyway I like it and I'm thinking about asking my gua…my cousin to take me to the library after academy lets out do you want to come with so we can study together" Sakura asked shifting through the bento.
Hinata became downcast at that and Sakura thought she'd said something wrong "D..Did something happen to y..your mom Sakura-chan" the bluenette looked as if she was about to start crying and Sakura knew the girl was extremely sensitive.
"No, but I'm not exactly from here….." the pinkette trailed off and took a glance around "See I actually came from the Capital of Fire Country, the Feudal Lords my Dad, please don't tell anyone, I really want to be a kunoichi" the fuscia haired girl pleaded.
Lilac eyes widened in shock and surprise "O..Of course S..Sakura-chan your sec..secret is safe with me" the Hyuga Clan Heiress exclaimed softly, promising to never spill the proverbial beans about her first ever friends real status.
Sakura grinned widely "But you never answered my question do you want to come study in the library with me" the rose haired six year old pressed onward again not wanting to be alone in the library cause she was sure it was huge.
Here her friend became downcast again "I..I'd re..really love to Sakura-chan…but I ha..have clan training once I get out, m..my Dad is re..really strict" Hinata sighed looking quite put out with her situation cause it stunk.
It did "Well training is important I guess and my Father can be pretty scary sometimes to, that's why I have to learn how to be both, this Country's Princess and Kunoichi all in one, it's rather difficult" Sakura announced quietly after polishing off the healthiest thing she could find in her bento.
Before they knew it they'd talked and laughed their way through their entire lunch hour and now it was time to head back to class and partake in even more lessons "Good you all came back, now it's time for your physical lessons, to the training grounds" Iruka clapped.
Pleased that none of his students were skipping yet, he was sure it would happen at one point, but for now he was glad it hadn't happened on the first day, especially as he led them outdoors to the training ground again.
Only to make them run five laps "Come on five laps is so boring my Ma makes me run at least ten" a little brunet complained as they started running, a puppy firmly situated on his head and Sakura shot him a look as she passed him by.
"Regardless of that Kiba-kun, five laps are necessary because some of you don't have clan training to back you and need to work on their stamina" their sensei scolded gesturing to Ami, who was falling way behind.
What was surprising though was the girl Ami had tried to bully earlier that morning, Sakura Haruno was definitely not from any clan as far as he could tell, yet she was keeping pace with Hinata Hyuga, it was odd, yet pleasing.
Knowing he had such a dedicated student already or perhaps she'd run around a lot when she was younger and was simply applying that to their lesson "Slow down before you hurt yourself" the Nara Heir snorted when she passed him as well.
"I'm sorry" Sakura apologized carefully but she did slow down a little bit prompting Hinata to do the same, which allowed for them to chat a little between just the two of them as the Nara dragged further and further behind them.
Until they'd completed all five laps, Ami and her friends were the worst off, while some of the clan heirs that weren't use to exercise, such as Choji began complaining "I'm hungry" in other words he liked to eat a lot.
"You just ate not even twenty minutes ago Choji how on earth can you be hungry, honestly your ridiculous" Ino, who'd been also insulting her forehead snapped harshly at the little brown haired boy making him cry at the harshness.
And for her to reel back "Ino-chan apologize, then we'll get started on a proper taijutsu form and have you practice on the poles" Iruka was stood behind the blonde in the next moment staring her down until she apologized to Choji.
Then they were all led into a generic stance for beginners and allowed to carefully test their punches and kicks against the dummies "Looks like we have a show off over there" a random boy from their class called.
Pointing to the lone Uchiha, who was already rather good at taijutsu "It just proves that Sasuke-kun is going to be an exceptional shinobi, a prodigy if you will, when he graduates" their sensei praised.
Earning a beaming smiling from said boy "Thank you Iruka-sensei" Sasuke grinned then resumed his task of punching and kicking the dummy before it was time for the final exercise which was to practice their throwing.
Here their sensei was most hesitant "Are the weapons dull, why because that would be the most logical instead of handing out sharp weapons to a bunch of students" the quietest boy in class commented as they were all handed shuriken to start off with.
"Don't worry Shino-kun their dull for the purpose of this exercise you must learn how to throw, it's all in the control, control before power and strength, now repeat after me" Iruka instructed throwing his shuriken at a target with just a quick flick of his wrist.
Making at least some of his students look at him with awe in their eyes before it was their turn, by the end of the lesson, only a few of the kids had understood, Sakura being the highest, Sasuke next followed by Shino surprisingly.
Before they were all led back in for one last lesson on the theory of genjutsu, and at exactly 3:15, the lesson going a little longer than the others they were finally released "Yay free at least" Kiba was the first to zoom from the classroom.
To his classmates shock at how quickly he'd vanished out the door "Well guess I'..I'll see you to..tomorrow fo..for class Sakura-chan" Hinata sighed wishing she didn't have to part with the only friend she'd made so far.
"Yeah see you then Hinata-chan, oh hey Koeda-chan" Sakura gave her friend a quick hug then darted towards her cousin who was waiting by the gates for her already, probably having been released a few minutes early.
Light green eyes filled with relief "So….how was your first day at the academy, did you make any other friends, who was your sensei, he wasn't mean was he" Koeda chattered as they started down the streets towards her house.
Sakura grinned "It was totally awesome Koeda-chan, no other friends, Iruka Umino was our sensei and no, but he is strict with a kindness to him, though someone did try to bully me, I just ignored her" the younger pinkette exclaimed happily.
Just as they were about to pass by the library Koeda saw the interest "Hang on Sakura-chan, Mother doesn't like it when we dawdle, best thing to do is to go back, tell her you want to study in the library and then come back here" the older warned.
Not wanting to get in trouble by her Aunt, the younger nodded "Okay then let's go Koeda-chan" Sakura grabbed her older cousin by the hand and practically sprinted back home and to her cousin's amusement they returned quicker than usual.
"My you two must have run home" Mebuki was sewing when the two girls barreled through the door out of breath but sporting matching smiles that made them look more like twins than anything, but she knew better, she knew which girl was hers.
Koeda straightened after a couple minutes "Cause of Sakura-chan, she spotted the library and wants to study there for a bit so would it be alright, I have homework anyway and the library will help" Koeda asked lightly.
Mebuki raised a brow at her daughter, then shifted her gaze her niece who nodded eagerly "Don't act as if your going to say no Mebuki, Sakura-chan's always been studious even before this" Kizashi appeared, Koron and Kyogo on his heels.
In response to this his wife snorted but relented to the two younger girls demand of studying in the library for a couple of hours "Of course we'll be going along, you have other studies that demand your attention as well Hime-sama" Koron reminded.
Who nodded in understanding "Good then let me go collect the necessary materials then we'll be out the door and on our way Ojo-sama" Kyogo clapped turning on his heel and vanished for a few minutes, when he returned he was holding a scroll and out the door they went.
All the way back to the library to study as requested, though Sakura took it a step further and got a couple books on theory of chakra control and theory of medical ninjutsu, the mystical palm to begin her studies on how to be a medical shinobi.
The two girls studied quite hard, especially Sakura as she had her lessons as Fire Country's Princess "Is it always going to be like that" Sakura couldn't help but ask when they started heading back home to have dinner.
Koron and Kyogo glanced down at their charge "Not always, once you get use to your math lessons at the academy we'll only to do that once a week, history is the same, but the other lessons, etiquette and your gracefulness we'll work on for most of your life Sakura-hime" Koron explained.
Sakura's eyes widened "Yeah we're essentially your personal guards for the rest of our lives Ojo-sama so please try not to cause to much trouble" Kyogo chuckled knowing that it would be difficult for the girl.
Who lived and breathed mischief and she knew it to as her cheeks burned in embarrassment "Good thing you got me huh Sakura-chan" Koeda nudged her little cousin gently as they climbed the steps to her house and entered the door.
"Mhm and Hinata-chan to" the younger giggled softly clutching her checked out books in her arms as they took off their sandals and put them neatly away before heading to the kitchen to eat dinner with the rest of their family.
"Did you girls have fun at the library" Mebuki questioned as she finished plating up dinner for everyone including her youngest son, who was definitely a bit cranky that evening, no doubt sulking because he didn't have anyone to play with his age.
Both Koeda and Sakura nodded their heads eagerly "Is that homework Sakura-chan" Kizashi honed in on the books his niece held precariously in her arms but Sakura shook her head as she was helped into her chair and the books were taken away to be put in her room.
Koeda smiled lightly "She got a couple books, one about the theory of chakra control and the other on theory of medical ninjutsu" Koeda explained for her cousin, both of her parents were surprised but didn't kick up that much of a fuss.
While the younger girl smiled sheepishly "Uh-huh cause someday I want to be a medic-nin like Cee-san so that if anything happens to Darui-kun I can heal him" Sakura announced her nindo, her goal already at the forefront of her mind.
Mebuki and Kizashi shared a smile and announced that it was time to eat so they all dug in before the children were escorted off for baths and finally bed time, only to repeat everything the next morning since it was now Tuesday.
Though before the two girls headed out the door "Gonna study at the library again, you don't have to come Koeda-chan, I just really like the library" Sakura called to her aunt and uncle so they didn't have to come all the way back to the house.
And her samurai guards would be ready and waiting at the library, then they were on their way to the academy, and just as they passed under the gates "S..Sakura-chan" Hinata was there latching on to her only friend.
"Hello Hinata-chan, what did you think I would suddenly quit after only one day" the younger pinkette giggled as she hugged her friend while Koeda headed towards her own friends with a small wave and a have a good day thrown over her shoulder.
Hinata watched the older girl go "I..Is she your sister S..Sakura-chan" the bluenette asked but Sakura merely shook her head "O..Oh right y..you said you were staying with y..your Aunt, s..so she's your cousin" Hinata tried again.
This time she got a positive answer "Yep, Koeda-chan is my older cousin, then there's Eda-kun, he's only two and I've got my Ni-san all the way in the Capital Musubime-ni, I still haven't gotten a letter from him yet nor Mother, Father and Darui-kun" Sakura sighed.
Looking a little put out "D..Darui wh..who's that" the Hyuga Clan Heiress asked cluelessly as they stood around waiting for the bell that would let them know it was time to head in and start their now daily lessons at the academy.
"Oh he's gonna marry me when I turn of age, so he's technically my betrothed" the fuscia haired girl admitted casually, it had been her who'd asked when she was three, plus Darui was really nice if not a bit odd.
What she didn't expect was for her friend to suddenly start crying "T..That's j..just awful y..your parents fo..forcing you into an a..arranged marriage" Hinata sniffled full on crying right there in the play yard in front of everyone.
Emerald orbs widened in horror "Come on Hinata-chan it's not so bad, he's really nice, plus it's kind of the other way around, but he accepted it to" Sakura assured not having realized that her friend wouldn't take that sort of news well.
Thankfully Hinata seemed to calm down at that and the tears ebbed away "R..Really" the lilac eyed blunette hiccuped earning a nod and finally found it in herself to wipe her eyes dry and hug her friend all the more tighter.
Sakura exhaled a breath of relief "Yeah plus he's super cool, he's a Chunin already for the last three years now, so he's fifteen and he always sends me these awesome presents and comes visit me when I ask" the pinkette chattered.
Just as the bell rang and they all headed in to start another day of lessons at the academy, but when it came to lunch time the fuscia haired princess had noticed something, Sasuke Uchiha was extremely uncomfortable.
With all the attention he was getting from the female variety "Go on up to the roof Hinata-chan, I'll be right there" Sakura was a girl on a mission as she zipped over to the group of girls that hung around Sasuke and annoyed him without considering his feelings.
Waited until Iruka was out of the room and partway down the hall before cupping her hands around her mouth, met Sasuke's eyes evenly and bellowed "Oi Leave Sasuke-san alone can't you see your bothering him so he can't eat" the rose haired girl called startling the bunch of girls.
And once their attention was on her, met Sasuke's eyes again and mouthed one word, to which he promptly grabbed his bento and fled from the classroom as if the hounds of hell were nipping at his heels "Oops sorry" Sakura smiled innocently and vanished from the classroom as well.
Up to the roof where her friend and the Uchiha waited "Thanks but why did you do that if you only wanted to bother me yourself" Sasuke narrowed his eyes as he realized that he was still surrounded by girls.
Hinata giggled "W..We just c..come up here to eat S..Sasuke-san" the little bluenette said then after saying that focused all of her attention on her bento as Sakura plopped down gracefully next to her and opened her own bento.
Seeing as they were in fact leaving him alone Sasuke cautiously sat down "How did training go for you yesterday Hinata-chan was it tough, was your Father to strict again" the rose haired girl asked suddenly.
Making her friend sigh and lower her sandwich "I..I asked i..if there might be a way t.. to lea..leave training early c..cause I really wanted to s..study with you the library bu..but my Father wouldn't h..hear of it" Hinata looked so downcast as she spoke.
That it made Sakura want to do something reckless "I'm sorry Hinata-chan I really wanted to study with you to, but that's okay so long as we get to hang out here in the academy and still be friends" Sakura patted Hinata on the back.
Before focusing on eating "Aren't you two a little close we just started the academy yesterday unless you've been friends for even longer before that" Sasuke piped in reminding them to his existence on the roof as well.
Sakura and Hinata turned "Nope we met yesterday but we understand each other, both of our Father's can be a little strict, though I definitely think her's takes the cake on that front" the pinkette huffed in slight annoyance.
Poor Hinata would never get to do anything normal like hang out with a friend after class or study in the library "Y..Yeah b..but Sakura-chan ri..right so long a..as we g..get to still be fr..friends i..it doesn't matter all that o..other stuff" the bluenette announced shyly.
Sasuke blinked "Well my Ni-san is coming to pick me up after academy since I don't have anything pressing I can ask him about going to the library with you to study, since my Father said I need to even though we only just started yesterday" the raven huffed.
Making them all giggle or snigger in amusement before they focused their attention on eating again, then the bell was ringing signaling the end of lunch and they snuck back down the steps and to their classroom where they were all led outside for more physical fitness.
Until it was time for their final lesson for the day, it was during this time that something occurred to Sakura, if Sasuke saw her samurai guards he was bound to ask questions on who they were and why they were guarding her, so she knew she'd have to tell him the truth as well.
And ask him not to tell, just as Iruka was getting ready to release them "Hey Forehead where do you get off on telling us to leave Sasuke-kun alone" Ino Yamanaka marched up to her, huffing and puffing with her arms crossed over her chest.
Iruka, who was still in the classroom at that point sighed and started making his way to the two girls to intervene but the pinkette had something to say which made him pause as she took a deep breath then started in.
"Because Ino-san, Sasuke-san is his own person and you should be more considerate of his feelings when he says to leave him alone himself, but it took interference on my part for him to be able to eat without getting bothered by you and the other girls in our class except Hinata-chan" Sakura said in an even tone.
Pupilless blue eyes widened before filling with tears "Truth is a harsh mistress and if you can't deal with that fact Ino-san then you shouldn't be friends with Ami-san, who bullies people, do you want to be like her and have no other friends because no one goes near you" Sakura continued.
Ino gaped in horror because she'd never thought of it like that "N..No" Ino mumbled before hightailing it out of the classroom not wanting to be told off anymore because she knew the pinkette was right about everything and she didn't want to deal with that fact just yet.
Sakura sighed feeling like a terrible person "D..Do you think I did the right thing Iruka-sensei" oh yes she knew her sensei was there, had been since the start of her scolding, one straight from the heart really that all the children beyond Ami, who'd left already had listened to.
"Yes Sakura-chan you did the right thing, now let's hope that Ino-chan understands and betters herself before she's alone with no friends" Iruka patted the girl gently on the head before ushering her towards the waiting bluenette.
Who latched on "Y..You we..were awesome Sakura-chan" Hinata exclaimed quietly as they headed towards the gates of the academy, which meant it was time to part from one another again until the next day.
Also waiting at the gates was Sasuke "Hey you still want to study at the library, my Ni-san is gonna take us" Sasuke waved beckoning one of the only two girls out of his entire class that didn't bother him in the least.
Sakura watched Hinata head off for another evening of clan training before marching towards Sasuke and his brother, who took one look at her and looked openly surprised "You didn't tell me that she was the Feudal Lord's Daughter Sasuke-kun" the teen commented.
Just as Sasuke went "Huh" in confusion Sakura visibly flinched and then her older cousin was right there standing at her side trying to figure out what was going on "Hang on who are you" Sasuke blinked at seeing a near identical person to his classmate.
"It's true and I meant to tell you and stuff, and this is Koeda-chan, my cousin" Sakura wrung her hands nervously before holding tightly to her cousin's sleeve, a beige kimono top with long sleeves that tightened at the wrists, much like her own training outfits.
Koeda sighed "You know Sakura-chan you are supposed to be undercover, however I think because you're an Uchiha I can let it slide, just please try to keep the secret and not let everyone know" Koeda stressed knowing the importance of hiding her cousin's status.
The older boy blinked "Understandable, now Sasuke-otouto mentioned something about studying at the library, ah my apologies I am Itachi Uchiha, his older brother, already part of Anbu Black Ops" Itachi spoke, then introduced himself.
"Have fun Sakura-chan just don't forget to come home when your supposed to or get lost in all those books" Koeda giggled gave her little cousin a hug then flounced off to home to do her homework leaving behind her cousin and her new friend possibly.
Now that they were alone again Itachi led his brother and his friend to the library, where they were met with two samurai, who made it very clear that they were Sakura's guards even if they didn't announce it verbally.
And so they studied "Ouch my brain hurts" Sasuke moaned cradling his aching cranium from studying for two hours straight and doing their limited homework since Iruka didn't want to set them to much since they just started.
It seemed though Sakura was more a book learner than physical at first glance "It seems what Koeda-san said was an understatement Sakura-san" Itachi chuckled when he spied the girl, her nose still buried in a book, while simultaneously finishing up her math homework.
"Quite Sakura has always been interested in books, my apologies I am Koron, this is my twin brother Kyogo" the green haired pink eyed female samurai spoke to him for the first time since they'd all entered the library and sat down.
Next to her side as she said were familiar features "Pleased to meet you Uchiha-san and it's good to know that Sakura-o….Sakura has a friend willing to study with her" Kyogo chuckled/winced when his sister's elbow found good purchase in his side for nearly slipping up.
They noticed though that even though Itachi had undoubtedly noticed their slip, he didn't comment on it "We'll study again tomorrow right Sasuke" Sakura asked hopefully, cause Sasuke and Hinata were all that she'd really managed to befriend so far.
Considering at least four of her classmates were bullies, one was lazy, one liked to eat, two were really loud and caused chaos wherever they went, another was kind of a show off i.e Sasuke and the last was super quiet and kind of faded into the background, the last was extremely shy.
Sasuke nodded eagerly "Can we Ni-san you know what Father said anyway, anything to help better myself in the academy" the raven said so seriously that his brother couldn't help but smile in amusement and ruffle his hair.
"Okay Otouto, you can study with your friend tomorrow" the thirteen year old relented to his brothers demands and just like that they all headed in different directions returning home to eat dinner, share that days events, take baths before going to bed.
The rest of the week passed by in a blur and before they all knew it Sakura's first week as an academy student had come and gone, it was Friday and Iruka-sensei was kind enough to let them out an hour early.
But when Sakura stepped foot on the play yard, with her still only two friends, Hinata and Sasuke adults that were standing around went quiet "What do you think is going on Sakura" Sasuke asked as they started slowly for the gates.
Where the rest of their classmates were gathered excitement in the air "No idea but it bet it's something only those guys are interested in" Sakura huffed pointing to their female classmates, who were surrounding a….her gaze flicked up, teenager.
Not just any teenager but one she was very familiar with, "D..Do yo..you know him S..Sakura-chan" Hinata noticed the recognition fill her friends peridot eyes as they started towards where their classmates were.
Itachi was also there stood next to the foreign teen, who when his gaze alighted on her, his lips quirked upwards at one corner of his mouth "Sakura" then he was holding open his arms and she was running into them.
"DARUI-KUN" Sakura squealed the loudest she ever had because it had been a year since she'd seen him, probably bursting Darui's eardrums in the process but he didn't seem to mind in the least as he merely held her close before placing her on her feet.
Right at his side and he was crouching to be eye level "I take that as an answer to the fact that ya really did miss me, got here a couple days early and was directed to the academy by Uchiha-san" Darui pointed his thumb at Itachi.
Who nodded in agreement "Course I missed you Darui-kun, it always takes me sending you a letter to get you to even come visit" the pinkette huffed until his hand was on her head and gently ruffling her short pink locks in affection.
Meanwhile "Just who is that guy anyway Hinata and why does Sakura know him in the first place" the raven haired boy had stood back with Hinata as Sakura had greeted the foreign teenager, complete with a headband from a foreign village.
Hinata was awestruck, her fears were unfounded because Darui really was nice to her friend "S..Sakura-chan's be..betrothed, th..they have to marry wh..when she tu..turns eighteen" the bluenette answered quietly.
And Sasuke nearly choked on his tongue but didn't dare say anything when Sakura joined them once again "A..Are we still going to the library" her cheeks were flushed with happiness and her eyes sparkled like never before, even if she was somehow out of breath.
Sasuke nodded numbly in shock as they left behind their classmates and poor Hinata, who still couldn't figure a way out of training or give her Father a legitimate reason why she had to study in the library especially since she was already being taught enough.
"You alright otouto, you seem a little confused" Itachi noticed his brothers furtive glance to their Country's Princess and the tall dark skinned teenager, he would be confused to, if Darui hadn't explained it to him.
Arranged marriages weren't that uncommon after all especially if it would create great ties with other countries "Why does she have to be in an arranged marriage, Mother said they suck awfully" Sasuke frowned/whispered.
Not really focusing on his homework "Relax kid it's not all that drab, besides it was her idea anyway, she took one look at me when she was three and went all want, it was cute" Darui chuckled making Sakura blush and hide her head in her arms.
Before letting out this long suffering sigh "Darui-kun do you tell that to everyone" Sakura whined softly acting like a general girl/princess really which made him adore her all the more, because she was a lot different than any other girl he'd met that was her age or older.
Itachi and Sasuke blinked before smiling at one another "Now time for you homework and lessons" Koron took over and Sakura relented, working on her calligraphy as she did her math and history homework first, then theory of chakra notes and lastly theory of jutsu notes.
All the while remaining straight in her seat and doing many other little things during the two hour study session they had before it was time go "We'll see you on Monday I suppose" Kyogo got a great kick out of how after every session the little Uchiha Heir still agreed to come back.
Proving him right in the next moment when Sasuke, despite the fact he was holding his head that pounded from all the information he'd shoved in it, nodded, then followed after his brother both giving silent waves.
"Ready Sakura" the dark skinned teen opened his arms expecting to have to carry her across the village, it's what she'd always expected when she'd been much younger, but to his surprise she merely took his hand and gave him a 1,000 megawatt smile.
Before nodding "Mhm" the pinkette hummed softly skipping along at Darui's side as they walked across the village to her Aunt and Uncles house, then they were entering through the door and Mebuki nearly threw a plate at Darui because it had been awhile.
Thankfully she didn't "Good heavens Darui-san what on earth are you doing here, how did you eve…oh Hono" Mebuki paused mid-rant as she remembered last Saturday when her niece had wrote letters before remembering that she'd also gotten replies that day.
"Yeah Mrs. Haruno nice to see you again by the way" Darui rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly feeling stupid for not sending a letter to tell them that he was coming, now his hasty leave from Cloud didn't seem so smart.
Mebuki pressed a hand over her heart "We're glad to see you again as well Darui-kun, heaven knows how much Sakura-chan talks about you" Kizashi teased and Sakura's cheeks turned a brilliant red in response.
Before she grabbed a pillow and totally unlike herself lobbed it at her uncle's face, which connected surprisingly "Guess we know who has good aim in this family" Koeda giggled at her Father's misfortune.
Little Eda clapping along happily to his sister's amusement, while Kizashi pouted at the children until they were all ushered into the kitchen "Nice throw by the way, bet your sensei is proud to have you in his class" the white haired teen chuckled lightly.
"A..Actually I can barely thrown my shuriken on a regular day, it always just clips the side of the target" Sakura admitted sheepishly causing laughter to fill the dining room as they ate before it was time for baths like usual.
Then bed time, Darui was assigned the room right across from Sakura's, he stayed in Leaf for two weeks and a couple of days before he had to go "Don't cry Sakura, I'll send a letter and if you ask I'll come back and visit again" Darui crouched before the young girl.
One hand on her head, the other brushing away her tears, it was thirty minutes before she had to be at the academy, but she'd wanted to see him off "I know D..Darui-kun but I'm gonna miss you" Sakura sniffled clutching his chunin vest tightly.
His onyx eyes softened "It's drab when you cry, I don't really understand girls very well, but I understand you better than most and I promise you this I'm never going to forget you, your it for me understand" the white haired teen cupped his finger under her chin.
So that their gaze could meet at his words she gasped and she nodded shyly "G..Guess I'll see you so..sometime Darui-kun" the pinkette sniffed wiping the rest of her tears away and stepping back into Kizashi as Darui rose to his full height.
Gave them all a wave goodbye, signed out at the gates and disappeared into the distance, there wasn't much more time to wallow for Sakura as she had to hurry to the academy and spend her day in class with her friends and classmates before being released like it had been for a solid three weeks.