Disclaimer:
This fanfiction is based on characters and settings from Naruto, which is owned by Masashi Kishimoto, Shueisha, Viz Media, and Studio Pierrot. I do not claim ownership of the original Naruto story, characters, or universe. This work is purely fan-made for entertainment purposes, and no profit is being made from its creation. All original plot elements, storylines, and character interpretations are my own. Please support the official release.

I lingered in my small courtyard, wrapped snugly in warmer clothes as the chill of winter began to wane. The garden, though still dormant, was alive with the anticipation of spring. I was deep in discussion with a few servants from the department that handled the flowers and gardens, going over plans for where each flower would be planted. The transition from winter to spring was always a delicate one, and I wanted to ensure that everything was perfect for when the warmer months arrived.

The cold air was crisp against my face, and I felt the faintest hint of spring's promise in the breeze. The flowerbeds were still barren, but the gardeners spoke with enthusiasm about their plans. We discussed colors and layouts, the anticipation of vibrant blooms almost tangible in the air.

As we spoke about tulips and daffodils, the familiar sound of approaching footsteps interrupted us. I turned to see Naruto walking towards me, his presence immediately bringing a smile to my face. He was dressed in his usual regal attire, but I could see the subtle weight of stress in his posture. I wrapped up our discussion with the garden department, telling them I'd review the plans again later, and directed my personal servants to prepare some hot tea and snacks. I asked them to include Naruto's favorites, and something sour for myself.

Once the servants had everything ready, I led Naruto into the main entertainment room, a space filled with warmth and comfort. The room was decorated in rich, calming tones, with plush cushions and a low table set with an assortment of tea and snacks. Naruto settled into one of the plush chairs, and I could tell he had something on his mind.

We sat across from each other, the gentle clink of china and the faint aroma of tea filling the air. I poured us both tea, and the quiet between us stretched for a moment before I broke it.

"What's on your mind?" I asked, my gaze steady as I handed him a cup.

Naruto took a deep breath before speaking. "It's about choosing my Empress. The council and my mother want me to make a decision now. They're saying that with the changes to the Empress Palace completed and so many members of the harem already with child, it's time to make an announcement. There's also pressure from the council to hold another selection for new harem members, but that can't happen until six months after the Empress is named."

I nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. The weight of such a decision was not lost on me. "Do you know who you want as your Empress?"

Naruto looked at me, a mix of determination and uncertainty in his eyes. "Yes, I've had someone in mind for a while now. But I'm not sure if it's the right time."

"If you've chosen them for a while and made changes to the Empress Palace to suit them, then perhaps it is time," I said gently. "You should trust your decision."

Naruto's tense expression softened into a grateful smile. "Thank you. I suppose I've been overthinking it. I'll make the announcement in two days, as you suggested."

He called over his servant and instructed him to inform the council, the Empress Dowager, and the rest of the harem about the upcoming announcement. As the servant bowed and left to carry out his orders, Naruto turned his attention back to me.

"How are you doing?" he asked. "And how is the baby?"

I placed a hand on my five-month-pregnant stomach and smiled. "We're both doing well. The servants are taking good care of me. They've been attentive to my needs, and the baby seems to be thriving."

As if on cue, my servants arrived with the tea and snacks. I picked up a sour treat and began nibbling on it, watching Naruto eye the selection with curiosity. He reached for a piece and hesitated. "Do you think I might like another one?" he asked, trying to avoid the sour options.

I offered him a sweet snack instead, explaining, "These are sweet, not sour. I thought you might prefer them."

Naruto took the sweet treat with a nod. "Thank you. I didn't remember that you preferred sour snacks. It's good to know."

One of my personal servants, ever observant, chimed in, "Normally, Shikamaru doesn't care for sour foods, but since he's been pregnant, he's had a strong preference for them. He can't stand spicy foods at all."

Naruto's eyes widened slightly, and he leaned back thoughtfully. "There's an old wives' tale I remember from when I was young. They said that those carrying a sire child crave sour foods, while those carrying a bearer child crave spicy foods."

I chuckled softly. "I've heard that tale too. It's interesting how such things are passed down. My own mother craved sour foods while she was pregnant with me. But I've learned that wives' tales aren't always accurate. I don't care if the child is a bearer or a sire; what matters is their health. And in my case, it seems the tale didn't hold true."

Naruto nodded, seeming to take comfort in my words. We continued our conversation, discussing lighter topics and enjoying our tea and snacks. The room was filled with a sense of calm, and I found myself grateful for these moments of tranquility.

As the evening progressed, I reflected on the upcoming announcement and the changes that lay ahead. The future was uncertain, but I was hopeful that everything would turn out well. For now, I was content with the present and looked forward to what lay ahead. The warmth of the room and the company of Naruto provided a comforting sense of stability as I prepared for the days to come.