CHAPTER 7

Later that evening, Sakura sat with her parents in a cozy but elegant room, far removed from the grandeur of the main palace halls. The air between them was thick with disbelief, the reality of the situation sinking in with every passing second. Mebuki sat primly, her hands folded neatly in her lap, her face pale but composed, betraying little except the occasional flicker of concern in her eyes. Kizashi, by contrast, was visibly nervous, rubbing his hands together and shifting restlessly in his seat. Despite his usual jovial personality, even he couldn't quite mask the worry bubbling beneath his surface.

"Our Sakura, a queen," Kizashi muttered, half in awe, half in disbelief. "How did this even happen?"

Sakura shook her head, her thoughts spinning. "I didn't ask for this, I don't even know what's supposed to happen next. I'm… I'm not ready for this."

Mebuki reached over, her hand resting gently on Sakura's arm. "None of us are, dear. But we'll figure it out. You've always been stronger than you think."

Before any more could be said, the door opened and three figures stepped in. The first was Neji Hyūga, whose aristocratic bearing made his entrance feel as though he were presiding over an important state affair. The second was a woman Sakura hadn't seen before—a no-nonsense figure with a sharp gaze. And finally, there was a young man with a casual slouch, hands in his pockets, his expression bordering on lazy indifference but with eyes that seemed far sharper than his posture suggested.

Neji stepped forward, offering a polite nod. "Miss Haruno, Mr. and Mrs. Haruno," he greeted them formally. "I'm Neji Hyūga. I work closely with the royal family on various political and strategic matters. I'm here to ensure you are briefed properly on what will come next."

Sakura nodded awkwardly, feeling like she was entering an entirely new world with every word.

The woman stepped up next. "I'm Tenten," she said with a small, curt nod. "I handle logistics within the palace. I'll be overseeing much of the planning for the upcoming transition and events."

Finally, the man with his hands still casually tucked into his pockets that she'd also seen before glanced at Sakura with a lazy smile. "Shikamaru Nara," he said, his tone casual but confident, and Sakura recognized him as the man lurking in the shadows when she met the royal family earlier. "I work behind the scenes, mostly strategic planning and publicity. I make sure everything runs smoothly."

Sakura blinked, still absorbing everything. These people, these figures who seemed to move so effortlessly in royal circles, were now part of her life—part of her future. It didn't seem real.

Neji cleared his throat and began the briefing. "As I'm sure you're aware, the palace is moving forward with plans for the wedding. It's been decided that the ceremony will take place next spring, a year from now. This will allow ample time for preparation, training, and public announcements."

Kizashi, ever the practical one when it came to his family, leaned forward slightly. "And what does that mean for Sakura? What kind of 'preparation' are we talking about?"

Tenten took over, speaking with precision. "There's much for Sakura to learn in the coming year. While she seems to already possess a fair grasp of political knowledge—especially given her background in political science—there's a refinement that needs to happen. She'll be trained in everything required to fulfill her role as queen."

Sakura's heart raced. "Trained? In what?"

Neji nodded, his voice steady. "Your education will be comprehensive. You'll learn the traditions of Nippon Koku, the monarchy's history, and the role of the queen within the governmental structure. You'll also need to understand diplomacy—how to manage relations with foreign dignitaries and navigate the complexities of international politics. It's critical that you can represent the kingdom with grace."

Tenten added, "You'll also undergo lessons in economic policies, overseeing public welfare programs, and managing charitable initiatives. The queen plays a significant role in maintaining the kingdom's internal stability, and you'll need to be well-versed in these areas."

Shikamaru chimed in, his voice calm. "There will be a focus on decision-making, public perception, and how to handle both the aristocracy and the media. You'll also need to learn the intricacies of palace operations—what goes on behind the scenes, and what you'll be expected to oversee on a daily basis."

Tenten's voice softened slightly. "Mikoto Uchiha, Sasuke's mother, will be directly involved in your training. She will teach you how to carry yourself as a queen, how to handle public appearances, and how to interact with both the nobility and the common people. You'll also have lessons with Izumi Uchiha, Itachi's wife. She'll guide you on matters of royal etiquette and diplomacy."

Sakura felt a pit of anxiety grow in her stomach as the list of responsibilities grew longer with each passing moment. She wasn't just stepping into a role—she was being shaped, molded into something she didn't fully understand. "And… what about languages?" she asked quietly, trying to keep up with the barrage of new information.

Neji nodded. "Yes, there will be language lessons. You'll need to learn to communicate with foreign dignitaries, and while many speak common languages, fluency in at least two additional languages will be expected. This will help in negotiations and in maintaining relationships with other nations."

"And what about His Majesty?" Kizashi asked, his voice a little sharper than intended. "Will he be part of this? Will they be learning together?"

Shikamaru shrugged lazily. "His Majesty has his own responsibilities. The truth is, he's incredibly busy. His schedule is… well, let's say it's packed. While you may have a few lessons together, particularly those that involve joint appearances or ceremonial duties, most of your training will be separate from him."

Tenten nodded in agreement. "You'll need to become proficient on your own. His Majesty is the king, and his duties are extensive. This preparation is for you."

Sakura felt the weight of those words settle heavily on her shoulders. Sasuke was not going to be there to help guide her through this. He was wrapped up in his own world, his own duties, and she was expected to figure out how to carry her own burden.

Mebuki, who had been silent up until this point, finally spoke. Her voice was steady but filled with concern. "And what happens to her… emotionally, during all of this? You've spoken of lessons and schedules, but how will she cope?"

Neji's gaze softened, and even Tenten's no-nonsense demeanor seemed to relax. "We understand this is overwhelming, Mrs. Haruno," Neji said. "This is a massive transition for your daughter, and she will have a support system. The palace is equipped to handle these transitions, and Sakura will have guidance every step of the way."

Shikamaru, still leaning against the wall, added, "It'll be tough. But if there's one thing I've learned from all of this, it's that people can adapt. You'll get through it, Sakura."

Sakura nodded slowly, her mind reeling from the enormity of what lay ahead. A year of training to become queen. Lessons with Mikoto and Izumi, handling diplomacy, learning languages, navigating palace life. She didn't know if she was strong enough for it.

But as she looked at her parents—her mother's calm determination and her father's hopeful worry—Sakura realized that they believed in her. And maybe, just maybe, she could believe in herself too.

"We'll start the preparations immediately," Neji said, his voice final. "The palace will send details of your schedule soon. There's much to do, but we'll make sure you're ready."

Sakura had one last opportunity to return to her apartment, the small, familiar space that had been her sanctuary for so many years. An aide accompanied her, offering to help her pack, but she politely dismissed him, needing this time for herself. The apartment was quiet, filled with the small comforts she had always taken for granted—her neatly arranged bookshelf, the herb jars lining the kitchen counter, her favorite worn-out blanket draped across the couch. All of it felt so… ordinary compared to the monumental shift her life was about to take.

She slowly walked into her bedroom, her eyes scanning the room. The bed, the one place she'd always found solace, suddenly felt like a stranger. She sat down on the edge of it, staring at her hands as the enormity of the situation washed over her again.

Married.

That word echoed in her mind, a relentless reminder that in twelve months, she would be married. And not just to anyone, but to the king. King Sasuke Uchiha. A man she had only exchanged a few words with, a man who seemed cold, distant, and utterly absorbed in his duties. The thought of marrying him felt surreal, like something out of a fantasy that had taken a wrong turn into reality.

Sakura rested her head in her hands, taking slow, deep breaths. What is this going to be like? she wondered, trying to wrap her mind around the concept of marrying someone she barely knew. Their meeting had been so brief, so formal, that she hadn't had the chance to gauge what kind of man he truly was. Would they even have a relationship beyond the public facade of a king and queen? Or would they be two strangers who only crossed paths for official duties, bound together by a crown rather than any real emotional connection?

When will I even see him next? she thought bitterly. On the day of our wedding? Sasuke had seemed so busy, so preoccupied with the affairs of the kingdom that it was hard to imagine him making time for her, let alone for a marriage. Would they ever get the chance to talk, to connect, or was this simply a transactional arrangement for him?

Sakura stood up and walked toward her window, staring out at the street below. There was no out, no escape from the path that had been laid before her. The best she could hope for was to be a queen who did her duty, to make her country proud, to make Sasuke proud. She might never have the love she had imagined for herself, but she could strive to be a partner worthy of the title of queen.

With a deep sigh, Sakura began gathering her things—a few personal belongings, some clothes, a couple of her books—and placed them in a small suitcase. The rest of her things would be brought to the palace later, but for now, this felt like she was saying goodbye to a version of herself she wasn't sure she'd ever get back.

The farewell with her parents was tearful but filled with the quiet acceptance of their new reality. Mebuki held Sakura's hands tightly, whispering words of encouragement and strength. "You'll do great," she said softly, though her eyes betrayed the worry she couldn't quite hide. Kizashi, meanwhile, tried to keep the mood light, cracking a few nervous jokes even as he hugged his daughter tightly.

"Remember, if you need a break from the royal life, you can always come back to the shop," Kizashi joked, though his voice cracked slightly at the end. "You'll always be our Sakura."

Sakura nodded, trying to keep her tears at bay. "I'll come visit when I can," she promised, though the uncertainty of that statement hung heavily in the air.

With one last look at her parents, Sakura was escorted out of her apartment, her heart heavy, and moved into the palace estates. Her new home was an apartment in the guest wing, elegant and much grander than anything she had ever lived in. The plush carpets, luxurious furniture, and vast windows overlooking the palace gardens made it clear that her life had officially changed.

The next morning, Sakura awoke in her new apartment within the palace's guest wing. The luxurious surroundings still felt foreign to her—the soft, silk sheets, the intricately carved furniture, and the panoramic windows overlooking the pristine gardens. It was a far cry from the small, cozy apartment she had left behind. Everything in this place felt like it belonged to someone else, someone far more important than her.

As she sat up in bed, still groggy from a restless night, there was a soft knock on the door. She instinctively pulled the covers tighter around herself, suddenly feeling out of place in her own room.

"Come in," Sakura called, her voice hesitant.

The door opened to reveal a young woman, bowing slightly as she stepped inside. She was elegant, with long, dark hair and striking pale lavender eyes that immediately drew Sakura's attention.

"Good morning," the woman said, her voice soft and calming. "My name is Hinata Hyūga. I've been assigned as your lady-in-waiting."

Sakura blinked, her mind connecting the dots as she stared at Hinata's eyes, their pale color strikingly familiar. Hyūga? Like… Neji? The resemblance was undeniable—the same pale eyes, the same quiet grace. Sakura realized Hinata must be related to Neji, the stoic man who had been briefing her the day before.

"You're… related to Neji Hyūga, aren't you?" Sakura asked, her curiosity getting the better of her.

Hinata smiled softly, her eyes flickering with a hint of surprise. "Yes. Neji is my cousin."

Sakura nodded slowly, her thoughts racing. The Hyūga family's influence must have run deeper than she initially realized. Neji had carried himself with a sense of authority, and now, here was Hinata, calm and composed, clearly trained to handle the intricacies of palace life. It seemed that no matter where Sakura turned, she was surrounded by people who had been bred for this kind of environment. She, on the other hand, felt like an outsider fumbling her way through.

"It's… nice to meet you," Sakura finally said, offering Hinata a small smile. "I'm still trying to get used to all of this."

Hinata nodded sympathetically, as though she understood how overwhelming it must be. "It's a lot to take in, but I'm here to help you with anything you need. I'll assist you with your schedule and daily tasks, and if you ever feel lost or overwhelmed, don't hesitate to ask for guidance."

Sakura appreciated Hinata's calm demeanor. She had feared being paired with someone who would look down on her or treat her as less-than-royal, but Hinata's kindness was reassuring.

Hinata handed her a small folder, her expression soft but serious. "This is your official schedule. Your days will be quite full, starting today."

Sakura hesitated for a moment before opening the folder. Her eyes scanned the detailed timetable inside, and her stomach dropped. Every hour of her day had been meticulously planned—from lessons in etiquette and diplomacy to history briefings, public appearances, and ceremonial duties. There were even blocks of time designated for language lessons.

A frown tugged at Sakura's lips. "A photoshoot?" she asked incredulously, spotting the first item on the schedule.

"Yes," Hinata confirmed gently. "The palace needs official portraits for the public announcement. You'll also receive a new wardrobe for your status as the future queen."

Sakura's head was spinning. A photoshoot? A new wardrobe? This all seemed so superficial when compared to the enormity of her new responsibilities. How was she supposed to learn to be a queen if her first task was to smile for the cameras? But she supposed this was part of the deal—the public needed to see her as a future queen, even if she wasn't sure she could live up to the role.

"And this?" Sakura asked, flipping through the schedule further. "I have a security detail?"

Hinata nodded, glancing toward the door as it opened again. A tall man with silver hair and a sharp gaze stepped inside, his presence imposing. He stood still, his expression unreadable, a living reminder that Sakura's life would never again be private.

"This is, Kimimaru, your personal guard," Hinata explained, her tone matter-of-fact. "He will accompany you wherever you go."

Sakura sighed, the weight of everything pressing down on her. She wasn't just entering a life of service—she was entering a life of constant scrutiny, of having every step, every word, every action monitored.

She glanced back down at the schedule, her eyes trailing over the endless list of appointments and lessons. She had expected that there would be a lot to learn, but this seemed beyond impossible. Every single day was packed with something new—etiquette lessons with Mikoto Uchiha, lessons on diplomatic relations and governance with royal advisors, economic policies, foreign relations, cultural responsibilities, language classes… it never ended.

"I… don't know if I can do this," Sakura admitted softly, mostly to herself.

Hinata, sensing her doubt, offered a gentle smile. "It may seem overwhelming now, but you're not alone. We all have faith in you."

Sakura nodded, though she wasn't entirely sure she shared that faith. "And His Majesty?" she asked after a moment. "Will I… will we have any lessons together? Or… meet?"

Hinata hesitated before answering. "His Majesty...he has a very demanding schedule. While there may be a few joint appearances and ceremonial lessons, most of your training will be separate from him."

Sakura's heart sank. She had figured as much, but hearing it confirmed only deepened her anxiety. Sasuke was a king, after all. He had the entire kingdom to manage, and she was just… someone thrown into this whirlwind. She had no idea how or when they would connect, let alone how they would navigate a marriage. It was daunting.

As if reading her thoughts, Hinata added, "It's a lot to take in, I know. But you've already shown great strength, and there are many people here to guide you."

Sakura nodded again, feeling the pressure building in her chest. "Thank you, Hinata," she said quietly. "I guess we better get started, then."

Hinata gave her a reassuring nod, and Sakura stood, her legs feeling shaky as she prepared to face the day. This was her life now—a life filled with endless lessons, appearances, and responsibilities. It wasn't what she had imagined for herself, but it was the path she was on, and she knew that if she couldn't find her footing for herself, she at least had to do it for the people who were counting on her.

As she followed Hinata out of the apartment, Sakura glanced back one last time. The life she had known, the quiet simplicity of it, was now a distant memory. She was stepping into a new world—one she wasn't sure she belonged in but had no choice but to embrace.

It was time to become the queen they expected her to be.

tbc

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