Night, December 27, Year 16 of Konoha.
The bustle at the Toyotomi Clan Grounds had faded. Red lanterns swayed gently in the night breeze, casting warm, soft halos. The guests departed, satisfied with their food and drink and full of gossip. Servants cleared away the remains of the festivities, the clatter of dishes echoing through the spacious hall before gradually falling silent.
Inside the bridal chamber, Sakura Haruno sat on the edge of a bed spread with a bright red brocade quilt, a red bridal veil still covering her head.
Her heart raced, and her palms were slightly damp. She heard footsteps outside-steady, unhurried, carrying the certainty of someone who had everything under control.
The door opened.
Toyotomi Yinglang walked in.
He said nothing, simply approaching her and stopping before her. Sakura Haruno could see the edges of his boots, the hem of his deep red ceremonial robes, and his long, strong hands.
He reached out and gently lifted her veil.
In the candlelight, Sakura Haruno's face was faintly flushed, her gaze a little evasive. Not daring to look at him, she lowered her head and stared at her knees.
"Nervous?" Toyotomi Yinglang's voice held a faint hint of amusement.
"N-no." Her voice was so quiet it was almost inaudible.
Toyotomi Yinglang said nothing more. He simply reached out and gently lifted her chin, making her raise her head and look into his eyes.
Those eyes were deep and dark, as though they could swallow all light. Yet within that darkness, Sakura Haruno saw a trace of... rare gentleness.
"From today onward, you are Consort Ying." His voice was soft, yet carried an unquestionable certainty. "Her Highness Consort Ying of the Great British Empire."
Sakura Haruno felt a sting in her nose, and her eyes reddened slightly.
She remembered her