Chapter Text
Madara tried not to be a grump the next morning. Yesterday had been such a fun day but today Tobirama had duties to attend to and no matter how much pouting Madara did, he couldn’t keep Tobirama from doing his job. He wouldn’t let himself or Tobirama for that matter. At least getting high didn’t leave him with a massive hang over. Plus this gave him an opportunity to ask Hashirama about Tobirama extending his stay at the Uchiha compound. He was dreading it a bit. He knew it would be difficult, Tobirama was not only an integral part of the Senju clan but Hashirama’s household. He knew it would make Momo sad that Tobirama would be away and that was really the last thing he wanted to do. That said nothing about how Hashirama would feel about it. What kind of older brother wants their younger sibling to be away from home more than necessary?
Tobirama had walked him to Hashirama house before leaving for his duties. He couldn’t help himself from staring at their linked hands as they walked through the compound. Madara stood on Hashirama’s front porch, watching Tobirama walk off. Tobirama had at least given him a goodbye kiss to the cheek before leaving. It wasn’t long before children began to approach Tobirama, they seemed to be talking excitedly - if the movements of their hands and arms were anything to go by. Exhaling slowly, he turned to knock at the front door.
“Good morning Madara!” Hashirama opened the door. “How are you feeling? How was the rest of your night?” He asked, ushering Madara into his home.
“Good morning, Kami you’re fucking chipper today.” Madara raised a brow as he entered. “Feeling pretty good, honestly I was surprised not to feel hung over this morning.” He said. “It was good, we worked on Tobirama’s new jutsu and then tried to make cookies but that didn’t work out well.”
“Oh no! Did you two mess up the recipe?” Hashirama asked.
“No, we uh got distracted and burnt the cookies.” Madara flushed, looking away from Hashirama.
“Distracted? Oh I see.” Hashirama chuckled as he elbowed Madara. “I’m glad you two are getting on so well, really. It’s really sweet. Though, when you get high, you can be a bit much.” Hashirama teased. “You were just chatting away praising your fiance! I don’t think I’ve ever heard you babbler so much about another person. Though you did like to ramble about your birds.” Hashirama hummed.
“Oh Kami.” Madara groaned, covering his face. “How fucking embarrassing.”
“No, not at all, it was sweet. So adorable.” Hashirama said, patting his shoulder. “I was glad to see you two getting along so well and bonding emotionally. Not that I’m asking for specifics but how is courting going?” He asked, wrapping an arm around Madara’s shoulder as he led Madara further into the house. “Come, let's go sit and talk in my office.”
“Truthfully I’d say as perfect as two imperfect people can be. Though, there was actually something I wished to discuss with you that’s rather important.” Madara said, following after Hashirama.
“Oh? Is everything okay?” Hashirama asked as they made their way into his office.
Madara remembered it from his first visit, it was where they had spoken privately about the truth of the Uchiha’s situation. He hoped this conversation wouldn’t be as embarrassing. And that it went just as well. “Yeah, everything is good, plus I wanted to thank you for the shipment you sent. The clan really appreciated it … I really appreciated what you did. It means so much, our head cook cried apparently.”
“Well, it really was all Tobirama. When he came home, after his nap, he was adamant that we do something to help out the Uchiha … I know you told me the Uchiha were struggling with money but I didn’t realize your clan was struggling so hard.” Hashirama said softly, taking his seat behind his desk. “I would have sent help long before now. We’re still figuring out what we can spare from our armory but I promise you’ll have a shipment in for your shinobis as well.”
“I really can’t thank you enough, we are expecting a large payment from our smiths wares but it takes time for goods to sell.” Madara said, looking down. “Really, I would have been happy with any kind of help, so the fact you sent so much, meant a lot.”
“It’s stressful enough running a clan, protecting your people. Nothing to say if you’re having money problems on top of it … I hadn’t realized it had gotten so bad. Don’t ever be afraid to come to me if you need help, okay? You’re my best friend, after my wife of course.” Hashirama pointed out.
“Of course, thank you.” Madara nodded. “And after Tobirama and I marry, we’ll really be brothers, just like we talked about when we were kids. Well brother-in-laws.”
“Same difference, so what did you want to discuss?” Hashirama asked, smiling as he leaned on his desk.
“Well, it’s about Tobirama -everything is fine. Nothing bad, just the elder council and myself would like it if when he comes to visit if he could stay longer?” Madara asked, wincing at how it sounded. “I know he’s not only an important part of the clan but also of course your household but the elders would like it if the clan saw him and I together more. In public. To help the rest of the clan get to know him better, most of the Uchiha civilians only hear what the shinobis say and … most of them don’t look on Tobirama favorably. Of course the shipment from him and the Senju have started turning things around.”
“Actually I was going to suggest the same thing.” Hashirama clapped his hands. “I know you two write to each other often but it’s not the same as spending time together. I spent weeks at a time with the Uzumaki while I was courting Mito. So I completely understand and support this. Tobirama will be moving to the Uchiha compound after you marry and at least until we get both clans on board with a village I want him to be able to make the Uchiha compound home.” Hashirama nodded.
Madara couldn’t help but relax now. He was so relieved that not only was Hashirama on board with Tobirama spending more time with him in the Uchiha compound but had been thinking of suggesting it himself. “Thank you.”
“I know we briefly discussed my hesitation with your marriage to Tobirama but I’m glad to find my worries were totally unfounded.” Hashirama said softly. “The way you two were interacting yesterday, how softly you look at him … I’m glad to see you two falling in love.” He sighed happily. Hashirama was honestly so pleased to see Madara and his brother clearly falling for each other. Plus they were adorable together. Not that he would tell them that
Madara couldn’t stop the flush covering his face. While he could not, would not deny what Hashirama was saying but having it pointed out was a little embarrassing. While he couldn’t say he was in love with Tobirama currently, he cared deeply for the alpha. Enjoyed his company and was deeply attracted to him. He wouldn’t be surprised if by their wedding he could say confidently that he loved him.
“No need to be shy about it, it’s a good thing! I know Tobirama feels the same about you.” Hashirama pointed out, waving his hands. “It’s really only noticeable since I know both you and Tobirama so well.”
“He does?” Madara looked up.
“Yeah, Tobirama wouldn’t have given this a chance if he didn’t think he could be happy with you. He’s had plenty of partners, some he’s never even introduced me to. It’s clear he cares about you and I would say you’re both on your way to falling in love.” Hashirama gushed. “And it’s so damn cute!” Smooshing his own cheeks.
“You think?” Madara asked, looking down as he thought over Hashirama’s words. “I do really like Tobirama … he’s sweet, strong, honest, and so fucking kind.” Madara continued, his voice getting softer. “Kinder than I think people give him credit for.”
“That is he, really. So many people don’t see past who he is as a shinobi, his name forever tied with tales of the Senju White Demon … people don’t stop to think that, perhaps not all of those tales are actually him.” Hashirama grinned. “It’s a relief to see you see past all that.”
“What do you mean? They weren’t all Tobirama?” Madara frowned. “You can’t just say something like that and not expand on it!” Madara whined, slamming his hands on the table. “And why would I care about all that, anyway? We are shinobi, he’s never done anything I haven’t done myself.”
“Well, if one were to look closely at the records, there are plenty of accounts of a mission the White Demon ran while Tobirama was clearly somewhere else.” Hashirama said, grinning slowly. “And henges are quite easy when you know someone so well.” He added with a wink.
“Well I be damned.” Madara sat back. He had of course heard a number of tales, but also had seen Tobirama’s skill and strength on the battlefield plenty of times with his own eyes. It wouldn’t have surprised him with Tobirama’s skill and speed to be able to complete some of those missions back to back. But there being someone else, like Hashirama, working as the Senju White Demon as well made more sense. “That’s very clever of you, build up his reputation to the point that his name itself is a deterrent.” He nodded.
“Exactly, you could say it was a joint effort.” Hashirama chuckled at his own joke.
Madara laughed, shaking his head. “You have hardly changed, still making lame jokes.” He said smiling. “I’m really happy that Tobirama and I’s courting is going so well. Of course I’m glad you’re happy about it but the Uchiha are warming up to him as well. And people are beginning to see the Senju favorably as well. Honestly this all worked out much better than I had hoped. I think with time we will be able to sell the idea of a joint village to the Uchiha with very little push back.” He pointed out.
“That’s excellent, the Senju are unsure about the idea but if we can show them how well Tobirama has been welcomed into the Uchiha and accepted I don’t see there being further issues with the Senju.” Hashirama nodded.
“I mean his looks do help in that, of which most Senju would not get the same grace.” Madara explained gesturing to Hashirama.
“What do you mean by his looks?” Hashirama raised a brow, a bit confused by Madara’s words. “What’s wrong with my looks? Am I ugly?” He pouted.
“No, that’s not what I mean. Well white hair and red eyes are found to be rather attractive to Uchiha, not just because of the sharingan but because they are reflections of our goddess Amaterasu.” Madara pointed out. “Someone with white hair and red eyes are considered blessed by her. So by his looks alone, Tobirama is more liked by the Uchiha than compared to you. Because they see Tobirama as being blessed by Amaterasu, where you were not.”
“Interesting, do you believe that as well, is that why you were first interested in courting Tobirama?” Hashirama asked. He knew Amaterasu was important to the Uchiha but really had no idea so much so. The Senju worshiped multiple gods and none over another but it seemed the Uchiha did prefer one of their gods over the others.
“I can’t say if someone with white hair and red eyes is more blessed than any other. My younger brother was considered blessed with dark skin and white hair but he still died. But no, his looks were not a factor in my agreeing to the match.” He added. “They are just an added bonus.”
“Then why did you agree to the marriage? Not saying Tobirama isn’t a catch because he is but I’ve been curious about it.” Hashirama asked, resting his chin on the palm of his hand.
“After my first courting disaster, I knew I needed to be more careful when choosing a potential partner.” Madara began. “With how the council was acting, despite having my father’s support-with me being the first omega clan head heir I had to be very careful when I picked a spouse. Because it had to be someone who the council could not push to take my seat. As well as someone who could support my position and the work I have. Tobirama fits all those, no matter how much the Uchiha grow to like him the council and the rest of the clan will not push him to take my position as clan head. Plus he has the skills of supporting a clan head already, a job that has been doing since you became clan head and done very well.” He pointed out. “He’s an accomplished shinobi, talented, skilled in a number of areas, and very intelligent. He really is a catch, everything I needed and wanted in a partner plus he’s very attractive.” Ha added, flushing a bit.
“Well I can’t deny all those things, I’m glad that Tobirama is not only a good match but someone you’ve grown to care for as well.” Hashirama nodded.
“I had hoped for a love match, but I had been willing to forgo that if needed but I’m very lucky to have found everything I wanted in a partner as well as being able to grow a love match with him.” Madara said, sighing softly. “I’m really lucky and the fact Tobirama wants the same thing is just as important. I couldn’t have a love match if Tobirama did not also want that.”
“I’m glad you two are such a good match, I was worried about it. So, I’m glad I was wrong to be so worried about it.” Hashirama nodded.
“You’re not wrong for being worried about it, I know I worry about my younger brothers. Neither have shown much interest in settling down but when the time comes I know I’ll be concerned. I want them to be happy and in good relationships, regardless of who they choose.” He added.
“Well, is there anything else you wished to discuss?” Hashirama asked.
“Honestly no, with Tobirama busy today I’m up for doing anything as long as you’re free today as well? I don’t wish to interrupt your day-” Madara begins before he’s cut off.
“You’re not interrupting anything, I had all my meetings yesterday and all my paperwork is caught up. Promise! Let me show you around the compound. I know the Senju compound will not be your home but with your marriage to Tobirama we will be kin. I want you to get to know the Senju and the Senju get to know you.” Hashirama explained. “It’ll make the future of our joint village run smoother if the people see and know you better than just The Uchiha Calamity.”
“Well, let’s not dally further, show me around.” Madara clapped his hands, standing up from his chair.
“Excellent! Let’s go! Oh I can’t wait to show you the first tree I grew -oh and my gardens! Momo is the best weed puller ever!” Hashirama cheered, grabbing Madara’s wrist and dragging him out of the office.
“I hope you’re talking about actual weeds and not cannabis?” Madara allowed himself to be dragged.
“Of course not cannabis! Mito put her foot down on letting Momo try cannabis until she was old enough to drink!” Hashirama laughed.
——
When Hashirama had said he’d show him the first tree grown using Mokuton he hadn’t expected something so large. It truly was a testament to Hashirama’s strength. And the gardens were far more like sets of massive green houses outside the main Senju compound. It seemed like Hashirama still did nothing if it wasn’t massive. He mainly listened while Hashirama babbled about everything. It was nice to listen to his friend fill the silence. And he felt like he was being introduced to every person they came across. He felt a bit awkward, probably as much as each farmer Hashirama introduced him to.
He just had to think it would be a good idea to get to know the Senju. Not that any of them didn’t seem nice but he was not good with socializing. Kuro and Izuna pointed it out often, he didn’t think his forced smile was enough for people who were used to Hashirama’s easy, bright smile. But he at least tried to make small talk with them. Or at the very least leave it to Hashirama to fill the void. And really, spending time with Hashirama, just letting the alpha drag him around wasn’t all that bad. Not as fun as hanging out with Tobirama but good enough.
“We’ve got to get you out of your shell more!” Hashirama said as they left behind another stunned group of Senju.
“I’m perfectly happy in my shell, thank you.” Madara huffed, letting Hashirama wrap an arm around his shoulders. “You’re loud enough for us both.”
“Yeah but it’s easier to make friends if you’re louder.” He pointed out.
“Who said I’m here to make friends?” Madara asked, raising a brow as he looked up at the alpha.
“Come on Madara! Don’t be a party pooper!” Hashirama whined. “It’s important for people to have friends! You can’t just hole yourself up with Tobirama all the time!” He said.
“I will do as I please!” Madara shoved Hashirama off of him. “If I want to hole up with my mate that’s what we’ll do.” He huffed, crossing his arms.
“Awww you haven’t changed at all, still all anti-social! Don’t worry, I’ll help you make friends! Even that scary scowl won’t scare everyone away.” Hashirama said, cupping Madara’s face to smoosh his cheeks.
“Hasn’t scared you away yet.” Madara huffed, swatting Hashirama’s hands away. “Despite all my hard work in throwing you as far away as possible.”
“You know I still can’t tell if you two are actually friends or not?” Tobirama said, suddenly appearing.
“Tobi! Of course we’re best friends! How can you not tell?” Hashirama gasped at his younger brother. “Madara, tell Tobirama I’m your best friend!” He said, turning to Madara.
“Hm I don’t know Hashirama, I don’t think I can lie to my fiance.” Madara sighed sadly. He had to cover his mouth to hide his smile as Hashirama began to whine and pout. It was quite pitiful to see a man of Hashirama’s stature hunched over crying like a toddler.
“Oh Madara, don’t leave the poor man to die in such misery.” Tobirama groaned, shaking his head. “Please put him out of his misery, for all of our sakes.”
“Come now, Hashirama the tears are unnecessary-”
“You said I’m not your best friend!” Hashirama cried. “I’ll never recover! I’m just going to lay down and turn into mushrooms! The mushrooms love me!” He sniffled, flopping down onto the ground.
“Hashirama, you can’t be my best friend-” Madara groaned as Hashirama just wailed louder.
“Oh Kami, save us all before he really turns into a giant fungus.” Tobirama groaned, covering his face in shame.
“Hashirama! Mito is your best friend right? Before me?” Madara leaned down to look at the alpha.
“Uh-uh.” Hashirama nodded.
“Well then I can’t have you be my first best friend because that would have to be Tobirama as my future husband. So you’d be my best friend after Tobirama.” Madara explained. “So all these tears and dramatics are unnecessary.”
“I guess you’re right.” Hashirama sniffled, slowly sitting up.
“Of course I am, now come on, no one wants to see their clan head crying on the ground.” He added, offering his hand to Hashirama.
“Okay.” Hashirama finally said, taking Madara’s hand and letting himself be lifted up.
“All that crying for nothing. You’re ridiculous.” Tobirama sighed, shaking his head.
“Aw but would you love me if I wasn’t like this?” Hashirama asked, hugging Tobirama.
“I might love you more.” Tobirama replied drily giving Hashirama a flat look.
“Oh! Tobi you wound me so! Only family can hurt you like this! Betrayal!” Hashirama cried out, dropping to his knees. “Betrayal of the highest! Oh I’ll never recover!” He wailed.
“Kami Tobirama, I just got him to stop crying!” Madara huffed, throwing his hands up.
“He’s like a toddler really. He throws tantrums all the time, seriously he’s worse than Momo.” Tobirama sighed, crossing his arms over his chest as he glared down at Hashirama.
Madara was about to speak when someone approached. He assumed they’d ask if their own clan head was okay but no. Instead the man began a conversation about training and guard rotations with Tobirama. All while Hashirama knelt in front of him crying.
“Is this normal?!” Madara snapped, gesturing at Hashirama.
“Ah yes, Madara-sama? Hashirama-sama often has emotional outbursts.” The man said, raising a brow. “I’d imagine as often in private as in public.”
“More often in private but pretty much.” Tobirama shrugged.
“Urg Kami, Hashirama you’re an embarrassment to clan heads.” Madara growled. “Stop crying, Tobirama is messing with you.” He said, trying to drag Hashirama into standing.
“Is that true Tobi? Are you messing with me?” He asked, blinking his tears away.
“Unfortunately.” Tobirama sighed deeply.
“Oh then all is forgiven! What sibling relationship doesn’t have a bit of teasing?” He clapped his hands happily.
Madara felt like he was going to have whiplash from dealing with Hashirama’s quick changing emotional outburst. He shook his head trying not to think about it too much. It was Mito’s job to deal with him.
Tobirama turned to look at Madara, “shall we ditch him?” He asked, leaning towards Madara.
“We should, better than watching him have another melt down.” Madara whispered.
“No! No whispering! You two are coming over for dinner!” Hashirama yelled. “No sneaking off and getting high without me again!”
“Buzz kill.” Tobirama huffed to hide his smile.
“I suppose we could sit through dinner with you, at least we have Momo and Mito for company.” Madara teased, covering his smile.
“Not you too! Why are you both being mean to me!” Hashirama whined, slumping over.
“You make it so easy, anija.” Tobirama shook his head. “You react so strongly, it’s hard not to push your buttons.” He said, chuckling as he patted Hashirama’s back.
“Tis the duty of a younger brother, at least that’s what Izuna and Kuro tell me all the time.” Madara said, shaking his head. “They enjoy pushing my buttons too.” He said, chuckling.
“Is that why Kuro says you toss him in the pond?” Hashirama asked.
“Yes and I do in fact toss him in the pond when he irritates me too much. It builds character and teaches them respect.” Madara said, nodding solemnly.
“Wait, you really toss people into the pond?” Hashirama asked, shocked. “I thought Kuro was joking!”
“Why would he joke about that? I told you I tossed an elder into the pond for being rude.” Madara said with a shrug. “If someone pisses me off they’re getting tossed in the pond. That’s how it works.”