Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hashirama couldn’t remain clan head after he was elected Hokage. It was too much of a conflict of interest. And the obvious next choice, was Tobirama.

Except that Tobirama was an omega. Granted, a lot of people had forgotten that he was. Especially since his father had put him on suppressants the moment he presented. He hadn’t even had a heat.

Senju clan law forbid omegas from serving as clan head. The gray area was whether that applied to an omega who couldn’t emit pheromones, had no scent, couldn’t go into heat, and had no instincts. An omega that wasn’t an omega.

Tobirama argued that he was ineligible to serve as clan head, because he was still an omega. Even if he wasn’t a functional one. Hashirama argued that Tobirama had already been serving as clan heir as an omega, which was also against clan law, so why would clan law matter now if it hadn’t mattered before. The clan elders agreed. Tobirama may technically be an omega, but he wasn’t truly one. Therefore, he was eligible to serve as clan head, and was elected.

Tobirama had expected his life to change when he stopped taking his suppressants, but he hadn’t expected to become Senju clan head. He might have been dreaming about a certain alpha taking notice of him. A prime alpha.

But instead, Madara had not taken notice of him. And now they were equal in status, and everyone still thought that Tobirama was a beta.

The day after his promotion, he was in his office working though paperwork when Madara entered. Their offices were next to each other, and it was this proximity that made Tobirama notice the alpha.

Madara might throw a lot of temper tantrums. Yell at people. Scream and stomp. But he was also kind and thoughtful. He liked to know that Izuna was well fed and warm, and as he and Tobirama had grown closer, Madara had done the same to him.

Most days Tobirama would eat a bento prepared by Madara for lunch. The other man claimed that it was because Tobirama always forgot to eat. But Tobirama guessed that it was because no one else complimented Madara’s cooking like he did.

Their friendship had been quick. Once Madara realized that Tobirama just wanted the village to succeed. Wanted everyone safe and well taken care of and had quite the gift for administration and bureaucracy.

They became truly close after a long day of work early in the creation of the village. Tobirama’s vision had started swimming as he read reports and policies, and Madara had appeared to fare no better. That was when the man said they were going to get drunk. And they did. It had been so much fun to spend time with Madara in such a way. And then at the end of the night Madara had made sure he arrived safely back at Hashirama’s home.

It was after that evening that Tobirama really started to notice Madara as an alpha. How nice he would be as a mate. And then a few weeks later Tobirama had made the tough decision to stop taking his suppressants. Wondering what Madara would smell like… and what he would think of him.

But nothing changed. No scent. No heat. No smell. He had taken suppressants for too long.

Madara let himself into Tobirama’s office, shaking Tobirama out of his memories. His hair swayed as he walked, and his face was a grin. “I heard about your new job Tobirama. Welcome to the clan head’s club.” He dropped the bento box on Tobirama’s desk and took his seat by the desk. “We can go drink tonight to celebrate.”

Tobirama sighed. “I’m afraid I have too much to do. I couldn’t go out for drinks before, I doubt I can now.”

“That’s too bad. We could go spar if you wanted?”

Tobirama shook his head. “I have clan duties on top of my usual work load. But I’m sure anija could go to the bars with you.”

Madara laughed. “And piss off his wife? I’ve seen what she does to Izuna when she’s annoyed. I’d rather not suffer the same fate.” He looked up and considered Tobirama. “I remember your clan elders were the ones who ordered Hashirama to take a mate, do you think they’ll do the same thing to you?”

Tobirama laughed bitterly. “No. As a beta, there’s no pressing need for me to take a mate. I’m afraid that Hashirama’s pups are going to end up being clan head, even if they have to take over from me.”

Madara’s smile returned. “That’s my plan too. Izuna’s kids can take over once I retire.”

“You don’t want an omega?” Tobirama asked curiously. Knowing that the answer would only hurt him.

“Nope.” Madara popped the p. “I haven’t been found an omega I’m interested in. And I doubt that will change. So it’s the single life for me.”

Tobirama’s heart clenched. So even if Madara knew he was an omega… He wouldn’t be wanted.

He continued making halfhearted conversation with Madara until the alpha left.

A few nights later his friends did manage to take him out for a party. It was a nice evening with Hashirama, Mito, Touka, Izuna and Madara. Madara sat right next to him and Tobirama pretended for just a second that he and the alpha were something… more.

That evening he followed Hashirama and Mito to the clan head’s house. Once inside Mito headed to the room she shared with Hashirama, and the two brothers sat down in the living room.

“Congratulations Tobi.” Hashirama murmured as he poured tea for them. “Father must be rolling over in his grave.”

Tobirama sighed as he cupped his hands around the warm mug. “I never wanted this. You were supposed to be father’s heir. Not me.”

“I’m sure you’ll do wonderfully. And I’ll be there whenever you need help.”

Tobirama smiled. “At least you’ll be here for any mokuton emergencies.”

Hashirama scratched the back of his head. “Uh speaking of that… You see… Mito and I are going to be moving out of the clan head’s home and into the Hokage residence. They’ve just finished construction on it.”

Tobirama nearly dropped his tea. “Seriously? You’re leaving?”

Hashirama nodded. “I don’t want to. But it’s the right thing to do. If it’s a conflict of interest for me to be clan head and Hokage, then its surely a conflict for me to live in the clan head’s home. I’m supposed to be everyone’s leader, not just the Senju.”

“But we’ve always lived together.” Tobirama whispered.

“I know Tobi. I don’t want to leave you either. You’re my baby brother.”

It was customary for a single omega to live with an alpha sibling. And seeing as no alpha would ever want Tobirama, he would be single for life. But he wouldn’t get to live with Hashirama and Mito.

He wouldn’t get to stay with his pack. Which hurt more than he would have ever expected. Sure Hashirama was probably the most annoying roommate on earth, but was still Tobirama’s pack. His last brother.

Tobirama had looked forward to being in the same house as Hashirama’s cubs. But now he would have to watch them grow from afar.

He would be alone in the Senju clan head’s household. He hadn’t ever lived alone.

The next morning he watched as Hashirama’s wood clones packed up their stuff and took it to the Hokage residence.

And then he was well and truly alone in the clan head’s home. A home created for an alpha and his family, which was now occupied by one lonely omega.

He threw himself into his work. His lab work, his paperwork for the village, and his new role as clan head. Life continued like this for a few weeks, until things changed again.

“The Daimyo wants you to join him at the capitol for a month.” Tobirama told his brother.

Hashirama grimaced. “Really?”

“Yes.” Tobirama crossed his arms and looked between Hashirama and Madara. Both alphas looking rather uncomfortable.

“Tobiiii, don’t make me go. The capitol is no fun.” Hashirama whined. “Can’t you go instead?”

Tobirama shook his head. “Negative. He demands the Hokage, and no one but you will suffice. He also demands the village co-founder, Madara Uchiha to join you.”

Madara’s face contorted in anger. “There is NO legitimate reason for me to go! Surely Hashirama is enough!”

“Unfortunately not. Do I need to remind you two how important it is that we have the Daimyo’s support? Without him we won’t be able to continue our village.”

Madara huffed and stomped his feet as he made his way through the office. “I don’t see why I have to go though! You and Hashirama are the ones that are good at diplomacy! All I do is piss people off.”

“Actually, I will not be going with you. It’ll be you and Anija on this trip.”

Madara started to rage at that, and Hashirama whined even louder.

“Why do you get to stay? While I have to go with Hashirama! It’s not fair!” Madara shouted.

Tobirama shot water at him. It was only to shut him up, and not because Tobirama wanted to see him with a wet shirt. He wasn’t a pervert.

Eventually both Hashirama and Madara set off to gather their things for the trip to the capitol. Even though neither wanted to go.

The next morning Tobirama watched them leave. Mito was leaving with them, because she couldn’t bear to be away from Hashirama for so long. And Madara was traveling alone. Even though he had wanted Izuna to travel with them so he wasn’t stuck with the lovebirds. But Izuna wasn’t going to leave the village to Tobirama.

So Tobirama was going to be stuck with Izuna for a month.

Tobirama’s workload increased dramatically, now that he was filling in for his brother along with his other duties. But it gave him something to do to keep his mind quiet. To stop thinking about the empty clan head’s house waiting for him at the end of the night. To stop thinking about the alpha who wouldn’t even want him even if he were a regular omega.

A week into his tenure as clan head/temporary Hokage, he was attending the weekly Senju clan elder’s meeting when his life changed.

After someone had presented an update on their mission a woman stepped forward, holding a baby. “Tobirama-sama, someone left this baby in front of my home.”

Tobirama blinked. “Someone left their baby?”

“Yes sir. I believe it is somebody who couldn’t care for their child anymore, so they left her with us. As you know, there is a persistent rumor that our clan collects unwanted children.”

Tobirama nodded. A myth many believed about the Senju clan. Which caused many to leave their children with the Senju. Because of this myth, the clan had come up with a system in which the children were assimilated into certain families and sent out on any missions appropriate for the clan. Death came easy to these children, but they did have a roof over their head for a short time.

“Can you tell where she originated?” The woman asked.

Tobirama felt the child’s chakra. “She is from very far away. North of Fire Country. I believe her parents traveled specifically here to leave her, likely believing the myth about our clan and foundlings. We can give her to one of the clan families.” Tobirama stated easily.

“I am sorry sir, but none of the families in the Senju clan want to take in a foundling. They’ve all said now that we are at peace, they want to have children of their own and don’t want to raise a baby that has been left with us.”

Tobirama frowned. “None will take her in?”

“No sir. And until an orphanage is established, we would have to ask one of the other clans to take her in. The Inuzuka and Hatake have declined. But we have not asked the Uchiha.”

Tobirama stroked his chin. Thinking of some of the things Madara had told him. “The most important thing for Uchiha parents is whether their child will develop the sharingan. Marriages are planned with the highest likelihood that children with the sharingan will be born. They would not accept a child who can’t.”

“Then we have no option but to leave the child to the elements.” The woman said. She began walking toward the door until Tobirama stopped her. She stopped and turned to face him.

Tobirama looked down at the baby. She was healthy. He could sense her chakra, it was strong and tinged with lightning. She would grow to be powerful. If she had the chance. He thought of his empty clan house. And made a decision.

“I will raise her.” He declared and held his arms out for the babe. “She will be taken care of with me. Raised as a Senju.”

Everyone gasped. The woman holding the baby had her jaw nearly on the floor. “You would raise this child? Tobirama-sama?”

“Yes.” He answered and took the baby from her. “I shall raise her as my own cub. I expect that the clan shall treat her accordingly.”

Everyone nodded as Tobirama cradled the baby in his arms. She reminded him of his baby brothers. He looked up at those gathered at the meeting. “I believe this concludes our meeting. I must take my cub home.”

He didn’t wait as he left the meeting. The baby remained asleep as he walked to the clan head’s home. His home.

Once home he set her down and looked around his home. He wasn’t really set up for a new baby. But it was better for her to be here than left to the elements.

Tobirama had created a formula for babies which would replace breast milk. It had come in handy for when children lost their mothers, and it would be invaluable now that he had a babe of his own.

He had just finished a bottle for her when the baby woke up. Soft cries echoed from his living room. When he walked in he saw arms flailing out of the blankets swaddling her.

“Hello little one.” He greeted as he knelt to where she was laying, in a chair. Her dark eyes considered him, and her cries quieted. She was lovely. Dark hair and dark eyes.

She gratefully accepted the bottle and drank the formula. And after he burped her, they sat together as he worked through his paperwork. She drifted off to sleep easy enough, and he settled her in a makeshift crib one of his shadow clones crafted while he had been holding her. That night he sat by her side and watched her sleep. His new cub.

She woke up several times throughout the night and cried. Each time he woke up and tended to her. She considered him with wide eyes, as he likely looked very different from her parents. Especially considering her dark coloring. He must appear strange to her.

The next morning, he woke and fed the baby then readied himself for work at the administration building. He didn’t have anywhere to put the baby while he worked, so he would have to bring her to work with him. One of his clanmates had left a package on his door step containing clothes for the baby, along with cloth diapers. He also received word that some of the clan would set up a nursery in his home for the babe.

He felt the ghost of a smile grace his face as he read the note. The clan had taken him seriously when he said he wanted his cub treated as one of them.

A hush settled over the administration building as he entered with the baby in his arms. Everyone seemed to stop and stare at him as he made his way to his office. Nobody had anything to say as he walked past and the baby gurgled as she looked around.

He set her up in his office so that she could keep an eye on anyone who entered, and he got to work.

Some time later, it was time for Hikaku to deliver his report. Several members of the Uchiha clan were responsible for border control around the village.

Tobirama had first wanted to task the clan with policing the village, but after Madara pointed out that that would sow discontent towards the clan, border patrol was chosen as their domain. Although many Uchiha worked outside of border patrol. Prior to the village creation, the Uchiha had the most robust defenses around their compound. It was a necessity to protect their dojutsu. Now they protected the whole village. And Hikaku Uchiha oversaw the entire border patrol. Once every day he provided a report to the Hokage. But in Hashirama’s absence, the man reported to Tobirama.

Hikaku stepped into his office and stared blatantly at Tobirama’s young charge. “Who is this?” He asked with wide eyes.

“This is my new cub.” Tobirama answered. “She will not be a distraction to my work. Please deliver your report.”

Hikaku straightened up. “Yes Sir.” He then delivered the report of the last 24 hours of activity. Which thankfully, had no issues to note.

Before Hikaku left he looked back at the baby. “If I may sir, what is your cub’s name? If she is your cub she will likely be in danger and must be protected.”

Tobirama was shocked to hear something so reassuring from an Uchiha. “She does not have a name yet. But I thank you for your concern over her wellbeing.”

Hikaku continued to look concerned. “You are the first village founder to have a cub. It is my duty to protect her as I would anyone else in our village.”

Tobirama nodded his thanks and Hikaku left. Once they were alone he returned his gaze to the baby. “I suppose you do need a name little one.” He murmured.

The baby reached for him and he let her yank his finger.

Later that day Izuna burst into his office and stared at the baby just as Hikaku had. “Holy shit Hikaku was right.” He muttered as he stared.

“Please use appropriate language in front of my cub.” Tobirama glared.

Izuna shook his head. “Why do you have a baby?”

“I adopted her. I expect you will treat her accordingly.”

Izuna turned back to look at the baby. “What is her name? And where did you get her? She almost looks like an Uchiha. Don’t tell me you stole one of our babies?” The last question was a joke thankfully.

“I have not come up with a name. And she is not Uchiha. Her chakra is nothing like yours. She is from far away. But this is her home now.” Tobirama answered as he picked her up and rocked her gently.

“I never thought I would see you holding a baby like this. Peace is so weird!!” Izuna exclaimed as he left the office.

~~

A few days passed and Tobirama and the babe settled into a routine. His productivity decreased slightly, but he found a joy in spending time with her. She was curious and expressive. And trusting.

He was holding her in his garden one evening when he decided on her name. “Ikoma.” He murmured gently as he rocked her from side to side.

She cooed, unable to tell that her father had finally given her a name. But that was to be expected. She couldn’t talk yet, but once she could, she would know her name. Ikoma Senju.

That evening as he settled her in the crib her fingers refused to let go of his shirt. He frowned. But didn’t see the harm in letting her have it.

Once she had his shirt she curled her face into it and sniffed happily. As if the smell was soothing her.

But that couldn’t be right… Could it?

He raised his arm and sniffed his wrist. He smelled… Something sweet and refreshing. A scent he had not smelled in twelve years. Since he had presented.

Could he be… Scenting? He sniffed again and was met a second time with his own scent. He had nearly forgotten what he had smelled like. Before the suppressants.

Ikoma snuggled further into the shirt and he could sense that she was settled in a way that she hadn’t been before. She was soothed by his scent.

He laughed quietly as he left the nursery and headed to his own bed.

The next day there was a surprising lack of reaction to his new scent. He got a few looks but no one said anything.

Ikoma settled into her play pen set up in his office and cooed as he got to work reviewing reports.

Hikaku arrived for his morning report and diplomatically didn’t say anything about the new scent. As before, there was nothing of note in the border patrol reports.

The first person to say anything was Izuna.

“Why do you smell like that?” Izuna asked as he walked into the office.

“Always astute.” Tobirama noted. “I am an omega. But I’ve been on suppressants for years. Now that we have achieved peace and stability, I wanted to live as my true self. I apologize for the deception.”

Izuna narrowed his eyes. “It’s understandable. But you didn’t need to worry about the Uchiha treating you subpar for your status. We treat omegas as equals. Unlike your clan. Or so I thought.” He considered. “I never thought your clan would allow an omega to be clan head.”

“I will likely be removed from the position now that I am living publicly as an omega. And frankly, it would be nice to give the position back.” Tobirama admitted.

“I never understood why your clan was so against omegas!” Izuna yelled.

“Quiet yourself around my cub.” Tobirama glared as he picked up the fussy babe. “And the Senju clan has nothing against omegas. It is simply clan law that an omega cannot serve as clan head. Other than that, there are no other laws restraining us.”

“I still don’t like it.” Izuna huffed as he stormed out.

Tobirama shook his head as he allowed his scent to soothe Ikoma. She stopped crying and gave a few gasping breathes as she quieted. Her big dark eyes sparkled as she watched him. And he smiled as he set her down in her play pen.

Later in the afternoon Tobirama had committee meetings. The first was the safety committee. It met weekly to discuss safety of the village. It was comprised of members of the Uchiha clan, Senju clan and Hatake clan.

As he sat down at the meeting he noticed all eyes were on him. He raised an eyebrow. “What is it?”

“Your scent has… changed Tobirama-san.” Hiro Hatake mentioned.

Tobirama looked around the committee and noticed everyone else appeared curious as well. Except for Izuna, who was ridiculously pleased to be in the loop on Tobirama’s status.

“As many of you can tell, I am an omega. I have been suppressing my nature for many years. But now that we are at peace I have chosen to live as my true self. I apologize for the deception.” Tobirama said diplomatically.

“There is no need for apologies. I am glad that you feel safe enough to live authentically.” Sonoda Hatake replied. “It is good that our village has an omega clan head. It should attract others.”

Tobirama chuckled. Thinking of how fast the clan would replace him now that he scented like an omega.

After the meeting Tobirama returned to Ikoma, who he had left in the care of his shadow clone. She babbled nonsense as he picked her up and checked to see if she was well.

The rest of the month without Hashirama and Madara passed easily. He and Ikoma settled into a routine where he sacrificed some of his productivity, but in return he got to see her laugh and react to his scent. She was lovely. A perfect cub.

Hashirama returned right on schedule. Along with the rest of his entourage. The administration building lit up with excitement to have the Hokage back, and Tobirama breathed a sigh of relief knowing that his workload would reduce.

He let Hashirama settle into his office before going to visit.

After a few hours he summoned a shadow clone to stay with Ikoma and left to see his anija.

Hashirama was sitting at his desk and looked to be on the verge of tears at all the paperwork piled on his desk. But he straightened up and grinned brightly when Tobirama entered.

“Otouto!” He called. “I missed you!”

Tobirama grinned back. “Welcome back Anija. How did your visit to the capitol go?”

“It was so boring Tobi! So many formalities, such tight clothing, and everyone was scared of me and Madara! We didn’t do anything—” He stopped suddenly and sniffed the air. “Otouto?” He stood up from his desk and stepped toward Tobirama. “Your scent. Is it back?”

Tobirama nodded nervously. “I stopped taking my suppressants.”

“Oh Tobi! That’s wonderful!” Hashirama swept him in his arms and squeezed. “I’m so happy for you. It’s so wonderful to be able to scent you!”

“Anija, there’s something I should tell you—” Tobirama began.

Hashirama pulled back and looked down at him with wide brown eyes. “What is it? Has someone made an advance on you? Does Anija need to kill someone?”

“No, nothing like that! You see while you were gone… I took in a foundling. As my own cub.”

Hashirama’s eyes got even wider. “A cub? You have a cub?” Wonder filled his face. “Where is the cub? I must meet them!”

“You can follow me—”

The door pushed open before Tobirama could finish his statement and Madara stormed in. “Can you believe this? I leave for a month and the clan gets to take out a band of robbers! Without me! This is unacceptable!”

He stopped his raging and smelled the air. Similar to Hashirama when he first scented Tobirama after twelve years. “What is that scent?” Madara asked. “I’ve never smelled anything like it! Is there a new omega working here?”

“That’s Tobi!” Hashirama answered with a laugh. “Doesn’t he smell nice?”

“It’s Tobirama?” Madara asked incredulously as he stepped closer. “But you’re a beta?”

“I took suppressants to hide my status as omega. But now that the war is over, I’ve decided to live as an omega.” Tobirama said awkwardly.

Madara looked like he had seen a ghost. “Why did you lie?! You could have told us you were an omega!”

“Growing up in our clan wasn’t always the nicest thing for an omega. Tobi didn’t have an option.” Hashirama said. “Oh Madara! Tobi was just going to take me to meet his cub! Why don’t you come with us?”

“A cub? Have you had a secret cub this whole time and not told me! I thought we were friends!!” Madara screamed.

Tobirama cringed and rubbed at his arms. “Anija? Why don’t you come with me to meet her? Madara seems too upset at the moment.”

Madara still looked incredulous and angry and he gasped. “Upset?! Of course I’m upset! You told me you were a beta! And now you have a secret cub! Do you have a secret alpha I don’t know about too?”

“Of course not. I’m sorry about lying but I didn’t have any options. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m going to take my Anija to meet my cub. You can cool off.” Tobirama glared as he dragged Hashirama out of the office.

Seriously. Why the hell was Madara so upset about him being an omega? He thought that the Uchihas didn’t have the same prejudices against his kind as other clans. It hurt to see his friend change his opinion so strongly of him.

He let Hashirama into his office where a clone was watching over Ikoma. The clone dispersed itself once it saw them, and Ikoma gurgled at the loss of her guardian. “Hello Ikoma.” Tobirama sung as he led his star struck older brother to the baby.

Hashirama’s face shook as he heard the baby’s sounds. He stepped cautiously over to the playpen and looked down at the cub. Ikoma waved her hands up at him and babbled baby noises.

“Oh my. Tobi she’s so cute.” Hashirama’s voice was already tight with tears. “Hello little one.” He breathed as he reached out to her.

Ikoma reached her little hands out to Hashirama, cooing as she did so. “Can I hold her?” Hashirama asked.

“Yes, but you must be gentle. She’s still small.” Tobirama nagged.

Hashirama nodded and picked her up. She looked even smaller in his arms than normal. So small and dark next to Hashirama’s tanned skin. “Uncle is here.” Hashirama whispered as he rocked Ikoma back and forth.

Tobirama felt his heart settle now that Ikoma had been formally accepted by his pack alpha. His big brother. Ikoma reached up and yanked Hashirama’s hair, making the man laugh.

“Oh Tobi, you have to bring her over for dinner tonight. Mito will want to meet her. She’s perfect.” Hashirama said once he had passed Ikoma back to him.

“I will.” Tobirama promised. Hashirama left after he had ran his fingers through Ikoma’s hair one last time.

Tobirama looked out the window as he held Ikoma. She kept looking around for Hashirama, no doubt wondering where the fun one went. She refused to fall back asleep because she had finally met someone new. Someone brave enough to ask to hold his cub.

Tobirama was lost in thought that he didn’t notice the simmering chakra in his doorway. He turned and met Madara’s sharingan red eyes.

“Madara.” He gasped. Pulling his cub closer. “What is it?”

“I want to apologize for my behavior earlier. I know it was wrong for me to yell at you.” The alpha shifted. “I was embarrassed because I thought you had been lying to me this whole time. Laughing at me because I didn’t know your secret. But Izuna told me I’m being an idiot, so I’m sorry.”

He stepped further into the room. Eyes still spinning. “You adopted her while we were gone?” He phrased it as a question, even though Izuna had likely told him the truth.

“Yes.” Tobirama answered. “The Senju clan was going to leave her to the elements if no one took her in. So I did. She’s my cub.”

Madara stepped even closer. “What’s her name?”

“Ikoma.”

“A lovely name for a lovely cub.” Madara smiled. His sharingan shifted back into its natural black color. “Can I hold her?”

Tobirama stared. “You want to hold her?”

“Yes. But only if you want me to. I’ll respect if you want her to stay with you.” His voice was calm and soothing. And now that he wasn’t so angry at Tobirama, his scent was calm. This was the first time Tobirama had scented him, and he smelled wonderful. Smoky and earthy and a bit sweet. A perfect alpha.

“You can hold her.” Tobirama breathed and held his cub out to Madara.

Madara smiled and accepted the small bundle. And perfectly replicated the way Tobirama had been holding her. Tobirama breathed a sigh of relief. Madara had only activated the sharingan so he could hold Ikoma the same way Tobirama had.

Tobirama’s instincts preened as he watched Madara hold his cub. He liked seeing his preferred alpha holding her so gentle. “Hello Ikoma.” Madara whispered as he cradled the baby. Ikoma babbled nonsense at Madara and then giggled loudly as the alpha tried to decipher what she was saying. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“I’m sorry you thought I was lying to you.” Tobirama murmured as Madara swayed. “It didn’t feel good to keep my status a secret. But I had lived so long as a beta, I wasn’t sure how to go about living as an omega.”

Madara’s dark eyes considered him. “I don’t fully understand. But I’m glad to know the truth. And I won’t let anyone treat you differently just because you’re an omega.” He promised.

Tobirama shivered at the promise. It was nice to have a prime alpha holding his cub and promising to somewhat protect him. It wasn’t like Madara wanted him as anything but a friend, but it was nice to have a good friend.

That evening once he had finished his work he gathered Ikoma to head over to Hashirama’s home, but instead of it being the two of them he had an extra Uchiha shadow. “Is there something you need Madara?” He asked as he set Ikoma in the sling on his chest.

“I thought I could join you and Hashirama for dinner. He did say I’m always welcome.” Madara said petulantly.

“That’s true. I just thought you would be tired of seeing Anija. You did spend a month together.” Tobirama asked as the two of them left the administration building.

“That’s true. But I haven’t seen you in a month.” Madara pointed out.

“Well who am I to stop you. If you want to see my brother again so be it.”

Later that week he attended the first Senju clan meeting since he had adopted Ikoma.

“Greetings all.” He began the meeting. “As many of you are aware, I have begun to scent like an omega. We had previously assumed this was impossible due to the amount of time I took suppressants. Now that the situation has changed, I believe it is necessary for our clan to find a new clan head as per Senju law. At our next meeting I expect than an alpha or beta will be selected as my replacement.”

He felt a thrill go down his spine at the idea that he could move back in with Hashirama. With his pack.

One of the elders spoke up. “I am afraid that is impossible, Tobirama-sama. We already conducted a search for a replacement for you. And no one wanted to step up. You’ve already commanded all of our alphas on the battlefield, so they have no issue with you remaining as clan head.”

Tobirama frowned. “But I am an omega. It is against clan law for me to serve as clan head.”

“This is not the same era as your father. Many things have changed. And we have decided that we will no longer adhere to that law.” The same elder spoke. “So you will remain as clan head.”

Tobirama looked furiously at the rest of the clan and everyone had faces of approval. Traitors. Touka even shot him a thumbs up.

The rest of the meeting was routine clan matters that was his new permanent responsibility.

He was still irritated the next morning when he arrived at his office with Ikoma in tow. Just because they couldn’t find another person to be clan head, they had rewritten the laws just so he could do the job.

His distress must have been in the air because Madara snarled when he walked in. “Who pissed you off?” He growled.

“The Senju clan.” Tobirama felt himself pouting. “They said I have to stay on as clan head. Can’t they see I’m busy?”

Madara laughed. “Really? They’re letting you keep the gig?”

Tobirama knew he was pouting as he took his seat. An unfortunate habit, and exacerbated now that he had his omega instincts.

Madara stopped laughing and put his hands on his hips. “You’re the first omega to serve as Senju clan head… And you’re not happy?”

“I never wanted to be clan head. It was always going to be Anija’s job, and after he became Hokage the position honestly should have gone to Touka. But she turned them down. And everyone else who was eligible also turned them down. So they’re stuck with me.”

Madara nodded. “I was never supposed to be clan head either. After my older brothers died, I had to take on the role. At least you still have Hashirama.”

Tobirama cringed. Here he had been complaining… And in doing so he had offended the one alpha he actually liked. “I’m sorry Madara. I just need to cool down. Some paperwork should get me back to normal.”

Madara didn’t appear too offended and instead was wiggling his fingers at Ikoma. “This little one probably doesn’t help you focus on your work.”

“I don’t have anyone who can watch her. Everyone in my pack has their own duties to take care of.” He rubbed his forehead.

“I can see if someone in my clan can watch her for you. I’m sure having a few hours to focus a couple times a week would lessen the burden.” Madara offered.

Tobirama felt a thrill in his heart. Madara wanted to help him… “Are you sure members of your clan would watch after a Senju baby?”

“Oh of course. I’ll make sure that they do. Nothing will happen to this little one.” Madara said sweetly, and his words were directed at the baby and not Tobirama. “I’ll ensure that she is safe.”

“I want to meet with whoever would be watching her though.”

Two days later, and Ikoma had a babysitter three days a week for a few hours. A young beta woman who was studying to be a teacher at the Ninja Academy, but in the meantime was watching children. Even though Ikoma was a Senju cub, the woman adored her. Tobirama could sense it in her chakra.

Madara was right. Now that Tobirama had a few hours every week without having to tend to Ikoma, his productivity increased to its original level. Only he was even more productive because he had a cub of his own and wanted to do his best to make the village a nice place for her to grow up.

His evenings were spent either eating dinner at Hashiramas home, or eating at his own. But something curious was that most nights Madara followed them home and cooked them dinner. He had gotten mad when he found out about Tobirama’s bad habit of eating only ration bars for dinner.

Ikoma certainly enjoyed having Madara around. She giggled when she saw his wild hair. And shrieked in joy when he flailed around Tobirama’s house.

Things continued in this way for a couple weeks. Life was peaceful, and it was nice to have this much of Madara’s attention. His inner omega was continuously preening. Such a prime alpha wanted to spend this much time with him and his cub.

One morning he woke to a fever and pounding in his head. Unfortunately, founders weren’t able to afford sick days, so he gathered Ikoma and headed into his office even though he just wanted to curl up in his nest.

Once in his office, Ikoma took her usual spot in the play pen. But every time he tried to go to his desk she began to cry and reach out to him. Which was odd. She wasn’t a clingy cub, so it was odd that she didn’t want to be parted from him.

It was midmorning and he set his head down on his desk. His headache had gotten better, but he was still fevered. He felt hot and sluggish, and he just wanted his nest. He figured he might be able to wheedle Hashirama for the afternoon off, but it felt wrong leaving when he was still desperately needed.

Madara stepped into the room a few minutes later. His face contorted in shock when he sniffed the air. “Tobirama!” He yelled when he spotted him.

Tobirama lifted his head. “Is something wrong Madara? Do you need me?”

Madara hurried over. “Tobirama. You smell—You smell like you’re going into heat.” He breathed.

Tobirama sat up straight. “Heat?”

Madara nodded. “You shouldn’t be here. You should be at home.”

“But—” Tobirama began to protest until he breathed in Madara’s scent. His eyes shot wide. “You smell nice.” He whispered.

“Oh god.” Madara slapped his forehead. “Tobirama, I only smell good to you because I’m an alpha. You don’t actually want me.”

Tobirama blinked and tried to clear the fog in his brain. Distantly he remembered, Madara didn’t like omegas. Surely he would be very uncomfortable with one coming on to him… Tobirama’s mother didn’t raise a pervert, so he was going to have to get himself under control.

But he could tell that he was soon going to be incoherent. So he got up from his desk and staggered over to Ikoma. “Madara, I’m going to… Take her home and wait this out.”

But Madara grabbed his arm and it sent a jolt up Tobirama’s spine. “You can’t take care of a cub while you’re in heat!” Madara cried, clearly scandalized.

Tobirama blinked at him again and knew his eyes must be wide and glazed over. “But, I have to. I can’t just leave her.”

Madara stepped closer and held onto his hand. “I’ll watch her while you’re indisposed. That way you don’t have to worry about her. Just take care of yourself.”

Tobirama gasped. “You would watch my cub?” He whispered quietly.

“Yes. I’ll protect her for you. Keep her safe.”

Tobirama’s instincts had him shivering in pleasure. Madara promising to protect his cub was… very nice.

He looked down at Ikoma who was reaching out to him. She was crying and clearly wanted her Daddy. She must like his smell since it was stronger with his heat.

But Madara picked her up instead. “I promise Tobirama. I’ll protect her. Now, do you have guards in the Senju compound?”

“Guards?” Tobirama asked curiously.

“To protect you. In case some alphas try to surprise you. You won’t be able to defend yourself.” Madara warned.

“I’ll have to.” Tobirama frowned.

“I’ll send the omega division to protect you.” Madara promised.

“Omega division?”

“Uchiha omegas. Their job is to protect omegas in heat. They’ll make sure no one gets in to your house while you’re in heat. No one will touch you.” Madara placed his hand on Tobirama’s shoulder. “Now fly home. The omega division will arrive soon. And Ikoma will be with me.”

Tobirama stood there like an idiot smelling Madara and looking at the way he was holding Ikoma. Then he shook his head and pulled on the hiraishin marker in his room, arriving a moment later. Once alone in his house he all but collapsed into his nest.

He felt two chakra natures arrive at his doorstep, likely the omega guards. Now that he was safe he felt himself relaxing fully. As relaxed as one could be in heat.

He spent an uncomfortable three days writhing in his nest. His first heat. Ever.

On the third day he sat up and realized it was over. Thank goodness that heats only happened once a year, and in the meantime he would be able to prepare a drug that would ease his heat.

Once he had bathed he set out for the Uchiha district. Two omega Uchihas followed him, and he remembered Madara sending them to protect him. He felt a slight blush at the thoughtful nature of his friend.

Nobody dared stop him as he made his way into the Uchiha compound, and let himself into Madara’s home. He was an esteemed village founder. And his cub was in there.

Izuna answered the door, and the deep dark circles under his eyes told him that Ikoma had not been on her best behavior.

“Where is my cub?” Tobirama asked.

“This way.” Izuna muttered.

Voices were in one of the further rooms. Or more specifically, one voice was speaking and the other was squealing.

Madara was seated at a low table, holding Ikoma up in the air and she was exclaiming with joy and waving her arms.

“Fly Ikoma-hime! You’re flying just like your daddy!” Madara cheered the baby.

Tobirama stopped in the doorway and stared at the scene. It was positively domestic. But his cub had been decked out in Uchiha gear. She had an uchiwa hair clip on her head, her little shirt had the Uchiwa, and she clearly had Madara wrapped around her finger.

“Did Ikoma behave for you?” Tobirama asked as he stepped into the room.

Madara and Ikoma both turned to look at him. “You’ve returned! How do you feel?”

“I feel much better. I apologize for my inappropriate behavior before my heat. It will not happen again.” Tobirama promised. “Thank you for caring for my cub. In my absence.”

“Ikoma was a very good cub for me. Weren’t you?” Madara held Ikoma up in the air again and the baby squealed.

Tobirama hurried over and took her out of Madara’s hands. She scented strongly of Madara, and the man must have scented her several times during her stay. He liked it that she had Madara’s smell, was marked as being under Madara’s protection.

“I guess I should head home now.” Tobirama murmured. Now that he had walked the entire way to Madara’s home, he felt tired and shaky. He would normally use the hiraishin, but he didn’t want to risk it harming Ikoma.

Madara seemed to notice his dilemma. “How about I walk you home?” He offered.

Tobirama considered. “That is acceptable.”

Madara began gathering toys around the room and packing them into a bag. Once completed, he gestured for Tobirama to follow him.

“What is all that?” Tobirama asked as he pointed at the bag.

“Toys for Ikoma-hime. She really liked them during this stay.” There were enough toys in there for multiple children… What one little cub was going to do with them all was a mystery.

Madara must have seen the shaking in his arms. “I can carry Ikoma?” He offered.

“I can handle her.” Tobirama huffed.

Madara rolled his eyes and held an arm out. “You’re shaking like a leaf. I’ll carry her.”

Tobirama finally relented and let Madara take the cub. Together they walked side by side back towards the Senju compound. Tobirama felt his instincts preen as several of the Uchiha omegas watched him walking with Madara. Fresh off his heat, his scent was still sweet. And Madara carried his cub. There was jealousy in several chakra signatures.

Not that there was anything to be jealous of. Madara didn’t like omegas, and Tobirama was just a friend.

Once they arrived on Tobirama’s front porch Madara handed the cub over, but he set the bag of toys within. Before leaving, he ran his fingers through Ikoma’s hair, scenting her. Then he rubbed the side of his face against Tobirama’s, scenting him. His instincts twirled at the thought that Madara wanted others to know that he and Ikoma were under his protection.

Which was ridiculous. Tobirama was one of the strongest omegas in the village. He didn’t need protection.

But it was nice.

Madara left after he forced Tobirama to promise to eat and rest some more.

Tobirama had a lot of work the next day. A lot to catch up on. And pleasantly, Hashirama called a meeting to discuss a new clan wanting to enter the village. Tobirama was on the entrance committee, as was Madara. The rest of the committee consisted of Hashirama, Izuna, and members of the Inuzuka and Aburame clan.

The committee had been working over proposals from 2 of the trinity clans. The Yamanaka and Akimichi wanted to join the village. But the Nara were holdouts. It had been difficult to figure out what they wanted in the village, and they weren’t particularly forthcoming. But Hashirama must have made a breakthrough while Tobirama was on leave.

He took his seat at the meeting, next to Izuna who gave him an unimpressed look. He must still be worn out from watching Ikoma. The Inuzuka and Aburame members took their seats, and finally Madara and Hashirama arrived.

Once seated, Hashirama began. “Members, we have had a development in our plan for the trinity clans to join the village. I know we have all been frustrated with the lack of progress, but we finally have a sign that the Nara want in.”

“Get on with it!” Izuna whined.

Hashirama looked pointedly at Tobirama. “The Nara clan head wants to join our village, but only if Tobirama agrees to mate his younger brother.”

Chapter Text

“Do the Nara know that I have a cub?” Tobirama asked curiously.

“Of course! Do you think I would forget my niece? The Nara promised that he would raise your cub as his own. Isn’t it wonderful Tobi?” Hashirama honestly had stars in his eyes.

“This is preposterous!” Madara roared. “You want to give your brother away to the Nara? He’s not a THING that you give away just because someone wants him!”

Hashirama’s face colored in offense. “I wouldn’t do that! If Tobi doesn’t want to mate him, then he won’t. I just thought he might like that an alpha wanted him. This is the first time an alpha has approached me for his hand in marriage.” Hashirama looked at Tobirama proudly. “The Nara wants to be at your side, wants to be your partner. He said he would willingly marry into the clan.”

Tobirama sighed as he rubbed his temple. He looked around the table and noticed that everyone appeared different shades of uncomfortable and angry. “I apologize to the committee. This is the first and hopefully last time that our personal lives will entwine with village matters. Now, as for this mating proposal, I will accept if it is determined to be for the best interest of the village. The Nara would have to agree to treat me and my cub well, and I will not be stepping down as Senju clan head.” A few members gasped at his statement. “Under normal circumstances, I would have already been married off in order to help my clan. If I could marry to help my village then I will.”

“Absolutely not!” Madara roared again, and he almost jumped up from his spot at the table before he seemed to realize where he was currently. “You’re not marrying anyone for the good of the village! Especially not some lazy Nara! You’re the highest ranking omega in this village. Alphas from every clan want you! If Hashirama just hands you over to some Nara so they join the village, we’ll have a civil war!”

Tobirama blinked. But before he could respond, Haruhi Inuzuka spoke. “The Uchiha is right. I don’t know about civil war, but I do know the Inuzuka clan will not support anyone taking a mate for the benefit of the village. It is inhumane. Unacceptable. If this is what the Nara need to join, they need not join our village.”

“The Uchiha also would not accept a mating just for the village’s benefit.” Izuna added. “It is morally wrong. It goes against clan custom. Especially for you.”

Tobirama was about to ask what the last bit meant, but the Aburame surprisingly spoke up.

“I agree with the collective. There are many in the Aburame clan who would welcome the opportunity to court you, and would not accept the Nara forcing you into a mating bite.” His voice was the quiet tone associated with all Aburame.

Hashirama’s eyes were wide. “I had no idea that everyone felt so strongly about this issue. I apologize for any misunderstanding, Tobi would not have been forced to mate the Nara. Not if he didn’t want to. I wouldn’t do that.”

“But Tobirama must not feel pressured to mate the Nara.” Haruhi Inuzuka reminded him.

“I believe everyone has weighed in on my personal life.” Tobirama stated. “I will not marry the Nara. So Anija, you will have to tell the Nara that I will not accept any of them as a mate.”

That got Madara to calm down. And thankfully, the rest of the meeting passed uneventfully.

Afterwards, he returned to his office with an Uchiha shadow. He wondered what he should say to Madara once they were alone. He was curious about when Madara said him taking the Nara as a mate could cause a civil war… And bewildered as to why Madara was so upset about him taking a mate at all. Maybe Madara liked being the most significant alpha in his life and didn’t want another outranking him.

But before he could ask, once they were alone in Tobirama’s office Madara turned and glared at him. “Were you really going to let some lazy ass Nara mate you?!” He shouted.

Tobirama rolled his eyes and thanked his noise cancelling wards around the room. “If it would have benefited the village, then yes. And what the hell were you on about it causing a civil war?”

Madara huffed and stomped around the room. “I meant it exactly as I said it! You’re the highest ranking omega in our village. Not only are you the Senju clan head, but you’re the hokage’s brother. And stronger than most of the alphas here. If it got out that your brother forced you to mate someone, we’d have some problems!”

Tobirama raised an eyebrow. “Well it’s good that those problems are no longer going to present themselves. It is surprising though. I had not thought many alphas want an omega who outranks them.”

Madara looked at him like he was a moron. “You really mean that?” He blinked. “Tobirama! You’re a very desirable omega. I wasn’t kidding when I said that alphas from every clan would want you.”

Tobirama laughed. “Even from the Uchiha clan? I find that hard to believe. Izuna and Hikaku both act like theyre afraid of me, and I can’t imagine any of the lower alphas approaching me.”

Madara gave him another look like he was a moron.

But before continuing the conversation, Tobirama’s eyes dropped onto a bento on his desk. It wasn’t from Madara. The furoshiki was blue with two symbols on it. The Senju varja on the bottom, and the Uzumaki swirl on top of it. He sighed and rubbed his temples. “I’m afraid I have to get back to work Madara. I’ll need to leave early today. Mito wants to see me for dinner.”

Madara looked at the bento and at him like there was something wrong with him, but he left Tobirama alone anyway.

That evening he and Ikoma arrived at the Hokage household after a full days work. He looked down into her happy face before letting the two of them inside.

Touka was there as well, and he wondered if he had missed some kind of important event… As far as he knew he hadn’t forgotten somebody’s birthday.

“Otouto!” Hashirama called once he saw Tobirama. And then his face split into an even wider smile. “Ikoma-chan! Let your uncle hold you!” Tobirama let Hashirama take the cub. And Ikoma giggled as the big man cuddled her.

“Good evening otouto.” Mito greeted him with a kiss against his cheek. She was the only other omega in their pack, and it was nice to be with her especially after his heat. “Good evening nee-san.” He greeted back.

Touka ruffled his hair as she stepped around him and took her spot at the table. Tobirama held Ikoma while Hashirama formed a high chair for her out of the mokuton. Once she was comfortable he sat next to her and everyone else took their spot.

“Is there a reason you wanted to see me nee-san?” Tobirama asked. He wondered if they might be expecting a cub of their own.

“It came to our attention that while you were in heat, you left your cub with Madara Uchiha.” Mito answered. “As you can imagine, as members of your clan we found this distressing.”

Touka nodded. “It’s our job to look after each other’s cubs! But instead of leaving her with us, you left her with him! With the Uchiha clan!” She said the last bit with clenched teeth.

Tobirama looked at everyone’s faces, and saw that Mito was right. Hashirama also looked sad.

“I know that it living apart from one another has been difficult for all of us. But Tobirama, we are still your pack. We want you to know that we are very much here for you and for Ikoma.” Mito said gently.

Tobirama sighed. “I apologize to you all. When my heat started, I was taken aback. And Madara was there… And he offered to keep Ikoma safe while. I trusted him. Just like I would trust any of you.”

Touka didn’t look convinced. But Hashirama looked pensive. “Maybe that’s why Madara was so upset about the Nara’s proposal today! He didn’t like someone else being so close to Ikoma-chan, after he had been charged with watching her.”

“I think its more like he knows Tobi would never be happy with a lazy dull Nara.” Touka offered.

“Touka. Do not be crude.” Mito chided.

Tobirama wiped the rice Ikoma had smeared all over her face and reflected on Mito’s words. He guessed that he had forgotten momentarily that he was part of a pack. Their situation was so different compared to other packs, with him living away from his pack alpha.

His heart felt whole now that he had been reminded that he was still wanted by his pack. Still a valued member, as was his cub. His pack had wanted to protect Ikoma while he was in heat. And he had caused them distress by giving her to Madara.

But it had felt so right to let Madara keep her safe. His instincts told him Madara was safe. Madara was well suited to be his alpha. And it was only right that the man kept his cub safe for him.

Except Madara didn’t want him like that. Maybe it would be best if Tobirama had the pack watch Ikoma during his next heat. Having Madara do it had only strengthened Tobirama’s feelings and instincts toward the alpha.

The next day Madara brought him a bento for lunch, just like normal. And Tobirama preened at the fact that Madara had brought him food. Just like before when he thought that Tobirama was a beta. Madara appeared to be over whatever little fit he had had during the meeting with the village entrance committee.

Even better was that over the next few days the committee received word that the Nara would still like to negotiate joining the village, even if none of them got to mate Tobirama. The clan alpha had even sent an apology to Tobirama, and a new toy for Ikoma. He wrote that the Nara had never intended any offense at the offer of a mating.

It was truly unexpected. But he supposed that the clan probably didn’t want to have any bad blood between them and the Hokage/Senju clan.

After several rounds of negotiation, the Nara clan agreed to join the village. And if the Nara joined, then the Akimichi and Yamanaka followed. That meant that more strong clans had joined the village. The shinobi would have more varied skills, and more comrades to protect.

As was expected, Hashirama ordered a village wide festival to celebrate the three new clans. It was going to be the biggest event so far in their little village.

It had been a logistical and security nightmare to organize. Several late nights and early mornings. Madara had taken more than a few breaks to go to the training ground and blast some training dummies around. But it had finally been completed.

Tobirama dressed in his finer robes for the festival, and then dressed Ikoma. He figured he could walk around with her for a little bit but would return home soon. She wouldn’t like the loud noises and crowds at the festival. But as Senju clan head and a village founder, he needed to make an appearance.

Ikoma giggled as he walked her through the festival. She waved at the Senju clan members they passed and laughed when she saw people taking part in the festivities. Her joy was contagious, and Tobirama found himself grinning as they made their way around.

He was watching children chase each other around when someone approached him. One of the Nara. He turned and locked eyes with a short member of the Nara clan. An alpha according to his nose. “Hello.” Tobirama greeted.

“Good evening Tobirama-sama.” The alpha greeted. He bowed slightly and smiled. “Tatsu. Tatsu Nara.” He introduced himself.

“Good evening Tatsu-san.” Tobirama murmured. “I hope you are enjoying the festival.”

“I am. I’m also excited that our clan is joining the village.” He smiled warmly. “I’m glad I ran into you though. I wanted to apologize for my brother’s behavior.”

Tobirama’s eyes widened. “You’re the Nara that wanted to mate with me!”

Tatsu rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. “Yes… And I hope you can forgive us for that behavior. We’ve met a few times on the battlefield, and I always thought you were beautiful… My brother got overzealous when we found out you were an omega. But either way, I wanted to officially apologize to you. And hope we can start over.”

“That is acceptable.” Tobirama agreed. “Before we founded the village, it would have been customary for a political match to be struck up between us. But things are different now. I hope that the Nara will change just as the Senju have.”

Tatsu nodded. “Of course. We’re ready to join the village and stop living in a perpetual war. I’m very happy that you’re one of the village leaders.” Ikoma cooed and Tatsu looked down and grinned at the cub. “Oh this must be your cub. Hello little one.” He reached out to touch her and Tobirama’s instincts whirled. This alpha might be very kind, but Tobirama did not want him touching his cub.

Before Tatsu’s hand made contact with Ikoma, a gloved hand grabbed his wrist and made the short alpha yelp.

“Don’t you dare touch her, filth!” Madara growled at Tatsu.

Tatsu for his part shrieked when he saw Madara was the one who grabbed him. Eyes wide and flailing he fell once Madara let him go. “Mad-Madara-sama.” The man stuttered. “I’m sorry, I only wanted to say hello—”

“You can do it from a respectful distance! Hell, it’s like you were raised by wolves you heathen!” Madara shouted.

Tatsu held his hands up and made a very hasty retreat. Madara snarled as the man scurried away and then turned back to Tobirama. “That lousy Nara. I can’t believe he was going to touch Ikoma like that.” And then he held his hands out for Tobirama to hand the girl over.

Ikoma giggled and reached her hands out for Madara. She wanted him to hold her. Tobirama gently placed her in Madara’s arms. “No flailing while you’re holding my cub, Uchiha.” He reminded.

Madara rolled his eyes. “I wouldn’t hurt Ikoma.” He pouted. Once she was in his arms he rubbed his cheek against the top of her head. Leaving his scent there. “Do you want to light a lantern Ikoma?” Madara asked her, even though she clearly couldn’t answer.

Tobirama rolled his eyes. “We can go see the Uchiha light lanterns, but only if you keep her at a safe distance. I don’t want her near any of the flames!” Tobirama knew he must sound like a nagging mother but he couldn’t help it.

Madara rolled his eyes as they made their way through the festival towards where the Uchiha were lighting lanterns. They got some strange looks from members of the trinity clans. It must be odd to see the Uchiha clan head carrying the Senju clan head’s cub.

As he had promised, Madara kept Ikoma away from any open flames. The three of them watched several Uchiha lighting lanterns and setting them off to float through the air. Madara did summon some wind to help the lanterns float better, which Tobirama found acceptable. Wind was less likely to maim Ikoma. She clapped her hands together and shrieked at each lantern that passed by them.

Tobirama relaxed as he watched Ikoma and Madara’s happy faces. It was nice to watch Madara taking care of his cub. Making sure she was safe and happy. He supposed Madara was doing so out of a feeling of friendship. Plus Tobirama knew that Madara had a kind spot for children. The man tried to hide it, but he loved children of all ages. He preferred Uchiha children, but even the ones from other clans were just as precious.

Ikoma yanked Madara’s long hair, and the man just laughed and pulled his locks out of her little fist. “Such a strong one.” The man murmured to the cub. “You’ll be a strong shinobi no doubt. I’ll teach you the katon so you can light your own lanterns.” Madara continued murmuring similar nonsense to the child.

Tobirama could feel her strong lightning nature chakra, so the odds of her leaning the katon were very limited. But potentially she could use the raiton to light lanterns instead.

They spent some more time watching the lanterns before Ikoma started to yawn. Madara rocked her gently and the two of them returned to Tobirama’s house. “Ready for bed Ikoma-hime?” Madara asked once they had arrived on the doorstep. The cub yawned and snuggled into Madara’s chest.

Tobirama didn’t want to wake her, but she needed to get ready for bed. He gently took her out of Madara’s arms and bid the alpha a good night before heading inside.

His heart was full as he changed Ikoma and laid her down in the nursery. She snuggled down into her crib, which was overflowing with articles of Tobirama’s clothing. His scent soothed her, like he was her birth omega. It was a wonderful development to the adoption process. His instincts saw her as his own cub, and her instincts now reacted to his scent like he was the one who had given birth to her.

He could not accept a mate who wouldn’t also love her like their own cub. Tatsu Nara wouldn’t have been a horrible mate, but Madara HAD a point about the lazy Naras not being his type. He didn’t want an alpha who was that much weaker than him.

He wanted Madara. Strong, grumpy and good with kids. Plus someone who didn’t treat him differently upon learning of his omega status. It was too bad Madara didn’t want an omega, or a mate. Or cubs. Unfortunately Tobirama was an omega with a cub of his own, who would like Madara as a mate.

The next day was one of Ikoma’s daycare days. Tobirama dropped her off in one of the homes in the Uchiha compound, with the omega Madara had found to watch his cub. The woman smiled brightly at him and promised to look after Ikoma to the best of her abilities.

He wouldn’t see Madara in the office today, because it was one of the days the alpha dedicated to his clan duties. Tobirama tried not to focus on how he felt bereft without the man.

Hours passed and it was business as usual. Until there was a knocking at his door. “Enter.” He called.

Surprisingly, Hikaku Uchiha entered his office. This was strange because with Hashirama back in the village, he was the one Hikaku was supposed to deliver reports to, not Tobirama.

“What is it Hikaku?” Tobirama asked.

“I wanted to report a border matter which concerns you, Tobirama-san.” Hikaku answers.

“Protocol states that you report to the Hokage, not to me.” Tobirama said in confusion.

“Yes, and I will be delivering my report to Hokage-sama immediately after this.”

“Very well.” Tobirama said. “Please deliver the report.”

“An hour and a half ago a border patrol captured a criminal who was on a mission to kidnap someone within the leaf village.” Hikaku looked around the room. At everything but Tobirama’s eyes, which was odd. Usually it was everyone else who avoided the Uchiha eyes, not the other way around.

“Who was the target?” Tobirama asked.

“It was your cub. Ikoma Senju.” Hikaku answered at last. “The Uchiha squad apprehended him and took him into custody. Where we discovered that he had been paid to kidnap your cub in order to extort you.”

Tobirama felt his hackles rise. He snarled, showing his teeth and rose up from behind his desk. “I should pay this scum a visit and interrogate him. Figure out who sent him to steal my cub.”

“Ah. About that… The would be kidnapper has already been interrogated and is no longer alive.” Hikaku shared. “We discovered who had hired him though.”

“He’s already been interrogated?” Tobirama asked in shock. “And killed? That’s not how our protocol dictates we act.”

“It is against protocol. But not for founders of the village. And it was Madara-sama who interrogated him. Using sharginan based genjutsu, Madara-sama was able to discover who had paid the man to kidnap your cub. The would be kidnapper didn’t survive unfortunately.”

Tobirama gasped. “Well then, who sent the kidnapper? We should send a squad to catch them.”

Hikaku looked around uncomfortably again. “Madara-sama has already left to take care of the threat. They were only a small-scale black-market gang, but we will set an example of anyone who targets the child of a founder.”

Tobirama frowned. “Madara doesn’t like to fight weak opponents. Why would he go fight these goons? This doesn’t make any sense.”

Hikaku almost looked like he was rolling his eyes. “Madara-sama holds you and your cub in very… high regard. A threat to either of you is one he takes personally. Hence, he had left to personally see to the end of those who would harm your cub.”

It was legal for a founder to take Madara’s actions. The four of them were granted special status within the village. But it was difficult to understand why he would react so strongly to someone who had tried to hurt Ikoma. This was the first time Madara had gone off and done his own thing since the village founding.

Tobirama’s instincts demanded that he go to Ikoma immediately and make sure she was safe. But another side of him knew that he needed to stay here and clean up this mess Madara had caused by running off and taking care of things on his own.

“Thank you for the report, Hikaku.” Tobirama decided on saying instead. “I am grateful to you and your clan for keeping my cub safe. I will speak with Madara once he had returned.”

“Of course, Tobirama-san. We were only doing our duty.”

Tobirama watched Hikaku leave. Presumably to go give his report to Hashirama. He looked down at his desk and knew he wouldn’t be able to focus on his work after hearing someone had targeted his little girl. He left a note that he would be working from home for the rest of the day, and hurried to the Uchiha compound to check on Ikoma.

Surprisingly, he found Izuna outside of home where Ikoma stayed three days a week. “What are you doing here?”

“Nii-san told me to stay here and make sure your kid is safe.” Izuna mumbled miserably. “He was in such a state that I didn’t argue with him.”

Tobirama looked him up and down. How curious. He quickly stepped inside the house and found Ikoma perfectly safe. She was playing with some toys and very happy. She shrieked when she saw him and held her hands up.

He was helpless, and immediately across the room to pick her up.

“Is everything okay Tobirama-sama?” Ikoma’s babysitter asked.

“Yes of course. I just received some very disturbing news and needed to be sure she was safe. I’m going to take her home for the rest of the day.” Tobirama answered.

The woman nodded and Tobirama left. Izuna was still outside standing guard.

“I’m taking her home with me. You do not need to guard her any longer.” Izuna nodded and headed back to the clan head’s home. Probably to take care of all the things Madara had left behind to go after the black-market gang who had come to steal Ikoma.

Once he was home he settled down with Ikoma and held her. Feeling her heartbeat and reassuring himself that she was safe.

How could his father have been so reckless with his own sons? Tobirama felt like he would go mad if something had happened to his cub. Yet his own father had sent all of his own cubs into battle with no concern to their safety.

“I’ll never let anyone hurt you.” Tobirama promised his cub. Even though it was a promise he couldn’t possibly fulfill.

A few hours passed, and Tobirama took care of paperwork and got Ikoma down for a nap.

Just as the sun was setting, a knock sounded at the door. And when he answered it, Madara was on the other side of the door. He smelled clean, so thankfully he had bathed after slaughtering Ikoma’s would-be kidnappers.

“Good evening Madara.” Tobirama greeted with crossed arms.

“You look like I’ve done something wrong.” Madara growled as he stepped inside.

“You left the village and attacked some weak low life criminals. Without telling me, or your Hokage. We’re lucky this time because it was just a small gang, but we cant have you going off on your own like that! It could put our village in a bad place diplomatically.” Tobirama growled.

“I took care of some morons who thought they were going to steal Ikoma!” Madara snarled right back. “I wasn’t going to sit around and wait for those idiots to send another kidnapper. It was better to take care of them now.” Madara looked around Tobirama’s front room. “Where is Ikoma? I need to make sure she’s safe.”

“She’s asleep. And safe.” Tobirama answered. Arms still crossed.

Madara turned to face him. “Please. I need to see her.” There was something about the way Madara looked that made Tobirama tip his head toward the nursery. Madara entered the room quietly to check on the sleeping cub. Tobirama wondered if he had looked like that when Hikaku told him his cub had been targeted.

After a few moments Madara returned to the room. Tobirama tipped his head curiously at the concern on the man’s face. “This can’t be the first time someone close to you has been in danger. Why have you reacted so strongly?”

“Because! They were after Ikoma!” Madara cried. “How could I be calm?”

“You could have sent a shinobi squad to take care of them, instead of going yourself! They were no match for you. And I know how much you hate fighting people weaker than yourself. Would you have behaved the same way had Izuna been the one targeted?” Tobirama asked.

“Izuna isn’t Ikoma! Or you! It’s not nearly the same.” Madara screeched quietly.

“Why? Because I’m an omega? You know I’m strong enough to protect the both of us! You know you don’t have to act like an overprotective alpha!”

“I didn’t protect Ikoma because you’re an omega and she’s just a cub! I did it because you’re both mine!” Madara did shout that last bit.

“Yours? Do you mean you see us as your pack?” Tobirama tipped his head curiously again. “I suppose that makes sense. With me suddenly being an omega and having a cub…”

“It’s not because you’re my pack. You’ve been a part of my pack for months now. But my instincts demand that I keep the two of you safe. I can barely control myself when you or Ikoma are threatened. How dare anyone try to hurt what is mine!”

Tobirama’s eyes were wide. “Do you have feelings for me Madara?” He asked with shock.

“This isn’t how I imagined telling you… But I do. I’m sorry if it makes you uncomfortable.” Madara said miserably. “But my instincts see you and your cub, as my own.”

“Is it because I was suddenly revealed to be an omega?” Tobirama asked with his heart in his throat. “Your instincts can’t handle my sudden change… And have decided that I’m yours, at least subconsciously.”

“Of course not! What do you take me for?” Madara asked furiously. “I’ve loved you for months now! Do you remember when we realized that running a village involved a lot more paperwork than using our ninja skills? And we decided to go get drunk? Well after that, if you had asked me to run away with you, I would have. I’ve wanted to be with you since then… But you never seemed interested in having a mate. Sharing your future with someone else.”

“You… love me?” Tobirama asked quietly. “But you don’t like omegas… You don’t want cubs or anything like that. You told me!”

“I didn’t want an omega or cubs! Because that wasn’t you. I wanted to be with you… Whether you were a beta or an omega.” Madara said.

“Madara…” He murmured and knew that his face must be a full on blush. “I never thought you could love me back. It didn’t seem possible.”

“Wait, are you saying you love me too?!” Madara shrieked.

If there was one obvious thing… It was that Madara was not great with feelings or romance. But it was fine because Tobirama wasn’t particularly skilled either.

“Yes. You are the one I want. The reason I stopped taking my suppressants… I wanted to see if you would like my scent.” Tobirama admitted quietly. “When you didn’t… I thought it was hopeless.”

“I do like your scent… and you were going to mate with that Nara because I was too much of a coward!” Madara cried. And his eyes spun into the sharingan.

Tobirama laughed. “I’m not going to mate the Nara now. And I think there are other things we could be doing besides talking about him.”

Madara looked at him with wide dark eyes. Unable to comprehend what Tobirama had suggested… Until realization dawned on him. “You want to…”

“I’d like to kiss you.” Tobirama held his arms out for Madara.

The man let out a sound that was part surprise and part happiness. It was so funny how he had just been talking about how he already saw Tobirama as his mate… But when Tobirama asked for a kiss the alpha started acting bashful.

But then Madara was across the room and taking Tobirama in his arms. They met in a kiss, and Tobirama finally got his hands in Madara’s wild mane of hair. And Madara sighed as he melted into the kiss.

When they pulled away, Tobirama couldn’t keep himself from rambling. “I wonder how our relationship will work. We’re both clan head… So its not like either of us can marry into the other’s clan. Will we live here? I can’t imagine living with Izuna… And if we have cubs which clan would they belong to? Will you raise Ikoma as your own? Will—”

“Would you shut up! I swear. All you Senju like to do is talk about the future. Why don’t we enjoy the present for once!” Madara huffed angrily. “Besides. I don’t care who belongs to which clan. As long as everyone knows I’m your mate and all those dim-witted alphas stay away from you!”

Tobirama felt himself grin unconsciously. Madara did have a point though. Why worry about the future when the present was perfect for once.

“But I will be raising Ikoma as my own. She’ll be a princess.” Madara said as he stroked his chin. “I’ll keep her safe, no matter what!”

Tobirama reached out and cupped Madara’s face. “Madara, you are a perfect alpha. My alpha. And I’m glad you’ll accept me and my cub as your own.”

That night Tobirama pulled Madara into his nest and didn't allow himself to worry about the future any more.

Chapter Text

Several years later.

After a few years, Madara and Tobirama agreed that it was time to have more cubs. Tobirama had worried that his reproductive system might not work because of all the suppressant abuse. But he had been wrong, when he ended up pregnant after their first heat spent together without birth control.

The pregnancy had been tough. He was tired all the time. And always wanted Madara. And he wanted weird foods.

In the last few weeks of the pregnancy a strange phenomenon happened. The cubs in his belly developed their own chakra signatures. And he could feel them. He knew that he had a little girl and a little boy cub.

Twins. He hadn’t thought that he would have multiple cubs at once… It hadn’t been difficult taking care of Ikoma as a single man… But two? At least this time he would have Madara to help.

Unfortunately, Madara was away on a mission when Tobirama went into labor. Some nine tailed fox demon threw a tantrum after some monks didn’t give it what it wanted. So Madara went to deal with it.

And Tobirama had their babies. The delivery wasn’t horrible, and the pain afterwards didn’t last very long since Anija was there to heal him after the birth.

His second little girl was born first. She had a healthy set of lungs and screamed her head off right as she was born. A midwife hastily began to clean her as Tobirama gave birth to his first little boy.

Anija frowned instantly as the little boy was born, and made no sound. He wasted no time taking the baby from the midwife and pressing his healing chakra into the cub. A few minutes later the boy began to cry as loud as his sister.

Tobirama leaned back on the pillows and panted. Comforted that his brother had saved his baby.

The midwife brought his little girl to him. She was wrapped in a blanket, but he could see that she looked like her papa. She had Madara’s black hair, his facial structure, and when she opened her eyes, Madara’s dark eyes looked back at him. She calmed and stopped crying once she was in his arms. He could feel her fledgeling chakra reaching out to him and her face was considering as she finally looked at him. Finally got to see her Daddy. She settled down as he stroked her hair.

“Your Papa is going to love you sweetie.” Tobirama murmured as he continued to stroke her hair. She yawned and got comfortable in his arms.

Anija brought his son a few minutes later. He had cleaned the boy and wrapped him in a blanket like his sister.

His appearance was much more surprising than his sister.

Madara had told him that in the cases of half-Uchiha children, the Uchiha genes were dominant. There was little to no difference between the full blooded Uchiha children, and the half-bloods. The half-bloods could develop the sharingan just as easily as the full-blooded members.

Madara and Tobiram’s biological cubs were likely going to develop the sharingan. Which made Madara proud.

Their son was still crying when Anija handed him over. Tobirama reached out with his free arm and cradled the little bundle. Eyes wide.

The little boy’s hair was multicolored. Like an invisible line ran through the center of his scalp, with Madara’s black hair on one side of his head, and Tobirama’s grey silvery hair on the other side of his head. The baby had his eyes clenched shut as he continued to cry. But like his sister, he calmed down once he could sense Tobirama’s chakra.

The cub opened his eyes after a few moments after and Tobirama gasped. The cub had blood red eyes just like him. The baby blinked up at him and Tobirama soothed his chakra over himself and the two cubs.

Anija sat down next to him and smiled. “They’re beautiful Tobi.”

“Yes they are.” Tobirama agreed. Even though he felt uneasy about his son’s eye color.

There was a knock at the door, and a moment later it was pushed open and a little dark head of hair poked inside. “Daddy? Can I come in?” Ikoma asked.

She was four and a half years old now, and had gotten better at asking permission before she barged into rooms.

“Come on in Ikoma.” Tobirama called to her. “Come meet your brother and sister.”

Ikoma’s dark eyes widened incredibly when she heard that. “A brother AND sister? Daddy! How did you know that I wanted both!” She cried as she scurried over to his bed.

Hashirama laughed and then got up to leave. He knew that Tobirama would want to be alone for this.

“Bye Uncle Hashi!” Ikoma waved as Hashirama left the room. Then she returned her eyes to Tobirama.

“Yes, our pack has two new cubs.” Tobirama answered. “A girl and a boy. Your siblings.”

Ikoma’s eyes were still wide. “Wow! Daddy I’m so happy.” She then held her arms out, waiting expectantly.

Tobirama felt himself smile at her entitlement. “Come sit next to me on the bed. I’ll let you hold your little sister.”

Ikoma crawled up on the bed with him and held her hands out again, waiting for Tobirama to hand her sister over.

The little cub cried out when Tobirama moved her, and fussed as Ikoma took her. But then curiously, she calmed down once she had settled into Ikoma’s arms. She blinked at looked up at her big sister.

“Daddy she likes me!” Ikoma whispered.

“She recognizes you.” Tobirama corrected, looking between his two daughters. “Uncle Hashirama said I did the same thing when I was born. I could sense his chakra while I was in our Mom’s belly, and recognized him when I was born.”

“She knows I’m her big sister?” Ikoma asked excitedly.

“She doesn’t know that yet. But she knows she’s safe with you. She knows you’ll never let anyone hurt her.” Tobirama murmured.

Ikoma looked down at her little sister seriously. “Nee-san will keep you safe.” She promised.

Tobirama smiled gently. “You’ll be a good big sister.”

“My brother looks like you!” Ikoma said when she looked at the cub in Tobirama’s arms.

“He does doesn’t he?”

Ikoma continued to make observations about her new siblings until she gave a loud yawn and fell asleep. The younger girl in Ikoma’s arms was also fast asleep. Once both the girls were sleeping, Tobirama looked back down at his son in worry.

The little boy had passed out like his sisters, so the red eyes were out of sight. But they were no less concerning. Madara had been very explicit that any of their biological children would very likely develop the sharingan. Apparently in Uchiha history, half Uchihas had all been able to develop the sharingan.

Provided that they had the same inky dark eyes of the full blooded Uchihas. Every record that Tobirama had ever seen regarding the sharingan all stated that it only developed in naturally black eyes.

Never in someone with naturally red eyes.

Would the Uchiha even accept one of their own if he couldn’t even develop the sharingan. Tobirama felt himself frown. Madara had been so proud when he talked about his children and their sharingan…

Tobirama sighed and rubbed his forehead. What luck was this… He managed to birth the first Uchiha who might not be able to physically manifest their most important dojutsu. He wondered if this was how his mother felt when he was born.

The red eyes wasn’t even a trait that belonged to the Senju or Uchiha clan. Tobirama inherited it from his mother’s side of the family. She apparently had some great-Uncle with red eyes, and the expression had somehow appeared in Tobirama, and now was in the Uchiha main line.

He didn’t know how much time passed before the door creaked open and a wild head of black hair poked inside. Madara had returned.

Madara took a step into the room and immediately activated his own sharingan. Taking in the sight of Tobirama and their three cubs. This was a habit of Madara’s. Any time he saw something that made him overwhelmingly happy or proud, he would activate the sharingan and record it. A handy tool that Tobirama was mildly jealous of.

“Did you get the fox?” Tobirama asked. This was the first time the Nine Tailed Fox had gone on a rampage, so he was curious to hear about Madara’s experience.

“Of course I did. Who do you think I am? I sent that thing packing! But I don’t want to talk about that. Tell me about the cubs!!” Madara shrieked. Waking Ikoma and the other two cubs.

“Papa!” Ikoma called out excitedly.

“We have twin cubs. A boy and a girl.” Tobirama anwered. “Like I would have told you a few weeks ago, because I could sense them. But you didn’t want the surprise ruined.” Tobirama couldn’t help but remind Madara of his own ridiculousness.

“They can sense just like Daddy! They know I’m their big sister.” Ikoma added.

Madara gasped and took the last remaining steps across the room and swept the new cubs into his own arms. “Twins!” He said excitedly.

Both of the cubs opened their eyes and glared up at their Papa. Not happy at being woken up.

Madara chatted with Ikoma about her new brother and sister for a few minutes before telling the little girl to go get some sleep. And thankfully, Ikoma was so tired that she agreed.

Once they were alone, Madara seemed to settle down. Although he was still holding each cub. Looking at them like he could barely believe they were real.

“I hope you’re happy.” Tobirama said to break the silence.

“Happy? Of course I’m happy! Two new cubs.” Madara said with glee. “No one in the Uchiha clan has ever had twins before!”

Tobirama blinked. “Lots of Senjus have twins. So this isn’t all that speci—”

“Tobirama! Any cubs are special.” Madara chided. He went back to cooing at the cubs. Both of who were still looking curiously at their papa.

“The boy inherited my red eyes.” Tobirama said. Deciding to jump in and deal with any potential issues this could cause.

“Oh wow! You’re right. He also got some of your hair. I must say that bodes well for him. It’ll be better if he looks like you instead of me.” Madara said seriously. “Hopefully the girl doesn’t look too much like me when she gets older.”

“Madara. He had red eyes. As in his eyes are not black, like yours. And every other Uchiha. As in highly likely he will not develop the sharingan.” Tobirama crossed his arms to hold himself together.

Madara looked down at the boy with a frown. “Huh. I guess that could be true. Poor thing. He’s actually going to have to learn how to read unlike everyone else.”

Horror crossed Tobirama’s face. “What the hell does that mean? Do the Uchiha seriously not teach each other how to read? You just wait for someone to develop the sharingan?” His face had grown high pitched. This was too much after everything he had gone through today.

Madara was seriously not planning to teach their cubs how to read! He was going to let them grow up like some uncivilized hicks, unable to read a single word until their sharingan developed. There was no way he was going to let that happen.

Madara laughed sheepishly. “Sorry Tobirama—I didn’t mean that OUR cubs wouldn’t read… That’s just how its done. Why bother using resources to teach someone how to read when once they get the sharingan they can learn in minutes.” Madara stepped over to the side of the bed and sat down on the edge. Both cubs still in his arms.

Tobirama glared and Madara sighed. “Anyway, you seem tired. Why don’t you get some rest and I’ll take care of the little ones.”

“You didn’t even listen to me! Madara, your son probably won’t have the sharingan!” Tobirama muttered. He looked down into their son’s face, and the blood eyes were looking up at him.

“Yeah you said that.” Madara shrugged.

“Isnt that a bad thing? Your clans most treasured dojutsu?!”

“Well, if my Father were here he would certainly think so. He didn’t care about any of my brothers until we developed our sharingan. I don’t want to be like him. That’s not how a kid should be raised.” Madara set the baby in Tobirama’s arms. “Besides, he’s your son too. And you’re the one always saying correlation doesn’t equal causation! We don’t actually know if he will inherit the sharingan or not. Just because everyone with black eyes developed it, doesn’t mean that black eyes were necessary.”

Tobirama’s anger dissipated in a moment and he felt himself deflate. “You really don’t care?”

“Not about the sharingan. The most important thing is that he will have to be a good brother to his sisters! Protecting them, keeping boys away and all that.”

Madara looked into Tobirama’s face with a frown. “Huh. You must have been stressing yourself out about this.”

Tobirama nodded.

“Well, crisis averted. I don’t care if any of our kids has the sharingan or not. I wouldn’t have mated with you if that was an issue for me. If Izuna says anything I’ll blast him into the pond.”

Madara took the two cubs and got them settled in the bassinets. Then he went back and tucked Tobirama in.

“If you were so attached to our other cubs having the sharingan, weren’t you worried that Ikoma would feel left out?” Madara asked curiously after he slipped into the bed with Tobirama.

Tobirama was having a hard time keeping his eyes open. “Don’t worry about her. I have something way cooler than the sharingan for her.”