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Madara was sitting on the cliff overlooking the village, watching another peaceful evening in Konoha. He watched the people walking on the streets, eating snacks, drinking and talking. The weather today was warm, so the relative cold of the upcoming night promised a relief for the people of Konoha. Up there, on the cliff, all that he could hear were just muffled street noises. He quite enjoyed that. This way he was included in the life of the village without taking part in any of those activities. Don’t get him wrong, he liked being around his new neighbours, but he could feel people staring at him. He didn’t know if they were actually scared of him or if they were just intimidated by his presence. Just like Hashirama advised, he tried to be more approachable, but it didn’t work yet. Maybe it would one day. Hopefully.
He spent most of his evenings here. Sometimes Izuna and Tobirama kept him company, but Hashirama came here more often. Sometimes all four of them would meet here to talk and laugh. Even Tobirama wasn’t so hostile nowadays. Izuna wasn’t as suspicious as he used to be of the Senju brothers and often talked to them. Madara and Hashirama could be friends again. In their newly formed village they tried to renew their childhood friendship. Of course, with their leads being on good terms, the previously deadly disagreements between their clans also started to quiet down. When people saw Madara and Hashirama getting on in harmony, they started to treat each other with more respect as well. The current situation made all of them content.
Even though there was still a lot to do when it came to creating peace between Konoha and other villages, at least their people now worked to find a good solution when problems arose. Hashirama was the Hokoge, but they all helped him. Madara handled the educational system, and he always made sure Hashirama behaved worthy of his title. He couldn’t let him humiliate himself in front of the other Kages. He had to keep an eye on him, especially after how Hashirama took him by surprise on that first meeting just after he became Hokage. Madara was well aware that Hashirama could behave in a very undignified way, but he was completely unprepared for Hashirama slamming his head against the table in a humble manner, and was too stunned to react in time. He was so angry at himself for the slow reaction and at Hashirama for his poor self-control. After that, he always made a point to be right next to Hashirama during meetings to stop him on time in case he wanted to do something like that again. He was always present there as the leader of the Uchiha clan, anyway.
Tobirama took care of most of the foreign affairs, such as negotiating with the Daimyo and the other villages, and helped Hashirama to handle any issues that arose in their clan. Izuna was really good at managing internal relations - it was his job to make sure the citizens from different clans got on well. He also organised their most important events. The younger Uchiha was part of the group responsible for Konoha’s defence systems as well, alongside Tobirama, who designed the jutsu that ensured the village noticed any unauthorised entrances or sneak-attacks. They had some advisors, mostly from the Nara and Sarutobi clan, to help them with everything that came with running a brand new shinobi village. Work was plenty but between all of them they were more than able to handle it.
Sitting up here at his favourite spot always made Madara nostalgic, as he used to meet here with Hashirama when they were kids. He sometimes dwelled on the past - how he became the clan leader after his father’s death, only to find out a couple of months later that Hashirama became the Senju leader as well. During the first fight between them as the head of their respective clans, Tobirama wounded Izuna’s shoulder. Madara tried to help him, but he had no idea about healing jutsus or knew much about medicines in general. That realisation made him really nervous - he loved Izuna from the bottom of his heart, and just the possibility of losing him was enough to make Madara suffer.
He stayed by the sickbed that night after the battle until his younger brother had finally fallen asleep, then he left his side quietly. He tried to get some rest, but he was too troubled and feeling lost to find peace in sleep. He tossed and turned and thought about the only place that always soothed his nerves - The River.
Unable to resist the temptation of trying to find peace there again, he walked out to the shore. He sat at the bank and watched the moon's light dancing on the gentle waves. He didn’t expect to meet Hashirama there, especially after an earlier battle between their clans. Surprised as they both were by their chance encounter, they had to realise something. Neither of them wanted to fight each other, not for life and death the very least. They sat together in silence, Madara looking at the river rather than his friend turned enemy. It was Hashirama who started to talk after a while. At first their conversation was awkward, but after a while Hashirama started talking about their old dream to make a safe place. Madara was too troubled to think about their childish dream, especially when his little brother lay wounded back at the Uchiha camp. He dismissed Hashirama that night, but they met each other the next evening, in the same place by their river. Hashirama wanted to talk about the village again, but Madara’s reaction was the same as the previous evening. They met there for a couple of nights in a row, and after some time Madara softened.
They were the leaders of their respective clans now, Hashirama insisted, they had the chance to finally achieve the peace they desired. They were rivals, but never enemies - they didn’t want to fight each other seriously. On the fourth day of meeting by the river, Madara agreed to the truce. Izuna hadn’t really trusted Hashirama back then, but he let him heal his shoulder, on which the wound got infected and was rapidly worsening.
Hashirama and Madara already knew the perfect place for their desired village. Both clans worked hard to make their dream come true - their people were tired of fighting as well. By the end of last year the village was ready to welcome its first occupants. Madara’s 20th birthday was the first celebration after the truce, shortly before both Izuna and Tobirama turned eighteen.
“Do you mind if I join you?” Madara heard someone familiar behind him. He turned around to see Hashirama.
“No, it's fine, you can join me. As always,” Madara kept his expression carefully neutral, but deep inside he was excited to see his friend. Hashirama’s smile got even wider as he sat down next to him. Hashirama didn't speak up straight away. He stared up at the sky, his smile not so bright anymore. A few minutes of this, and Madara just wasn’t able to stand the silence anymore.
“What’s on your mind? You look troubled, Hashirama,” Madara asked. Hashirama looked at him for a long moment, before he responded.
“Oh, it’s nothing, really. Don’t worry about it,” the Senju said. Madara looked up at the sky too. The silence wasn’t uncomfortable, but it was unexpected, and Madara wanted to know the reason behind it.
“If you say so… But remember, you can always talk to me if you want to,” he said and did his best to give him a friendly, encouraging smile, even if he probably failed at it. Hashirama’s lips twitched up as well and after a moment he burst out laughing at his friend's awkwardness. Madara hit his shoulder with his fist, but not hard enough to actually hurt Hashirama.
“Thank you, I know. Anyways, what’s your plans for the evening?”
“I don’t have any plans, I think I will just go back home,” Madara sighed, letting Hashirama change the subject from whatever he wasn’t telling him.
“So, uhm, maybe you would like to come over to my place for some tea? We could play Shogi later or something,” Hashirama suggested. “I mean, it’s fine if you don’t want to, you probably have something to do or—”
“Stop making this difficult. I’m coming with you,” Madara said sternly. Kami, Hashirama could be so indecisive sometimes. Relief and happiness replaced the insecurity on his friend’s face. This made Madara’s heart do something funny. He wasn’t sure what he was feeling but he found he liked it, whatever it was.
“Okay, okay, sorry,” Hashirama grinned at him. Madara rolled his eyes at him. He actually did it twice - just to make a point. Hashirama got up, “Let’s go then,” he inclined his head down at the village where his house stood.
Their walk to the Hokage’s home didn’t take long and the Uchiha enjoyed Hashirama’s companion. They didn’t meet anyone on their way, which was a small blessing in Madara’s opinion. Hashirama led him inside, asked him to sit, while he made them some green tea. They were silent, but it was enjoyable, the sign of understanding between two friends.
Hashirama was an accomplished warrior, but he also had the secret talent to make amazing tea. The temperature and taste were perfect, but what made his tea the best were the different types of flower petals he used, which he most likely collected by himself from his garden. When their cups were emptied, Hashirama got up to find the Shogi set. Their clash on the board wasn’t as spectacular as it used to be on the battlefield, but it was still definitely fierce, a fight between combatants of matching power. They both won one round, and they were in the middle of the third and final game, when Tobirama arrived home.
“I didn't really expect to find you here, Uchiha,” he raised his eyebrows at Madara.
“I invited Madara over for some tea and a game, Tobirama,” Hashirama said and his smile was back again.
“I can see that. The Shogi board and the tea cups clued me in,” Tobirama mocked his brother. “Have you even checked the time? Do I really need to remind you that we have a conference tomorrow morning? It’s not my business, but Hashirama, I swear, if you doze off tomorrow in the middle of the meeting, I will personally kick you out,” he threatened, leaving the other two in no doubt he wasn’t joking.
“Brother… How can you…?” Hashirama made an exaggerated, depressed face, which he knew Madara found annoying.
“He’s not wrong though. I still remember that meeting with the Kazekage,” Madara teased him with a small smile. That was a rare sight, and as such pleasantly surprising.
“Oh no, not you too, Madara!” Hashirama’s face turned even sadder, but he did stand up. “I guess you are right…”
Madara and Tobirama looked at each other and chuckled. Madara got up from behind the Shogi board as well.
“I will be on my way. I will remind Izuna about the meeting,” he announced.
“He won’t forget it. He’s already back at your place,” Tobirama said. He blushed slightly when he saw the surprise on the faces of the other two. Madara raised an eyebrow.
“How can you possibly know that, Tobirama?” He mocked Hashirama’s little brother.
“Um, I just saw him entering your house on my way back here from the Hokage’s office,” Tobirama hesitated then quickly turned to leave. Madara was quite amused by this, but he didn’t comment any further.
“Madara, I will walk you home,” Hashirama offered when Madara was putting on his shoes and Madara didn’t turn him down.
Hashirama stayed way too close to him as they walked down the evening streets together, their shoulders bumping almost every step. When they arrived, and Madara was ready to go inside, Hashirama stopped him with a hand on his arm. It was just a small gesture but it made Madara’s heart jump.
“Sleep well, Madara,” Hashirama smiled. It wasn’t his normal grin, though. This one was different, but Madara couldn't decide what it meant. It wasn’t the usual blinding beam, but somehow softer and more tender. Hashirama never said anything like this, catching Madara by surprise.
“Uhm… Thanks. You too,” Madara muttered, unsure how he should react.
After a couple of very awkward seconds, Hashirama spoke again.
“By the way, I couldn’t help but notice how your house is definitely not en route between our home and the Hokage’s office,” he remarked with fake innocence.
“I know,” Madara laughed, “but I decided to let him off the hook.”
The conference went well, as all participants were still alive, and no one was even seriously hurt. They managed to discuss the most urgent issue, which was the new Konoha defence system that Izuna and Tobirama created together. Hashirama stayed awake for the whole time, even if he looked a bit sleepy. After Tobirama’s threat to kick him out, he didn’t dare to fall asleep.
After the meeting was over, Izuna left the office in a hurry, because he had “a lot of work to do” . At least, that was what he said. Madara noticed Izuna and Tobirama were spending quite a lot of time together nowadays. Arguments between them were a lot less frequent than they used to be. In fact, they seemed to get on quite well. They also tended to help each other out at work - Tobirama followed Izuna soon afterwards this time as well. Madara lingered, collecting his documents, when he felt a hand on his shoulder.
“I was in a rush this morning and I didn’t have time to eat my breakfast. Do you care to join me? I’m going to this new place down the street. Tobirama mentioned it the other day and it looks promising,” Hashirama asked with a hopeful smile.
“Sure, I almost overslept and didn’t have time to eat breakfast either. I will join you,” Madara replied, keeping his face blank, but deep inside he was happy for the opportunity to spend more time with Hashirama.
They went together to the ramen restaurant, talking mostly about their work and an upcoming meeting with the representatives of the clans who wanted to join Konoha. It was only due in a few weeks time, but it didn’t hurt to prepare in advance. Besides, preparing meant he could spend more time with Hashirama and he liked his company.
When the food arrived, Madara was surprised how good it was. It was much better than his usual food. Who would have thought Tobirama knew places like this? They ate in relative silence, exchanging praises about their lunch only. Madara was happy to enjoy it in Hashirama’s company. When they cleared off all their bowls Hashirama spoke again.
“Say, Madara, do you have any plans for the evening?”
“Can’t say I have,” Madara replied carefully. “Why?”
“Tobirama and I are planning to visit that new place, you know, the one near the Uchiha district. Do you want to join us? Izuna is welcome as well, but Tobirama probably invited him already. What do you say, will you keep us company?” Hashirama asked him.
“Why not,” Madara shrugged. He knew the place, it was small and relatively quiet, which caught his attention. Izuna had already been there, but the older Uchiha was busy lately. He happily accepted the invitation. Besides, now that their clans were at peace, the four of them could allow themselves the luxury of enjoying the time they spent together.
“Brother, don’t you think you had enough?” Tobirama snickered.
“No, no, I’m fine, I’m just a little tipsy,” Hashirama replied. They were at “the new place”, which Madara had learned was actually a bar. They shared a few drinks, but not enough to actually get drunk - Izuna, sitting next to Madara, was laughing at Tobirama’s attempt to hide his own state. From across the table, Hashirama was trying to get Madara to drink more.
At one point Hashirama declared he needed fresh air. Madara decided to join him - he had enough of all the people inside by now. It was a Friday evening, and the streets were busy, but Hashirama steered them to a quiet bench. It might have helped that he was the Hokage, and people gave him space. He looked at Madara with a serious expression once they sat down, or as serious as his inebriated state allowed.
“Tell me, Madara, are you single?”
“What? Why do you even ask me such things?” The question took Madara by surprise. They had never talked about relationships, love or anything so personal like this.
Hashirama smiled sheepishly. “Oh, I was just curious. I’ve never seen you with anyone and I was wondering. That’s all. That’s definitely all.”
Madara looked at him suspiciously. He didn’t believe him.
“Ohh come on, Madara, tell me,” Hashirama probed again.
“Excuse me?” Madara asked with a serious face, but deep inside he was amused. Tobirama was right. Indeed, Hashirama should have stopped drinking a glass or two ago.
“Don’t be like that, tell me, we are friends.”
“No.” Madara tried to cut him off for good. He had no intention to speak about such private matters with a drunkard! He ignored how he, himself, was quite tipsy too.
“And what if I tell you first?” Hashirama suggested. He looked hopeful, his eyes shining brightly in the lamplight of the streets. It was probably just the alcohol.
“I. Said. No.”
“Ah, don’t be like that, you’re my best friend! Tell me, Madara, please,” There was an almost visible dark cloud forming over Hashirama’s head. Madara just knew he would act all depressed and gloomy in the next second, and he hated it when that happened. Madara was a very private person, and he didn’t like to talk about things like this, but Hashirama was hard to resist. The Senju was drunk, but looked way too innocent sitting there under the stars. Madara wasn’t exactly sober himself, which must have been why his resolve wavered.
“Ughh, fine.” he agreed.
“Great! You won’t regret it!” Hashirama promised, his eyes twinkling. “Here we go - I’m single,” Hashirama blurted and stared at Madara, eagerly waiting for his reply.
“I don’t have anyone either,” Madara confessed with a sigh.
“Why are you single? I know women admire you,” Hashirama winked at him in such an exaggeratedly lecherous way, Madara would have laughed if he wasn’t suddenly feeling embarrassed.
“I’m not interested,” Madara mumbled. “Stop asking me such things, Hashirama!” he suddenly snapped. He didn’t want to talk about this. There was only one person he could be attracted to, and, oh, this person wasn’t a woman.
“Alright, but let’s say someone could make you interested. What’d be your type?” Hashirama asked and that one, simple questions made Madara’s blood boil with embarrassment. The only person he talked to about personal matters was Izuna, and even with him, they didn’t talk about love interests at all. “Hey, it’s just a question, calm down,” Hashirama smiled.
“I will never let you forget this night, you are going to regret it so, so much.”
“But, my dear friend, there’s nothing wrong in talking about these things!” Madara was definitely going to kill him. His death would be slow and painful. He had never been this embarrassed in front of Hashirama. The Uchiha could feel his cheeks reddening and he’s never been more thankful for his long hair, so he could hide behind it
“I have dignity!” Madara snapped. “So it’s not alright with me.”
“We are friends and friends talk about love, you know?” Hashirama insisted. “Do you like someone? You can tell me, your secret is safe with me.” He saw Madara’s furious scowl and immediately added, “I will tell you about myself first, how about that?” When Madara at least didn’t become any more angry, he continued. “You see, there’s someone I like. This person is shorter than I am, with coal black hair that’s long and wild and probably totally unmanageable. Their smile is a rare treasure, but when he casts it at me, my heart melts. They have the darkest, deepest, most beautiful eyes, I stop to think about anything else when they look at me. They are smart, and my equal on the battlefield. Their sense of humour is… I would say quite specific, but I still find them funny. They have the most amazing laugh, it’s a shame they almost never do. They like to wear dark clothes and they are really into falconry…”
“Hashirama?” Madara whispered. Was he serious? After all those years? Or was it only the alcohol talking?
“Yes?”
“I… there’s someone I like, too. His hair is long, dark and shiny. I imagine it would be very pleasant under my fingers, but I’ve never touched it. His smile and eyes are cheerful and bright, though he tends to get depressed easily,” Hashirama chuckled and Madara eased up a bit. “He’s outgoing and people love him,” Madara muttered. He’s never been good at talking about feelings. “I don’t know what to do now,” Madara reluctantly admitted.
“We don’t have to do anything for now, but I would like to spend more time with you. To see your soft side more often.” Hashirama chuckled. “No, don’t even try to deny it, we both know you have one,” he added when Madara wanted to object. “Uhm, so, now that we know we like each other… I wonder, would you agree to date me? Try to see how it would be like for us to be together?” he asked, suddenly sounding shy.
“Yes, I agree, but can we take things slowly? I don’t want anyone to know about all of this,” Madara said.
“It can be just our secret for now,” Hashirama agreed. They smiled at each other and went back to the bar.
“Madara, you’re back! Come, sit down,” Izuna grabbed his hand and dragged him down. He seemed to be in very high spirits. His cheeks were flushed slightly and his eyes twinkled happily. The Senju brothers exchanged sneaky smiles the moment Izuna started to talk to Madara. Neither of the Uchiha brothers caught this.
Tobirama and Hashirama decided to walk the Uchiha brothers home on the short distance that was between the bar and their house. It was a quiet night, which all of them found very pleasant.
“Would you like to come in for some tea? Izuna bought a new blend, if you want to try it out with us.” Madara asked when they arrived at the gate. The Senjus happily accepted the invitation.
Just as they finished the tea, Tobirama asked Izuna if they could have a private conversation. “It’s about that issue the Nara clan brought up,” he said mysteriously, not giving their older brothers any more explanation.
“They spend so much time together, working, throughout the day. What could be so urgent, to talk about it at nighttime, too?” Madara wondered.
“Looks like we are left on our own, Madara,” Hashirama beamed and inched closer. Much closer. He placed a gentle hand on Madara’s waist. His other hand rose to carefully run though Madara’s hair, then it moved lower to his neck and shoulder. Hashirama ran his exploring fingers down his arm to finally circle them around his wrist. He was so close. His eyes twinkled merrily and his lips curved up into a smug smile. His palm touched Madara’s cheek and made him look up into his face. The Uchiha didn’t meet his eyes, rather he lowered his gaze and bit his lip.
“What’s wrong, Madara?” Hashirama asked gently, but Madara didn’t feel like answering him. He felt his face flushing. He tried to get up, only to be stopped as Hashirama didn’t let his wrist go. “Hey, what’s wrong? Did I do something?” the Senju repeated his question.
“No, no, I just… I need to go,” Madara stammered and got up. Hashirama tried to stop him, but the Uchiha didn’t let himself be stopped and left the room.
Izuna tried to talk to his brother about the sudden change in his mood, but Madara could be a very secretive person.
“Did Hashirama do something? Did he say something?”
“Brother, please stop it. Nothing happened, I’m just tired, that’s all,” He tried to brush Izuna’s questioning off, hoping he’d stop trying to interrogate him.
“I can see you’re upset, I just want to help you,” he assured his older brother, but Madara had no intention of confessing what happened between him and Hashirama, no matter how expectantly Izuna looked at him. “I will be in my room if you change your mind. You can come and talk to me if you want. That’s what brothers are for.”
It was after midnight when Madara came to Izuna’s room. The younger Uchiha was reading a cookbook. Madara was relieved, he thought his brother might have fallen asleep already.
“Ah, have you decided to talk to me, after all?” Izuna smiled, “Come here, sit down,” Madara sat in front of his brother and wondered how to confess what was on his heart.
“I’m not sure where to start… You see, ugh, how to say it…” after a moment Madara decided he would be just blunt. “Hashirama tried to kiss me, but…” Madara hesitated and trailed off.
“But you have never kissed anyone before,” Izuna finished his brother’s sentence. Madara lifted his head and looked at his brother in surprise.
“How do you know?”
“I mean, we’re siblings, I know you.” Izuna replied with a smile. Madara sighed and buried his face in his hands.
“What should I do? I escaped without any explanation. I didn’t want to hurt him, but I just couldn’t stay there.” A stranger wouldn’t have noticed the change in Madara’s voice, but his brother knew him well and heard it trembling slightly.
“I think you should just be honest. If he really cares about you he will understand and won’t pressure you,” Izuna reassured him.
“Do you think that would work? Madara asked hopefully.
“I can’t promise you it will, but it’s worth a try” Izuna placed his hand on his brother’s shoulder encouragingly.
“Thank you, I should have asked you sooner,” Madara said, cheering up a bit. “Anyway, why are you reading about—” he sneaked a look at the book “how to prepare fish?” he asked after a moment, in an obvious attempt to change the subject. He was quite amused to see his brother blushing and hiding his book behind his back.
“Oh, I was just curious,” Izuna waved him off, trying to look nonchalant.
Madara knew he should talk to Hashirama, but finding the courage needed to do so was hard. Deep inside he knew Izuna’s advice was good; he did want to talk to Hashirama, but he didn’t know how to explain everything. But it wasn’t only the bother of having to explain himself that kept him away from Hashirama. He hated to even admit it to himself, but he was afraid of his reaction. He knew him for years, he knew Hashirama to be friendly, outgoing and a man who didn’t hold grudges, but… Madara knew he hurt him, and he had no idea if Hashirama was willing to listen to his fumbling explanation, not to mention giving him a second chance.
So, he avoided his friend for a couple of days, delaying the inevitable. Then he woke up one morning and decided this just couldn’t continue. He was no coward - even if he was afraid of Hashirama’s reactions, he still had to talk to him. The very least he owned him was an explanation.
Hashirama and Tobirama were eating breakfast at home, when Madara burst into the room.
“Hashirama, we need to talk!” he demanded.
“As you can see, I am a bit busy right now,” Hashirama replied. Madara took a deep, calming breath and tried to ease his nerves. He decided that his friendship with Hashirama was more valuable than his pride.
“Hashirama, please, I really need to talk to you, it's important,’ he insisted, gentler this time. Hashirama looked stunned by his friend’s unexpectedly soft tone of voice.
“Fine, let’s talk outside,” the Senju pointed at his garden. As Madara walked out with him, the silence between them wasn’t as comfortable as it usually was. This time it was awkward and unpleasant. Madara tried to take a couple of calming breaths, but it didn’t work - not this time, when he was just about to confess something private and embarrassing to Hashirama. They stood outside for a while, doing nothing but listening to the birds singing carelessly. At last, Hashirama spoke up. “So, what did you want to talk about?”
“I wanted to apologise for the last time. I shouldn't have left you like that, without any explanation.” Madara stopped and looked at his friend’s face, only to see a raised brow. He had no other choice but to continue. “I don’t know how to say this. I don’t have much experience with relationships, even less with being… close to someone. I hate to admit it, but I panicked. I’ve never been so close to anyone.” Hashirama’s face became softer with every word. “I didn’t mean to leave you like that, but I was overwhelmed. I really like you and I would like to try again one day if you’re willing to,” Madara added quietly. He looked at the ground and waited for Hashirama’s response, only to feel his hand on his. He raised his face and met Hashirama’s eyes, which were full of tenderness.
“You know, you could’ve just told me. I wouldn’t have tried to kiss you if I knew it made you uncomfortable,” he smiled at Madara, “And of course I’d be happy to try again,” he added in a soft voice.
“Aren’t you mad at me?’
“I’ve never been, I was worried that I did something wrong that hurt you, but I wasn’t mad at you.”
Madara looked at him with a shy smile and moved a bit closer. He knew he would be ashamed about it later, but he reached out awkwardly, and when Hashirama didn’t protest, embraced him. If Hashirama was surprised by his action, he didn’t show it. He hugged him back and petted his hair gently.
“Do you want to join us for breakfast? We have steamed buns, I know how much you like them,” Hashirama offered after Madara stepped back
“With pleasure,” Madara smiled slightly. Hashirama’s eyes twinkled.
They went back inside and sat down. Madara picked up a steamed bun and savoured the amazing taste.
“I’ll leave you two to your business, it’s time for me to leave,” Tobirama stood up once they were finished and were just sitting around, enjoying their tea.
“Oh, where are you going?” Hashirama asked his brother.
“The weather is perfect for fishing,” Tobirama beamed, which Madara found a bit surprising, because he had no idea about this particular hobby of Tobirama.
“You’re right, it’s such a nice day,” Hashirama agreed with a mysterious smile, catching Madara’s attention. He felt something changed between the brothers, but he wasn’t sure what it was. It would have gone unnoticed by someone who didn’t know the two Senju so well, but they couldn’t hide something like that from his clever eyes. “Have fun, little brother,” said Hashirama, chuckling.
“You too,” Tobirama laughed and left the room.
“What was this about?” Madara asked. Hashirama laughed and he sounded a bit rattled for no apparent reason.
“Nothing to worry about,” he chortled and tried to regain his usual posture, which took him a moment, before he succeeded. Madara looked at him questioningly. “Hey, don’t look at me like that! It’s nothing to worry about, I promise.”
Hashirama raised his hands in a placating gesture, but when Madara obviously wasn’t convinced, he tried another trick up his sleeve. He made the saddest face possible, one could practically see the dark cloud forming over his head. Madara rolled his eyes at him, still annoyed, but then shrugged. He didn’t really need to know the Senju brothers’ secret.
“It’s not that I’m dying to sit behind the desk, but it’s due time I start to work ,” Hashirama sighed.
“Are you planning to work on the speech for the meeting with the clans who we hope will join us?”
“Yes, that’s exactly what I need to do. You’re welcome to stay, I could use some help,” Hashirama suggested. Madara smiled at him indulgently. He didn’t mind helping, especially if that meant they could spend more time together.
By the afternoon Hashirama’s speech was ready. As promised, he didn’t try to kiss Madara, respecting his boundaries. Although, as time passed, he started to sit closer to him, leaning into his personal space more and more. He often reached out, offering barely-there, casual touches. They didn’t make Madara feel uncomfortable, so he just let him do it. He didn’t want to admit it at first, but the feeling of Hashirama's warm body next to him was nice. He wasn’t opposed to being touched in this way. After some time he leaned slightly against Hashirama. When they finished preparing the speech, they just stayed like that, neither of them wanting to be the first to stop the contact.
Madara was explaining about the differences of the kinds of birds of prey species the Uchiha used for hunting, though he suspected he lost Hashirama at one point, when Tobirama arrived.
“How did fishing go, brother?”
“Oh, it was great. I was just coming back when I ran into Izuna. I invited him over. I thought you two should discuss the upcoming meeting with the Konoha clans, as he is the one who organises this whole thing,” Izuna came in after Tobirama, smiling at their older brothers.
“Hashirama, I remember you were complaining about the speech yesterday. I was nearby and I thought I can offer my help, if you need it,” Izuna offered.
“Thank you, but with Madara’s assistance, it’s already done,” Hashirama smiled gratefully at his friend. “What about the location? How are the preparations going? Is everything in order?”
“One smallish problem, smoothed with the help of Tobirama, so now everything’s going great,” Izuna looked fondly at Tobirama.
“That’s great to hear!” Hashirama said, but Izuna was looking at Tobirama instead.
“I think you left your fishing rod outside.”
“Uh, did I?” Tobirama looked back at the Uchiha boy with a glance that didn’t seem innocent at all to Madara. “Oh, yes. Yes, I did.” He turned to go back outside, Izuna straight on his heels. Madara heard their quiet chuckles from the other side of the door
“Is everything alright over there?” Madara wasn’t sure what was the meaning of this.
“I’m sure our brothers are just fine, Madara,” Hashirama laughed, drawing his attention back to himself. “Let them just do whatever they want,” he added with a smirk.
“Actually, I think I should check on them, they didn’t sound quite right, they never laugh like this. Especially not your brother,” Madara insisted.
“Oh no, Tobirama laughs all the time. We were just hardly in a situation where you could witness it before,” Madara frowned at that explanation and stood up. “No, Madara, wait, they’re alright, believe me,” Hashirama insisted, louder this time. He tried to grab Madara’s wrist, but Madara was too fast for him this time. He rushed outside, only to see Izuna and Tobirama… kissing.
“Are you telling me you are dating Tobirama?” Madara repeated, surprised. “For how long?”
“Not very long, just a couple of weeks, really. He’d been dropping hints for a while and then I kind of agreed to go out with him at one point. We kissed in the bar, that one and only time you agreed to go out, you know which one.”
“Of course, I know which one, but I have no idea when you two had the chance to…” Madara trailed off. He and Hashirama did go outside to get some fresh air and they sat down on that bench to talk but… Weren’t they gone only for a couple of minutes? He was absolutely sure it wasn’t enough time to… To get together. How was it possible? Didn’t these things take more time? They certainly did for him. “Izuna, why didn’t you tell me? That’s what brothers are for , don’t you remember?” Madara couldn't hide his darkened mood.
“I really wanted to, but I know you and Tobirama aren’t on the best terms. Of course, everybody sees you two are getting along much better than you used to, but I was afraid you wouldn't like this development.”
Madara sighed and rubbed his neck. He understood his brother’s decision, but he couldn’t stop feeling a bit saddened how he kept such a big thing a secret from him.
“I get it, I might have done the same if I were you, I guess,” Madara looked at his brother, “You know what? Tobirama’s not as bad as I used to think he is. “Sometimes he can even be pleasant,” he took a significant pause, before adding. “Rarely,” he chuckled. “Just don’t tell him I said that.”
“You know what’s funny? Tobirama made me promise the same thing about you.” Madara looked at him with raised brows, but Izuna just shrugged. “I’m just saying he doesn’t dislike you.”
Well, that was quite a surprise. Or maybe, if he thought about it, it wasn’t that much - he did notice Tobirama wasn’t as harsh as he used to be, nowadays. Madara himself eased up on him as well.
“I guess that’s not a bad thing.” They chatted for quite awhile, changing subject from surprise romance with Senjus to all kinds of things they usually talked about as brothers, from clan issues to hopeful plans in their village.
“I don’t know about you little brother, but I’m starving. Would you like to eat something together, just the two of us?” Madara smiled hopefully. Madara had only ever let Izuna see his soft side - him, and as a recent development, Hashirama.
“Oh, I’ve already had some fish and I’m full, but I’m happy to keep you company. Maybe I can have some tea. How does it sound?”
“ Fish , you say? Sure, let me get something for myself then, and some tea for both of us.”
Today was The Day.
They gathered with the clan leaders who expressed their wishes to join Konoha, discussing terms, presenting what the village could offer them in turn of their loyalty. There were many practical issues to solve too - settling down so many people at once was no easy feat. Yet, given that everything would go as planned, all the new clans could be part of Konoha by the end of the next year.
When the meeting was over and their guests left, Hashirama, Madara, Izuna and Tobirama weren’t able to hide how excited they all were. They worked hard for this, and this interest in their shinobi village was more than what they could ever hope for.
“Do you think this is it? They will all agree to join us on our terms?” Izuna wondered aloud, more as an affirmation to himself than as a question to the others.
“It’s really happening, isn’t it?” Hashirama beamed at Madara, who smiled back. He found Hashirama quite irresistible like this, happy and innocent looking with that sincere smile of his. Madara knew it was a rhetorical question, but he stepped up to him and took his hand.
“Yes, it is,” he looked at Hashirama and smiled gently. While he had the reputation of being stoic, such good news would make anyone happy.
“I have an idea! Let us celebrate this wonderful achievement. I need to write some arrangements down, but I don’t have any more plans for today. Let’s meet by the new bridge on the Naka river in 2 hours. What do you say?” Hashirama suggested. They all agreed with him. Something like this called for a celebration.
“I will come with you, you can probably use a hand,” Madara offered his help.
“That’s nice, thank you. So many things were said, I can’t even be sure if I remember everything correctly,” Hashirama scratched his neck sheepishly. “Izuna, Tobirama, would you mind fetching something to eat and drink for us while Madara and I take care of the paperwork? With Madara’s help, we should be finished with all this documentation pretty fast.”
“It won’t be a problem,” Tobirama replied to his older brother.
“Don’t worry, we will find something delicious,” Izuna offered, standing up. Tobirama followed suit and they left together.
The two older brothers took a leisurely stroll over to the Hokage office, where Hashirama busied himself behind his desk, with Madara looking over his shoulder to ensure he got everything down correctly.
Hashirama looked up at him once they were done. The unmasked flicker of happiness in those dark eyes made his heart soar. Madara was so guarded usually, he didn’t often show when he was happy. Hashirama was so grateful every time he was allowed to witness it.
“Thank you, Madara. I wouldn’t be able to do this without you. These last weeks were tough for all of us, but you supported me all this time,” he looked at Madara with fondness.
“Don’t mention it, I know you would do the same for me,” Madara smiled at him fondly. Hashirama stood up and hugged him. After a moment, Madara relaxed and returned the gesture.
He withdrew just slightly after a little while, to look Madara in the eye again. Then his glance jumped to the Uchiha’s lips, in an obvious, if unspoken question. Madara smiled, and didn’t seem to mind it this time when Hashirama closed the little distance that was still between them. When Hashirama lay a gentle palm against his cheek, he leaned into the touch.
If a heart could melt, mine would definitely melt, Hashirama thought.
He felt Madara smile against his lips and he considered that a silent permission. He pressed their mouths together in an affectionate kiss - a new, but welcomed experience for Madara.
He embraced Hashirama tighter and let him lead the kiss. It was slow and innocent, but it was more than enough for Madara to feel a pleasant tingling run down his spine.
They parted when they heard footsteps outside, but whoever it was, they just walked past the door, never bothering them.
Madara’s face was flushed and he looked happier than Hashirama could recall ever seeing him. He caressed his chin lovingly and kissed him again.
“It took a bit of work to get us here,” Tobirama admitted, not looking ashamed in the least. “I knew Hashirama had a crush on you, and Hashirama knew I had a crush on Izuna, so we decided to help each other out with creating opportunities. That bar near the Uchiha district, leaving after meetings - we wanted to have a chance to talk to you in private. It just didn’t work without deliberate planning.”
“And people say the Uchiha are devious…” Izuna looked at Madara, “You know, after all your scheming, I have to say one can't trust the Senju brothers,” both he and Madara laughed at that. They weren’t angry at Hashirama and Tobirama, not when their little sneaky plan brought happiness to all four of them.
They were sitting by the river and Hashirama could feel Madara’s gaze on him almost all the time, which made him pleasantly warm inside. Izuna and Tobirama sat closer than ever, arguing about the best way to prepare fishes they catched just a few minutes ago.
“Let’s just have it the same way we did the other time. I never had a tastier meal than the way you prepared the fish for me.” Tobirama said to Izuna. Madara remembered his brother’s cookbook. He smirked at Izuna. Just curious , indeed. Izuna perfectly knew what his brother meant by that look, so he smiled and winked at him.
Madara took Hashirama’s hand in his. His friend looked at him with love in his eyes.
The four of them were at peace, getting on better than Madara would have ever dared to hope. The village was prospering and peace between them and the other shinobi clans were within arm’s reach.
He couldn’t have been happier than he was at that moment.