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Tobirama could hardly remember a time before his stepmother and Hashirama. When father was still alive and the house was full of laughter and love, real love. He could still see his mother standing on the balcony, the soft white fur she always wore draped around her shoulders as the crashing waves created music in the background, father beside her as they spoke softly about something he could not remember or hope to understand. Now, it was just the too wide smiles and painful grasping hugs from his Anija, or the calculating looks of disgust from his stepmother, Haruki; the hateful words she would spew when it was just the two of them. Some days he thought Hashirama might like him, when he would demand his presence at the dinner table and show him off to whatever new visitor he had coerced through the doors. It always quickly faded. Hashirama thought of him as little more than a pet, parading him around as his simple and sickly guest they kept around out of the goodness of their hearts, no mention that the house was technically Tobirama’s. Tobirama hated when Hashirama would bring people over, the looks he and his stepmother would give them as they picked over their meals. Those nights he would swear he could hear screams echoing down the grand staircase, invading his hiding place close to the kitchen fires.
Tobirama would think of those past days fondly, the whispers of the time with his mother, the stretches with just his father doing the best he could, and the one shining year after father had remarried and he held hope for a brother that he could play with, run wild along the rolling shore as the surf tickled their toes. But his stepmother hated the sea, and forbade Hashirama from spending time with him, leaving them to grow apart. The year Tobirama turned twelve, father left, called to war by the Uchiha Emperor and never seen again. His stepmother and brother had been gone at the time, away on a trip to visit her family when the news came. No one around but the few servants kept to help him as his world fell apart. Mere hours after the messenger left, Kouki, the Steward, came to him, carrying a mid sized chest.
“Tobirama-san,” He refused to leave him be, even at his insistence, “This is important, young master.” After drying his tears away and gesturing the man forward, he settled the chest beside Tobirama on the bed. “You are still much too young to be given this, but I see no other way forward after the circumstances. I do not trust the new mistress to do right by you. The real mistress, your mother, wanted you to have this when you were ready, old enough, to understand.”
Confused, Tobirama opened the box, finding a luxuriously soft pelt inside, the white gleaming in the candle light with a pearly glow. “What is this?” He tugged the fur from the box, marveling as it glided out and into his lap. It felt cool to the touch, like a river of spring melt coming down from the mountains and flowing into the sea. As soon as he touched the pelt it felt as if something he had been missing silently slid into place, his very soul sighing in relief.
“This is yours. It will allow you to return to the sea if you wish, when you are a little older. Your mother wanted you to wait until you were at least 18 to decide if you wanted to live in the sea or on land.”
Tobirama froze at those words, hands stilling where they had been stroking the soft fur. ‘In the sea or on land.’ The words rang like a bell in his mind, a memory of his mother becoming clearer. He was very small, curled on his parents bed and rubbing his face in his mothers cloak she had spread on the bed. A cloak that looked a lot like the fur pooled in his lap, the same one she had been buried at sea with.
“Your parents worried for you young master, your mother most of all. They wanted you to find ‘a great love’ just as they did. I do not know why your father married the new mistress. I can only guess at his reasoning, and now that he is gone we will never know the truth. But with him gone, this is far too vulnerable to be left for her to get her hands on. She could control you with this, or kill you.” Tobirama looked at Kouki in alarm. “You must find a place to hide it, somewhere she, or that son of hers, will not think to look.”
“Why are you telling me this now? Why did mother trust you with this?”
“I followed your mother here from the water, swearing to stay by her side and protect her. When she fell ill, I promised to stay for you, to watch you until you could make the choice. Now, I am afraid, I will not be allowed to stay. The new mistress is a cruel and jealous woman, the fae folk are her enemies and she fears the waters, you must be cautious around her. Much of what you know will change.” The older man sat beside him on the bed, not saying anything more as he thought over what the information meant, what it meant about his mothers past and his future.
“You said you followed her here. But you do not have a pelt?”
Kouki smiled a little sadly, eyes going distant as if reliving a memory. “Your mother and I were young when we met. Well before she met Butsuma and chose to live on land. She shed her skin and came ashore at an estuary of a river delta, I traveled from my own home in the river to play in some of the pools carved into the earth, a place where salt and fresh water meet. We became friends, meeting often over the years. She brought your father to meet me, tall and of noble bearing with hair the color of tree bark. I questioned her, why she would choose a man that smelled of earth instead of finding someone of the sea. And I knew it had been a choice for she still wore her skin around her neck. She loved him, and he loved her. I made my own choice, to follow her ashore and protect them both if I could.” He looked at Tobirama, studying his face, “You have her coloring, a true pearl, but that nose is all Butsuma.” Tobirama couldn’t help the small laugh that escaped, his fathers nose had been broken three times and terribly crooked, they looked nothing alike. “Young master, should I leave this place, you need only look for me at the river. Follow the song of water flowing over stones. I will help you where I can.”
Kouki had been right, he had left shortly after Haruki and Hashirama returned. Her true colors shine through forcing Tobirama to flee for the basement kitchens carved into the cliffs below the manor house and the roaring fires always left burning in the great hearths. A small alcove that was carved for the dry storage of grains became his home. His fur was far too noticeable to keep with him, much to his displeasure, and stayed packed away in the chest behind various dry goods.
Tobirama settled best he could into his new role, ignoring the pain of loss and feeling of loneliness as more and more of the servants around the seaside manor left. After Haruki returned from visiting her family, she brought a new ladies maid. A pale, sickly looking young girl Tobirama was sure he had seen wandering the halls late at night, counting under her breath. The maid rarely spoke, even if giving him something directly. He wasn’t sure if it was a relief or unsettling.
“Tobi!” Tobirama braced for impact as Hashirama threw himself at him, strong arms curling around him and crushing him into Hashirama’s chest. “I always miss you when we are away. I hope you did not get too lonely in this big old house all alone.” Hashirama pushed Tobirama back, frowning down at him, “You did miss me didn’t you?”
Tobirama felt the small smile tug at his lips, “Of course I missed you.” He couldn’t help but be fond of his stepbrother. Through all of Haruki’s attempts to keep them apart, Hashirama still held a smile just for Tobirama.
“That’s enough Hashirama.” Hashirama stepped back immediately at Haruki’s words, eyes going a little vacant as his hands slid from Tobirama’s arms. “Go help our guest settle in.” They both watched as Hashirama walked away in silence, Tobirama steeling himself for whatever it was that the vile woman wanted this time. “I think you have grown a little since we have been away, Tobirama, Not quite so scrawny anymore. How old are you now, 15?”
“17 stepmother, my birthday passed by right before your return.”
“My my, that old already?” Her head tilted slightly, dark eyes narrowing as she gazed at him. Tobirama could feel a slight pressure on his mind but pushed it away. He hated the migraines he would get anytime he was forced to interact with her. “Hmm…” She stepped closer, a sharp red nail nudging his chin side to side as she inspected him. “Not a bad looking young man, perhaps a little too thin still, but that is easily remedied.”
“Stepmother?” This was more attention than Tobirama had received from Haruki since father brought her home.
“It is time you start thinking of your future, Tobirama. Perhaps find a trade. Mayhaps a wife.” She patted his face before turning away, mind already moving onto other things. “We will have a guest for dinner, please make sure the cook knows.”
“Of course, stepmother.” Tobirama bowed slightly, even if she couldn’t see, before hurrying away. The seemingly offhand remarks made him uncomfortable and that much more determined to leave as soon as his next birthday passed.
Tobirama found Nari grumbling over the stove, glaring down into the kettle as if the very rice had offended him. “Does it keep sticking?” Tobirama couldn’t help the small laugh as the old cook jumped, cursing as he glared at Tobirama.
“I swear that woman is a curse. Everytime she returns it is as if a dark cloud descends on the house.”
Tobirama pressed his lips together, not voicing his agreement. It would not do him any favors if he was somehow overheard. “She has brought another guest from her journey.”
Nari paused in his stirring for only a breath before resuming his steady pace. “Another guest. They come in the evenings and are gone by dawn.” The old cook bowed his head, eyes closing for a few stirs before he turned his head enough to look at Tobirama. “I will make them a meal to remember.”
Tobirama was not sure what to say to that, leaving the cook to his preparations.
………………………………
Madara hated this feeling. The bitter disappointment in himself and anger at being thwarted once again. He looked down at the body his cousin was inspecting, the telltale bite marks and complete lack of blood on scene telling him exactly what killed the man. The vampire was still alive, still killing, still eluding them. And he was failing at the one thing his family was supposed to do, protect the people of the realm from monsters like this. The ones that couldn’t live peacefully with their human neighbors. The ones that saw killing as sport, a night of fun. He wanted to curse again as his cousin rose, grabbing the sheet to re-cover the man as they waited on someone to bring the stretcher.
“Same as the others, just as we feared.”
“At least it’s still only one. Means they have not brought or turned any others in the territory.”
“It’s odd don’t you think?” Madara gave Hikaku a questioning look. “It’s just, it’s been several years now. Last time we dealt with a lone vampire entering our territory they escalated quickly. Turning people and attempting to start a coven, this one has not done so. We haven’t even had any reports of suspected sightings. Just a dead body turning up in the morning and people silently panicking.”
Hikaku was right, as he always was. It was odd for a vampire to remain so solitary. “Do you think someone is harboring it? They tend towards family groups, maybe someone had a relative turned and is keeping it secret?”
“A possibility. If that is the case we will have to broaden our search. If it is a family with a turned member, I would think it to be within the nobility. Someone of the working class would have difficulty hiding a vampire within their family.”
Both men sighed in frustration as they looked down at the covered body. Madara vowed he would find this vampire, and end them.
“Brother!” Madara smiled as Izuna came barreling down the steps of their home.
“Izuna! I did not know you had returned home. How did you find the Citadel?”
“Fine I suppose, learned a lot.” Izuna tugged Madara back up the stairs and into their home. “Father told me you were away on an investigation. Something in the village?”
Madara sighed, “Yes, another body.”
“Like the ones you wrote me about?”
“Exactly the same. Hikaku and I have a few theories, but we need to speak to father about them first.”
“I made a point to look into vampires while I was in the great library, I couldn’t find anything about lone vampires. They are considered social creatures that eventually seek out some sort of companionship.”
“The covens. Yes, we thought it strange this one seems to be acting alone, and for so long. The killings have been going on for several years now.”
“It’s strange though,” Madara looked at Izuna in question, “It’s just…the victims themselves.”
“What about them?”
“From what I’ve read, they have all been of at least the minor nobility or come from a lordship. But they are all foreign.”
Madara stopped a few places ahead of Izuna, turning to look back with growing horror. “Izuna?”
“I think, whoever this vampire is, is bringing their food home, from elsewhere. Not a single death has been of anyone local. All have come from at least a neighboring kingdom.”
“This could cause problems with our foreign relations. If the other kingdoms think we are luring away their lords and murdering them…”
“We could catch the blame. Especially since we have yet to find them.”
This was worse than Madara first thought. The vampire had to be living within their realm. And close. The bodies were all fresh kills, drained of their blood the night before and left for the Uchiha to find in the morning. Almost a taunt or a threat. What could they possibly be trying to do?
“This is concerning news.” Madara was relieved that his father at least agreed. Trying and failing at not slouching where he stood before his fathers massive desk. “How have we not noticed the pattern before? And what could a lone vampire possibly gain from provoking a war?”
“Vampires have never been very welcome within our realm.”
“They are not welcome in many realms at all. I think only one, and their king is a vampire. Even he is not overly fond of his own kind, but they have found ways to work around murder for food.”
“Should we contact him? If this is a lone vampire, he might have insight on how to proceed.”
“Possible. I will send a hawk. Until then, we can only double the guard.”
Madara gave his father a short bow before retiring to his rooms. Sighing in exhaustion as he finally slipped into a bath. They had no leads and very little information. What good was their goddesses' blessings if they couldn’t even find the vampire. He didn’t think an increase in the guard would do any good, but it was a visible reaction to the murders, something the people could see and feel secure that their king was looking out for them.
Almost a week later Madara found himself back in his fathers study, a delicate parchment with red ink clutched in his fathers hands. “I have received a reply from Lord Hyūga. He had much insight on our current issue and a few suggestions we can try and lure them out with.” Tajima looked up at where Madara stood, “They all pose a risk, some greater than others.”
“Do you think they will succeed?”
“Yes. To some degree. Some I think are more promising, some I think will give us more information if not the creature's identity. All I think are worth pursuing.”
“What do you need me to do?”
……………………………………
“A ball?” Tobirama tried not to show his interest as he listened to the dinner conversation, Hashirama was overly excited enough for the both of them.
“Yes my little leaf, a ball. One thrown by the Uchiha family in celebration of their prince's 21st birthday. We received the invitation just this morning.” Haruki smiled wide, teeth gleaming strangely in the soft evening light allowed to filter through the curtains. “We will need to do much in preparation for this, opportunity. Hashirama, darling, you will need something fresh to wear. Something a little more alive.” Dark eyes took in the wilting form of Hashirama before moving on, freezing Tobirama in place before he could think of a reason to excuse himself. “Your brother will help you of course. I am afraid I will not be able to accompany you into town. The summer sun is much too harsh after all, what with my delicate disposition.”
Tobirama swallowed his mouthful of grilled fish down, letting his eyes slide to his stepmother's chin as he felt the headache building. “Of course stepmother, I will be glad to help my Anija with whatever he needs.”
“Of course…” She sipped slowly from her large golden goblet, food on her plate untouched as always. “Such a dutiful son.”
Shopping with Hashirama was an event Tobirama wished to never repeat. Attempting to keep up with his towering brother flitting from shop to stall, wanting to touch everything while greeting the proprietors loudly and enthusiastically. “What does she even mean Tobi? Something alive. Do you think she meant the color? Or how it hangs? Maybe I should try a different cut.” Tobirama watched as he tugged a bolt of dark green cloth from the bottom of a pile, somehow not knocking the entire ensemble over in the process. “Maybe green? I like green.”
“Maybe.” Tobirama was just as unsure about the vague instructions, his mind going to the reds and blacks Haruki favored over Hashirama’s browns and cream and Tobirama’s own blues. “You do tend to wear a lot of brown, unless you are traveling, then you add red.” Tobirama reached out, running his hand over the fabric Hashirama still held and feeling the soft texture that didn’t catch on his calluses. “This would make a nice outfit, maybe pair it with a dark orange or yellow for some added color? The ball is at the end of summer so picking up an Autumn color shouldn’t be too strange.”
Hashirama hummed quietly, still rubbing the fabric between his fingers and eyes going a bit distant. “What will you wear, Tobi?”
Tobirama blinked in surprise. “I’m not sure I will go Anija, I will not yet be of age.”
“What? What does that matter? This will be a once in a lifetime event Tobi, you have to go!”
Tobirama could only sigh as Hashirama geared up for a long speech about youth and living a full life, “We can ask stepmother what she thinks later Anija.” Truly, he had no intention of asking. She would refuse and that would be the end of it. He would remain home, possibly pull out his pelt. He had not dared to try it on yet, even with Haruki gone, he would simply hold it in his lap, hands gliding across the smooth fur.
Tobirama did not truly expect Hashirama to say anything to Haruki. He thought his excitable older brother would forget as soon as he became distracted with preparations for his own outfit.
“Tobirama,” He froze, trying not to show his surprise at being sought out. Fear crawled up his spine as he stood in the kitchens, so close to where he kept his things hidden in the back. Where he slept, curled in his nest of blankets, the bed in his ‘room’ only for show. “I am forever finding you in the kitchens. One might mistake you for the help.” She ran a clawed nail down one of the beams, face turned towards the roaring hearth, dark eyes taking in his form from the side through half lowered lashes.
“I…find it warm here, stepmother. My rooms, grow drafty, in the fall until summer comes again. And I enjoy the company, while you and my brother are gone.”
“Yes…I suppose the house does grow empty without us.” She turned away from the fire, face becoming shadowed. His skin prickled and a headache began to grow behind his eyes. “I came to tell you the unfortunate news. You will not be able to join us at the ball, my dear Tobirama. 17 is far too young. Though I will keep an eye out for any promising prospects for you.”
“Of course, stepmother. I did not truly expect to go.”
“Of course…” She tilted her head, eyes catching the light in a strange way, as if they were absorbing instead of reflecting. “I still expect you to help with preparations. I so look forward to the ball. This is one invitation I did not expect.” She gave another small secretive smile before turning and leaving the kitchens.
Tobirama took in a deep breath, feeling his chest relax as the light seemed to return to the room, the fire finally able to reach the corners once again. He turned at a scuffing noise, Nari peeking around a stack of barrels.
“What was she doing here!? Bringing bad luck to my kitchen like that,the rice will stick for a week now!”
“I am not allowed to attend the ball, apparently.”
“Pah! That woman has no say in such things. I heard of the ball from the village, all are invited no matter the age. From young to old.” Nari narrowed his eyes, taking in Tobirama from head to toe. “Something is not right with that woman. I think…I think you should be going.”
“What?”
“The ball, little Tobi, I think you should be going.”
“But Nari I-”
“No. You will go. Nari will help. But you must find Kouki first. We will need his help most of all.”
“Kouki…” Tobirama had not seen the old Steward in several years now. Not able to find him the few times he managed to make it to the river. He could never hear the music he spoke of. “I’m not sure I will find him.”
“You will.”
“How can you be so sure?”
“Because, you have need of him now. He will know, he will come. His kind is like that.”
Tobirama wasn’t so sure but decided to keep it to himself for now. It wouldn’t be any trouble to go to the river again.
He was there. Tobirama stood just inside the tree line, looking down at the river where Kouki stood. He was there. After all these years and attempts to find him. The old Steward turned, eyes reflecting the full moon. Tobirama slipped from the trees, joining him at the river's edge. “Why now? After all this time? I looked for you often.”
“Because you did not need me, not really.” Kouki sighed as he looked back at the river, “I fear things are escalating, I hear tales of the Uchiha and their anger over something happening within the kingdom. This ball is not a lavish birthday party, but a trap.”
“A trap? Then why is it so important that I go? Should I not avoid it at all cost?”
“The trap is not for you my little pearl, but for her.”
“Her…?” He asked, even though he felt he already knew the answer deep in his heart.
“Haruki is playing her hand, and the Uchiha are noticing.” Those green eyes seemed to hold Tobirama captive as all the little pieces began falling into place. Every inconsistency he noticed, every time she left to visit relatives, the people she would bring home for a night never to be seen again.
“I think I understand. But what… Kouki-san, what is she?”
“That, I’m afraid, I cannot tell you. Her magic is cunning to hold even my tongue. You must uncover her true nature for yourself, Tobirama. See what it is she hides. You must also decide if you wish to stay long enough to do so. You will soon be old enough to leave. Leave her and that strange son of hers behind. No longer your problem.
Tobirama considered it, if he wanted to put forth the effort. Kouki was right, as soon as he turned 18 he could cover himself in his skin and leave for what waited below the waves. No longer his problem. Except…except she was. He thought of his father. Butsuma wasting away before leaving for the war. If war had not killed him, he suspected she would have. He also couldn’t get Hashirama out of his mind. Tobirama suspected Hashirama was not her son, not really. Enthralled by her as much as those that came to visit. Could he really leave his brother behind? “What do I need to do?”
Kouki smiled widely, razor sharp teeth glittering in the too wide mouth. “We make you invisible.”
……………………………………
Tobirama looked down in awe at the gilded ballroom, having never seen such wealth and splendor in his short life. He was glad now that he decided to come to the ball, let Kouki talk him into attending even with the dangers of being discovered should Haruki recognize him. He knows he should be watching her, looking for the small details that will give her away. Help expose her. But…he couldn’t help but let his gaze wander across the floor.
He leaned on the railing overlooking the great open space below, marveling at how everyone glided around each other in a complicated looking dance. He wished briefly that he had actually learned to dance when he had the chance, instead choosing to run off and play in the tides of the ocean as a child much to his mothers delight and his fathers frustration. It looked like a lovely way to spend an evening.
“Would you like to dance the next one with me?”
Tobirama jumped at the voice so close. Hand tightening over the clasp holding his skin in place as he turned to find a man looking around his age standing far too close for comfort, one hand placed one the railing as he looked at Tobirama intently. When the slight smile began dropping into a frown Tobirama realized he had remained quite too long, unused to anyone really speaking to him and expecting an answer.
“I’m afraid I would make for a terrible partner. I never learned.”
The smile turned into a smirk. “That all depends on who is leading, and if you can trust them enough to follow along.”
Tobirama felt his brows jump, wondering if he was reading too much into the words by his tone of voice. “Tell me then, should I trust a man when I don’t even know his name?”
“There is power in a name. But I am of Clan Uchiha if it helps your opinion of me.” The man leaned fully on the railing, head tilting in interest.
“I suppose it does. The ruling clan is one that should be trusted after all. I suppose you may call me Mizu.”
“Mizu, A clan name? I’ve not heard of a Mizu clan.”
“Not a clan name, but one that fits me well enough if you knew me.”
Madara looked thoughtful, “Then, I hope to one day know you enough to understand.”
Tobirama hated the small fluttery feeling he got from that, quickly turning away and looking down at the dancers. “I suppose, I will trust you enough for a single dance. We will see how it goes from there.”
The Uchiha man smiled softly and held out a gloved hand, gently taking Tobirama’s and guiding him down the grand staircase to the mass of dancers below. Both unaware of the image they made or how people stopped and stared. Madara in his expertly tailored black and red uniform, gold gleaming from his hair where pins held the mass away from his face. On his arm, a man just as elegantly dressed in dark blue and white, a clasp of silver holding a snowy cloak in place.
While there were many beautiful creatures in attendance, Madara was not ashamed to admit he was captivated by Mizu. He first caught sight of him as he entered the large ball room, a flash of white drawing his eyes. He had been unable to follow the younger man, stuck as he was with his father speaking to the Hyūga representatives. This mission was far more important. By the time he was free to roam he could not find him. Smile growing tighter every time he is forced to stop and once again be attentive to guests. This was, after all, supposed to be a party for him. It took half the night before he found him. White hair matching the fur fastened at his throat with a bright silvery pin. Even from this distance he could tell the pin was not truly silver, his blessed eyes picking up on the platinum and pearls. A creature then, most could not wear silver after all. The pearls he found interesting, perhaps a creature of water then instead of a fae. No matter, he would find out.
Madara wondered as the night went on how he had never met Mizu before. The man professed to being born in the kingdom, his home estate but a few hours' ride from the city. Madara knew the village, riding through it on more than one occasion, though usually on his way further out.
“We do not come into the city. My father is long gone and my stepmother only leaves to visit family.”
Madara found it a bit odd, but not alarmingly so. There were many that did not enjoy the city, sticking close to their estates. “I am glad you made the trip then. I cannot think of how this night would have gone without such an enchanting vision upon my arm. Mizu suits you, you flow like water across the floor. Are you sure you have never danced before?”
The blush that dusted Mizu’s cheeks was adorable, “I promise I speak only the truth. I was not attentive in my lessons growing up and never learned to dance. I think, however, you were correct. Having an adept partner I can trust makes all the difference. Madara felt his cheeks pulling as he smiled wide, guiding Mizu around the room into another dance. He hoped his father would not be angry that he was ignoring his duty.
Tobirama was afraid he would not be able to get away. As beautiful as the Uchiha was, and as lovely as the dancing was, he could not stay. He could not risk Haruki returning home and not being there. He had never been on the receiving end of her anger, and he did not wish to ever find out what she was like in her wrath. He was risking enough by simply letting the Uchiha guide him through intricate steps past where she seemed to be holding a small group enthralled.
He had not once lost sight of her. A group growing by ones and twos as the night grew late and the wine flowed freely. He allowed himself to indulge in a glass the Uchiha brought him after one of the faster paced reels, his heart threatening to flutter right out of his chest. He expected a guest would follow her home.
“I cannot stay any longer, my Lord Uchiha.” He tried not to let the frown dissuade him. “I’m afraid the hour grows late and I need to return home.” The pout that formed on Uchiha's face was adorable, though he would probably not like to hear that. Tobirama could tell he must be a warrior, the muscle he could feel solid and powerful.
Uchiha guided him out one of the side doors and to a semi-private balcony, the main room obscured by flowing muslin curtains dyed a deep indigo. “Will I see you again Mizu? My heart aches at the thought of this being our only meeting.”
Tobirama found his own chest aching at never seeing this man again. He wondered if this was how his mother felt, drawn to his father and away from the sea. A soul divided. Before he could give it any thought, Tobirama quickly unclasped the pin under his chin, holding his cloak closed in a tight fist now that the cool metal was no longer there. “This was a gift. Given to me by a very close family friend. I seem to have lost it and will look for its return.”
Uchiha looked at the pin, understanding flashing in his eyes as his fingers closed around it delicately. “I will look for it in earnest. How will I reach you to let you know it has been found?”
“There is a curious fountain in my village. I like to go there every three days when the sun reaches its peak. I visited it today.”
“Three days.” Uchiha gently grasped Tobirama’s free hand, bringing it to his lips and a whisper of a kiss before letting it go and stepping back. “I look forward to seeing this fountain.”
……………
Madara studied his breakfast closely as he ate, ignoring the eyes burning into him from every direction around the table. His father clearing his throat had him sighing and reaching for his tea, surprised the quiet lasted long enough for him to finish eating.
“Should I call the royal tailor for wedding clothes?”
Madara choked on his tea, sputtering and coughing as his siblings snickered. “It’s nothing like that!” His face flamed at his fathers unimpressed look.
“You spent almost the entire night dancing with that young man, unable to tear your gaze away. You are either besotted or under a spell. So, which is it?”
Madara sighed, slouching into his seat, mind going to mesmerizing red eyes and snowy white hair. “I do plan to see him again.” Madara pulled the pin from his pocket, having slipped it there after dressing just that morning. He intended to carry it with him until he returned it. “He lent me this as an excuse.” Madara resisted the urge to snatch it back when his father reached over and plucked it from his hand.
“Platinum,” Tajima exclaimed with surprise.
“And Pearls. There are sapphire chips as well. He claimed it was a gift.”
“Either he or the one that gifted it are not human then. This, is very finally made.” Madara let his fingers curl back around it as Tajima handed it over. “So you have fallen for a fae. I hope you knew better than to give him your name.”
“Of course I didn’t give him my name! But I didn’t get his either. He called himself Mizu.”
“Mizu…a water spirit perhaps. Either way, not part of our objective for the night.”
Madara cringed at the reminder. “Did anyone ese have any luck?” He knows he failed at the mission, but can’t bring himself to feel bad about it.
“Hikaku thinks he has a lead. There were more than a few new faces last night, ones never seen in court before though they claimed to be landed gentry or better. He compiled a list that we will begin working our way through. I suggest you speak to your cousin before flouncing off to find your water spirit.”
“...I don’t flounce…” Madara muttered into what remained of his tea, ignoring Izuna’s uncontrolled laughter beside him.
Tobirama fiddled with the wooden toggles keeping his shirt closed, an ugly green thing Kouki wrangled him into before leaving. He could feel the slight thrum of power emanating from the tiny stitches around the sleeves and collar, a protection spell left by steady hands.
“Mizu?” His head jerked up, eyes finding the Uchiha standing only a few paces away.
Tobirama slid off the lip of the fountain, closing the distance between them. “You came.”
“I seem to remember you lamenting the loss of an important pin, one that was a gift.” Tobirama let his eyes flick down to the glittering ornament held in the Uchiha’s hand, sitting delicately in a silken handkerchief.
He gently took the pin, slipping it into the lapel of his shirt and closing it tightly before turning back to where the Uchiha stood, dark eyes watching his every moment intently. “Thank you, Uchiha, for its safe return.” He forced his gaze away, letting it settle on the fountain. “Have you ever visited this fountain before? It has quite an interesting story.”
Madara finally tore his eyes away, looking at the fountain properly for the first time. It was quite a large fountain, high sides with thick edges perfect for sitting. The center was the most interesting part, two figures seeming to dance around each other. Water bubbling out of their hands and down. “I’ve not had the pleasure before, I do not usually stop here on my way out.”
“Not surprising with your home being so close.”
“Will you tell me the story? I find myself curious.”
Tobirama grinned, cutting his eyes over at the Uchiha. “I learned the tale many years ago from a family friend. This village partially falls under the purview of my family lands; this fountain came into being shortly after the union of my parents.” Tobirama kept his gaze firmly on the Uchiha’s face as he continued his story, interested in how he would react. “My father fell in love with a selkie, wooing her until she trusted him with her pelt, which he promptly returned, sealing their fate.”
Madara looked at the fountain with wide eyes, the shapes of the man and woman dancing in the water making his heart flutter even as his mind whirled with information. The name Mizu suddenly made sense, as he said it would. Born from the love between a human man and a creature of the sea. He let his eyes flicker back to where Mizu stood still beside him, black eyes meeting red. “You did not return to the sea when they died?”
Tobirama smiled a little sadly, “Father married only a few years after her passing, he died in the last war. I was still far too young to venture out on my own. I will not make my final choice until I reach my 18th birthday at the end of winter.”
Madara chewed his lip, mind racing on the short amount of time they had “That is not far away.”
“Yes…not long now.” He let his gaze once again find the figures of his parents dancing forever in stone. “Though now, I wonder what I will choose.”
Madara let Mizu show him around the village for the few hours they had available. Watching and memorizing every single thing about the young man, from the off hand comments to the way his eyes would crinkle in mirth. He wondered if he could convince him to stay, as Mizu’s father had with his mother.
“The hour grows late, I need to return home before I am missed at dinner.”
“Would your stepmother fuss that much about one missed meal?” Madara didn't like the way Tobirama’s eyes tightened.
“It is about more than the meal. She enjoys control, among other things. And there will most likely be another guest tonight, as there has been the last several nights.”
“I did not know I was keeping you from your guests.” Madara stopped in his slow walk when he realized Mizu stopped, turning back and finding an odd look on the other man's face, almost conflicted.
Madara could see as Mizu came to some sort of decision, though it looked to be costing him by the pained, pinched look on his face “You are not. It is always someone new, and only ever for dinner.”
Madara felt something cold drip down his spine at the look, he could feel that Mizu was trying to tell him something. “And what sort of guests come only for a meal and then leave?”
“Last night's guest was one she met at the ball. A young man with dark hair and eyes and a rearing ram as his sigil. He was gone by morning, as they all are.”
A rearing ram, most likely matching the one found on the bloodless body found just this morning. “What are you trying to tell me Mizu?”
Tobirama stood silently for a long while, words tumbling through his mind and refusing to leave his lips, whatever power Haruki had still holding him. “What I can.” He held his Uchiha’s eyes, willing him to understand the seriousness of the situation.
Slowly, Madara nodded, “I think I understand. If you are able, I will meet you again, here. Though not in three days' time, perhaps it is best if we wait. I have a feeling this woman will grow suspicious.”
“Yes. We should wait.” Tobirama finally broke eye contact with Uchiha, looking up to the brilliant reds and oranges filling the slowly darkening sky. “I will look for you when I come, hopefully I will have more to tell you.”
Madara watched Mizu walk away, the pale man vanishing into the evening.
Madara picked at his food, mind stuck on Mizu and all he learned. If what he said was true, then the vampire they were looking for had been under their noses for far longer than they thought. It had not been difficult to find the relevant records in the archives, the young lord that married a selkie woman. The union was blessed by his own grandfather not long before the man stepped down and handed things over to Tajima. The war was another matter altogether. The werewolf uprising still gave him nightmares.
“Madara, if you stare at that chicken long enough I think it will burst into flames. What is troubling you? Did your meeting not go well?”
Madara set his fork down gently before looking up, “It went better than expected, actually.”
“So do I need to call for the tailor after all?”
Madara rolled his eyes, letting a small smile grace his lips before dropping into something serious. “Mizu was pleasant company and we have promised to meet again, though not for a while. He gave me some information that still needs looking into. Information about our vampire.”
Tajima sat up, glass settling back on the table. “He knows of the vampire?”
“Intimately, it is posing as his stepmother. She somehow ensnared his father into a marriage and still lives in the manor long after his death under the pretense of raising his son. Mizu claims he will not turn 18 until the end of winter, so it makes sense that he has not been noticed before.”
“The Lady favors you with fortune, my son. She led you to the one person that could help us. After dinner, you will tell me everything you have found.”
It had been nine days since Madara saw Mizu. Mind never straying far from the man even with him out of sight. He hoped he was safe. Living as he was in that place with that woman. There was not much more he could learn on his own. Little was known of the family after Mizu’s father, Butsuma, remarried. His father had stared long at the name before silently tucking the files back into the folder.
Tobirama sat on the edge of the fountain again, hand trailing in the cold water of the fountain and eyes gazing up at the faces of his parents. He wondered if he would be able to tell him more, or if his words were still bound. Kouki and Nari had been more than helpful in feeling out the foreign magics swirling in his system.
“Your blood is of the waters my little pearl, she has difficulty casting any of her magics on you, but there is still some to throw off. Hopefully your little sun lord appreciates the efforts.” Nari laughed at Tobirama’s red face while Kouki grinned widely, sharp teeth gleaming strangely in the firelight of the kitchen.
“Mizu.” The red eyed gaze looked towards his voice, meeting his eyes fearlessly, a small smile pulling his lips up. Madara felt his heart skipping before forcefully settling it. Unfortunately business would need to come first.
“You’re back. I’m glad to see you again, Uchiha.” Tobirama finally pulled his hand from the cool water, flicking droplets off his fingers with a sharp snap on his wrist. “Were you able to find anything?”
“Not as much as I would have liked. Father and I found the relevant records in the archives that corroborated your story.” Mizu nodded as if he expected that, “The interesting part is that your father was reported as MIA, not KIA. His body was never found. He was last seen by my own father when Butsuma stepped between him and a rampaging werewolf.”
Mizu stilled, eyes widening in surprise, “I never knew what truly happened to him. A messenger came and simply told me he was gone. My stepmother was not home at the time. Things changed quickly after her return.” He rose slowly from the rim of the fountain, eyes going far away as he clearly thought about something. “Would you be up for a short walk? There is someone who has requested a meeting, a friend.”
Madara considered the question. It would be a risk to leave the village to meet with anyone. He did not doubt his chances should something come to a fight, but he had not exactly armed himself for one, carrying only a few knives instead of his sword. But this was Mizu, someone he felt he could trust. He could not place the origins of the almost blind trust, hoping it was not a spell with ill intent but his Goddess given intuition actually working. “How far exactly? And where?”
“To the river's edge, just inside the forest. The friend is the one that gave me the pin, he has been a part of my life since birth and I trust him. Though, you should probably not stand between him and the water.” The grin Mizu gave him was definitely mischievous. Madara grinned as he followed the white headed man down the main road and onto one of the side streets, heading out of town to meet the mysterious friend.
The identity of Mizu’s friend became immediately obvious. The music was the first clue, sweet sounds of a melodious brook accompanied by a flute. The being became visible as soon as they broke through the trees, the shape of a man standing knee deep in the river. Their back was turned to them, the lilting notes weaving among the ripple and rush of the water. It was almost hypnotic. Madara felt his eyes spin to life at the push of foreign magic, the identity of the creature becoming immediately obvious as his gift sliced cleanly through the concealing enchantments.
“A Nixie.” He glanced at Mizu, ignoring the whisps of magic surrounding the young man and taking in the startled look on his face, he realized they had not discussed his eyes before. He hoped he had not just scared him away.
Laughter from the river drew both of their attention away. “So you have brought your sunspot. Welcome to the river little sun lord.” The Nixie gave a shallow bow, flute vanishing as he stood back up and exited the water. “My pearl tells me you need help.”
“Your…pearl?” Madara glanced questioningly at Mizu.
“Indeed. He is the pearl left behind by his parents, one I treasure.” Strange eyes looked him up and down, taking in his whole form growing tenser as he drew closer. “I am not here to hurt you, Uchiha. I would not harm those my pearl holds dear. He has asked for help, nothing more.”
Madara straightened, trying to convince his muscles to relax. This was obviously the friend Tobirama spoke of, the one to give him the platinum pin. “Forgive me if I have offended, I was surprised to find a nixie.” Madara looked around, taking in the river clearing, “Though I suppose I shouldn’t be, considering we are at the river.” Madara let himself relax at the clearly amused laughter, red bleeding away from his eyes until they returned to his normal dark irises.
“At least he’s politer than your father was.” Mizu let himself be pulled into a one armed hug before peeling away and turning back to Madara.
“I guess I really shouldn’t be surprised. The records showed your mother was a selkie, it only makes sense you would be friends with another being of the waters.” Madara bowed to the nixie, “again, please forgive any rudeness.”
“A lot more polite than your father. I like him already, little pearl.” The small group returned to the edge of the forest, the nixie leading the way as he spoke lowly to Mizu until they came upon a small grouping of stones and settles in a loose circle to talk. “My pearl tells me you call him Mizu?”
Madara nodded, “That is the name he gave me at the ball. He simply calls me Uchiha.”
“Smart to not give names, though I really should expect that from an Uchiha. Unfortunately for you the names of the ruling family are well enough known that I already know who you are. In the nature of fairness and a show of trust, I shall tell you my name. I am Kouki, formally the Steward of House Senju.” The Nixie, Kouki, nodded his head at Madara. A sharp toothed smile splitting his face as if daring Madara to break his trust.
Madara felt the power of the statement. A name given in trust. He glanced quickly at Mizu, taking in the surprised look of the younger man before turning back to Kouki. “I am Madara, Crown Prince of House Uchiha.” He nodded his head in acknowledgment to the both of them. Wanting Kouki to know that his trust was not misplaced.
“I guess it’s silly to hide our names now, allies as we are, and maybe…” Mizu glanced at him before trailing off. He cleared his throat before continuing, Madara’s eyes lingering on the dusting of pink covering the younger man's face. “I am Tobirama of House Senju.”
“Good. Now that that is settled, we can talk about what has brought you both to the river.” Kouki clapped his hands, smile never leaving his face. “So, the stepmother. I have worked with Tobirama in breaking what magic she had on him, it was not much, but enough to be annoying. Vampires have a harder time ensnaring the minds of other creatures if they are of the water variety. The main reason I had to leave after your father died.”
“What about Nari?” Tobirama couldn’t help thinking of the cook.
“Nari is bound to the house. He is a yokai born in that kitchen before even your grandfather’s grandfather was born and will exist long after we are all gone. She dares not mess with things older than her. As long as he remains in that kitchen, she will never have full control of the house. But she dares not remove him so is at an impasse. For now, it benefits her to leave him alone.”
“I did not realise…”
“You wouldn’t have, Nari keeps that side of himself closely hidden. He is a very old yokai and has enjoyed relative peace.” Madara watched a thoughtful look settle on Tobirama’s face as they all settled back into silence. “Now then, your stepmother, she will be leaving soon for the north. The leaves are already changing. Do you plan to do something before she leaves or wait until her return?”
“She leaves? Regularly?”
Tobirama nodded, still looking thoughtful. “Yes, every year around the same time. She claims to be visiting family in the north for the winter holidays. She will go as the leaves begin to fall and not return until the spring thaw.”
Madara’s brows furrowed as he thought. It made a little more sense now that she was here alone if she spent half the year with her coven. But why leave during the winter months? He would have thought she would want to leave in the summer when the sun was at its peak. He quickly ran through all the holidays in his head until it dawned on him exactly which holiday she would be missing. “The New Year’s dedication to Amaterasu. Everyone participates, she would not be able to.”
Kouki hummed in agreement. “That makes sense. The streets are always full of the priestesses chanting from the sun sets until it rises again. Such a display could be dangerous for her. I had not thought of that before.”
Madara looked up at the trees, noting the riot of autumnal colors covering the limbs. “If she is to leave soon, I do not think there will be enough time to plan anything. It might be best to wait so we are not pressed for time and get sloppy.”
Now that there was the beginnings of a plan, things flowed smoothly between the three of them. Many more meetings would be necessary over the coming months, though the bulk of the planning would not be until the vampire left and their meetings would no longer have to be in secret.
Madara and Tobirama made their way slowly back to the center of the village where they would split at the fountain, returning to their own homes. “I’ll most likely be stuck in meeting over the next couple of weeks with my father and whoever needs to be brought in. I expect my cousin Hikaku to be part of the team put together so expect him at our next meeting.”
Tobirama nodded along, “I expect her to leave within the week. Hashirama has already begun moping as his energy levels drop.”
“Your brother, you have spoken of him several times. He came with her?”
“Ah, yes. If you met him it would be obvious that he is not her son, though I do not know where he truly came from. She has some control over him. It is obvious in the way he goes empty when she speaks to him. I hope there is a way to break them apart.”
“If there is, we will find it.”
………………………………………
Tobirama kept to his routine, even inviting Hashirama on his next outing into the village knowing there was no risk of running into Madara.
Madara. That was his name. He knew his Uchiha’s name now. He felt warm every time he thought about the older man. His mischievous grin crinkling the corners of dark eyes framed by wild black hair.
This was dangerous. These feelings. He thought about his choice, the one he would make on his next birthday. Tobirama chewed his lip as he followed Hashirama into town, he wondered if he would be able to make the choice when the time came.
“Tobi! Come look at this!” Tobirama smiled as he followed Hashirama to the small booth, looking over the woodcarvings appreciatively. They really were quite good. “What do you think Tobi? It would look good on the entrance table.” The bowl Hashirama held up for inspection would look good, with its delicate winter flowers carved around the outside while the inside held an inlaid spiral. Tobirama took it carefully from his hands for a closer look.
“This is very well made, the spiral is clean and even. The inlay is perfectly smooth with the inside of the bowl.”
“Thank you.” They both jumped a bit at the voice, the brothers looking up to find a lovely red headed woman grinning behind the table. Her hair was held in buns with tags holding a similar spiral found in the bowl. “That bowl was a fun project. It’s nice working with different woods and getting them to cooperate.”
Hashirama’s face seemed to light up, immediately beginning a conversation with the woman about all the different trees that she had worked with over the years, wanting to know everything. He only waved him on distractedly when Tobirama handed the bowl back over and told him he would continue on and see him later. The woman seemed harmless enough, which was all the more reason to pay attention to the hairs standing up on the back of his neck when she spoke. It had been a long time since one of the Fae Court made an appearance, not since before his mother died at the latest. Mito had not changed at all since he had seen her last. He knew Hashirama would come to no harm with her.
Hashirama could speak of nothing else the rest of the day. Haruki was not pleased if the way her hand tightened on her cup was any indication, though she never told him to quiet down, merely interrupting him mid sentence. “I did not realise it was so late in the season already. Time really has gotten away from me this year.” Hashirama looked a little confused, “Hashirama dear, make sure you are packed, we will leave in two days time to visit family. I do so long to see everyone again.” She rose gracefully, only pausing once at the door to look back at Tobirama, “Let cook know.”
“Yes, stepmother.”
“We will speak more when I return.”
“Of course.” She did not acknowledge him again.
Hashirama was clearly pouting as she swept out of the room. “It’s not late at all, the leaves haven't even started falling for real yet. Why would she want to go so soon?”
“I don’t know Anija, maybe she just wants to see her family?”
“Yeah…maybe.”
Tobirama had a suspicion it was truly about the fae in the Autumn market. Vampires and Fae did not get along, to have a member of the Fae Court in the market must have angered her. But with her technically in hiding there is nothing she can do except leave early or risk being discovered by them.
True to her word, Haruki packed herself and Hashirama up and left. The house growing still in their absence. He would make his way to the market in the morning to see if Madara had returned yet. He had not seen the man in a few weeks now. He wished there was a way to get a message to him. Any contact with Madara had been dangerous with Haruki still around, but now, he felt a sense of freedom, like he could finally relax. He wouldn’t have to stop his mind from wondering when it wanted to dwell on his dark eyes or the smile lines crinkling the corners of his mouth. Or if his hair was as soft as it looked. He wondered if Madara would let him touch it.
Tobirama suffered through two more trips to the market alone before Madara finally appeared. The older man leaning over him as he sat at the fountain, that silly smile on his face. Tobirama couldn’t help himself as he leapt up and wrapped his arms around him, relishing in the warmth radiating from him and chasing away the chill that settled in as Autumn drug on into winter. The gloved hands that settled around him had him almost melt at the touch.
“I’m glad to know I was missed.” The feminine giggle accompanying the comment made Tobirama freeze, glancing over Madara’s shoulder to find Mito standing a few paces behind him. Tobirama jerked away, ignoring Madara’s protests and taking a step back.
“You didn’t come alone.” Mito lowered her hands from her face, smile widening alarmingly.
Madara glanced over his shoulder, “Yes, father sent a message to the Uzumaki for their help with our vampire problem after I told him about your brother.”
“Was that him? The tree spirit with you at the market?”
“Tree…spirit?” Was she talking about Hashirama? “My brother, Hashirama, was with me. I don’t know what you mean about a tree spirit.”
She hummed as if finally understanding something. “The one you call brother is a tree spirit. A very old one going by his size and strength. The vampire's winter travels are beginning to make more sense. Hashirama most likely becomes lethargic during the winter months, he would need to return to where his tree is and rest.”
“Huh,” Madara looked a little concerned, “Is there a way to break her hold if we cannot access his tree?”
“As long as I can get one of my seals on him, it should be able to block her. After that, it’s up to him.”
“What…what happens after? If, if we are successful in stopping her. His tree is…” Tobirama didn’t want to think about his brother leaving.
“That’s up to him really. He can choose to return to his tree and grove, or will the tree to uproot and move. Though that can take time depending on how far it is.” She smiled gently at him, the too wide mouth softening into something closer to human looking. “In the meantime, I will show you the seal we plan to use and how to activate it.”
It did not take Tobirama long to learn how to activate the tags. Madara sat gamely while they stuck tags all over him, letting Tobirama practice activating them with a small spark of magic he had not even realized he possessed. He held the small stack of tags, looking at them and wondering again why. “Why him?”
“What do you mean?” Mito and Madara both looked at him for clarification.
“Why him, why Hashirama? Why a tree spirit?”
Mito hummed in understanding, “Any nature spirit is powerful. Hashirama’s tree must stand in a grove close to where she was born. If she can control him, she can corrupt him. The fact that he has lasted this long means he is very powerful, she wants that power. To control it, direct it. That is what we must stop.”
Tobirama felt sick. He could not let that happen.
Mito left them as soon as she was confident with Tobirama’s skill with the seals. Giving the two of them a wide smile and a wink before making her way back towards the market. Madara began to fidget as they were left alone, glancing up at Tobirama before looking back at his hands and tugging on his gloves. Tobirama let him stew as he carefully tucked the stack of tags away into a small pouch.
“Willyoucometodinnerwithme?”
“What?”
Madara’s face began to turn pink before he looked at the ground, letting his hair fall and cover it. “Will you come to dinner with me?” He glanced up just enough Tobirama could see one eye.
“You mean at your home? With your family?” Madara nodded, “I’m not exactly dressed for something like that.” In truth he was not mentally prepared for a meal with Madara’s family, but he didn’t want to say that as he brushed his hands down the front of his clothes.
“Right, of course. Maybe next time? Three days from now? When you usually come to the village you can come to dinner with me that night.”
“Yes.” Tobirama answered without letting himself overthink. “I will come to dinner in three days.” Madara’s eyes widened, but Tobirama decided it would be best if they ended things for the day. “I will see you then.” He turned quickly and all but fled home.
Nari laughed when he told him what happened.
……………………………………
Tobirama waited by the fountain, hand clutching his fur clasped around his neck as he waited. He pulled it out that morning and debated on if he should even bring it, but it felt right having it there. As if he would be incomplete without it. He wondered what Madara would think, he had not seen his fur since the ball. And he had not known what it truly was back then. Tobirama had used the three days to really think about Madara and what he wanted and what this would mean for the choice he would make. He thought about his parents. Their love story held in his mind like an example of what could be. He would give Madara the same choice, present him with the one thing that could control him and see if these growing feelings were real. Or if his trust was misplaced.
Madara could only think of Tobirama in the three days leading up to the dinner. Tajima had been pleased when he told him that Tobirama agreed to join them for the meal. Expressing his interest in meeting the young Senju. His siblings were a mix of teasing and exasperated at his erratic fretting. Interested in meeting Tobirama, but also ready for the dinner to be over so Madara would chill out.
When the morning of the meeting finally dawned Madara was up and out the door before breakfast, he ended up waiting around the fountain until nearly noon. The villagers giving him strange looks as he sat and waited impatiently.
When Tobirama finally appeared Madara felt his breath catch. He was wearing the same fur that graced his figure at the ball. Madara now understands that it must be his selkie skin.
The dinner was thankfully a success after the quiet walk home. Tajima easily kept the conversation flowing where Madara floundered for topics, his siblings were even on their best behavior.
Tobirama relaxed as the night carried on. It was not until the meal ended and his family bid them a goodnight did his nerves spike again, Tobirama looking at him expectantly where they stood by the large fireplace in the dining room, the flames casting the younger man in a warm glow.
“I, uh, was wondering…”
“Yes?”
Madara took a breath, trying not to mumble his way through, “It’s late, would you stay for the night?” The smile that bloomed on Tobirama’s face as he agreed made Madara’s heart soar. He tried his best not to stumble as Tobirama followed him to his rooms.
Tobirama woke slow and warm. The dark stone of the walls throwing him for only a moment. He was still with Madara. The surprised and awed look on the man's face when Tobirama had handed over his fur still filling his mind's eye seconds before Madara draped it back over Tobirama’s shoulders. Telling him he had no interest in controlling him, and that he did not need to give him his fur to prove his devotion. Madara spent the entire night showing Tobirama his love for him.
He felt warm all over. Knowing that Madara’s love was true and pure as his parents had been. He would stay. He’s sure Kouki will be a little disappointed, but he will understand. They spent their time talking about everything. Childhood stories and visions for the future.
The weeks of winter all flowed together into a blissful shining moment, one Tobirama wanted to never forget when things came crashing down and his world burned.
……………………………………
The plans began to go askew when Haruki returned early. Tobirama was thankfully home when her carriage pulled through the gates, Hashirama tumbling out of the doors almost as soon as it stopped. It was far too early, Snow still stubbornly lingering in the shadows, March only beginning. He was able to get the doors open to greet them as Hashirama made it to the top of the stairs.
“Tobi!” He tried not to flinch as those long arms wrapped around him in a crushing hug. “I missed you!” At least he seemed to be the same as ever.
“Hello Anija, I’m glad to see you.” He looked over his brother's shoulder and tried to give as much of a bow as he could to Haruki. “Stepmother, welcome back. You are both earlier than usual. I hope nothing happened?”
“Nothing you need to worry yourself about.” Haruki did not spare him another glance as she swept into the house, leaving the two brothers on the top steps.
“Ugh, she’s been like that since we left! Hardly said anything to me the whole trip and I had to stay in my room most of the time instead of getting to walk in the forest. It’s been the worst trip ever, Tobi. I'm so glad to be back here with you.”
Tobirama chewed his lip as his mind raced. This would be the perfect chance to slip a seal onto Hashirama. But something was stopping him. It felt dishonest. “Anija, I got something in town for you, from that booth you liked so much.”
He knew he had made the right choice when his eyes lit up. “The woodcarving booth?”
“Yes. I know how much you liked that bowl we bought so I went back. They do more than just carve wood. The woman told me that the spirals are supposed to be special and they make them into talismans." He pulled away from Hashirama enough to dig into his pouch. “You came back so soon I’ve not had time to attach them to anything.” He presented a few of the seal tags to Hashirama, hoping that he would take them and use them. “I got a lot of them. So you can turn them into different things if you want. I don’t know if you remember, but the woman at the stall was wearing them hanging from her hair.”
Hashirama took the tags from him carefully, “I remember. She had the most beautiful hair. It was so red. But not like the red mother likes, the ugly bloody color. It was almost like fire…” A strange blank sheen came over his eyes before one of the tags glowed and fizzled. Both of them jumped at the effects before looking at each other. The strange blank light in Hashirama’s eyes was gone.
“...What…is going on?” Hashirama’s eyes furrowed as he looked between him and the tags. “Why do I feel…” He froze, understanding flashed in his eyes. “Where am I?”
Tobirama hurried Hashirama into the kitchens. The one place in the house he knew Haruki would not come to willingly. Hashirama did not speak for a long time. Standing beside the fire and gripping the tags so tightly his knuckles were white.
“How long have I been here?”
“What do you mean?”
“How long have I lived in this house? Away from my grove.”
The silence stretched a while before Tobirama broke it with a whisper, “I was seven when my father married Haruki. I turned 18 over a month ago.”
Hashirama closed his eyes, face scrunching up as if in pain. “Ten years I’ve been separated from my tree.”
“She would take you back, I think. You are usually gone in the winter months. She claims it is for family things but I now believe it is because of your tree.” Hashirama’s shoulders sagged a bit. “How…how did she…”
“Ensnare me?” He laughed bitterly, “She wasn't always a monster. I remember her from before she was changed. A young girl roaming the woods picking herbs. That was so long ago now. She came to me, after the monster bit her. She changed under my boughs and there was nothing I could do. She became twisted. It has been many years since my mind has been clear. Thank you.” He looked a little embarrassed. ”I know I have lived here for a long while but…I honestly cannot remember your name.”
Tobirama smiled sadly, “Tobirama. My name is Tobirama. I have called you Hashirama for the last ten years.”
“Hashirama…huh…Not a bad choice. It fits with your name.” Hashirama smiled at him, “My real name is Ashura.”
Things moved quickly after Hashirama, Ashura’s, mind cleared. He knew they would, should have prepared for it. But there was no preparing for her wrath. Tobirama had enough time to shove his fur into his brother's arms and instruct him to run for the Uchiha. Madara would understand what it meant when he saw his fur. He only hoped he lived long enough for him to be upset with him.
He watched him vanish into the night before running to the kitchens and awakening Nari. The kitchen spirit only had to look at his fearful face before understanding. “She’s coming then?” Tobirama could only nod, eyes going wide as Nari’s magic melted away the disguise he had been wearing for far too long. “You have been a good friend, little Tobi. I will do what I can.” The old Yoki pushed him out of the kitchen moments before the fire erupted.
Tobirama faced Haruki in the grand dining room. The place he had witnessed so many of her victims' last moments. The fight was unequal. She had age and magic on her side. Tobirama had the last of the seals Mito gifted him and youth. It helped that she had not fed in several weeks. He was able to stall her long enough for Kouki to arrive, the both of them ripping her apart and feeding her to the flames. Tobirama numbly watched Kouki fall into the flames holding Haruki’s armless form, stumbling out of the place he had called home one last time, lungs burning and blood blocking his vision. He needed to get to the water…he needed…
………………………………………
Madara was afraid he was too late. The manor itself was already engulfed in flames when he had arrived, miles ahead of his men, horse foaming from the hard push. The fear at what the fire could mean made his heart sink and chest tighten. Tobirama might be in that house with the monster.
He felt so stupid for getting distracted, letting the intimacy of Tobirama and the implications of his pelt blind him from his mission. Exposing the vampire and protecting his people, even if Tobirama currently counted as one of his subjects. He cursed again as part of the roof collapsed, the pelt was warm in his hands letting him know Tobirama still lived.
He had been so shocked when Hashirama appeared at the gates holding the fur. Shoving it into Madara’s hands as he tried to explain what had happened. He rode out immediately, but it might not have been fast enough. He wracked his brain for anything that might be useful.
Soft words in the night came to him as he raced around the side of the manor, struggling to keep his footing on the slick stairs hugging the side of the cliff.
“There is a door, a small thing on the cliff face. Father always said it was carved for emergencies, an escape in case of siege. Stairs lead either up or down. When the house goes too quiet and the walls feel as if they are closing in, I slip out and away to the sea…”
He just needed to find that door, Tobirama would head for it to escape. He would escape.
He…
There was a shape…lying on the beach.
………………………………………
Madara stood on the shore, eyes gazing out at the moon reflecting gentle waves far out towards the horizon. Ash and smoke still lingered in the air from where the house burned, leaving nothing behind but an empty husk and wasted opportunities. Izuna would arrive soon with their father. They would find nothing. The vampire lay dead, pulled to pieces and burned along with the house in a blaze Tobirama had set with the help of Nari to finally rid the world of the enchantress that had snared his father and led to his demise.
Tobirama. Oh how just the thought sent a stab to his heart. He can still see the image of the man floating away, burned into his mind forever with his sharingan. The gift of the sun goddess felt like a curse. To be forced to remember those last moments instead of the happy times they had stolen away.
He had wrapped the white skin around him as they knelt in the foam rolling up the sand, knuckles almost white where his fingered buried in the fur. Heavy pained breaths on his neck and weak hands trying to grip Madara’s arms.
“...You have to let me go…” A long shuddering breath, “You have to set me free.”
Gods, he didn't want to. But to keep him, was to kill him, and Madara would rather cut out his own heart. He picked Tobirama up as gently as he could, wading out deeper in the waters until he could begin to feel the drag of the current beneath him, trying to pull him further out and away from land. Here, he lowered his love into the frigid waters. Here he let Tobirama go.
Madara stayed. Long past reason. Hikaku finally led him ashore in front of a small fire. He wrapped a blanket around him, silently pointing out a few more and a helping of food before turning back to where the men were still waiting on the cliff. Hikaku knew what it meant for an Uchiha to love, and to lose.
“...I slip out and away to the sea. I can hear the music in the waves crashing on the shore. The enchanting mirror of stars on a clear dark night rippling in the deeper waters. I have never felt more at home than by the sea. Except for now, here, with you in this place of fire and dark stone. Wrapped in your arms and the furs of your bed. When I choose, I will choose you in every lifetime.”