Chapter 1 - Encounter
This story takes place during a time of intense internal wars, where fortresses were besieged and fields were devastated. In this world, ambitious men sought power and glory, regardless of the consequences it entailed.
In the future, this era would be known by different names, but the most recognized of all was 'The Era of Clan Wars'. During this period, hundreds of clans acted as mercenaries under feudal lords, who sought to expand their dominion over new territories.
Among all the clans, two stood out for their strength and rivalry: the Uchiha and the Senju. These clans shared a common lineage in their origins, but as time passed and generations succeeded, the ideals of their founders faded away. The rift between them grew deeper, and it seemed that nothing could reunite them again.
However, amidst this enmity, individuals emerged who inherited the will of their ancestors, an unwavering determination to seek peace in a world corroded by ambition and war.
One of these remarkable individuals was a prominent member of the Senju clan, who had a fortuitous and peculiar encounter with a child from the Uchiha clan near a river. Despite their initial differences, they eventually forged a strong friendship based on shared ideals and a mutual desire for self-improvement.
Interestingly, neither of them was aware of the clan to which the other belonged. However, instead of allowing the feuds between their elders to separate them, they decided to keep that detail a secret, preferring to focus on building an authentic relationship and setting aside the differences that had divided their clans for so long.
—
"Hashirama, where are you going?" asked Tobirama, a fair-skinned child with reddish eyes reflecting a cold and calculated determination. He had noticed how his older brother was starting to get used to leaving the clan premises whenever no one was watching.
The mentioned child, slightly shorter than Tobirama, with black hair styled in a mushroom shape, came to a sudden stop, as if caught in the act. His unusual behavior only heightened his younger brother's suspicions.
"I'm going for a walk," Hashirama nervously replied, attempting to divert attention. "It's very boring to stay inside and listen to the elders complain all the time," he added, laughing even more nervously, only to then say, "You know, Tobirama, you should learn to relax once in a while."
Tobirama furrowed his brow, crossing his arms over his chest. "You always try to evade responsibilities, Hashirama," he thought. However, he decided not to confront him directly at the moment. Besides, a walk? At this time? His excuse seemed too convenient.
It was obvious that he was lying, and his attempt to conceal it was futile and unfavorable.
A few weeks ago, Tobirama began noticing Hashirama's absences at certain times. A sense of intrigue and distrust took hold of him. He decided to keep a closer eye on his brother, convinced that something didn't add up. He couldn't believe that Hashirama would go unnoticed, especially considering his status as the eldest son of the leader of the Senju clan.
"Well, I-I'm off," said Hashirama, nervously scratching the back of his neck. With slow steps, he began to move out of Tobirama's sight.
Tobirama watched his brother carefully as he walked away from the courtyard, remaining cautious of every person around them. That day, he decided to remain silent and immersed himself in his thoughts, exploring the various possibilities of what Hashirama could be doing. It was evident that his brother was making progress in his skills, judging by his notable development in recent weeks. However, what Tobirama couldn't comprehend was why Hashirama chose to leave the premises to train.
Hashirama was not a solitary person nor someone who avoided the company of his peers. That's why it was perplexing that he opted to avoid being seen every time he ventured outside the premises. Tobirama had tried to keep an eye on him on numerous occasions, but his brother always managed to vanish quickly from his sight.
Following that, Tobirama spent an entire week meticulously studying every movement pattern of his brother, analyzing every possible exit from the premises without being seen. Although he was his younger brother, Tobirama felt the responsibility of being Hashirama's guardian. He knew his brother was trusting and naive when it came to the intentions of others. And today was the day he would finally uncover what Hashirama was up to. He had carefully studied the areas where Hashirama usually left the premises, and now it was only a matter of following him without being detected.
—
Hashirama had finished chatting with his friends. He enjoyed those moments when he could freely talk without worries. So today, he would also prepare to return to the river where he would meet his friend. Before leaving the premises, he made sure there was no one nearby. Cautiously, he stepped out and ventured into the forest, following the path to the river.
Tobirama followed his brother from a safe distance, observing as he entered the nearby forest. He quickened his pace and silently moved through the tree branches, stealthily tracing Hashirama's steps. After ten minutes, they arrived at the river. Hashirama stopped inches away from the shore, sat down on the ground, and patiently waited, gazing at the calm waters flowing before him.
Tobirama remained concealed in an elevated area, granting him a privileged view of the location, patiently waiting to uncover what his brother was doing there. Was he training near the river, or had he simply gone there to relax? Fortunately, he didn't have to wait long to find out. A boy with black hair, sporting slightly long locks, appeared on the opposite bank of the river and stood still for a few seconds.
At first, that boy hadn't caught Tobirama's attention. However, everything changed when the boy ran across the water, approaching his brother. This was a problem since it demonstrated advanced chakra control, indicating that he belonged to some clan. This was the worst possible scenario. What was his brother doing meeting someone who didn't belong to the Senju clan?
Did both of them know about their clans? No, that seemed impossible. If they knew each other's identities and loyalties, Tobirama doubted they could cooperate or even greet and talk so calmly as they were doing.
The two boys spoke like old friends, but in an instant, they assumed combat stances. They carefully observed each other, cautiously measuring the other's abilities. Then, a frenetic duel of kicks and punches ensued, a dance of skill and determination. Each attack was skillfully blocked by the other party, and the intensity of the fight increased with each moment.
After a few exhausting minutes, both fighters fell to the ground, panting and sweating. Despite the fatigue, they looked at each other with a mixture of respect and admiration.
Tobirama finally understood the reason behind his brother's remarkable improvement in skills. Hashirama had found a worthy companion, someone as strong as he was, and that relationship of practice and mutual growth had further honed their abilities.
Tobirama had seen too much, more than he wanted to and more than he could accept. He was a staunch follower of his clan's rules, and what he had witnessed between his brother Hashirama and the black-haired boy challenged the established norms and endangered the stability of their clan.
Despite his appreciation for his brother, Tobirama found himself at a moral crossroads. On one hand, he felt an obligation to inform his father and the other clan members about what he had witnessed. On the other hand, he didn't want to betray his brother's trust or provoke internal conflicts within the clan.
Perhaps his brother didn't fully understand what people were capable of or the consequences if someone from the clan found out about his meetings with someone outside the clan.
Making a difficult decision, Tobirama chose to remain silent for the time being. He decided to confront Hashirama in private, letting him know that he knew where he was going every time he left the premises. He hoped that his brother would provide an explanation.
So with nothing else to do there, Tobirama decided to withdraw and return home. However, just as he was about to leave, he noticed the presence of another person in the distance. It was evident that they had also been following the black-haired boy. But what concerned him the most was the fact that the approaching person carried a short sword.
Tobirama remained alert and quickly assessed the situation. He knew he had to take action to protect his brother from any potential threat. With determination, he decided to approach discreetly, trying not to attract the attention of the sword-wielder.
Tobirama advanced with resolve towards the scene, keeping his mind focused on the unfolding situation before his eyes. His face remained impassive, concealing any emotion that could betray his apparent coldness. For him, every step was calculated, and every move was governed by relentless logic.
He carefully observed the approaching individual, noting the details of their appearance. The black hair and clothing resembling the other boy's indicated some kind of connection with the person his brother was meeting. From a distance, he couldn't discern the person's height. However, he could tell that they were much shorter than him, which could be used to his advantage in a potential confrontation.
His keen gaze captured the way the short sword was wielded, and the skill with which the person moved through the forest revealed their preparedness for combat.
As he stealthily approached, his mind worked at full speed. He analyzed every detail of the situation, searching for patterns and possible scenarios. His rational focus allowed him to make quick and precise decisions, without being swayed by impulses or uncontrolled emotions.
Tobirama listened attentively to the conversation between his brother and the unknown boy. He tried to pick up any hints of the armed individual's intentions. What was he seeking? Why had he approached them in such a threatening manner? Could it be a long-prepared trap to corner his brother?
Amidst the whispering wind and murmuring river, Tobirama weighed his options. He was prepared to intervene if the situation became dangerous. The protection of his brother became his top priority. As he got closer, his determination grew stronger, and his hand instinctively reached for the weapon he carried with him.
With heightened senses and his gaze fixed on the scene, Tobirama was ready to act at any moment. Uncertainty and adrenaline intertwined within him as he awaited the opportune moment to confront any threat that might arise.
Thus, in the midst of that forest, the destinies of the four boys converged in a decisive moment that would determine the course of their lives and the world.
Tobirama reached back, instinctively searching for the spot where his sword usually rested. But his gesture came to a sudden halt when he realized his oversight. The sword wasn't there. A glimpse of concern fleetingly crossed his face, but Tobirama didn't allow uncertainty to dominate him.
His cool and analytical mind quickly sought alternatives. He evaluated the available options and possible strategies to face the situation without the weapon that had accompanied him in so many battles. Logic prevailed once again, and Tobirama decided to trust in his skills and training. And perhaps, for the first time, in luck.
He observed the situation; the individual had their sword unsheathed and was approaching closer to his brother's position.
His posture straightened, displaying unwavering determination. Though disarmed, he would not be intimidated. He knew multiple hand-to-hand combat techniques, and his mastery of chakra was on par with that of an adult. His confidence lay in his ability to adapt and overcome any obstacle that presented itself.
The absence of his sword would not diminish his capacity to protect his brother and confront the armed individual. Tobirama relied on his agility, speed, and combat prowess. He knew that the element of surprise could be on his side since the unknown person would not expect him to be in an elevated position.
Without wasting any more time, Tobirama moved forward among the branches with steady steps, prepared to face the challenge at hand. His cool mind and unwavering determination were his best weapons in that moment. He needed nothing more to prove his worth as a warrior and protector of his clan.
Thus, with confidence in his abilities and the absence of fear in his heart, Tobirama prepared to confront the armed individual.
When Tobirama identified the opportune moment, he boldly launched himself at his opponent, managing to trap them and forcing them to release their sword in the midst of a fierce struggle. However, the black-haired person proved to be skilled and managed to break free from his grip, delivering a precise elbow strike to his stomach, causing him to momentarily step back.
With agility and speed, the stranger moved away from Tobirama, executing a nimble somersault and creating distance between them. This display of skill made it clear that his opponent was a formidable adversary, prepared for combat and possessing notable abilities.
Tobirama, aware of the danger of the situation, quickly composed himself, keeping his guard high and evaluating the next course of action to take. Despite the initial setback, his determination and strategic spirit did not falter. He knew he had to stay focused and find the best way to overcome the obstacles that stood in his path of protecting his brother.
However, amidst the frenzy of the fight, he was able to observe his adversary more closely. His surprise was considerable when he realized it was a young woman. Her feminine features were unmistakable—dark hair and delicate facial features. Surprise and confusion reflected in Tobirama's eyes as he tried to process what he was seeing.
That girl challenged the established norms of their time. In their society, women rarely ventured onto the battlefield; their main role was to ensure offspring and maintain clan stability. Yet, there she was, demonstrating notable combat skills and defying all expectations.
This revelation was highly unusual, as in most clans, if not all, women generally played roles restricted to procreation and were not typically warriors. If this girl had managed to break free from those conventions at such a young age, she must be someone extraordinary, defiant, and likely with a peculiar story.
A flood of questions filled Tobirama's mind. Who was this girl, and how had she managed to develop such skills? What motives had brought her to the same place as him? His curiosity and fascination with this unusual situation began to blend with a growing unfamiliar sensation.
Tobirama, known for his logic and focus on reason, found himself in a dilemma. On one hand, he had to protect his brother from any threat, but on the other hand, he felt curiosity and admiration towards this young woman who defied established conventions. Though the situation remained tense, Tobirama decided to maintain his composure and wait to see how events unfolded before making any definitive decisions.
"What's the matter? Does it surprise you that I'm a woman?" the black-haired girl asked with a defiant tone in her voice, never taking her eyes off Tobirama, who remained genuinely surprised.
"I won't deny that I'm impressed by your being a woman, but for me, the Clans waste the potential of many people with their policies. And I must admit that you've surpassed me, but don't think it will happen again," Tobirama said, assuming the typical fighting stance of the Senju clan, showing his determination and eagerness to redeem himself in combat.
The black-haired girl smiled with satisfaction and also took a fighting stance, adopting a posture that seemed surprisingly familiar to Tobirama. That stance evoked memories in his mind, but he couldn't quite pinpoint where he had seen it before.
Tobirama furrowed his brow, trying to recall the origin of that stance. His eyes scrutinized the girl, searching for any clue that would unravel the mystery. Suddenly, a spark of recognition lit up his face. It could be...
"I suppose I should give you credit. There aren't many men willing to admit that there can be women who surpass them," the black-haired girl said, a slight smile forming on her face.
"No need to give me credit because today, here and now, you're going to die. I can't allow my brother to be killed," Tobirama replied. That stance had answered all his questions; these people were dangerous.
"Your brother?" the black-haired girl asked, curious and surprised. "Is that dark-haired boy with the unusual hair your brother?"
Tobirama didn't respond to the question; he just stared intensely at the girl before him. He was able to observe her in greater detail: long black hair that reached her waist, unusually pale skin for a warrior, and black eyes that indicated danger.
"I see," the black-haired girl lowered her arms and assumed a less offensive stance. "The dark-haired boy with your brother is my older brother. I only came here following him. I wanted to see if the other boy was dangerous."
The tension in the air eased slightly as the revelation sank in. Tobirama and the black-haired girl now stood face to face, both realizing that their initial assumptions had been misconstrued. The confrontation had taken an unexpected turn, shifting from hostility to a mutual understanding of their shared goal—to protect their respective brothers.
Tobirama understood the girl's concern, but he still had doubts and wouldn't let his guard down. The girl seemed to have similar thoughts, as she remained prepared to attack despite relaxing her stance.
"So, why do you carry a short sword?" Tobirama accused, pointing at the sword lying on the ground.
"Are you stupid or something?" the black-haired girl retorted. "There was nothing guaranteeing that there weren't enemies around here. I should be asking you why you're unarmed."
Tobirama blushed with embarrassment as he realized the truth in the girl's words. He had followed his brother into an unknown location without taking necessary precautions. Forgetting his sword had left him in a vulnerable situation, and if his opponent had been more experienced, he could have paid with his life.
His brother owed him a great favor for this.
"You're right. I have been careless in that regard," Tobirama admitted.
"Well, well, this is something worth remembering. Maybe the men in my clan should learn from you. I have to beat them until they cry to make them admit they were wrong," the black-haired girl replied, a mix of sarcasm and amusement in her voice.
Tobirama did not react to that comment, maintaining his impassive expression as always. However, his posture relaxed slightly. With a quick and precise movement, he lifted the short sword that lay on the ground with his right foot and threw it towards the dark-haired girl. Surprisingly, the girl reacted swiftly and caught the sword in mid-air, demonstrating her skill and reflexes.
"I will tell my brother not to come here again, tell yours the same. If you don't want trouble," Tobirama said firmly before turning around and starting to walk away from the place.
"Wait a moment," the dark-haired girl interrupted, her tone of voice denoting curiosity.
Tobirama stopped and turned back to the dark-haired girl, maintaining his serene and expectant expression. He was ready to listen to what she had to say and consider it before continuing on his way.
"What is your name?" the girl asked, looking at the white-haired Tobirama who had turned in her direction.
"Tobirama," he replied indifferently.
The dark-haired girl smiled and decided to remember that name.
"Listen, Tobirama, the next time we meet, it might be as enemies, so don't think I will owe you any favors for today," she said.
Tobirama nodded in response to the girl's statement and, turning his back, he asked,
"Before I go, what is your name?" Tobirama inquired, turning his face towards the dark-haired girl.
During a moment of awkward silence, Tobirama wondered if the girl wasn't going to respond. He was about to give up and walk away when he finally heard her name: Izami. The mention of the name sparked a certain curiosity in Tobirama. However, he did not show any visible reaction and, with a serious expression, he turned around to leave, leaving Izami behind in that place.
—
Later, Tobirama returned to the clan's compound and noticed his brother heading towards the room where their father was. Without wasting any time, Tobirama hurried to catch up, aware that his brother might need his support in case their father decided to interrogate him about his absence in the past few hours.
"Tobirama, what are you doing here? Did father summon you too?" Hashirama asked nervously as he saw his brother approaching.
Tobirama shook his head and leaned closer to his brother's ear. In a barely audible whisper, he said, "I know everything, let me handle it..."
"What? Wait, what are you talking about? Tobirama, what do you mean?" Hashirama asked nervously.
Tobirama sighed as he watched his brother's anxious behavior. He leaned in again and whispered a word that would make him understand: "River."
"River?" His brother took a moment to comprehend. "Wait, how long have you known about this? Why are you telling me now?" Hashirama asked nervously and repeatedly.
"Quiet down and go inside, we're wasting time," Tobirama said.
Hashirama gently pushed the door open, and both brothers entered the room. The atmosphere was filled with seriousness and formality.
In the center of the room sat their father, Butsuma Senju, the current leader of the Senju clan. He was seated with a serious expression, waiting for his son Hashirama. However, his surprise was evident when the door opened and both Hashirama and Tobirama entered the meeting room together.
Butsuma raised his head, his eyes scanning his two sons with a look of surprise and confusion.
"Tobirama? Why are you here? Did I request your presence? This meeting is only for Hashirama," Butsuma said, unable to hide his bewilderment and his usual grumpy tone.
Tobirama remained calm and composed in the face of his father's reaction. He knew he had to explain himself and instill confidence.
"I am aware, father," Tobirama said as he respectfully bowed to his father. "However, I believe I can provide necessary information regarding what you want to know."
Butsuma furrowed his brow, still puzzled by Tobirama's presence at that moment. However, he recognized the determination in his son's eyes and decided to listen to what he had to say.
"If that's the case, you may stay," Butsuma responded with a gesture of approval towards his son. "As for you, Hashirama, the reason I summoned you here should be quite evident to you, isn't it?" Butsuma observed his son with a penetrating gaze, causing Hashirama to nervously swallow. "Lately, I've noticed you disappearing from the compound for a few hours," Butsuma continued, his voice firm and direct. "Do you have something to tell me?"
Hashirama felt cornered by his father's gaze and words. He knew he had been caught and could no longer hide his escapades.
"Father, I've simply been exploring the nearby areas for fun," Hashirama responded somewhat nervously, trying to conceal the true reason for his absences.
Butsuma looked closely at his eldest son, analyzing his words and gestures, trying to determine if he was telling the truth. Unsure, he turned to Tobirama, who nodded in agreement.
"I'm sorry, Brother, but we cannot hide anything from Father," Tobirama said solemnly, causing his brother to look at him with a mixture of surprise and terror, a cold sweat starting to trickle down his face. "Father, I have discovered something that I believe is important for you to know. Over the past month, Hashirama has been absent from the compound for several hours. At first, I had suspicions and decided to closely follow him to understand his motives."
Butsuma furrowed his brow, taken aback by Tobirama's revelation.
"What are you insinuating, Tobirama?" he asked in a stern tone.
Tobirama swallowed and continued with a firm voice.
"I discovered that Hashirama has been training alone in an extremely dangerous area of the forest. That's why his skills have been honed in the past month. He has exposed himself to unnecessary dangers and made reckless decisions without considering the possible consequences."
Butsuma stood up, visibly concerned and annoyed. He was surprised to hear this. He had complete trust in Tobirama, as he was not someone capable of lying, especially to him. However, something made him doubt the words of his younger son. He turned to his other son for confirmation.
"Hashirama, is what your brother says true?" he asked in an authoritative tone.
Butsuma received no response; he could only see his son sweating nervously. Hashirama lowered his gaze, feeling the weight of disappointment in his father's eyes. And so, Butsuma took that as a yes.
"You are aware of what you were doing, what would have happened if you had encountered an enemy? Or have you forgotten what happened to your brother Itama? You have needlessly put your life in danger in that forest. I don't want you to go out again without an escort, or until you are strong enough to defend yourself on your own," Butsuma scolded, his voice filled with concern and authority.
"It won't happen again," Hashirama assured, bowing his head as low as he could.
"Good, that's all. You may leave now," said Butsuma, rising from his seat and turning his back to his sons, who quietly exited the meeting room.
—
When they were in a discreet place, Hashirama whispered to his brother.
"Tobirama, can you tell me since when you knew about it?"
"I found out today. Don't ask me more about what I don't know. I was just watching you from a distance, so I couldn't hear anything," Tobirama replied, waiting for his brother's reaction.
"I suppose you want to know what I was doing, don't you, Tobirama?"
Tobirama nodded and followed Hashirama, who led him to a secluded spot where they could talk in peace. Once there, Tobirama leaned against a wooden beam while Hashirama stood in front of him. Then, he began to speak.
"Well, I stumbled upon him while exploring the area. After what happened with Itama, I needed to get away for a while. I found him by the river where I usually relax and skip stones. I approached out of curiosity, and as we talked, a corpse of a member of the Hagoromo clan floated down the river. That's when we both discovered that we were ninjas. Since then, we've been meeting at that same spot to talk and train. You know, Tobirama, Madara and I have very different personalities, but when we met, I knew we could understand each other."
"Hashirama, you know we can't trust anyone so readily. The only way for us to survive is by trusting our own and finding ways to surpass our enemies."
"I understand what you're saying, but if that's true, why didn't you expose me to father?" Hashirama asked.
Tobirama crossed his arms and chose his words carefully.
"I didn't intend to expose you. From the beginning, I knew that if I told you, you would listen to my warnings."
"Then can I ask why you took longer to return to the compound? Shouldn't you have been here before me?"
Tobirama was taken aback and nervously tapped one of his fingers, which didn't go unnoticed by his brother.
"There were a few things that happened while I was following you. I encountered a girl, apparently your friend's sister. I can assume she was around my age. We almost had a fight, but we managed to have a small conversation instead," Tobirama clarified, ceasing his tapping.
Hashirama raised an eyebrow, intrigued.
"So she also has surviving siblings," Hashirama muttered quietly, trying to keep his brother from hearing.
However, with his keen sense of hearing, Tobirama caught his brother's words.
"Well, then, what are you going to do from now on? Remember, you can't see your friend anymore," Tobirama commented.
Hashirama seemed to reflect for a moment, then looked at his brother with seriousness.
"Tell me, Tobirama, could you do me one last favor?" he asked, sparking Hashirama's curiosity.
Tobirama furrowed his brow, but nodded.
—
Meanwhile, in the Uchiha compound, two siblings were discussing what had happened earlier.
"Well, Izami, do you really think he's someone dangerous?" Madara asked after he had finished recounting his part of the story.
The girl beside him was Izami Uchiha, with fair skin and finely sharp features. Her black eyes had a unique dark gleam, and her long black hair cascaded down her back. In contrast, her brother was the complete opposite, with a more wild appearance but a much sharper mind.
Izami exuded a serene elegance, as if she concealed deep secrets behind her penetrating gaze. Her calm presence contrasted with the intensity reflected in her brother's eyes. Although they shared the characteristic dark hair of their clan, their personalities diverged significantly.
It was evident that Izami and Madara were different but complemented each other's strengths and weaknesses, forming a special bond as siblings. Together, they were a formidable force.
"Based on how you've described it, I highly doubt I could see him as someone dangerous. However, you must understand that we cannot associate with people from other clans. Father specifically tasked me with watching over you, and you shouldn't have been absent for so many hours during the day," Izami said with a small sigh. "I would have to report this, but if I did, Father might punish you with one of his typical genjutsu sessions. So tell me, do you want me to tell Father everything, or will you stop meeting that boy?"
Madara looked at his younger sister with seriousness. The warning she conveyed was clear, and he knew she was right. Their father, the relentless leader of the Uchiha clan, showed no mercy to those deemed insubordinate. More than once, he had witnessed his father severing the throat of a clan member for a simple mistake.
Cruelty and strict discipline were distinct characteristics of their father, and no one was exempt from his ruthless judgment. Not even his own children.
"You know, Izami, that boy believes he can bring about a world where we can live in peace without the need to kill each other."
Izami's face expressed incomprehension, as if he were speaking of something impossible to achieve.
"I had the same look on my face. How can we create peace when we have taken the lives of hundreds of people? I thought it would be impossible, but Hashirama spoke with complete conviction about his dream, and that inspired me to believe that maybe we could achieve it."
Izami listened attentively to her brother's words, her gaze reflecting a mixture of surprise and doubt.
Izami paused for a moment, contemplating her brother's words. She understood his hope and determination, but she couldn't help but be skeptical of the feasibility of Hashirama's dream.
"Madara, that's impossible," Izami responded. "The only way peace could be achieved is if there were no humans, or if everyone was dead. We are beings of war. Even before the control of chakra, people killed each other for the same things we do: power and influence. That's how the world we live in functions."
Madara didn't argue against his sister's crushing logic because she was right.
"It's true, but I still have hope that his dream will come true. That our dream will come true someday. Besides, he's stronger than me, so he won't have difficulties overpowering anyone who stands in his way."
Izami looked at him with surprise. "Stronger than you? I thought someone like that couldn't exist in our generation, let alone in a clan other than ours."
Madara smiled and let the weight of his body fall back, his arms resting behind his neck.
"When I met Hashirama, I realized that the world is vast. There are people stronger than us, which is why we must become stronger ourselves to protect those we hold dear," Madara said with determination.
Izami wore a surprised expression. It was rare for her brother to acknowledge someone as stronger than him.
"I can see why you don't want me to tell father, but you have to promise me that you won't meet with that boy again. The risks of your encounters with him are higher now than before."
Madara straightened up, leaving his relaxed position behind.
"Did something happen that I don't know about?" Madara asked, his gaze unwavering on his sister.
—Nothing worth mentioning. Just an exchange of words, that's all.
—I see. I'm sorry for getting you involved in more trouble than you already have.
At that moment, a gust of wind passed between them, gently lifting their hair.
"No need to apologize. As I told you, things were resolved with a little conversation. We didn't have to fight."
"If that's the case, can I ask you a favor before I stop meeting with Hashirama?"
Izami nodded.
"What do you want?"
"I want to say goodbye to him and clear things up."
Izami looked at him with her sharp eyes before warning him.
"You know how dangerous that is. Father might suspect something, and there's no guarantee he'll come back. He must have received a warning about meeting with you as well."
Madara shook his head.
"I'm sure he'll come. I have faith in him and his ideals."
Izami thought carefully about her brother's proposition, and finally made up her mind.
"If that's all you want, I can help you. But I'll go with you in case things don't go as expected. I'll tell father that you simply needed some time alone to clear your mind, or that you were training on your own."
Madara smiled. Sometimes it seemed like Izami was the older one between them.
"That's fine with me. I couldn't ask for more."
"Alright, I'll inform father about this," Izami said, winking at her brother. "Let me know tomorrow when we're going."
"Izami," her brother called out to her before she left.
Izami stopped as she was about to leave the room.
"Um?"
"Thank you. You're a good sister," Madara said, genuinely grateful.
"And you're just realizing that now?" Izami responded with a laugh before she walked away.
As Izami left her brother's room, she hurried towards the hall where her father was. However, in the middle of the corridor, she was interrupted by an older boy who attempted to push her aside.
"Hey, girl, get out of my way. You're just in the way," said a tall and burly boy.
Another boy, almost the same height but less muscular, interrupted him.
"Yato, you idiot, what are you doing? Don't you know who she is? I apologize for his behavior, Izami-sama. Please forgive my brother, he doesn't understand your position."
The thinner boy quickly apologized, showing respect towards Izami and recognizing the importance of her status.
"What are you talking about, Yamato? This girl is weak, she should be serving us like the rest."
"Yato, you idiot, shut up if you don't want to die!" Yamato shouted as he covered his brother's mouth and bowed to Izami as an apology.
Izami raised an eyebrow and with a swift movement of her feet, she approached the burly boy.
"Is that what you think, big guy? If you're so sure of your superiority, come and prove it," she said, staring him down.
"See, Yamato? A bitch is just a bitch, that's all they can say before—"
Yato couldn't finish what he wanted to say as Izami kicked him in the face, breaking his jaw and leaving him sprawled on the ground, sobbing in pain. Izami approached Yato, still on the ground, with his hands on his dislocated jaw. She placed one of her feet on his head.
"Tell me, do you still think you're better than me? Please, tell me," Izami said, pressing her foot against Yato's head, who could only make unintelligible sounds. "Oh, it seems you don't understand. Can't you admit that I'm better than you?"
Izami repeatedly kicked the boy in the ribs until Yato's brother intervened, placing his body to shield him from the blows.
"Please, Izami-sama. My brother has been scarred for life. He must recognize your strength," Yamato pleaded, prostrating himself and trembling.
Izami smiled. She wouldn't lie if she said she didn't enjoy beating up guys like this.
"Fine, now get out of my sight with your worthless brother. Go!" Izami ordered.
Yato bowed even deeper and took his brother to the nearest infirmary. Blood stained his clothes, and his brother's size only made things more difficult for him.
Izami had to endure such things her whole life. The women of the Uchiha clan, and many other clans during this time, were treated as bargaining chips or as machines to produce stronger clan members.
Her clan didn't use women for exchanges, but they were relegated to nothing more than breeders for the clan. She was always belittled, even her father seemed to belittle her when it came to her brothers, but now that only two of his children were alive, he didn't show it as much.
Izami sighed and checked her sandal, there was a bit of blood from the earlier big idiot, so she went to wash up and put on a fresh pair before heading to meet her father.
Once she finished changing and washing up, she resumed her path.
Izami walked with a steady pace towards the meeting room of the Uchiha clan. The place was decorated in a traditional style, with dark wooden panels, tatami floors, and walls adorned with paintings and calligraphy.
Upon entering the room, she was greeted by a long wooden table and cushions on the floor for seating. The walls were covered in ancient scrolls, and there was a large map in the center of the table.
Izami sat on one of the cushions, taking a moment to observe the room and mentally prepare herself before the meeting. She knew she would have to express her ideas and opinions clearly and persuasively, especially in such a traditional and conservative setting.
"Report on what you have found," ordered Tajima, as cold as ever.
Izami bowed, displaying the hierarchy between her father and herself.
"Madara has been training on his own, there is no need to worry," she informed.
Tajima narrowed his eyes and observed her for a long moment.
"Very well, if that is all, you may leave," Tajima said, to which his daughter simply bowed and left without saying anything further.
The next morning, as the different clans went about their usual activities, the Uchiha and Senju siblings had different plans for the day. They had gathered their supplies and informed their elders that they would be going out to explore in search of food.
The first ones to arrive at the agreed meeting point were Tobirama and Hashirama, waiting on the other side of the river. They were ready and eager to embark on their adventure together.
"I've told you, brother, your friend won't come. I don't think he would be foolish enough to do so," Tobirama asserted, scanning the forest with a hint of mistrust.
Hashirama and Madara exchanged solemn looks, both feeling the weight of the revelation. Despite the longstanding conflict between their clans, they had formed a deep bond and shared their dreams and aspirations. Now, faced with the truth of their respective clan affiliations, they had to grapple with the implications it held for their friendship.
Hashirama's mind raced with conflicting emotions. He wondered how this newfound knowledge would affect their relationship and if their friendship could withstand the animosity between their clans. Deep down, he hoped that their bond would prevail over the history of hatred and lead to a new era of understanding.
Madara, on the other hand, was overwhelmed by a mix of anger, betrayal, and confusion. The realization that his trusted friend was from the very clan he despised, the clan responsible for the suffering of his own people, was a heavy blow. He questioned whether their friendship had been genuine or merely a facade.
As the weight of their respective clan affiliations sank in, the atmosphere grew tense. The air was thick with uncertainty as they stood there, grappling with their emotions and uncertain about the path forward.
"Hashirama, in the end, it was impossible, wasn't it? That peace you desire," said Madara with a somber look and a mixture of pain and determination in his voice. "I'm sorry, but loyalty to my family and the desire to avenge my brothers are stronger than any other bond. I cannot allow their deaths to go unpunished. The next time we meet, it will be as enemies."
Madara lifted his gaze, revealing his awakened Mangekyou Sharingan glowing in a burning crimson hue. The powerful doujutsu stood out in his eyes, radiating a menacing determination and a thirst for revenge.
Izami and Tobirama, taken aback by Madara's unexpected transformation, immediately went on high alert. The tension in the air thickened as they observed the stones in their elder brothers' hands, their eyes filled with growing concern and confusion.
In the blink of an eye, Izami and Tobirama assumed defensive stances, ready to confront any threat. Their muscles tensed, prepared to react to any suspicious move from their counterparts.
A heavy silence enveloped the scene, only interrupted by the strained breaths and accelerated heartbeats. Hashirama and Tobirama, once allies and friends, now found themselves at a dangerous crossroad. The peace they had dreamed of seemed to fade in an instant, giving way to the possibility of an inevitable confrontation.
"We're leaving, Izami. I've made it clear that the next time we meet, it will be different," said Madara with authority.
Izami silently nodded, understanding that she couldn't convince her brother at that moment and that it was better to withdraw. With one last glance at Hashirama and Tobirama, the Uchiha siblings turned around and walked away, leaving behind a tense and uncertain atmosphere.
From that moment on, the friendship between Hashirama and Madara came to an end, paving the way for an intense rivalry. They found themselves on opposing sides, with divergent ideals and goals. Their paths diverged, and they became leaders of their respective clans, carrying the weight of their past connections and broken promises. Destiny placed them on the path of confrontation, where their differences and resentments would intensify, marking the beginning of a legendary enmity that would leave a lasting impact on history.