It was midafternoon and Reina was sitting by the koi pond in their garden with a parasol protecting her from the sun. Her burgundy kimono enhanced her chocolatey brown hair that hung pin straight. She had a blush-colored lip tint on, enhancing her feminine features. Reina relaxed as she waited to be summoned. A few weeks had passed since the decision was made for her to marry Madara. Now, it was time to begin planning the wedding. Hashirama, Tobirama, and the elders were awaiting the arrival of Madara and a few members of his higher council. Reina decided to leave the waiting room to go "use the restroom," but she simply needed fresh air. At least she wouldn't be scolded for not protecting herself from tanning, which she thought was ridiculous in and of itself. She didn't consider herself to be royalty; therefore she didn't need to have pale skin. She was a kunoichi and ninja operated in all kinds of weather conditions, especially sunshine. Reina had a natural, olive undertone in her skin. It was light, but she'd never be as pale as snow no matter how hard she tried. Reina sighed and felt the fish swim past her hand in the water.
"Reina!" Hashirama called as he ran out to her. "Come inside or Shika will have your head. She's hunting for you."
"Shit!" Reina immediately stood up and brushed herself off. She hurried inside and bolted upstairs with her brother. The two slinked into the meeting room void of Shika. "Phew! Safe."
Hashirama chuckled. "You're lucky I found you first."
"I appreciate your concern." Reina kneeled on the floor.
"I'm going to head downstairs and greet the Uchiha clansmen when they arrive." Hashirama bowed before leaving the room.
Tobirama simply sat on his cushion, arms crossed. "I still don't understand why I have to be a part of this."
Reina furrowed her brows and pursed her lips. "Are you kidding me? If anyone wants to be in charge of things it's you. Don't even try to deny it."
Tobirama simply blinked. "I suppose you've a point." He said nonchalantly.
The door opened to reveal Shika with an annoyed expression. "There you are! Reina, stop running off. I've had enough of your antics."
"What have I done to you?" Reina inquired sarcastically.
"Reina, please. You're shortening my life span." Shika walked over to her cushion.
Reina chuckled. "Oh, you mean the few months you have left?"
Tobirama held in his laughter and simply shook his head. "Reina… not now."
Reina grinned. "I'm sorry, Shika. Please accept my apology."
"Oh, how convincing." Shika crossed her arms. "You and your toothy grin."
Reina flashed a cheeky smile. "Love me for who I am."
"Forget it." Shika waved her hand. She stopped when she heard footsteps and voices approaching. "It sounds like the Uchiha clansmen are here. Everyone, please stand."
Jirou grumbled before standing up. "I'm getting too old for this."
"That's the spirit," Reina said sarcastically.
"Hush." Jirou simply spouted as he watched the door.
Tobirama chuckled and stood up as well. The Senju were all facing the door and watched as it slid open to reveal Madara and his council. The Uchiha clansmen stepped in and Hashirama followed, shutting the door behind him. Everyone took their place by a seat cushion and bowed before kneeling.
Reina simply sat motionless, instructed to sit with elegance while having a strong presence. She looked at Madara and then at his council. She recognized Daisuke, but that's just about it. Jun wasn't present, but then again, he is simply a head trainer. Perhaps he was manning the fort during Madara's absence.
Hashirama spoke first. "Hello, everyone. Thank you for coming this afternoon. It's finally time to plan the much-awaited union between the Senju and Uchiha clan. Feel free to take any notes and make any suggestions during this meeting."
Madara continued. "We are sincerely grateful for this opportunity." He bowed and his clansmen followed. "We did bring a note taker if you don't mind him sitting on the side."
"Of course, that would be splendid," Jirou stated.
"Daisuke, please seat yourself between the two clans." Madara politely instructed.
Daisuke bowed. "Yes, sir!" The teen immediately stood up and moved his seat cushion to the side where he faced the two clans rather than being seated in the back. He set down his notepad, ink pot, and brush as he prepared to take notes.
"Thank you, Daisuke." Madara looked at Hashirama. "Shall we introduce our clansmen?"
"Absolutely. Allow me to start." Hashirama gestured towards the elders. "This is Lord Jirou and Lady Shika, our clan elders. They have been helping govern the Senju clan for many decades as an advisory council. Of course, everyone in this room knows of my brother, Tobirama." He then gestured toward Reina. "Lastly, this is my sister, Lady Reina." Reina simply bowed her head a few centimeters for recognition.
Madara nodded. "Beside me, are Lord Tatsuya and Lady Chiharu. They are the Uchiha clan elders. Behind me is Kazumi and Emiko. They are actually newlyweds and trusted members of my council. So, I'm certain they will have plenty of valuable insight. Of course, we have Daisuke taking notes as my dutiful helper."
Reina did her best to hide a small. Madara regarded his clansmen so highly from elite council members to note-takers. It seemed as if he was a wonderful leader. She was genuinely smitten by his social skills. Perhaps she underestimated him all along. Madara had everything one could possibly want in a man. He was strong, powerful, wise, intelligent, sentimental, respectful, and successful. What more could she ask for? Right?
Hashirama interrupted her thoughts. "Let's begin. My first question is we will be having this wedding at the village shrine or the Uchiha shrine?"
Madara nodded. "That's an excellent question. I think it depends on whether or not this wedding will include only the Uchiha clan and the Senju or if it will be more public and anyone can watch."
"Lord Madara," Kazumi interjected. "Might I give some input?"
"Of course," Madara said as he watched Daisuke write his notes.
Kazumi cleared his throat. "If this wedding is going to act as a widespread symbol of peace, then it might be wise to have it open to the public. As a leading village containing two of the strongest clans in this shinobi world, we should want other villages and families to follow suit. I think it would send a much stronger message than anything else."
Jirou spoke up. "I think a public wedding would be more than appropriate."
Tatsuya nodded. "Absolutely. When Reina swears her oath to become a member of the Uchiha clan, we will have a private ceremony at the Uchiha temple."
Chiharu chimed in. "Then it's settled. Madara and Reina will wed in the village temple, marking its first-ever ceremony."
Hashirama nodded in agreement. "Perfect. Our next question is in regards to Reina's relocation…"
Hashirama's voice trailed off as Reina simply sat in silence. She knew she had no say in the matter and would simply wait for future instructions on what to do. Reina was trailing off when the conversation took an interesting turn. She paid close attention and listened carefully as the clansmen began discussing her housing situation.
"I currently live in a commons with my clansmen, but if Reina will be moving in I feel as if it's only appropriate for us to have our own dwelling," Madara stated.
Hashirama nodded. "I agree. It's important to balance personal and work affairs. Perhaps we should start building you both a new house."
"I agree. I think it will make Reina feel more comfortable with the transition as well." Tobirama said.
"Perfect, then we will design it how she likes and begin building as soon as possible. It should be finished before the wedding." Madara stated.
Reina was taken aback. "I get to design my own house?" She had no idea getting married had such amazing perks. "Madara is so generous." Reina smiled before her attention quickly faded to the thought of dinner. She wondered what they would be eating after the meeting.
As quickly as Reina's thoughts left, dinner time came. The two clans were sitting in the dining room around a long table. There was a variety of food ranging from sushi, seafood, mapo tofu, fried pork cutlet, vegetables, rice, and more. Unfortunately, Reina was served a small portion of food and no alcohol. She did her very best not to eye the spread of food in front of her and act like a "lady." Reina hid a small smirk as she realized they would most likely have leftovers. Reina definitely planned on sneaking food once her guests were gone.
Later that evening, the Uchiha clan left the tower and the Senju saw them off. Once they were gone, Reina shuffled back into their dwelling and the kitchen. Reina made herself a heaping plate of leftovers and began eating it on sight. She chewed with a content smile as Shika walked into the kitchen. The elder simply shook her head and left. Reina grinned and continued eating her mountain of food until it was completely gone.
The next day Reina, Madara, Hashirama, Tobirama, the elders from both clans, a contractor, landscaper, and construction builders were standing around a plot of land. Reina and Madara had chosen their desired location to build a house. It was closer to the back of the Uchiha clan's section, almost secluded from other houses. Of course, they planned on tearing down many trees to build their house to have open land, but there was still an aspect of privacy.
The lead architect of the construction project walked up to both Madara and Reina to discuss blueprints. "Hello, Lord Madara, Lady Reina. May I speak with you?"
"Of course," Madara stated and the two turned to face the man. "What can we do for you?"
"I understand you were looking to build a more modern home, but I must inquire if you will be adding additional floors to your dwelling?" The man asked politely. "I understand you are busy people. Therefore, if we make an additional floor, you can have more separation from work and your personal life."
Madara turned toward Reina. "Would you like an additional floor?"
"You're leaving the decision to me?" Reina looked taken back.
"Why not? Happy wife, happy life." Madara shrugged.
Reina blushed and shook her head at his comment. "Well, if that's the case, why not?"
"Then it's settled. We will start building once the blueprints are finished. The entire project shouldn't take too long." The architect bowed and walked away from them.
Madara chuckled. "I'm sure his business is booming."
"Look at how much construction this village has gone through already." Reina nodded in agreement. "I'm sure he's a happy guy."
"Reina!" Shika called as both she and Chiharu came over to them. "Reina, we have a question."
"What is it, Lady Shika?" Reina turned her attention to the elder.
"Will you have a room designated for a nursery?" Shika asked with sincerity.
Reina looked confused and almost repulsed. "No, absolutely not."
Chiharu chimed in. "My dear, we do expect you to produce an heir."
"Why am I not surprised?" Reina smiled. "If that is the case then we will produce an heir, but in our own time. I want every room in this house to function and if we need to create a nursery in the future then we will." She turned to Madara for confirmation who simply nodded in agreement.
The two elders looked at each other and sighed. Shika mumbled. "Very well."
Reina watched as the two ladies walked away to speak with the other elders. She clenched her jaw and took in a deep breath. "We aren't even married yet."
Madara put a hand on Reina's shoulder. "Don't worry. It's not like they can force us. I have more control than you think. Their constant barking will end soon."
Reina gave a small smile as she looked up at the Uchiha clan lord. "Thank you for the reassurance." She sighed and watched as the landscapers began their work.
A few more weeks had passed and Reina found herself being fitted for a wedding kimono. She was tired from the string of busy days she had with planning the wedding, boxing up her belongings, and monitoring the construction of her new house. Later that evening, she had to go to Madara's house for a small birthday dinner that Jun and his council were having for him.
Reina and Shika was standing around and waiting for the seamstress to pull out a custom kimono when Reina's stomach cramped. "Ugh!" Reina held her stomach and bent over in pain. She took in a deep breath and looked up at the elder.
Shika came to her side. "Lady Reina, are you alright?"
Reina shook her head. "I'm bloated, hungry, and cramping."
"Did you get your period?" Shika inquired.
Reina looked at her with wide eyes before groaning. "Damn it! Why now? I have to try on white fucking kimonos!"
"Language, dear." Shika reminded her softly. "Let's walk you to the restroom." The elder guided Reina to the bathroom to take care of her business. She walked back to the fitting room where the seamstress came in looking confused.
"Where is Lady Reina?" The middle-aged woman inquired.
Shika sighed. "Mother Nature decided to pay her a visit."
"Oh, poor thing." The woman sighed. "There are feminine products under the sink."
"Thank you for placing those there. We found them." Shika bowed and the two women waited for the distressed Reina to come back out.
Reina eventually came out, doubled over, holding her abdomen. "Why does this happen?"
The two ladies giggled. "It's part of being a woman."
"Point taken." Reina stood in the center of the fitting room and straightened herself up. "Okay, I know you have to wrap me up tightly, but just warn me when you do."
The seamstress nodded. "I shall. Best of luck."
Evening came and Reina was lying in her bed incapacitated. She was drinking chamomile tea while soaking a hot cloth on her abdomen. There was a knock on the door and Reina called out lifelessly for the person to enter. The door slowly opened to reveal Hashirama and Tobirama. The brothers stepped inside and examined their sister.
Hashirama hissed. "I'm so glad I'm not a woman."
"Likewise," Tobirama muttered.
"Not helping." Reina retorted.
"Are you coming to Madara's dinner party?" Hashirama asked sweetly.
"I have no choice." Reina slowly sat up. "One of you, grab me a yukata."
Tobirama walked over to her wardrobe and looked at the various options. "What color?"
"Black," Reina grumbled.
"But you're not going to a funeral," Tobirama stated.
Reina sighed. "Then burgundy."
"But you always wear burgundy." He responded.
"Well, fuck, Tobirama! Purple!" Reina shook her head as she watched her brother pull out a royal purple yukata. "Thank you."
"Sheesh. Somebody feed the dragon." Tobirama sassed and laid the garment on her bed. "We will meet you downstairs in a few minutes."
"Got it." Reina watched as her brothers left and began changing into her evening attire.
Madara, Jun, Hashirama, Tobirama, Reina, and the council members were all sitting down at a long, dining room table. Everyone was laughing and having drinks as they talked about life, work, childhood memories, and more. Eventually, it was time for a toast.
Hashirama stood up and cleared his throat. "May I have everyone's attention please?" The table quieted down. "I wanted to thank everyone for their cooperation, especially Madara. My dear friend, without you and your leadership none of us would be here sipping drinks and celebrating your life. This evening is a dream come true and I wish nothing but the best for you and your clan… and your future marriage with my beloved sister, Reina. Happy birthday, Madara." The whole table clapped as Hashirama sat back down in his seat.
Reina thought his speech was adorable, but all she could think of was leaving the party and lying in her bed. She cared for Madara and knew today was important to him, but her cramps were crippling. Reina did her best to enjoy everyone's company, though she was rather quiet for the duration of the dinner. She would contribute a few sharp one-liners to get everyone laughing, but other than that she kept to herself.
A few days had passed and Reina was, once again, at the construction site of her new home. The process was quick, as promised, and they were putting the finishing touches on the house. It was rather large and the additional floor added more presence to it. The garden was expansive and filled with a variety of plants. Madara ensured that a training ground was created as well. Reina examined their craftsmanship when her thoughts were interrupted by a shrill call.
"Reina!" Shika came hurrying over to her. "There you are! It's time to try on your wedding kimono."
Reina turned to the elder. "It's done already?"
"Yes, now come with me!" Shika grabbed Reina's arm and pulled her through the streets of Konoha. The two entered the seamstress's shop and greeted her at the desk. "Hello, dear!" Shika bowed to the woman. "We are here for Reina to try on her kimono."
"Absolutely, right this way." The woman brought the two to the fitting room where Reina's kimono was hanging.
Reina looked at the lavish article and gasped. "Wow, this looks expensive."
"It is," Shika stated with a giggle.
"If you wouldn't mind undressing so I can clothe you." The woman said to Reina.
"Oh, yeah." Reina did as told and let the woman dress her in her kimono. She looked in the mirror at the final result and couldn't hide her grin. "This is amazing. I love it."
"How does it fit?" The woman asked while adjusting the bottom.
"Perfectly. Like a glove." Reina nodded. "We'll take it."
Shika piped up. "Oh, don't forget the wataboshi."
Reina shook her head. "No. I will not be wearing that."
Shika looked dumbfounded. "Why not? It's tradition."
"What about me screams tradition?" Reina asked in all honesty. "If we buy it, it'll be a waste of money, because I am taking it off."
"Fine. Have it your way." Shika sighed. "I've lost the strength to argue with you."
"Oh, great. Can I not get married then?" Reina asked excitedly.
Shika glared at the young woman. "Dream on."
That evening, Reina and her shadow clones were moving boxes from the tower, into her new house. She was alone in her new, finished dwelling as she began to unpack. There were also wedding gifts sitting in the main entryway for her to unpack. Reina was about to tackle the job when there was a knock at the door. Reina shuffled over to the entryway and opened the door to reveal Madara.
"Oh, what a surprise." Reina smiled and let him in. "Did you get a key?"
"No, do you have the other?" Madara inquired while stepping in and admiring the house. "They did a wonderful job."
Reina nodded. "I agree." She handed him an envelope. "The second key is in here."
"Thank you." He smiled and looked at the various boxes and gifts. "I see we have a lot to open."
"Yes, shall we?" Reina gestured towards the mountain of items.
Madara sighed as he stared at the daunting tower of boxes. "Might as well." With that, the couple began sorting and sifting through their new items as they set up their house.