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Chapter 9: Suspicions

"Wake up, brother!"

Hashirama groaned as he slowly woke up to Tobirama's nagging voice. Not now. He pulled his bed sheets over his head to block out the sound of Tobirama's words. However, the covers were quickly pulled off him, and the cold air hit his bare skin, causing him to shiver.

"Wake up. We need to get into the office," Tobirama demanded.

Rubbing his eyes, Hashirama slowly sat up and looked over at the clock that hung on the wall. He frowned at the time and mumbled, "Tobirama, it's 6:30 AM. My first meeting isn't until 9 o'clock."

"Yes, but you need to get some work done before then. You still have a lot of catching up to do," Tobirama responded as he crossed his arms and looked down at Hashirama.

Hashirama buried his face into his hands and whimpered. "Tobirama, please, just 10 more minutes," he pleaded as he attempted to pull the covers back over him and lay back down, but Tobirama showed no mercy. He yanked the covers off the bed and threw it on the ground.

"No. Get up. I'll be back here in 5 minutes if I don't hear you in the bathroom," Tobirama said sternly as he walked out of the room.

Hashirama groaned as he collapsed back onto the bed and stared up at the ceiling with his groggy eyes. Tobirama was such an early bird, and he always got to the Hokage tower relatively early to get started on his work. Now that Hashirama was temporarily living with him, he's been dragging Hashirama to work early along with him to get work done. Hashirama sighed and sat back up, swinging his legs over the edge of the bed. He really didn't feel like getting up. Waking up these days had been difficult for him because as soon as he opened his eyes, all of his worries immediately flooded his mind, making his chest feel heavy.

Before Hashirama could stand up, he thought to himself, "Wait a minute… I'm the Hokage. And I have free will…" Convinced, Hashirama grabbed his covers from the floor and pulled them back over his body as he rested his head on his pillow to go back to sleep.

Five minutes later, Tobirama came back to Hashirama's room. His eye twitched in irritation when he saw his older brother comfortably snug in bed. His initial thought was to force Hashirama to get up, but Tobirama ultimately decided to show him some mercy for now. He knew Hashirama had a lot on his mind these days and was going through an emotionally rough patch. Well, at least he'd successfully been able to get Hashirama to complete more work than he usually does these days. At the end of the day, Tobirama knew Hashirama would step up for the village when it truly mattered, so he decided to just let it go this morning.

Tobirama sighed. "I'll go ahead without you then. But you better not be late for the first meeting at nine o'clock," Tobirama said as he closed the door.

A smile slowly crept onto Hashirama's face, thankful for the extra time Tobirama decided to give him this morning. He soon drifted off to sleep for what felt like only a few minutes. But when he opened his eyes again, he looked at the clock to see that it was 8:45 AM.

"CRAP!"

Hashirama immediately shot out of bed and rushed to the bathroom to freshen up. With his toothbrush in his mouth, he ran back to his bedroom and grabbed his clothes, wiggling into them while attempting to brush his teeth at the same time. Once his clothes were on, he looked around the room while brushing to make sure he wasn't forgetting anything before running to the bathroom to spit and grab a hairbrush. Scurrying to the kitchen while brushing his disheveled hair, Hashirama grabbed a cold rice ball from the fridge and shoved it into his mouth. He threw the hairbrush onto the kitchen counter before running to the main entrance and clumsily slipping on his shoes. As he ran out, he slammed the door shut, taking a few steps forward before remembering to go back and lock the door.

Hashirama then rushed to the Hokage tower, opting to jump from building to building instead of running through the streets to avoid having to weave through villagers. When he finally made it, he ran through the halls, quickly greeting those he passed by. When he finally arrived at the meeting room, he slammed the door open and skidded to a stop in the middle of the room. Hashirama looked over at the nearby clock on the wall, which read 8:59 AM.

"SAFE!" Hashirama exclaimed as he pumped his fists in the air. Bringing his hands down to his hips, he flashed a satisfied smile. He turned to see Tobirama, who was the only other person in the room, sitting at the table.

"Tobirama! Good morning!" Hashirama cheerfully greeted as he walked over to have a seat next to him. "Um… so… what was this meeting for again?" Hashirama asked, flashing a sheepish smile.

Tobirama gave him a disapproving look and rolled his eyes. "To formally meet the new leader of the Uchiha Clan, Isamu Uchiha."

"Oh! Right, right! I knew that!" Hashirama said as booming laughter escaped his mouth, echoing through the room until his laughter gradually faded. "Isamu Uchiha, huh?" Hashirama noted as he leaned back against his chair. That name continued to echo in his mind. He was well aware of who Isamu was. In fact, he knew everyone in the village. To Hashirama, it made sense why Isamu Uchiha was chosen as the new leader. He was a highly regarded, well-respected man. However, he wasn't up to the same caliber as Madara. No one can top Madara in Hashirama's eyes. It was still difficult for Hashirama to accept that Madara just stepped down. Why would he do that? And unfortunately, he's had no luck getting an answer out of Madara.

The two men sat in silence for a moment before it was interrupted by a brief knock on the door.

"Excuse me," a voice traveled from the other side of the door. The door slowly opened, revealing Isamu Uchiha. He walked in and bowed to greet Hashirama and Tobirama, who stood up from their seats to return the greeting. They then sat down at the table, ready to engage in conversation.

"Thank you for taking the time to meet with me, Lord Hokage, Lord Tobirama," Isamu said before they all dove into discussion. The men spoke about a multitude of things revolving around the affairs of the Uchiha clan and Konoha, each individual remaining respectful towards each other and showing genuine interest in each other's thoughts. These discussions went on for about thirty minutes before they shifted to another topic.

"But overall, Lord Hokage, Lord Tobirama, on behalf of the Uchiha clan, I assure you we will do the utmost to ensure peaceful collaboration and coexistence within Konoha," Isamu said.

Hashirama waved his hands in front of him and chuckled, attempting to create a more relaxing environment. "No need to be so formal, Isamu! The Uchiha clan is a valuable member of Konoha! Let's put the history of the previous era behind us and move forward. You are all our precious comrades, and together we can work toward protecting what matters the most: the village, and protecting the peace of everyone who resides here—men, women, and children!"

Isamu was a bit taken aback at Hashirama's nonchalance. He was always aware of how powerful and highly respected Hashirama was. Before Konoha, he had faced the Senju in battle multiple times and was always in awe to see Hashirama and Madara fight against each other at a level far beyond the rest of the clan. So once Isamu started to get to know Hashirama, he was not expecting such a boisterous, friendly, and goofy personality.

"I second everything Hashirama said," Tobirama added. He proceeded to ask about the status of the Military Police Force, which he and Isamu started to talk about in detail. Hashirama took this as an opportunity to zone out for the next few minutes as he looked over to the window and appreciated the vast blue skies. Oh, how nice it would be to be outside.

"Lastly, I wanted to talk about Madara Uchiha," Isamu said.

At the sound of Madara's name, Hashirama quickly turned his head back to face Isamu.

"What about him?" Hashirama asked in an unexpectedly serious tone. It was like Hashirama's whole demeanor shifted.

"As you know, Madara Uchiha stepped down as the leader of the Uchiha clan. I want to emphasize that any of Madara's actions moving forward are not associated with the Uchiha clan nor is it a representation of the sentiments or motives of the Uchiha clan in any way."

Oh? To Hashirama, it sounded like a very intentional statement, and he was curious to know what brought it about. He asked, "Why do you say that?"

Isamu continued, "I, along with other members of the clan, have been suspicious of Madara Uchiha's motives."

Tobirama's eyes narrowed. "Suspicious?"

"We think he may be plotting something, potentially bringing disorder to the village and perhaps beyond."

Hashirama's heart sunk at the words that escaped Isamu's mouth. However, Tobirama didn't even look a bit surprised, almost as if he expected to hear what Isamu said.

Isamu continued, "Madara Uchiha's behaviors have been questionable, I'd say more now than before. He stopped showing interest in the affairs of the clan and started distancing himself. We've noticed he disappears for long periods and time. Recently, I passed by Madara on his way out of the library with many books about dojutsu and the Sage of the Six Paths. What man, who has already attained and mastered the highest level of the Sharingan, the Eternal Mangekyo Sharingan, needs to do more research on dojutsu? It makes me believe that he's plotting something, something that may require whatever he's currently researching."

Tobirama brought his hand to his chin and started to reflect on Isamu's words. Indeed, it did sound suspicious, and all of it affirmed Tobirama's suspicions as well

Isamu continued, "And thus, I suggest we surveil Madara Uchiha as he may become a threat to the village."

Tobirama hummed in response. He's been wanting to do this for a while now and figured now was the best time to start before they missed anything. Tobirama responded, "I agree, surveillance on Madara Uchiha is necessary."

"That won't be necessary," Hashirama said.

Both Tobirama and Isamu turned to Hashirama, surprised by his opposition.

"But Hashi—"

"I said, that won't be necessary," Hashirama interrupted as he turned to Tobirama with a serious expression on his face, causing Tobirama to yield. Hashirama's face soon relaxed and he sighed, leaning back against his chair as he continued, "It's too soon to jump to conclusions without getting a clearer picture. How are we so sure of anything you two are suspecting? Besides, don't underestimate Madara. Do you think he wouldn't notice if you assigned someone to watch him?"

"With all due respect, Lord Hokage, I think we have enough evidence to validate our suspicions," Isamu argued.

Hashirama held his hand out and grinned. "Let me handle Madara. Don't worry about it, Isamu."

Isamu shifted in his seat. He wasn't expecting Hashirama to take this so lightly. He then glanced at Tobirama, who was silently staring at Hashirama with a critical gaze. Isamu let out a subtle sigh before turning back to Hashirama.

"Very well then. I trust that you will handle Madara Uchiha," Isamu responded, though reluctantly.

"Great!" Hashirama responded enthusiastically despite the tense aura that filled the room. There was a brief silence as the air in the room grew heavy until Hashirama lightened it up with his laughter. "Let's not be so tense guys! It's a beautiful day outside, a great time to be alive! There's no need to worry!"

Tobirama sighed while Isamu let out a brief chuckle.

"I suppose so," Isamu said, relaxing his tense shoulders. He supposed he should just leave things to the Hokage, acknowledging that he played his part for now in the matter. If Hashirama said he would handle it, then Isamu hoped that was the case. Besides, given Madara's caliber, there was no one else better to face him if worse came to worst.

"Are there any last things you wanted to bring up, Isamu?" Hashirama asked, eager to end the meeting soon.

"No sir."

"Wonderful, well—" Before Hashirama could bring things to an end, he remembered something. "Actually… Speaking of suspicions… Isamu, have you noticed any suspicious, almost like… foreign, presence around the area where you and most of the Uchiha clansmen live?" He was referring to that menacing presence he felt several days ago the evening he fixed Madara's door.

"Suspicious foreign presence?" Isamu gave it a thought, trying to recall whether he'd noticed anything lately. "I don't believe so."

"I see… Well, forget about it then! It was nice speaking with you today, Isamu," Hashirama said with a smile, trying not to raise any new worries among them. He wanted to believe he must've imagined it, but given how intense that feeling was, he hadn't been able to.

All three men stood up from their seats. Isamu bowed and said, "Thank you for your time today, Lord Hokage, Lord Tobirama. I look forward to working with you."

"Like I said, no need to be so formal," Hashirama responded with a smile, holding out his hand for a handshake. The men said their goodbyes before Isamu dismissed himself.

Once the door finally shut, Tobirama turned to Hashirama. "How exactly are you planning to handle Madara, brother?" he finally asked.

"Hmm…" Hashirama turned to face the window, taking in the view as he continued, "By getting to him and learning what's in his heart."

"Getting to him?"

"Yes, I can tell something is wrong with Madara, but I don't know what yet. So, I will keep trying to get to him until he opens up to me."

"Brother! How many times do I have to tell you that that tactic doesn't always work with people? You can't get to everybody. Sometimes you need to be cautious and resort to action. You can't always assume people are inherently good. Not everyone is willing to collaborate and walk the peaceful path you wish to take. If you keep thinking this way, people will take advantage of you."

"I know that, Tobirama. But I'm serious about this. I'll get to him. I can feel it."

Tobirama sucked his teeth. "You better not let your love for Madara cloud your judgment, Hashirama. You're the Hokage first."

"I'm well aware of that Tobi," Hashirama said as he looked over at Tobirama, who was giving him a stern look. He smiled and placed his hand on Tobirama's hair, ruffling it, "Why the long face, Tobi? You should stop being so serious all the time," he joked as he pinched Tobirama's cheek and continued, "It'll age you, you know?"

Tobirama swiped away Hashirama's hand. "Stop it. I'm not a child," he mumbled. "On different matters, what is this suspicious foreign presence that you speak of?"

"Oh, right. I meant to tell you earlier, but it slipped my mind. Probably because I haven't felt it since. But while I was at Madara's a few days ago, I felt something. Like something was there, something evil. It was only for a brief moment, but it was definitely there."

"Hmm…" Tobirama hadn't sensed anything out of the ordinary in the village, and he considered himself to be a skillful sensor-type ninja. Is there someone evading his senses? "Maybe we should deploy some ninjas to survey the village."

"I agree, let's do that."

"Right, I'll also keep a closer eye on things," Tobirama said as he started walking towards the door.

"I'll keep a lookout as well. Oh, and Tobirama, I was serious when I said not to send anyone to surveil Madara. Let me handle this."

Tobirama hummed in response as he exited the room.

Hashirama collapsed back down into his seat, letting out a deep sigh. This uneasy feeling started creeping into his chest again as he thought about how Madara was brought up in their meeting. Hashirama wasn't completely oblivious, he understood why Isamu and Tobirama would have their suspicions because he'd also noticed a shift in Madara. Could this be related to this answer of true peace Madara said he found? Was Madara up to something? Regardless, what Isamu and Tobirama, and probably what everyone else was failing to see, was that Madara was hurting. He could hear it in his voice, feel it when they exchanged fists, and see it on his face when he let his guard down. Madara could be sinking, trying to claw himself out of a dark abyss. Yet, he won't let Hashirama reach out and help. But Hashirama hasn't given up yet. He knows he'll be able to get to him. He'll make sure that he'll get to him. No matter what.

Hashirama glanced out the window, focusing again on the beautiful blue skies. He sighed at the thought of his busy schedule today. He also planned to check on Mito today but didn't have any high hopes about her speaking with him today. His days haven't been the best lately, but what made them worth it was seeing Madara, even if it was just for a moment.

"I can't wait to see Madara today…" Hashirama whispered to himself.

"Fuji, your mission is to keep an eye on Madara Uchiha and report any suspicious actions directly to me," Tobirama commanded. He was standing in his private office, speaking with a shinobi, who was kneeling in front of him. The man had long brown hair tied back into a low ponytail and pale eyes with a subtle lavender tint.

"Yes sir," Fuji Hyuga responded.

"I'm assigning you this mission because you're one of our best spies here in Konoha. Make sure Madara doesn't catch you. Understood?"

"Yes sir."

Tobirama paused for a moment, remembering the conversation he had with Hashirama earlier. He knew Hashirama didn't want surveillance on Madara, but he couldn't justify just sitting back.

"Is there anything else I need to know, Lord Tobirama?" Fuji asked.

"That is all. Don't underestimate Madara Uchiha. You and I are both aware of what he's capable of. Proceed with caution. Your mission starts now. You're dismissed."

"Yes sir!" Fuji responded before disappearing.

Tobirama sighed and thought, "I'm sorry, brother, but I must take the necessary precautions for the sake of the village."

Thanks for reading! Tune in for the next chapter! ~.^