Unplugged Heart
Uchiha Compound, third person:
No one dared move. No one dared to speak. Breathing already put one at risk of earning the ire of the leading family. Madara-Sama and Inzua-sama were fuming. Raging in their lividness that seemed to know no bounds. Tajibama, the male omega and patriarch of the clan followed close in their emotional footsteps.
“How the hell did this happen?” The first born screamed, yelling at his mother, the leading beta of the clan, Lady Valar. The very person tasked with keeping Sakura healthy, keeping her fed and providing her with everything she needed. “Do not swear at me” his mother responded, clam and collective, face reading that she’d rather be anywhere else but here. Her voice projecting her lack of care. Obviously board. “We sent her money. Fuck we had a portion taken out of every fucking mission paycheck. The clan was also being taxed to pay. Why was she living in such appalling conditions? Why the hell wasn’t she healthy?”
“Omegas are weak” one of the daughters in law said, twirling a stand of hair between the fingers of one hand even as she sat like perfect lady should. Even though she was far from it. “She was undeserving.”
“That was my fated mate” Inzua snarled at his arranged marriage partner, the mother of his four children. A women he had been forced into marrying. A supposed perfect Uchiha women. The snapping of his teeth as he paced not fazing the betas in the room. “There was no food in the house. The place was in ruins” Madara snapped at his mother, having long since reached his braking point. “Where wa the money you were sending?”
“Not my fault she eats like a pig or that’s shes a home wrecker.”
“The only home wreckers are your daughters in law. Minus Mikoto of course” Tajibama said, matter of factly, without any remorse. Arms folded over his chest and the lack of regret on his face only reinforced his words. The fake grasp of mixed surprise and outrage reached the ears. Tajibama never hid the fact that he hated the beta females his sons had married. He never allowed them to refer to him as father or even father in law, told under no circumstances that they could only refer to him by his formal title. Tajibama went as far as to forbade them from attending main family events. Things had degraded so bad over the years that family time was divided with the pups thrown in the middle. One side was the alphas, all males and the sons of the main head. On the other was the female betas. The only exception was Miktoto Uchiha, the chosen partner of the middle child Fugakoto. That omega was welcomed by the male clan head. It didn’t take a genius to see the difference between treatment of the daughters in law. Nor to pick up on the tension. Or rather hatred. “Excuse me. Remember we gave you grand kids.” The omega just snorted at Inzua’s wife, lifting his head up in smite. As much as the man hated his daughters in laws he didn’t blame the children that came from the arraigned union.
“If I hadn’t been forced into this arrangement” Inzua sneered, “Sakura would be here safe and sound. Not half starved and in the Senju’s hands.” His wife looked hurt but the reaction was an act and nothing more. No love existed between Madara and his wife nor in Inzua’s relationship. “I saw the decrepited mannor” Tajibama addressed his wife, “where was all the money going that we sent her? Why was there no food in the house? Where were the servants? And don’t tell me you don’t know” he glared directly at his arranged partner as well. All three generations unable to escape the brutal reality of arraigned marriages that benefited no one but the betas and the outdated ideology of having a pure Uchiha bloodline. “Answer me Valar.” Dispite the fact that order came from the rightful clan head, born and raised by the previous clan heads the beta just rolled her eyes. “How should I know.”
Tajibama shot to his feet in blind rage, shouting at his beta partner, the two desolving into a heated argument. “Mark my words Yuno. Junko. If I find out you had a hand in her suffering I will kill you both.”
“Kin slaying is illegal” Inzua’s wife, Jumko reminded him, not bothered with the threat. She was a beta with a strong backing, having both a father and uncle on the council of elders. One of the reasons Valar had been so keen to marry her second born too. Madara went to open his mouth, preferably to argue only to be tugged on by his third brother. Inzua and him were pulled out of the room by the duo who didn’t answer any questions let alone acknowledge the elders protests. Fugakoto and Mikoto not letting them go until the noise canceling and security sealing tags were in place in the couples home. Safe ground to talk freely on. “What the hell?”
“Eldest brother” the female began, “fighting will not get us anywhere. We need to be smart about this.”
“The clan is at odds” the third in line said, the last remaining younger brother out of seven. Folding his arms over his chest and leaning against the wall he contuined saying his piece, “the clan is in an uproar about Sakura-Sama and no one is willing to give them information let alone put them at ease. The omegas have always backed her even after her dishonorable eviction and ever since then…I don’t need to tell you the clan is not in harmony.” The fellow alpha sighs. “You know I always liked Sakura. She was a gentle soul that cared only for others. The three of you were truly perfect together…. I’m so disgusted at her treatment. Leaving her out there like that. All alone. Struggling just to make it by. And I’m sure the damage to her living quarters wasn’t just from the Senju’s infiltration nor the resulting battle. I am angry on her behalf. I am angry at her mistreatment and abandonment but fighting won’t get us anywhere.” It was not often the man spoke let alone so much. “Causing a ruckus may let off some steam but it won’t fix what happened” Mikoto tacked on, wringing her hands together. The pair had adored Sakura dispite the large age gap, seeing the younger women as a younger sibling. Sakura, an expert sower, had been sought after by the older women to make Mikoto’s wedding outfit. Helped make the blankets in the home as well as the curtains. Sakura used to go over to thier house for tea and snacks after the buildings completion. “We need a plan to get Sakura out” Mikoto murmured, brining her hand up to touch her chin as she thought. “Pointing fingers won’t get us anywhere. Esspically when we don’t have evidence. Not that it really matters when none of the beta’s will do anything.” And she wasn’t wrong. Many of Mikoto’s class hated the oink haired beauty simply because she came in and disputed the social order. Unintentionally she temporarily ended the cycle of the main branch alphas marrying power beta’s. She was the beacon of light for the suppressed alphas of the clan, giving them voice and showing them there was more than birthing children and keeping home. Her firey personality and no nonsense attitude screamed I was not going to be suppressed nor take orders and they flocked to her. As she changed the heir and the heir to be the trio proved to be a prime example on how to live in harmony and in love with a mate. Therefor challenging beta power.
“There is no telling what the Senju will do to her” Fugakoto says, “they will likely use her as a liability now that Inzua chased Senju-sama across the battlefield.”
“Fucking sorry. But what was I supposed to do? Run her through with a blade to get through to him?”
“Ofcourse not” Madara snapped, not appreciating the younger man’s attitude. “I couldn’t throw chakara his way either. My attack might’ve hit her.”
“Brothers” Mikoto touched their folded arms gently. She might not be their mate, but she hopped her touch would at least ground them so rational thinking could prevail. “It doesn’t matter now. Her relationship to us is pretty self explanatory” Madara murmured, letting out a deep sigh. “Hashirama is no sadist. He might take her hostage but I doubt he’ll hurt her.”
Inzua scoffed, “speak for your own rival. Tobirama has a mean steak and he likes to draw blood. He’ll show her no mercy brother.” That sent chills down the women’s spine. To think that her innocent sister would be subjected to horrible torture methods caused her heart to quack in fear. “What do we do?”
“Aniki?” Fugakoto said, addressing his oldest sibling. “If you can speak to Hashirama do you think you can convince him to let her go?”
“Its a thought” Inzua said, pondering the option on the table. “You’ll have to send the message through a neutral source. And get the tree hugger to come with her alone. If Tobirama gets involved…”
“I‘ll write to him. Make him understand that she has to be returned.”
“You’re not seriously going to tell him Sakura’s your mate?” Mikoto spoke up, hands writhering together nervously. “They already know she’s important at least to Inzua and although he’s never gone out of his way to hurt Inzua he doesn’t have a bond with him like we do. For the sake of old times, for our friendship I will ask him to hand her over.”
“And if he doesn’t?” Inzua said, uncrossing his arms as he stopped leaning against the wall. Attitude long since gone in the face of reasonable decision making. Knowing that anger would not get the four anywhere. Madara turned to the four, having looked off to space a moment ago as he spoke, as if imaging the future. “Then we fight.”
Sakura:
Awakening to a pair of strong arms was a unfamiliar, welcoming, new experience. Before being snatched away to the Uchiha compound all those years ago as a fresh, newly blossomed young women; the only physical kindness I had known was the arms of my sisters. My mind may remind me that my former Uchiha mates once held me close but reality hits hard as the memory twists and corrupts to remind me what happened. Opening emerald eyes I find Butsuma Senju hugging me tight. My head rested his blossom as I slept, his body heat flowing into my as we laid on my cot. He was still fast asleep. Butsuma-Senju was nothing like his heritage enemy depicted him as, they called him blood thirty, a monster with cruelty that knew no bounds. One that never slept or had a sliver of mercy.
Nurses, too many to keep of who was who, I was ever good at names, filtered in and out of my shared room as feigned sleep. Sleep didn’t come easy even at this time of night. My kind care givers tryed to be quiet yet not hesitate to poke and prod with sharp objects, waking me up at all hours of the night. I was jelious of the heirs, they slept through it all.
Tobirama-sama and Hashirama-Sama, I couldn’t look at them outside of stolen glances when they weren’t looking. How could I look at them? My mind couldn’t unpack all that had occurred, too many events, too much chaos, to much loss and so many questions. My hopes and dreams of no longer feeling pain, of being loved and safe, of starting a family; I thought that was all dashed. No burned to crips after I realized I had been left to rot. Now here I was with hot food, safe behind large gates that remained unwavering against any threat with Shinobi inside willing to die to defend those within. I had a bed of my own with a soft mattress and blankets. A heater just for me to keep the cold at bay. Hashirama and Tobirama came into my life like gods send. Gifts from above.
Yet even as happyness battled with…reservation…hesitation…fear… I felt deep guilt. At one point I had begged to the stars above for help, for a savior, but never at the costs of human lives. The Uchiha guard’s had lost their lives protecting me. The once reunited sibling pair was divided. Hashirama-Sama and Tobirama-Sama laid in bed injured. Although it could be argued that the lives lost during the last boarder attack between the two groups wasn't my fault, it still felt like it. Guilt clawed at my heart, breaking it. I may not like the Uchiha but I never wished death on them.
“Sakura-sama?” A kind nurse brought me out of my internal strife, catching me off guard and red handed even as she spoke softy and quietly. The light haired brunette clutched a clip board to her chest as she bent over slightly, making her self look less like a threat but not pushing too much into my personal space. “How are you feeling?” Refusing to look her in the eye I murmured “I’m alright.” Choosing to instead to look into the flame of a three fourths of the way burned candle. “Are you in pain?”
“No” what ever was attached to what was explained to me as an IV kept the pain away. Made me groggy but it was worth it. My eyes fixated on the curtain covered window. “Are you hungry” my stomach made up my decison by advertising my bodies needs with a rumble. Instead of being ridiculed, shamed or beaten for my basic human body requirements she smiled kindly, having caught her response when embarrassment made me look her way. Disregarding the darkness outside, signaling the time of night she promised a snack. Leaving in near silent steps from the shared room. I hope I wasn’t going to get into trouble.
“Sakura-sama” staring off into space I missed her returning with a steaming bowl of rice and plate of sliced meat. Even as my mouth watered and stomach begged to be filled my mind replayed all the terrible images of her being punished for such a transgression. Most clans, winter or not was possessive of their food. Everyone had their place, everyone pulled their weight. But I wasn’t an Senju and had no right to their food nor had contributed anyway to thier survival unless one counted stealing thier medical supplies and time. A nibble on my lip by my upper jaw must’ve given away my negative thoughts. Ones plagued with her being beaten. What if she used her own portions? “Sakura-Sama?”
“I won’t eat your food” as the kind nurse tilted her head to show her confusion I begged her internally to understand. Her kindness was touching but I couldn’t ask her to go without a meal. “What are you talking about? Arn’t you hungry?” I nodded even as I wished I didn’t. But honestly was the least I could give back for her generosity. “Then please eat.” That smile was back as she pressed the tray into my hands. Already having helped me sit up earlier. “But- but - but….”
“Whats the matter?” Tobirama-sama was looking at me, unable to sit up do to his wounds but still awake none the less with his head turned this way. “I’m sorry” I eeped out. “I woke you up.”
“You’re fine. Don’t panic. Whats wrong?”
“Please my lady” there was that title again. Why were these Senju so hell bent on giving me something I had not done a thing to deserve. I been born into any power. It was all so confusing. Yet they refused even when I asked them not too. “She won’t eat” the nurse tattled when I didn’t answer and the second born son inquired again. “I don’t deserve-“ only to seal my mouth with a slap of the hand over my lips, green eyes catching her confused and wide eyed look. “Nonsense. Everyone deserves to eat.”
“So do you” keeping quiet went out the window as I rushed out the words. The very ones that had threatened to break free ever since the terrible night at the lab. “You won’t eat if I eat your food.”
“Sakura-sama this isn’t my food and even if it was I’d be happy to give it to you.” What? Then whose food was I eating? “Sakura” the heir to be called out quietly mindful of his throbbing headache and the other occupants physical need for sleep, “eat. Please.”
“I don’t deserve to eat” I murmured even as my eyes landed on the still warm tray. The Senju had done more than enough. They gave me a roof over my head and a warm heater to keep the cold from reaching me. How shameful it was that I had nothing in return. No! I shook my head. I would repay there kindness. As soon as I was better I’d work my hands to the bone to repay them. I’d be good!
“Sakura?” A new voice, sensing movement and feeling it I found Butsuma sitting up besides me. “Here eat your food. That way you’ll get stronger and feel better.”
“I don’t deserve-“ he cut me off, a single finger to my lips cutting off my protest. Not out of rudeness but tender care. As if he could sense by internal distress he smiled down at me, giving my cheek a gentle nuzzle. A comforting gesture. “None of that nonsense. Eat while it’s warm. Remember you are one of us now. Let us take care of you.” Tears welling in my eyes, I lost all will to fight. Lifting a shaky hand I delivered a small bite of rice to my mouth, relishing in the warmth, taste and nutrition. I couldn’t place the type of meat but it was delicious. The warmth of the meal warming the rest of me. I hadn’t even realized I had closed my eyes until I found the clan head and nurse smiling at me. “Feel better?”
“Yup” I smiled, eyes closed at the women’s question. Small snacks or meals was perfect for me. More than I was used to. Everything was warm, perfectly cooked and delivered to me in bed. “Alright now to keep your fluids up I want you to drink this entire cup” she motioned to the cup I didn’t even see her set down. “Remember you were dehydrated when you first arrived at camp. We don’t want a repeat so it’s important that you drink plenty.” Dutifully I sipped, having been scolded and suffered the consequences one to many times to do so again. “Great. Why don’t you go back to sleep” the nurse encouraged, “its still rather early yet and I’m sure your still tired.”
“Walk?”
“Later” she assured me with a little laugh, Butsuma chuckling as well at my euthasiam. “Your just like Tobi, can’t sit still for a moment.”
“I would like to inform you that I am currently laying still and am able to hear you” he sent a glare at his father who only threw his head back and laughed, leaving me giggling along.
Life in the Senju compound was drastically different than life in the Uchiha clan. Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. No one shot angry, hatred filled glances my way. Or made snide comments behind my back. No one wished death on my person. Or tried to harm me. My memory had long since lost count of how many times I had been poisoned, tripped or had attempts on my life in the Uchiha compound. Everyday I had to listen to the betas tell me how to be proper omega; quiet, docile, submissive, an individual with no rights. Just a person that spread their legs. But they made no mistake in telling me I couldn’t bear any Uchiha children. The Uchiha bloodline had to be pure. The right to motherhood was only allowed if you were an Uchiha. Honor killings were nothing to scoff at. But here omegas talked freely and came and went as they pleased, even had professions, owned property, earned their own paychecks. A shock but no less a welcomed sight.
Observing the omegas I had been exposed to so far went on for a week before I got questioned by one of them. Although I felt uneasy about being caught staring I answered their equally uncomfortable inquires. My wide eyed look apparently was something that attracted their attention earlier. Personal confusion lead to a lot of questions and their own shock and outrage. In my defense I was socially awkward and hadn’t been exposed to a lot of good people. The only long term relationships I had were with my adoptive sisters.
Butsuma might’ve not been in the room to hear what I had to say but his sons had been present. And what I had to say did not make them happy. Hashirama made such a stink, enough that he drew the attention of Jaun. The latter not being pleased in the least bit with the majority of the nursing staff standing around in one room when it didn’t require medical attention. He sent them unhappily packing, promises to hear more reaching my ears. Apparently, as I leaned the hard way, gossip traveled fast and before I knew it he was storming back into the room and holding me tight to him as if his mere presence would scare all the bad in the world away.
“You have been very distracted today” said alpha doctor remarked during one of his daily visits. Weither he self assigned or was ordered to by the clan heads, my care rested fully in his trained, experienced medical hands. Yes nurses also cared for me, but decisions were made with my consent but with his knowledge and advice. “My lady is everything ok?”
“I’ve been here for a week…”
“Over a week actually. Combining the time before… well” he wasn’t lost for words but like him no one seemed to want to mention or explain what happened that night. “Any way what’s up?” He was always more gentle with me than with the heirs. Either he was too comfortable with them or knew them that well because he could professionally harass them and still get work done. “Just thinking.”
“About the differences between the two clans? I remember that conversation” returning to work he moved his glowing hands, which never ceased to fascinate me; to another area of my body. “I’m sorry for getting them into trouble.”
“It’s not your fault” he had a reassured me multiple times. I had also apologized to the nurses who like Jaun just brushed it off. Maybe because nothing bad had happened as a result. I didn’t want to be the result of anyone’s draw out agony or delayed care. “Why is everyone so nice to me?”
“You want us to be mean?” He lifted an eye brow and his head, clearly questioning my sanity. “I’m mean to Hashirama-Sama. If only he would listen and stay in bed then I wouldn’t have to be.” A sigh leaves his lips, clearly exasperated with the contuined need to corral the other male back into his own cot. “He means well” I placated taking neither side. “I can hear you” the older male shouts. Juan merely rolled his eyes. At least the younger brother didn’t tack on “that’s what I said.”
“He does” he agreed, “I’d just wish he’d listen to someone other than you, his father and mother and Tobirama-sama. Even though he means well and has others best interest at heart he needs to show some self concern.” That was an interesting fact. Hashirama was a mixture of a big teddy bear and puppy that called his human form home. He was sweet and generous. If one world could be used to describe it would be energetic. The heir pouted when told to stay in bed. Or loudly complained, making a scene and causing trouble for our caretakers. His brother just smacked himself on the face, rolling his eyes at the male he called Aniji. When the latter former found out about my reluctance to partake in substance consumption, and have no clue how, he started giving me his entire plate of food. Uncaring that it was destined for him or that there was no way I could’ve realistically finished the overflowing plate. After all alphas traditionally had larger appetites, higher metabolisms I remember someone telling me some time ago. “Why does he listen to me?”
“Because its you” he shouts taking the stage from the doctor. Tobirama-sama says something from the other side of the room, on the other side of Hashirama. Only for the elder to break out laughing. “Please remember this is a hostipal and not a play ground.”
“Does that mean I can leave?” Hashirama asks, playful voice reaching us from behind the privacy curtain. One I had asked been pulled closed during examinations and checkups after being stared at so intently I felt goosebumps down my spine. “No.”
“Boo” he protested. “Sakura-Sama he wont behave” Jaun complains to me as if I have any say over the others behavior. It was already weird enough that he listened to me, no protests, no sassy replies, nothing. Just listens automatically. Now I was being dragged in the middle. “Don’t look at me” I say, at loss with the situation.
”How is she?” Tobirama calls. Pulling back the curtain Jaun reassured the older man that I was in good health considering all I had been through. I was truly lucky to have two caring alphas. Even as I was grateful my mind recalled the pain Madara and Inzua caused, my heart pounding rapidly as fear of the unknown returned. I didn’t lie, I had truly been distracted by the differences between both clans, but what kept me awake at night was the fear of the unknown. A mental blocker kept the white haired man from reading my thoughts. From honing in on my internal fear of abandonment. Something he had remarked on multiple times. I was scared of being abused and hurt again. Everything was too fresh. It would never not be fresh. Without a return bite no omega could read or feel the emotions of their significant other. I may never bite him back of Hashirama let alone let the latter bite me but their patient kindness didn’t go unnoticed. No force nor pressured had been directed my way giving me minimal hope.
“Your turn Hashirama-Sama” Jaun said, approaching the other man. “Want your curtain pulled?”
“Nope” Hashirama laid back, existing his sitting up position and laying down flat on his back. Hands behind his head in a relaxed position, not bothered with being the next ginny pig. “If I pass does this mean I get to be free?”
“You yes. Considering your healing abilities have kicked back in. Your brother and Sakura-Sama, no.” Hashirama pouted, “no fair.”
“Totally fair” the medic replies as he washes his hand in the bathroom sink. “Sakura-sama isn’t fully healed and neither is Tobirama-Sama. Plus she needs to put on a lot more weight until she’s released.” It was true. As much as I was able to say awake longer, had more energy and strength I failed to gain the desired weight needed nor was completly healed from my previous abandonment. Going to bathroom required someone’s help and walking on my own was out of the question. Madara’s and Inzua’s neglectful desertion had been explained to me after my near death and our encounter in the lab. That was a week and half ago but I still couldn’t wrap my head around it.
”Sakura-sama” a nurse appeared, bowing polity. “A merchant arrived in the compound. He is demanding to speak to you posthaste.”
“Who is this?” Tobi asked, the white haired man sitting up, facial features twisting in pain. “Stop moving” I cried, watching him freeze before turning to look at me. Taking his eyes off the newly arrived nurse. “What does he want with her?” Hashirama demanded, sitting up in bed as Jaun also turned to address his subordinate. “My lord the mans name is Nano.”
I sat up so fast I almost got whiplash even as I pulled on my wounds. “I know him. He’s a friend” a smile nearly broke my face, that’s how big I smiled. Elation pumped through my veins. “He gave me my figures” I shared with my mates and doctor. “His apprenticeship was in carpentry but he married into a merchant family. His family gave me extra food and supplies during tough winters so that I would make it through.”
“I see” Jaun said, the only one to reply. Filling the silent room awkwardly. “Tobirama-Sama, Hashirama-Sama. Please allow me to see him. He’s the only friend I’ve had for all these years. I miss him.”
Hashirama:
Sakura was gushing over this unseen male. Was he an alpha? Beta? What did he look like? Act like? Sakura was practically jumping up and down in her bed, rumpling the covers, causing the metal of the bed frame to creak. “Can I please talk to him?” Unbeknownst to her or maybe it was done purposely she was begging, looking at us pleadly. Something hot and unpleasant arose in my chest. Feeling some unknown emotion but not one welcomed or liked. “No.”
Sakura’s face fell. “No?” Her voice was a bear whisper as if she was afraid to miss what she wanted to hear even as she called into my question my previous answer. “No.”
“Why” she sounded so sad. I didn’t want her to be sad. But I didn’t want her to be in the same room as him let alone think about him. “Because” I snapped, catching her off gaurd, not stopping even when she winced, “Jaun said you are not allowed out of the hospital and I’m certainly not going to permit him inside where those most at risk are.” Why couldn’t she understand? Why was this mystery man so important that she would contunisly protest? “No!” Sakura jumped back as if I had burned her. Eyes welling with an emotion I refused to acknowledge. Sensing Tobi about to speak I held up my hand to stop him. “Tell him I said no” I directed those words at the nurse. The very one who scurried out of the room.
For several moments she looked at me. Before looking any where but in my direction. My omega turned on her side so she faced the far wall, drawing the covers over her head. Part of me felt terrible but the bigger part of me was sastifed.
’Fine be that way’ I thought moodly, turning to rest on my back. “Anji?” Turning to address my closest brother I found him torn between looking at me and Sakura. “What?” My resulting snap shocked even me. His own red eyes enlarging at my response. “I-…Never mind.”
Jaun proceeded with his exams. Even though I passed with flying colors I didn’t leave the room for quite some time. Winter weather outside played no part in my decision. Nor did the never ending pile of paperwork surly waiting for me on my desk. The unsettling emotion remained even though it was felt to a lesser degree.
Without my Outo to keep me in line. Without an immediate overseer. Baby sitter Toka had teased one day. I was free to do as I pleased. With this itching under my skin I turned to the training grounds for relief. Being the time of year as it was the place was relatively deserted. From being forced to lay still so long, from helping pun the clan, help and fight in the war and all the stress from finding my mate and take care of her, I had what felt like the weight on my shoulders. Destroying the world around me was a perfect way to let it all out.
Well well well” throwing knifes hit the wooden target in front of me, the resulting thumping reaching my ears the same time a familiar voice did. Turning around I found my uncle, my father’s last remaining sibling standing in his full, old man glory. Tall in his own right, the six foot two alpha approached, hands tucked deep into pockets, bald head shielded from external tempature by a fur lined hat. A thick jacket kept the rest of him warm and dry in the elements. According to passed down stories of my fathers childhood, father was always the older, responsible one where the alpha in sight was a rebel that liked to be out all night and pick fights with those around every corner. “They let you out of prison.”
Despite everything I snickered. Partly our of humor, partly of just rawness. Or what I received to be as raw emotion. “Where’s your keeper?” He also had a knack for being annoying. Why ask a question you already knew the answer to. Because my Outo had almost died, had most of his chest patched up, was under strict supervision. Because he was on bed rest until further noice. “No response? So boring.”
“Uncle why do you ask such dumb questions when you already know the answer?” The answer I get? A mere hum, a low sound escaping his lips, barely a response. I was not in the mood for this. “Whats got you so riled?” He asked, smoothly changing topics. “It’s not like you to get angry.”
“Just letting go of a little steam.”
“Not from what I see. I doubt your face is red just from exertion” he leaned against the tree as if the conversation wasn’t touchy. Almost as if we were just admiring the weather. Yet he kept crawling under my skin more and more with each word.
“Uncle as much as I love you-“
“And that is why you are out here destroying the landscape” it was if it was his mission to piss me off. He was certainly succeeding. “What do you mean?”
“Just hours ago a random alpha comes into the picture. Granted one you had never met and your mate thinks fondly of him and you became jealous.” I just look at him, caught off gaurd from the one thing I didn’t think he’d ever say. Then the rage was back. I was not jealous! What was there to be jealous of? A unknown figure? “Stop lying to me boy.” His words brought me out of my stupor. Had I really just spoke out loud? “Your scent screams rage and envy. I may not know your mate but from what I hear she’s not the cheating kind.”
“What the hell are you talking about?” I didn’t know which accusation I was more pissed off about; the fact that he implied my mate was romantically interested in this unmet figure or that I was jealous of said person. Rumbling snarls erupted from my chest as my rage peaked. My chakra responding in kind, the trees swaying threatening.
“Are you serious Hashirama?” Why is he looking at me like I’d lost my mind. “For being the most emotional and emphatic out of all the heirs your being quiet the idiot right now. Your mate was happy to meet an old friend, you storm off after denying her. Doesn’t take a genius to figure out what’s going on.” Jealousy. No I couldn’t be jealous. I had no reason to be- “Your an idiot.”
Never had I ever been envious of another. As a shinobi, there was no room in profession for such an emotion. As Hashirama-Senji, I had everything a person could ever want or need. The Senju clan was thriving. Financially, we were one of the most stable clans, attracting large clients and many missions. Leading to a surplus this year, somthing the elders were very pleased with. Our large territory afforded us the land needed to farm and rely less on merchants. Our trade was relatively strong. Could be better but after a few failed business ventures we could’ve come out worse. Many omegas were expecting, ten to be exact. My clan was safe. All four of my siblings were alive as were my parents and last remaining cousin and uncle. Sakura was now by my side. Safe and recovering. My heart craved nothing more. I was finally complete.
Rubbing at my chest as my uncle stared me down, not only did the wood around us calm but so did I. “Envious?”
Shaking his head he left his leaning spot against the tree to approach. Hands coming up to rest against my shoulder. “It’s alright, Hashirama. It’s natural to have these feelings.”
“I don’t even know him or what he looked like.” The thought peetered off. Like that would make a difference. “He showed up this morning unexpectedly. You know as well as I do that most merchants don’t travel in the winter. “ I nodded. “His name is Nano, he was once a merchant that worked with the Uchiha, the one to bring Sakura her supplies.” I listened closely, ears straining to hear over the growing wind. “He had braved the weather to deliver her supplies despite the fact the Uchiha didn’t pay for them upfront.”
“Why?”
Ignoring my question he contuined, “he found debris left behind after the battle that bore out clans symbol.” There wasn’t a clan that came to mind that didn’t imprint their clans symbol on property. It was simply common practice. Just like when we went into battle, every shinobi regardless of status had the Senju icon on their armor. “He rushed over here, hoping to find her. Hoping she was ok.”
“Why?” I’d wish he answer my question. Basic information was find and dandy. A replay of the days earlier events was great and all but I wanted my nagging questioned answered. “The older gentleman was practically in tears. He’s a normal human, Hashirama, not an alpha or beta or omega. For him to travel in dangerous conditions for her shows how much he cares for her. Any way he begged your father for any information on her. Butsuma reassured him she was in our care and was recovering. I was there for this entire stint and not once did he imply they were anything more than friends.” There were rumors that omegas did something’s take human mates regardless that the omega would outlive them. Likely they did so or rather the speculation was they were attempting to escape bad alphas. Legally a male could claim an omega regardless of gender in court. Effectively taking them as a mate even if they couldn’t physically and mentally mark the other. Somthing that was rare and even more rarely deterred bad alphas. “He was very informative about Sakura’s life before us.”
“Go on.” My voice was low. The weather was turning for the worse but I wasn’t moving until I heard what he had to say. Tobi might be the most stubborn out of all four of us but I refused to budge on this. “The Uchiha’s matriarch took her out there on false pretenses. Telling Sakura a bullshit story only to lock her inside the gates. Valor told her she was a problem, a threat to the clans purity and threat to the betas rule hence she was being banished to the country side. When sakura protested Valor lied to her further and told her she hadn’t been abondoned but rather that her males agreed to such a stupid fucking idea to keep the peace. They would be visiting soon. Surprise surprise they never did, instead married less than a week later.” Ever since finding Sakura, every time I had heard of my old friend my anger grew. What kind of alpha left their omega out in the wilderness? Left them so close to danger without proper protection? Barely enough to eat? With minimal clothing and blankets to keep warm? My mind recalled the manors conditions. Disgusting. We’d used to talk about our mates when were ten at the river side. Speculating for hours about our futures. He threw it all away. So fast. Without an ounce of remorse. It felt like I didn’t even know him. My heart broke at each piece of information. “ No one sensed any ill intentions.”
“He confessed that easily? How does he know all this? Why tell us this?”
My uncle patted his upper body, obviously cold as he looked around. “No one interrogated him necessarily just asked him what he wanted. Why he was outside our gates? He threw himself at your dad’s feet when he appeared. Begging to see her. Begging us to not hurt her. We escorted him to the communal halls where we reassured him she was alright. Nano-San calmed down and was more than willing to answer our own questions. We asked him the same thing, how’d he knew all this. Sakura had confided him many a years ago. Apparently, this angered him enough that he thought about breaking off trade with the Uchiha who are apparently their biggest clients. He divulged that all on his own. When we asked why he didn’t he told us plan as day that he did it for her. Feared the Uchiha not feeding or clothing her.”
“They could’ve sent someone else” speculate words left my throat as I turned to stroll back to the compound. I might’ve missed my uncles relieved look had I moved any quicker. Truth be told I was also getting cold. Training and blood flow kept one so warm for so long. “He was afraid for her safty. Didn’t exactly trust another not to traffic her or hurt her.”
“He knew the boarder guards didn’t do regular check ins on her. Meaning anyone at anytime could harm her. It would’ve been the perfect oppertunity to rape or kidnap her. Physically hurting would’ve been easy” my uncle tacked on. Just the thought of all that could’ve happened sent chills down my spine. “What stopped anyone from doing otherwise anyway?”
“Surprisingly, the Uchiha and that merchant were the only ones to know how to find Sakura. Lucky for her as unintentional as it was.” This whole fucking situation was a shit show. A joke. A sharade. Disgust flowed through my veins. How could Madara allow this to happen? Does he not understand? How did he not comprehend the density of the situation? My old friend was no fool. He’d just simply up and abondoned her when it became convenient for him and Inzua. They why take her in to begin with? To many questions rickade around my brain brining on a headache. “The medics did an exam on her when she first entered camp. There was no signs of sexual or physical assault minus the scares she bore from years prior.”
“We asked him about that.” My uncle began, rubbing the back of his neck as the conversation turned uncomfortable even for us shinobi, only to blow on the two palms in the next minuet. “This is where he began to get reluctant. As much as pushed he refused to answer. Only said to talk to her, something about being confided in and willing to die than snitch.” Qualities like that were rare, self sacrifice, unwavering loyalty, compassion. Unfortunately, in this world it was every man for themselves. Even ninja belonging to clans were known to turn their backs on their kin. Money, fame, omegas, once good people turned traitors for the stupidest of reasons. “How gallant.”
“Sarcasm doesn’t suit you, nephew” he murmured we trudged through the growing snow back to the compound. Mother was pacing at the back gate to the complex. Looking agitated and cussing about the weather conditions. Her life mates were huddled together, sharing body heat as they watched her wear down the snow under her feet. “Hashirama!” She shouted as soon as we came into sight. “Where the fuck have you been? What the hell have you done?” Biological mother or not my ear was pulled and brutally tugged. “Answer me pup!”
“Mother! I-ow. Please let go.” Why was she being so unforgivingly brutal right now? This hurt! “Boy you are in deep trouble.” My uncles and the two gaurds watched me be dragged through the freshly opened doors. The traitors more than wiling to open them in favor of some good entertainment in this bleak season. “I haven't done anything” I protested, walking with my head titled to avoid putting anymore pressure on my poor ear than necessary considering she wasn’t going to let me go anytime soon. “I don’t even know what you’re talking about.”
Taken against my will to the clan heads office was not how I expected my day to go. Being slapped in the face with a jealously accusation and a second accusation of trouble making meant my day was not going good. Father sat at his desk, the space around the desk filled by Toka, Itma, Kawamara, and the council of elders. Things were never good when the elders were involved. I hated them just as much as the old bags despised me. The only missing person was Tobi meaning I couldn’t space out because he wouldn’t be giving me notes to review later. Pushed into my seat directly to my fathers right was embarrassing enough but mother had the gull to hiss at me to stay put. Taking her own seat on father’s other side. “Hashirama-sama” sell proclaimed wise elder Fush began, ‘I think it’s time we sat down and address recent events.” Sitting like a man of status, with a wave of hand he referenced the civilians around him. “The elders have not been filled in and seeing as you have been released from doctors care its about time we spoke is it not?” Ah, they cornered father and here we are. Rolling my eyes only got my scolded but refusing made my headache throb more. “Let me give you the quick picture. Tobi and I found our mate sick and dying. Yes, she is the former mate of Inzua and Madara Uchiha prior to their deliberate negligence. After our successful initial breech into Uchiha territory they retaliated. Sakura nearly died. Some blank spots in the memory but now Tobi and Sakura are doing much better. I have been released from medical care as you claim and here we are.” My uncle snickered, making a pitiful attempt to pass if off as a cough though he fooled no one. Snarky sass was Tobi’s thing not mine. “You will meet my mate with the rest of the clan” I interjected when another elder opened their mouth to speak. Rude maybe but rather to get this done quickly than draw it out. “When she is healthy. There will be zero harassment, zero barging in unannounced or without permission” I stared each elder down, my scent flaring protectively to make my point known. I had good reasons to set these boundaries. “Hashirama-sama!” Elder Akemi exclaimed as if insulted, a hand pressed to her chest. “We wouldn’t dare.”
”Any questions?” Get on with it. I wanted to see Sakura. “Please take this more seriously” the first speaker asked or rather politely demanded, barely able to hide his intensions. Sitting prim and proper was a truly pitiful move to make himself look more important and powerful. “The council has already been updated on what occurred on the battlefield. You obviously still need a lesson on manners and the importance of communication. A task for another day…” Him and I had always been at odds, he was a huge pain in the ass. Constantly challenging fathers authority and mine since I was old enough to have a say in clan affairs. Father and I had complained to each other on multiple occasions about him. Venting would have to wait. Just as it didn’t look I was going to be getting away anything soon. “We know nothing of Sakura-Sans history other than rumors. We know nothing of her breeding-“
“Excuse me” my voice rose, “she lies in bed recovering from intentional neglect and betrayal, starvation and exposure to the elements and your worried about getting her pregnant right off the fucking back? Her health and well being are more important!” The elder tsked, just tsked. “Control your son, Butsuma-Sama.”
Mother sent my a look that said control your self. Toka shifted her weight,ready to get to her own feet. My uncle put a weighed yet ground hand on my shoulder. “Control yourself” father remarked, giving the alpha a glare sharp enough to cut ice. “I suggest you know your place. It is Sakura-sama not San. There will be no second generation heirs until the trio are ready.”
“You obviously misunderstand” the man said, “I was merely referring to her heritage. Who are her parents? What class were they? Siblings? Purity is a must.” Murmors arose from a couple other elders. Others split off into a splitter group to whispered among themselves. “She is an orphan. Didn’t know her parents” I answered, taking my seat against my better judgment and emotions. I would’ve preferred for my height and chakra abundancy to give me an edge or an intimidation factor but the elders grew up with me and knew I might snarl but wouldn’t dare harm them. “Sakura never slept with either Uchiha.”
“We do not doubt your world Lord Hashirama-“ Elder Polk spoke up, interjecting for the first time in the conversation. But as a known ally of Fush, it was no surprise the alpha would back the other. “But Sakura-Sama’s credibility remains to be proven.”
“Are you suggesting that we subjugate a traumatized omega to a invasive exam just to please your curiosity?” My father’s voice was dark, low and threatening. As an omega that could fight he saw himself a protector. He would stand in the way of any alpha or beta seeking it harm an omega. Man, women or child, they would have to through him to get to the innocents. Akemi and her sister looked outraged as did Elder Toula and and Elder Kearsey. “How dare you!” The omega Elder Toula ragged, rising to his feet rapidly, quick for a non-combatant.
“Over my dead body” I shouted, being grabbed by my uncle. Fellow alpha likely having intrepid my jumping to my feet as desire to rip the other alpha to thread. He wouldn’t be wrong. Toka had grabbed my father to prevent the same. “Listen you fucker. No ones touching anyone. She stays intact or not” mother got in his face, hands clenched at her side threatenly. Her life mates each taking a side and advancing on the two elders. “Now now” elder Fush said, holding his hands up in a placating manner. “No need to get upset.”
“You touch my mate and I will kill you” emotions running rampet; rage, fear, aggression. How dare they! The floor boards creaked even as no one moved. Sharp teeth snapped even though I couldn’t reach my adversaries. “Get out” Kearsey screamed, the beta practically throwing them out of the office.
Tobi was staring wide eyed at me when I stormed in to the shared room. Nurses and doctors alike cleared the way, making my enterce people free. No doubt he felt my own rage and aggression a mile away, the emotions corrupting my normally happy go lucky chakara. No doubt felt the surprised apprehension of the staff. My wood style Justus caused the door to burst open, no physical contact required. Except Sakura was no where in sight. I screamed, panicked. “Hashirama!” Tobi’s name calling didn’t register with my brain even as it reached my ears. Where is she? It was late according to the clock so why the hell was she not in bed? “My lord?!” Juan exclaimed coming up behind me. “Where is she?”
“Sakura-sama is out on a walk right now. Two of the nurses are with her.” Approaching him slowly, like the predator I was, my words left no room for confusion on what I was ordering him to do, “no one outside the main family is allowed to visit her.”
A gulp, “yes my lord” he looked at the ground, knowing better than to challenge me by looking me directly in the eyes. Only a fool got between an alpha and their mate. Racing from the room I race around the building, startling multiple people, staff and patients alike until I found my mate. Just as Juan said, she was being escorted by two nurses, a beta and omega. No threat. “Hashirama?” Sakura was looking at me. All three of them were, obviously confused by my sudden appearance. My abrupt snatching of Sakura into my arms, burrowing her effectively against my chest got me startled looks and eeps. “What? Hashirama-Sama!” I carried her effectively down the hall, our final destination the room I left his morning. “Please be carful!” The nurses cried following us down the hallway, barely able to keep up with my long strides. Sakura didn’t smell hurt or scared. I smelt no blood. The beast felt oddly sastifed with her arms wrapped around my neck. Knowing she was safe and sound allowed me to take in a small breath of air. Body tense and emotions high strung it’d take a while but I’d calm down eventually. Had I been in my right mind, I would’ve caught her “I’m so high up” remark.
”Aniji, what’s wrong?” Tobi was being pushed back into bed by two nurses when we arrived. Looking like the worried alpha he was. “Was there an attack? Did an enemy breech the gates? Is she ok?” He was spiting out questions one after the other. Realistically he wasn’t giving anyone the time to answer, if I had wanted to answer. As if Sakura was delicate pottery I set her down on her own bed. The beds were nailed to the floor, therefore unmovable. Otherwise I would’ve pushed my younger brothers bed against hers, effectively sandwiching her between the two of us. Sakura didn’t get another question out before I was climbing in bed with her, half cradling, half leaning over her.
“Whats going on? What happened?” Tobi demanded. “It’s been a long day” father answered when he stepped inside the private room. Mom and the twins on his heels. Toka and Uncle right behind them. “It’s been a long day.”