Paths Diverge and Converge

Tobirama:

Anji barges into the room searching like a mad man for Sakura, bullies Juan, races from the room without answering my questions only to come back with Sakura in tow. Now hes hovering over her like a man possessed and refusing to budge and answer my questions. Whiplashed, not only was I confused but also irritated. I didn’t like the unknown. Didn’t feel comfortable with the lack of information. And obviously I was missing key information. And what did father have to say for himself? “It’s been a long day.”

“Sakura are you alright?” Said pink haired women was the main attraction, looking just as confused as me. Obviously not sure where to look for answers, eyes darting between father, mother, me and Hashirama. Thankfully she didn’t seem too upset or uncomfortable especially since he was looming over her like a threatening mountain of flesh, one able to manipulate the nature around us for miles. But she wasn’t dumb. Nibbling on her lower lip was a clear giveaway. “Calm down Anji. Whats got you so upset?”

“Oh you know, the elders this. Elders that” Toka hinted, “calm down won’t you cus? I really don’t want to deal with you when you’re like this.” Far from potent information, she was doing this intentionally. Her voice might sound chipper and nonchalant but to anyone who knew her, Toka’s scent screamed anger and apprehension. Between clenched teeth I press for more answers. “It’s best we don’t discuss it here. I don’t want to scare Sakura” Itama whispers, coming close to my ear, holding up a palm to prevent others from reading his lips. Not that the pink haired beauty had such an ability. Sakura caught the three of us conversing privately, head cocking to the side, picking up on the irregular behaviors of those she was coming to know. What did Outo mean by “I don’t want to scare Sakrua?” What was so bad that we couldn’t be upfront with her? How bad was bad? What had happened? “I deserve to know.”

“And we’ll tell you but know it’s the elders who upset Hashirama-“ Kamawara murmured, whispering ment for my ears only. Brain cells raced as possiple scenarios arose. What did they want with her? Were they going to hurt her? Kill her? What were their motivations? She just regained consciousness. Was just starting to do better eating. She was also talking more. Not as shy. Not as uncertain. A little more comfortable asking for what she needed or wanted. Sakura was working so hard on trusting us, and us earning that trust. The old fools could put everything at risk with a simple snap of their fingers or a mere word, they held that much sway in the clan. No omega in the clan let alone the alphas would tolerate such nefarious intentions. Senju whorshipped omegas, put their own health and happiness above our own. Any Senji alpha or beta was prepared to lay down their lives before allowing one hair to be harmed on any omegas head. A headache formed in my skull and behind my eyes as my mind created one negative outcome after another. “Alpha?” rubbing at my head stopped when her voice reached me, red orbs finding the my miracle staring straight at me. “Are you ok?” Nodding was out of the question, an unfortunate situation for anyone who preferred non-verbal communication methods to verbal ones. Nibbling at my lips was a tell tale sign I was fretting, one I had inherited from my own mother. Even now she was tugging my lip out from under my teeth. “Tobi?” The nickname brought warmth to my chest even as worry flooded my veins. “I’m alright, just a mere headache.” I didn’t feel like I was lying. I was half telling the truth, I was concerned for her and had a headache. If Sakura got wind that I was fretting then no doubt she would become sacred. As it was, the only males she currently trusted or rather tolerated was my siblings, Anji, father and Jaun. Anyone else was drawn away from. More than once I heard Jaun going head to head with male nurses who got their panties in a twist because she refused their care. Omegas often trusted their alphas to lead in trying situations. Unintentionally both Anji and gave indicators that something was admiss. And now she was beginning to become skittish. “Your lying…Whats going on?” Emerald eyes were wide as her internal fright grew, stinking up the air around us. Making the oxygen bitter. “Butsuma-Sama?” The whine is released from those lips as a plea. “I’m not lying.”

“Then why won’t you tell me what’s wrong?!” Panic caused her pupils to blow up twice their normal size. “Calm down” father said, taking a seat on the end of the bed. Holding up his hands, palms facing her in the universal sign I mean no harm. “No” she frantically shook her head, “he’s the strongest in the world and he's on edge that means something’s really wrong.” Sakura throws a finger Anji’s way. Hashirama’s lack of reaction only prof to her intuition.

“Hashirama over reacted” Mother spoke up, “he’s prone to highly emotional spurts that come and go. Please calm down. Juan will kick us out if you get too worked up.”

“Why won’t you tell me?” her voice is low, little more than a whisper. Maybe my eyes were playing tricks on me but it looked like she was shaking. Hashirama growled out something barely audible. “Sakura dear” father began, placing a hand on her leg, “the main family had a surprise meeting with the clans’s elders. They ambushed me while doing paperwork in my office. Since your unexpected arrival and finding out you are the heirs mate they have been hammering me to meet you. Due to your physical and mental health we haven’t permitted anyone outside the main branch to visit. Obviously with no accusations against my brother and niece.” Uncle and Toka nodded in sync when the clan head glanced over. Unhappy but not try not to take it personal. Foresight would’ve informed me that I was about to deeply regret hearing what my father said next. Itma and Kawamara were not kidding, this was definitely a conversation we should not of had with Sakura in the room. “Some of the elders specifically those that follow the incredibly old traditions made some out of line demands. Hashirama is not the only one to get pissed off.” Hence why he was leaning over her, willing to die as a human shield to keep her safe from all harm, not seeing immediate family as a threat but keeping an eye on the only way in and out. “Let me reassure you, there is zero chance that they will get what they want. When you are ready and feel up to it, I’d rather find out the answer to their questions through your words.”

“What demand?” Sakura murmors, eyes darting around the room. The fact that she is taking us at our word and not freaking out said a lot for our growing bonds with her. “Understand we didn’t want to tell you because we didn’t want to ruin your first impression with the clan” mother inserted, having taken a seat on the edge of my bed. Itama and Kawarma helping me sit up, placing pillows at my back for support. I’d wish they just spit it out, drawing it wasn’t doing anything for her nerves or my patience. “The elders are demanding we prove you are pure” father finally answers. My mind sputters to a halt. What the fucking hell? Anger pushes to the forefront, completly bypassing my shock. The old geezers wanted medial staff to do an internal, invasive exam to prove her virginity was still intact? Are they fucking mad? She was just starting to put faith in us, this could shatter it…permanently… “We told them in…Sakura?” Mother was getting to her feet, a single hand on my bed covers, the other reaching out towards the younger women. The very one who was having a complete meltdown. Breathing normally was thrown out the window, red eyes watched her pant heavily. Barely taking in any oxygen as her chest rises and sinks. “No!” She screams, body struggling under the weight of Hashirama. “I don’t want to!” She began to scream the phrase over and over. Anji and father pinned a frailing Sakura to the bed, the older alpha trying in vain to clam her down with words. Holding her down like that wasn’t helping, rather giving the implication that they were in fact going through with even as no one would. “No! I don’t want to be touched” she wailed, the screaming drawing the attention of the doctors and nurses. Jaun and two others breaking into the room. The loud slamming of the door against the wall, a noise doing nothing to calm her down. “Whats going on?”

“Sakrua-onni-Chan” Kawamara began, approaching slowly. Hands in the air in a pitiful attempt of plantation. “No one will touch you without your consent unless it’s strictly for your medial care. I promise you.” Big tears spilled from her beautiful eyes, my red ones watching with great sadness as she screamed in fright. Arms and legs failing in pitiful attempts to get free. “Let her go, you’re giving off the wrong impression” I snap, wanting nothing more than to make her tears stop, to bring back her smiling face. If Sakura was happy then I was happy. If Sakura was amused then I was amused. If she was anxious I was anxious. If Sakura was scared, I could not afford to be the same. Sakura in situations like this needed a rock, therefore I could afford to feel my own anger or concern.

“But nii-San, she could hurt herself” Kawarma says, worry shinning in his eyes, torn between looking at Sakura and I. “No he’s right. Hashirama, bring her over to Tobi-Nii-San.”

“Will someone tell us what the hell is going on?” Jaun cusses, clearly angry at the way the way the conversation was gong, especially when the topic was going no where good. Even more unhappy at being told to stay back. The alphas fists clenched at his side, face going red in anger. One of the nurses, Kira, had her hands pressed over her mouth in horror. “We would never” the very women murmured, the beta clearly upset at the implications. The Senju were leaders in medical care, writers of the book. Setter of standards. No one in our medical facility would even think of forcing an innocent, helpless individual into a procedure against their fully informed consent. No harassment or manipulation. There were strict guidelines and trainings to ensure proper ethnical care. “We know that” Kawamara replies, “no one is accusing anyone” father tacks on.

“Bring her over to Tobi that way she can be with both of you” Toka encourages, getting on what ever boat Itma was currently creating. What good would laying me with get? Father moves slowly but surly, picking up Sakura. Hashirama lunges and misses, landing flat on his face. Father doesn’t acknowledge or engage, unwilling to provoke any further than he’s already unintentionally done. I didn’t think this was going to work but I was willing to give it a go. My elder brother was just lucid enough not to kill him on the spot or attack anyone else. More than some alphas can say. Multiple reasons were behind the saying “one doesn't get between an alpha and their omega.” Sakuras body heat could be felt through the blankets as soon as she was set down. I threw them over her to bring her closer. Vibrating so strongly the covers ruffled. Hashirama threw himself on the bed, earning sharp gasps and then opposition from the medial staff. Juan was worried he would reopen my wounds, torn between protesting from my sake and for Sakura, who he could easily crush. The long haired alpha refusing to budge from his protective half hunched over stance above us. Sakura contuined to wail, and with Anji out of the picture emotionally, left me to pick up the pieces. “Sakura sweetheart?” I whisper gently. Tucking her against my chest even as she tenses and I pull at my own stitches. The pain is severe. With everything going on I missed my dosage of pain medication. Wincing through it, I put on a brave face for Sakarya. “It’s going to be ok. No is going to touch you without your consent. I promise I will protect you. Remember what I told you, my little miracle?”

Sakura sniffles, burrowing closer as she hides under the blankets. Only the top of her head is visible to the naked eye. Feminine arms come up to wrap around my front as her face burrows itself into my chest. Leaving my hospital issued shirt wet from her salty tears. “I don’t want to-.”

”Remember what I told you?” A hand lifts to stoke her hair, the motion meant to be soothing. The room waits her out, it’s as if no one is willing to breath lest they break the silence. “That you’d protect me? Not hurt me? Her voice is small as if she’s afraid of getting the answer wrong. Or being scolded. Or harmed. ”Yes. Exactly.” White hair brushes up against pink strands as I nuzzle the top of her head. “I don’t want to be touched. I’m not a bad omega. I-” Sakura peeters off, curling into my tighter if that was even possible. Sniffles reach my ears as I internally debate how to respond. Anji was the empathetic one. He always seemed to  know just how to respond to a persons emotional needs. Reacting nothing less than perfect to anger, confortation, aggression, hatred, fright, anxiety, happiness. By the time the two part ways the other is relaxed, crisis adverted. Me? Clueless. Ignorant. Blank stares, impatience and lack of care was what one was going to get out me. Hell I could barely decipher my own let alone how to help another. What did she mean? What was she talking about? Good? Bad? Red eye, ones I didn’t know even close locked eyes on Toka. My cousin, a two years older than me but three younger than Anji flicked her hands my way, urging me forward. As if the situation was easy to handle. Give me a go piece or humans as pieces on a chess board on a battlefield. I’m calm, thinking rationally. Lives were at stake on battlefields but here right now, everything felt so real, so much at stake. A blade was easier to fight than ones mate internal strife. “No one will touch you without your explicit permission. No one is going to conduct an internal exam or doing anything else you don’t want. I give you my word” with the side of my head pressed against the top of hers and snuggling under the blankets I can’t get any physically closer. My instincts tell me that this was the right call, the right thing to do. A croon rises deep in my chest, until it erupts and escapes into the open space around us. Croons, designed by nature all those millena ago, was an instinctual sound designed to be used by alphas to calm an upset omega, specifically ones mate. A questioning chirp leaves her lips but thankfully she begins to clam down. Emotional highs and lows were simply not productive for her recovery, mental or physical. Multiple sets of eyes bore into us from different stations around the room as Hashirama began to croon. Sakura even began to purr back.

Hearing her happy noises sent off several things all at once. Hashirama and I both calmed down. My elder crawled to lay against her other side, sheltering her between us. Itma and Kawarma took a deep breath. Toka and her dad loosen their posture, releived they won’t have to deck it out with Hashirama again. Mother and father conspire in the corner with the medical staff. Backs to me, I can’t hear their hushed whispers or read lips but know the conversation is heated. Sakura begins to doze off, the emotional distress taking a troll even as a few sniffles escape here and there.

“I’m gonna fucking kill them” Kawarma says, eventually taking a seat on my left. Facing me to avoid staring over the muscular back of Hashirama. The hulking tree. “Kin slaying is illegal” Itma says, leaning against the wall behind his twins back, arms crossed over his chest. “Let me guess” I begin only to be cut off by Kawarma, “one hundred points go for guessing Fush and Polk.” Ah so I was right. Those bastards had a long standing reputation of being hard headed traditionals. People like them could never understand let alone accepted change. In the eyes of the brunet and blonde omegas were homebodies, designed and raised as child-bearers and property. Small numbers of Senju stuck to the old ways of thinking and those two were members in said group. Thankfully many adapted to the transitions life liked to slap us with, updating to the way of thinking where everyone reglardless of secondary sex and financial and social background was equal. Where omegas had power and say. Were valued, whorshiped. Helping pave the way was the long standing history of having omegas as clan head. In fact they were preferred to alphas and betas. It was still unclear if Hashirama would become the next Senju clan head. Despite being raised as such, for all his strength and involvement in clan politics and abroad his further relied on having his fated mate at his side. Though I highly doubted his care for her was an act. Aniji wore his emotions on his sleeves and he was downright smitten with Sakura.

“So the inspection was their idea?” Both twins nodded in sync, “they were quite adamant too” Kawamara tacked on, disgust dripping from his lips with every syllable. His face perfectly matching his emotions. “It’s like the idiots thought we’d agree or something” the other brother added to the conversation, just as horrified. “You should’ve seen the other elders, they looked ready to riot. I thought father and brother were going to kill them on the spot.”

I didn’t doubt Itma’s words. The other elders according to the younger generation had been outraged at the idea. Excluding the two antagonists the rest of the council was comprised of omegas. Partly so the secondary gender would have a say in clan affairs but also to prove the clans dedication to omegas. It had been this way for many generations. The makeup was productive and normally one that wasn’t at odds even as the individuals knew where each other stood. Foresight is a bitch, we should’ve known the two would pounce. Sakuras arrival upset the balance in the clan and would lead to new leadership. In other words she threatened their power and influence. Plus she wasn’t an Senju, not born one or raised one. In other words she didn’t know our way of life. Outsiders weren’t welcomed in most clans but with elders who didn’t approve of omegas having a say in anything, who wouldn’t approve of her background or history, gaining the respect and support of the council would be a long uphill battle. One that she was far from ready for. Focus was where it was meant to be, on her mental and physical health. Healing from the Uchiha bastards wasn’t just a battle of the body but one of the heart.

“Tobi?” Toka said, drawing my attention from over thinking and racking my brain to her, the silent cousin at my side. “We’ll keep her safe.” Safty came in many forms. It was a stretch to prematurely accuse the two antagonists of bodily harm or anyone else in their circle but it wasn’t impossible. Eyes and ears would be kept open.

Change the topic we began to discuss Sakura’s blooming reputation into the clan. Hopefully it would be overwhelming welcome the clan would gift her. Many already whispered about what she looked like, acted like, her personality, her background. It was no secret that the clan had spent years worrying about Anji finding his fated life partner. For if he was to never find that person he would never mate or have heirs. If that had been the case it would’ve fallen to me to carry on the main branches line, then to the twins and then finally Toka. Jaun carried in news that some had tried visiting prior only to be turned away. Surly she would be overwhelmed, with duties and the sudden growth of her new family. Sakrua was not ready to meet the big world outside. But we’d be by her side when she was ready.

Sakura didn’t stur for the rest of the night. Awake and needing my shirt but silent. Only leaving the cot for a bathroom break. Aided by medics since I wasn’t able to walk on my own and Hashirama was old cold. Or was until he rolled off of his own violation. At least this time around the big lug wasn’t feisty, rather back to his old self. Half amused, half exasperated with my eldest sibling, I look on as he sat up, baffled at finding him self on the tiles of the hostipal floor, brown eyes flickering around trying to figure out what was going on. As soon as he understood, red eyes watched him sit outside the bathroom, whining like a baby, waiting impatiently for her to return. With a hand blocking my lips, I made a pitiful attempt to stifle my lauphter. So pathetic he couldn’t even let her preform her natural duties without whining. Upset he couldn’t be besides her twenty four seven.

We’d even miss dinner. Though seeing as all three of us were now awake, a small meal a piece was delivered to tide us over until breakfast. Hashirama even tired to feed her his own food. Thinking he was being smart, even as no one missed the little nibbles added to her plate. Hashirama was so insistent that he would hold up a spoon full in offer for her to ingest. But her belly just wasn’t ready for large portions of nutrition. Sticking to two small meals and little snacks to build her up naturally. Thankfully she didn’t have any food allergies. Sakura enjoyed sweets specifically dango. On more than one occasion since the “discovery of a lifetime” as Hashirama liked to joke, the older man had snuck in some deserts. Jaun would have a cow if he discovered this. No doubt it would be refreshing to observe Anji get reprimanded by someone other than father, mother and I.

Seeing as the room was empty minus us three Sakura took a positive step forward to bring something that was bothering her to our attention. “Alphas?” Sakura voice was small like a mouse. Timidness showing through she squirmed under our natural gazes. Relaxed but listening intently we patiently waited to hear what she had to share. Rushing her wouldn’t be smart. Impatience would not allow her to speak her mind on her own terms. Undermining her growing trust and gradual building of her self confidence. Rushing her words could strike her as being unwanted, falsely teaching her that we didn’t care to hear what she had to say. And therefore the likely hood of her speaking out against would diminish. “I don’t like being held down.” Hashirama as always wore his emotions on his sleeve. And right now he looked down right guilty. “I’m sorry. I just didn’t want you to hurt your self or roll out of bed.”

”Bad people” the licking of the lips resumed as she gathered her words at our expense. I my self was waiting impatiently with bated breath. Having the feeling I wouldn’t want to hear what she had to say. Anji was just as still besides me. “Held me down and hurt me. Brings back bad memories.” Sakura wouldn’t meet our optical nerves at my heart stopped beating. Heart dropping.

Next time I awoke. Sakura was gone and Anji wasn’t in the room either. Turning my head this way and that I discovered I was the only occupant in the room. Concerned for her well being I called out for the medics. Where was Sakura? Was she safe? Did the elders take her? Someone could’ve broken into the compound and kidnaped her right from under our noises. With less than three hundred omegas on the entire planet and less being born each year, completion was high. Alphas killing other alphas for omegas that weren’t even fated to them was becoming more common. No unrecognizable scents were picked up by noise but there was more than one way to skin a cat. More than one cream and spray covered ones personal scent. Perfect for infiltration missions. Perfect for assassinations. Perfect for taking someone against their will. All the invaded had to do was grab her while she slept or cover her mouth to prevent her from making noise. Nina answered my shouts. Turns out, Anjia had spent the night and accompanied Sakura on her morning walk. A typical occurrence as part of her recovery. One lap around the building in the morning and one in the evening. Inside, away from the nasty winter wether outside. The very wind that could be heard pounding the buildings exterior walls. Always done with at least two staff. If I recalled her excitement to be let free to walk the first time resulted in her collapsing. Being caught between the two medical professionals led to less personal damage. If they had failed to grab her in time, she could’ve hit her head. Or broke bones. Now she walked arms helping to hold her up but not needing as much support. Dispite being caged inside a four walled, traditional wooden building she always was looking forward to getting up and around. Often returning to jabber about the limited discoveries observed though the glass windows.

Over the next few weeks peace returned. Now I could sit up on my own, even walk small distances. Mostly to the bathroom and back. Dispite my progress Anji still winced and apologized every time I showed pain, obviously guilty even after all this time. Anji vacated the room everytime my shirt came off, unable to look at the scars lining my chest. Sakura just blushed from her own bed, refusing to look our way.

Toka adored Sakura, treating her no differently than my siblings and I. The first time they met, the older women gave her a big hug, only to gush about having a new relative. Only to start teasing how it would nice to have a female friend in a family of men, earning more than one set of eye rolling. Sakura was certainly timid around new people. Green eyes kept glancing our way, Hashirama perched on my bed. Sakura in her own. As long as we were calm she would hopefully remain calm. Toka was perhaps too energetic and confidant for Sakura. But they seemed to get along. Although not a daily visitor, Toka made time between duties. Uncle was a different story. The imposing male, towering nearly as tall as Hashirama and way more muscular definitely put her on alert. Sakura’s reaction to his approach only reinforced my previous observations, she was afraid of males. But why. Before anyone could speak he returned to leaning against the wall. Still carrying on the conversation but mindful of her limits. If anything he was just a big jokester, one hundred percent explaining where Toka got her pranking tendencies. Uncle did give Sakura heads up that she would be forever teased now that she was apart of the family. And for the first time since meeting she smiled. Before he walked through the doors to let us rest, he got one over her. Sakura lacked the understanding that he was messing with her. Looking for guidance or apologizing. She’d get the hang of it eventually.

She’d even met my mother’s life partners. Originally because it was a hostipal, Jaun had refused to allow them inside. We’d also feared her being afraid of them, after all they were large and imposing. Threatening to those that knew the Hataka clan reputation. “Wolfs of nightmares” was just one of the many titles that followed them on missions and back to the homeland. Aunt Sara would have surly been informed by now of our newest addition. As soon as the weather improved, the snow melted and the wind died down she’d make her way into Senju territory to meet Sakura. Aunt Sara would have to be warned ahead of time. Over confident and raunchy she would be intimidating to Sakura. But seeing as she was doing better… Turns out there was no reason to worry. It was as if they became best friends. Anji helped Sakura out of bed so she could sit on the floor, a much better option than being loomed over even while laying feet off the ground in bed . Taking the initive they lowered themselves to lay on their bellies, trying to look less imposing. Everyone was silent as we let play out what will. A few flickers of green eyes between us humans and the wolves proved she wasn’t entirely sure what to do. It was mother who gave her a gentle push, her verbal instance that it was alright that got things rolling. Sakura and mother were basically twins of bad habits. Both nibbled on their bottom lips when situations arose that made them uncomfortable. Eyes closed and with batted breath, Sakura held her hand out. Reaching out to pet the nearest one, hesitant yet still making an effort. Shin just rolled over for belly rubs as soon as he was done sniffing her fingers. Femine giggles still warm my heart today. Except Kin didn’t want to wait, jumping on Sakura none to gently to get her attention. A sharp yelp and green eyes found her laying with the cold tiles to her back. Reglardless of the stunt and her wide eyes she petted him. Earning gentle nibbles to the fingers and licks to the palms. And now she adored them. Even if they got dog hair on her bed.

One day, a little monkey snuck in for a peak. Said monkey came in the form of one of the children sneaking past the adult staff and into the building. Found to be hiding around the other side of the door. Red eyes recognized the youngster. He was three at most, accompanied like always by his five year old, partner in crime brother. Two other voices reveled they weren’t alone. Since the excitement the other day, Sakura had taken to napping or sleeping over night in bed with me. Especially when Anji wasn’t in the room. She was sleeping through our naps rude weakening by four nosy children who had no place in the hospital if they weren’t receiving care. Crimson orbs stared straight into the eyes of the toddler, letting the little guy know they were truly caught. His blush of embrassment didn’t hinder him from taking a hesitate step inside. Big brown eyes looked very intensely at our cot, approaching so close that he was tugging ever slightly at the bed covers. “Hello Hayate-kun.”

”Hello” the boy said, a wide grin overtaking his apprehension at being caught red handed. Although he strained, he was just too short to get a good look at Sakura, his ultimate goal. “Pretty.”

“Very pretty huh” I said referring to the way his eyes were fixated on Sakura’s beautiful hair. “Pink.” I reassured the boy verbally that he was right. Being so young and even if he wasn’t supposed to be where he was, positive reinforcement was the best way to handle the situation. Now to get him back to his mother who was a worry wort. No doubt she was freaking out trying to find the two youngsters that she swore daily would give her a heart attack one day. With her mate an active shinobi, the alpha male of the home and the rightful father wasn’t around much leaving her exhausted and stressed after chasing two young pups around all day. Laying next to Sakura and watching him interact with her I couldn’t help but wonder if she would be good with children. After all one’s secondary sex didn’t dictate the entirety of their personality. “Omega?”

“Yes. This is Sakura-Sama” big brown eyes widened before an even bigger smile than before plastered itself on his face. Out of the corner of my eye I say three other sets of eyes peek around the slightly open door. Watching wide eyed, obviously ready to flee at the slightest provocation of an oncoming scolding. It radiated in their chakara. Refocusing my eyes on the pup by our bed side I found him curiously looking at me. “Tobi-samas mate?”

“How perceptive you are. Yes she’s mine and Hashirama-sama’s mate.” Growing up with two younger brothers and being the clans babysitter meant I was pretty good at reading children’s body language. Between that and reading others emotions through their chakra networks made me good with kids. Plus I had more patience and tended to like them better than their older counterparts. Speaking of sensing, their mother had realized that the two escaped the younger nap, I’d have to send staff to let them know. Red eyes widened as one pup transformed to four pups within a blink of an eye. Outnumbered I could only shake my head at their antics. Finding them amusing even though they shouldn’t have been in the room. “Both of your mate?” A young female asked, “Yang-Chan” I greeted the young blond who was no more than 5 herself. Watching green eyes blink in happiness at not only being right but also being remembered by name. “Her name is Sakura” I introduced. “Such pretty hair” the girl high pitched squeeled, hurting my ears even though I was more than used to it. “She is.”

“Why you in bed? No playing?” Hayate Asked, genuine curiosity shining in those brown eyes. The little michvious maker pulling harder on the covers to get a better look, envious of the older pups height. Meaning I had to scold him. “Are you sick? Hashirama-sama just left the hospital too. I thought he could heal himself” Yuuto, the toddlers older brother said, speaking for the first time while tugging his brothers hands free. “Oh he is. But even he needs help sometime” after all they didn’t need to know all the ins and outs of the situation, they were too young to understand the difficulties that came with being a grown up. Let them be kids while they could. “Soon we’ll be released too. Sakura is sleeping because she really tired-“ I would’ve liked to explain that was why the four needed to go home, to assure their worried parents who were desperately looking for the four runaways, but I was rudely interrupted by the last speaker, another young boy, the elder of four, Ryusei. “Father spoke of her. She was found abondoned in an old run down manner. Unwanted and all on her own.” He might just be repeating what he’s overheard the adults saying but still, he shouldn’t have that condescending tone when speaking about his future matriarch. His parental figure was a high ranking alpha male. I’m sure Haru would not approve of his words being carelessly repeated. “Says she’s a gentle soul but shy.”

“Is that so Ryusei-kun?” I hummed making the conversation light. Seeing he had my full attention his chest puffed up with importance. “Yup. He was one of the guards that protected the medical tent. Said she was a timid omega but very kind.” Good to hear. “Dad told mom that she was our clans future matriarch” his eyes were down right shinning, happy to be of some use and to get some attention. Not surprising considering he had to share his parents love with five other siblings including a set of twins if I remembered correctly. “What did your mother say.” The youngster hummed for a moment, a trait he picked up from his mother. Mimicking her verbal cues was cute and amusing though I was careful not to show the latter. “Mother said she hoped she got better soon. And that she looked forward to meeting her. After that they realized I was still up and got in trouble.” Chuckles escaped my throat, able to picture the scene in my head. The youngster was a trouble maker but he had a good heart and head on his shoulders. As the oldest he often tried to shoulder the burden of helping to raise them but being young himself he often did what he could. On more than one occasion I had watched the five of them for the evening to allow his parents a break. All six were great kids whose parents had taught to be respectful and kind. “There you are!”

Five bodies jumped, my self included even if I wasn’t proud to admit it, Juan had caught us off gaurds. The medium build, lanky alpha beta stood in the doorway, hands on his hips with two nurses at his back. Each wearing an expression that radiated irritatation. “Do you know the trouble you four have caused?” Not that they were given a chance to reply. Not that they had the words to, terrified of Jaun and his anger. “The compound has been put on lockdown, shinobi dispatched to search the woods. Your omegan mothers are frantic and deeply upset. They think something has happened to you, you been taken or - I don’t know” he was in front of the kids right now, looming over them. I heard an autoable gulp from one of the pups. “And here you are, sneaking into patients rooms, disturbing them and causing trouble!”

“Jaun don’t yell at them. You’re scaring them” and he was truly way. All four were clinging to one another. Crumpling under his anger. One of the nurses disappeared from the open doorway, probably heading to call off the alarm. “You should’ve called for a nurse” he retorted, enough negativity pumping through his veins to make him mouthy and conformational. A true pain in the ass. “The children meant no harm” a new voice joined the frey. Shocked I looked down to find a fully awake Sakura. “Please let them off easily.”

“Sakura-Sama” Ryusei, Yang and Yuuto gasped clearly surprised. Tiny heads twisting to get a better look. “Sakura-Sama” Jaun let out a low sigh, hands coming up to rub at his forehead. A clear sign of being stressed and or having a headache. “Sorry to wake you.”

“It’s alright” her airy voice brought the entire rooms temperature up a few notches. Less freezing and more towards room temperature even if it was just figuratively. “Children, as much as it is nice to meet you. Please return to your families, I’m sure your families are very worried about you.”

”Yang your mother is pregnant she doesn’t need this stress” the remaining nurse spoke up. “Don’t worry My Lady. We will ensure the pups get home safe and sound. Nina already went to let the shinobi and parents know they were safe and sound.” The children appeared no longer frightened but rather entriged with Sakura’s sudden awakening. “Hey Tobi!”

Anji appeared in the doorway. Panting but with a smile on his face, his demeanor easily explained when his eyes lit up when he spotted the kids. “There you are!” He hugged the four tight to his chest, getting a hug in return. The pups regonizing the playmate they had known since they were born. “Hashirama-sama!” Four young voices rang out, happy to see him. “We’ve been looking tall over for you.” Four pairs of eyes lowered to the floor knowing they had made a bad decision. “You little stinkers are you alright?”

“Just fine Anji. They’ve been here this whole time. Just wanted to say hi was all.”

“Hospitals are not play ground” Jaun growled, clearly fed up with the situation. Anji bowed in apology, “sorry for the trouble Juan, I’ll escort them to their folks. Come along now.” Yang shook her long blond locks, the curls bouncing with her body’s movements. “I want to meet Sakura-sama. She’s so pretty, like a doll.” Sakura promptly blushed, hiding her face against my chest. Ah she wasn’t used to getting attention let alone compliments. Made since, she hadn’t had a lot of human interaction in the last twenty years. “Another time pups” Anji admonished, gently pushing the four towards the door. Completly ignoring their protests. “Sakura needs to rest. You can say hi later.”

One could still hear four young voices complaining down the hall. As soon as they were out of the room the medic gave a sign of relief. “Rugrats” he said shaking his head as he left. Existing but not before looking down the long hallway where the five disappeared. Clearly making sure they left his perfectly run facility. Chaos my name was not Jaun. Sakura was giggling as soon as he left the room, causing me to kick up in amusement.

Sakura was out on a walk when my mother came to speak privately with me. Sakura had just left no more than five minuets prior to her knocking on my door. Making her self home in the spare chair she looked uncomfortable and stressed. “Whats wrong?”

“We need to discuss what will happen next now that your mate is doing better.” Wording for every shinobi was key. A smart ninja picked up on verbal nuances, key words and phrases. And right now she was being very careful with her word choice. Mother’s chakara screamed uncomfortable and stressed. “I don’t understand.” I truly didn’t she was being too vague. If Sakura was worsening, Jaun would’ve spoken up. Anji and I would’ve been sitting down with the doctor and father to discuss what was wrong. If Anji was in trouble father’s chakara would’ve spiked in anger or frustration, a common occurrence. Did the elders out of line again? “You abondoned your mate” shame, self disgust, self hatred flowed through my body every time the scenario was mentioned, thought of. There wasn’t a day that went by that I didn’t regret my actions. “She might’ve forgiven your transgressions, a lucky break esspically when you nearly killed her” red eyes lowered to the floor as she spoke relentlessly “but the clan has laws.”

Hashirama:

Clan operations were never ending, not even pausing in the winter. Which sucked. Not only did I have to sit at a desk all day and through boring meetings but I had to do so when it was wet and cold outside….I snickered at an inside joke, one I didn’t dare share lest Tobi get upset but it just dawned on me that the winter season was a perfect complement to his personality. Sadly enough he wasn’t even here to take notes meaning I had to pay attention as the elders drawled on and on. All I wanted to do was take a nap, snuggling with Sakura under the warm covers. Until a particular topic caught my attention.

“The trial will be held on February 12th” Father said, “what trial?” I asked, having previously caught Tobis name as part of the conversation. “Your bother is just about healed up” Elder Akemi spoke, the omega looking less than pleased at my lack of listening. Her whole demeanor screamed annoyance. “He must be held accountable for omega abandonment and abuse.” What the hell was she talking about? Tobi was one of the most dedicated alphas I knew. He’d die for her, waited at her bed side for hours without sleep to ensure she slept safe from nightmares, always ensure she ate before himself. My younger brother might not be best with people but it was obvious Sakura was his entire word. So why were they bringing up what happened out on champagne? It was done and over with, many months ago. Winter was just about over and spring, my favorite season was about underway. “He made a mistake, one he’ll spend the rest of his existence regretting and making up for.” Father’s eyes dripped in sadness but his hands were tied, laws were laws, no one was exempt. “That is no excuse for such behavior!” Toula raged, “are we supposed to show lenicy to every alpha who shows a grain of remorse? Are we just to allow them to walk free without repercussions?”

“It sounds like you’ve already sentenced him to death” my teeth snapped together at the end, a small hint to the rest of the room’s occupants to my emotional state. Tobi was my pride and joy, my life partner and closest confidant. My heart loved him like a brother, one I was more than willing to die for. “Of course not. Our language does have the word trial for a reason” the male retorted, obviously insulted, arms folded over his chest. Attitude lining every sentence he spoke. Normally I was at odds with the alphas of the council, finding support from the omegas but now…”It’s like you are accepting of his treatment of her.”

“Thats going to far, Toula” Akemi snapped, putting the other elder in his place. Picking the perfect timing because she just beat father and I too it and if that was to happen it wouldn’t have been pretty. “The main branch has always been honorable. Defenders of our kind. Just because Hashirama-Sama is an alpha is no grounds for prejudice. You should be ashamed of your self.”

“It’s not because he’s an alpha” the other backtracked, no doubt distinctly able to feel all eyes on him, “I’m merely just saying that it’s suspicious he’s wiling to turn a blind eye to this treatment. To his mate no less.” A deep intake of breath did nothing to qualm my internal anger and insult, it only saturated my lungs with distrust and aggressive anger. Political expirence advised me to take a step back, try not to read the situation with pure emotions. Instead focus on the facts without bonds or connections. “Toula-San” I interrupted the heated argument between the four other omegas in the room. The problem makers surprisly absent, apparently sick even though they were perfectly fine days prior. And both at the same time no less. “Apologies. My intentions were not made clear. I obviously believe all alphas who harm their mates or omegas should be held accountable. Weither Sakura was my fated or not I would never think that hurting another was acceptable. It pains me to see my younger brother…To know he did such a horrible thing to an innocent person hurts me deeply. At least I can be put at ease knowing the two are getting along, that she has forgiven him. To her and to me, he’s expressed how remorseful he is. If only you could see him interact with her. He’s so considerate and gentle with her, like she’ll break at the slightest breeze.”

Akemi’s sister, Remi usually the most quiet of the bunch, spoke up, “its noble for you to defend him. Please don’t misunderstand we know this must be hard of you and Butsuma-sama, Hina-sama and your brothers. But he must stand trial for his deeds.” She meet the eyes of everyone in the room. “Obviously your accounts will be taken into consideration. But Sakura-sama will have to give a statement. Detailing all that happened. We hope you understand this is duty, nothing personal.”

“Rest assured” my voice was even, neutral as I did fully understood. “Good” Remi said, a smile forming on her face, clapping her hands she addressed the room as a whole; “it is too bad Hina-sama couldn’t join us today but I believe this has been most productive. We have gone over how much supplies is left. When merchants will be invited to compound. Who we will contuine trade with. The upcoming attendance of the Dymios summer gathering. And Tobirama-samas trail. If no one else has anything to discuss then I vote we adjourn for the day.” Seeing as no one had any protests, there was no reason to stay seated in this stuffy room anymore. Stretching I was the first to my feet. Watching everyone get up more slowly. But energy was flowing through my viens and seeing how I had a better place to be. “Bye!”

“Hashirama-“ I cut father off, running away before he could finish his sentence. I was sure he was going to tell me I had paperwork to do. But freedom called and I wanted to spend time with my mate. Waving at some passerbyers my feet ran the entire way to the hospital.Skipping down the hallway I found mother no where in sight but yet caught a whiff of her and her life mates in the hall right outside the room. How strange. Anyway…. Inside my heart beat happily at the sight that greeted me. Tobi and Sakura were sharing the covers as normal. Except this time he had a book in his hands and he was reading to her. Voice calm but not void of emotion as he shared what ever literature the book worm held between his hands. If I recalled Sakura couldn’t read… Light bulb moment. Tobi would be a great teacher. He already taught the youngsters, giving them a basic education. Expanding to teach the older ones how to weird chakara and to fight. I’d dare say as a proud brother that those under his wing stood a much better chance than those taught only by parents or previous instructors. “Tobi!” If I aimed to catch him off guard I was surly disappointed for the two were already staring at me. “I have an idea” the words earning me a blank look, one that screams disinterest, one that earns a pout from me. “What is it?”

Pity or not I jump at the chance to share my ingenious notion. “You should teach Sakura how to read.” Two pairs or eyes, one red the other green blink at me. Sakura eventually looks up at Tobi. “Not a bad idea Aniji. But where did this come from?” I wave my hand as I approach, indicating that they two of them just now gave me the idea. “You’re so patient Tobi. So gentle with Sakura. You’d be perfect to help her learn how to read and write.” I plop down on the side of the bed, sitting close but not encroaching on anyone’s personal space. Close enough now that brown eyes find Tobi to be reading a fairy tail to our pink haired mate. Odd, he was more of a scientific entrepreneur than fictional one. Upon closer inspection I didn’t regonize the book or the cover. “Fairytails?” Sakura nods rapidly a big smile on her face. Well who was I to judge. You like what you like. “So what do do say? Want Tobi to teach you?”

“Will you Tobi? Please?” Big green eyes are alight with excitement. I’d never seen anyone else but Tobi look excited to learn. Except maybe the children under his wing. For they loved to learn new justu. “Of course. I’d be happy to.” The smiles shared between them was truly part of a special shared moment.

It didn’t take a genius to figure out something was admiss. Mother’s sour scent, one that proved her uncomfortable unhappiness could be found swirling around the room long after her departure. Tobirama seemed hell bent on ignoring the smell. Must’ve been uncomfortable for him and his heightend smell. Yet I course send something had happened. I may not have Outo’s sensing abilities but knew my fellow alpha enough to know something was up. I would’ve liked to assume he felt comfortable enough to confide in me. Was it because Sakura was in the room? Did it regard her health? No, Juan would’ve informed me the moment he discovered what was wrong. At the top of his game, he took no prisoners when it came to her health and wellbeing. Staff, from new to old, from every department had been informed of Sakura’s visitor restrictions. The likely hood of an unwanted visitor was pretty low even though four youngsters got through. That was amusing. Jaun had yelled at the parents for at least ten minuets about keeping an eye on them and not getting underfoot. About disturbing patients. He would’ve gone on longer had father not stepped in. Mother lead the panting male away, hands gently resting on his shoulders, assuring him more care would be taken. Sakura didn’t comment on the smell either. Or his dead give away body language. What ever happened was being kept from me much to my displeasure. But Sakura’s happyness, watching her listen intently to his storytelling lite up the atmosphere. Scents of spring flower wafted up my noise, kicking out the bitter smell for a happy go lucky positive one.

“Your smiling is creepy Anji” pouting, a large raincloud appeared over my head. Sad frown forming, head lowering I refused to meet anyone eyes. “Hashirama-sama?”

“Don’t worry he does this. You’ll get used to it.” Typical Outo behavior. Preferring books to human companionship. Unable to comprehend emotions but read through pages of text no problem. “He looks so sad.” Sakura wasn’t wrong. Tobi was being heartless. And worst yet, he wasn’t affected by my appearance.

“He does this for attention.” Mouth gapping open, red eyes meeting brown I looked at him with shock. “Tobi! Your mean!”