First Day of School

Tobirama adjusted the collar of his uniform, a crisp blue fabric that matched the village's emblem. A slight frown creased his brow as he walked alongside Danzo Shimura, who maintained a stern expression, acting all tsundere, trying to hide his happiness. The streets of Konoha buzzed with energy, laughter, and excitement, but Tobirama felt somewhat out of place among the cheerful chatter of other children.

"Remember, Tobirama," Danzo began, his voice low and serious, "your talents must not go to waste. You are destined for greatness. Keep your head down and focus on your studies. Don't draw unnecessary attention."

Tobirama nodded, his red eyes scanning the bustling street, pupils sharp and observant. "Understood," he replied, trying to sound more confident than he felt.

As they approached the academy, the building loomed ahead, filled with students eager to begin their journey. Tobirama's gaze landed on two familiar figures standing nearby: Itachi and his younger brother, Sasuke Uchiha. Sasuke was grinning broadly, excitement radiating from him as he stood beside Itachi, who wore a more stoic expression.

Tobirama smirked, his eyes narrowing. "Look at them," he muttered to Danzo, a playful lilt to his voice. "One brooding, the other overly cheerful. It's almost pathetic."

"Focus, Tobirama," Danzo warned, though he couldn't entirely hide his disapproval. "This is your first day. Stay composed."

'It is all for the memes.' Tobirama thought.

With newfound boldness, Tobirama stepped forward, interrupting the brothers' moment. "Hey, Uchiha! I see you're here on the first day. How's it feel to know you're going to be overshadowed already?"

Sasuke's initial happiness faltered as he turned to Tobirama, irritation flashing across his face. "What do you want, Senju?"

"Just wanted to see how the legendary Uchiha handles the weight of their reputation," Tobirama said, feigning innocence. "Or is all that training just for show? You're not just going to stand behind your brother all year, are you?"

Sasuke's face flushed with anger, fists clenched at his sides. "I'm going to prove myself! I won't let a Senju look down on me!"

"Oh, please," Tobirama shot back, enjoying the banter. "It's not like you've even been tested yet. How can you expect to be great when you're still just a kid playing at being a ninja?"

Itachi, observing the exchange with a subtle smile, tried to diffuse the situation. "Sasuke, don't let him get to you. He's just trying to provoke a reaction."

"Yeah, Sasuke," Tobirama taunted, leaning a little closer. "You should know by now that the Uchiha tend to let their emotions cloud their judgment. You wouldn't want to embarrass your clan, would you?"

"Shut up, Senju!" Sasuke retorted, his frustration boiling over. "You don't know anything about me!"

"Don't I?" Tobirama responded, a playful smirk on his face. "I hear all the Uchiha are supposed to be prodigies. But I guess you're just here for the free meals, huh?"

Sasuke looked ready to explode, while Itachi continued to watch, amusement dancing in his dark eyes. "Senju-san, I don't think we've done anything to offend you." he said calmly, though the hint of a smile remained.

"I'm just having a little fun," Tobirama said, his tone serious yet laced with humor. "Besides, someone has to keep the Uchiha on their toes."

With a huff, Sasuke turned away, his mood darkening. The joy he had felt before Tobirama's arrival was quickly fading, replaced by irritation. Itachi chuckled softly, watching his brother's reaction and thought.

'I bet they will best friends before they become genin.'

As the bell rang, signaling the start of the day, Danzo gestured lightly pushed Tobirama toward the entrance of the academy. The laughter and chatter of children filled the air, and Tobirama felt a surge of determination before walking through the gate.

.

.

.

Three months later.(Itachi was right)

Three months had passed since Tobirama and Sasuke first met at the academy, their initial animosity evolving into a fierce rivalry and beginning of a friendship.

Each day brought new challenges and training sessions, where they pushed each other to improve. Sasuke found solace in Tobirama's unyielding determination, while Tobirama admired Sasuke's latent potential and resilience. Today, however, was a different kind of challenge—a visit to the Uchiha clan compound.

Tobirama adjusted his collar as he and Sasuke walked side by side through the familiar streets of Konoha. The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the village. "Are you sure your family won't mind me coming over?" Tobirama asked, glancing sideways at Sasuke.

"Of course not!" Sasuke replied, though there was a hint of uncertainty in his voice. "They'll be fine with it. Just… don't say anything stupid, okay?"

Tobirama chuckled. "No promises."

As they neared the Uchiha compound, Tobirama felt the weight of history pressing down on him. The Uchiha clan was renowned for their powerful Sharingan and their fierce pride. He was aware that, despite their budding friendship, being a Senju among the Uchiha could still be a sensitive subject. Still, he pushed those thoughts aside. He was here to support Sasuke and learn more about him, maybe even stop him from going fullblown crazy.

Upon entering the compound, they were greeted by the sight of traditional Uchiha architecture—dark wood, sharp angles, and the clan's emblem proudly displayed. Sasuke led the way, his steps quickening with each stride. "Come on! I want you to meet my mom and dad."

As they approached the main house, Tobirama couldn't help but admire the surroundings. He could feel the energy of the clan, the strong ties of family that connected each member. Just then, the door swung open, revealing Mikoto Uchiha, Sasuke's mother, with a warm smile.

"Sasuke! You're home!" she exclaimed, pulling him into a hug. -Making Sasuke embarrassed.- Her eyes then landed on Tobirama, and her expression shifted to one of curiosity. "And you must be Tobirama. It's nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too, Mrs. Uchiha," Tobirama replied, his voice steady, though he felt a slight flutter of nerves. "Thanks for having me over."

"Please, call me Mikoto," she said, ushering them inside. The aroma of dinner wafted through the air, filling Tobirama's senses. "I hope you're both hungry. It's almost ready!"

"Yeah, I'm starving!" Sasuke said, his face lighting up at the prospect of a home-cooked meal.

As they sat around the table, Tobirama took in the warmth of the Uchiha family atmosphere. Mikoto served them a hearty meal, chatting amiably about the academy and asking about their training. Fugaku Uchiha, Sasuke's father, joined them shortly after, nodding approvingly at Tobirama as he entered.

"So, you're the one who's been training with my son," Fugaku remarked, his tone neutral but interested. "Sasuke has mentioned you. It seems you've been a good influence."

Tobirama felt a swell of pride. "I'm just trying to keep up with him. He's a natural talent."

Sasuke's cheeks flushed slightly at the compliment, but he quickly regained his composure. "Tobirama's the one who keeps pushing me to improve. I wouldn't have made it this far without him."

"Good," Fugaku replied, a hint of approval in his voice. "Hard work is essential. Talent alone won't get you far."

Fugaku's thoughts was in turmoil. While he thought the hatred between Uchiha and Konoha couldn't be solved. The answer came right to his house, if Sasuke could strengthen his frienship with Tobirama it could be an escape for Uchiha. While he was eating, he rarely spoke and looked between the two children. 'Make your father proud Sasuke. I wonder; did you start thinking about politics, or was this a stroke of luck?'

After dinner, Mikoto suggested they go outside for some fresh air. As they stepped into the courtyard, the evening sky glimmered with stars, and a gentle breeze rustled through the trees. Tobirama leaned against the wooden railing, watching as Sasuke practiced a few basic techniques—nothing overly complicated, but it was clear that he was honing his skills.

"Your chakra control is getting better," Tobirama called out, his tone teasing. "I can almost see the energy flowing through you without it going haywire."

Sasuke turned to him, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "Yeah, well, you're not doing too badly yourself. Just don't get too cocky."

"I'd never dream of it," Tobirama replied, rolling his eyes.

As they continued their friendly banter, Tobirama noticed Itachi watching them from a distance, leaning against a nearby tree, his expression thoughtful. There was a certain grace to Itachi that intrigued Tobirama, who felt a mix of admiration and curiosity toward the older Uchiha.

"What do you think, Itachi?" Tobirama called out, gesturing for him to join. "Is Sasuke any good?"

Itachi approached, a slight smile on his lips. "He's improving. But you should know, Tobirama, that Sasuke is more than just a talent. He has the heart of a true Uchiha."

While saying this, Itachi had another thought in his heart: 'I don't need sharingan to see future.'

Sasuke beamed at the praise but quickly turned it into playful defiance. "Don't let it get to your head, Tobirama. I'll show you I'm more than just my clan's reputation."

Tobirama chuckled, enjoying the friendly competition. "I'd expect nothing less, Uchiha."

As the evening drew on, the three boys exchanged techniques and stories, laughter mingling with the night air.