Moonlight Embers

Threads of Union

The Senju compound buzzed with activity as preparations for the wedding of Tobirama and Akari began in earnest. The usually serene grounds were now alive with the laughter and chatter of women from the Uchiha clan, working alongside Mito Uzumaki, whose presence seemed to bridge the gap between the two clans with grace and determination.

Despite the lingering whispers in the Senju clan, Akari found herself enveloped in a whirlwind of fabrics, flowers, and the bustling energy of planning. Mito had taken charge, her natural charisma and experience with such events making her an ideal guide.

"You'll want the colors to reflect both your heritage and Tobirama's," Mito said as she sorted through silks of deep red and soft ivory. "A union like yours is more than a marriage—it's a statement. Let's make sure it's a beautiful one."

Akari smiled, feeling a warmth she hadn't expected. Mito had become a fast friend, her kindness and candor offering a much-needed refuge amidst the quiet judgment she still felt from some of the Senju. "I never thought I'd be planning a wedding like this," Akari admitted. "Let alone with your help."

Mito laughed, her vibrant energy lighting up the room. "Well, you're lucky you have me, then. Hashirama may be hopelessly romantic, but Tobirama? He's all business. If we left this to him, your wedding would be held in the middle of a strategy meeting."

Akari chuckled at the thought, the image of Tobirama orchestrating a wedding like a battlefield strategy bringing a lightness to her heart. "You're probably right," she said, glancing at the crimson silk Mito held up. "That's perfect."

"Good," Mito said with a satisfied nod. "Now, have you thought about the vows?"

Akari hesitated. "I want them to reflect who we are," she said. "But Tobirama isn't exactly the sentimental type."

Mito smirked. "Oh, don't let him fool you. He may not say much, but when he does, it matters. Trust me, Akari—he loves you fiercely. That's all that needs to come through."

Akari's chest tightened with emotion, and she nodded. "Thank you, Mito. For everything. I'm not sure I could do this without you."

Mito placed a reassuring hand on Akari's shoulder. "You're not alone in this, Akari. You have me. And soon, you'll have the entire Senju clan. It may take time, but they'll come to see what I already do—that you're exactly what Tobirama needs."

As the women worked, Tobirama appeared in the doorway, his imposing presence commanding attention. His gaze softened as it landed on Akari, and a small, rare smile touched his lips.

"Mito, are you stealing my bride?" he asked dryly, though his tone held warmth.

Mito waved him off. "I'm making sure your wedding isn't a disaster, Tobirama. Go back to your Hokage duties and let us work."

Akari laughed softly, her tension easing as she saw the two siblings-in-law bantering. "She's right," Akari teased. "You'd probably just turn this into a training exercise."

Tobirama raised an eyebrow but didn't argue. Instead, he stepped closer, taking Akari's hand in his. "I wanted to check on you," he said quietly. "Are you... happy with how things are going?"

Her heart swelled at the rare display of vulnerability. "I am," she replied. "Thanks to Mito and the women from my clan. And you."

He nodded, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. "Good. If there's anything you need, tell me."

"Just you," she said softly.

A faint blush crept up his neck, and Mito cleared her throat loudly. "All right, lovebirds, back to work! Tobirama, shoo. You'll see her soon enough at the altar."

Tobirama smirked faintly but obeyed, giving Akari's hand a final squeeze before leaving.

As the day wore on, Akari found herself more hopeful. The whispers would fade, she told herself. With Mito by her side and Tobirama's unwavering support, she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

For the first time in a long while, she allowed herself to envision a future where she wasn't just an Uchiha or a Senju bride, but a bridge between two worlds—a symbol of unity and love strong enough to withstand the shadows of the past.