(2023/07/16) Author's note: Hey!

Back again with another chapter. I've been in a writing slump lately so this chapter took a little while to figure out and finish. We're getting close to the end - only 1/3 of the story remains! Isn't that exciting? Well, it is for me. Only a little more until we get to the real juicy bits of the fic (hehehe). Will there be more smut? More battles? More twists? Maybe - that is all I can say!

As always, thank you for reading and I hope you enjoy this chapter xx

Chapter 29
A War

Time had grown thin with the long winter that grasped to the winds.

Kyō sent an owl within mere hours after the hawk was sent, and it was made clear to Gaara that the summit between Earth and Mountain was imminent, and war was trailing close behind. Thankfully, the daimyos of both nations agreed to have the Kazekage as the mediator, being that Sunagakure was closely tied to Iwagakure and Yamagakure – through treaties and marriage, respectfully. It left Gaara with a mere week to prepare, but it was a week that was not spent idly. He was cooped up in his office day in and day out, scarcely leaving for dinner with his family, only to leave shortly after. Insomnia ate away at his consciousness, and his temper was stoked like a flame on a raging fire.

And Nomasaki was nearly due to give birth.

It was not long for thoughts of the unthinkable to occur, but Gaara pushed them aside with each scratch of his pen and click of his laptop's keyboard. The councillors took his angered silence and bid him no trouble. Only Kankuro was brave enough to approach during this crucial time. And Kyōkurō, too. His son was growing more adventurous and often took to standing along the desk chair as he worked and could go from sitting to standing without help. He was not far from walking, much to Meiyumi's horror. Gaara even held him on his lap while working sometimes, and Kyōkurō would babble on and flash his little fangs as he smiled. Nomasaki thought the visits would ease her husband, and they did. Although still shy around strangers, Kyōkurō loved waving hello and was learning how to wave goodbye. And Kyōkurō began gently patting his tiny hand on Nomasaki's swollen belly and babbling what sounded like 'baby.'

It was hard to believe their son celebrated his first birthday months ago.

And now a second child was due to arrive any day.

The horses buckled in their reins, terrified of the approaching wolf.

Luggage fell from the carriage as the attendants prepared it for the journey north, only frightening the horses further. It took three stable-hands to calm the beasts as the Kazekage's wife grew closer. Nomasaki looked upon them with disdain, and her fur cloak and dagger at her hip stunned the attendants who turned to take her in.

Gaara stayed silent, knowing what it was they were about to say.

He had the conversation with her as recently as last night, and Nomasaki was insistent on going to Yamagakure whether she was pregnant or not. That was the major point of contention, as she was one day past her due date with no sign of impending contractions. It was a volatile situation. Not wanting to have to attend an additional summit at his own home, Gaara relented. At least this time, he would be there to protect Nomasaki should anything go awry. And for that reason, he persuaded Kankuro and Meiyumi to stay in Sunagakure and watch their son.

This was an S-rank mission for them alone.

"My lady, must you go in your… condition?" An attendant gasped. "Aside from your pregnancy nearly being to term, you're still under house arrest by order of the Kazekage and Tsuchikage. Is it wise for you to leave?"

"The Kazekage is my escort for this visit," Nomasaki replied, her tongue sharp as ice. "As a daughter of Yamagakure, I must go." She grumbled under her breath, eyeing the whinnying creatures trying to bolt from the reins. "How I despise horses…"

An attendant beckoned Gaara's attention. "Kazekage-sama! Must we unload the carriage?"

Gaara nodded. "Yes, you must unload it. All of it."

"Wah!?" The attendant sighed, resigning himself to the task. "A-As you command, sir."

For some reason, the council assumed the Kazekage should take half their belongings anywhere they went. Gaara thought it was absurd. A shinobi has no need for luggage during missions. Why would a summit be any different? To think they thought this was a vacation, he thought. It was far from it.

Gaara stepped closer to the carriage, drawing the glances of all who were now unloading it. "We'll be travelling light this time around, so no need to carry it all the way to the north. Please unload it at the residence. The handmaidens will be there to receive it."

"Yes, Kazekage-sama. It will be done."

Gaara then turned to his wife, concern still marking his glance. "And you're sure about this? About…-,"

Nomasaki nodded. "Yes, I am." She looked down at her belly, holding it softly. Her lips curved into a loving smile, the purple flecks of her irises gleaming in the morning light. "I may be almost nine months pregnant with our second, but it's not stopping me from protecting my homeland. I owe Yamagakure and my father so much… I can't squander that in their moment of need." Her smile faded, and her glance narrowed with iron. "They need a wolf at the delegation table, much less any more sheep willing to bend to the Earth daimyo's will." She looked up at him, and it was her turn to be the concerned one. "And you're the mediator. Are you… prepared?"

"As prepared as one can be," Gaara sighed, insomnia tugging at his thoughts. "No doubt the Tsuchikage won't be pleased."

Nomasaki snorted. "Damn the old fart. He's going to leave the meeting with his pride shattered if I can say anything about it. His meddlesome granddaughter, too."

Gaara was humoured. "Already becoming quite the sharp-tempered diplomat, are we?"

She breathed a laugh. "I may say so," With a calm and dignified smile, she eyed her bodyguard, who stood idly by the estate gates. "Shijima, let's depart."

Shijima nodded, bowing her cloaked head. "As you wish, my lady."

In a blink, the Hōki disappeared into the creeping shadows of the morning sun, leaving the Kazekage and his wife to bid their goodbyes. Nomasaki met the warm, brown eyes of Meiyumi, who was equally as cautious as she was. And standing close between Meiyumi and Kankuro was her son. Kyōkurō had a finger in his mouth, observing his father and mother with his bright violet eyes. It seemed as though he knew they were leaving, and he appeared as if he might start to cry at any minute. It broke Nomasaki to leave him, but she knew it was what she must do.

"Meiyumi, we won't be long." She assured. "Please look after our son, and stay within the residence as much as possible. There's no telling what may happen while we're gone."

Meiyumi nodded, smiling kindly. "Kankuro and I have the place on lock, don't worry. If any of those Tenbu bastards show up, his puppet strings will detect them, and we'll deal with the threat. Kyōkurō will be safe, we promise."

"Mama," Kyōkurō babbled as he met his mother's glance, his soft voice drawing them all in. He then looked to Gaara and babbled again. "Pa…Papa."

Nomasaki and Gaara knelt and took their son in for a hug. The boy grabbed both of his parents, unwilling to let go. But he did not weep. Kyōkurō huddled between them, his little hands grasping them as tightly as he could. Gaara felt conflicted about leaving him and hurt swelled. He closed his ringed-eyes, his emotion hidden by the shadow of the Kazekage's hat he wore on his head. He did not want Kyōkurō to see him sad and wanted their parting to be easy.

Tears swam to Nomasaki's throat already, but she wiped them away. "We love you, Kyōkurō!" She cooed. "Be good to your aunt and uncle, okay?"

"Kay!"

Kyōkurō looked up at his parents and smiled his babble of an answer, his tiny fangs flashing in the sunlight. Nomasaki smiled back, warmed by his response. As Gaara helped her straighten her back, Kyōkurō hobbled to her belly, surprising the adults in the courtyard. The child had begun to walk.

Their son placed a light hand on her blue kimono. "Ba… Babee,"

"Yes, baby." Nomasaki placed her motherly hand over his. "You will be a big brother soon… When we come back, you will have a new brother or sister."

"Baba!"

Kankuro placed a hand on Gaara's shoulder, and exchanged a stern glance. "Good luck, little brother. Sunagakure will be standing by on your command."

Gaara nodded. "Keep watch. There's no telling what Tenbu might do while we're in Yamagakure."

Kankuro snorted. "The Puppet Corps will snare them in our strings before the ANBU can even blink. Those bastards are as good as dead should they step foot here."

I hope you're right, Gaara thought, They're increasingly hard to kill these days. He turned to Nomasaki at his side. "We should set out while it's still early."

She agreed. "Alright."

And it was now time to leave.

"Safe travels!" Meiyumi called. "Good luck!"

Turning, Nomasaki looked back at the estate's gates with a heavy heart. There was no telling what may happen at the summit in Yama, but the stakes were never higher. She placed a cautious hand over her belly as she walked at Gaara's side to the main road out of Suna.

This is for your future, Kyōkurō, Nomasaki thought, For both of you, and all the rest of us.

And the sand soon swept them across the desert lands.

They were whisked away to the lands in the north after a mere few hours.

Although Nomasaki was still fearful of flying, she did Gaara the good grace by not digging her claws into his arm this time. His Sand Armour could only take so much, after all. And for the first time in either of their lives, they saw sand and snow interwoven at the forest's edge. Winter claimed the towering cedars of the Land of Wind's scarce green canopy, and the drifts of white swirled into the dunes with artistic grace and beauty. It was unlike anything they had ever seen. Nomasaki took it as a sign of luck, for the bond of sand and snow was crucial in solving the delicate situation that threatened war. They would need her and Gaara to bring peace to Earth and Mountain – that was certain. Gaara thought the same and assured her all would be fine.

But something still gnawed in his thoughts.

If Genji or Temujin showed up, all would be lost – and there was no telling what might happen.

Holding his wife's hand, the Kazekage eased her off his sands and guided her to the forest's edge. His powers were only as strong as the desert would permit, and the sand in his gourd could not be wasted should he need it in Yama. And so, they had no choice but to make their descent. Nomasaki was grateful, as flying still frightened her to some extent. It did not take long to cross through the silver trees, and the vast expanse of white was soon laid out for them to bear witness.

The tundra was ominously quiet as they passed through on foot.

A few chimneys breathing smoke broke the white façade of the land – the Kumatsume settlement. The last time they passed, an entourage of excited clansmen rushed out to meet them and their newborn son. Today, barely a soul. It was a dire time, indeed. Some clansmen left their huts and thatched houses to observe the Kazekage and the Yamamori heiress make their way to Yamagakure, but most had stayed indoors.

So father must have told them, Nomasaki thought. She saw mothers guiding their children inside and old men putting out their pipes to return to their fires. Just like the Yamamori, the Kumatsume will be targets of Earth and Tenbu should things turn sour. She hoped they would heed her father's advice and stay hidden. Enough clans were wiped from existence by the Great Nations over the last century – and she desperately hoped hers and the Kumatsume clan would remain safe.

"Everything will be fine," Gaara assured.

He must have sensed her anxiety.

She squeezed his hand. "I hope so…"

The red gates of Yamagakure were a relieving sight.

Villagers made their way to take in their foreign guests, their faces joyous and some wary for what was to come. As Nomasaki took in the cold mountain air she loved, she saw children playing, merchants calling, and the wolves standing watch. Her heart swelled, and tears near choked her throat as she took her first breath. Gaara lightly squeezed her hand, his sand swirling her fingers like a gentle breeze. She welcomed the gesture but kept her face calm as they walked past the observing villagers.

Voices soon called out.

"Nomasaki-sama has returned!"

"Our lady is back!"

"Kazekage-sama has arrived! Tell the chieftain!"

Soon enough, they were greeted by Ekashiba and his underlings. He met them with a face drawn of stone. His violet eyes appeared dulled – exhausted. Undoubtedly, he was still grieving the loss of his son, especially with the enemies at their doorstep. He kept his emotions hidden, wearing a stoic expression. "How fared your travels, my lady?"

"Fair," Nomasaki breathed a laugh, dissipating the dread. "Winter makes for easier travel. Although, it will be nice to be beside the hearth for a little while before the delegations."

Sayuri appeared from the crowd, her face beaming. "Let me escort you, my lady." She froze upon seeing her bulging belly. "Oh my!"

Nomasaki chuckled, her face blushing a little. "It's been a while, Sayuri."

"I'd say! You're having another child?" Sayuri giggled. "I swear, every time you return to Yama, you're either pregnant or post-partum!" She guided Nomasaki gently towards the path. "This way, my lady. The manse has a fire in the hearth waiting."

Gaara stayed behind as he noticed Kyō emerge from the crowd.

The chieftain leaned on his carved walking stick, and Gaara swore he had more grey hairs in his beard than he neglected to remember. It would not surprise him if the dilemma was aging him from the stress. Yamagakure, on the brink of war, Tenbu, and his heavily pregnant daughter arriving unexpectedly. A weaker man would have likely gone mad.

"Gaara," Kyō managed to greet him with his usual warmness. "I was wondering when you were coming! A day early is a day gained in marking strategy, right?"

"You're not wrong," Gaara waited until the crowd of villagers began to dissipate. The words burned on his tongue the longer he held them. "How dire is the situation?"

Kyō sighed, moving his glance to the mountains and tundra beyond. "The worst in decades, I'm afraid. Even after our last correspondence, the Earth daimyo sent his dogs to try to aggravate the Yamamori patrolling the border. They want another incident, it seems. They're trying to push us to war." A cold wind passed, moving his fur cloak and cracking the flaps of the Kazekage's hat. "She couldn't stay idle?"

Gaara shook his head, a smile near daring to form on his lips. "She insisted on coming. She said a wolf must be present at the delegation table."

"Ah," Kyō breathed. A chuckle passed his cold breath. "She's right. Maybe eyeing the jaws of wolves would have Earth and Iwagakure singing a different tune, eh?" But then his smile died. "I wish it shouldn't have to come to this. Ekashiba's son, and my own daughter as a target…"

Gaara turned to him, his glance stoic in understanding. "We'll do what we must to secure Yamagakure's future and the stability of the Shinobi Union. The Yamamori and Kumatsume clans will remain safe. I promise you that as Fifth Kazekage."

"Thank you, Gaara. Now come," The chieftain turned on his heel, his walking stick impaling the snow as he proceeded towards the manse. "Politics can wait for a few more hours. Let's feast before the gruelling day that awaits us tomorrow!"

And Gaara decided he might as well follow.

The feast was an event of splendour in a time of peril.

Roasted venison, leek and rabbit stew, braided honeyed bread, and many other decadent dishes filled the bellies of those within the chieftain's manse. It was a crowded place, given the state of affairs. The cold of winter drew the villagers to the warmth of the roaring hearth, and they stayed to hear the stories of their neighbours and wish good tidings to the visitors from Suna. Nomasaki's pregnancy brought expected attention from the villagers and clansmen, congratulating the couple and wishing them the best. Thankfully, they were not kept long as they were during the solstice celebrations. As villagers began to return to their homes at the feast's closing, Sayuri joined them beside the hearth fire in conversation.

"Do you know what you're having yet?"

Nomasaki smiled, warmed. She placed a hand on her belly in marvel. A laugh passed her lips. "We want it to be a surprise, but… I would hope for it to be a daughter."

Gaara could not help but smile upon seeing his wife's joy.

He did not care if the child was a son or a daughter. As long as the child was healthy, he would be happy. The council was incessant on their wishes for another son should the heir need a spare, but Gaara tuned them out. If a daughter were to be born, the council would have a fit – and deservingly so. But despite being a father already, Gaara was secretly nervous about becoming a father a second time. Only Nomasaki knew this, but she also confided in him that she was fearful about becoming a mother again. Once again, Gaara was reminded she was the right choice.

She always was.

Sayuri beamed. "Any names picked out? You must be excited!"

"Hm, none yet." Nomasaki shook her head. "We have another few weeks until the due date, so we still have lots of time -," A sudden pain tore through her. "Ungh…!"

A contraction.

Gaara's heart stopped.

Nomasaki winced, clutching her belly lightly. Her eyes shut tight from the wave of pain that coursed through her core, shuddering from her hips to her shoulders. It was far worse than the pains she experienced only weeks before. Just as they feared, the time grew too close.

Sayuri grasped Nomasaki's hand, holding it tightly. "My lady! Breathe, yes, and again,"

Shuddering, Nomasaki took a long breath of the warm air and slowly exhaled. She did it again, and each time she did so, her pain eased. Sweat beaded on her forehead, marking her evidence of agony. She turned to Sayuri, her violet eyes frightened and drained. "Thank you,"

Gaara lightly brushed aside the gold strands that stuck to her face, eyeing her concerningly. "Are you alright?"

"I'm… I'm fine." She breathed, panic evident in her gaze. "It's just a light contraction."

"Well, if I may say this, Nomasaki-sama," Sayuri giggled. "If you're not careful, your child may be born in Yamagakure!" She stood, brushing off the crumbs on her kimono's lap. "I'll draw you a hot bath. I'll prepare a nice, relaxing tea for you, too. Chamomile, my lady?"

Nomasaki brought herself to feign a smile and nodded.

After exchanging a bow, Sayuri soon left the great hearth hall.

"Nomasaki?"

Gaara's voice drew her away from her held stare at the corridor. She flinched at first but took a calming breath to relax. She looked at him, feigning a smile. "I'm okay, I promise." She looked down at her belly, cradling it lovingly in her hands. "This one is just getting settled, is all."

He was not convinced. "Are you sure you don't want me to send for the midwives?"

"I'm fine, Gaara. Really, I am!"

The fire roared before them. Under its orange glow, no one else noticed Nomasaki taking Gaara's hand in hers. She squeezed it tight, and Gaara understood her fear. Coming here now was no doubt a mistake, but it was too late to return to Sunagakure. She could not go back.

He tenderly squeezed it back, hoping to quell her fears.

They were not in the guest room for ten minutes before a Yamamori clansman arrived that night to bear a message. "My lady, Kazekage-sama," He spoke nearly as dimly as the sconce lights. His violet eyes were deep with urgency and grief. "If I may have a moment,"

"Of course," Nomasaki let him in, sliding the door closed after he entered. "What's on your mind? Do you have anything to report?"

The Yamamori shook his head. "No, my lady," His lips hesitated, and seeing so struck Nomasaki. He arrived with grim news. "It's the matriarch… Chizue-sama. She's… Her health is ailing, as you are aware. But as of late…-," Choked, he wiped his eyes with his sleeves. "Sorry. Forgive me."

"It's alright. Take your time." Nomasaki sat on the bed, placing her hands on her lap.

She kept a calm, graceful stature while Gaara opted to stand and observe from the nearby open porch. The cold entered, striking the room. She felt a shiver creep up her spine. Dissipating the quiet, she pulled a handkerchief from the nightstand and passed it to her clansmen.

"Oh," He sniffed. "Thank you, my lady,"

"I understand she's had ill health,"

The Yamamori nodded. "I'm her caretaker and have been making the rounds to gather her medicinal herbs, but… they haven't been working as they once had," He sighed, placing the tissue into his pocket. "I'm afraid that her time in this life is coming to an end. She has been on bedrest for months, and now she refuses to eat. She's having delusions and isn't speaking clearly. She's conversing with clansmen who have come and gone, alone or with her attendants. Her sharp wit is declining rapidly, and she's become deathly frail."

Nomasaki felt her calm shatter like broken ice.

It was happening.

Gaara must have sensed her shock as he walked beside her and touched her shoulder. She looked up at him, wide-eyed and distraught. Averting her gaze to her lap, she instinctually grasped his hand as she became lost in her ruminating thoughts. Her burden, her birthright.

"Nomasaki-sama," The Yamamori spoke, all trace of his sorrow gone. His tone was firm, drawing their attention. "You must see Chizue-sama before she passes. She must see you – or at least acknowledge you as the next matriarch of the clan." He knelt, bowing to her. "It would fulfill her dying wish to have spoken with you before passing this life… Please, you must see her."

Having someone bow to her in such a way was bewildering, at best.

Nomasaki sat in bewildered silence.

To have the matriarch pass at such a time was another inconvenience to add between Suna, Yama and its struggles with Iwa and Tenbu. Nomasaki was the last of the main household of her ancient clan through her mother, and the role was unfilled for nearly fifty years as much of the clan went into hiding. Chizue took up the mantle when the clan was re-established during the Yamagakure Restoration, as she was the oldest surviving Yamamori of the Land of Frost and the branch house of the family. She lived for nearly a century and was blind for the last ten years of her life. And Nomasaki still had so much she wanted to ask her, to learn from her. The ritual, the clan rites, anything and everything she knew, Nomasaki wished to learn.

She felt as if a part of her was dying with her.

Nomasaki brought herself to nod. "Very well," She finally spoke, meeting his glance with equal firmness. "I will embark as soon as these discussions with Iwa and Earth end. Please send a hawk - an owl, to her attendants and inform them of my arrival."

"As you wish, my lady." The Yamamori nodded and took his leave. Briefly, he nodded to Gaara as his ringed-eyes followed him on his way out. "Kazekage-sama,"

The door sliding shut evoked a cold silence.

Nomasaki was lost for words, her gaze fixated on the door even moments after all had been said. Gaara looked down at her sympathetically. The last of the main house… lies with her, Gaara reminded himself.

She spoke first, emotion grasping her voice. "I… I thought I'd have more time,"

"You couldn't do anything to stop it," Gaara assured, holding her shoulder. "It's not your fault."

She hung her head low, her shoulders shuddering. "But all my blood seems to do is complicate things! Just one thing after another…"

He sat beside her, taking her hands in his. "We'll get through this, Nomasaki. We will."

Timidly, she looked at him and met his calming seafoam eyes.

And for a brief moment, she felt everything would be alright.

The night did not bring much peace.

Gaara barely slept from his gnawing insomnia and merely kept his eyes closed in the hopes of sleep finding him somehow. Even as she lay in Gaara's arms in the bed of furs, Nomasaki stirred and woke throughout the night. No more contractions had come, and for that, she was relieved. However, her dreams grew ominous. Behind her eyes was a world of white and silver. Howls rang through the snowy skies, and snow lilies dotted the land with their beautiful blue petals. But then a red sun emerged from the clouds and plunged into shadow.

And the dream continued the more she slept.

The day had come.

Villagers hid inside their homes that morning, with every window and door locked as if preparing for an impending storm. The shinobi bearing the Yama inscription on their headbands glared in stern silence as the delegates from the Land of Earth and Iwagakure arrived with their litter. Purple-eyed wolves watched from the cover of the forest thicket as the foreign daimyo, and Tsuchikage passed through the red gates on the mountaintop. Kyō stood with firm hands on his walking stick as if a blade pierced in the snow, meeting their disconcerting glances.

The summit was to take place within the main hall of the manse.

All were forbidden from witnessing, with the exception of the guards who stood diligently at their posts by the grand doors. Not even the handmaidens were permitted to cross the wooden floors. Thankfully, Sayuri was the only exception. Nomasaki made the case for her condition that at least one handmaiden be present – and Kyō gladly agreed. Shijima, however, had to resign herself to standing guard amongst the shadows and not at her lady's side. The daimyo said nothing as he entered with his litter of servants, scribes, and advisors. But the Tsuchikage scoffed at the carpentry and craftsmanship of the manse, calling it 'old-fashioned' and 'tacky.' Nomasaki nearly lashed out, but Gaara held her hand tightly, soothing her anger as they were seated surrounding the great roaring hearth. The daimyo of the Land of Mountains was the last to arrive, for he was elderly, and his entourage was too numerous and slow to scale the mountain. He was met with little fanfare as the daimyo held his distance from the supposed 'cursed' village in his country's north. The Yamamori would rather spit at his feet – especially the Kumatsume. For the first summit in the Land of Mountains, its tension rivalled that of the Five Kage Summit in the Land of Iron before the last war.

And today, they would attempt to prevent or delay another.

Ekashiba strode to the mouth of the hearth, gathering the guests' attention.

"Lords, ladies," He began, his voice as firm as frost. "I am Ekashiba of the proud Yamamori clan. I will be facilitating the discussions taking place on this winter's day." He gestured to Gaara's seat, their glances following. "Kazekage-sama has graciously accepted the position as a mediator for these delegations, and it will do you all well to listen to him." His tone grew stern, as did his violet glance. "Should any of you need to use force to gain what you desire, this manse is watched and guarded by my clansmen… who would not hesitate to hunt you down on the spot, should you dare draw a weapon." He turned to Gaara, meeting his ringed-eyes. "Kazekage-sama, you may open discussions when ready."

Gaara nodded and prepared to start. "Thank you, Ekashiba -,"

"Hmph!" The first advisor of the Earth daimyo huffed. "Yamagakure must be nervous if they have their guard dogs sniffing at our heels! Do you not trust the authority of our Earth daimyo?!"

The Earth daimyo held up his palm, quieting his barking. "I must agree, Kazekage-sama. If these wolves stay at our door, we might not feel welcome to continue these discussions. May I kindly ask the Kazekage to dismiss these dogs, if you will?"

Nomasaki tensed in her seat, her blood simmering.

"The wolves stay," Gaara answered, unmoving. "And so should you unless you feel the need to leave a coward."

Ōnoki scoffed. "Insolent runt!" His back promptly shattered, shooting tendrils of pain through his spine. "Ow! My back!"

Kurotsuchi yawned beside her grandfather, uninterested. "Gramps, chill…"

The tension in the room was palpable.

Then Kyō decided he was the one to speak first.

"I will begin," He cleared his throat, channelling his frustration into diplomacy. He eyed the room with an expression of stoicism, dominating the hostility that floated abound. "For those of you who can't bring yourselves to read the letters I've sent, I'm Kyō of the Wind Blade. I was once a shinobi of Sunagakure, but fate had whisked me here to the north, where I've helped the people of Yamagakure and the Yamamori clan rebuild after years of war. When the restoration of Yama was completed, the people of this village voted me in as their chieftain, and I intend to rule this place with honour as they so wished." He closed his hazel eyes, breathing in and exhaling with careful precision. "My concerns for our peace have plagued me since the day I was sworn in as chieftain. The borders of Earth and Mountain have been long disputed for centuries, it is true… but the Land of Mountains has claimed dominion over the contested mines since time immemorial. Those lands are covered in a deep layer of snow and frost – signifying our people's right to the earth on which they sit. The territory of the Land of Earth does not contain our snowy mountains or tundra… so the fact that this issue was even raised makes me suspicious that some feel our village's restoration and continued existence is a threat."

"Ho, ho," The Earth daimyo snorted. "I heard the Deserter was elected chieftain but never once thought it was true. And now the exile is causing further political strife…" He looked to Gaara, unimpressed. "Are you responsible for his freedom, Kazekage-sama? There are rumours about how deep Suna's puppet strings have set… and of your village's own intentions with your northern ally. Some say Suna wants those rights to the mines instead. But this is plain to see. You only care to help Yamagakure because you wed the Deserter's daughter – and here she carries your child in her belly."

Nomasaki seethed.

A subtle snarl erupted on her lips as her fangs dared to emerge.

"I'm Kazekage," Gaara retorted, meeting his taunts with iron. "What Yamagakure chooses to do with the mines does not concern Sunagakure. But when an ally of Suna is threatened by a supposed member of the Shinobi Union, one must question those intentions. Is that not correct, Earth daimyo?" His ringed-eyes narrowed, a certain viciousness within them. "And leave my wife out of this. Personal attacks are not to be tolerated in this place. Should you have any foul words to bark out, do so outside. Those breaths are wasted here."

"Why is she here?" Ōnoki peered across the room, meeting Nomasaki's contemptuous stare. "Is she not supposed to be on house arrest? We had an agreement."

"It's unwise to leave a heavily pregnant woman unattended, sir," Nomasaki spoke aloud, her voice sharp as a blade. "Last time, I was nearly killed by Tenbu before the birth of our first child. I'm not taking that risk again with the second."

The Fence-Sitter scoffed. "Smart girl."

The Earth daimyo's advisor was still not convinced. "Surely you could have made other arrangements, Kazekage-sama? This seems a bit… skewed."

"She is under an exception for this crucial discussion," Gaara said, keeping his anger at bay. "She is not only my wife but the ambassador of Suna – and the heiress of the Yamamori clan."

The title of heiress stung a little.

Nomasaki addressed the room again, drawing their glances. "Kyō, as you know, is my father. I have every right to be in this room." She shot a smug glare to the advisor. "I would argue more than you, sir."

"The Wolf of the Desert has a foul tongue when provoked," Ōnoki snorted, eyeing the Earth delegates. "I learned as much at our last meeting."

A twinge of pain struck her.

Nomasaki shut her eyes tight, hoping the pain would leave. But it was as she feared – a contraction. If she was not careful, her child would become the next delegate to join the meeting. The humour was lost as another wave crawled across her lower abdomen.

"Easy," Gaara whispered.

He squeezed her hand, and she squeezed back but harder. And from her clawed fingers, he could tell the amount of pain she was in. He let his sand swirl at her fingertips, calming her. Fortunately, no one at the meeting saw or heard.

The advisor sneered in her direction, drawing her ire. "Your sentence… I believe you still have your end of the bargain to hold up. How is Kotatsu's family doing since the senseless loss of his life, hm? You are to confess to his surviving wife and children why their father will never return home -,"

"The bargain will be fulfilled after the birth of her child." Kyō barked, his patience running thin. "Enough of this, now. We've convened to discuss the dilemma of our borders."

Kotatsu, Nomasaki thought, He has a name…

Her heart sank.

"Very well, Kyō-sama. I'll start," The Earth daimyo spoke. He glared at the Yama and Suna delegates. "The Land of Mountains sits on stolen land. Land once mined by the many clans and shinobi families who lived in what later became the Land of Earth! Yamagakure is actively infringing on our natural borders."

"If I may speak,"

Ekashiba's voice drew their attention.

Gaara met his jarring violet eyes and saw the pain and anger that swam within them. He nodded, trusting his judgment. "You may."

"Thank you, Kazekage-sama." Ekashiba cleared his throat, then eyed the room with a sternness that rivalled stone itself. He strode back and forth before the hearth's fire, the flames rising at his back as he spoke. "Our people, the Yamamori, are among the oldest and most ancient clans of the known world. We've existed before shinobi villages, before the Five Great Nations, and even before the Sage of Six Paths. Our oral histories tell us we guarded the land of tundra, mountain, and snow – a land flanked by the plateaus of Earth, the desert of Wind, and the wastes of Claw. No wolf has laid claim to any land outside our ancestral home, which is where the borders draw the Land of Mountains and Yamagakure." He paused, and to Nomasaki, she realized he was choking back a breath. Grief was in his throat, and rage was not far behind. "My son – Toshiro, he was scouting for the threat of Tenbu along our borders, near the edge of our tundra… when he was struck by arrows meant for Nomasaki-sama."

Miraculously, the Earth and Iwa delegates remained silent.

Nomasaki quivered in her seat. Memories of the sight of the slain wolf, the funeral pyre, and the arrow that flew from her bow flashed painfully before her eyes. It was as if she relived it all over again. The pain in the young woman's shrieks of loss, her own beastly cry for justice as she loosed her arrow at the Iwa-nin – the ghastly noises haunted her. Gaara noticed her sorrowful distress, eyeing her in concern and sympathy. He sent his sand again, hoping its gentle, soothing touch would ease her.

Ekashiba's voice grew harsher. "It is my understanding that Nomasaki-sama was framed for the assaults of many settlements within the Land of Earth and that the matter is mostly resolved… but my son didn't have to die." His fangs were barred as the shouts left his snarling lips. "I am angered that today you come from Earth and Iwa not to apologize or ask forgiveness for my gallant son's death, but to tell me my ancestral land is not mine! We of the Yamamori who survived in the Land of Frost as refugees had no home for almost a century! And now, when our people are united after peace among shinobi is finally achieved… you tell us the land isn't ours? This is our land!" His anger calmed. "All we have is our land, and it was because of this land that Yamagakure survived. The land was scarred and pillaged by Ishigakure, Iwagakure, and lawless mercenaries countless times over the century since the birth of shinobi villages, but it has persevered and stood strong. Strong as this mountain if I don't say so myself." He turned to his sworn chieftain. "Kyō-sama?"

"Thank you, Ekashiba." Kyō nodded in approval. "I agree wholeheartedly with what my right-hand has said. The Land of Mountains has always been a small nation but a mighty one. Yamagakure as well. We may have less than a few hundred shinobi, but Yama has proved to be a force to be reckoned with. The return of the Yamamori clan to the north was a sign that things have changed… and old wounds could someday heal." He addressed the Earth daimyo specifically, eyeing him with a cautious glance. "With the iron and gold mines up and running again after the last war, the economy for our nation vastly increased – putting us on par with the Five Great Nations for our gross domestic product. For the first time since the Warring States Era, our people are thriving." He leaned his back into his seat, sitting firm and dignified. "As the chieftain of Yamagakure, I plead that democracy and wisdom will prevail and keep our mines in our own nation."

The Earth daimyo snorted. "How ironic it is that Yama starts using the mines as these Tenbu fiends begin causing havoc in borders other than your own,"

Ōnoki inched in his seat, eyeing his ruler with question. "Earth daimyo, you're not suggesting what I think you are?"

"Tsuchikage-sama, I'm nearly as old as you are, yet not even the Fence-Sitter seems to see the truth. These wolves are playing us all for fools!" Snarls erupted from Ekashiba's lips and the Yamamori guardsmen at the doors. Nomasaki's fingers grew clawed, and her fangs bulged from her mouth. A snarl danced at her lips as well, her blood boiling. And the wolves had been angered. "If I had to guess, I would say Yama is busy mining ore to smelt and make weapons and tools of war!"

Kyō meet his glare with equal measure, narrowed and suspicious. "Tread carefully, Earth daimyo. For what you are saying in this room may be used against you. Are you accusing Yamagakure of treason?"

One of the Mountain daimyo's aides stood. "An outrage!"

And it was then that Nomasaki lost her temper.

"How dare you invoke such an accusation!" She shouted, her fangs growing larger. "Why would we want to start a war, after all that we've been through as shinobi?! Yamagakure has only held peace for the three years following its restoration!"

The Earth advisor sneered. "You dare speak to the daimyo with such a tone?"

"I will dare speak as I wish!" She barked, her voice snarling. "I will have you know that the land which you are attempting to annex is within the lawful borders of the Land of Mountains, and has been for centuries! This land is ours!"

"Keh!" The Earth daimyo scoffed. "You wolves stole it. It was our land!"

"It was never yours!" She stood unabashedly. "My people have bled and died for that land! Yours have pillaged and raped, claiming all territory under your godforsaken banners!" Rage pulsed in her veins, the beast inside rumbling and evoking its presence. The Wolf of the Desert had been angered. "The Land of Earth has no mountains, may I remind you. It's simple geography, after all. You stone-treaders should know that!"

The advisor glared her way. "Hurling insults won't get you anywhere, she-wolf. Know your place and sit down!"

"I won't!" She shot back. "Not until you realize the truth that's right in front of you!" She flickered her glance to everyone who sat in that room. Her eyes were angered, grieving, and desperate. Hope had died. "Yamagakure has a right to exist! My people – the Yamamori – they have a right to exist! I have a right to exist," Tears nearly flowed from her eyes as she placed her palm over her swollen belly. "And my children have a right to exist! As do all those bearing the name Yamamori and Kumatsume! I will not stand by idly as one nation bullies another over petty squabbles started by mere mercenaries!"

A wave of pain thundered through her.

Another contraction – but this one felt far worse.

The time had come.

She fell to her knees and cried out. "Ah! Ungh -!"

"Nomasaki!" Gaara was instantly at her side. He held her shoulders as she shuddered in agony, and tears flowed from her shut eyes as she took laboured breaths. In his heart, he knew. "Are you alright? Is it…?"

"My lady!" Sayuri ran across the room, weaving past the standing delegates.

Nomasaki could barely talk without wincing in pain. She leaned back into Gaara's hold, holding her belly and forcing the cries back with each breath. "My stomach… it hurts so much!"

Sayuri carefully assessed her, flitting her glance over the room. Then she saw it – water. The fabric of Nomasaki's dress was soaked. Alarmed, she looked up at the Kazekage. "I think Nomasaki-sama is in labour. Her water broke!"

Gaara froze.

Today, he realized. A panicked joy filled his heart where anger once lay, but time was of the essence. "Kyō!" He called out. "Send for a medic-nin!"

Nomasaki wanted to weep. "In my anger, I spurred this one to move…" She nearly laughed if not for the intense pain that coursed through her belly and spine. "Gaara, I can't move…!"

He kissed her hand as he held it, eyeing her protectively. "You'll be alright. I promise."

Her purple eyes glistened with tears as she smiled back. Before she could utter a word, another contraction struck her. She breathed a curse. "Damn it…!"

When Kyō saw his daughter writhing, he knelt beside them. "We must take her to the medical centre," He looked Gaara in the eyes. "The doctor must oversee this delivery -,"

"Kyō-sama!"

Looking up, they saw a Yama-nin enter the manse. A loud gust of violent wind and snow followed him in, and it took all four guards to bar the door. Even once the doors were sealed shut, the howling of the winds thundered against the chieftain's household. A storm was brewing outside.

"What do you have to report?"

"A blizzard, sir!" The Yama-nin nodded. "It's moving fast over the mountain range. We've had no choice but to close the road out of safety concerns, sir." The wind howled against the manse, thundering against the wooden walls and rooftop. "This could be the worst of the year!"

Kyō was disgruntled. "Can you summon the village doctor?"

"I'm not sure, sir, but I'll try!"

And the Yama-nin braved the storm and once more ventured outside.

The winds howled, and snow burst forth as the doors opened but were quieted after much effort of the guards to close the doors once more. Voices swam and chattered amongst the commotion, reminiscent of the ill-fated summit in the Land of Iron. Gaara tried not to think of it, as comforting his wife and getting her somewhere safe to deliver was his utmost priority. Nomasaki breathed in and out slowly, hoping to yield the pain until help could arrive.

She regretted allowing Meiyumi to stay in Suna – and was now paying for it.

Kurotsuchi watched the scene unfold with a grin. "Finally! Something interesting happens!"

The Fence-Sitter agreed. "Imagine that. The she-wolf pushed herself so far in her rage that she triggered her labour. Now that makes for an interesting summit!" A flicker of chakra struck his alarm. "Kurotsuchi," Ōnoki whispered, drawing her ear. "Do you sense anything off about our daimyo?"

"Hm?" She focused in and then felt the presence. "His chakra…"

Kyō stood, observing the daimyo from afar. "Yes, I feel the same." He turned to Gaara. "Kazekage-sama, have you experienced dispelling genjutsu?"

Gaara shook his head. "Not of this calibre,"

"I may be of use," Ekashiba stepped forward. "Allow me to deal with the afflicted."

Ōnoki scoffed. "By all means!"

Standing before the Earth daimyo's seat, Ekashiba focused his chakra.

His blood boiled, surging for the moment to escape and shift into his beast form. But he held it at bay. Eyes closed, he breathed in the warmth of the hearth, the hint of coals, and sensed every chakra that emanated from the room. Upon each inhale, his blood surged further.

"Secret Art! Beast's Intent!"

The intent to kill.

He shot his eyes open, revealing his beastly visage.

Fangs protruded from his mouth, and his face was elongated into a muzzle. It was as if he had become a demon. A truly horrifying sight for those not of the wolf blood. The Earth daimyo gasped, frightened, and slumped back in his chair. The daimyo's eyes turned white – and then his chakra suddenly changed. The fear had dispelled whatever genjutsu it was. Clearly, it was not a powerful jutsu, but it indeed performed the task of sowing distrust among nations.

Kyō leaned in. "What jutsu was that…?"

"Not a jutsu," Ekashiba scoffed. "I just had to scare the living daylights out of him. You can pull someone from a genjutsu trance by transferring chakra or striking the afflicted, but I'd rather frighten them from it. Less violence, I think."

Kyō wanted to laugh, but it seemed inappropriate given that his daughter was in labour. He put a hand on his shoulder, meeting his glance gratefully. "You can take it from here,"

Ekashiba nodded.

The Earth daimyo stirred, finally waking from his stupor. A jolt shot through his skull, the pain returning each time he blinked his eyes. "My head… Why does it hurt so much? Have I fallen?"

"Sir?" The advisor stood, concerned.

"Where are we? This doesn't look like the Earth Court!"

The advisor turned sheepish. "We're in the hall of the mountain village, my lord."

"Yamagakure?" The Earth daimyo gaped. "Why are we here…?"

Genji must have planted a genjutsu on him when he saw him last, Gaara realized, That crafty bastard… attempting to bait us into war. "Earth daimyo, what is your stance on Yamagakure keeping its current borders?"

"My stance -? My stance is that I have no - argh!"

Nomasaki snapped her fanged jaws and snarled in his direction. The daimyo cowered, frightened for his life. "You dare forget why you're here?! I will show you why you're here! Yama -,"

A contraction pulsed, and she let out an agonizing scream.

Gaara turned to Kyō, panic rising in his chest. "Where should we take her?"

"To the master bedroom," Kyō looked to the handmaiden. "Sayuri, escort Kazekage-sama and my daughter! Summon all the handmaids in the manse!"

Sayuri nodded. "Yes, Kyō-sama!" Carefully and with Gaara's help, the handmaiden stood Nomasaki on her feet. "Let's go, my lady. Deep breaths,"

As she was gingerly guided towards the corridor, Nomasaki pointed back at the daimyo with a clawed finger, snarling viciously. "We're not done! I'll be back… You'll regret threatening my people! I will not stop until justice… is served!"

Her screams echoed down the hall as she left.

And the room fell into silence.

"This meeting will resume tomorrow," Ekashiba spoke, gesturing toward the guest beds. "Allow me to escort you to where you'll be staying,"

In the flurry of the delegates emerging from their chairs, the Earth daimyo looked around the room and hearth in absolute bewilderment. "Where are we again…?"

And the blizzard raged on.