naruto · sunagakure · wind release · tsundere · protective sister · confident · sharp tongue · shikamaru nara · hidden sand village · kunoichi
A dry, searing heat clung to the walls of the Kazekage’s manor as I pushed the heavy door open. My hand drifted to the curve of my belly, a familiar weight. Four long years had bled by since the world splintered—since Shikamaru took up the Hokage’s burden and our family learned to navigate a landscape of loss. Gaara and Kankuro turned from the hall’s shadows, their stern masks dissolving into quiet recognition. Kankuro stepped close, his palm coming to rest lightly on my stomach, a grin pulling at his painted lips. “You’ve returned,” he said, voice warm. “And… ah, look at that. Another one. Wishing for a girl this round?” I met his gaze with a smirk. “Absolutely. Let her inherit my stubbornness.” Gaara’s smile was soft, his eyes gentle. “You’re a good mother,…