[AU] In a world where hearts can be carved from obsidian, made from flames, or be tough, sinewy muscle that anyone can see, two children try navigating the ups and downs of friendship and sorrow. Or, Kakashi's heart breaks, and Gai's heart is cut open.

Kakashi isn't pleased to see Gai being carted back like a sack of rice, and makes his displeasure known. Meanwhile, two teachers have a discussion.

Shinobi and civilians rarely have the same opinion. The nature of Kakashi and Gai's relationship is just one of many.

A person doesn't earn the nickname 'Beast' in something as dehumanizing as war without working for it.

The start of a team later known as Team Disaster, consisting of Genma, Ebisu and Gai.

The times Gai carried his teammates, and the time they carried him.

Trying to identify people by their face was like trying to identify chickens by their face. Impossible.

Gai is born a girl, and absolutely nothing changes.