Chapter 21

Yami: (Sits on the porch area casually still and tries to shake the weak feeling as he sees the stars are disappearing from the dusk sky).

Tori: (He checks up on Yami now that he is up).  You, ok?

Yami: (Looks back Tori casually able to see he’s a little paler like being under the weather but other than that being his normal self).  Yeah, guess you guys waking up finally?

Tori: (He looks worried about Yami seeing him like this).  Yeah… I guess so are you sure you’re alright?

Yami: Yeah, sure just gotta get out of this city, to many people around.  (He seems cautious to take darkness in such a big city area so just shrugs it off seeing Tori seems concerned though clearly less energetic than normally).  Just tell me when leaving, I’ll deal with it till then.

Tori: Well, it’s still early so go run off to the nearby forest and take some.  It would be good for you if you did that.

Yami: Yeah, kind of got lost though so think just going to wait.  (He shrugs like it’s no big deal).

Tori: If you’re sure….

Yami: (Waves Tori away and goes back to relaxing seeming a little cold).

 

Chazz and Tori get ready for the day a few moments passing before the door to the room opens Kura coming in casually being not at all phased by the fact Tori is currently changing or that Chazz has a towel wrapped around his waist.

Kura: I was just checking if everyone is up and getting ready.  I hope Yami did not keep you two up.

Yami: (Heard from porch still).  Hey, I didn’t do anything!

Tori: (He sighs as Chazz runs back into the bathroom).  You can never knock properly now can you Kura?

Kura: (Laughs).  Well then reactions like that will not happen though I believe I have made Hiki jealous walking in here.  Pretend I am not here, just checking on Yami.  (She raises her voice so Chazz can hear her and then says normally).  Anyways I hope everyone slept well….  (She looks at Yami seeing he’s a little weak and pale and sighs looking down).  Yami….

Yami: Sis I’m fine, don’t worry about it no big deal.

Kura: (Shakes her head).  …. At least let me help you clean up.

Yami: (Begins to argue as Kura fixes his hair dragging him into the room more).

Kura: (Sighs shaking her head, Tori able to see a little darkness from Kura going to Yami even though Yami continues saying he’s fine).  Yami… Just take a little energy.

Yami: (Sees Kura’s worried look and crosses his arms looking away).  Fine… But not like can’t handle it till we get back, not that bad.

Kura: I know but just so you have a little more color.  You look a bit weak.  (As more energy is given, he looks a little less pale slowly).

Yami: (Crosses his arms and pouts).  Hey not weak, not cool.

Kura: Of course, now you can fight Tori again to prove it when we get back.  (She laughs a little patting Yami’s head then looks back at Tori still seeming un-phased from walking in on them getting ready).  You may want to get dressed now I suppose, sorry to interrupt.

Tori: Yeah, thanks for letting me now.  We will out as soon as we are done.

Kura: (Smiles and nods giving Yami a change of clothes).  Yami, do you need any help?

Yami: Hey not that little anymore, I can do it myself!

Kura: No shouting, it’s rude.  (She pulls Yami’s ear).

Yami: (Tries to get Kura to let go).  Hey not cool, let go!

Kura: (Laughs and let’s go).  At least you seem more energetic now, I’ll go back then.  I will see you when you are ready to get going.  (She smiles and tugs Tori ear a little before leaving).

Tori: (As he rubs his ear after Kura is done).  Yes, yes.

Kura: (Laughs and leaves the room closing the door to see Hiki next to it).  Oh, Hiki did you need me to tell them anything else?  They are just getting dressed at the moment so they will be out when they are done.

Jennifer: (Overhears as she is fixing her hair and blushes).  Y-you saw them changing?

Kura: (Seems more casual about the fact).  I suppose though Chazz seemed to run back into the bathroom.  I must have scared him.

Hiki: I’m… A bit upset about that, but it wouldn’t be the first time for me knowing on how… He can be such a scatterbrain.

Kura: (Smiles and laughs a little).  It’s alright Hiki, I have no interest in him… So, you do not need to worry about battling against me as well.  (She smiles kindly at Hiki with a sincere look).

Hiki: I know you don’t.

Kura: (Nods and looks over to see a door open with Kairi walking into the room still in her pink nightgown).  It looks like the birthday girl is awake as well.

Kairi: (Still holds her bunny stuffed animal close as she rubs the sleep from her eyes).  Hood morning.

Jennifer: Good morning and happy birthday, already 15.  You’re growing up too fast.  (She hugs Kairi who still is not fully awake).

Kairi: (Smiles brightly as she remembers and is shaking her sleepiness away).  … Oh, right I forgot!  Yesterday was so much fun though.

Hiki: (She runs over to Kairi and gives her a hug).  Happy birthday Kairi!

Kairi: (Has a big smile hugging everyone back as they hug her).  Thank you, I bet today will be just as fun!

Jennifer: Well, we will do our best, we just need to get back.  (She looks into the room seeing Amber is still asleep).  Amber it is time to wake up, we need to get back.

Kairi: I cannot wait!  (She is even more excited as she rushes to collect everything she needs and change clothing in the bathroom).

Amber: (She gets up slowly with her hair running down her face and all over the place with her shirt buttons a bit undone).  Wh-what is going on again?

Jennifer: (Walks over with a smile).  It is morning now; we need to get back to the mansion to get ready for Kairi’s party.

Amber: Oh yes….  (She wakes up a bit after a few stretches).  Alright I will get ready in a little bit.

Jennifer: Thank you, you can use the bathroom after Kairi’s done.

Kura: (Looks at Hiki).  Could you help me with packing then while everyone is getting ready?

Hiki: (She looks at Kura with a smile).  Yes, I can, let’s go!

 

Everyone is packing up quickly to go back to the mansion Shizen, Rowen, Orion and Cordelia soon joining them.  They go downstairs to check out and see if the carriage is ready as the greet each other as well.

Cordelia: (Looks at both Shizen and Rowen both seeming in a good mood as Rowen escorts her).  Good morning, Rowen, I hope your night went well.  It had seemed like it at least.  (She has a small laugh and smile).

Shizen: (Slyly smiles at the comment as she walks behind Rowen with Orion beside her).

Orion: Well from that look I guess it was a very goodnight for the both of you.  (He smirks a bit).

Rowen: (He hits Orion’s head).  Why don’t you be quiet Orion.

Cordelia: (Laughs more with a big smile).

Shizen: I could ask if both your nights were good as well.  (She looks at Cordelia then to Orion with smirk remembering how they were holding hands).

Cordelia: (Has a faint blush but a smile stays though hers has a hint of a sad feeling she pushes away then for a second looks back at Orion the smile becoming less sad as she does this, Rowen seeing her expression since he is beside her).

Shizen: (Looks at Cordelia and then Orion with her eyebrows raised in interest).

Orion: (He coughs for a second to break the silence as he sees the rest of the group ready themselves in the carriage).  Come on, come on it’s time to go.

Cordelia: (Nods in agreement as they head towards the carriage right outside).

Shizen: (Says to Orion quietly before catching up with everyone as well).  I will be asking you about that later on Orion.

Orion: I’m not sure what you’re talking about Shizen.

Shizen: (Punches Orion in the shoulder and laughs).  Come on, I know you too well for that.  (She has a big grin as they step into the carriage with everyone as they start their travel back to the mansion hopefully before guests arrive).

 

Everyone sits and enjoys the quite ride back with Rowen and Chazz driving the carriage and Jennifer and Kairi sitting next to each other talking with everyone else about yesterday’s events which passes time much quickly.  It seems that the ride does not take as long as when going to the festival as they reach the big town near the mansion picking up a few things since it is the middle of the morning by then.  Cordelia even points out the shop area of the merchants she was talking about trade with but do not go further since they do not have a lot of time until tomorrow.  When they make it to the mansion everyone steps out and stretches one by one being more awake than before as maids and servants great and take bags from the carriage there being many shopping bags thanks to Kairi.  Everyone starts to settle in, Chazz and Rowen helping with the bags as Jennifer starts to think of decorating for the party looking at Kairi not wanting her to see everything being set up pulling Hiki and Tori to the side Kura and Yami standing next to Kairi as she has a big smile.

Jennifer: (Looks over to Kairi making sure she cannot hear them before speaking quietly).  There is still a lot that needs to be done but I need a really big favor from both of you.

Hiki: (She and Tori look at each other in confusion but then back at Jennifer).  Yes, what is it?

Jennifer: I need a small group to distract Kairi while everything is being set up until the party is close to starting.  I know Kura and Yami could probably help as well but no matter what do everything you can to see that she stays away from the main areas of the mansion please.

Hiki: (She looks at Jennifer with a blank stare but then smiles as she grabs Tori’s arm).  Leave it to us!

Jennifer: (Lets out a sigh of relief).  Thank you, it helps more than you know.  I can send a signal or something similar when it is about time for the party maybe a rabbit or wolf but until then thank you.  (Before she starts to help and request for decorations from a maid, she gives Tori a warning stare).

Tori: (He smiles with a slight sweat going down his face as he and Hiki head over to Kairi).

Kairi: (Looks through all her shopping bags having put the pendant she bought on as Kura helps her with Yami looking uninterested with what is going on).

Hiki: (She walks by Kairi and starts to look through the bags and finds the pendent rather quickly).  Hey Kairi, is this it?

Kairi: (Sees the memory pendant Hiki finds and gets a big smile taking it from Hiki).  Thank you, I was worried I lost it.

Hiki: (She smirks as she grabs Kairi’s hand).  Hey, come on, let’s go in the back yard to train for a little bit since Tori said he would help with your dark powers again!

Kairi: (Seems surprised but still has a big smile looking at Tori Kura and Yami look a little confused to what is going on).  Really?  Ooh I was really looking forward to training too.  Even if it is on my birthday, it still can be fun!

Shizen: (Laughs a little overhearing the whole situation).

Tori: Yeah… It won’t take long just basic stuff, so you don’t get too tired.  Can’t have you fall asleep to early today.

Shizen: Maybe you should do a little training with flying as well today, Tori.  Your new friend could help with that.  (As she says this, she motions up at the falcon that seems to have been following the carriages flying high up in the sky).

Kairi: (Looks up and seems to be in wonder).  Wow it is flying really high.

Tori: (He smiles and laughs).  Yeah, it wouldn’t hurt to train a bit on that.  (In an instant the falcon swoops down diving at an incredible speed for a 200 miles per hour then before crashing pulls up and glides low around the group).

Kairi: (Still looks in wonder and awe).  Wow that looks scary!

Yami: (Laughs).  Man, good luck with that that, pretty much falling.

Tori: Whoa there, I think that might be too advanced for now, but I’ll fly around with you later ok?  (The falcon lands on carriage picking at its feathers).

Shizen: (Laughs while shaking her head).  Well perhaps you have the instincts already to figure it out.

Yami: Looked pretty cool though, like diving at your enemies.

Kura: (Sighs).  Everything is fighting with you.

Kairi: (Giggles still with a big smile in agreement).

Amber: (She comes back from inside the house after helping Chazz out with some things).  Oh, is the falcon here too?

Tori: Yeah, it seems to have followed us.

Shizen: Yes, she seems quite attached to Tori and she was just demonstrating how to dive for us.

Kairi: (Looks at the main doors to the mansion).  Is there anything I can help with, I do not mind?

Amber: No everything is fine Kairi, I promise.  Do not worry about a thing.

Kairi: Oh, alright let me know if I can help though, ooh can we go in the yard now then ooh and after that I need to pick out a dress too.  I can give everyone their dress up things I got at the festival!

Kura: (Smiles knowing how Kairi can be with presents).  I look forward to it.

Yami: (Crosses arms stubbornly).  Not wearing a suit.

Kura: (Sighs shaking her head).  I would say to wear the jacket Kairi had gotten you at least but it’s too big, please be nice at least though.

Yami: (Gives a questioning look but also a bit grumpy as well).  What are you talking about, suits just look weird and formal, not wearing something like that.  Jacket kind of cool though.

Kairi: (Gets a big smile hugging Yami).  Yay I am happy you like it is, I wish found one smaller!

Yami: Hey no hugs!

Hiki: (She pats Yami on the head).  Listen to Kairi at least for today alright?

Yami: (Crosses his arms still looking grumpy as Kairi hugs him).  Fine but just one.

Kura: (Laughs a little patting Yami on the head as well).  If you let Kairi hug you then I’m sure Tori can agree to spar with you later.

Tori: Yeah, we can later.

Yami: (Grins).  Fine I’ll take that deal and I’m winning this time.

Kairi: (Giggles again as she has a bright smile).  Alright let’s go now then and maybe sis will let me help later.

Kura: It is your day Kairi, whatever you wish to do.

Hiki: Yeah, let’s go, come on Tori don’t fall behind now.  (She smiles as well as Kairi seems to take Tori’s hand with a small blush and heads to the backyard to train for a short time).

Kura and Yami: (Follows behind them as everyone waves to Amber who goes back inside).

Kairi: (Skips happily towards the backyard area holding Tori’s hand as well with a big smile).

Hiki: (As she is walking with them, she hears a faint voice sounding like Hamako’s though not heard well since she is not as focused on it.  When first hearing it she realizes she is still wearing necklace with a gem shape filled with water.  She is not as focused on the group as she hears Hamako call out again and this time, she hears her).  Oh, Hamako you probably want to get let out… How do I do that again?  (As she holds the gem in her fingers trying to figure it out).

Hamako: (Floats up to the clasp on top of the chain the hollow gem is connected to seeming to have trouble doing it herself it being stuck as she seems frustrated).  Hika help… Stuck.

Hiki: (She sees the problem).  Well, I hope she won’t get mad at me.  (She takes her sword and breaks the clap off the gem).

Hamako: (Gets a big smile pushing the gem open and climbing out though not becoming her normal size staying a little bigger than the gem since she absorbed all the water, she was swimming in as she looks around curiously then up at Hiki).  Wa-ter?

Hiki: (She smiles picking up Hamako as she says to everyone else).  I’m going to take her to the nearby lake alright.  I’ll be back in a bit.

Kairi: (Smiles and nods).  Alright we will be around here I think oh and hi Hamako maybe she can train with us to.

Hamako: (Says as she climbs up to Hiki’s shoulder as she walks away).  Fun!

 

Hiki goes quickly to the lake with Hamako.  The people inside the mansion rush around quickly to get everything ready knowing some guests are coming early and staying in guests’ rooms as well as setting up decorations and plenty of food.  Everyone gets ready for the party inside the few people distracting Kairi by training with her are outside still besides Yami who went to absorb darkness in the woods for a little bit.  Hiki and Hamako now are back with them and Hamako her normal size.  Kairi is practicing but she seems to have a little difficulty with going into a shadow form on her own still only able to go half into the form at most seeming to have trouble on her own even with Kura showing her and trying to help her with darkness.

Tori: (He does his best to help out Kairi as well seeming that she is getting it at a slower pace than he expected).

Kairi: (Seems a little upset that she is not getting this as quickly as she wants to).

Kura: (Pats Kairi’s head reassuringly).  It’s alright Kairi, it just takes time and practice.  I know Yami struggled with this as well, but it helps if you take darkness energy from around you, I have learned.

Kairi: (Pouts at little).  But I do not want to take it from Tori and make him tired… Plus it’s been harder to work with darkness for some reason.  (She makes a cute pouty face looking at Tori).

Kura: Try to focus on the shadows surrounding us and not Tori then.

Tori: Yeah, it’s possible to avoid that, just Yami can’t control it since his has such a wild state.

Kairi: I know he tries to at least but he also goes into the woods like now, so he does not hurt anyone.  I know he cares a lot, he just does not like showing it as much or just acts tough.

Kura: (Looks down with a small smile patting Kairi’s head as a few memories go through her head for a moment).  That is true… A lot like his brother in a way.  (She smiles more with a few good memories looking into the woods where Yami had went).  He acts a lot like Kuro in many ways.

Tori: Yeah… It’s kind of weird… Sometimes it’s like I’m talking to him… It’s just a weird feeling of nostalgia.

Kura: (Laughs a little while looking down).  Yes… It is like that sometimes… He looked up to him a lot so that’s probably why I have too as well… It’s almost like he’s still here in a way… It’s hard to explain.

Kairi: (Smiles up at Kura and Tori beside Hiki and Hamako remembering stories she was told about Kura and Yami’s big brother).

Hiki: (She smiles as she hears the discussion knowing how much Kuro also meant to Tori and how it related to his adopted family).

Kura: (Sighs and smiles turning her attention back to everyone and Kairi catches her eye being in her shadow form fully looking like a dark silhouette of herself with her hair almost fully black Kura being first one to notice since everyone’s attention was on her and Tori).  … Kairi?

Kairi: (Seems confused by why Kura called on her not seeming to realize she’s in her shadow form).  Yes Kura?

Tori: (He and Hiki both look at Kairi in shock).  K-Kairi look at your body for a second….

Kairi: (Looks even more confused but then looks down at herself seeing she looks like a shadow getting an amazed look waving her hands in front of her seeing what streams of darkness that looks like dark smoke).  Whoa…. I, did it?

Kura: (Looks just as surprised still).  … I suppose there was a little too much focus on one ability for the ability to work unlike how barriers work… It just needed a different way to be done.

Hamako: (Seems confused to what is going on but also distracted by the things around her).

Tori: I guess so in a way….

Kairi: (Gets a big smile jumping and giggling a bit excitedly being proud of herself.  The only odd thing she can notice is that the connection to darkness is stronger and weaker like in waves with the connection to it).  Yay I did it!

Tori: … Though the process was something else.

Kairi: But still, it looks really weird but cool as well.  Thank you for helping me!  (She hugs Kura as a thank you).

Kura: Well, I am always willing to help though you did this part yourself, good job Kairi.

Kairi: (Still has a big bright smile skipping over to Tori still in her shadow form).  And thank you too Tori.  (In that moment she goes on her toes to give Tori a kiss on the cheek).

Tori: (In a matter of seconds a blush comes across his face as he pulls back from Kairi and rubs his cheek).

Hiki: (She is surprised that Kairi would suddenly do this, yet she is very proud).

Kura: (Looks surprised as well but smiles along with Hiki).

Kairi: (Still has a big smile as she giggles with a small blush).

 

The group outside had trained as a few moments ago their first guest had arrived by carriage to see Kairi since he had been invited to come a bit early and with permission to use a guest room for the night.  As the carriage rolls up to the main entrance Cordelia with Rowen by her side are there to great Kairi’s guest.  The carriage stops in front of them they smile politely waiting for their guests to come out.  The door opens with a maid with light blond hair and blue eyes comes out looking about in her mid-twenties with a light blue ribbon tying her hair back as she helps a boy with brown medium length hair and deep blue eyes out of the carriage being about a little taller than Kairi and looking to be about 14.

Cordelia: (Curtsies politely to the guests remembering Jennifer’s description of him and seeming to look like the guests that are expected and smiles as they are getting out of the carriage).  Ahh hello, you must be Sir Maru am I correct?

Maru: Umm hello Mises Cordeila, thank you for accepting my selfish request… Thank you again.

Cordelia: (Smiles politly and nods).  It was not selfish at all, you were given the request personally, so do not feel unwelcomed.  We are glad to have you as our guest.

Maru: Well… Regardless I appreciate it… Is Kairi around… I have not seen her in a while.

Cordelia: Of course, she is in the back yard area.  I could escort you there if you would like me to.  We just needed her away from the main areas of the mansion while the party is being set up.

Luna: No, it will be alright, we don’t wish to bother you further.  We know the way ourselves, come now Maru.  (Maru staggers for a moment before following her).

Cordelia: (Curtsies again).  Very well, I will have your luggage brought to your room.  Let a servant know when you want to be escorted to your rooms.

Maru: Yes… I will see you in a little bit.

Cordelia: (Smiles and nods heading back inside with Rowen as Maru and Luna walk around the outside of the house).  Seems like a nice young boy, though quite shy.

Maru: (As he is following Luna to the backyard, he gets a sudden feeling of excitement and nervous and it is easy to see).

Luna: (She sighs).  Just calm down now, I’m sure everything will be fine.

 

Both walk around to the backyard as they are turning around the corner, they see a group of familiar people being Hiki, Tori, Kura as well as a unfamiliar little girl that looks as if she is made of water and what looks like a shadow of Kairi which hops a bit excitedly.  Maru looks confused and yet excited wondering where Kairi is exactly but still is getting around the corner of the building when suddenly Maru sees the kiss on the cheek from Kairi to Tori.  He stops in his tracks not even letting them see him or Luna.  He pauses and begins to walk back to the entrance with silence and in a hurry with a blank expression as though his heart just had taken a nosedive.

Kura: (As she smiles seeing Kairi happy something catches her eye for a moment turning to the mansion thinking she had seen someone over there but not when more aware seeming puzzled thinking for sure she had seen someone).

Hiki: (She smiles too as she looks at Kura but then wonders what is on her mind or what she had seen).

Kura: (Shakes off the feeling for the moment seeing Yami come back from the woods looking a lot better than he had before).

Yami: (Looks around seeing everyone still there noticing Kairi in a shadow form but not much else changed).  Hey, I miss anything?

Kairi: (Says excitedly).  I did the shadow thingy by myself!

Yami: (Gives his normal expression as he scratches his head).  Uhh cool.

Hiki: Come on she has been trying to do this forever now.

Yami: Hey I said cool.

Kura: (Sighs shaking her head).  I suppose that’s a lot for him.

Kairi: (Gives a big smile to Yami).  It is alright, I can just give him a big hug.  (She starts to skip towards Yami to hug him).

Yami: (Backs up a bit).  H-hey you don’t need to do that!

Kairi: (Giggles but as she gets closer to Yami, but a shadow is in-between them and with a high-pitched surprised yell she falls into it).  Eek!

Kura: (Looks surprised as she tries to rush over and help).  Kairi!

Yami: (Turns his arm into a shadow in order to try and reach into the shadow and catch Kairi in that moment on instinct).

Tori: (In a instant her is already under her and catches her in a princess hold).

Kairi: (Shakes her head a little looking up from where she fell inside the shadow the opening looking like patches of light with swirls of darkness everywhere else then looks at Tori both of them being like shadows though if not there would be a small blush).  Thank you, Tori… Wow it is weird being in a shadow.

Tori: It has its own it perks sometimes but got to be careful Kairi.  It would be bad if you hurt yourself.

Kairi: A-alright.  (She still seems curious about where they are then looks at Tori seeming to get a little lost in thought as she does so while smiling sweetly at him).

Tori: (He notices the staring from Kairi but looks away trying not to get embarrassed by her cuteness)

Hiki: (She smiles down barely able to make them out in the shadow).  Let’s keep trying to train alright.

Kairi: (Looks up at Hiki and smiles and nods).  Alright!

Yami: Here I’ll pull them ou- oh shit!  (As he says that in surprise as he falls front first into the shadow since he was leaning towards it and lands on top of Tori ending up sitting on his back once landed rubbing his head as Kairi ended up sitting in front of them).

Tori: Oww watch it you idiot….

Yami: (Gives an annoyed look with his arms crossed stubbornly).  Hey, you could of moved out of the way!

Kairi: (Gets a big smile and starts giggling).

Tori: Yeah, yeah just get off me!

Yami: Hey don’t tell me what to do!

Kura: (Looks down seeing them both and Hiki hearing them and just face palms shaking her head with a sigh).  They’re both idiots really at this point.

Hiki: (She laughs knowing Kura is right).

Yami: (gets a big grin as he stays sitting where he fell crossing his arms) hey since I knocked you down this means I won this fight right?

Kairi: (Gives a confused look).  But you fell on Tori.

Yami: Still counts!

Tori: No, it doesn’t!  Now get off me now!  (As he sits up and pushes Yami off him).

Yami: (Sits up quickly yelling back at Tori).  Hey not cool and it does count too.  Here I I’ll prove it now!  I’ll win this time to bring it.  (He gets into a fighting stance as he challenges Tori).

Kura: (Shakes her head).  They could at least come out of the shadow before fighting… Or at least help Kairi out first.

Tori: Yeah, yeah, we can later but right now it isn’t time.  (As he gets out of the shadow form).

Yami: Hey get back here, don’t run from a fight!

Kairi: (Looks up at the opening in the shadow wondering how she gets out).  Yami, do you know how to get out of this shadowy place?

Yami: (Turns to Kairi scratching his head).  Umm yeah just sort of hop out I guess, not that hard.

Kairi: Jump?  (Looks up at the opening it seeming to far for her to jump).

Kura: (Reaches her hand into the shadow to help pull Kairi out as Yami hops out of it casually).  There, you will get more used to it as you practice but you did really well.

Kairi: (Smiles brightly as the shadow form fades from her).  Thank you!

Hiki: Huh does it actually get easier.  (She looks with her head to the side not knowing what it is like).

Tori: Yes, after some time it becomes like a second nature.  It’s just that in the beginning it takes some getting used to.

Kura: (Thinks for a moment then smiles at Hiki).  I think light spirits travel through light areas in a similar way, correct?  If so, it is similar to that only very dark places in our version really.

Hiki: Yes, in a way but it’s a lot less complicated since we just travel through gates not a whole zone.

Kairi: (Looks curious and a little confused).  Wow sounds cool.  For some reason it feels like darkness keeps getting harder to use but I will try my best to get used to it.

Kura: (Laughs patting Kairi’s head though this comment slightly worries her).  Well let’s do a little more training still….  (She looks over seeing Yami challenging Tori yet again and sighs shaking her head but with a small smile).  Or those two can start fighting again.

Hiki: Yes, let’s get going with the training session.

Kairi: (Gets a big smile and nods happily).  Alright!

 

The group outside begin to train again and the servants and the rest of the household rush around the area putting up pink decorations and cooking plenty of food for all the guests to arrive soon.  It becomes close to the time when Kairi should be getting ready to head back inside and get cleaned up for the party as her sister rushes around a bit to make sure everything is ready on time seeming to over stress herself with every detail.

Jennifer: (Has a long list of things she a signed servants to do and some herself as she rushes around in the halls bumping into Chazz as he seems to rush around as well getting his attention for a moment).  Chazz are all of the decorations set up?  It is near time for people to start arriving and Kairi needs to get ready as well.  I need to send a signal to Hiki oh and the cooks I hope the appetizers are ready soon.  We need them soon after all people are arriving oh and drinks too oh and the cake order from Alfred and Loretta is here as well, correct?  (She continues going down the list trying to find out what is not done yet as she seems very rushed and flustered at the moment).

Chazz: (He smiles as he pets her head).  Yes, everything is done or getting set up… Just calm down for a moment Jennifer… I will get everything ready.  How about you go get ready yourself.

Jennifer: (Blushes from Chazz petting her head making her pause then laughs a little).  I guess I am a little all over the place.  It is a big day for Kairi after all… I just want it to be perfect for her is all.

Chazz: I know you do but nothing will come of it when you are about to pass out so let me take of it alright?  Go get ready and lay done down alright?

Jennifer: (Takes a breath and smiles).  I almost forgot I need to get ready as well… Everything will be alright while I am gone right, and I will signal Hiki to bring Kairi to her room to get ready as well.  It should be a little less than an hour we should be ready I believe.

Chazz: (He takes her hand).  Yes, everything will be fine, go ahead and do that.  I will go make sure everything is ready… Dear….  (He has a slight blush).

Jennifer: (Gets a very heavy blush not sure of how to respond).  I… Umm… Will do that then… I umm… Thank you.  (Her blush deepens as she looks at Chazz, her mind going a mile a minute from the situation).

 

Chazz had gotten Jennifer to calm down she can get ready.  A few moments later part of the pack of wolves come out of the woods including the mother and puppies and a few of the younger wolves as wellbeing about 1 and 2 in age as they catch everyone’s attention.  Kairi gets a big smile seeing the wolves and the three pups looking a few weeks older and seeming more used to using their legs as they run and play.  The black one with the white mark on its head seems to yawn though and go over to Tori as the light grey wolf pup goes to Hiki looking up at her as the medium grey wolf pup attacks Yami playfully seeming to run around even more energetic than last time.
Kairi: (Kneels down to pet the light grey wolf pup).  Yay the puppies are here!

Yami: (Tries to get the medium grey wolf pup to stop pulling his shirt like a tug of war toy).  Hey, quit it, you’re going to rip it!
Kura: (Laughs as she watches Yami).

Tori: (As always, he lays down with the pup and smiles as he pets him).

Hiki: (She plays around with the pup that is by her like she always does).

Kairi: (Giggles as she plays with the wolf pup with Hiki as the mother comes over to them as well).

Yami: (Still is struggling with the puppy he has seeming to get frustrated).

Kura: (Laughs).  Come on Yami, are you going to let a little puppy defeat you like that?

Yami: Shut it!  (As he is pounced on and then the wolf pup runs immediately seeming to run all over the place then to Tori biting and chewing his shoes pouncing at it as he lays there with the black furred puppy who rests with him).

Yami: (The puppy starts to run around again then pounces him again).  Hey what’s wrong with this one, stop!

Kura: (Laughs more).  Well, he’s quite a spaz.

Hiki: (As all the wolf pups play the mother of the pups looks at her with a slight green glow in its eyes.  Upon notching the eyes Hiki realizes what is going on and shakes her head).  alright I think it’s time to head back in for now, especially since there’s something we must do today.

Kairi: (Continues petting the wolf pup with a small pout).  Aww but can we take the puppies with at least.  Their so cute!

Kura: Perhaps later they can say hi again you may have to ask your sister.

Kairi: Alright I can do that.

Hiki: Umm I’m not sure on how that will all work out, but we can definitely try to say the least.  (As she has a nervous laugh).

Kairi: Alright I can ask sis if they can come back again then.  (She pets the wolf pup one last time before she stands up as the wolf mother begins to gather her pups so they can go back to their home where the rest of the pack waits.  All three pups seem more obedient to their mother then before, even the wilder of the pups as Kairi waves goodbye to them as well as Kura).

Yami: (Seems annoyed still as he tries to fix his shirt seeing a rip in it where the wolf pup tugged on it).

Tori: (He laughs a bit as he waves goodbye to his napping friend as he gets up and stretches out since he needed to do that anyway)

Yami: (Still seems grumpy about the rip as he walks closer to everyone).

Kairi: It is alright Yami, maybe we can find some clothes for you from the festival.  Oh Hiki, Kura I think there’s a lot clothes for you as well and a suit for you too Tori.

Yami: (Crosses his arms grumpily).  Not wearing a suit.

Hamako: (Having watched everyone with interest the whole time with a look of wonder she goes side by side to Yami and imitates him like a reflection of him made of water).

Yami: Hey don’t copy me!

Hamako: (Goes back to her normal look becoming upset from being yelled at looking like she’s about to cry).  Yam… Mad.

Yami: Hey not like that, don’t get upset over it!

Kura: (Sighs shaking her head as she hits him over the head).  Idiot stop yelling at her.
Yami: Hey not cool, I’m not yelling!

Tori: (He hits Yami’s head as well).  You idiot she didn’t do anything wrong

Yami: Hey quit it!  (He crosses arms grumpily as he pouts).  Just didn’t want to be copied, didn’t mean to.

Hamako: (Goes over to Hiki still looking upset and about to cry as Kairi smiles trying to cheer her up).

Kairi: It is alright Hamako, Yami did not mean it.

Hiki: (She pets her head as she holds her close).  It is alright Hamako, I got you now.

Hamako: (Snuggles into Hiki’s hold hiding her face since she’s upset although Hiki’s clothes become soaked from where Hamako is).

Kura: (Looks over at Hamako seeing she is upset and pulls Yami’s ear saying in a stricter tone).  Yami go apologize now.

Yami: (Tries to get Kura to let go).  Hey, let go, not like I meant too!

Tori: Well, you didn’t do so well as to not show us that now didn’t you?

Yami: (Grumbles and crosses his arms grumpily looking away).  Fine… I’ll say sorry I guess… Not like I meant to though.

Kura: (Smiles patting Yami’s head).  Good now go on, I know it’s difficult for you.

Yami: Fine.  (He goes over to Hamako who still clings to Hiki).

Hamako: (Peaks up at Yami as she clings to Hiki).

Yami: (Pretends to look away but not fully as everyone can tell he is embarrassed because of his ego as his hands are in his pockets).  Look… I’m sorry… Alright we good now?

Hamako: (Still peaks at Yami as she holds onto Hiki but less shyly).  Yam….

Yami: Yeah, and it’s Yami but I guess saying that is ok too.

Hamako: (Tilts her head to the side).  … Yam-i?

Yami: (Scratches his head).  Yeah, like that I guess.

Tori: (He smiles as he crosses his arms).  See now is that so hard?

Hiki: (She smiles as well petting Hamako and knowing she is soaked but is dealing with it).

Yami: (Looks back at Tori).  Shut it.

Kura: (Laughs a little).  Well shall we get going now then?

Kairi: (Nods and smiles happily).  Alright and we can wear the dresses we got from the festival.  Oh, Hiki I think your dresses are in sis room maybe.

Hiki: Alright!  (She says happily as she also looks down at the huge water mess on her clothes).  Oh well I needed to change anyway.

Kairi: Alright ooh I wonder what dress I should pick.

Kura: I can help you Kairi.

Kairi: Ooh yay let’s go.  (She runs in the direction her room is at as Kura laughs then goes to catch up both leaving a shadow trail).

Yami: Hey what’s the rush, wait up!  (He starts to run after them).

Hamako: (Watches them go then looks up at Hiki with Tori beside her).  Go see mama now?

Hiki: Yeah, we go see her now since I think she is done getting ready.

Tori: (He gets a chill down his spine as he looks at Kairi run off).  Yeah… It’s going to be an interesting day today.

Hamako: It ok… I know where.  (She nods looking towards the mansion seeming to know where Cordelia is as she skips towards it leaving Hiki and Tori but as she is going, she splashes both Hiki and Tori on accident).

Hiki: (She and Tori sigh and scratch their heads).  I guess we both have to change now, don’t we?

Tori: Yeah… I guess so.  Oh well everything works out.

Hiki: (She starts to walk forward).  Yes… I know it will… We have to make sure of it.  (As she looks down and heads towards the mansion first).

Tori: … Always knowing what I’m thinking now aren’t you Hiki… Yeah, we have to.

 

Everyone is getting ready for the party and getting dressed into fancy dresses Kairi is the first ready with Kura and Yami with her as well.  She is wearing a pink dress she had bought at the festival.  It has a pink frilly corset with white lace ties and a layered skirt with different shades of pink.  There is a big black ribbon tied in a bow in the back around her waist and her hair fully down in curls.  Kura wears her maid outfit for the party as she accompanies Kairi as her maid with Yami refusing to wear a suit and tie wearing a casual black shirt with a red border as he casually has his hands in his pockets.  Kairi is wondering around a little waiting for everyone else and she overhears one of the guests staying over had arrived a little before getting a big smile as she goes over to where the guest rooms are so she can see Maru skipping through the halls a bit as she does this.

Kairi: (With Kura and Yami behind her she skips to the rooms looking for which room is Maru and Luna’s being excited to see her friend.  She finds the door she thinks is his making sure it is and then knocking).  Hello Maru?  Are you there?

Luna: (She is the one who answers the door).  Yes, miss Kairi?

Kairi: (Has a big bright smile looking up at Luna).  Hi Luna, I found out Maru made it here, so I wanted to say hi!

Kura: (Nods as a silent greeting but still is a bit on guard from their last visit).

Yami: (Leans against the wall by the door casually playing with one of his knives).

Luna: (She seems worried but hides it a bit but only a brief moment Kairi sees it).  Oh yes… Master Maru is quite… Tired at the moment… So, if you wouldn’t mind I would like him to rest.  (She looks back, but Kairi can’t see to who).

Kairi: (Gets a concerned look).  Is something wrong?  Is he getting a cold?  (She gets a worried expression not knowing what is wrong trying to look around to see what Luna looks back too).

Kura: (Starts to think back for a moment something on her mind that puzzled her before though she is not sure what it is fully quite yet).

Luna: No nothing like that, just that he is tired from the trip… So, if you would excuse me….  (She closes the door).

Kairi: (Has an upset look).  … I hope he is alright… Does he not want to see me…? Did I do something wrong….  (She looks even more upset).

Kura: (Tries to comfort Kairi).  I’m sure it’s fine, he probably just needs some rest.  Let’s go back to the room and wait for your sister.  We can see him later on.

Yami: (Looks at the door getting a feeling that something is up but tries to act like he’s not noticing as he continues playing with his knife).

 

Kairi walks back to her room feeling upset wondering what is wrong or if she had done something wrong as Kura and Yami try to cheer her up.  As this happens Jennifer is in her own room with Hiki.  Jennifer has a ball gown on with a green corset with a light green silk border and a frilly skirt with shades of green.  She has a brown bow at her waist as well as dark green long silk gloves and her brown hair half down with the back put into a little fancy braid seen on both sides.  As Hiki had to change she as well changes into her normal maids’ outfit with her hair half down and half up in the back as they wait for Chazz so they may go to the party before Kairi arrives knowing that most of the guests are arriving by now.

Jennifer: (Sits on her bed making sure her hair does not become undone to easily looking over to Hiki).  I hope the party goes well tonight; I think Kairi will enjoy it hopefully at least.

Hiki: (She sits up straightening her skirt).  Yes, I’m pretty sure it will from how hard you and everyone else were working to make sure it will be a good time.

Jennifer: I hope so, we should make it there before Kairi though just in case.

Hiki: Alright, after you than madam.

Jennifer: (Smiles at Hiki).  Yes, we shall, I do not think Chazz will mind if we meet him there.  (She opens the door so they can go out of the room).

Hiki: Yes madam… Mister Chazz must be quite busy.  It would be much easier for him if we went there ourselves.  (Instantly starts acting how Chazz taught her to act like when in her maid outfit)

Jennifer: (Laughs a little).  We are not at the party yet Hiki, but I suppose it’s good to get used to that again perhaps.  (She smiles as she starts to walk down the hallway with her).

Hiki: I know…But it doesn’t hurt to try and get back into the swing of things with it.

Jennifer: (Laughs as she walks beside Hiki smiling at her).  Yes, but it is only for tonight and then you may go back to acting like yourself.

 

Jennifer smiles looking forward again but oddly sees a girl in the hall in an area not for guest.  The girl is not faced towards them, but she looks about 12 or 13 in age.  They can see she has golden blonde straight hair that goes to about shoulder length and is very pale skinned.  The dress is a long sleeve formal dress in different shades of blue.  The dress has light blue shades on top and goes into darker shades of blue as it reaches the bow around her waist being a medium tone of blue and a darker blue on the long skirt.  She has white flower on the side of her hair as well as a few white borders in the dress as well as she seems lost.

Jennifer: (Looks curiously at the girl a little way ahead of them).  That is odd, I do not think guests are allowed this far from the main party area.

Hiki: (She walks towards the girl).  Excuse me Mis… You shouldn’t be this far away from the area… Are you a guest staying the night?

??????: (Turns around after hearing Hiki being taken off guard as she has her hands up and to her mouth very timidly and shyly seeming startled.  Her eyes are a odd pail light blue with no pupil in them, only the light blue color).  H-hello… I-I am sorry… I got a little lost… I am sorry.  (She looks down).

Jennifer: (Smiles at the young girl).  It is fine, the party area is not far, just down this hall.

?????: (Seems a little confused but nods still looking down as she holds her hands in front of her nervously).  A-alright… Thank you….

Hiki: (She says with some concern).  Would you like us to escort you there?

??????: O-oh…  You do not have to… I do not want to cause to much trouble for you… I am sorry.

Hiki: No, no it isn’t a bother at all.

?????: (Nods but keeps looking down a little bit not moving towards Hiki).

Jennifer: (Looks at the girl then to Hiki giving a concerned and confused look).

Hiki: (tries to look at the girl’s face).  Are you alright Mis?  Is everything alright?

?????: (Looks up more but not directly at Hiki for a moment the back down shyly).  U-umm yes mam… Thank you….

Hiki: (Gives a confused look).  Alright then I’m going to take your hand and then we will walk to the ballroom alright?

?????: A-alright… Thank you.  (She steps forward towards Hiki a little and holds out her hand with a little hesitation).

Jennifer: (Smiles at the girl politely).  It is alright, we will help you any way possible so do not worry.  You are a guest after all.

Hiki: (As she is walking with Jennifer, she leads the girl to the party area where she believes most of the decorations will be up by now since she did give them a good amount of time).

Jennifer: (Looks around and smiles at the well-done job decorating with pink fabric covering area hung from the ceiling and with light pink silk covering the tables with flowers in vases and the chairs and furniture made of brown wood or granite.  She nods her head approvingly seeing the area is getting busy and then remembers the girl beside Hiki smiling at her).  Do you need anything else from us?  I hope you enjoy the party.

?????: (Clings to Hiki’s arm are a little oddly).  N-no… I just need to find a table… T-thank you.

Jennifer: That is not a problem, Hiki could you help her find a table then?

?????: (Says timidly).  N-no you do not need to… You already have helped me a lot….

Hiki: No, no I insist that I help, please let me do so.

?????: (Pauses for a moment and then nods looking forward and down a little the whole time).  I-if it is not too much trouble….

Hiki: It will never be one Mis… I’m sorry I didn’t seem to catch your name.

?????: I-it is Hailey….  (She clings to Hiki’s arm still with a small shy smile but still looks forward).

Hiki: Alright madam Hailey, I shall take you to table then as you request.

Hailey: (Nods and is led by Hiki looking in her direction for a moment though still looking down a little).  C-can I sit at a table by the wall… If no one is around there….  (The tables by the wall in front of them seem to have very few people around them the other guests by the appetizers and dance area).

Hiki: Well of course let me just walk you over there then.  (As she finds an empty table).

Hailey: T-thank you.  (She gives Hiki a polite smile looking upward at her for the first time mostly looking downward though still not directly at Hiki).

Hiki: (As they arrive at the table, Hiki stops just before reaching the chair).  Well, here we are.

Hailey: Oh, umm t-thank you.  (She puts her hand in front of her with an expression like she trying to find something seeming to have trouble then looks towards Hiki with a little shy and embarrassed expression).  I umm… C-could you pull the chair out for me please.

Hiki: (She wonders why she is asking that when the chair is right in front of her).  Alright.  (As she is pulling the chair forward Hiki looks at Hailey’s face and sees her eyes almost immediately and realizes that Hailey is blind and immediately stops in her tracks for a second shocked she did not realize this sooner from how she was acting).  Ohh umm alright let me just pull out the chair now.  (She pulls the chair out forward closer to Hailey)

Hailey: (Smiles and nods politely as she reaches for the chair and finds it quickly so she can take a seat).  I umm… T-thank you Miss….  (She looks up in Hiki’s direction with a shy and polite expression).  C-can I have your name too… If it is not too much to ask.

Hiki: (She smiles as she pets her head).  Its Hikari but most people just call me Hiki.  Nice to finally meet you Hailey

Hailey: (Smiles and nods looking upwards towards Hiki from hearing her voice).  T-thank you Hiki… It is nice to meet you too.

 

Hiki helps their guest as Jennifer had gone to look for Chazz taking a few moments because of the many guests but then sees him next to Amber and smiles walking up to them.

Jennifer: Hello Amber and Chazz thank you for taking over, I think everything is on schedule… I guess there was no real reason to panic then.  (She laughs a little sheepishly).

Chazz: I told you there was nothing to worry about.

Amber: (She smiles as she holds her arm up in a flex).  I did most of the work and I got it all taken care of!

Chazz: No, no you did not.  (He sighs with a laugh from both him and Amber).

Jennifer: (Laughs along with them).  Well, you still helped even though you are our guest, so we appreciate it.  I just hope Kairi enjoys her party.

Amber: I am sure she will enjoy it!  Especially since she knows how much she means to everyone!

Jennifer: (Smiles).  I think so too but I have not seen Shizen around.  I guess she will come back.  (Something catches her attention seeing her sister come out of a hallway and into the party area with an amazed look as Kura and Yami are beside her and Tori escorting her, Jennifer getting a big smile).  Oh, she is here!

Hiki: (She does her best to hold back her excitement as she stands by Chazz and Amber with a small happy dance).

Amber: Oh, I should go join the crowd then… I will be back alright.

Chazz: Well of course, go enjoy yourself Mis Amber.  (He says with a smile, as Amber blushes a bit as she heads to the party crowd).

Kairi: (As she skips to Jennifer, Chazz, and Hiki with the small group escorting her behind her she has a look of wonder with a big bright smile as she looks around at all the guests and decorations).  Whoa this is amazing!  You did all of this for me?

Jennifer: Of course, your my little sister and you deserve the biggest birthday party we could give so!  (She pats Kairi’s head and hugs her).  Happy birthday Kairi.

Kairi: (Hugs back with a even bigger excited smile).

Hiki: (Unable to contain herself she walks to Kairi as well and just hugs her tightly).  Happy birthday Kairi!

Kairi: (Hugs back and giggles).  Thank you, this is amazing!

Jennifer: (Laughs).  We were happy to do this for you but enjoy yourself, it is your party after all.

Kairi: (Nods excitedly looking around more).  Ooh where is mom, I need to thank her as well!

Jennifer: (Pauses to think back looking to Chazz to see if he knew for sure).  I think she is sitting with Orion last time I saw her.

Chazz: (He walks up).  Well, she is in the front hallway still receiving guests and thanking them and all the formalities.

Jennifer: Oh, right I should be doing that as well probably, go enjoy your birthday Kairi.  I will be around this area if you need me.

Kairi: Alright!  (She skips away happily, Kura following her acting as her maid as Yami had seemed to go away somewhere).

Jennifer: (As she passes Tori when he is about to catch up to Kairi, he feels a warning glare at him but only for a few seconds).

Tori: (He sighs as he goes off to the side with Hiki).  It’s going to be a long party.

Kairi: (Begins to walk around the party looking in every area excitedly liking all the pink decorations and greeting guests that wish her a happy birthday.  She spots one guest she wanted to greet before still being concerned waving to Maru with Luna to try and get his attention as they arrive in the party area through the hall leading to the guest’s area).

Maru: (As he walks through the entrance with his head down finally realizing who Kairi truly likes so he is doing his best to accept it).

Kairi: (Sees Maru is looking down and her smile starts to fade into concern walking over to meet Maru).  Maru… Is something wrong… Are you feeling alright?  I tried seeing you earlier.

Maru: (He still looks down but answers her).  Yes… I know you did; I am sorry I was just napping because I was quite tired.

Kairi: (Sees Maru is still looking down feeling something is wrong).  Are you sure…? Did I do something wrong?  (As she says that she looks down as well becoming upset thinking she did something wrong but is not sure of what it is).

Kura: (Frowns as she thinks back something puzzling her mind but also from seeing Kairi upset).

Maru: No, you did nothing wrong… It just has been a long day today.

Kairi: Oh alright… If you say so but I hope you enjoy the party too.  I am glad you could make it.  (She smiles at Maru to try and cheer him up giving him a quick hug).

Maru: (He is surprised by the sudden hug but does his best to keep it together).  … Alright I think you have other guests to attend too so do not worry about me… I am just going to sit around for right now.

Kairi: (Pouts a little).  I know there’s other guests, but I wanted to say hi to you, my friend after all.  (She smiles to Maru again when saying this).

Maru: Yes… I guess we are, aren’t we?  (He looks up with a smile but a tear knowing that even if he cannot be with Kairi, he can still be by her side this way).

Kairi: (Sees the tear and gets a concerned look again).  Maru… Are you sure you’re alright…?

Kura: (Suddenly her memory becomes clearer of what she had seen before when thinking she saw two people watching them outside looking at Luna in surprise but understanding why Maru is feeling this way now as she gives a sympathetic look).

Maru: Yes… Everything is alright now….  (He hugs Kairi back).

Luna: (She sighs in relief seeing Maru like this and then looks at Kura with a knowing smile).

Kairi: (Hugs Maru back comfortingly, happy that he is alright giving him a big smile).  I am glad you are alright then. now let’s enjoy the party.  It looks like a lot of fun.

Kura: (Smiles back at Luna and nods).

Maru: Yes, it does… Though there are a lot of faces I do not recognize.

Kairi: I do not think I know many people here either but it’s nice to greet them at least.  (She looks around and then sees Jennifer coming up to her and gets a big smile).  Hi sis!

Jennifer: Hi Kairi I was looking for you, oh and hello Maru, Luna, I hope you enjoy the party and the way here was not too difficult.  We are happy to have you as our guest again.  (She curtsies formally since she is greeting guest like her mother is doing as well at the front door).

Maru: (He stutters a bit as be bows).  No… Um thank you for having me and again having me stay the night.

Jennifer: You are welcomed to stay any time.  (She looks at Kairi and smiles).  Shizen told me she had a surprise for you outside in the woods area, some guests that we should greet.

Kairi: (Looks a little confused).  Some guests?  Who is it?

Jennifer: She would not tell me very much, but we are all meeting by the entrance to go out for a moment.

Kairi: Oh alright.  (She turns to look at Maru again and continues smiling).  Do you want to come with, I am sure they would not mind?

Maru: I umm… if you are alright with it….

Kairi: Of course, I do not mind at all!  (She has a big smile as she encourages Maru to come with her and Jennifer).

Kura: (Walks a little behind them with Luna beside her saying quietly to her).  I think he will be fine Luna… Those types of things just need to be accepted in order it move on.  (She smiles at Luna reassuringly).

Luna: (As Maru goes on ahead, she sighs and puts her hand on her chest).  I know they do… It’s just that boy makes me worry so much sometimes.

Kura: (Laughs).  Yes, I can say the same for me with Kairi and Yami… I guess that can’t be helped.

Luna: Yes… But oh well shall we get going?

Kura: (Nods and smiles as they walk in the direction Jennifer, Kairi and Maru had gone).  Yes, and I am glad we are on better terms this time as well.

Luna: Don’t remind me about that now thank you very much.

Kura: Oh, course now that those issues are no longer a problem.  (As she says this, they catch up to the others Jennifer, Kairi, and Maru meeting Chazz, Hiki and Tori).

Kairi: (Looks a little confused).  Shizen said there was a surprise outside, right?

Jennifer: She said to meet her in the woods.  She said it would not take long but did not give me many details.

Hiki: I wonder what’s it going to be, I’m kind of excited for this!

Kairi: I do not know, let’s find out.  I cannot wait!  (She skips as she heads towards the group followed by everyone else).

Yami: (After they are a little further away from the party area, he appears from the shadows having went into Kairi’s head during the party).  At least not as loud and busy, kept getting weird looks in there.

Kura: Maybe because you are wearing casual clothing.

Yami: (Crosses arms stubbornly).  Not wearing a stupid suit.

Tori: (As he stretches out his necktie).  Yeah, these are not made for me either.  (He loosens the tie).

Kura: Yes, I agree, a maid outfit is not really my taste in clothing, but I deal with it

Yami: Yeah whatever, not going to be caught dead in a suit though.

Kura: (Sighs patting Yami’s head).  We shall see Yami.

Kairi: (Giggles a little).

Yami: Hey no laughing at me!  (He takes a slight amount of darkness but not enough for many to notice for a second).

Hiki: Hey, hey calm down now Yami.  We must be nice here on Kairi’s birthday.

Yami: (Looks at Kairi and crosses his arms).  Fine, just today.

Kairi: (Hugs Yami).  Yay thank you Yami!

Yami: (Is about to tell Kairi to get off but then remembers what he just said and takes the hug though he crosses his arms grumpily still).

Kura: (Laughs along with Jennifer).  I think that is a good start.

Yami: … Shut it….

Hiki: Yes, it is!  (She smiles too).

Chazz: (He waits by Jennifer smiling as he looks at the group as Shizen begins to show herself).

Shizen: (Is seen ahead in an opening in the trees with a green glowing gate in front of her she seems to be focusing on not yet turning around as she is facing the gate).  Ahh everyone is here, oh and some extra guests as well then.

Jennifer: Yes, I hope you do not mind.

Shizen: As long as they do not cause problems for a few extra guests.

Kairi: (Gives a confused look).  Extra guests?

Chazz: (He and everyone else look confused as well not knowing what Shizen means).

Shizen: (Seems to be working on the gate quickly working on a seal which starts to make the gate glow purple with some green instead and of just green which makes her get a big grin).  Ha got it this time!

Jennifer: Have what exactly?

Kairi: Ooh pretty purple color.

Shizen: (Looks back at everyone with a big grin).  One second but I think they will be able to stay for a few hours with all the seals and preparations made.

Rowen: Oh, I see now, very clever now aren’t you Shizen?

Maru: (He and Luna look confused as it seems the rest of the group seems to pick up on what Shizen is doing).

Shizen: Why thank you Rowen, sorry I was away so long but I believe Kairi will appreciate this.

Kairi: (Still seems a little confused but begins to smile).

????: (A few voices can be heard from the other side of the spirit gate).  About time this worked, took long enough!

Kairi: (Gets an even bigger smile jumping a little excitedly).

Hiki: (She gets an excited look as they hear two babies whine a little bit)

?????: Oh man, we might not be here as long as we thought.

?????: I-I’m sure they won’t mind.

????: Well at least we got this working now come on.

 

As this is said some very recognizable poison spirits come out of the portal first Nara who wears a dark purple simple dress with a darker purple border and her dark purple snake tail trailing behind and her black hair pinned up neatly.  Then there is Raku who wears a purple shirt with black pants and then Zahir with his hair trimmed and in his best clothes for the occasion.  Ziona is behind him wearing one of her favorite light purple and white dresses hiding a little with Luka and Lulu in her arms not in view of the group just yet as they come out of the portal.

Jennifer: (Has a big smile seeing them and guesses that Shizen did a lot to get them here being very appreciative).

Kairi: (Gets even more excited as she runs up to them with a big bright smile towards them as she starts giving out hugs).  Hi this is amazing!  You really came all the way here?

Nara: Of course, you did invite us to your birthday after all, and can’t miss out on a good party.

Raku: Though we are here now I’m not sure how people will react to Nara inside?  (He tries to think to himself)

Zahir: Well, I’m sure everything will work out somehow.

Maru: (He is confused as Luna gets a surprised expression).  Luna are you alright?

Nara: Relax I can just put a seal, though kind of not working as they normally would.  Should hold for a few hours hopefully.  (She lifts her tail to draw a seal on them then notices there are new people in the group stopping for a moment being alert).  Oh umm…. More people than I remem-….  (Her eyes stop at Luna as her eyes narrow a little looking more defensive now seeming to know she a light warrior for the council from previous events becoming on guard).

Shizen: (Looks at Luna to see how she will handle the situation with interest).

Jennifer: (Looks between Luna and the poison spirits a bit confused to why everything is silent with a little tension in the air).

Ziona: (Gives a worried expression hiding behind Zahir more holding Luka and Lulu closer and more protectively once noticing how Nara is acting).

Kairi: (Looks concerned and confused, not sure of what is wrong).

Luna: Oh, umm hello… There….  (She is clearly nervous).

Nara: (Still looks on guard).  Hello…. We don’t have any problems, do we?

Kairi: (Looks at Luna then Zahir, Raku and Nara with an even more concerned look).  Please don’t fight….

Luna: No not at all, just surprised really… I did take part I will say though I didn’t want too… I am sorry.  (She has a very sad expression as she bows for forgiveness).

Shizen: (Nods her head approvingly now knowing Luna will not cause them any more problems). 

Kairi: (Hives a hopeful look that everyone calms down).

Nara: (Looks to Zahir and Raku to see what their view on this is).

Ziona: (Looks at Zahir worriedly not wanting him to fight looking at Luna seeing she looks sincere).  Zahir….

Zahir: (He and Raku rub their heads in thought).  Well, it does feel awkward to have someone bow to me… So, don’t do that alright?  If you’re sorry then that’s fine cause it would be better, then what others have done so let get along alright?  (He holds out his hand to her).

Luna: (She looks up at Zahir with surprise and some tears as she grabs his hand).  Yes… We shall get along.

Ziona: (As this happens, she is more in view of everyone as Luka and Lulu start to cry a little, Luna and Maru now noticing the light purple blanket she is holding and the two cries from newborns coming from it one softer than the other as she tries to rock them and get them to calm down).

Shizen: (Goes to stand beside Rowen with a big proud smile).

Nara: (Let’s down her guard and smiles nodding now that she knows there is no threat).

Luna: (upon hearing the babies she is taken by huge surprise) wait what?

Zahir: Oh, looks like the kids are up now… Ziona didn’t want to leave them with anyone else so we brought them along hoping it would be alright.

Rowen: (He laughs a bit).  Yes, yes, everything will be taken care of and yes it should be fine.  You just may need to be more near the balcony when the dances start, I might suggest.

Luna: Their… Twins?  (She still does not believe her eyes).

Zahir: (Realizes why she asks).  Yeah… I guess we got lucky in a special way.

Shizen: (Laughs a little).  It was quite a surprising delivery indeed.

Ziona: (Smiles at Luna).  Their named Luka and Lulu… I had them a few days ago.  (She makes it so that Luka and Lulu are more seen being very small and a little calmer.  Lulu peaks at everyone with light purple eyes shyly as Luka seems to have more curiosity in his dark purple eyes about where they are).

Kairi: (Goes on her toes to see Luka and Lulu better).  Their so cute, I am glad they could come!

Hiki: (She looks up close to the babies). oh, I love seeing them so much!  (As she makes hand movements that are alongside her excitement).

Ziona: (Giggles as she lets Luka and Lulu visit with them Luka reaching out to try and grab at Hiki’s hair as Lulu tries to hide shyly).

Nara: (Laughs as she is looking at Hiki and Kairi play with the twins then has a look like she is in her own thoughts with a small smile).

Shizen: (Raises her eyebrows noticing Nara).  Nara is something wrong?

Nara: (Hears her name being called and breaks out of her own thoughts a bit).  Huh, oh no everything is fine….

Raku: (He looks to Nara with a sense of concern but let’s it go for the moment as everyone talks amongst themselves).

Nara: (Gets out of her thoughts a bit and then sees Maru a little way behind Luna who catches her interest not seeing him with the group before.  As everyone is chatting and catching up with each other she goes behind Maru before he notices then smiles and speaks to him while behind him her arms crossed, and tail coiled up around her).  Well, I don’t think I remember you in this little group.  Who might you be?

Maru: (He does not answer for a second as he gets in front of Luna and holds his head up high).  My name is Maru, it is very nice to meet you Nara.  (He smiles afterwards bravely).

Luna: (She is surprised since she is usually the one that must introduce him).

Nara: (Smiles at Maru).  Well, me, I’m Nara.  You got quite a cute little guy you have here.  (She laughs and pats Maru on the head).

Maru: (He laughs a little bit as he smiles up at Nara).  Nice to meet you too.

Nara: (Calls over to Raku to join in the conversation as Shizen is introducing Zahir and Ziona to Rowen).

Shizen: (Puts an arm over Rowen’s shoulder as she smiles at Zahir and Ziona).  I believe I have told you a little of our adventure before Rowen but I’m glad you are able to meet them in person.  Rowen meet my soon to be new advisor of the nature territory and his wife and family.

Ziona: (Smiles at Rowen bowing her head and little not able to do much more since she is holding Luka and Lulu).  I-it’s nice to meet you, I’m Ziona.

Rowen: (He bows).  Yes, it is very nice to meet you as well Ziona.

Ziona: (Smiles more than sees how Shizen is holding onto Rowen giving a questioning look then looks at Zahir to see if he is wondering the same thing).

Zahir: (He does have the same look as Ziona but doesn’t question it further).

Shizen: (Has a big grin seeing the questioning look and as if to answer the questions kisses Rowen on the cheek).

Ziona: (Gets a surprised look and slight blush, looking from the both of them then back to Zahir again).

Rowen: (He blushes a bit as he rubs his cheek).  Quick to show off now aren’t you Shizen….

Zahir: (He laughs a bit seeing Shizen do this).  Oh yeah, she is but regardless nice to meet you too Rowen.  (He quirks a smile at him).

Shizen: I was only answering their questions, but I am glad you are doing well, though you look tired.  Having little ones does affect that.  (She laughs a little).

Ziona: (Smiles down at Luka and Lulu and giggles at the cute faces they make).  I don’t mind it….

Zahir: Yeah… It is all worth it.

Shizen: (Grins and nods).  And Ziona you look a lot better, even surpassing my own expectations I see.

Ziona: (Smiles and looks up at Zahir).  Thank you… I had a lot of help.

Zahir: (He rubs his nose as he smiles and holds Ziona’s hand tight).  Yeah… I should be thanking you instead.

Ziona: (Smiles up more at Zahir leaning against him so they can hold their kids together and be closer to one another).

Shizen: (Smiles at the family then holds Rowen’s hand looking at everyone catching up with each other).  I suppose it’s time to head back, people will wonder where the birthday girl has gone.

Nara: (Seems to like the idea of a night to party).  Oh yeah supposed to be a big party right, can’t pass that up!

Yami: (Shrugs not seeming as excited about the party).  Ehh dancing and stuff not my thing.

Kura: (Sighs).  Just deal with it for tonight at least, it’s Kairi’s day after all.

Yami: (Crosses his arms stubbornly).  Yeah, I know just not dancing and stuff.

Kura: Then just go by the food, I know you will enjoy that part.

Yami: … I guess. 

Nara: Ooh always could use something to eat so let’s get going.  (She starts to draw a seal on her snake tail to make it look like human legs seeming to have a little difficulty with her magic which is very odd for her since it is a seal she knows well).

Raku: (He looks at Nara wondering what is up with her since he knows that she draws this seal out from time to time whenever she doesn’t feel confident which is surprising, she struggles with it now).

Shizen: (Notices Nara struggle with her energy a little raising her eyebrows as they are travelling back).  Everything alright Nara?

Nara: (Stops and laughs a little in embarrassment).  Umm no… Raku… Just help me with this….

Ziona: (Gives a confused and concerned look towards Nara then looks up at Zahir).

Raku: (He shakes his head yes as he completes the seal in seconds letting Nara get her human legs back).  There we go.

Zahir: (Still looking confused like the rest of the group he ignores it for now as he holds Ziona’s hand tight).  Alright then shall we head into the party than?

Hiki: Yay it’s party time!  (She seems to change into her normal black and white dress she wears from time to time using her energy).  Let’s go!

Kairi: (Giggles and runs to the mansion along with Hiki being excited as the rest of the group walks it not being too far a walk before they arrive).

Cordelia: (Is at the front door with Orion to greet them Hiki and Kairi making it there first with everyone else not far behind).  Ahh there you are, I was wondering where everyone had gone too.

Kairi: (Has a big smile).  Sorry mom but Shizen had surprise guests for me!

Cordelia: (Looks at the few new people in the group as they are catching up).  I see, I suppose the new people in your group are those guests?

Zahir: (He raises his hand up as he walks forward).  Evening madam, sorry for the sudden intrusion but Mis Shizen over there asked us to come so what manners would we have if we declined such a kind offer?

Cordelia: (Smiles politely and curtsies to the new guests).  It is no problem at all, we welcome you here happily.

Ziona: (Bows a little as she holds Lulu and Zahir holds Luka).  T-thank you for having us.

Nara: (Looks into the doorway seeing how busy it is inside).  Wow you really know how to throw a big party.

Shizen: (Laughs and smiles then looks at Orion).  Thank you for letting them attend and I think you have met them before quite a while ago Orion, a lot has happened for them indeed since then.  (She pats Zahir on the back).

Zahir: Yeah… You could say that some big things did happen.

Orion: (Laughs).  Yes, I can see that.  (After a quick overview of everyone else).  Well regardless welcome to the party.

Nara: Ooh looks like there’s a lot of good food set out; Raku let’s get something to eat.

Ziona: Nara we all ate before we left.

Nara: doesn’t mean we can’t have more, come on Raku.  (She holds Raku’s arm to encourage him to go with her).

Raku: Yeah… Alright let’s go eat then Nara.

Nara: (Goes over to the food area happily dragging Raku along).

Cordelia: (Turns to Zahir and Ziona with a polite smile).  We have an area for small children if you would like to go by that area.  It is quieter for you little ones at least.

Zahir: Yes, that would be perfect, thank you very much.

Cordelia: Very well, it is near the balcony, so it is not hard to miss.

Ziona: T-thank you.  (She bows and walks side by side with Zahir to the area Cordelia had pointed out).

Kairi: (Looks around the inside as if looking for someone).  Oh, what about dad, could he make it?

Jennifer: (Has a small frown hearing Kairi’s question knowing the answer from experience).

Cordelia: (Has the same type of frown though more troubled glancing to Orion before looking down at Kairi).  … Unfortunately, he could not attend again, I am sorry Kairi.

Kairi: (Gets a small, disappointed look).  Oh….

Cordelia: For now, enjoy your time with your friends… I am sure it had to be a good reason to miss something as important as this.  (She says this with a hint of an upset and frustration that Orion and the ones that know her well can see).

Jennifer: (Holds Kairi’s shoulder to go somewhere to distract her looking at Hiki to help with this).  Come on Kairi, let’s go into the party.  I am sure the dances and appetizers are starting by now.

Hiki: (She gets the hint as she takes Kairi’s hand).  Yes, come now!  Let’s go have a good time!

Orion: (He and Rowen sighs knowing why Cordeila is frustrated as Chazz and the rest of group follow Kairi, Hiki and Jennifer into the mansion).

Shizen: (Seems to understand the situation and nods trying to lighten the mood).

Kairi: (Heads into the ballroom area as everyone seems to brighten the mood as people start to dance as couples to a more energetic song the ballroom area seeming excited to dance looking at Tori with a excited look).  Ooh let’s dance, it looks fun!  (She grabs Tori’s hand to try and pull him to the dance floor).

Jennifer: (Looks at Tori for a moment then looks away as if trying to accept it but keeping a eye on him still).

Kura: (Sees Maru a little further away getting something to eat but still sees him look over).

Tori: (He shrugs off the staring as he takes Kairi’s hand to the dance floor).

Jennifer: (As both Tori and Kairi go to the dance floor she sighs and smiles a little shaking her head letting go of her protectiveness for now as she stands beside Chazz and Hiki).

Hiki: (It seems she is getting impatient for something as she gets behind Jennifer and Chazz and pushes them together).  Gosh why don’t you two go dance already.

Jennifer: (Looks back at Hiki with surprise and as she gets her balance back, she blushes looking at Chazz then down being embarrassed).  Umm… I-I do not know.  (She looks away embarrassed and back at Hiki having her feelings for him in consideration as well).

Hiki: (She waves her hand).  It’s fine, it’s fine I’ll get my turn afterwards.  I think it’s only fair for the engaged couple to dance first.  (She says with a smile).

Chazz: (He is at a loss really, not sure what is going on).

Jennifer: (Still seems concerned but nods knowing it is hard to argue with Hiki).  Alright… As long as it is fair….  (She looks up at Chazz).  And if you want to.

Chazz: (After process everything in his head).  Yes… It would be fair and Hiki… I-.

Hiki: (She blocks his lips with her finger).  I know master… Just go enjoy yourself alright.  (She says with a smile still).

Jennifer: (Still has a concerned back at Hiki but nods as she and Chazz go out onto the dance floor together).

Kura: (Goes up to Hiki from behind having watched being curious pausing for a moment as she stands beside her now).  Hiki… It may not be my place to ask… But why encourage him to be with another when you have feelings for him too…?

Hiki: (She sighs as she does her best to keep up her smile).  I’m not really sure myself… All I know is that master would be happy with either of us… But I know master won’t live as long as me… So maybe I do this because I’m so scared of that event happening… With Jenny it won’t be as hard on him at least… I think.

Kura: (Takes a long pause understanding what Hiki is saying, and the fear all spirits with contracts have to face eventually looking at Tori and Kairi as well as she thinks and then looks down).  … I suppose I understand that fear too… But I guess the memories are something we always hold onto… But for now… Until your fear is easier to manage… And you can dance with him so that smile is real… Would you like to just dance together to take our minds off those fears for now… You don’t have to but maybe it will help calm your mind from sad thoughts for now… It is a party after all, we should be having fun, I think. (She smiles at Hiki comfortingly trying to help her feel better).

Hiki: (She sighs out as a relief).  Sure… I wouldn’t mind doing though it would stand out now, wouldn’t it?  Though it will be fun with you.

Kura: (Laughs with a slight blush then once putting that aside that smiles and offers her hand for Hiki to take).  I don’t mind standing out really if you don’t.  It’s a party, we need to have fun… And I think it will be at least.  I just don’t like seeing a fake smile… It doesn’t suit you.

Hiki: Yeah… I have been told it doesn’t.  (She takes Kura’a hand).  Shall we dance then Kura?

Kura: (Smiles and walks with Hiki to the dance floor).  I think we should it looks quite fun.

 

Everyone starts to dance seeming to enjoy each other’s company.  Maru still stands by where Luna was serving him juice seeing Kairi dance with Tori as he stands by the wall the crowd seeming to move away from that area and more towards the dancing.

Maru: (He sighs).  Not that surprising if I think about it… Though it was a nice idea, I guess I was wrong.

Luna: (She comes to Maru with the juice he had requested).  Master, are you sure you are alright?

Maru: (He just noticed Luna is right there).  Yes, I will be fine… But Luna you should go enjoy the party.  Do not worry about me, just go alright?

Luna: (She seems surprised but cannot refuse him).  As you wish master Maru… I will head back to the room to change then… I’m sorry.

Maru: (As Luna leaves his side, he keeps watching the crowd as they dance together seeming to have made a path to the other side of the party hall).

 

The crowd seems to dance around a girl who sits on a bench against the wall with a cup of tea Hiki had brought for her at one of the empty tables seeming to stare downwards at it.  Her golden blond straight hair being cut to shoulder length with a white flower and one side of it.  Her skin is pale with light pale blue eyes standing out with no black pupil visibly seen in the middle.  Her formal blue dress is long sleeved with shades of light blue on top leading down to darker blues as it reaches the fabric of the skirt.  She stares down she seems to be in her own little world not seeming to pay attention to the crowd of people or the party events being more to herself.

Maru: (He is captivated by the girl’s presence.  He cannot find the words to describe her… All he can think about is how pretty she is in such a unique way that stands out to him).

Hailey: (Still seems to look downwards with her hands neatly and politely in her lap with a small smile as she listens to the music and the people enjoying themselves).

Maru: (In the midst of the moment he gets up and crosses the party hall to where the girl is).  I… Have to say hi since it seems she is by herself.  (He tells himself so he can excuse his actions).

Hailey: (Seems to be humming to herself a little but to Maru it seems she does not notice him coming up beside her or any of her surroundings as she still is looking at little downward oddly in a little world of her own as though seeming a little lonely and quiet by herself).

Maru: (As he sits next to her, he wonders what she is humming.  He wants to ask but he cannot bring himself to do it, so he just sits there and listens to her).

Hailey: (As she hums her hands are in her lap, but one hand seems to be tapping on the other as if she is playing the piano to the tune she is humming).

Maru: (In an instant he sees that the girl is playing alongside the tune of the song currently playing and he can imagine a piano being played).

Hailey: (Continues to hum and go along with the song as she acts as if playing a piano to it a little and at one point her hand touches his hand.  Looking surprised that she had hit something on table she is not sure what it is at first but as her hand is on top of Maru’s softly, she realizes it is someone’s hand.  She then quickly holds her hands close to her face in a timid nervous way not sure if someone is there or not, wanting to make sure).  U-umm… H-hello?

Maru: (He hesitates to talk at first but after a couple of moments of silence he finally speaks up).  Oh um hello there… How are you this evening.

Hailey: (Hears Maru and gets flustered looking in the direction of his voice Maru able to tell she is very timid and shy.  She stumbles a little from surprise she hides her face a little in embarrassment).  I-I am sorry… Was I in the way… I-I can move… I-I am sorry.  (She bows apologetically in her seat a little in embracement with a blush).

Maru: (He giggles a little bit this feeling so familiar).  No, it is fine, I was enjoying your hand movements.  I felt like I was actually watching you play the piano.  Do you play often?

Hailey: (Holds her hands in her lap a little nervously staring downwards towards them).  … I-I like to play… B-but usually I am alone doing that… But the music was nice… So, I wanted to remember it….  (Her blush deepens a little as she gains a small smile).

Maru: (He smiles at the girl).  Well, I like to play as well though the last time I played a song… Was for family event though I was not that good….  (He laughs as he rubs the back of his head with the embarrassment as he remembers).

Hailey: (Gets a small giggle but continues to look downward and not once directly at Maru seeming odd to him but still seems shy as she talks to him).  O-oh umm… You seem quite nice… But c-can I ask your name… If not too much trouble.

Maru: Well if I get yours as well.  My name is Maru, nice to meet you.

Hailey: (Gives a polite smile and small blush).  I-I am Hailey… Nice to meet you too.

Maru: (He smiles more).  Hailey….  (He says quietly to himself).  So, Hailey do you want to go have a dance… Or something?

Hailey: (Looks quite surprised and taken off guard, not sure if she heard him correctly at first).  A-a dance?  … You mean w-with me?

Maru: (He shakes his head yes).  Of course, with you silly.  Everyone should at least dance once at a party like this, especially if it is Kairi birthday party.

Hailey: Oh… Umm I-I am not very good at dancing… Or crowds though… I can be a little clumsy… I am sorry.  (She looks downwards again).

Maru: (He rubs her head by instinct).  Do not worry about that… I will be with you the entire time, so let’s both make fools of ourselves.

Hailey: (Giggles at Maru’s response).  Alright… Thank you for asking… I am not really used to it… But your very nice… So, I can try.  (She gives him a shy cute smile and a faint blush).

Maru: (He smiles as well with the blush).  Good I am glad I could have this dance than….  (He holds out his hand to her as he stands up).

Hailey: (Nods and stands carefully but not taking Maru’s hand, not noticing it seeming odd to Maru because she did not take his hand but reaches out for his arm realizing he is beside her so he can escort her still with a shy smile).  T-thank you.

Maru: (He is still surprised that Hailey did not grab his hand since it seems kind of rude but how she has acted so far, he cannot think of her being rude at all, so he ignores it and grabs her arm).  Shall we get going then?

Hailey: (Nods hesitantly but seems a bit nervous).  Y-yes… I umm, lead the way please… If you do not mind.

Maru: (He laughs a little as he leads her to the dance floor).  Why yes of course madam.

Hailey: (Clings to Maru very closely still seeming nervous hearing the people around them Maru feeling like he is leading her from how she clings to him a little oddly or else she would be bumping into the people around them).

Maru: (He leads her just fine as they make it to the outer rim side of the dance floor).  Well, here we are.

Hailey: (Still seems a little nervous but nods facing Maru, but she is still not sure of what to do or how they should dance.  She places her hands on his shoulders smiling at Maru shyly but politely).  T-thank you… For asking me to dance.

Maru: No… I should be thanking you for accepting my offer.  (He puts his hands on her waist nervously).  Shall we dance then?

Hailey: (Nods letting Maru lead with a slight blush as she looks down and smiles).  … It is just that no one ever really asked me before… N-not that I minded… Y-your very nice to talk with me after all.  (She looks in Maru’s direction but not directly at him with her shy smile and a growing blush).

Maru: (He smiles back).  Well in honesty I have not asked anyone before, nor did anyone ask me personally besides on accident… So, I am not sure exactly what I am doing.

Hailey: (Giggles a little).  I-I guess we both can figure it out….  (She dances with Maru though a little stiffly still stepping on his feet a bit which makes her a little flustered and apologize many times as she becomes embarrassed trying her best to follow Maru’s movements).  S-sorry….

Maru: (He smiles).  Do not worry about it, just enjoy the dance Hailey… Nothing else to it really so just reach for my hand… And keep dancing through the night.

Hailey: (Smiles back and nods though she continues to blush enjoying her dance with Maru).

 

The crowd seems to move a bit with some people going to the tables where food is being set out.  One person does the same not paying attention as they run into Maru and Hailey making them separate making Hailey panic a little not sure of what had happened being pushed into the crowd more and away from Maru.  She is not sure of where he is or what had happened.

Hailey:  M-Maru… W-what happen… W-where….  (She gets more nervous hearing how loud the area is, not sure of where to go keeping her hands close to her nervously).

Maru: (As he is pushed around the crowd, he struggles to keep his hand held out to Hailey).  Hey… Wai-what is with everyone… Hailey!  (He calls out as he panics knowing how shy she is now, so he does his best to push through while holding his hand in her direction)

Hailey: (Hears her name from Maru turning in that direction quickly though not seeing him or his hand held out she runs into another person being a taller young man who was dancing near them jumping back a little holding her hands close to her still very nervously putting her head down apologetically).  … S-sorry… P-please excuse me….

????: (The man turns around with an annoyed and a bit of an angry look, looking down seeing the girl that bumped into him).  Watch where you’re going, you blind or something!

Hailey: (Looks more upset and nervous as she has her head down and she brings her hands closer to herself).  I-I umm… Please forgive me… I-I did not mean to.  (Her voice becomes quieter at the end).

????: (Looks even more annoyed).  Come on speak up, you’re not mute too, right?  Do you even know who my family is!

Hailey: … I-I am….  (She continues looking downwards, backing up being more upset and now a little teary eyed from it).

????: (Steps closer to her with an angry expression).  Come on say something, don’t just stand there!  What’s wrong with you, need to be taught manners!  (He reaches out to grab Hailey’s arm).

Maru: (As he hears the commotion, he rushes over to Hailey using his powers to help get there faster as his rage is building and wanting to protect Hailey).

Hailey: (Hears someone move closer to her moving backwards making her even more nervous and making the man miss grabbing her).

????: (Laughs seeming amused seeing her back away).  Come on you scared or something, get over here.

Hailey: (Does not know what to do and is unable to voice a response although she tries no sound comes out).

Maru: (In an instant he is there grabbing the man’s arm and looking down at Hailey).  Sir, I would highly prefer if you left the lady here alone… Your presence is not needed here at this party if you are going to act like this and try to force an action on a young lady….  (He looks up and the guy sees Maru’s eyes as different colors, blue and light silver).  Now leave!

Hailey: (Perks up hearing Maru’s voice but still gives a nervous and scared look not knowing exactly what is happening) …. M-Maru?

????: (Looks very offended and angrier as they attract the attention of the people around him).  Who the hell do you think you are to talk to me like that kid!  I’ll teach you a lesson!  (He pulls back his fist to punch at Maru in anger).

Maru: (He catches the punch and looks even more mad as he deflects the attempted attack and knocks the gentlemen down).  Now you are done… Please leave.

????: (Is dazed and out of it for a few seconds until servants come to help him up and escort him out, the man mumbling to Maru with a dazed yet humiliated and angered look).  Dam brat, I’ll show you next time….

Hailey: (Still has a nervous look not knowing what happened as she stands behind Maru not knowing he is there but her voice still quiet).  … W-what happen… M-Maru?… A-are you there?…

Maru: (As his eyes turn back to their normal color, he turns around looks at Hailey as he takes her hand).  yes, I am right here… I will be close by from now on.

Hailey: T-thank you….  (She looks more relieved and less nervous holding onto Maru’s hand tightly as she looks in the direction, she hears Maru although unable to look him in the eyes.  This time Maru is closer to her face though her not noticing he is as he sees her pale light blue eyes clearly looking into them seeing no pupil and that she is not looking into his eyes like they are unable to).

Maru: (He realizes why Hailey has been acting oddly).  I see… I am sorry… I was not considerate of your sight….

Hailey: (Gives a surprised expression).  Oh… Umm I-it is alright… I did not want to cause to much trouble for you… I-I am sorry I just do not want to be too much of a burden to you.  (She looks down).

Maru: (He sighs).  Now why would you cause trouble for me, and you have not been a burden at all so far.

Hailey: (Holds her hands together in front of her as she continues to look down).  … If you are sure… I-I just feel like I am since people help me a lot… Like you are… A-and with what just happened… A-are you alright Maru… I-I heard fighting… Y-you did not have to for me… Are you hurt?  (She gives a concerned expression but also seeming to think it is her fault in a way).

Maru: (As he grabs her hands, he lightly kisses them).  No… No, I am not hurt at all… Just do not think you are a bother when I know for a fact that you are not one.

Hailey: (After a few seconds she realizes Maru’s lips were on her hand and begins to blush heavily but smiles after hearing him).  T-thank you… W-we can finish our dance… I-if you want to, I mean… It just was nice….  (She gives Maru a sweet shy smile as she continues to blush).

Maru: (He smiles as he takes her hand and walks back to where they had danced before).  Yes… I would like to dance with you again Hailey.

Hailey: (Smiles and nods holding onto Maru’s hand tightly and then holding onto Maru’s arm so he can guide her).

Luna: (Comes back from the room and changed into her white dress for the party she had brought being simple with her hair mostly down.  When she comes back, she cannot seem to find Maru, so she looks around a bit worriedly).

Yami: (Is leaning against the wall next to Luna casually as he is watching everyone as Luna looks around for Maru looking towards her wondering what’s going on).  Sup?  Looking for something?

Luna: (She is taken by surprise at first by the sudden greeting).  Oh, hello Yami, and yes, I’m looking for Maru since he seemed to be in a bad mood when I left.

Yami: (Shrugs).  Really?  Seems fine to me, he’s just dancing with some girl, I guess.  (He looks at the dance floor with a crowd of people and Maru dancing with Hailey on the outside of the crowd).

Luna: (She is surprised seeing Maru dance with another girl especially after what happened with Kairi).

Yami: (Shrugs again).  I don’t know, kind of funny when he pushed some guy to the ground that was picking on her.

Luna: (She is silent for few moments).  … He did what now?

Yami: (Puts his hands against the wall still leaning against the wall casually as he looks up).  Yeah, some asshole was yelling at her and tried to grab her I guess, and Maru grabbed and blocked him, it was cool.  Don’t mind if I spar with him tomorrow, right?

Luna: Um no you can’t… I feel like I should go ask him myself… But I can’t bring myself to do it with that smile on his face right now… I guess he grew up in the moments I was gone than… Huh.

Yami: (Seems more concerned with sparring).  I guess but got to stand up by himself sometime but come on why can’t we spar.  It would be awesome and no going in his head again, it’s cheating.

Luna: Yes, I understand… It’s just….  (She cannot bring the words to describe how she feels yet a sense of pride with Maru and how he is standing up for himself).  Maybe he doesn’t need me anymore… Such a sad thought but who knows, the young master is someone anyone can depend on.  He always has been… But still… I’m happy for him.

Maru: (As he is dancing with Hailey, he notices Luna and, in an instant, he smiles at her with his eyes closed saying in his head).  “Luna… you have to show how to dance sometime alright?”

Luna: (She waves and giggles a bit hearing Maru).  Well maybe not just yet, such a child he can be.

 

 The party continues with dancing and food Zahir and Ziona sit holding Luka and Lulu by the balcony as Cordelia, Orion and Rowen join them seeming to enjoy their chat.  Nara is collecting as much food as she can on her plate as Raku is next to her with a confused look.

Cordelia: (As there is light conversation, she realizes something and frowns looking around trying not to seem worried although she is.  She holds her necklace with one of the blue water gems on it, Orion and Rowen seeing her trying not to look to frantic in her search).

Orion: (He looks at Cordeila with concern).  Everything alright madam Cordeila?

Cordelia: (As she is looking in every place, she can think of making sure the area is clear of guests with no knowledge on spirits).  Umm yes… Everything is-….  (She stops looking at a glass of water Zahir has in her hand seeing someone very familiar to her in the glass.  Seeing Zahir about to drink from it her eyes go wide leaning forward quickly, blurting out at him).  Do not drink it!

Zahir: (Is taken off guard as he drops the glass onto the floor by her sudden outburst).

Ziona: (Is taken off guard as well looking down at the glass).

Cordelia: (Quickly goes to kneel by the broken glass where what seems to look like water moving into her hand.  She sighs in relief going back into her seat as the blob of water shapes into the figure of a little girl in a simple dress made of water as well).  Thank goodness.

Hamako: (Looks at Zahir and Ziona tilting her head in curiosity).

Orion: (He and everyone else look at Hamako in pure surprise).  Wait why… Hamako what were you doing there?

Hamako: (Looks up at Orion from standing in Cordelia’s hand being at least a few inches tall and smiles cutely).  Want…. Water.

Cordelia: (Laughs).  You could have asked me, and do not wander away please.

Hamako: (Nods).  Ok… Mama.

Ziona: (Looks at Hamako then Zahir with a very surprised look still).

Zahir: (He holds up his hands for a moment).  Hold up, hold up what is going with the water spirit and her calling you mama?

Cordelia: Oh, I suppose I never mentioned I knew of spirits, I thought you assumed.  This is the one I have a contract with named Hamako, she is still very young, but she is like one of my children in a way.

Hamako: (Faces Zahir and Ziona hopping down to the table to look up at them).

Ziona: (Still looks very speechless).  S-so you know that we are…?

Cordelia: Spirits?  Yes, Shizen told me poison type I believe?

Zahir: Umm yes… I’m sorry, I thought you didn’t know about us… So, I must apologize for my rudeness.

Rowen: (He and Orion sigh).

Cordelia: (Smiles politely).  No need to be sorry although my knowledge of spirits is not as big as others, however.

Ziona: (Smiles at Hamako reaching her hand out to her that is not holding Lulu, both twins sleeping in each parents’ arms).

Hamako: (Climbs onto Ziona’s hand running to stand on her shoulder staring down at Lulu then Luka her eyes looking in wonder).  … Ba-by….

Ziona: (Giggles).  Yes, their babies and named Luka and Lulu.  (She holds Lulu up a little more for Hamako to see better).

Hamako: (Reaches out in wonder and a smile forms).  Luky…. Lulu.

Cordelia: (Smiles with a small laugh remembering when Hamako saw her children when that age).

Zahir: (He smiles after Hamako says this).  Yeah… Hopefully they don’t want to play right now since we didn’t bring a change of clothes.

Cordelia: Well can help you if you need blankets for them if so.

Nara: (Comes back with as much food as she could possibly fit on her plate with Raku behind her with a smaller plate of food).  Hey anything we miss….  (She then sees the tiny water spirit on Ziona’s shoulder pausing for a moment).

Cordelia: (Notices what Nara is staring).  Yes, that is Hamako, my water spirit.

Nara: (Looks a little surprised).  Oh… Cool.  (She decides not to question it sitting with Raku as she starts eating.  Some take notice of how much food she had taken, most being odd combinations with chocolate even the many options of appetizers seeming odd for those who know her).

Ziona: (Looks at the large amount of food with surprise).

Raku: (He cannot bring himself to say anything about the amount food Nara has).

Zahir: You alright there Nara?  You’re eating more than you usually do.

Nara: (Tries to it shrug off with an almost nervous laugh but hides it).  But the foods so good though.

Ziona: (Looks at the food covered in chocolate and laughs at the weird combinations but then something pops into her mind that she used to do this, eyes widening for a second but shakes it off thinking maybe it is nothing).

Cordelia: (Her eyebrows raise but she decides not to say anything).

Zahir: (He and Raku still seem to be a bit lost as they eat their own food).

Cordelia: (Laughs a little then looks around to see if others are around so they do not notice Hamako). 

Hamako: (Hops from Ziona’s shoulder to Zahir’s shoulder looking at Luka now less in view as well if someone walked past).  Ba-by….

Zahir: (After being confused as he says silently).  Baby… Baby….  (As he seems to connect the dots, he opens his mouth as though he is about to yell something).  Ohh it’s-!  (In an instant Ziona blocks off his mouth).

Cordelia: (Cannot help but laugh at the reaction understanding it as well knowing to go to a different topic as she looks around noticing Shizen was taking a long time getting herself a drink.  She then notices her with men seeming to try and flirt).

Shizen: (Knowing suitors would be there they seem to take interest in her.  She seems to be slightly annoyed with an eyebrow raised on one very forward suitor but a little mischievousness in her expression of how to handle the situation since her disinterested expression was not seeming to sink into this one’s head).

Cordelia: Well then, looks like Shizen is catching some attention.

Rowen: (As he sees this happen a sudden feeling of irritation comes up but gets out a sigh knowing Shizen can handle herself though he does clench his fists together).

Orion: Oh boy, I wonder on how this will play out now.

Nara: (Takes notice as well and laughs a little).  Wow their pretty bold, feel sorry for the guy but this should be good.

Shizen: (Leans against the wall with her arms crossed as the one pursuing her has a hand on the wall beside her inches closer and closer to her and it being clear the man stares at her chest.  She sighs and casually with a polite smile reaches up and grabbing his hand holding it in a odd grip as if fitting a specific spot making the man look in sudden large amount of pain).

Rowen: (He sighs as he loosens up).  I may need to get the medical maids to come in… Oh well that can wait for a bit more.

Shizen: (Moves away from the man as he still looks in a lot of pain grabbing his hand… She goes to where the group is sitting by the balcony smiling and sitting beside Rowen putting a arm around his shoulder).  Sorry if that took so long.  Though I have to say they are very persistent.

Cordelia: (Laughs).  That is quite true.

Orion: Always handing people in your own now, aren’t you?

Rowen: Yes, yes.

Zahir and Raku: Yep, sounds like it.

Shizen: (Nods and smirks taking a sip of wine).  Well, some need to know it’s rude to stare in certain areas.  I believe that message was well received.

Cordelia: (Sighs).  I apologize for that, most nobles able to attend, unfortunately not all have the proper number of mannerisms that is required of them.

Nara: There’s people like that all over, but nice move breaking their hand.

Shizen: It was only a sprain; I didn’t break it… I believe.

Ziona: (Takes care of Luka and Lulu not really having anything she can add but also hearing the twins start to cry and wake up).

Nara: (Stops and looks at the crying twins a little oddly as if in thought).

Zahir: (As the twins are crying, he does his best to help calm them down along with Ziona).

Shizen: (Notices Nara’s odd expression and how she has been acting a little odd then notices the food on her plate as well, her curiousness and suspicion growing).  Nara is everything alright?

Nara: (Is taken off guard and gets an almost nervous laugh).  Yes, everything is fine.

Shizen: (Has eyebrows raised in more curiousness and assumptions growing).  Hmm are you sure…?  Quite odd food selections for you.

Nara: (Gets another nervous look then tries to shrug it off but looks away with a small blush).  No… Just a little hungry is all.

Shizen: (Gets a small smile almost like coming to a conclusion after the next answer she would hear holding up a glass of wine for her).  How about a glass of wine?  I do know you like to drink.

Nara: (Pauses staring at and then away from the glass knowing Shizen is right not knowing how to respond at first).  Umm… M-maybe some other time… I’m not feeling well.

Shizen: (Gets a big grin as if her assumptions confirmed backing off from the topic now that she knows for sure).

Raku: (As he looks around confused by this whole event as he sets his finished plate of food on the side having finished a while ago).

 

The conversation goes on as most of the group that had been dancing starts to head to meet with the ones by the balcony.  Cordelia seeing Amber excuses herself remembering she had seen the merchants she had mentioned could help her.  The rest of the group being Jennifer, Chazz, Hiki, Tori, Kairi and Kura stand or sits with everyone else grabbing something to eat as well.  As they are catching up Maru finishes his dance as well but still escorts Hailey around with him as she holds onto his arm to not get lost Luna being a little outside of the group and noticing them first wanting to meet this girl that Maru seemed to like.

Maru: Yes of course you silly.

Hailey: (Looks down not sure where to start having trouble at first talking about herself taking some pauses).  I-I guess… Umm my family are lesser nobles, and I am an only child… B-but I heard my family was distant cousins to this one… So, their invited sometimes… B-but this is my first party… I have never been to one.

Maru: (He realizes what he said might have been bad).  Oh… Umm I am sorry… But are you having fun?  I do not want to make your first party a bad experience….

Hailey: (Says in a almost flustered and reassuring tone waving her hand a little from the flusteredness).  N-no not at all… It is just not many really talk to me… So, I am not used to it.

Maru: (He laughs a bit seeing Hailey get all flustered).  Well… I will talk to you as much you want so never question that.

Hailey: (Smiles and laughs a little as well feeling better).  Thank you… I guess I am not used to that… Not a lot of people talk to me since… I cannot see them… But I like imagining what things and people look like… I can get an idea in some ways though….  (She smiles looking down, her hands folding a little in front of her).

Maru: Well, after hearing me for a while, what do you think I look like?  I want to hear your best guess, Hailey!  (As he takes her hand in his excitement).

Hailey: (Blushes becoming timid not wanting to make a mistake).  A-are you sure?

Maru: (He wonders why she asks).  Yes, I am sure silly.

Hailey: I-I can try.  (She looks downwards more as if concentrating).  I think… You are a little taller than me… And your hair is medium length maybe like cut so it’s ends at your cheeks… and your hands are callus a little… Like working or holding a weapon in a way or had fighting training… But also, smooth and gentle too… Umm I-I cannot really tell much else now… B-but your voice is nice too… I-it is… Sweet. (A blush spreads as she says that not sure if she should guess anymore).

Maru: (He blushes a bit upon hearing Hailey describe him).  Well… Um… I think I need to go really quick… So, I will guide you down by a table and I will be back as fast as I can alright?

Hailey: (Looks surprised but still is blushing heavily letting Maru guide her to a table).  A-alright… Thank you… S-sorry if it was weird….

Maru: No, no… It is not like that… I just need to go find someone really quick… I will be right back.

Hailey: (Smiles and nods as she sits at the table to wait).  Alright… I will be right here.

Maru: (As he gets up, he notices Luna is nearby as it also seems Yami is by her though he is not sure why though).  Luna.

Luna: (She raises her head as she pulls some of her hair behind her ear).  Yes Maru?

Maru: Umm… Can I ask you a question…?

Luna: Why yes of course you can, what is it now.  (She says with a smile as she can already guess what it will be).

Maru: Oh um… I was wondering if you could umm…  (He struggles a bit with getting the words out).

Yami: (Stretches his arms and bit having stuck around not having anything else interesting going on so feeling bored).  What’s with the big pauses and that was cool how beat up the asshole before.  (He gives a thumbs up).

Maru: (He stops in his tracks).  Oh… You saw that… Well… He was being mean to Hailey… And I did not want to just watch this time… Well, um….

Luna: (She pets his head).  It is alright, you did the right thing Maru so no need to overthink it.

Yami: Yeah, next time start with punching them in the face, oh and we’re sparring tomorrow too.

Maru: Wait what?  Why are we sparring?

Yami: (Shrugs).  I mean didn’t really count last time, still was a good fight though and you seem good at it so why not.  Sparrings fun anyways.

Luna: (She sighs).  I think I will need to object because I’m sure something or someone else is on master Maru mind right now.

Yami: Fine I’ll ask tomorrow, going to go get some fresh air, I guess.  (He digs in his pocket remembering something).  Oh, Luna guess you’ll want this back.  (He pulls out a necklace Luna was wearing with a white gem and gold chain holding it out to her as he’s about to go).

Maru: (He is just blushing the entire time from the whole conversation as he looks at Hailey to make sure no one is messing with her).

Yami: See ya.  (He gives the necklace back to Luna putting his hands in his pockets waving goodbye casually then leaves to head outside).

Luna’ (She sighs as she puts the necklace back on and looks at Maru).  Now Maru would you mind introducing me to your new friend.

Maru: (He is taken off guard by the sudden question but shakes his head yes as he comes back to the table where Hailey is waiting eagerly).

Hailey: (Is sitting right where Maru had left her staring downwards but perks up once hearing movement approaching her).  H-hello?  (She listens around for a voice hoping it is Maru’s not able to tell Luna is in front of her with Maru right behind).

Maru: Umm Hailey… I have someone I want you to meet that means a lot to me….

Hailey: (Gets a smile hearing Maru facing the direction of his voice and a small blush).  Oh Maru… S-so someone else is here?  (She realizes someone might be with him and becomes more shy folding her hands a little nervously).

Luna: (She holds one of Hailey’s hands as she holds it tight).  Hello there Mis Hailey… My name is Luna, and I am masters Maru maid.  It is very nice to meet you.

Hailey: (Holds Luna’s hand back in the greeting but more hesitantly and delicately as she nods timidly).  H-hello Luna… I am Hailey… It is nice to meet you… Maru talked a lot about you.  (She stands carefully and curtsies to Luna looking in the direction of her voice with a shy timid smile).

Luna: (She laughs a little bit).  Now no need to get so polite all of a sudden Hailey.  I already know you are nice girl….  (She says silently but Hailey can hear it slightly but not Maru).  I hope you can be there for Maru when I cannot….

Hailey: (Gives a confused look able to hear Luna even though it is quiet).  W-what do you mean by that?

Maru: (He is confused as well since he did not hear Luna at all and looks at Hailey with the confused look).

Luna: (She says quietly again).  You will find out in due time but for now I am thankful you can get along with him so thank you.

Hailey: (Says quietly with a small smile and hands folded).  … I do not get to talk to many people because I cannot really see them… And Maru’s nice… He’s been helping me a lot today… So, I should say thank you….  (She gets a small blush but still smiles)

Luna: Alright then well now that this introduction is done what shall we do now Maru?

Maru: (Seeming to still be all lost in this conversation).  Umm yeah… Maybe go find everyone else?

Hailey: (Seems to get more nervous hearing that there will be more people not being used to meeting or being around many people).  E-everyone else…?

Maru: (He then takes her hand after Luna lets it go).  Do not worry, I will be next to you the entire time and we will take it slow.

Hailey: (Pauses for a moment and then goes to hold Maru’s arm so he can guide her and nods).  A-alright.

Maru: (He smiles as he holds Hailey close to him as the small group of three meet up with everyone else with Hailey hiding a bit behind him).

Kairi: (Is the first to notice Maru as she sits with everyone else getting a big smile).  Hi Maru, are you having fun!

Jennifer: (Smiles turning to where Kairi is looking to greet them then notices the girl from before saying quieter to herself and Hiki right next to her).  Oh, it is the girl from before.

Hiki: (She smiles seeing the girl again though is pleasantly surprised that she is with Maru not expecting this).

Kura: (Notices the new person looking at little confused).

Ziona: (Smiles at the new company politely as she and Zahir are still caring for Luka and Lulu since they are being a little fussy).

Nara: (Notices the girl as well with the boy Maru wondering if they are together from how she is holding his arm).

Shizen: (Seems interested in the new person noticing her eyes quickly).

Luna: (She waves hello to everyone as she finds a place to sit down for a moment since heels aren’t made for Luna).  Gosh heels hurt too much.

Tori: (He and all the other guys in the group say hello though they do not remember ever meeting the girl that’s next to Maru before).

Hailey: (Hides behind Maru a little shyly).  U-umm hello… It is nice to meet everyone.

Ziona: (Takes notice of how shy Hailey seems and giggles a little knowing it well).

Jennifer: Hello Mis, I think we had seen you before.

Hailey: O-oh I remember… Thank you for helping me then… Tell Hiki I said thank you too.

Jennifer: (Looks a little confused looking back at Hiki beside her).  But she is right here.

Hailey: (Gives a surprised look and then gets embarrassed staring downwards with her hands folded in her lap).

Kairi: (Has a confused look as well but still smiles at Hailey).

Maru: (He laughs a little as the grip from Hailey tightens a little).

Hiki: (She bends down like before).  Well, you’re welcome very much Hailey, but I can you see you have gotten close to Maru now haven’t you?

Hailey: (Blushes lightly).  He has… Just been nice to me showing me around… B-but it’s nice meeting you again.

Shizen: (Whispers to Jennifer and the ones around her quietly seeming to understand quickly).

Jennifer: (Instantly realizes and feels silly for not noticing sooner).

Hiki: (She realizes it as well from memory and giggles).  Yes, yes well, he is nice guy now isn’t he?

Maru: (He blushes a bit as he scratches his head).

Hailey: (Smiles and nods).

Hamako: (Looks at Hailey from still being on Zahir’s shoulder saying).  … New friends… Hi.

Hailey: (Hears the little girl’s voice and giggles a little realizing there are little kids here as well).  … Hello…. There are small children here?

Hamako: (Gets a big smile at the response and giggles a response back changing her form to reflect Hailey but still a few inches tall).

Hiki: Umm in a way you could say that… Just watch out for right now.

Luna: (She watches the group closely as she rubs her feet since they are still sore from the shoes).

Maru: (He gets nervous seeing Hamako being this close).

Hailey: (Seems a little confused why the voice is so light but decides not to question it as she sits with the group next to Luna and Maru hearing the twins cry a little realizing how big the group is being a bit shyer).

Nara: (Laughs and looks over to Ziona remembering how she was when little).  Reminds me of someone doesn’t it?

Ziona: (Smiles and blushes at the comment).  I guess so.

Zahir: (He holds Luka as he helps deal with the crying as Raku sits with Nara as the group keeps talking amongst themselves when Chazz comebacks from handing other matters).

Jennifer: (Looks at Chazz coming back wondering where he had gone not noticing when he had left).  Oh, is everything alright?  I did not notice you had left.

Chazz: (As he sits down next to Hiki and Tori).  Well, it seems one of our guests were injured so I had to deal with them since they did cause a fuss beforehand but it’s all taken care of now.

Maru: (He is silent as he looks down).

Shizen: (Sips her wine quietly to herself like she had done nothing wrong thinking it was her from hurting the man’s hand from before).

Jennifer: Oh, I see, I hope they are feeling better.

Chazz: (Notices both Maru and Shizen acting weird).  Uh huh now well he is alright for now though I did have an escort sent for him to go home since he did seem to become rather rude to me as I was helping to treat him.

Jennifer: Well glad they were escorted out if they were rude.  We do not want any fights starting tonight.

Kairi: Why were they being mean, did they not like the food or something.  I think it is really good. 

Nara: I do to, you have some good chefs here.

Jennifer: (Looks at the odd food choices seeming to put chocolate on everything seeming a little amused).  Chicken and chocolate seem like an odd combination.

Kairi: (Giggles).  Ooh that might be a good idea, chocolate makes everything better!

Nara: (Laughs a little almost as if a little nervous of the conversation with a small blush looking down).

Shizen: (Laughs a little at the conversation as well as Ziona).

Zahir: (He holds back everything he can to not tell Raku what going on, but he does his best).

Chazz: (As he talks with Rowen about some of the future event details since he be going on a trip back to the other mansion.  He wants Rowen’s opinion on things, so they leave the group for a little bit).  Excuse us for a bit.  Kairi I shall have Tori still be your butler for the evening is that alright?  Or would you prefer something else?

Tori: (He looks at Chazz with a look as if fear from Jennifer and not wanting to get into trouble he then looks at Jennifer and he can feel the daggers in her eyes).

Kairi: (Has a big smile nodding seeming perfectly fine with it).  Alright, no problem!

Jennifer: (Sighs to try and let it go but still keeps an eye on Tori).  Very well… Have a good talk and let me know if there is anything needed.

Shizen: (Pulls Rowen back for a second giving him a kiss on the cheek).  Don’t take too long.

Kairi: (Giggles a little seeing Shizen and Rowen).

Rowen: (He smiles as he walks off to talk to Chazz).

Tori: (He sighs with relief as he feels his life is safe at the moment).

Jennifer: (Smiles thinking of conversation seeing Hailey with her hands folded neatly in her lap quietly).  Hailey, do you mind telling us a little about yourself.

Kairi: It would be great to get to know you and then we can be friends!

Hailey: (Stares downwards shyly and timidly not sure of what to say).  W-well umm… I do not know… What would you like to know…?

Maru: (He holds onto Hailey tighter as he can sense the nervousness).

Luna: (She talks with Hiki about the dance she had alongside Kura).

Kura: (Hears the talk about the dance and gets a very hard to notice blush but joins the conversation).

Jennifer: (Smiles hears that Hiki was dancing with Kura glad they were having fun having worried about Hiki but turns her attention back to Hailey with a smile).  Anything about yourself really that comes to mind.

Hailey: (Pauses trying to think of something, not sure of what to say).  Well… My parents and family are lesser nobles, so they go to these things a lot… This is my first party though… But I know that my family is distant cousins to yours… So, they wanted to bring me along this time….

Kairi: (Gets an excited look).  Wait if you are our distant cousins that makes us family!

Hailey: (Pauses and then nods) I-I guess so.

Jennifer: Will you be staying over as an overnight guest then?

Hailey: I-I am not sure… My parents asked for a guest room if possible… They thought it would be easier for me.

Jennifer: (Smiles and nods).  I am sure my mother could have that arranged.

Hailey: (Nods as well but still hesitant because she’s nervous).

Maru: (He sighs as he sits down next to Hailey more and lays on her shoulder from him being a bit tired).  Sorry Hailey… I am just a bit sleepy….

Tori: (He smiles at the cute site as well as Zahir and Raku).

Ziona and Nara: (Make a quiet daw sound seeing Maru and Hailey).

Kairi: (Has a small giggle as Jennifer smiles at them).

Hailey: (Starts to blush heavily but nods staring downwards).  Alright… It is fine with me.

Ziona: (Looks up at Zahir having her own memories with Zahir brought into her mind leaning against him a little.  They are holding the twins together as Luka reaches up to them with a big smile and some tries at baby babbling and Lulu watches them more quietly with a cute stare).

Nara: (Sees Ziona and Zahir and leans on Raku a bit looking up at him with a smile seeming to have a lot of feelings into it and wanting to say something as well but holds it in just resting her head on his shoulder not feeling well but also tired).

Raku: (As he and Zahir cuddle up to their wives as Hiki and everyone enjoy the peaceful loveable moment they are having).

Jennifer: (Smiles and laughs a little at how cute each couple is and then sighs a little enjoying the peacefulness of it).

Kairi: (Her hand touches Tori’s as she places it there not knowing his is there as well seeming surprised then looks up at Tori and into his eyes as Jennifer is not looking, not sure whether to hold his hand or not but wanting to).

Tori: (As he is blushing a bit from the hand holding with Kairi, he seems to feel his nerves calm down and he begins to not worry about Jennifer as he smiles down at Kairi as well).

Kairi: (Gives a big smile back her hold on his hand tightening).

Kura: (Smiles at all the couples and then looking at Hiki as they are talking to Luna Hiki not noticing but Luna seeing the look before she realizes Luna is noticing and looks away quickly trying her best not to blush).

Luna: (She laughs a bit seeing Kura blush like this since she did not expect that).

Kura: (Continues to look away from Hiki causing her confusion but then the whole thing is moved on from and the conversation moves on).

Shizen: (Smiles at the moment with everyone seeming happy.  After a few moments she notices Nara is looking a little unwell raising her eyebrows in interest having a feeling she knows what is happening).  Nara are you feeling alright.  You look a little unwell.

Nara: (As Shizen comment catches the others interest she seems to open her eyes having leaned on Raku more and a little pail and a look as if struggling to hold something back a little).  I am fine… Just a little tired.

Shizen: (Looks as if not buying it and looks like waiting for something to happen).

Jennifer: (Gives a look of concern with Kairi).  We can get you some water if that would help.

Ziona: (Looks at Nara knowing what may happen soon whispering to Zahir to explain what it is knowing as well as Shizen).

Raku: (He gets a look of worry).  Want to head back to the guest room for right now if you are out of it?

Zahir: (He does his best to hold back but notices that Raku made the right choice).  Yes, I would suggest that, don’t need you passing out on the dance floor.

Nara: (Was not really focusing on what they were saying but then her eyes widen, and she gets up quickly doing her best to hold the sick feeling back but says in a rushed and frantic look as she looks around for something).  Restroom now!

Shizen: (Nods seeing this coming as well as Ziona and immediately points to a small hall in the corner Jennifer doing the same knowing there is a private restroom there).

Nara: (Dashes over there immediately running as fast as she can while covering her mouth as everyone with them begins to stand some looking concerned or worried knowing what is happening).

Raku: (As soon as Nara leaves Raku soon follows her since he is very worried now).  Excuse us.

Shizen: (Sighs and stands up calmly to follow).  Well, I suppose I should help with this.  (She looks at Ziona).  Ziona do you mind helping since you have very recent experience with this?

Ziona: (Nods and stands as well giving both Luka and Lulu to Zahir smiling at him).  Don’t you mind watching them for a little bit?

Jennifer: (Starts to get an idea of what is happening wanting to follow with Hiki and Kura standing as well).

Kairi: (Still looks very confused standing as well to follow looking curious and worried).

Hiki: (She and Luna seem to get concerned as well as they follow as well).  Tell master I’ll be right back alright?  (She says to Tori).

Tori: Yes, yes just do what you got to do Hiki.  (He says as he sits down by Zahir and Orion).

Zahir: Well, this is going to be interesting now isn’t it?  (He says with a chuckle).

Orion: Oh yes it shall be, hopefully he doesn’t freak out too much now.

Hailey: (Gives a very confused look but doesn’t move since Maru is resting his head on her shoulder).

 

Shizen leads the group of girls in the direction Nara and Raku had went not searching long before they see Raku down one of the halls with a personal restroom trying to get in.  He seems very worried going up to him with everyone else with her behind her.

Jennifer: (Looks at Raku and the door she knows Nara is in and gives a concerned look with Kairi).  Raku, is everything alright with Nara?

Raku: I’m not sure… I feel really worried about what’s going on… Did she get food poisoning or something…? Though unlikely… I just don’t understand what’s going on anymore.

Shizen: Hmm because you both are poison spirits, I doubt food poisoning is something you could ever have but I have a very good idea of what might be happening.  (She places a hand on Raku’s shoulder with a calming smile).  Raku, do you mind if I step in here.  I am sure you will find out what’s happening soon enough.

Raku: (In his panic and yet worried state he shakes his head and makes space for Shizen and the group to go into the restroom).

Shizen: (Sees the panic and worry and hugs Raku to comfort him and says).  Come on now, your wife is just fine… I’ve always thought you were one of the most caring people especially towards your wife… But God Raku your also one of the most clueless I know.  (She laughs a little).

Raku: (He is confused mostly by Shizen’s comment, but his worry and panic take over his curiosity).

Shizen: (Let’s go patting Raku’s shoulder reassuringly then knocks on the door).  Nara, it’s Shizen let me in, and I and some others are here wanting to help.  (There is a long pause before the door unlocks without any words and Shizen and the others let themselves in leaving Raku outside.  They close the door once everyone is in seeing Nara with her snake lower half curdling around her having unlocked the door with it.  She is hunched over the sink and bit leaning over it from the sick feeling having just threw up her meal smiling a little at everyone to try and reassure she fine) 

Nara: Just tell Raku I’m fine… And to give me a moment… Just not feeling well.

Shizen: (Puts her hands on her hips and raises her eyebrow at Nara not buying the comment but saying nothing yet).

Hiki: (She sighs as she goes over by Nara and starts to use her healing on Nara).  I’m not really effective in this medical field but I can at least help with your nausea because it wouldn’t be right for you to puke on him while you’re telling him, right?

Luna: Why haven’t you told him anything about this?

Nara: (Looks down not sure what to say at first as she obviously looks nervous).  … At first, I didn’t think much of it… But now… It’s getting worse… I don’t know if it’s that… I don’t know how to tell him though… Or if he would even want this.

Shizen: You have all the clear signs of it so there’s no avoiding telling him for long.  You should tell him, but I can make sure for you just in case.  (She lifts her hand that has a green glow around it with Nara seeming unsure being nervous about knowing for sure).

Ziona: (Has a smile going up to Nara and rubbing her back to help).  It’s alright Nara, I was scared to about it, but I’m sure he won’t get mad.  Raku’s not type of person and I think you two will be great at this.

Kairi: (Still looks very confused).  I do not get it, what is wrong?

Jennifer: (Smiles at Kairi petting her head and kneeling to whisper to her what is happening).

Hiki: (She smiles as she goes by Kairi and Jennifer after she is done helping with Nara).  Well do you know now?

Kairi: (Her eyes widen looking at Nara getting a big smile and giggles nodding excitedly but covering her mouth having been told not to be too loud about it since Raku is right outside).

Hiki: (She giggles to herself).  I understand your excitement, but we got to keep it in for now alright.

Kairi: (Nods again and continue to cover her mouth to not blurt out).

Shizen: (As this is happening, she is by Nara kneeling to put a hand to Nara’s stomach and seeming to have concentration on it).

Nara: (Looks away embarrassed but also nervous and anxious of finding out for sure).

Ziona: (Nods reassuringly to Nara being excited for her and Raku).

Shizen: (Her eyebrows raise looking up at Nara for a second then goes back to focusing).

Nara: (Grows more impatient looking down at Shizen).  Well… Is it?

Shizen: Calm down, just a moment.  (She keeps moving her hand around Nara’s stomach for a few moments then pauses and looks at everyone and Nara waiting for an answer and get a big grin and nods).

Nara: (Her blush deepens as her mind goes a mile a minute with worries and many emotions at once from excitement to scared nervousness).

Ziona: (Has a big smile as well and hugs Nara to calm her down).  Congratulations Nara… I’m sure it will be fine.

Nara: (Says nothing still seeming paused to process everything, finding it difficult to wrap her head around it).

Luna: Well, we had a feeling of what it would be but regardless congratulations Nara.

Hiki: Yay more family time for Nara now.

Nara: (Nods slightly her mind still in a bit of shock).  … Umm… I guess… So… This is really happening.

Shizen: (Laughs a little).  Yes, Nara you are carrying a child though it’s too early to tell more than that.  You seem to be 10 years or maybe a few less along so you still have around 80 to 100 more…. Roughly it’s hard to know at this point.

Nara: … Really… That long.  (Her eyes widen in more shock not knowing how to react).  But… How… I only started really feeling this way till a week or two… And before that it was just minor things… I didn’t think much of it but now….

Shizen: It’s different for every spirit but the symptoms usually are noticed around that time or sooner.  You may be a little late in that though so perhaps it is a lot earlier, I would need to do a further checkup but that is my guess.

Ziona: I started feeling it a lot earlier, so I guess it makes sense, still I’m very happy for you Nara.  (She gives a big, excited smile to Nara who nods still wrapping her head around it).

Kairi: (Looks up and thinks).  Wow 80 years sounds like such a long time.

Jennifer: It really does….

Nara: Not to me… Can I ask for more time…? I don’t think I’ll be as good as Ziona with this.

Ziona: (Hugs Nara again reassuringly).  Nara you’ll be a great mother and Raku will be a great father, I can tell so don’t worry.

Nara: (Looks down now worrying about Raku and how he will react).  I hope he won’t freak out too much or be upset about this….

Hiki: I’m pretty sure he won’t… I think he is the type of person that becomes deeply devoted to you no matter what happens… He will always be there to stand by your side… So, trust him a bit more alright Nara?

Kura: (Stays quiet and nods with a smile feeling happy for Nara as well).

Shizen: (Hugs Nara with Ziona to comfort her).  You should know your husband better than that Nara.  He loves you after all even if he is quite a clueless one.

Nara: (Laughs a little).  … He really can be a clueless idiot sometimes… I still love him though.  (She looks out at the door knowing Raku is behind it).

Jennifer: Do you want to tell him now… I mean you should do it at some point.  You cannot avoid it for that much longer really.

Kairi: (Still has a big smile and nods).  You should tell him now.

Ziona: (Nods in agreement).  I wouldn’t wait either… When I did… Well, I guess it was easy for him to figure it out being so far along… I was very scared… But he was happy with it… I think Raku will be happy about it too… Because it’s with you and I can see he really loves and cares for you….

Nara: (Looks down but smiles still).  … Your right… But I want to tell him alone… Is that alright…?  I need to.  (She looks at the door still seeming nervous but more determined).

Shizen: (Nods with Ziona who gives her one more hug for support Kairi going over to hug her as well with Jennifer).

Hiki: (She and Luna give their hugs as well as the group gets prepared to leave the room).

Kura: (Having been quiet most of this time she hugs Nara last saying quietly).  You’ll make a great parent Nara, don’t worry about that part.  (She then let’s go and gets ready to leave with the others).

Kairi: (Still has an excited look but covers her mouth so she does not say anything knowing she cannot hold her excitement in well as Jennifer laughs and pats her head).

Shizen: (Looks at Nara reassuring her with a proud grin).  You are strong and brave Nara.  You can do this, and you are not alone.  You have a man that loves you with all his heart and when you are done telling him come to me and I can do a full examination to see for sure where you are at.

Nara: (Nods and blushes still being very nervous).  Thank you….

Ziona: (Takes Nara’s hands and smiles at her).  You can do this Nara… I know you can, and I know Zahir and I are here to help as well since you and Raku are there for us and any advice you need or herbs I can take care of.

Nara: (Smiles at Ziona feeling a little better now).  Thank you, Ziona… It means a lot… Thank you, all of you….

 

Shizen nods and grins with saying good luck leaving with the others who had left and Ziona as well but Shizen being last.  She peaks out then comes into view seeing Raku pacing as she comes out closing the door with a very worried and panicked expression.  She walks up to him to get his attention seeing he is deep in thought.

Raku: (In his panicked state he does not notice that Shizen and the group have come out of the room being is still nervous with everything happening).

Shizen: (Goes up to Raku placing a hand on his shoulder to shake him out of it with a calm smile).  Raku, come on now.

Raku: Wait what?  (As he is recovering from his previous mind set as the last if the group leaves the room and shuts the door).  Wait… Is something up with Nara?  I need to know!

Shizen: (Keeps her calm smile and hand on his shoulder).  Calm down Raku, she is going to be just fine, but she asked to see you now.  There’s something she needs to tell you and needs to tell you herself in private.

Ziona: (Stands by Shizen and gives a big smile to Raku).

Raku: (As he is confused, he can see from everyone else that they are making the move along now signal with their hands so he decides to head into the room as the group leaves the area).

Shizen: (Nods to Raku with a big grin then she and Ziona starts to shoo away those trying to stick around to eavesdrop).

 

Nara hears the door open having been looking in the mirror and turns quickly seeing Raku enter.  She becomes even more nervous with her tail curled around her on the floor and holding her hands in front of her tightly to help ease her nerves not that it helps much. 

Nara: Raku… Umm.  (She looks down trying to find the best way to tell him).

Raku: (As he walks into the room, he notices almost immediately that Nara is very nervous about something since he knows how she usually acts when she gets nervous whenever her tail is curled around her tightly).  Yes… Nara what is it?  Are you alright?

Nara: (Lets out a sigh to calm herself down more).  Well… I guess I have been feeling a little off for a bit of time now… It just is getting too much to ignore or hide I guess… That I’ve been acting weird with eating so much and getting a little sick and maybe moodier with little things….  (She gives a small smile to Raku stating all the things she had been experiencing in a rambling way hoping he gets the hint from what she is experiencing).

Raku: Yeah, I have been wondering what’s been up with you recently since you have been acting stranger lately.  Do you know why?

Nara: (Pauses and looks at Raku very surprised he still is not getting a idea at least going closer to him).  Raku come on; you don’t know what this kind of thing is?  Being nauseous, being tired more easily, all the food cravings?

Raku: (He thinks hard to himself but gets an idea of what she is talking about after some more time).  Do you mean?

Nara: (Is clearly losing patience and tired of giving hints knowing she needs to just say it since she knows how clueless Raku can be.  Before she thinks of her actions, she knocks him over the head and yells out without much thought at Raku).  Raku, I’m making you a father you clueless idiot!  I’m pregnant!

Raku: (He is taken by a huge surprise by the sudden outburst by Nara that he goes backwards onto a small stall, and he begins to look down).

Nara: (Realizes what she had done more clearly and rushes to Raku going in front of him to see if he is alright worriedly).  Raku dear I’m so sorry.  I hope that didn’t hurt too much.  (She reaches out to check if Raku’s head is alright looking concerned).

Raku: (As he looks down Nara can see some tears running down his face).

Nara: (Sees the tears in Raku’s eyes and remembers what she had blurt out looking down as well thinking he’s upset about it).  Raku… I’m sorry… If it’s not news you want… I’m….  (She looks down more being more upset thinking Raku is upset with the news beginning to go backwards and leave Raku thinking he wants to be alone getting teary eyed herself).  I can go… If need some time to think….

Raku: (As she is leaving his side, Raku reaches out for her and grabs her hand in a tight grip as he says quietly).  No…. No, you idiot… Why wouldn’t I want that news….  (He looks up at Nara, to her surprise he is smiling hugely with tears coming down his face).  You always overthink things… But you got to believe me that I could be the happiest person in the world right now… I wouldn’t want to leave your side because of something like that… I want to keep standing by you… For as long as I can you idiot.

Nara: (Looks at Raku in surprise and then gets a big smile in relief with tears coming down as well as she wipes her eyes going back to Raku and into his arms).  I really do over think things a lot… I just worried so much… If you wanted this or if we were ready… If I would be a good mother… I guess we have a lot to learn.  (She laughs a little, but tears are still coming down).

Raku: Yeah….  (Tears continue coming down).  But it will be well worth all the adventure that is ahead of us now.  Am I right my wife?

Nara: It really is a big adventure… But I think we can do this… But I’m sorry to make you worry so much… At first, I didn’t know… I guess when symptoms became more noticeable, I figured it out… And it was confirmed tonight… I guess we’re both a little clueless then.  (She laughs more with a big smile looking up at Raku with some tears she wipes away).

Raku: Yeah… I’m sorry I can be, but I guess we both have our down sides but regardless I will love you no matter what happens.

Nara: I love you too… And I think we can do this; I mean it’s like another adventure together… But we have so much to prepare for now… But one more thing you should know.  (She smiles and little sheepishly at Raku).

Raku: What is it Nara?  (Seeming confused not understanding what else she has to say).

Nara: (Blushes and looks down).  Shizen told me before you came in here that I was already around 10 years along so there’s 80 instead of 90 now… I don’t know how I didn’t realize this for this for 10 years… Feels like a long time though still at least to figure things out.  (She looks up at Raku with a little blush but a big smile and laugh).

Raku: (He is a bit taken back).  Ohh umm that is alright… I’m sure we will figure something out.

Nara: (Smiles and laughs a little again).  I think so… I remember always saying I wouldn’t marry… But then we became a couple and you changed me and my mind even though I feared it… I think it’s the same thing with this really… I think we can do this… Because we are together.  (She smiles up at Raku as she takes his hand placing it on her still flat stomach while holding his hand still and wrap her snake half around his lower half giving him a kiss).

Raku: (As he breaks away from the kiss).  Well, I didn’t expect to fall this hard in love with you… In the beginning I did like Ziona… But her heart wasn’t there like mine was… Yet with you… You just kept looking my way and waiting for me… And when I finally did come to you… It was a magical experience, and the adventure isn’t over just yet… So, I’ll keep running to you like you do to me.

Nara: (Looks into Raku’s eyes).  At first, I didn’t think you would return my feelings because you liked Ziona so I kind of gave up… I remember it was when I made those cookies… Or tried too anyway… I wanted to be happy for you but… I guess it just hurt too much so I turned away so you wouldn’t see if was hurt… But then after a few days you came to my door… And realized everything… It took some time to gain confidence and not hide myself… But somehow you changed that… You held your hand out even when I was difficult and we’re patient with every step… I’m glad things turned out the way they did… And for Ziona and Zahir too being able to say feelings to each other… I kind of feel like we are copying them though with getting married after them and now this too.  (She laughs a little).

Raku: (He laughs as he hugs Nara).  In a way maybe… But we are our own couple that can’t be like anyone else.

Nara: (Hugs Raku back, wrapping around him more).  I know so I think this will be interesting, just don’t expect me to try many crafting things during this or cook without burning anything during this… Wait I won’t be able to spar anymore either….  (She frowns and pouts as she realizes this).

Raku: (He laughs a bit as he kisses her).  Well, I’m sure we can find something else to replace it.

Nara: (Laughs as well and kisses back thinking of idea).  Well, I can think of one idea… Since we have a little alone time in here.  (As Raku sees a seductive look he knows well as she wraps around him more).

Raku: (As he gets what she means right away).  I feel like you’re more in the mood than ever huh Nara?  Oh well what am I going to do with you… We will need to make quick.

Nara: (Smirks and kisses him wrapping her arms around his neck).  I think we can manage that dear.

They enjoy each other’s company the rest of the time having their privacy as everyone is enjoying the party.  The girls make it back to where the boys still are.  They see Cordelia had joined them as well with Hamako on her shoulder with Hailey seeming to have gone somewhere though Maru still asleep as everyone catches up with the news Yami having joined them sitting by Tori but not paying as much attention.

Shizen: (Sits by Rowen who had returned with a big grin still as she puts a arm around his shoulder to relax).

Kairi: (Has a big smile and giggle skipping to everyone excitedly with Jennifer laughing at how excited Kairi is but has a big smile as well).

Ziona: (Giggles sitting next to Zahir who still is holding Luka and Lulu kissing Zahir’s cheek and both of her children on the head.  She then plays with them with a big smile as Luka tries to grab her fingers and Lulu is a little shyer about it).

Zahir: Well, I can tell something good happened then.  (As he smiles seeing Ziona smiling so much as she holds Lulu).

Ziona: (Smiles up at Zahir then down at Luka and Lulu).  looks like we get to be a aunt and uncle too, and Luka and Lulu can have a little playmate.  (She giggles again making Luka try to laugh and wave his hands grabbing at Zahir’s shirt as Lulu watches him).

Zahir: Ohh I see… Things will be fun from now on.  Hopefully Raku will be able to handle it since knowing how Nara can get, but regardless this will get exciting.

Yami: (Looks a little confused having missed a lot).  Wait so the snake lady is having a baby.  Is it going to have a snake tail too or something?

Kura: It’s Nara not snake lady, that’s rude and I’m not sure.

Kairi: That would be really cute!

Shizen: It depends on which parent the child takes after but from what I could tell she has 80 years still since she is about 10 years along.  That’s only an estimate, it varies quite a lot depending on the spirit just like their aging as a child.

Kairi: (Looks up and thinks).  Wow 80 years sounds like a really long time stilll.

Jennifer: It really does….

Shizen: Remember spirits grow much slower than humans though some at a slight difference early on and seem to slow in age the closer they are to reaching maturity.   Think of it as every 10 years being one month in a pregnancy and one century being how long it takes for a young spirit child to look 1 in human years on average.

Kairi: (Looks amazed).  Wow that still sounds like a really long time.  It is like they are kids almost forever!

Yami: (Crosses arms grumpily).  Hope not.

Kura: (Laughs and pats Yami’s head).  You’ll grow eventually little Yami.

Tori: (He and Hiki laugh as they relax with Chazz being in the middle of the two leaning against the wall).  Man, it did feel like forever when growing up huh Hiki?

Hiki: Yeah, in a way though I bet master can’t guess the age range for us huh?

Chazz: Hey I can try!  Hmm maybe both in your 20’s in our age maybe?

Hiki: Hmm in a way your right but I’m not properly sure on how to convert it.

Shizen: (Laughs).  I would say you are late teens since you are an early 4th generation Hiki and Tori perhaps 20 at oldest or late teens as well more likely but just a year older then Hiki if my memory of the last couple of centuries does not fail me.  That also means you probably have reached the point you are done aging and growing noticeable for a spirit as well.

Kairi: (Looks a Shizen curiously).  What about you Shizen?

Shizen: (Gets an amused grin).  Now, now it’s rude to ask an older woman their age.  (She thinks for a moment anyways).  But honestly, I am so old I probably have forgotten.  I do not believe any of the 1st generation have ever reached a truly old age.  Perhaps it’s just not possible and our wisdom will just grow over our experiences.

Yami: (Looks a little confused).  What?  You look old to me though.

Shizen: (Before Kura can hit Yami over the head a vine travels up the balcony as none of the guests inside see and hits Yami instead as Shizen finishes her wine and sets it down like she had done nothing).  Well, we can move on from that then.

Yami: Hey what the hell, not cool!

Kura: (Sighs).  Neither is calling someone old you idiot.

Rowen: (He sighs as he goes by Shizen).  I would like a little less violence thank you very much though I do appreciate the company I have here.

Shizen: I have no idea what you are talking about.  (She laughs and kisses Rowen’s cheek).

Yami: (Scratches his head and then remembers something looking at Chazz and Tori).  Wait didn’t you guys fight with Nara.  Kind of means you fought a pregnant lady I guess right?

Chazz: Oh umm… I think we did but we did not know at the time… Though I do not think we hit her stomach area now, did we?

Tori: (He is silent alongside Hiki nervously).

Shizen: When I examined a little Nara and the baby seemed fine health wise so do not worry.  Plus, it sometimes takes longer for the symptoms to take affect more like in Nara’s case.  It decreases the amount of power the spirit can use because their energy is being more focused on the baby which explains why her stamina was much lower than I remembered when sparring with both of you and why she had trouble doing a seal she knows so well today.

Jennifer: (Nods as if trying to understand).  I guess that makes sense.

Hiki: Well at least the baby wasn’t getting hurt so I can feel better about the whole thing then… I guess.

Kairi: (Giggles).  This is the best birthday ever, there is so much good news to celebrate for everyone!

Jennifer: (Laughs petting Kairi’s head).  Glad you are enjoying your party Kairi.

Kairi: (Has a big smile).  It really is amazing having everyone here like this.

Hiki: (She runs over by Kairi and gives her a hug).  Yay Kairi is having a good time!

Chazz: (He smiles alongside everyone else as they talk amongst themselves again with Tori being by a window).

Yami: (Is looking out the window since he is close to it as well not seeming to pay attention to everyone talking amongst themselves.  His mind seems to wander as he looks out at the sky that is starting to get dark seeming a little uneasy about something but not sure of what).

Tori: (He slides over by Yami since he is close by).  You alright there Yami?  You look more miserable than you do normally when it comes to group things.

Yami: (Breaks out of his thoughts a little but still looks out the window at the scenery).  Huh… It’s nothing….  (He shrugs but still seems a little troubled by something as he continues to try and shake it off).

Tori: (Seems a bit concerned).  Not even a spar could make you feel better.  Cause I know you too well, so I know something is up.

Yami: (Gives Tori a grin at the sparring comment but it seems not as genuine as the many other times still trying to shrug off the bad feeling not seeming as excited at the chance to spar).  Sure man… Just a bad feeling I guess… I’ll get over it.  (He looks back at the window one more time before trying to turn his attention to everyone else seeing everyone seeming to have fun helping a little).

Kura: (Looks at Yami able to tell something is wrong and looks concerned wanting to ask him later when the party is dying down).

Tori: If you sure Yami, if you don’t, I’m just going to beat it out of you alright.

Yami: (Grins more punching Tori’s shoulder).  Yeah right, like you could.

Kura: (Sighs in relief seeing Yami more like his usual self and laughs a little).

Tori: (He sighs as he punches back seeming relieve with a smile).  Well, I’m pretty sure that you wouldn’t want to test that.

Yami: (Smirks as if getting ready to fight).  Oh yeah, bring it.

Kura: (Sighs).  It’s not the time to fight you can tomorrow.

Yami: (Is about to make a comeback but then looks at Kairi and then crosses his arms with a grumpy pout).  Fine….  (He goes back to listening to everyone talking and getting something to eat noticing all the food set out)

 

The conversations continue for a few more minutes as some of the group see Raku and Nara joining them again Kairi noticing first.

Kairi: (Gets a big bright smile seeing Raku and Nara going and giving them a big hug, which get everyone else’s attention).  Congratulations!

Ziona: (Looks over as well and can’t help but giggle with a big smile as well).

Shizen: (Looks at both of them with a big proud grin).

Nara: (Has a slight blush from all the attention as she laughs a little).  Umm thank you.

Zahir: (He nudges at Raku).  Where were you guys?  You were gone much longer than you should have been.

Raku: (He is flustered a bit and does not answer well).  Well, um… We had some business to handle so yeah.

Zahir: (He gains an idea of what happened).  Uh huh then well regardless welcome to the father life Raku!  (He places his arm around his shoulder).

Nara: (Laughs at Raku getting flustered knowing what he is thinking but also blushes at the same time from the thought of being parents looking at Zahir and Ziona).  Well, you and Ziona make it seem easy somehow.  I mean Ziona it’s almost like you were born for this type of thing.

Ziona: (Giggles looking down at Luka and Lulu).  Well… I don’t know how to explain it… It has been a lot of work the past few days but it’s still worth it….

Nara: (Smiles as she thinks about what Ziona says looking down and placing a hand on her stomach).

Shizen: (Smiles at both poison spirit families some memories from when they were younger coming to mind and how they already are having families of their own now as she is giving advice to them on how to care for their children).

Ziona: (Nods her head as a thank you as the conversation goes on).  Thank you Shizen for all the advice.
Nara: (Laughs a little).  It’s like you raised all the nature spirits or tried to so it makes sense you have the most experience, I think.

Shizen: (Grins).  Well, I am mother nature after all, though raising so many is not quite that easy, it took plenty of help.
Jennifer: Oh, and Shizen mentioned she had a daughter as well, I hope we can meet her one day.

Kairi: (Remembers hearing that as well).  Oh yeah, I bet she is amazing!

Shizen: (Her smile fades and eyes widen in surprise as she frowns with a small amount of panic, she hides by taking a sip of wine.  It still seems like she is hiding something trying to cover the emotion up quickly, but it doesn’t work as her eyes wonder down to the locket around her wrist.  She has a saddened expression with one thing and happy with the other becoming lost in thought as she looks down at it as the poison spirits look confused).

Ziona: (Looks very confused and stunned).  A… Daughter?

Nara: (Looks just as surprised).  We never heard of that… You must be mistaken maybe.

Orion: (He looks at Shizen unsure of whether to share with everyone, but he does nudge her to at least acknowledge Adara).

Shizen: (As Orion nudges her she is brought out of her thoughts looking at everyone with a small smile holding onto the locket tightly).  Oh… Yes, I did, she is in her mid-teens by now and quite smart… I’m sorry but I did not tell very many people.

Zahir: (He and Raku are taken by surprise not expecting Shizen to have a child).  Wait what?  How come you couldn’t tell us Shizen?

Shizen: (Pauses to think of a answer).  … I suppose I just wanted to keep it quiet perhaps… She is a wonderful child though with an incredible mind… And she looks a lot like me besides her hair… And very adventurous.  (As she looks down her smile grows with how proud she is).

Nara: (She and Ziona still have a shocked look at the news).  But why couldn’t you tell us, I thought you trusted us right?

Shizen: (Finds it difficult to answer).  It… Was a little complicated… And hard to explain.

Orion: (Understands what Shizen means knowing the relation to Agni would cause major issues, so he stands by Shizen hoping to comfort her since she seems really tensed up talking about all this).

Shizen: (Smiles at Orion as if to erasure them that she’s fine then looks at Zahir, Ziona, Raku, and Nara with a smile).  Perhaps one day you could meet her to make up for this.

Ziona: (Smiles at Shizen).  It’s alright, we just want to know more about her.

Nara: Yeah, like is she as wild as you? (She laughs at the thought).

Shizen: (Smiles more).  Oh, she can be but also seems to outsmart me a lot even when she was little, and always seemed to wander off when something caught her interest.  I don’t know how many times I panicked because she would wander away. She was so independent even at a very young age.  (She laughs a little at the memories).

Zahir: Well, who’s the father then?  We need to know that at least?

Shizen: (Pauses for a moment looking down as if hiding something with a small hint of sadness, her grip on the locket tightening).  He… Is gone… He died to me long ago….

Jennifer: (Frowns seeing Shizen’s expression wondering what had happened with many others in the group thinking the same).

Zahir: (He and Raku and some others are silent upon hearing that not expecting that response coming from Shizen and Orion usually seeing Shizen being more forgiving but understanding why she makes this statement).

Shizen: (Is silent for a few moments then sighs and gets up and excuses herself saying quietly).  Excuse me… I just need to get another drink.

Rowen: Excuse me as well then.  (He follows Shizen knowing she is feeling down at the moment clearly, but he does not understand the full story, yet he will be patient with her to tell him when she is ready).

Jennifer: (Looks at Shizen as she excuses herself looking very concerned and saying her thoughts out loud wanting to follow her and Rowen, but he motions for her to stay).  What is wrong with Shizen… Why is she so upset?

Ziona: (Looks just as concerned as everyone else).  Is it something we said…?  (She looks at Orion hoping he might know, worried that they upset her somehow not remembering seeing Shizen like this many times in the long time they had known her).

Orion: (He sighs as he raises his hands up).  Don’t worry, let Rowen handle it.  Right now, she just needs to think about some things.

 

Ziona and the others still look in the direction Shizen went to with concern and she looks down still wondering what would make Shizen act this way as everyone tries to talk amongst themselves though their minds still on what had happened.  Maru is still sleeping but he begins to wake up slowly from all the music and the talking and he feels he is laying down sideways like on a couch instead of a bed.  He sits up slowly he wonders where Hailey is since he had fallen asleep on her, but then he begins to hear piano music being played beautifully.

Cordelia: (Notices Maru sit up with Luna as well and smiles turning to him).  Oh, Maru you are up, I hope it was a good rest.

Maru: (As he rubs his eyes from just waking up).  Oh hello….  (He yawns).  Where is Hailey… I thought I fell asleep on her.

Cordelia: Oh, I believe she heard us mention the music room in one of the halls near here.  She seemed interested in going somewhere quiet as well, so I offered for someone to escort her there.

Maru: (As he yawns one more time and looks more awake).  Alright….  (He begins to hear the music faintly).  Wait who is that playing….  (He unknowing stands up and begins to follow the music).

Jennifer: (Hears the music once it is mentioned having listened to her mom talk to Maru hearing very faint piano music).  Huh I hear a little music too….  (She stops once seeing Maru get up and follow the sound deciding not to mention it more to the others).

 

Maru finds the hall near the music is less faint as he approaches.  The melody is soft and feathery with one of the most beautiful songs he has heard, the kind that would melt anyone’s heart when heard.  As he gets closer and closer to the room, he sees that the door is half opens and he decides to take a peek inside as he sees Hailey on the piano playing.  Hailey has her eyes closed in focused but her expression soft as if playing the music in her heart as her fingers genteelly glide across the keys of the piano not missing a single note or timing it is played in, the song being slow like a lullaby but still complex enough to need to be played with two hands.  She does not seem to struggle at any point since it is clear she is in her own little world while playing.

Maru: (He listens very closely to Hailey playing the piano and decides to lean against the wall and listen to the music).

Hailey: (Continues to play as the music echoes throughout the room making the atmosphere very calm and peaceful like walking in a garden with each note).

Maru: (He brings himself and starts to sneak into the room wanting to know how Hailey can play this beautiful).

Hailey: (As she is playing, she seems to be playing to the sounds around her turning those sounds into the notes she plays.  To the slight breeze in the window and leaves brushing against the mansion walls outside and even Maru’s movements as if following the sound of his footsteps).

Maru: (He gets closer and closer to Hailey to the point he is behind her just hypnotized by the way she plays).

Hailey: (Her playing slowly stops as she feels a presence behind her and freezes nervously breaking out of her focus a bit to listen if anyone is there timidly).  H-hello… Is anyone there….

Maru: (Knowing on how she gets with this type of situation by now).  H-hi Hailey….

Hailey: (Takes her hands away from the piano keys quickly holding them close to her).  O-oh… Maru… I hope you rested well… I am sorry I left you there….

Maru: Yes… I slept alright though I was wondering where you went… But then I heard this beautiful music….

Hailey: (Looks down and starts to blush at the comment).  Oh umm… T-thank you… It was just very loud at the party, so I wanted to go somewhere quieter… And I always liked playing… But not many really hear it… Since I like to play alone a lot….

Maru: (He smiles as he sits next to Hailey).  Well keep playing it if you want too….I want to hear that song again…

Hailey: (Seems hesitant to play again now having Maru listening to her keeping her hands close to herself timidly not having too much confidence.  She looks downwards seeming to have some stage fright even with one person there).  … I-I do not know….

Maru: (He holds her arm as he lays on her shoulder again).  It is fine… Play anything you want Hailey….  (He seems to be falling asleep again).

Hailey: (Has a small smile and nods hesitantly placing hands on the piano taking a few nervous breathes, closing her eyes as she feels the keys feeling a little calmer now.  She starts to play slowly becoming more confident with the keys with each note starting the song she played before like a heartwarming lullaby).

Maru: (As he hears Hailey play, he cannot help but smile as he mutters out a little bit).  … Your … Beautiful… No matter… What people tell you Hailey….  (As he falls asleep again on Hailey seeming to waste a lot of energy from defending her earlier).

Hailey: (Stops playing again in a little shock and surprise and a heavy blush growing feeling Maru head on her shoulder.  She looks downwards with hands folded in her lap but cannot help but gain a small smile).  I am… Beautiful?

Maru: (As he falls asleep, Hailey can feel Maru shake his head yes with a tight grip on her arm).

Hailey: (Turns to Maru but still lets him rest his head on her shoulder in surprise and pauses from it looking downwards with a smile realizing Maru had fallen asleep from how he is breathing as she listens to it she smiles.  She sits there with Maru in silence for a little bit then becomes a little curious though timid and blushing at the thought but her wondering curiosity showing as she debates with herself if she should.  She takes a hand and hesitantly lifts it to where Maru’s head rests on her taking a pause before placing a hand on his cheek and hair moving it around a little hesitantly her hand gentle and smooth on his cheek as she feels around his face a little gaining a small smile again).  … He is soft….

 

Maru and Hailey stay in the quiet piano room eventually starting to play again as he rests on her shoulder.  The rest of the group continues to chat besides Shizen and Rowen who are in another area having moved passed the sad feeling and she is enjoying the party with him.  As the group decides to get up and walk around with Hamako hiding in the water gem necklace Cordelia has Nara notices that desserts are being served now and looks to Raku with a little blush having noticed they had cake and ice cream.

Nara: Maybe we could have a little more to eat before dancing!

Kairi: (Notices the chocolate cake as well with a big smile).  Yay the cakes here!

Raku: (He laughs a bit seeing Nara more open about the whole thing now).  Yes we’ll be right back alright.

Zahir: Yeah, just don’t get too sidetracked again.

Ziona: (Has a small giggle but then notices Luka and Lulu become a little fussy and blushes knowing they are probably getting hungry as well but not sure of a good place to feed them having so many people in the area).  U-umm… I think I need to feed them now… Is there anywhere I could go please?

Cordelia: (Pauses to think for a moment).  Yes, there are more private guest rooms down the hall I believe and if you need a blanket as a cover we can provide that.

Ziona: (Shakes her head no looking at the bag Zahir has for the twins).  N-no thank you… We brought a few things… I think they need to be changed too….

Jennifer: There are some restrooms down there as well, I think there the same Nara was in.

Nara: (Cuts in quickly).  Umm I wouldn’t use that one….

Raku: (He looks nervous as well).  Yeah… I would avoid that one as well….

Orion: (He and Rowen sigh as they expect to clean to up the mess later).

Ziona: (Nods not wanting to know but then Luka and Lulu start to cry more which distracts her so she tugs on Zahir’s arm so they can take care of the twins quickly to change diapers and feed them).  We’ll be right back.

Zahir: (He nods quickly).  Yeah, alright well we should be going now since it seems they are getting fussy so we will be back as soon as we can.

Jennifer: (Nods as they are leaving).  Maybe we should look for Shizen too, she hass been gone for a little bit now.

Chazz: Yes, it seems that something is going on in the crowd.

Jennifer: (Looks at the crowd in interest and curiosity seeing amazement and some in shock over by the bar area).  Huh what is going on over there.

Nara: (Sees the crowd as well having gotten her cake and is just as curious).  Whatever it is it looks like their having fun.

Chazz: (He and Tori both look into the crowd as they are very curious of what is currently going on).  Huh what is this cro-… Is that Rowen over there?  (He spots Rowen almost immediately).

Jennifer: (Tries to get a better look going by Chazz and Tori being just as curious).  I think it is… What is he doing?

Chazz: I am not exactly sure either… Let’s get closer now then.

Jennifer: (Starts to walk towards the crowd with the others and is about to ask Rowen what is going on but stops herself looking in the center of the commotion seeing Shizen sitting at the bar).

Shizen: (Has a row a shots lined up and one in her hand ready to drink and seeming to already have a big pile of shot glasses used with a few men out cold from their drinking.  Another had stepped up to challenge her confidently with a smirk only to now be onto the brink of losing seeming almost wasted while Shizen almost completely fine.  The only way of telling she is drinking is a slight blush but still she is pretty levelheaded for so many drinks being consumed.  She has a big grin and smirk as another challenges her and takes the shot in her hand with no problems as she laughs).

Chazz: (He and the group get a closer look as they see Rowen has an annoyed type of look not seeming happy Shizen is doing something like this as the two begin to drink again).

Jennifer: (Goes over to Rowen still being confused on how this started).  Umm Rowen… What is going on here with Shizen… And how did this start?

Rowen: (As he says to everyone with a sighs).  Well, she was in a bad mood from earlier and she began to drink.  Then a gentleman was feeling upset on how much she could drink so easily so this drinking competition had begun but as you can see, Shizen does not seem she is going to stop anytime soon.

Jennifer: (Sees how many shots Shizen had taken and gives a surprised look).  Wow she can drink a lot.

Nara: (Comes up to see Shizen as well with Raku as she eats her cake and seeming amused by the situation since it is familiar).  Oh, she gets like this sometimes, I remember at parties in the nature territory where she was showing off like this until a poison spirit came along.  I believe it was me a few times.

Jennifer: Why until then?

Nara: nature is barely affected by alcohol but with poison it has no effect really.

Raku: (He comes back with a smile with an arm across Nara).  Yeah, it was always interesting with her at parties though it was hard to deal with her sense of competition.

Nara: (Has a little smirk as something comes to mind looking at Raku).  Might as well give her a challenge then… Well, I think you should take this one dear.  (She smiles kissing Raku’s cheek).

Raku: (He is taken by surprise).  Wait what…?  (As Nara pushes his forwards towards Shizen).  Oh… Hi Shizen seem to be having a lot of fun as always.

Shizen: (Looks up at Raku with a grin holding up another drink for herself).  Hello there Raku and yes it’s always a good time with a few drinks.  Are you drinking against me now, seems a little unfair?  (She laughs patting Raku’s back seeming like she just a little buzzed).

Raku: (Gets a bit annoyed).  Sure, let’s drink then Shizen… Drink until you drop.

Shizen: (Laughs seeing the annoyed look).  Oh, come on now Raku don’t be like that, besides it’s a good opportunity to talk about things your wife’s going through and help you with that at least.

Nara: (Goes to whisper to Rowen).  You might want to prepare for helping her to her room after this.

Raku: (A sigh).  Well, I would rather not in front of all these people so shall we drink then?  (He raises his glass).

Shizen: (Has a big grin lifting her glass).  Very well then Raku.  (She puts her glass too Raku’s to cheers then downs her shot quickly).

Raku: (He does the same as well as Rowen sits by Shizen waiting for this to end).

Shizen: (Continues to take many shots with Raku seeming to get a little tipsier as she laughs more.  She talks to Raku about many random things one time breaking a glass on accident putting it down on the table with too much force).

Raku: (He drinks and drinks with Shizen but of course not being affected as he talks with Shizen perfectly fine though she is a bit buzzed).

Rowen: (He joins in the conversation as well as he cleans up the glass warning Shizen to be careful).

Shizen: (As the conversation goes on it is clear she is getting a bit drunk since she is rambling and a bit of a blush as well.  Swinging an arm around Raku she lifts another glass and laughs slurring her words a little).  You know Raku… You’re a good guy… I’m shure you can help Nara through theshe thingsh… But let me give you shome advice how to deal with those mood shwings.  (She takes another drink her voice on the last part a little hard to hear from her drunken state).

Raku: Uh huh then how about you lay on Rowen since it seems your having trouble over there.

Shizen: (Gives a stubborn look but pauses and blows a kiss at Rowen before continuing her thoughts).  Hey I’m fine… But jusht when Nara mad you jusht gotta kissh and rub her shtomach… Trusht me it alwaysh work.

Rowen: Alright, alright I think that’s enough for now Shizen.  (He says as he grabs her hand).  You will cause problems for the rest of the guests if this keeps up.

Shizen: (Puts her hands on her hips stubbornly leaning towards Rowen).  I’m not the one caushing problemsh, Nara the one about to kill Yami.  (As she motions drunkenly by a wall a little further away from Raku where it looks like Yami is backed against the wall almost with Nara having a very angry and menacing look as Kura is on the side shaking her head and face palming).

Raku: (As he puts down his drink and starts to walk towards Nara).  What did this idiot do now?  (As he begins to hurry along as Rowen deals with Shizen).

Shizen: (Bursts into laughter lifting another glass).  Hey meansh I win!  (She falls off her seat having reached her limit of drinks).

Rowen: (He catches her as he rubs her heading seeing that she passed out from all the drinking.

 

As Rowen deals with Shizen Raku rushes to calm Nara down before she ends up killing Yami.

Yami: (Is backed up to the wall almost).  Hey, quit it, didn’t mean it like that!

Kura: (Sighs shaking her head still and saying to herself).  My idiot little brother.

Nara: (Still has a menacing look towards Yami but saying in an almost polite but very scary tone).  Oh really, what was that part about me getting fat?

Yami: Hey but doesn’t that happen though, I mean happened Ziona right?  (He tries to defend himself but doesn’t really help making Nara even more rageful making a bit of fear for himself).

Raku: (As he gets closer to Nara and overhears on what’s going on).  Oh, there Nara you need to calm down alright?  Can’t do anything stupid in front of all these people.

Nara: (Still looks very upset mumbling and glaring scarily at Yami).  Not fat… And he’s stupid.

Kura: (Goes over to Yami knocking him over the head).  You’re an idiot, now apologize.

Yami: Hey.  (He crosses his arms stubbornly and is about to make a comment but sees the death stare from Nara and mumbles while looking away).  Fine… Sorry.

Raku: (He pulls Nara away from Yami and he holds her from behind as he places his head on her shoulder and begins to rub her stomach).  Now everything is fine Nara, let’s go relax somewhere alright?

Nara: (Blushes slightly but still glares at Yami as Kura drags him away by the ear to scold him then back to Raku and makes a fake pouty face).  But Raku he was mean and called me fat.

Raku: (He kisses her cheek).  I know but it’s alright because your still beautiful to me no matter how your body changes so it’s alright right?

Nara: (Blushes and turn around in his hold so she can wrap her arms around him and kiss him).  Well, I can say your handsome to me as well… It’s why I might like doing some… Things with you quite often.  (She smirks remembering what happened in the bathroom but then smiles at Raku in a loving way).  I love you, Raku.

Raku: I know you and I’m always willing to do stuff with you too Nara… I love you too Nara.  (As he kisses her).

Nara: (Kisses back as they go somewhere else together a little less busy holding each other close).

 

As the party goes on with everyone seeming to have a lot of fun with Kairi eating a lot of the chocolate cake and Rowen taking Shizen to a coach and taking care of her.  Chazz, Hiki and Tori help some guests that had questions as Jennifer stands on the side talking to guests that approach her greeting them politely and thank them for coming and watching the guests enjoy themselves with a smile.

Amber: (As she is coming back after meeting with the merchants that Cordeila had talked about she scouts out the group, but she first sees Jennifer and rushes over to her trying not to lose her).  Hello there, how is it going with all the guests?  You look kind of tired.

Jennifer: (Sees Amber and gives a big smile though looking a little tired in her eyes).  Yes, I am getting tired, I think guests will start to leave soon but before that the last dance of the night will happen soon.  Anyways how has your night been, I heard from my mom that you were talking with the merchants she mentioned could help you.  How did that go for you?

Amber: (She smiles at the mention of the merchants).  It went great actually… They agreed to let me travel with them for a while.  It seems your mom called in a favor from them but regardless I am still grateful.

Jennifer: (Her smile grows, and she hugs Amber).  That is great, it means you will be able to see so many things probably.  It sounds exciting but I want you to promise to send letters to us while you are traveling.  I hope you are happy with it too.

Amber: (She hugs her back).  Yes, it will be a journey for sure and of course I will send letters when I can, and I think I will be happy though… It will get lonely in the beginning.

Jennifer: Lonely?  I thought you would be going with a group to different towns and cities all over.  Are they sending you out with less people then and I hope their nice?

Amber: No, no not like that… I mean that I would miss everyone here… Though I was not around a lot I still like having people I already know around.

Jennifer: (Smiles and looks down).  Oh… I understand… And I and everyone else here will miss you.  You are a good friend after all but since we are next to a good-sized town, I hope you can stop by sometimes.  Especially with all the festivals in the city, it was a lot of fun yesterday.  I hope we can do that again.

Amber: Yes… But regardless I will still smile because I know I have you guys supporting me and of course!  I will see when we are stopping into town, and I will let you know right away.

Jennifer: (Laughs a little).  I would hope so and then we will ask about all the things you have seen and learned in person.  I know Kairi will want to hear all about it and so will Chazz.

Amber: (She stops for a second to think).  Chazz… Yes… I will do my best to keep a journal of everything.

Jennifer: (Notices Amber’s pause when saying Chazz and looks down feeling badly as she subtly hides her hand with the ring on it.  She then looks at Chazz seeing him through the crowd as he smiles to a guest seeing Hiki with him as well, Jennifer saying out loud but more to herself).  … He has a lot of feeling towards him….

Amber: (She knows the current situation very well from what Cordelia had told her and what she heard from guests who have heard already).  Yes… I know… But… But if anyone can make him happy.  I know I had a chance… But I lost it so now someone else must take it right?

Jennifer: (Looks down with a little bit of a sad smile for Amber).  … I know he will still care for you… But… I guess I do not want to take him and make others cry from their feelings… I never want to make someone sad like that….  (She looks at Amber and then at Hiki as she stands close to Chazz with a big smile not wanting either of them to feel broken hearted because of the situation feeling too badly).

Amber: (She looks down but then back up as she pokes Jennifer on the forehead).  Well do not think that badly about it… It may make someone sad but, in the end, everyone will be smiling since they will see you and him smiling.

Jennifer: (Hears Amber and stares down at the ring a little then back at Amber).  I know… But I still want him to be happy too… And not want to have to choose me so I can stay here… I mean he seems happy with all of us though… I guess we made it a little difficult for him with so many feelings going his way though… It must be a little confusing.  (As she looks at Chazz and Hiki smiling and talking to each other).

Amber: (She sighs).  I know Chazz… I know he would not make that type of decision and have so much resolve with it just so you could stay, and you should know that as well.

Jennifer: (Gives a small smile but still looks down).  I understand… It is just I have always been one to not push someone I care about to do something… I know I am not pushing… I just want everyone to be happy is all and for things to be like they have been for as long as possible… It is nice seeing everyone smile like this.

Amber: Well do not you think that everyone will be happy in the end no matter who ends up with who?

Jennifer: (Smiles at Amber).  You have a point but maybe I need to learn to accept things too.  (Her eyes spot Tori and Kairi together dancing and smiling at each).  … Well maybe not everything all at once… But baby steps at least.

Amber: That is all people can do sometimes.

Jennifer: (Nods and smiles at everyone enjoying the party and then notices a pile of presents and envelopes on one table her eyes widening and a little panic not believing she had forgotten).  How could I forget, Kairi’s presents were not done yet tonight!

Amber: Well, we better get on that then!  (As she laughs and smiles as she goes with Jennifer to help with the presets).

Jennifer: (Looks at Amber).  You do not mind helping sort through the presents until then?  Some are just sent through the mail or just dropped off from the guests that had to leave early.  I believe those could wait, the once with closest relationships to Kairi should be done now since it is getting late.  (She begins to ramble on what to do being a little flustered from forgetting).

Amber: Yes, I know, Just calm down and we will get it done alright?

Jennifer: (Sighs and takes a breath smiling at Amber).  Thank you for helping, I think with two of us we can figure this out faster.

Amber: Well of course!  Now let’s get sorting!  (She raises her arm as she pretends to roll a sleeve up).

Jennifer: (Laughs and nods picking up the first card and present and handing some to Amber to sort out as they chat after a few moments seeming confused as she looks at some of the tags on presents).

Amber: Wow… I never expected sorting presents will take this much work now.

Jennifer: (Still looks a little confused seeing the tags of a few presents she picked up).  I think some of these are marked wrong… Like the to and from are switched around.

Amber: (As she begins to look at around the presents as well).  Your… Right?

Jennifer: (Takes another present out with pink wrapping and a red bow out reading the tag and handing it to Amber).  Did you mark this one wrong too?  It has your name, so I guess it is from you.  (As she passes the present to Amber the tag clearly says to Amber, from Kairi).

Amber: (She looks at the gift being very confused).  Wait what… I did not do that for sure… Wait… Here is the gift I brought….  (She picks up another gift with red wrapping paper, but the tag is correct).

Jennifer: (Looks even more confused).  Wait then who brought this gift then and there’s a couple more like this too.  (She motions to all the gifts she has in a pile with the from saying Kairi and the two being to different people they know lifting another pink present with a green bow that says to Jennifer from Kairi.  She is so confused and trying to figure things out to notice Kairi come up behind her with a big smile as she skips towards them).

Amber: D-did she get everyone who came gifts?

Kairi: (Skips around so she is seen having a bigger smile as she nods).  Yes, I needed to get something for everyone important to me!

Jennifer: (Sees Kairi and pauses in surprise before she can speak and laughs a little).  But Kairi it is your birthday, I think you have it a little backwards.

Kairi: But sis, I wanted to get everyone something too.

Amber: (She smiles at the fact that Kairi got everyone something, so she goes by Kairi and gives her a hug).  Well regardless thank you Kairi!

Jennifer: (Laughs and pats Kairi’s head).  I should not be surprised that you would do this but thank you Kairi and I hope you like your gifts as well.

Kairi: I just like seeing everyone smile so I like getting gifts for everyone.  Are we opening presents now?

Jennifer: I think so since we have things figured out.  We just need to gather everyone together again.  (She stops to think of how to do this looking around and seeing Chazz, Hiki and Tori waving to them to try and get their attention to help gather the group for presents by holding one up in her hand).

Chazz: (He notices Jennifer and smiles as he heads to the center of the ballroom to make an announcement).  Well good evening, everyone, it seems it is time for Mis Kairi’s birthday presents to be open but it seems to have come with a twist!  Now shall everyone circle around miss Kairi and be ready for one of the main events!

Jennifer: (Sees everyone head to their area noticing the ones that are not as well known to them staying back and just watching or chatting as the rest move closer).

Nara: (Hears the announcement and pulls Raku to get closer).

Ziona: (Had just gotten back with Zahir, Lula and Lulu and goes over as well).

Cordelia: (Heads over with Orion with a big smile as she hugs Kairi).  Happy birthday Kairi.

Shizen: (Looks over still being a bit drunk from the drinking and sighs knowing she should get up.  Rowen sits next to her only he noticing her eyes glow green as if focusing on a temporary fix to feel more sober so she can head over as well).

Chazz: (He smiles as he collects Hiki and Tori to come to the group).

Zahir: (He wonders what is going on as he is with Ziona)

Raku: (He is questioning on what is going on hoping Nara does not kill anyone today from the incident with with Yami making her a bit moody since then).

Rowen: (He rubs Shizen’s head as he lays her head on his shoulder).

Kairi: (Skips to in front of everyone gathered around with a big bright smile).  Thank you everyone for coming and thank you for all the presents!  I did not really think it was fair to be the only one to have presents, so I got something for everyone close to me as well!

Nara: (Looks a little confused saying quietly).  Is that how birthdays work here?

Cordelia: (Laughs shaking her head).  I would expect nothing less, you always have loved giving gifts to others Kairi.

Raku: No, no it doesn’t work like this from last I heard… But then again who are we talking about?

Cordelia: I suppose we should get started then, Kairi how do you want the presents to be passed out.

Kairi: (Pauses to think for a second and then smiles skipping to all of the presents with a excited look).  I think when I pick up a present the person who gave me the present, I give them theirs.

Jennifer: It is a good idea, go ahead pick any present in the front since those are from people closest to you.

Kairi: (Pauses to think looking at all the pretty presents before picking up one with white wrapping paper, a big pink bow, and some glitter).  Ooh this one is really pretty!

Hiki: I hope you like it Kairi!  (As she had trouble finding a gift for Kairi not knowing what she would get her, so she had decided to get a jewel set that has a black gem in it with a red stone in the center of it).

Kairi: (Gives Hiki a bright smile opening the gift excitedly she sets out the jewelry).  Ooh it’s really pretty and I like the gems in it, thank you so much.

Kura: (Looks at the colors of the jewelry and seems to like the colors of it as well but Yami not seeming interested in jewelry).  They are quite pretty.

Kairi: (Giggles).  It reminds me of yours and Yami’s colors.

Hiki: (She giggles as well).  Well, that was the point.

Kairi: It is really pretty thank you!  Oh, let me get your present too!  (She reaches over the table pick up a light pink present with a white bow and some glitter as well skipping over to Hiki the box being a little flat and like a box clothing would be in).

Hiki: Ooh what did you get me now?  (As she opens the gift box, she finds a white dress seeming to be made with silk and chiffon fabric draped on the skirt so that it flows.  There is also a bright blue flower pin for her hair or to put on the outfit and the dress having a black border at the seams.  The top in a fashion so that it is a pure white corset with thin straps on her shoulders.  The box also contains a white gem in the shape of a yin symbol as a bracelet or necklace.  She looks at the dress with awe and yet feels bad her gift wasn’t enough to make up for this).  Kairi… Thank you very much.  (Some tears in her eyes begin to form).

Kairi: I am glad you like it!  (She looks at Hiki tearing up and gets a little concerned).  Is something wrong with it?

Hiki: (She wipes her tears and shakes her head).  No, no… Everything is fine.

Kairi: Oh… I was worried it ripped.

Cordelia: I am sure she just appreciates the gift that much.

Jennifer: (Looks at Hiki and nods in agreement with her mother as she smiles).

Hiki: Yes, everything is just perfect Kairi… No need to worry just keep you going for now.  (As she holds the dress closely).

Kairi: (Smiles brightly and nods going over to the presents again looking over them to see which one she wants to pick next seeing a light purple present with a light pink bow and picking it up).  Ooh this one is pretty.

Ziona: (Perks up seeing her present is chosen).  That’s from Zahir and I… I hope you like it.

Kairi: (Has her big, excited smile again).  You got me presents too!

Zahir: Well of course we did because what kind of guest would we be if we didn’t get you anything.

Kairi: Wow thank you!  (She excitedly opens the gift finding a small pink bunny stuffed animal made of soft yarn with big buttons for its eyes and floppy light purple ears and stomach and feet she hugs it instantly loving the present).  I love it, it is so cute!

Ziona: (Smiles at Kairi’s reaction).  I was hoping you liked it, you seemed to like rabbits, so I made one for you.

Kairi: wow it is really soft, you are really good at knitting and crafting things.

Ziona: (Smiles and blushes at being complimented).  I’m glad you like it Zahir even tried helping… But I don’t think it came out as well… But he did tie the bow on the other one with a vile of herbs in it… They smell nice….

Kairi: (Looks through the box more finding a pile of purple and black yarn with two knitting needles stuck into it).  Oh, it is alright, I can use that to learn how to knit to.

Zahir: Yeah, if it wasn’t for Ziona I’m sure the bunny wouldn’t have been a bunny… And I’m terrible with coming up with gift ideas so I’m happy you like it.  (As he smiles and holds Ziona by her shoulder).

Kairi: It is alright I really like it, oh and I got something at the festival is wanted to give you next time I saw you.  I am glad it was today.  (She goes over to the table with gifts and starts to search around it).

Ziona: (Smiles kindly).  You didn’t need to get us anything… We’re just happy to be here.

Kairi: But I found something really cute for Luka and Lulu.  (She giggles and picks up a pink present with a light purple bow and ribbons).

Zahir: Umm… I don’t think we can really change her mind now….

Ziona: (Giggles a little).  It’s for Luka and Lulu?

Kairi: (Has a big smile still and nods holding out the gift to them).  It was really cute!

Ziona: (Smiles seeming curious handing Lulu to Zahir to hold together with Luka so she can put the gift on her lap.  The twins grab onto Zahir’s shirt and seems in wonder from all of the colors of the presents then turn their attention back to Zahir holding onto him with their small grip.  As Ziona open the gift she finds two onesies that are light purple with a hood with a darker purple border seeming the same until she sees the hood.  One has bunny ears and a fluffy bunny tail on the back and the other having the ears of a bear with a small tail that bears have on the back of the onesie).

Zahir: (He looks with awe at the onesies not believing that they are this cute).  Wow nice one Kairi!  I’m sure they will love them.

Kairi: I thought they were a little big but at least they can grow into them!

Ziona: (Looks at the onesie and then the twins taking Lulu gently in her arms to put the bunny hood on her then doing the same with Luka putting the bear hood on him.  She raises them up a little to see better being completely speechless on how cute they look like Lulu pulls on one of her ears hiding onto Ziona’s chest and Luka still reaches a Zahir and grabbing his nose once close enough and attempting to make baby babbling noises).

Zahir: (He is taken by awe by seeing his daughter in the bunny outfit. By his fatherly instincts he takes the bear outfit and begins to put it on Luka).  Oh boy Luka this is going to look great on you!

Ziona: (Just smiles at Luka and Lulu and how cute they are holding them close to her and kissing them on the heads).

Nara: (Looks at the twins and lies her head on Raku’s shoulder and placing his hand on her stomach and holding it as she rests on him and smiles).

Kairi: (Is looking at Luka and Lulu and how adorable they look).  Their so cute!

Kura: (Looks over with Kairi and smiles at the cuteness).

Jennifer: (She and Hiki both say daw as they watch with big smiles).

Chazz: (He is by Jennifer as he watches the crowd begin to have caring eyes towards the two children and smiles knowing that).  Even from a different world… We all smile at the same things.

Jennifer: (Smiles at Chazz having heard him and agreeing with him seeing everyone’s caring expression).

Tori: (He is behind Kairi smiling at her at how thoughtful and silly this whole idea is yet he could not expect this from anyone else but her).

Kairi: (Has a bright smile but then notices a purple present next to her with a very poor attempt at a bow and the wrapping in not much better of shape being very messy and ripped in some areas as if the wrapping had been crumpled up and she being curious she picks it up looking at it).

Nara: (Notices Kairi pick up the present and immediately blushes in shame of how poorly she wrapped the present saying quietly to Raku).  Why did you leave wrapping the present to me?  You know I’m not good at that kind of stuff.

Raku: Hey it’s alright not many people will care… I think.  (As he scratches his head).

Kairi: (Reads the tag looking at Raku and Nara and smiles).  You got me something too?

Ziona: I could have helped wrap it for you Nara.

Nara: (Mumbles crossing her arms and pouting still feeling embarrassed).  I could do it myself… At least it’s covered.

Kairi: (Smiles more).  I like the color and ribbon though so it’s alright.

Raku: But regardless of the way it looks I’m pretty sure you will like it since I think it’s pretty good.

Kairi: (Gets excited and starts to open the present.  Once opened she pulls out a pink blanket and once unfolded, she realizes the blanket is a pink snakeskin like pattern her eyes wide with how pretty the pattern is).  Wow it is so pretty!

Nara: (Laughs a little at the amazed look).  We’re glad you like it, Raku actually made it when he was with Ziona.

Kairi: (Looks at Raku amazed).  Wow you know how to make things like this?

Cordelia: (Laughs a little looking at Raku then Kairi with the blanket).  Not common to see a man who does arts and crafts, the blankets quite nice though, very skilled.

Raku: (He blushes a bit at the comment).  Well… I was planning to give it too Ziona but because of baby events… I could never do it so I thought it would be better to give it too Kairi since she seems to like pink so she would put it to use.

Ziona: (Smiles at Raku).  It is alright, I think I made too many anyways, and we can make more for you and Nara later.  You need a lot of those types of things so I can help. It is a nice blanket though and a really nice gift for someone who likes pink.

Nara: Well, you two are the creative ones so have fun with that.

Kairi: (Has a big smile wrapping the blanket around herself giggling).  Plus, I can pretend to be a snake.

Nara: (Laughs at the comment).  Well, that would be interesting.

Raku: It really would be now, wouldn’t it?  (He and Tori begin to imagine it and laugh at the thought).

Kairi: (Giggles and goes to the table of gifts picking up a pink present with a purple bow and goes over to Raku and Nara with it).  I got something for you too, I hope you like it!

Raku: Ohh, what will it be I wonder… We shall see.  (As he takes the gift from Kairi and shares it with Nara).  Shall we open it together dear?

Nara: (Holds the gift with Raku and nods being curious).  Of course, dear, ooh what is it.  (She begins to open the present opening it up and seeing first a stuffed animal of a purple snake with black button eyes.  Raku takes it out of the box to see it better as she looks with him smiling and laughing a little).

Raku: (He takes a closer look to the snake as well as he begins to laugh seeing the funny sight).

Nara: Well, thank you Kairi, it’s very cute.

Ziona: (Looks over at the present and giggles a little).  You can save it for your little one when they arrive too.

Zahir: I bet it will be their favorite toy!  (He says with a grin as he holds Ziona closely).

Kairi: I did not think of that, but I hope they will like it.

Nara: I think they will, thank you Kairi.

Kairi: (Smiles brightly).  You’re welcome, I am glad you like it!

Raku: (He smiles as he holds Nara tightly).  I’m sure… Our child will have the best time with it… I want that time to be a fun filled time.

Nara: (Smiles and kisses Raku her mind still wrapping around the idea as well while hugging him).

Kairi: (She and everyone else smiles at them as she looks for another present picking up a small red present with a pink bow that catches her eye).

Amber: (She comes forward).  Oh look, it is my turn then I believe.  I believe you will like it very much.

Kairi: (Has a big smile still bring the present forward).  Alright Amber, ooh I cannot wait!  (She begins to open the present excitedly).

Amber: Well open away Kairi!  (She says hoping that she enjoys the pink stripped shoes she got her).

Kairi: (Opens the present excitedly taking out the shoes quickly being dress up shoes but flatter with pink and white straps going across it and a buckle around the front like a belt to fasten the shoe she instantly loving the shoes).  There so pretty, I am going to wear them to the next party I go to.  Thank you so much!

Jennifer: (Looks at the shoes and then Amber as she smiles).  They are certainly her style.

Amber: Well, that is what I was looking for since I would think that Kairi would not enjoy heels… Since not everyone does either.  (Her feet hurt from just the thought of walking in them).

Kairi: Thank you I cannot wait to wear them!  (As she says this, she picks up a small pink present with a pink ribbon on it going over to give it to Amber).  I got something for you as well, I hope you like them!

Amber: Oh, I am excited for what you are going to give me now… Thank you very much Kairi… You did not need too.  (She says while smiling sincere).

Kairi: Of course, I did, and I hope you like them! 

Amber: (Opens the small present to find a pair of small silver earrings with a curvy style to them in a way so that it shapes to hold a garnet gem that dangles from each one.  She picks up one of the earrings and looks at it closely).  Wow you have a great sense in jewelry Kairi.  I love the way this looks!

Kairi: Thank you and I knew you liked red, and they were really shiny, so I am glad you like them!

Jennifer: (Looks at the earnings since she is sitting closest to Amber).  They really are nice, and the dark red goes well with a lot of the clothes you seem to like wearing.

Amber: Well, I am happy you thought of me, and these are still beautiful!  Thank you very much Kairi.

Kairi: Your welcome, I am happy you like them!  (She smiles happily as she looks for another present to open seeing one with black wrapping paper and a pink ribbon and bow picking it up).

Kura: (Smiles moving a little closer).  That one is mine; I hope you like it Kairi.

Kairi: Ooh yay!  (She eagerly opens up the box and quickly looks through the wrapping paper to find different kinds of pencils, paints and sets colored pencil with one set being metallic colors with a pad of thick paper underneath).

Kura: (Smiles at Kairi).  I saw that at one of the booths of the festival and thought you would like those.

Yami: Doesn’t seem that exciting.  (He is immediately hit over their head by Kura, and he rubs his head and mumbles grumpily about it).

Kairi: (Looks at the shiny colors).  Ooh I can make shiny drawings, thank you so much!

Hiki: (She stands next to Kura as does Amber).  Wow those are really cool looking!

Amber: Yes, they really seem like special pairs of pencils, they look great!

Kura: I found them at the bookstore I went to yesterday.

Kairi: (Giggles really liking the gift and brings Kura a pink present with a black bow and ribbons).

Kura: (Looks at the present in her hands and sees it’s the size of a book and laughs).  Well, I’m guessing it’s a type of book.

Kairi: (Looks a little impatient).  Open it!  I thought you would really like it!

Kura: (Laughs and opens the gift and takes out a leather-bound black journal with red bindings and stitching.  On the corner of the front there is a little pink bow and laughs patting Kairi’s head).  You do know me quite well, thank you Kairi.  I needed it new book to write in.

Kairi: (Has a big smile).  I am glad you like it!

Chazz: Well, it is not surprising that she would know what to get you immediately.

Hiki: (She smiles as she is closer to Kura).  Yay I can read more of your stories!

Kura: Maybe I will start it tonight then; I look forward to using it.  Thank you, Kairi.

Kairi: (Smiles brightly).  You’re welcome!  (She hugs Kura then goes to pick up another present seeing a bigger green present with a pink bow and ribbons).  Ooh this one is big.

Jennifer: (Gets a big smile seeing her present is next seeming excited about it).  That one is from me Kairi; I hope you like it.

Kairi: Ooh what did you get me sis!  (She opens the present excitedly and quickly pulling out a pink night gown in the style of a sundress with a black line of fabric going around her waist and the skirt long with some little frills at the end.  Her eyes go wide since it is just like her favorite nightgown and simpler dress she has instantly loving it).

Jennifer: (Laughs a little seeing Kairi’s reaction knowing she would like the present getting a big smile).  I knew you would like it Kairi!

Chazz: That one was a fun one to find since there were so many of them that Jennifer had problems picking one out.  (He smirks a little bit with a small laugh holding his hand close to his mouth).

Tori: (He is contemplating on whether to comment on the gown).  It looks… Cute.

Kairi: (Her eyes are almost sparkling from how much she loves the dress).  It is so pretty, I love it!

Jennifer: (Laughs hugging Kairi).  I am glad I could find something like that for you Kairi, I know how much you like dresses like this.

Kairi: I really do, thank you so much!  (She picks up a pink present with a green bow and ribbons and hands it to Jennifer excitedly).  I got you something to sis!

Jennifer: (Takes the gift having a big smile).  I am sure whatever it is I will love it no matter what.  (She begins to open the present seeing a dress with brown leather around the corset and bordering it and deep green fabric and a green skirt that goes to her knees.  It has darker green leggings with a imprint of a wolf howling on one side of the corset top and she gets a bigger smile looking at the dress).  You know my style very well to Kairi.

Kairi: (Smiles brightly hugging Jennifer again).  I knew you would love it sis!

Chazz: Well, I do believe it is my turn now, isn’t it?  Mi- oh I mean Kairi can you pick up the present behind where Jennifer had hers?  It should be in black in white wrapping paper with a small butterfly on the ribbon.

Kairi: (Looks behind her being curious and sees the black and white present with the pink butterfly ribbon and puts it in her lap looking at it excitedly).  Ooh I cannot wait, what is it!

Cordelia: (Laughs a little).  Getting more excited with each gift I see.

Orion: Well, I would think she would after all the gifts she has gotten so far.

Chazz: Well, I just hope that mine will not be a disappointment so open it up Kairi.

Kairi: (It is a pink butterfly hair piece that is meant to give her a butterfly design if she puts it into a ponytail which she does often with yin yang symbol on one of the wings.  She gets a big smile and starts to put the hair tie into her hair).  It is really pretty; I am going to wear it right now.

Jennifer: (Looks at Chazz).  I do not think you had to worry about her not liking it.

Chazz: Yes, you are right but I was bit worried that things would not work out, but I am glad everything did.

Jennifer: I do not think you really needed to.  I think get anything pink and she will be happy.

Kairi: (As they are talking, she picks up a pink present with a black bow and white ribbons giving it to Chazz with a bright smile).  I got something for you too, I hope you like it.

Chazz: I know but it does not hurt to worry now for a bit just wondering if your present will work right?  (As he takes the present from Kairi).  Well, I look forward to opening it now.

Kairi: (Smiles happily as she waits for Chazz to open his gift).

Chazz: (As he opens the medium sized box, he sees a hat inside looking like a black fedora with a leather rim seeming very stylish and with a white band around it.  As he picks up the fedora, he looks at it closely).  Oh, this looks quite nice, I needed a new hat anyways.

Kairi: I thought you would look good in a hat!

Jennifer: (Laughs and smiles at Chazz).  You should wear it now; you will be very stylish.

Chazz: (He smiles).  Well alright I will then.  (He puts the hat on).  Well, how do I look.?

Kairi: (Has a big smile).  It looks great!

Jennifer: (Pauses looking at Chazz and a blush begins to form on her cheek as she sees him in the hat).

Hiki: (As she and Amber look at Chazz, they cannot help but blush a little seeing how he looks right now).  Well… I’m… Mas-… I mean Chazz you look great.

Amber: (She smiles as she blushes).  You really do!  It is a nice choice Kairi!

Jennifer: (Blushes more and nods in agreement).  It… Looks nice….

Cordelia: (Looks at the crowd of people, the few that are paying attention giving a weird look to the attention Chazz is getting).

Orion: Is something wrong Cordelia?

Cordelia: (Smiles at Orion with Rowen next to him as he helps support Shizen).  Nothing it is just not preferred the rumors started between nobles.  (She looks at Kairi).  How about going ahead and picking another present Kairi?

Kairi: Alright mom.  (She goes over to the table of presents to look for another one).

Orion: (He looks at Cordeila wondering she means).  I guess I’m going to ask you later then but who’s next anyway since it doesn’t seem to be that many left.

Kairi: (Looks around and something catches her eye.  She sees crumpled up poorly wrapped black wrapping paper around something very obviously knife shaped with a pink string tying around it as she struggles to try and figure out what’s on the tag).

Yami: (Crosses arms and is leaning back casually).  Just open it later, don’t need to now.

Kura: (Looks at the obvious shape able to tell what it is quickly and sighing).  Let me see the tag.  (She goes over to Kairi to try and read the tag with her and then struggling just as much as she looks at Yami).  Your taking writing lessons tomorrow.

Yami: (Shrugs not really caring about that).

Nara: (Whispers and Raku hears her).  … At least I feel a little better on how I wrapped mine….

Yami: (Looks at Nara with an annoyed look).  Hey I heard that!

Tori: (Upon hearing the commotion he goes closer to the knife and sees the tag being mostly all scribbles besides the letter K and I being legible).

Yami: Hey quit looking at it so much and just open it!  Not that bad at least I got a gift like you said ok.  (He crosses arms grumpily).

Kura: (Looks back at Yami but has trouble replying still being in shock).

Kairi: (Smiles brightly at Yami).  Thank you Yami, it means a lot!

Yami: (Looks away and some can see he’s a little embarrassed from all the commotion over the present but still shrugs like it’s no big deal).  Yeah sure.

Tori: Well since I’m here why not open mine up now?  It’s the black gift with blue ribbons behind that green one over there.

Kairi: Ooh I can open them both then and give you both your presents too!  (She excitedly picks up both presents opening Yami’s first and it being a plainer looking knife, but the leather wrapped hilt being pink smiling and going over to hug Yami).  Yami thank you so much!

Yami: (Almost falls back).  Hey, no need to hug!

Kura: (Laughs shaking her head).  Maybe he’s not as bad at gifts as I thought.

Tori: (He smiles).  Well, I guess not… Well, it’s my turn now.  (He grabs the gift and gives it to Kairi though it is a very small box).  I hope you like it.

Kairi: (Looks at Tori with a bright smile then starts to open the box eagerly pausing when seeing It’s a ring in a simple sense with a pink gem that has a small mist of black energy in it.  She then stares Tori with a sweet smile looking into his eyes).

Ziona: (Covers her mouth seeing the ring Tori is giving Kairi tugging on Zahir’s sleeve Nara doing the same to Raku).

Jennifer: (Looks at Tori suspiciously not knowing his intentions as Cordelia’s eyebrows are raised).

Tori: (He smiles seeing that Kairi is happy).  Well, I guess I made the right choice then if it stopped you in your tracks.  But no, it isn’t a wedding ring but yet isn’t a promise ring either.  It’s the type of ring that carries the bond that we share in a special way… So as a token of getting to know you Kairi… I give you a ring of our memories.

Kairi: (Still looks up into Tori’s eyes for a moment then down at the ring as she slides it onto her finger and hugging Tori whispering to him her emotions seeming a little overwhelmed to say much else).  Tori… Thank you….

Jennifer: (Even though she wants to give Tori a death glare she cannot and looks away knowing she needs to though being very difficult).

Cordelia: (Sighs but cannot help but have a smile, Rowen, and Orion and Shizen though not very sober still hearing her say quietly).  ell now I know next year I’ll be signing papers for a betrothal again….

Tori: (He holds her close knowing the feelings she is experiencing right now as he pets her head).  Now, now the birthday girl can’t cry on her birthday now, can she?

Hiki: (She begins to tear up simply by what she still calls a form of proposal and smiles greatly)

Kura: (Has just as big a smile as Hiki wiping a tear away).

Kairi: (Nods still in Tori’s hold having a present in her hands but puts it away after some thought wanting to give it to him later Tori noticing a present that seems a little larger than his as she says quietly to him).  I can give you your present a little later I think… If that is alright.

Tori: (He is taken by surprise with comment since he knows Kairi is not usually like that but keeps petting her head).  Yeah, it’s fine.

Kairi: (Smiles at Tori and nods wiping her eyes giving Tori another big hug then back to everyone else with a slight blush).  I should finish opening presents now.

Yami: Don’t see how anyone’s topping that though.

Kura: (Sighs).  It’s not a competition Yami.

Hiki: It isn’t really though that one was definitely a highlight of the night.

Kairi: But I really like everyone’s gifts so don’t worry, there all great!

Cordelia: Yes and just a few left now so why don’t we finish this up now.  We still must have the last dance of the night.

Kairi: (Gets a big bright smile then looks at Tori and can tell who she would want the dance to be with).

Chazz: Oh, right I have to let the music players know what the final song will be, I will be right back.  (He leaves for a moment).

Hiki: Geez he can never stay in one place for long.

Jennifer: (Laughs).  At least his present was done before though.  (She then looks at Kairi).  Why don’t you pick up another gift now?

Kairi: Alright!  (She goes over to the table of presents backing up a white present with a pink bow looking at the tag and then around the room looking confused as if not finding someone).  Where is Maru and Luna?

Amber: (Knowing who they are she looks around as well).  Huh maybe they are still by that piano since I heard it still playing earlier.

Kairi: Should I open their present later then?

Jennifer: (Looks around).  Perhaps, and if you do not get a chance today, he will be staying over so we can wait until tomorrow at latest.

Hiki: Yes, I think Maru was really sleepy so I guess we can leave it until tomorrow then.

Rowen: Well, that would be wise since they seemed to get along really well.

Kairi: Hailey was really nice, and I am glad Maru was getting along with her.

Jennifer: (Laughs a little).  Well, I wonder if there will be feelings between them over time, they seemed to like each other.

Hiki: They did, didn’t they?  Huh I think we shall the beginning of something nice….  (She looks at Kairi).  I wonder what made him change his mind.

Kura: (Hears what their talking about and then looks at Tori knowing Maru must have seen something back when they were training outside).  … I can think of one reason.

Tori: (He wonders why Kura looks at him by shrugs it off for now).  Well regardless let’s just leave them be for now and let’s finish this up, I guess.

Kairi: Alright I think there are a few left.  (She picks up a green present with a pink bow reading the tag then looking at Shizen with a smile).

Shizen: (Is still pretty drunk from previous events and is leaning on Rowen for support or else she would fall over.  She smiles back at Kairi and laughs a little).  Looksh like it’sh my turn.

Jennifer: (Looks back at Shizen and is a little amused).  Are you sure, we can come back to you later?

Shizen: (Pouts a little).  I’m fine child.

Nara: (Bursts into laughter).  She’s fine, I mean she’s had more before, so this is nothing.  Just don’t start a fight with her like this… It doesn’t end well for anyone.  (As memories come back to her, Zahir and Raku of when in the nature territory and seeing Shizen at the parties sometimes).

Zahir: (He and Raku get a type of scared expression while reliving the incidents in their heads).  Yeah… It would be bad if that would happen again… I think we would have to rebuild the mansion… And the forest.

Jennifer: … It was that bad?

Shizen: (Pouts putting a hand on her hip).  Hey… Washn’t that bad… I fix it later.

Jennifer: … Well, I will keep that in mind….

Kairi: (Goes over to Shizen and Rowen with the present from her as well as a brown present with pink lace ribbon from Rowen).  Can I open both of yours together?

Rowen: Well, I do not see why not.  Especially since I think Chazz, I am getting the final dance ready soon but regardless I hope you enjoy my present Mis Kairi.

Kairi: Alright, thank you!  (She begins to open the present starting with Shizen’s being a plant in a small pot but looking like it’s shaped into a rabbit with a pink flower growing by its ears.  In Rowen’s present she finds a pink traveling hat made of a braided straw and cloth with a big white bow and long enough around the edges to keep the sun away from her face more as she gets a big bright smile putting the hat on).  Ooh I love them both, thank you so much!

Shizen: (Laughs a little patting Kairi’s head).  Knew you would… Glad you likesh them.

Rowen: Thank you very much Kairi and I am happy you enjoy the hat.

Kairi: (Giggles and goes to get a pink present with a green and brown ribbon to bring back to Rowen and Shizen).  I hope you do not mind but I wrapped your presents together since you really like each other.  That is why I wanted to open both of your presents together.

Shizen: (Laughs leaning on Rowen more than she already is).  I wonder what gave… Thatsh away.  (She kisses Rowen’s cheek and would have fallen over if not for leaning on Rowen making Kairi giggle and a few others laugh).

Rowen: (He blushes a little from the sudden kiss).  Now, now no one needs to see all that especially since you have been drinking Shizen,

Shizen: (Pouts with a hand on her hip).  Hey… Only a little.

Nara: True around 100 a pretty low number for her.

Rowen: I… I do not want to know the highest than… But regardless let us go from here and open the present then, shall we?

Shizen: … You do the honorsh… Then.

Kairi: (Hands Rowen the gift happily).  I hope you like them!

 

Inside the present are two pendants for each of them with a polished brown stone and green metal wrapped around the stone holding it into the pendant setting and a pink backing.

Shizen: (Looks at the pendants and smiles).  Ooh pretty… They match.

Rowen: Well, this is surprising… Yet I like the color’s a lot….  (He holds up the pendent closely).  Thank you very much Kairi.

Shizen: (Takes the other pendant and starts to clip it onto her dress).  I’ll wear it proudly.

Kairi: (Has a big smile once again).  I am glad you like them!

Cordelia: I believe it is my turn to give my daughter a gift, I think you will like it Kairi.  (She points out a blue present with a pink bow).

Kairi: Ooh what is it!  (She goes over to the larger sized present and looks it over before opening it and once she does, she finds a pink long dress with some blue areas and a frilly skirt.  The dress has a pink hood attached with white ears and a black inside part.  Some of the borders are black as well as the leggings.  She instantly gets a giant smile seeing the gift and runs to hug Cordelia).  I love it!

Jennifer: (Laughs).  Well mom, you do have good taste it presents.

Cordelia: (Laughs and pets both Jennifer and Kairi’s heads).  It is just that I know my children’s taste in style well by now.

Orion: Well one would hope so by now anyway unlike… Never mind I digress; the dress looks great.  I am sure a certain someone is looking forward to seeing you in it….  (He looks at Tori as Tori blushes and looks away as Hiki and Chazz laugh a bit).

Cordelia: (Nudges Orion knowing what comment he would make and sighs shaking it off to smile at Kairi).  I think there is one more gift for tonight, right Orion.  I just wish you had wrapped it.  (She laughs a little).

Orion: Hey, hey… I did what I could with little time I had to prepare it… But give me one second.  (He leaves for a moment to go grab the present and grabs a pink bow that is left over from the other gifts).  Well, this will work… Alright done.  (He comes back to the group with a stuffed bunny with a rose quartz necklace around its neck).  Well happy birthday Kairi.

Kairi: (Gets a big bright smile taking the bunny and hugging it tight then giving Orion a big hug).  Thank you so much Orion!  It is so cute!

Orion: (He smiles as he pets her head).  I knew you would like it and no problem.  Happy birthday Kairi.

Kairi: Thank you!  (She has a bright smile going over to pick up the last two presents she has to give out, giving Cordelia hers first being a medium sized pink bag with a blue bow).  Mom, I hope you like it!

Cordelia: (Laughs a little patting Kairi’s head).  Well, I am sure whatever it is I will love it since it is from you.  (She starts to open the present taking out a deep blue silk simple yet fancy scarf with some light blue flower designs at the ends in a watercolor fashion making her smile and wrap it around her arms to try it on since her dress is a deep blue).  This will go quite nicely with most of my dresses, thank you Kairi.  (She kneels to give Kairi a big hug).

Kairi: (Gives a big hug back).  I knew you would like it; you are welcome!

Orion: Well, that does look very nice, but I am very curious as to what you got for me Kairi.  (He sits down and begins to go through Kairi’s present.  As Orion is digging through his present, he first sees a pin with a pink rabbit looking like it was made by Kairi and laid on the bottom many drawings of what looks like Kairi and Orion most looking like made by Kairi as a small child.  There are also pretty stones she painted on and attempted carving and just as many things having to do with some memories of Orion when she was very little).

Orion: (Upon picking up the small stones he can’t help but smile as he pulls Kairi in for a hug with a set of small tears and happiness in his voice).  Thank you very much Kairi… Thank you so much.

Kairi: (Smiles hugging Orion back).  I remember a little from when I was little of you, and I wanted to show you that I remembered.  Especially the rock painting… It was really fun.

Cordelia: (Smiles at Orion and Kairi glad that Kairi remembers these things from when she was very small as most around them smile and some others are confused).

Orion: (He smiles heavily as he holds Kairi close).  I know and I couldn’t be happier that you did this for me Kairi thank you so much still.  We may need to go rock painting again if that’s alright with you.

Kairi: (Has a big bright smile up at Orion).  Of course, we can even do that tomorrow if you want to.

Shizen: (Sees Orion and a kind smile grows as she remembers something about him looking down).  Now… I haven’t sheen him shmile like that… In a long time….

Rowen: (Knowing on how Orion and growing up a bit with him around from when he first met him, he can’t help but shake his head yes).  Yes… From what I heard it would seem that way.

Shizen: (Nods and smiles).  I’m glad… He deserves a reason… To smile like that again.  (She looks at Kairi and Orion more her smile growing).

Cordelia: (Smiles as well at Kairi and Orion, happy that they are bonding and remembering times Orion was around her when little and how much he cared for her children.  Something tugs at her mind as she watches covering a frown as if to hold something back from them).

Jennifer: (Looks at some little confused on Shizen’s comments wanting to ask later but still smiles at Kairi and Orion as Hiki hears her say quietly).  Well… He is already a better dad to her than our actual one… I can count on two hands how many times she has seen him.  (She seems to be upset at her own statement but also seems to have accepted it happy that Kairi does not have to deal with it as much and can have someone else to look up to like that).

Hiki: (She seems to get upset as well but taps Jennifer on the shoulder).  Now, now, regardless of how your parent is they are still your parent… So, be happy that you are able to have the chance to meet everyone alright?

Jennifer: (Sighs and smiles back at Hiki reassuringly).  I know, I am just happy that Kairi is happy.  She really is enjoying her party.

Hiki: Well, that’s all we worked hard to do right?  So, job well done I believe.

Jennifer: (Nods).  I think so.  Our little group has grown a lot together and I want us to stay together as long as possible… I just wonder what Shizen was talking about happening to Orion and the smile… Then again Kairi can make anyone smile.

Hiki: Well maybe we can ask them later about that but right now let’s just focus on the party alright?  (As she turns her head back towards the group and Kairi finally coming out of the embrace).

Jennifer: (Turns her attention back to the group and sees Chazz coming back signaling it is about time for the final dances to take place).  Oh, looks like it is time for the final dances to take place.  It is a good way to finish such a great night.

Cordelia: (Hears the music starting to play and stands up).  It looks like it is time for the final dances then I suppose.  Rowen do you mind announcing it to all our guests.  (She looks at Shizen and thinks again laughing a little).  Or perhaps I will announce it myself, you have your hands full.

Rowen: (As he laughs a bit nervously hanging onto Shizen).  Umm… I apologise if I am a bother in my responsibilities….

Chazz: (He laughs as he waves goodbye again).  Never a bother Rowen.  I will be back in a second.  (As he heads to the main stage Hiki gets a bit nervous feeling her heartbeat).  Ladies and gentlemen, well as a wonderful night as this it is sad for me to say that this next song will be the final dance of the night.  In honor of this last dance please grab your dance partner and have a dance under the stars.  (As he says that some tarps are removed that reveals the star lit sky above everyone, they had set out in the large balcony area).

Nara: (Looks up at the stars then smiles at Raku looking into his eyes and giving him a kiss as she relaxes with him her hands clasped around his that are on her stomach seeming to enjoy the moment).

Ziona: (Rests her head on Zahir looking up at the sky with him as they hold the twins together as they cling to one another and rock them gently).

Amber: (She looks at Chazz on instinct but just smiles as she pushes Hiki and Jennifer towards him).  Come on now, go dance.

Jennifer: (Looks at Amber in surprise and trips a little then looks back at Amber and nods understand then looks at Hiki).  I already had my turn earlier, Hiki why don’t you dance with Chazz next.

Kura: (Goes over to Jennifer and Hiki being nearby).  Hiki go on… You deserve at least one dance with him….

Hiki: (She looks back at Jennifer still being taken by surprise).  Are you sure…? I thought the engaged couples should do the final dance.

Jennifer: Oh, I promised you would dance with him next.  I do not mind that it is the last dance just stop pushing away your feelings.  You are a little and I can tell but you tell me I should not do that myself constantly.  I know it is a bad habit, but you should not have it either.

Hiki: (She smiles greatly as she hugs Jennifer).  Thank you, Jenny… I will return the favor I promise.  (As she goes towards Chazz).

Jennifer: (Smiles and returns the hug).  You already have though… Many times.  (She goes back to where Amber is to talk a little with a small smile towards her).

Kura: (Still looks at Hiki as she starts to dance with Chazz as she gets a little bit of a sad smile watching her but tries to shake the feeling away quickly as she stands by Tori who notices this).

Tori: You alright there Kura?  (Seeing Kura shake her head).

Kura: (Looks at Hiki and the big smile she has and smiles shaking off her feelings and looking at Tori to reassure him).  I’m fine, just happy Hiki is having fun.

Yami: (Comes over to Tori and Kura with another piece of cake casually).  She’s just upset because she wanted the dance with-.  (He is cut off by Kura quickly covering his mouth and hitting him over the head).

Kura: (Says in a calm but scary tone).  Shut up Yami….

Yami: (Tries to retort and argue but his voice is muffled heavily by her hand).

Tori: (He gets an idea of what is going on from thinking who Kura had danced with before).  Ahh, I get it now, don’t worry I’m sure you’ll have your chance next.

Kura: (Gets a small blush and looks away but feels a sudden pain in her hand yanking it away from Yami’s mouth).  Hey Yami, no biting!

Yami: (Yells back being annoyed).  You were the one covering my mouth, I couldn’t breathe!

Kura: (Laughs a little shaking her head).  Oh right… Sorry little Yami.

Yami: Quit calling me little!

Tori: (He laughs a bit as he rubs Kura’s head).  Now, now don’t tease him too much and don’t worry.  I’m not telling anyone, that would ruin the whole surprise now, wouldn’t it?

Kura: (Looks at Tori seeming relieved).  Good… Besides she’s really happy now… I don’t want to make that complicated, I’m happy just being close friends.  (She smiles watching Hiki dance with Chazz and how happy she looks).

Tori: I know Kura but love is complicated on its own, so we live with it for now.

Kura: (Nods looking down for a moment).  Many things are complicated, I’ve learned that well.  (She shakes out of the thought and smiles at Tori).  Anyways why don’t you dance with Kairi speaking of feelings.

Yami: (Points out on the dance floor with his fork he is eating cake with at Orion dancing with Kairi as she is standing on his feet like I little girl would with a father).  Think she’s already dancing.

Kura: (Looks at where Yami is pointing and smiles and laughs a little).  Well, isn’t that cute.

Tori: Yes I think I gained too much attention already with the ring so I’m good for now.  I’m just happy she’s having a good time.

Kura: She really is and maybe after the dance you can spend more time with her.

Yami: (Shrugs).  Why not just go over now, no big deal?

Kura: (Pats Yami’s head).  That’s rude Yami and don’t worry you will learn these types of feelings one day.

Yami: (Is annoyed by being pat on the head but shrugs seeming skeptical).  Doubt it, just is weird.

Tori: Meh, he isn’t wrong really since love is strange.  But yeah, I’ll go talk to her after the dance is over.

Kura: Good I hope that there are not as many menacing stares then.  (She laughs more).

 

Everyone continues to talk and dance for the last dance guests start to leave and say their farewells as the party is coming to a close.  The group coming mostly together to say farewell to Zahir, Ziona, Raku, Nara, Luka and Lulu since their energy in this world limits them from being there any longer so many hugs are given before they head into the forest to activate the gate Shizen had made earlier.

Nara: (Hugs Kairi before leaving as well as Raku).  Happy birthday Kairi, it was really fun.

Ziona: (Smiles and waves Luka’s hand a little to say goodbye even though Luka seems more focused on trying to eat his mother’s hair).  It was really fun, and we really liked the gifts.

Kairi: I am happy you could make it is hope we can see you again soon!

Jennifer: It was nice having you as guests.  (She gives out hugs farewell and waves back to Luka and tries to wave at Lulu, but she seems to be hiding in Zahir’s arms making her laugh).

Amber: (She doesn’t fully understand but waves goodbye as one of the merchants pull Amber to the side).

Hiki: It was nice seeing all of you again!  We need to come visit again soon!

Rowen: Well, I would hope it would involve less invasions now.

Chazz: (He rubs his head nervously).  Uh huh I think we will be careful.

Orion: (Still close by Kairi).  Well, I would hope so.  Writing up all those reports were not fun.

Nara: Well at least we can move on from it, just next time I see Agni I’ll be sure many knives go into him. … I don’t understand how things are run there… Couldn’t always be like that.  (She glances back at Ziona knowing Zahir and Raku feel the same way about what happened).

Shizen: (Rowen can feel her clench her fists and tense up with her face in the shadows though incredibly more drunk having drank a bit more when Rowen was not looking as she whispers).  … Gone… Turned monshter….

Rowen: (He wonders what Shizen means as he holds her closer).  It is alight Shizen… Calm down.

Ziona: (Hugs Zahir to comfort and looks at Shizen seeing how out of it she is).  I guess she had a little more to drink.  I made herbs for her earlier for tomorrow morning, that may help.

Nara: (Laughs a little being glad there’s a change in subject).  She really does know how to drink.

Shizen: Woo.  (She lifts her arm as if to respond more but does not).

Jennifer: (Laughs).  Well as long as she had fun.

Rowen: Well, I would be making sure that she gets it tomorrow morning for sure.

Orion: It would be a good idea especially since she has been drinking more seeming to be related to some kind of feelings.

Jennifer: Perhaps we should start closing up the party and turning in.  (She looks at Kairi).  Kairi why don’t you get ready for bed now?

Kairi: (Pouts a little).  Aww but the party was so much fun, does it have to end?  I am not tired.

Cordelia: (Kisses Kairi’s head).  Come on now, a party must end at some point no matter how fun it is, but I am happy you enjoyed it.

Kairi: (Smiles and nods though is a little upset it is ending).  Alright but first I need to give everyone hugs!  (She starts hugging everyone one by one quickly).

Zahir: (He and Raku accept the hugs happily).  Thanks again for having us Kairi.  I’m sure Luka and Lulu love their gifts, thank you again.

Kairi: I am sure they will grow into them more and then they can wear it more!

Ziona: (Smiles as she gives a hug as well).  I promise they will.

Nara: (Laughs as it is her turn in the hug).  And thank you for our present as well, we will save it for the future.

Kairi: Your welcome and I hope I get to see her when she arrives.

Nara: (Questions her looking down at her stomach).  Her?  Really?  I was thinking it would be a boy maybe.  (She laughs).

Shizen: (Blurts out drunkenly).  Mother knowsh besht!

Ziona: (Giggles looks down at Luka and Lulu).  She has a point… I guess it makes sense I couldn’t tell which one they were… I know why now.

Nara: (Laughs more).  Well, I guess we will have a lot of things to think about.  (She smiles at Raku kissing his cheek).  But right now, I’m still wrapping my head around it… But I guess I can still guess it’s a boy for now, and hopefully takes after Raku, so he doesn’t have to deal with twice as much craziness.  (She laughs again looking at Raku with a smile).

Raku: (He laughs along with her).  I think no matter what I will have to deal with twice the craziness regardless of what may happen.

Nara: Well, I guess it will be pretty interesting but let’s talk more when we get home dear.  (She turns to everyone else and waves).  I think it’s time to leave, we had fun tonight.

Ziona: (Nods her head politely).  Thank you for inviting us.

Jennifer: (Curtsies).  No problem, we enjoyed having you here.

Kairi: (Waves back with a big smile).  Bye I look forward to seeing you again.

Kura: (Waves beside Kairi with a smile).

Yami: (Does the same but only one wave with arms crossed while leaning against the door frame).  See ya.

Cordelia: (Smiles and curtsies with Jennifer).  It was a pleasure meeting you.

Zahir: See you next time everyone.  (As he walks off first with Ziona).

Raku: See you next time, we will update you all on the situation but for home we shall go.

Ziona: (Giggles and rest her head on Zahir’s shoulder as she walks away with him and each hold one of the twins as they start to fall asleep).

Nara: (Walks with Raku holding his waist to be closer to him and once farther away they can see her snake lower half appear and wrap around Raku).

Kura: (Smiles and then turns her attention to Kairi).  Come on Kairi, let’s get you ready for bed.  You can even wear your new nightgown.

Kairi: Ooh I cannot wait to try it on.  Bye everyone thank you for the amazing party and gifts!

Jennifer: (Laughs).  It was no problem but it’s late now so go get some sleep, we will all see you in the morning.

Kairi: Alright!  (She quickly hugs everyone again and follows Kura).

Yami: (Stretches and starts to follow seeming pretty indifferent).

Jennifer: (Claps her hands together).  Well, I guess we should wrap things up here now for us as well.

Hiki: (She yawns).  I may go head off to bed.  (As she messes with her dress a bit).  Yes… I may need to rest so bye everyone.  (As she waves and starts to walk off).

Tori and Chazz: Night Hiki.

Jennifer: I may do that in a little bit, but I want to help put things away first.  (She looks at Shizen not able to see her face but able to tell she is very out of it with an arm around Rowen who supports her).  I suppose Shizen should go get some rest now as well.

Rowen: Yes, I shall take her to her room then since I do not really trust her on her own right now.

Shizen: (Just has her head down seems very out of it as Rowen holds her up mostly).

Jennifer: (Laughs a little).  I think that would be best, she looks very tired.

Rowen: So, because of that, excuse us.  (He bows as he takes Shizen to her room).

Jennifer: (Laughs and waves as she goes to help clean up).  Take care of her.

 

Rowen is walking Shizen back to room answering some maids’ questions as they rush to help clean up and he apologizes for not being able to help.

Rowen: (As they get closer to her room).  Well, this has been an eventful day now hasn’t it.

Shizen: (Does not answer as she mostly is leaning on Rowen for support still having a tight hold on his shoulder and her face down in the shadows and covered by her hair as Rowen gets the feeling, she is still being bothered by something).

Rowen: (As he holds her closer upon seeing her like this).  Is everything alright Shizen?  You have been mostly silent, which after all that drinking is quite surprising.

Shizen: (At the moment she still has her head down in the shadows when he realizes there is water on his suit by his shoulder from silent tears as she says something quietly in her very drunken state.  Rowen gets the feeling it not to him).  Don’t… Leave… Don’t go down… Path… Why… Do all… Thish and become… Monshter… Why….

Rowen: (He is silent for a moment as he turns Shizen around to hug her tightly).  It is alright now Shizen… Just calm down… I am right here.

Shizen: (Still mumbles a little before collapsing in Rowen’s arms).  Adara… Why can… You shee… Good in him… I jusht don’t shee it… Can’t… Anymore… Not after….  (Her words trail off as she collapses in his arms).

Rowen: (As he holds her up still with the sudden collapse).  Adara… I wonder who that is… But first I am going to take you to your room….  (He finally lifts her more up princess style and takes her to her room to rest and not be so distressed by whatever troubles her).

 

Tori upon finishing up his section of the cleaning up after the party. 

Tori: Woo that was a workout.  (He then yells towards Amber and Chazz).  Ohh I’m going to head to bed is that ok?  I’m all finished over here!

Chazz: (As he is moving some boxes with a sleepy Amber motivating him with a type of cheer).  Alright Tori, we are going to finish up here in a bit.  Make sure to see that everyone is leaving alright?

Tori: Ok, I’ll just head to the roof then.  (He starts to walk off).

Amber: Bye Tori.  Now come on Chazz fight on!  (She raises her hand up and down as Chazz moves the box).

 

Tori leaves the main area heading up the hallways stairs he reaches the top floor above Chazz, Jennifer, and Kairi’s hall where their rooms are.  He sees an open window to get to the roof with noticing how clear the night sky is with many stars out and a crescent moon making it a very beautiful night sky.

Tori: Yeah, everyone is leaving alright… I guess it’s time to relax for now I guess… Wow the moon looks great tonight.  (As he begins to lay back against the roof just watching the stars while falling asleep once again).

 

As Tori is resting someone from downstairs in their room heard him talking to himself as she had just gotten ready having her new pink nightgown on.  She looks up from her window hearing it from the room.  She decides to carefully climb up to the roof and pokes her head up to see Tori laying back on the roof with arms under his head as he relaxes.  She lifts her head more to see him better and call out to him.

?????: Tori?

Tori: (Upon hearing the voice he sits up recognizing it instantly).  Yes Kairi, what is it?

Kairi: (Climbs onto the roof more and goes over to sit by Tori with a sweet smile).  I heard you on the roof, so I just wanted to know why you were up here… Though it is a pretty night out.  (She looks up at how clear the sky is).

Tori: Well, I just wanted to relax really being in a big room full of guests can get pretty stuffy so coming out here is great sometimes since it feels so free.

Kairi: (Smiles and takes a moment to enjoy the peaceful night with a slight breeze).  It is really calming, and I like the wind… I like it too.  (She smiles brightly at Tori).

Tori: (As he notices it is a bit colder outside and Kairi is in her gown, he brings out his wings).  Well, it’s getting cold out so come over by me, so you warm up a little bit before we head back inside alright?

Kairi: (Is taken by surprise by the sudden wings but leans against Tori looking at the wing wrapped around her.  She reaches out to touch them surprised at how soft it is when petting the feathers not having been able to get such a close look at the wings before as she seems amazed by them).  Whoa… Their so soft….

Tori: Well, they are wings, so they have to be in order to keep me up in the air.

Kairi: (Gives Tori a curious look).  What is it like to fly up there…? Is it calm and peaceful like right now?  It looks a little scary though too.

Tori: (He gains an interesting idea).  Well, Kairi I think I have another birthday present for you so how about you take my hand.  (He holds out his hand to her)

Kairi: (Looks a bit more confused and curious at Tori tilting her head but takes his offered hand as she asks).  What is it?

Tori: A type of freedom.  (As he begins to flap his wings and begin to fly with him hanging onto Kairi just floating in air for the moment).

Kairi: (Her eyes widen to process she is in the air with her feet not touching the ground.  She looks down at the roof seeing their a few feet off the ground then up at Tori and the wings flapping to keep them in the air and suddenly holds on tightly not wanting to fall).  Whoa please don’t fall!

Tori: (He laughs a little).  Don’t worry don’t worry.  we will be just fine, just trust me on this.

Kairi: (Takes a moment to calm down but still has a tight hold on Tori her arms around his neck as she looks up at him and nods).  A-alright… Just don’t fly to fast.  (She closes her eyes and holds on tightly to Tori being nervous).

Tori: (He smiles as he pulls her closer and it is like he is hugging her comfortingly).  Well don’t worry now Kairi, I will hang onto you the entire time.

Kairi: (Pauses and then opens her eyes looking up into Tori’s eyes trusting him and then hugging him back as she nods).  Alright Tori….

Tori: (He holds her tight as he begins to move a bit forward with the flying seeming to go at a steady slow pace).  How’s this for right now?

Kairi: (Hesitantly looks down then ahead with a slight breeze becoming more amazed then scared as she looks out towards the sky seeming a little speechless still wrapping her head around the idea of flying).  I am… flying?

Tori: (He laughs a bit).  Yes… Yes, you are… Happy birthday Kairi.

Kairi: (Reaches her hand out into the air feeling the air blow by and starts to gain a smile starting to enjoy the experience and giggles).

Tori: (He casually begins to speed up bit by bit).  Hang on tight now.

Kairi: (Listens to Tori and holds onto him but still looks forward flying through the sky getting a big bright smile enjoying the flight a lot more).  It is amazing up here!

Tori: Well now you know why I always enjoy flying around especially at night since it becomes so beautiful.

Kairi: It is!  (She let’s go of Tori a bit since he has a tight hold on her and opens her arms out like flapping them with Tori’s wings and enjoys the feeling of the wind and flow of the sky.  It is like a free feeling she now understands as she acts like able to fly beside him with a big smile from it).

Tori: Whoa there Kairi don’t fly off from me.  (He laughs as he continues his circles around the property).

Kairi: (Giggles and continuing to fly with Tori encouraging him to fly faster).  You can go anywhere like this!  This must be how a birdy feels!

Tori: Yep and ok your wish is my command madam.  (He begins to fly faster).

Kairi: (Giggles more and holds on tightly but continues to look forward with a big smile it feeling like a theme park ride with how fast Tori’s flying is at some points).  This is so much better than running!

Tori: (In a spur of the moment he lifts Kairi up into a princess hold as he flies up).  The time I have with flying is almost up so going to do one more thing.

Kairi: What?  (She holds on and looks around at how high they are going and at the moon before looking at Tori).  Whoa… We are so high up….

Tori. (He snickers a little bit as he spreads his wings out and outputs some energy so that he can clear what clouds are in the sky).  Give it a second.  (As he says this, the clouds in the sky fade away revealing the moon fully)

Kairi: (Her eyes widen in amazement as she looks at the clear sky then at Tori).  Wow… You can do that…?  Your amazing Tori….  (She smiles and hugs Tori close).  Thank you… It is the best gift you could ever give… The present I got you does not even compare… I wish I remembered to bring it up here for you… Though it’s not quite finished yet….  (She looks at Tori apologetically that she forgot).

Tori: (He smiles as he rubs her head).  Don’t worry just having you with me right here is worth even more.

Kairi: Thank you Tori….  (She smiles sweetly at Tori her arms wrapped around his neck and then starts to look into his eyes becoming a little lost in the moment as she looks into them).

Tori: (He does the same to Kairi as it seems the moon is behind them as they are in the air).

Kairi: (Without much thought into her actions she starts to move her face closer to Tori’s as she continues to look into his eyes.  Holding him closer as she does this the moment being perfect as feelings are in the look, she has towards Tori are clear, no words are needed).

Tori: (He does the same as he brings himself closer to her.  His feelings are self-expressed in the moment as their lips connect in the moonlit sky).

Kairi: (Kisses Tori back and holds Tori as close as possible.  Even though the kiss is short it is enough to express their feelings and even after she still can’t help but look into his eyes whole time they fly through the sky).

Tori: (After they disconnect from the kiss, they connect their foreheads savoring the moment).  I love you Kairi….

Kairi: (Looks into Tori’s eyes again and smiles sweetly keeping her forehead touching his enjoying the moment).  … Tori… I love you too. (She smiles more as she says this and her hold on Tori tightens to embrace him).

Tori: (He smiles as they gently go back to the roof as they embrace each other).

Kairi: (Continues to hold Tori as long as she possibly can wanting every moment to last with Tori not wanting it to end).

Tori: (As they finally reach the roof again the hold on Kairi does not light up).  Well, here we are again.

Kairi: (Looks a bit disappointed that the moment is over but looks at Tori giving him a sweet smile and one more big hug as she blushes cutely).  Tori… Can we do this again another night…?

Tori: We can do it again anytime you want your silly.  (He pets her head gently as he sets her back down).

Kairi: (Places her feet on the roof carefully but still looks up at Tori with a smile although knowing she has to say goodnight).  I guess it is goodnight for now though… Right?

Tori: Yes, we can Kairi but let’s head to bed now, ok?  Come on I shall escort you, Mis Kairi.  (He takes a butlers bow).

Kairi: (Giggles and curtsies taking Tori’s arm to lead her back to her open window right under them even though it is not at all far she still has a big smile).  Thank you, Sir Tori, and thank you for tonight.

Tori: Anything for you madam but shall be on our way then?  I do believe that it is time for our date to end for tonight.  (He leads her back to the door leading to the roof of the mansion).

Kairi: I suppose so.  (She pouts again at having to say goodnight but gets an idea as she begins to blush and smiles cutely up at Tori).  Oh Tori… One more thing….

Tori: Yes, what is it Kairi?

Kairi: (goes on her tiptoes to reach up to Tori giving him a soft quick kiss on the lips as her blush deepens.  She whispers goodnight then uses her power to speed away with a giggle before Tori can react fully).

Tori: (Being taken completely off guard by the kiss but cannot help but gain a big smile).  Now aren’t you a sneaky one… Huh… We finally kissed… I don’t think I could be happier right now… Even if it kills me… I will protect that smile.  (As he finally heads inside).