The Butterfly and the Spider

Chapter 10: A Word With Master

The next day came around. Shinobu woke up earlier than usual. She felt her stomach. It was huge. "Dear God, it's so huge! How many babies did she pump into me," Shinobu asked herself. She shook her head and got dressed in her uniform, although it didn't fit like normal. Shinobu looked at herself in the mirror and sighed. Then, she felt a few kicks from inside her womb. "Oof! That hurt," She said. Shinobu caressed her belly. "I can't fight like this. I need to leave. Just for a little while," Shinobu said. Shinobu exited her room and walked to master Ubuyashiki's mansion. She stood there at the door. She looked down at the floor. "I hope master understands," Shinobu said. Shinobu knocked on the door. "Come in my child," the master said. Shinobu opened the door and walked inside. "Good morning master," Shinobu said. "Ah, good morning Shinobu. Are you here because you wish to ask for time off," The master asked. Shinobu began sweating nervously. "Yes master. I would like some time off becau-," She was cut off. "You are pregnant with demon children," The master finished. Shinobu sat there in shock and worry. "H-How did you know," Shinobu asked. Ubuyashiki laughed and smiled. "Do not worry Shinobu, you are not in any trouble. I give you permission for time off," The master said. Shinobu smiled and laid her katana down in front of her master. "Thank you master," Shinobu thanked. "You are welcome my child. Shall I tell the other Hashira on why you are leaving," The master asked. "Yes. I believe they deserve to know," Shinobu said. "Alright then," The master said. Shinobu stood up and bowed. "I shall take my leave then," Shinobu said. With that, Shinobu left the room. "We hope to see you again soon Shinobu Kochou," The master quietly said. Later on, Ubuyashiki held a meeting with the other Hashira. "Greetings my children," Ubuyashiki said. "Good morning master," the Hashira said. "As I'm sure you know, Shinobu is not with us today," Ubuyashiki said. "Yes, we've noticed. Where is she," Uzui asked. "Shinobu has taken leave due to a pregnancy," The master explained. The Hashira stood there in shock. "Oh my," Mitsuri said.