A Rose that Blooms then Withers {A Ginji Love Story}

First Move

The couple was spending alone time in their new lodge. Ginji was working on some plans for Moonflower, while Iara was sewing a quilt. Iara rested often to save up energy for the impending birth. According to Royal Practice, females had to seperate themselves from society except for relatives. This exception was Ginji much to Aoi's dismay.

"How is Aoi dealing with this situation?" Iara smiled.

"Not well. She wants to be with you at every hour." Ginji chuckled.

"Of course, I am the only other human closest to her." Iara smiled before pricking her finger with the needle. Ginji smelled her blood and felt her shock.

"What is it?!" He ran to her side. She set aside her work and placed her hands on her swollen belly.

"The kit, or kits moved." She giggled. Ginji's eyes softened as he rested his head on her belly. His heart skipped a beat when he felt movement. He looked up at Iara who beamed proudly and happily.

"You are wonderful in every way." Ginji kissed her sweetly.

"What will we do if I have a litter?" She asked, concerned with old techniques. A long time ago, royals would only have enough areas for offspring to suckle. Those who could not fight to get there would die. Obviously, Iara only had two.

"I will give you my ability to transform." Ginji stated.

"But that will hurt you." Iara looked worried. Ginji gave her a reassuring smile. It will only be a small fraction of the pain you will feel.

...

Small white crystals cascaded down the on the inn. All sound was dimmed by the blizzard and small thunder as a thunderous snowstorm hovered over the ogre gate.

"It's been forever since I've seen Iara." Aoi frowned as she served up some tea for the late night shift employees, including the Odanna.

"I'm sure you'll see her soon." Odanna smiled before the doors slid open with a frost covered Sasuke.

"Does anyone know childbirth skills?!" He shouted breathlessly.

"What's wrong?" Odanna stood, shuffling in his robes quickly.

"Her highness, Crown Princess has gone into premature labor! The imperial doctor is stuck all the way over in the city." Sasuke exclaimed.

"I can help." Aoi stepped forward.

"Aoi?" Odanna turned.

"Have someone fetch the imperial doctor. I know enough to help her to stall the time. Sasuke, go fetch her." Aoi rolled up her sleeves.

"Yes ma'am!" Sasuke disappeared into the blizzard. Aoi burst into the room. She heard a bunch of whines and tired screams. Next to a fire, on a futon, lay a very sweaty and pained Iara. Ginji patted her hand reassuringly.

"The fever came on all of a sudden. I don't know what to do." He frowned. Aoi felt Iara's forehead. Iara didn't respond. Her chest raised quickly as her breathing accelerated. Aoi placed a hand on the baby bump. The movements were quick and struggled.

"We need to get her concious. Help me bring the fever down." Aoi directed. In a long period of time, Iara regained consciousness but at a cost of pain. The lioness ayakashi burst in and quickly attended to the situation.

"It's bad, but manageable. It will be a long night into morning." The doctor said to the employees, including a worn out Aoi.

...

The snow had slowed a little, but the sounds were too quiet.

"Why isn't there any screaming?" Aoi looked nervous. Odanna placed a hand on her shoulder.

"She has at this stage transformed temporarily into a nine tales form in case she has a litter." Odanna smiled.

"I'm on agreement with Aoi, I need to go in ther-" Ginji was interrupted by mewling howls and purrs. The lioness exited with a tired smile and her fur in disarray on her humanoid body.

"Mother had a litter of five kitss. All are fine." She smiled.