sunshine on my shoulders
#1
[html]

dated january 28th in the evening. <3 1060 words.


The air was growing even colder as of late, and Princess had begun to worry about her and Haven’s unborn puppies. It was dreadfully cold out and it did not seem like it would be the best time of the year to bring a litter of puppies into the world. Of course, such things did not occur to her two months prior when their litter had been conceived, or perhaps she would have decided to wait until it was not nearly as cold and ill-weathered. It was too late now to be worried about such matters, because the puppies were due any time now. She did not know exactly when, but it had to be soon. As a result, the young woman had not been leaving the house and she had been bundling up as best as she could, wearing thick cotton dresses and wrapping herself in blankets wherever she was sitting or laying at the time. She did not enjoy the cold normally, but being pregnant had brought out an even greater dislike of the awful temperature, and she wasn’t particularly fond of the snow, either. Spring could not arrive soon enough.

Not only would spring bring warmth, the young Lady Chance hoped, but her puppies would be born and they would be grown some. Though the sickness had faded after the first few weeks of her pregnancy, she had continued to fret and was nervous enough that she was extremely antsy for the puppies to finally be here. Their home was feeling small as of late, though Princess could hardly complain. It had been a few weeks since Alder had come to live with them, and Princess did not have a problem with him being there. Rather, she was fond of him, though they had not had much chance to talk and get well-acquainted. He was very quiet, and she was absorbed by her pregnancy. After the puppies were born, she would make more of an effort to know him more, Princess was certain. It was important that she get to know him, not only because he was living with them, but also because he was Haven’s brother. While she did not have much of a family, Haven did, and she was now a part of that. Even more, they were starting their own family very soon.

Haven had been wonderful during her pregnancy and she had hardly needed to do anything for herself. Since it was so close to her due date, Mati and Cambria were also there. Mati had wanted to be there to support them and to see her nieces and nephews being born, and Cambria would be helping with the birth. Cour des Miracles had an apothecary, of course, and while Princess did not harbor any ill feelings towards Alaine, she felt a bit more comfortable having someone that she knew on a slightly more personal level be the one to help her bring their puppies into the world. Haven knew Cambria as well, and she was close to his family, so it seemed to be a better arrangement all around. The young woman absolutely did not mind having everyone around, but their home was not exactly large, and as she grew larger with the growing puppies, she was finding herself growing more and more irritable, as well. She did not want to snap at anyone, however, so she had been keeping to herself for the past few days. The puppies would be here soon, and she hoped that her moods would go back to normal, too.

Though it was growing dark outside, Princess was sitting with her legs tucked beneath her on the couch, a thick blanket wrapped around her shoulders and a book open between her hands. She had not lit any candles, but the setting sun was reflecting off the snow outside, making it seem brighter than it actually was. Though the book was open in front of her, the young expecting mother was not focused on reading. Rather, she was thinking about the puppies that would be arriving any day now, hopefully. She wished she knew how many there would be and if they would be boys or girls. There were a few, at least; she had felt them moving. However, given the size difference between Haven and herself, they would probably be relatively large puppies, so she could not really guess how many.

That was another thing that she was a bit worried about, though she had not yet voiced that concern to anyone. Princess was much smaller than Haven, and she feared that the puppies would take after him in size so much so that they would be too big for her to be able to give birth to. It was a terrifying thought that she had not been able to push out of her mind, but she did not want to seem silly in asking if that was something that she should be afraid of. Probably it would be fine, because all puppies were pretty small when they were first born. Maybe she would consider asking Cambria anyway, since she was medically trained and she would probably know. Princess stored that thought away in the back of her mind, saving it for later when she saw the Dreamer again. Hopefully she would remember to ask, now that she had stifled her pride enough to know that she probably should question it.

Closing the book in her hands, Princess laid it on the couch beside her, wrapping her arms around her knees. She had not been able to focus on the book anyway, so she was not terribly concerned about missing out on time she could have spent reading. Golden eyes closed and she sat for a few long moments in silence, contemplating once more the puppies that were growing inside her. Who would they look like? What would they be like? Suddenly, her eyes flew open and she gasped, a sharp pain coursing through her stomach. “H-Haven?” Her voice was shaking. Was this what it felt like when the puppies were coming, or was something going wrong? “Cambria? Mati? Alder?” Princess was not picky about who came to help her, though she wanted Haven right now. Anyone would do, as long as they helped her. She did not know if this was normal, and it scared her.

<style type="text/css">
.pdress1 b {font-weight:bold; color:#E5BB8F; letter-spacing:.0px; }
.pdress1-ooc { font-style:italic; padding:15px; font-family:georgia, serif; font-size:11px; text-align:center; }
.pdress1 p {text-indent:6px; padding:5px 10px; margin:0px;}
.pdress1 {margin:0 auto; width:456px; background-color:#CD716B; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v515/ ... sdress.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #C95B5D; padding: 265px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#F0BEBC; line-height:16px; letter-spacing:.0px; text-align:justify;}
.pdress1-line1 {width:426px; border-bottom:1px dotted #E1A196; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>
[/html]
#2
[html]
 

PUPPIES!!! 8D

Anxiety was running thick through the Aatte's blood, even if he was doing a good job of hiding on the surface. Princess was at the end of her pregnancy and any time now their pups would be born. Haven wasn't really worried, but of course there were some fears involved with such a process. Things could go wrong that could be equally dangerous to the pups as they would be to Princess herself. The thought that there was a possibility he could lose both his children and his mate frightened the man more than anything else had ever scared him before. It made his insides twist into uncomfortable knots and his teeth chewed on the inside of his mouth. On the surface though, the Knight was calm and confident. He needed to strong for Princess and not let his worries seep through to the surface.


It had helped to calm him greatly when his sister and her mate had shown up at their door. Haven had known they were coming and he sighed in relief when they arrived. Now that Cambria was here her expertise would guide them. She would know exactly what to do to make sure the labor went just as it was supposed to. Mati had a good deal of experience as well, but he was mostly just glad to have his sister there to share this with him. There was one notable absence though, and he was surprised to see that his mother had not made the trek as well. Mati explained to him that she was feeling under the weather and so a trip in the cold would not have been good for her. Haven understood completely, though it was sad that Anu would not be here to see the birth of her grandchildren. He would make sure that she got to see them as soon as could be managed.


Haven knew that Princess had been happy that everyone was here, but their house was not a large one and things were getting a tad crowded. He had been able to sense that his mate's nerves were a bit frayed and so he had suggested that Mati, Cambria, Alder and himself retire to Alder's room to catch up on things and to give the expectant mother some space. Princess needed to stay calm and he knew that if she accidentally got snippy with someone she would feel awful about it later. It was best for everyone if they just gave her some room to herself for the time being. Not to mention talking to his two siblings and his sister's mate was a wonderful way to distract himself from his own anxieties. He also did not know the Marino fey well, so this was the perfect opportunity to get to know the woman his sister loved.


Their pleasant chatter was steady and enjoyable, but suddenly Haven heard a soft gasping noise and immediately he became alert and on edge. What had that been? Was it Princess? Then he heard his mate call for him and he was on his feet and out into the living area like a flash. He found her on the couch, she looked scared. "Princess? What is it? What's wrong?" The Seneschal's words were accented by a soft whine and he looked over his shoulder, hoping that the others had followed him. Quickly though he looked back to Princess, resting one hand on her shoulder and another on her enlarged belly, jade eyes leaking concern.

<style type="text/css">
.havendaddi01-box {width:250px;height:380px;float:left;}
.havendaddi01 b {font-weight:bold; color:#8c652e; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #ab9e8b; }
.havendaddi01-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; text-align:center;}
.havendaddi01 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.havendaddi01 {margin:0 auto; width:500px; background-color:#dac7ac; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... dad001.png); background-position:top left; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #8c652e; padding: 10px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.havendaddi01-border1 {width:502px; border:2px solid #dac7ac; margin:0 auto;}
.havendaddi01-line1 {width:240px; border-bottom:1px dotted #8c652e; margin: 0px 10px 3px 0px ; float:right;}
</style>
500+
[/html]
#3
[html]

yaaaayyyyyyyyyyyyyy!

The pair had traveled through the snow and cold to make it to Havens home for the birth. Once they had made it the game of waiting that need to be played. The Church female was happy to see her brother, but the sight of Alder made her heart leap. The young boy was coming into his own, shifting like an adult and holding himself a bit straighter and taller. There was something changed in the growing male, even if it was still just a small bit. They had spent most of their time preparing, waiting and catching up with the boy and the Knight. Both females knew well that Princess would need time and space to rest, and so they gave it to her.

But when she called her mate's name, her tone was obvious. Mati watched her brother move quickly, his energy changing instantly and becoming slightly panicked. The Church female stood, following her brother and picking up some of the supplies that they had brought with them. She came close behind Haven, who stood beside his mate. She remained calm, knowing that the waiting game was not over but had truly just begun. Lets give Cambi a chance to check her. She spoke to her brother in a calm understanding tone. A hand was rested on his shoulder, feeling his worry and hoping to give a little bit of calm through the touch. She smiled slightly. There was no need for chaos to ensue, no need to panic.

<style type="text/css">
.matisept02 b {font-weight:bold; color:#efe3d8; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #8c5d2e; }
.matisept02-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#d8bca0; text-align:center;}
.matisept02 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.matisept02 {margin:0 auto; width:480px; background-color:#af7840; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... sept02.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #f4eae0; padding: 130px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#d8bca0; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.matisept02-border1 {width:482px; border:1px solid #000000; margin:0 auto;}
.matisept02-line1 {width:450px; border-bottom:1px dotted #8c5d2e; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>

[/html]
#4
[html]
<style type="text/css">
#cambriahealymarit {width:430px; background-color:#f4f6e7; border:1px solid #000000; border-top:0px; margin:auto; margin-top:-40px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text {padding:15px; margin-top:0px; margin-bottom:0px; border:0px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text b, #cambriahealymarit .text i {color:#325000;}
</style>


300+

Cambria had never been to Cour des Miracles before, and she had only met Haven in passing. He had left the Dreaming lands before she had been very old, though she knew that Mati's bond with her brother was deep and strong, similar to her own bond with Amata. For that fact alone she was quite interested in getting to know the man better, since technically they were family now. The Marino was very excited to see Princess though. The Chance fey had been very nice to her when she had still lived in Crimson Dreams and she hadn't been able to see her since she moved away. It made her feel good that she was comfortable enough to let the Medicus help her through birthing her first litter. It was definitely the girl's favorite kind of work to do. All her work lately had been tiring and worrying, and all that was still linger in the back of her head, wondering if Artemis and Anu were doing alright. Still, she did her best to hide that all away, not wanting to bring any negative feelings into the house of the expectant parents.


Four of them had left Princess alone in the living room to give her some space, but it wasn't too terribly long until the pregnant woman called all their names and Haven was out of the door like a shot. Mati picked up some of the supplies, and Cambi gathered the rest and walked calmly out into the open area. She wasn't concerned, it was likely just the first of the contractions setting in. Her mate went to comfort her brother and the chocolate fey squeezed by to take a closer look at Princess. "Did it feel like a kind of pressure at your back? Or cramping? If so it's completely normal, that's your contractions to help push the pups out," she said with a kind smile. Cambi unfolded one of the large soft towels that she had brought and laid it on the floor below Princess. "It might be best if you moved down to the floor. Haven, would you like to help her settle down with her back against the couch?" Her sea green eyes turned back to see Alder. "Alder, could you get some water heated?" They would want towels soaked in warm water to help clean the pups off after they were born. "Just remember to breath when the contractions come Princess, it will help with the pain."

[/html]
#5
[html]

1050 words.


With all the fears and worries she had been having about becoming a mother for the first time, the sudden pain scared her greatly. Her first thought had been that there was something terribly wrong happening, because surely this pain could not truly be linked to something as joyous as becoming a parent. Of course, she knew in her mind that there had been pain for Ruri, too, when she had given birth to Arnette and Forte. Princess had been there to witness the birth alongside Haven and many others, including their King. She did not know whether or not she would have wanted Vigilante to come when she gave birth, if only because she did not know him well, but she supposed it was different for Ruri. As it was, she felt as though there were already going to be so many people there when she finally gave birth, even if they were all family in some indirect manner. If something was going wrong now, what would happen with everyone that was there? Would they crowd her? She hoped not, almost as much as she hoped nothing went wrong.

Princess hugged her knees more tightly beneath her petite waste, golden eyes focused on the rounded mass of her stomach while she waited for Haven and the others to come. She was so afraid that something was going wrong now. It did not make sense for something to happen now that she was so close to giving birth, but what if it was? Firefly had lost her puppies and had been forced to deliver them anyway. Haven would not be able to handle it if something like that happened to her, and Princess feared what would happen to her mental state if she lost the puppies now. It was so close to the time she was supposed to deliver that she did not think it would result in her keeping sane and functional if something terrible were to happen. Despite her concerns about becoming a mother, she would not be able to handle it if something horrible happened now. She was, deep down, too excited.

It was not even more than a few moments before Haven came to her side, quickly followed by his sister and her mate, as well as their younger brother, but it felt as if an entire eternity had passed. She looked up at him, fear filling her beautiful golden gaze. “It hurts,” she whispered, looking only at him. She knew that the others were in the room, and maybe that was better than if it were only Haven and Cambria with her. If nothing was going wrong, if this was the beginning of the birthing process, then she wanted them there. Not only did she want Haven’s siblings to witness the birth of their nieces and nephews, particularly because she knew that Haven and Mati had always been very close, but there was a selfish reason, as well. Though both Haven and Niro had done what they could to assure her that she would not be like her wretched mother, she still harbored a deeply seeded fear that she would, in fact, be just like Tokyo. She wanted there to be others in the room to watch her, to make sure she did not do anything at all like what her mother had done to her siblings shortly into their lives.

Princess looked away from Haven quickly, as if she was ashamed to admit that she was in pain, that she could not handle what was happening now. Maybe she was not meant for motherhood ever. Cambria’s voice drew her attention and the young Lady Chance watched as she spread out a towel on the floor. She inched to the edge of the couch, nervously moving her legs out from beneath her to place her feet on the floor. She needed to get down there, the healer had said, but she did not want to move on her own. She was afraid to do something that would make her pain worse. She nodded, acknowledging that the pains were similar to what Cambria described. The Medicus seemed to believe that this was all perfectly normal, so even though Princess was terrified and the pain was intense, she tried to push away some of her fears. Cambria would not lie to her, and she would not let anything bad happen to her or the puppies inside her.

As if it would make things easier for her, she focused on the instructions that Cambria was giving everyone else, because it was something to focus on that wasn’t her pain. At the final instruction that the Dreamer gave to her, she nodded nervously. The young Lady Chance did not know exactly how to breathe to make things easier and less painful, but she would try to do as she was instructed. She wanted this process to go smoothly so that she and Haven could welcome their newborn puppies into the world, surrounded by family that cared about them. She looked to her mate once more, hoping that he would be more certain about everything than she was. Haven always seemed to be, and he always seemed to be able to steady her when she felt so unstable. She knew that he loved her, and that was enough to bring her a bit away from the worries and fears in her mind.

Another sharp pain hit her and she doubled over, her position from where she was sitting detrimental to the process. She needed to get down to the floor and to sit against the couch, badly, but she was going to wait for Haven to help her. Princess was too afraid to do it on her own, too afraid that she would make things harder by doing something wrong. Though she had been cold only moment before, now her thick cotton dress and the blanket both were suffocating her. She peeled the blanket away from her legs, which helped some, though she wished it were not so warm in the room. Having four other bodies there likely did not help with the temperature, but she knew that the warmth would be good for the puppies when they finally came. They would really need to stay as warm as possible.

<style type="text/css">
.pdress1 b {font-weight:bold; color:#E5BB8F; letter-spacing:.0px; }
.pdress1-ooc { font-style:italic; padding:15px; font-family:georgia, serif; font-size:11px; text-align:center; }
.pdress1 p {text-indent:6px; padding:5px 10px; margin:0px;}
.pdress1 {margin:0 auto; width:456px; background-color:#CD716B; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v515/ ... sdress.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #C95B5D; padding: 265px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#F0BEBC; line-height:16px; letter-spacing:.0px; text-align:justify;}
.pdress1-line1 {width:426px; border-bottom:1px dotted #E1A196; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>
[/html]
#6
[html]
 

The look of fear in his mate's eyes did nothing to ease his own worries. She said that it hurt, and his bi-colored ears fell back against his head as a wave of guilt flushed over him. Haven had known it would be painful for her, it had been so for Ruri, but it was different when it was the woman you loved who was experiencing the pain. Partly because he loved her and never wanted her to hurt, and partly because this pain was because of him. Of course it had taken the both of them to do this, but he was the one who had wanted this first and there was no physical discomfort for him to endure. He wished that he could do this instead of her, but he knew that was impossible, it was simply not the way nature worked.


He felt a hand on his shoulder and he turned to look up at his sister. There was no concern in her voice or her face, in fact she was smiling. This, this was alright then? It was normal at the very least? The Knight still hated that Princess hurt, but at least it was a hurt that was supposed to be there. Cambria looked over Princess and then lay a towel out below where she was on the couch. She asked him to help her move down onto the floor and he nodded his head, glad to have something to do to help. Haven moved and put his arms to where he could easily help move Princess down, but before he could another contraction hit her and as she doubled over he tensed. The Aatte swallowed nervously, waiting for it to pass before moving her. When it was over though, he gently eased her to the floor and the knelt beside her, offering his hand for her to squeeze. Haven did his best to banish whatever anxiousness he had left from his features, giving Princess a smile. She needed him to be strong for her right now, and he would do it.

<style type="text/css">
.havendaddi01-box {width:250px;height:380px;float:left;}
.havendaddi01 b {font-weight:bold; color:#8c652e; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #ab9e8b; }
.havendaddi01-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; text-align:center;}
.havendaddi01 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.havendaddi01 {margin:0 auto; width:500px; background-color:#dac7ac; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... dad001.png); background-position:top left; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #8c652e; padding: 10px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.havendaddi01-border1 {width:502px; border:2px solid #dac7ac; margin:0 auto;}
.havendaddi01-line1 {width:240px; border-bottom:1px dotted #8c652e; margin: 0px 10px 3px 0px ; float:right;}
</style>
300+
[/html]
#7
[html]

poor scared alder

When he heard the call from the pregnant female Alder’s ear fell against his head instantly. Blue eyes grew wide, and watched the rest of the adults move into action. He followed, then stood very still and waiting for any instruction. He hoped that none would come, and stood to the back of the crowd as they surrounded Princess.

He had thought about this moment ever since he had come to live with his brother and mate. There was a great excitement in the boy’s chest as he thought about nieces and nephews, but there was also nervousness that surrounded this very moment. Now it had come and the big adolescent didn’t know what to do.

Eyes moved from one wolf to the other as they spoke. He understood why Haven was so nervous, and seemingly on edge. But Mati seemed to calm his down, and for a moment he saw the same tranquility in her as their mother held.

Cambria took her place as the midwife, her knowledge giving the rest of them a sense of order and ease. She looked back, and it took a moment for the male to find that she spoke to him and no other. Water? Alder swallowed. Yes. They had brought in plenty for this occasion. The two females had made sure that they were prepared. Lumbering paws brought him to the fire, and he put the pot on the flame and then stared into the kindle wondering what was happening behind him but to frightened to look.


<style type="text/css">
.alderjan08 b {font-weight:bold; color:#d09d6c; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #dbdbd7; }
.alderjan08-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#8e6d4c; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #f1f1ee; text-align:left;}
.alderjan08 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.alderjan08 {margin:0 auto; width:460px; background-color:#f1f1ee; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... rjan08.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:2px solid #dbdbd7; padding: 170px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#8e6d4c; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #f1f1ee; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.alderjan08-border1 {width:464px; border:1px solid #8e6d4c; margin:0 auto;}
.alderjan08-line1 {width:430px; border-bottom:1px dotted #eaded5; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>

[/html]
#8
[html]
<style type="text/css">
#cambriahealymarit {width:430px; background-color:#f4f6e7; border:1px solid #000000; border-top:0px; margin:auto; margin-top:-40px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text {padding:15px; margin-top:0px; margin-bottom:0px; border:0px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text b, #cambriahealymarit .text i {color:#325000;}
</style>


Awww Alder X3

Princess was frightened, but it was only normal. Anyone who hadn't gone through labor before would be alarmed at the pain that coursed through their bodies. Cambria obviously only knew about it in the academic sense, but she had witnessed enough births now to know that it was common to have strong reactions to the contractions. Haven had seemed panicked for a moment, but with his sister's comforting and her own instructions the man seemed to come back to himself. He went to help his mate to the floor, but paused while another spasm rocked her form. Soon enough Princess was on the ground though, and from the movement behind her she could tell that Alder was getting some water warmed as she had asked.


Cambria smiled at the Knight as he offered Princess his hand to hold. "If you squeeze Haven's hand when the contractions come that will help you deal with the pain too, I'm sure." Whatever else she could focus on would help her through the labor, at least until the real work came. "Keep your legs bent at the knee, and keep them spread. You probably aren't ready just yet, but soon enough you're going to the feel the urge to push. When that happens, just listen to your body and push and your pups will be here in no time." The Marino's voice was light and melodic, wanting to counteract whatever anxieties the soon-to-be parents still had. Cambria saw nothing out the ordinary to be concerned over, so she was certain everything was going to happen just as it should.

[/html]
#9
[html]

Sorry for the wait. ;~; 300+ words.


The young woman had learned to read when she was young, and she had done a bit of reading about pregnancy and giving birth, but it had not prepared her for the fear-inducing pain she was feeling. Princess was terribly worried that the puppies would be too big and that something would go wrong. She was so small, and the size difference between her mate and herself was very drastic. Her petite frame seemed so ill-suited for child-bearing, and though the young woman did not want to vocalize her concerns, she was so terribly afraid that they would be too big for her to safely give birth to them. What would happen then, she wondered. She could not think of any positive outcome, if that situation were to arise.

She allowed herself to be helped to the floor and positioned accordingly, though she wanted nothing more than to curl up on her side and hold herself. This pain could not last very long, she hoped, but it seemed so prominent now that she could hardly think of the joys she would be faced with once this process was finished. Though she could not focus on any one thing or canine in particular, she slipped her lithe hand into Haven's and gripped his tightly, golden eyes looking only to the woman who had become her midwife, though she never would have expected that when the two had first met and she had given Cambria some of her old dresses.

Her attention remained on the healer of Dreamers until she finished speaking. Princess could feel herself shaking a small bit, but she knew that was only from the pain and her nerves. She inhaled shakily, nodding nervously at what the Marino woman told her. Another wave of contractions hit her then and she gasped, squeazing Haven's hand more tightly now, and if it was something she was focused on and if his hand was not so much larger than hers, she might have worried that she was going to hurt him. "I t-think it's... time," she said, her tone almost questioning, as if she wanted someone to guide her through something only she could do. She wished she was not the one giving birth to them, for she was so afraid. What if she was not strong enough? Princess did not fight the urge to push, instead embracing it, hoping that the first puppy was on its way.

<style type="text/css">
.pdress1 b {font-weight:bold; color:#E5BB8F; letter-spacing:.0px; }
.pdress1-ooc { font-style:italic; padding:15px; font-family:georgia, serif; font-size:11px; text-align:center; }
.pdress1 p {text-indent:6px; padding:5px 10px; margin:0px;}
.pdress1 {margin:0 auto; width:456px; background-color:#CD716B; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v515/ ... sdress.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #C95B5D; padding: 265px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#F0BEBC; line-height:16px; letter-spacing:.0px; text-align:justify;}
.pdress1-line1 {width:426px; border-bottom:1px dotted #E1A196; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>
[/html]
#10
[html]
 

S'ok hun <3

He could sense that Princess was scared, and that did nothing to help his own nerves. Even though his sister and her mate were calm and said that everything was proceeding as normal, he couldn't help but be distressed when his mate was frightened. Haven was the one to fight away her fears, to drive them back and keep her safe, but there was nothing he could do in this situation. In fact, he was the very reason she was in this situation. The Aatte didn't have the same distinct worries that Princess did, simply assuming that nature would take its course and make whatever adjustments were necessary. It didn't matter that there was nothing particular that worried him now though, for the woman he loved was in pain and afraid because of him and it broke his heart. The man, too, was temporarily blind to what awaited them, completely focused on what was happening at that moment.


Difficult as it was, the Knight tried to draw upon the cool confidence of the other women in the room and he rested the hand not clasped by Princess to her shoulder, hoping to give her additional support. Soon more contractions wracked her body and he was surprised at the pressure that she clutched his hand with. It really must hurt her horribly. Bi-colored ears fell back once more. He felt so guilty. Was having children really worth all this? He wanted to believe that it was, but right now it wasn't easy. Princess said she thought it was time and his ears came forward again, eyes growing wide. Haven's breath held in his chest, waiting to see what would happen next. There was such a swirl of excitement and anxiety in him that he didn't know which emotion he felt more acutely. Soon enough it would become clear though.

<style type="text/css">
.havendaddi01-box {width:250px;height:380px;float:left;}
.havendaddi01 b {font-weight:bold; color:#8c652e; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #ab9e8b; }
.havendaddi01-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; text-align:center;}
.havendaddi01 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.havendaddi01 {margin:0 auto; width:500px; background-color:#dac7ac; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... dad001.png); background-position:top left; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #8c652e; padding: 10px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.havendaddi01-border1 {width:502px; border:2px solid #dac7ac; margin:0 auto;}
.havendaddi01-line1 {width:240px; border-bottom:1px dotted #8c652e; margin: 0px 10px 3px 0px ; float:right;}
</style>
300+
[/html]
#11
[html]

Mati knew that she would be close, the look on the healer's face told her so. The sister moved to Princess' other side to help support her and her eyes watched as Alder brought the warmed water over to Cambria. If he was furrless her little brother would have looked ghost white, or if not pale then he would be green. She could see in his eyes that he knew this would be unlike anything he had ever witnessed, but still she wondered if he was ready for it. Nieces and nephews for them help raise and enjoy watching them grow, those moments were not far away. Mati knew that Princess needed to push through the pain in order to bring her children into the world, but she couldn't even begin to imagine how hard that easily said task was.

Be ready with the towels Alder. Mati spoke, giving the scared looking male another task to keep his mind away from the fear she knew he was sensing and feeling. Mati took the free hand of the female as she told them that the time had come and supported her shoulder and back with her other arm. Violet eyes looked at the healer, a small smile on her face as once again the pair would witness the birthing of a litter of puppies.

<style type="text/css">
.matisept02 b {font-weight:bold; color:#efe3d8; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #8c5d2e; }
.matisept02-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#d8bca0; text-align:center;}
.matisept02 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.matisept02 {margin:0 auto; width:480px; background-color:#af7840; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... sept02.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #f4eae0; padding: 130px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#d8bca0; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.matisept02-border1 {width:482px; border:1px solid #000000; margin:0 auto;}
.matisept02-line1 {width:450px; border-bottom:1px dotted #8c5d2e; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>

[/html]
#12
[html]
<style type="text/css">
#cambriahealymarit {width:430px; background-color:#f4f6e7; border:1px solid #000000; border-top:0px; margin:auto; margin-top:-40px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text {padding:15px; margin-top:0px; margin-bottom:0px; border:0px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text b, #cambriahealymarit .text i {color:#325000;}
</style>


If you want me to change anything Meghann, just let me know <3

The process seemed to be moving faster than she had anticipated. Cambria had only helped in the birthings of mothers who had already given life to at least one previous litter of pups. She had thought perhaps Princess' labor might move a bit more slowly, since it was her first time, but that didn't seem to be the case at all. Her cream-tipped ears perked as the mother-to-be said she thought it was time and the healer watched as she began to listen to the directions of her body. Mati went to Princess other side to help support her and Alder brought the warmed water over. "Thank you Alder, yes, if you could get the towels ready." They would want damp ones to clean the pups off and then nice dry, warm ones to wrap them up in.


Cambria watched Princess closely as she went through a few more contractions and pushing. Finally it was time for her to act and she grabbed one of the towels that had been dipped in the warmed water. "You're doing great Princess, just a little bit more..." One last push brought the first pup forth into the world. The Medicus worked quickly to liberate it from it's birthing sack and checked its airways. She gently rubbed the orangish pup clean with the first towel and then dried him off with the second. "A healthy baby boy," she spoke joyfully, holding the newborn up for the new parents to see. There were likely still more pups to come, but hopefully the coming of the first pup would help to alleviate whatever fears the pair still held in their hearts.

[/html]
#13
[html]


Though her thoughts had been rapid and scattered up to that point, Princess tried to clear her mind to all thoughts that did not completely focus on the birthing of her puppies that was surely going to come soon now that the process had begun. Princess looked to Mati as she knelt beside her opposite Haven and she allowed the larger woman to take her other hand and to help support her. Though she was stubborn and had a strong will of her own to be independent, Princess was willing to take the help and support that was being offered to her. It was strange, she knew in the back of her mind, as she had not gotten off to a great start with Mati. She was glad that the Church female no longer had a problem with her.

Cambria's voice was soothing to the young mother-to-be, and she gripped both hands tightly as she did as she knew she was supposed to and pushed with all of her might. It was scary, but it came naturally and she realized there was little reason for her to be as terrified as she had been. She gasped audibly as the puppy entered the world and she exhaled slowly, eyes closed still. As Cambria announced that it was a boy, Princess smiled weakly, tired already from the process. She looked to the puppy and then to Haven, and with a small smile, whispered, "He looks like you."

<style type="text/css">
.pdress1 b {font-weight:bold; color:#E5BB8F; letter-spacing:.0px; }
.pdress1-ooc { font-style:italic; padding:15px; font-family:georgia, serif; font-size:11px; text-align:center; }
.pdress1 p {text-indent:6px; padding:5px 10px; margin:0px;}
.pdress1 {margin:0 auto; width:456px; background-color:#CD716B; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v515/ ... sdress.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #C95B5D; padding: 265px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#F0BEBC; line-height:16px; letter-spacing:.0px; text-align:justify;}
.pdress1-line1 {width:426px; border-bottom:1px dotted #E1A196; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>
[/html]
#14
[html]
 

It touched Haven to see his sister go to Princess' other side and to support her there in the same way that he was. He knew all too well that things had not always been rosy between the two females and there had been serious worries in him as to what he would do if their issues could not be resolved. Things seemed to have mended well though, and to see Mati now come to his mate's aid and support, well it spoke volumes. Anxious as he was about what was happening at the moment, he caught his sibling's purple gaze and smiled at her in a warm and thankful manner. It meant a lot that she was here, and even more so that she was helping so much. Haven could not have asked for anything more.


Things seemed to move quickly and slowly at the same time, jade eyes darting between the face of his beloved and the face of the healer. Princess hand held his own tight as she pushed through the contractions to help bring their children into the world. He was looking at her as she gasped and then saw Cambria's movement out of his periphery and his face darted around to face the Marino fey. A small, burnt orange body was held up before him and the sight of it combined with the words took his breath away. A boy. He was officially a father. And he had a son. The Knight could feel happy tears sting at the corners of his eyes as a broad smile etched its way across his face.


Princess' words diverted his gaze, and the man beamed down at his woman. He felt his heart could burst, and yet any words were lost to him. Instead he simply leaned down and planted a kiss on the top of his mate's head. Even though the process was not yet over, all of his fears and worries had disappeared with the appearance of that little miracle in the chocolate midwife's hands.

<style type="text/css">
.havendaddi01-box {width:250px;height:380px;float:left;}
.havendaddi01 b {font-weight:bold; color:#8c652e; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #ab9e8b; }
.havendaddi01-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; text-align:center;}
.havendaddi01 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.havendaddi01 {margin:0 auto; width:500px; background-color:#dac7ac; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... dad001.png); background-position:top left; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #8c652e; padding: 10px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.havendaddi01-border1 {width:502px; border:2px solid #dac7ac; margin:0 auto;}
.havendaddi01-line1 {width:240px; border-bottom:1px dotted #8c652e; margin: 0px 10px 3px 0px ; float:right;}
</style>
300+
[/html]
#15
[html]

sorry for the delay! & now he's going to cry lololololol

The boy had never felt so much tension in an enclosed space before. He handed the towel to the birthing coach and he could see that his hands and fingers shook. He did not know exactly what he was scared of, most of this being much of mystery to the young male, but he knew that things could go wrong. Though, he didn't really know when things were going right either and when the mother winced in pain he flinched too and when she gasped Alder did too. He did not look down at the woman, but looked at the towels instead and only brought his eyes up when Cambria spoke.

Alder looked at the puppy, and he smiled. He forgot the fear, and felt an odd sense of relaxation fill him as he looked at the newborn. Alder blinked, and a new odd feeling in his chest brought tears to the corners of his blue orbs.

<style type="text/css">
.alderjan08 b {font-weight:bold; color:#d09d6c; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #dbdbd7; }
.alderjan08-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#8e6d4c; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #f1f1ee; text-align:left;}
.alderjan08 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.alderjan08 {margin:0 auto; width:460px; background-color:#f1f1ee; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... rjan08.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:2px solid #dbdbd7; padding: 170px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#8e6d4c; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #f1f1ee; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.alderjan08-border1 {width:464px; border:1px solid #8e6d4c; margin:0 auto;}
.alderjan08-line1 {width:430px; border-bottom:1px dotted #eaded5; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>

[/html]
#16
[html]
<style type="text/css">
#cambriahealymarit {width:430px; background-color:#f4f6e7; border:1px solid #000000; border-top:0px; margin:auto; margin-top:-40px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text {padding:15px; margin-top:0px; margin-bottom:0px; border:0px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text b, #cambriahealymarit .text i {color:#325000;}
</style>


I love Alder ^^ You can feel free to PP Cambria helping the next pup Meggers

The way the birth of the first child eased the tension in the room and all those whom inhabited it was truly amazing. Even though Mati and herself had been the pillars of calm in this process, it did not mean that they had not had their own worries and concerns locked up inside. The healer had read and learned about the different things that could go wrong during labor and always was on a look out for signs that something might not be going as it should. This was turning out to be a textbook birth though, and the small orange pup in her hands was proof of that.


This was not over though, and there was still work for the mother to do. Cambria placed the bundled little boy pup down next to her as she returned her focus to Princess. The pause between the birth of the separate pups could be short to none at all and she needed to be prepared to care for the next one as soon as it came into the world. Now that Princess had gotten one pup out, the Medicus was not so concerned with coaching. The faster the birthing was over, the sooner the new parents would get to cuddle their babies.

[/html]
#17
[html]

I love Alder so hardcore! And when I typed "midwife," it took four tries of it to not write "housewife." Obviously, I think Cambi needs to be a housewife. Like... '50s style. 8D ♥ 300+


The young Lady Chance wished to take her newborn son into her arms and to coddle him and adore him now, but the pains she had been feeling immediately before his birth were returning with a new vigor and Princess knew that she would need to wait until every puppy was out before she could give them the attention she so desired to give the little burnt orange boy now. She exhaled shakily, trying to calm herself. One puppy had already been brought into the world and she had no need to be worried anymore. She had already been shown that she would be fine and that the puppy would be alive and wriggling after its birth. Still, she could not quiet her nerves and she gripped Haven's hand more tightly, unaware of the way that the birth of the first puppy had affected Alder, Mati, and Cambria, as she had been so focused on her mate in that moment.

Princess did not fight the urge to push this time, as she had done so without realizing with the first. Cambria was ready for the next puppy to be born, skilled as she was as a medic and midwife. Though she had done it once only moments before, the strange feeling of pain mixed with relief surprised her once more as the second puppy, a little mottled brown girl with a splash of red on her chest, entered the world, caught by Cambria's waiting hands. Princess closed her eyes warily as the Dreamer cleaned the second puppy, and for a moment, she thought it might be over. She had not known how many there were in there during her pregnancy, but two seemed like it was not enough, that there had been more. As if cued by that thought, a gripping pain tugged at her stomach and she tightened her grip on both hands, though it had been slackened after the second puppy's birth.

<style type="text/css">
.pdress1 b {font-weight:bold; color:#E5BB8F; letter-spacing:.0px; }
.pdress1-ooc { font-style:italic; padding:15px; font-family:georgia, serif; font-size:11px; text-align:center; }
.pdress1 p {text-indent:6px; padding:5px 10px; margin:0px;}
.pdress1 {margin:0 auto; width:456px; background-color:#CD716B; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v515/ ... sdress.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #C95B5D; padding: 265px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#F0BEBC; line-height:16px; letter-spacing:.0px; text-align:justify;}
.pdress1-line1 {width:426px; border-bottom:1px dotted #E1A196; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>
[/html]
#18
[html]
 

Funnily enough, I could totally see Cambi all decked out, '50s housewife style X3

The change that had happened in the tiny moment was amazing. A sort of fulfillment that the orange Knight had never felt before settled softly into his chest. He was a father now, a role he had never known himself as a boy, and now here he was to fill it. At first that thought had scared him, for he did not know truly what a father was or what they were meant to do. None of that seemed to be worrisome any longer though. Not as he looked at that little ochre body bundled in the towel. He knew that he would always do whatever his children needed him to do. It was an instinct that he would never be able to disobey. It was as simple as that.


That momentary bliss had lead him to forget that there was likely more pups on the way and so when he felt Princess squeeze his hand again his attention turned back to the fuller picture that was unfolding. Jade eyes watched as his son was placed carefully by the healer, and he too felt the intense urge to hold the boy close, but right now he still needed to help Princess and so his body stayed still. Soon another pup was born and Haven looked at the small form of his daughter, taken by that familiar splash of pumpkin hue. He hadn't known that his coloring would be so prolific. The man wondered if that might be it, but soon enough his mate grasped his hand hard again and he looked eagerly for the arrival of their third child, his tail waving slowly behind him.

<style type="text/css">
.havendaddi01-box {width:250px;height:380px;float:left;}
.havendaddi01 b {font-weight:bold; color:#8c652e; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #ab9e8b; }
.havendaddi01-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; text-align:center;}
.havendaddi01 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.havendaddi01 {margin:0 auto; width:500px; background-color:#dac7ac; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... dad001.png); background-position:top left; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #8c652e; padding: 10px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#514739; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.havendaddi01-border1 {width:502px; border:2px solid #dac7ac; margin:0 auto;}
.havendaddi01-line1 {width:240px; border-bottom:1px dotted #8c652e; margin: 0px 10px 3px 0px ; float:right;}
</style>
--
[/html]
#19
[html]

It was impossible not to be moved during such moments.

Mati tensed with the movements of the birth mother naturally. Her shoulders tightened, her arm taking up the weight of the slight female as she pushed. It was longer then a normal second, and time seemed to stop when the pressure was gone and she felt Princess relax back against her. Purple eyes looked at her mate, watching her work and she forgot that she was to help coach the other woman back to the strength that would bring the next puppy into the world. She could only stare, and when Cambria held out the boy wrapped in the cloth she didn't see a midwife presenting her nephew to her brother but her mate holding the newest member of the world.

Her heart paused, the moment lingering and the feeling shocking her. She looked dazed, and the only thing that could shake her from it was the movement of Princess and the quick arrival of the next puppy. She kept her eyes on the face of the new mother, unsure what to make of the sweeping emotion that still lingered in the back of her mind. Of course there were tears, hidden in the outer corners of her eyes, but she didn't know if they were of joy or something else.

<style type="text/css">
.matisept02 b {font-weight:bold; color:#efe3d8; letter-spacing:1px; text-shadow: 0.1em 0.1em 0.2em #8c5d2e; }
.matisept02-ooc {font-style:italic; padding:0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#d8bca0; text-align:center;}
.matisept02 p {text-indent:0px; padding:5px 15px; margin:0px;}
.matisept02 {margin:0 auto; width:480px; background-color:#af7840; background-image:url(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v121/ ... sept02.png); background-position:top center; background-repeat:no-repeat; border:1px solid #f4eae0; padding: 130px 0px 10px 0px; font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size:12px; color:#d8bca0; letter-spacing:.3px; word-spacing:.8px; line-height:12px; text-align:justify;}
.matisept02-border1 {width:482px; border:1px solid #000000; margin:0 auto;}
.matisept02-line1 {width:450px; border-bottom:1px dotted #8c5d2e; margin:0 auto 3px auto;}
</style>

[/html]
#20
[html]
<style type="text/css">
#cambriahealymarit {width:430px; background-color:#f4f6e7; border:1px solid #000000; border-top:0px; margin:auto; margin-top:-40px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text {padding:15px; margin-top:0px; margin-bottom:0px; border:0px;}
#cambriahealymarit .text b, #cambriahealymarit .text i {color:#325000;}
</style>


300+

The second pup had been all taken care of and was placed down carefully next to her brother and by the time Cambria turned back around Princess was pushing again. The healer had no idea how many pups would be born, but something instinctual told her that this third one would be the final one. When the Marino was working, she gained a sort of tunnel vision that blocked out any and all unnecessary distractions, and so she did not see the touched look in her mate's eyes as she had beheld her holding the newest member of her family. She was completely focused on Princess and making sure the pups were all healthy and taken care of as soon as they were pushed into the world. Princess was doing an amazing job with the labor and soon all her hard work would be over and she could see the true joy that was her reward.


Soon the third pup was out and the Medicus attended to it just as she had the first two. This one was also a girl and had coloring that appeared to be very similar to that of her mother. As she wrapped the little girl up in the warm, dry towel it appeared her premonition had been correct and the birthing was over. "Two girls and a boy, congratulations," she said smiling broadly as she gathered the bundled pups up and offered them over to their parents. Cambi sat back and looked at the new family and a warmth spread in her chest. This was the part of her job that was really rewarding, and to see life and happiness for a change was just the pick-me-up the Marino had needed. At first she had felt bad about leaving Crimson Dreams to come and help, but now she was so very glad that she had.

[/html]


Forum Jump: