#storm snippets

Adjustments

Robert wasn't sure how he felt morally of ransacking abandoned camps. Camps that had clearly had someone living in them at some point, but long since deserted.

Technically he shouldn't have needed half the things he did. But he didn't want to trouble anyone in Andrea's former village and he also didn't want to keep asking things of Laika. The young huntress still had plenty of her own chores to attend to for her tribe. She didn't need him asking to help him with supply runs.

This was also one of the few times he emerged from the darkness into the light of the day.

It had started because he noted there had been at least one attempt made by someone long ago in the caves to survive. Not much had been there. A fishing rod near a pond that was still in good condition, a tent that aside from a spider he had to bludgeon to death inside, was still perfectly usable and the fabric, while needing a good washing, seemed to be salvageable.

It escalated into a theory if there was one like this in the caves, then was it possible there was more on the surface. As grim of a theory as it was, it had bothered him.

So, with a warning to stay safe from his wife, he set out. Traveling through a snow covered land, bundled up in a cloak made of beefalo fur found from one of the camps he had raided.

He spent a few days on the surface, mapping out the trail leading from the cave entrance to where he was now.

The camp before him had clearly seen better days. There was a tent with claw marks through it and a large fire pire that hadn't been lit in quite some time.

Robert took a deep breath before using his wrench to part the tent flap to be sure no one else was inside.

Like he had suspected, once more, it was empty. Part of him was relieved he wasn't taking from someone who might've needed it… but he also felt a bit guilty ransacking it.

It looked worse on the inside. He could see an abandoned bed roll with dark stains on it. There was a chest off to the side too.

Robert took a glance outside to once more be sure he truly was salone before digging through it.

"Hm…" He pulled out what seemed to be medical supplies. Honey poultice, a container of healing salve… He pulled out a small box, opening it to find a set of scalpels gleaming up at him.

This camp must've been home to a psychician.

Judging from how torn up this place is, I don't think he'd mind if I took these.

I may not be a doctor but I can handle basics. I can't rely on the Thulecitans to suddenly be human anatomy experts.

He gathered up the tools, taking a mental note of what else he found. He sighed a bit, shivering as the wind picked up.

Tomorrow… He decided, I'm going home to my wife.

oooooo

"Alright, I think that's the last one." Andrea sighed in relief, counting the jars in front of her.

Living down in the caves, she had gotten quite adept at canning and preserving the things that grew in her garden.

Sebastian leaned over one jar, scrunching his face up as best as he could.

"Beanssss. Yaaaaay." He hissed.

Andrea shoved him off the counter as he gave a shriek, flailing as if injured.

"Oh don't be such a terror-chick." Andrea crossed her arms, giving him a grin. Sebastian went limp, throwing his head back, letting his tongue hang out.

"Gooodbyyeee cruuueeel world. Remember meee!" He hissed. "Rose…. Bud."

Andrea clapped slowly as he jumped up, taking a bow.

"Thaaank you, thank you I'll be here all weeeek!" He scurried back up onto the table. "Screee!"

Andrea slid him the jar of beans as he looked at it as if offended. He turned his nose up at it, diving under the table into a dark corner.

"You big baby." She dropped a tea towel on top of him as he poked his nose out.

"It'ssss keeping your mind off the hubby." He replied, his tongue hanging out a little.

Andrea sighed a bit as she brought her arms around herself. She was still worried, her stomach twisting in knots sometimes when she thought of the possible dangers.

"Y-Yeah."

Sebastian nuzzled her ankle before scurrying back into his hiding place.

The door opened as a chill came through the house.

"Andrea?" Robert called as she perked up, hurrying to meet him halfway. He was shrugging off his cloak, sighing in relief at being inside their home. He looked at her with an ecstatic look. "I'm home!"

She squealed, throwing her arms around him as he spun her around, laughing before they shared a brief kiss.

"Mm… Well, that's quite the welcome." Robert chuckled, pressing his forehead against hers. He still had a chill to his skin as she shivered a bit, bringing her arms around him.

"Oh, Robbie, you're freezing! Sit, sit, by the fire!" She said before shoving him towards it as he let himself be moved.

"Yaaayyy brother in law isssss home!" Sebastian chirped, scurrying to another dark area.

"I am. Good to see you too Sebastian. Take care of Andrea while I was out?"

"Terror Beak Theater."

Robert chuckled, rubbing his hands together in front of the crackling fireplace, sighing in relief as warmth came back to them. He looked behind him to Andrea as she laid a blanket around his shoulders before sitting nearby with his bag.

"You can look through it, just be careful. I need to clean quite a bit."

Andrea peered inside. She pulled out the box of scalpels, taking a look before putting them away quickly.

"Well then."

Robert shrugged.

"While I'm not a doctor, I can pick up first aid quickly and I'd rather be able to help if something were to happen. I thought it'd be good just in case." He grinned sheepishly. "Call me overprotective but… I wanna make sure I can take care of you." He looked to Sebastian. "And you, if you ever get changed back."

"I vill NOT be your guinea pig!" Sebastian hissed.

"Guess I'll just fill in your little hidey hole."

Sebastian gasped sharply before scurrying out of the room.

"NUUUU!"

Robert chuckled, offering an arm to Andrea as she huddled close, curling up beside him. He brought an arm around her, stroking her shoulder as she slumped a bit against him.

"How've you been?" He asked, running a hand through her hair. Andrea curled up more until she was almost a ball and sharing the blanket fully with him. He adjusted it to keep it close around her.

"Cold." She retorted. "And busy. I was preserving food or making sure it stayed preserved. Laika stopped by with Sanare and helped out. It was fun." She yawned a little "Wish I wasn't so stressed though."

Robert frowned, feeling a pang of guilt.

"Oh, Andrea…"

"I worry… and my stomach was all up in knots."

"Well, I'm home now. No more knots." He ran his hand through her hair before stroking one of her ears as she let out a small purr.

"M'supposed to be taking care of you. How'd you turn this around?" She asked, her eyes closing as she nuzzled his hand.

"Because I love you." He chuckled, kissing her head before shrugging off the blanket, wrapping her up in it.

"H-hey, I still have to make dinner-EEP!" She squeaked a little when he stood and lifted her up into his arms. "Robert!"

"I'm tired too. Let's go take a nap." He yawned a bit, carrying her to their room. Andrea wasn't going to argue with that as she kissed his cheek.

He set her down before heading out of the room. She sat up, tilting her head, wondering where he was going off to. He soon appeared, munching on a piece of jerky, offering her one.

".. No thanks."

"Suit yourself." He finished his snack before laying beside her, bringing her close.

Robert was the last to drift off, unable to help but watch his wife fall asleep. He still felt like he was in a dream that he feared he might awaken from.

oooooo

Over the next month or so, life went on as normal for them in the caves. Visiting the tribe or hosting young Thulecitians in their abode for meals, Sebastian and Andrea bantering as always…

Until something felt off.

Andrea usually was up first. She would dust her crystals and meditated in the glow of her candles or scry in her crystal ball. She had a whole routine dedicated to her craft for when she first rose with the sun.

He was used to hearing her whisper or softly sing spells as she did so. But one morning… It didn't come.

Robert yawned, sitting up slowly, fumbling for his glasses. He slid them on, staring blearily at the clock he had made for them.

Andrea was beside him still, curled up on her side away from him. He shook his head, figuring maybe she had stayed up too late casting once more. Too much use of her abilities and she was exhausted.

He ran his hand through her hair, humming softly. Andrea's ear twitched before she looked up at him, exhausted. She blinked slowly at him.

"Hey you… Morning." He leaned over to kiss her head before she shook her head, pushing him away.

"No. You'll catch it." Andrea murmured, burying her face into her pillow, her response partially muffled by the action.

While she had tried to keep quiet - and her husband slept like a rock when he worked too long which he had, she had been sick all night, battling bouts of nausea between trying to get any form of sleep.

"Andrea, please tell me what's wrong." He pleaded gently. "What's going on?"

Andrea sighed into her pillow, her hair splayed across it like a curtain before rolling over to face him.

"I think I caught something. I don't want you sick either."

Robert gave her a gentle look, feeling her cheeks and head. He noted she did feel a bit warm.

"Anything else?"

"Nausea… Really, really bad nausea. Like, ate a raw green cap piece by accident levels."

Robert winced. He had been witness to that when they had been younger. He stroked her hair before getting up.

"Wait here." He said over his shoulder.

Andrea sighed, trying to make herself comfortable.

"Can you make me some tea, please?" She called.

"When I'm done."

"With what-No."

He leaned back in, a few of his new tools in hand.

"I cleaned them and I have been studying I can't very well drag a healer down here." He gave her a gentle look. "I'll be fast, promise."

Andrea sighed, nodding.

"Besides your stomach Love, anything else going on?"

"My clothes were fitting a bit weird. More snug in some places." Andrea added.

Robert nodded before listening to her abdomen, focusing on what he was hearing. Andrea watched him, concerned.

Alright, so far so good-Huh?

He blinked in confusion as he heard a new sound in particular. He closed his eyes, focusing on the sound.

It was tiny but it was so strong at the same time. A heartbeat.

"Andrea… I… I think I know what's wrong." He threw the stethoscope around his neck, a look of surprise on his face. Andrea sat up a little, giving him a worried look. "N-No, it's not bad."

"Robbie, tell me."

He rubbed the back of his neck, a grin coming to his face.

"Andrea… I heard a heartbeat." He laughed a little. "A very tiny heartbeat."

Andrea's eyes grew wide as her hands came to her mouth.

"Y-You're not kidding?"

"No! I know what that sounds like. We're… We're actually…" He brought her into his arms, peppering her head with kisses. "Oh my stars Andrea we're having a baby!"

Andrea laughed, hugging him tightly, kissing his cheek in return.

"A little baby." She wiped away a tear that threatened to fall, her eyes a bit misty. "We're… We're having a baby."

Robert nodded, his own eyes glassy.

They had wanted a family of their own, they just didn't expect it to happen quite like this.

"This is really our life… Are we ready?" She asked softly.

"I… I have no idea. But we will be." He assured her as she brought both hands over her abdomen. "And I'll make sure you both are safe."

She smiled giving a nod.

"Heh… A baby… What do you think Sebastian's gonna think of this?"

"Heh, we'll find out." He chuckled, kissing her head again. "Now, you want that tea?"

"Mm-hm. More sleep and cuddling. Food later."

Robert laid down with her, his arms around her, his hands resting over hers.

We're really gonna do this. We're going to be bringing a baby into this crazy world.

Down in the Underground

He could hardly wait to see her face when she saw their new home. It had taken a few weeks of work, from mapping out the area, to finding a place that would allow adequate light from above to trail in.

But it was done.

Their ceremony had been a fast affair, all too eager to finally seal the deal as it were.  

Andrea’s hand was held securely in his as he lead her down. Once they had gotten closer he had her close her eyes.

“You’re not peeking, right?”

“Robbie! Come now, you trust me right?”

Robert chuckled, squeezing her hand.

“I trust you. I don’t trust Sebastian.”

“WELL, NOW I'M WOUNDED!” His voice echoed from the shadows. Robert and Andrea laughed.

Robert fell quiet, leading her along until he arrived at their destination.

“Okay… Now!”

Andrea opened her eyes, a surprised look coming to them. It was a base like nothing she had ever seen before.

In the center was a house that resembled the one she had above ground. She could see light flowers curling like vines around it, illuminating it.

She looked upward, seeing it was also nestled in an area where natural light flowed in.

“Robbie…”

“That’s not all.” Robert grinned, leading her around to the back of the house. “Ta-da!”

There was a massive herb and flower garden in the back, forming a circle around a moon dial that looked as if it was carved out of moonlight with how it shone.

Large crystal geodes surrounded it as well, giving off their own faint glow.

“A proper moon dial for your moon scrying… A-And a proper circle garden to cast in. D-Do you like it?” Robert asked, a nervous look coming to his eyes. Andrea had her back to him, taking everything in.

Andrea turned to him, an overjoyed look in her eyes. She squealed, tackling him, hugging him tightly. Robert was surprised before he let out a laugh.

“I take it that’s a yes?” He asked as she peppered his head with kisses.

“THIS IS THE BEST THING EVER!!!!” She laughed, nuzzling him.

Robert held his wife close, resting his head against hers.

“I’m so glad you like it my love. I just want you happy.”

“And I am. So very happy.”

“YA DID GOOD BROTHER IN LAW!” Sebastian screeched.

“And something for you.” Robert had a mischievous look as he reached over, uncovering a small stone den in the cave floor.

Sebastian scuttled over, looking at it.

“WOW. I GET ONE HOLE IN THE GROUND. You’re SOOO generous.”

“I mean I could just plant things-”

“IT’S MA HOLE.” Sebastian scurried in.

“I mean, now you can keep around when I have candles and stuff going without getting hurt by the lights.” Andrea pointed out with a giggle. Sebastian poked his nose out of the hole.

“It’sssss cozy.”

I think we’re gonna be just fine.

oooooo

“Alright, let’s see… That should do it.” Andrea sighed happily as she stirred the contents of the crockpot. “Robert’ll be starving when he gets back.”

“Ya mean more than usual?” Sebastian asked, swinging down from one of the rafters. Andrea poked his nose.

“Maybe. We’ll see. Mandrake soup’ll warm him up good though.”

“Ya, it better. After all the trouble that thing was!”

“MERP, MERP, MERP, MERP, MERP, MERP!”

“Guuuuh shut up, shut up!!!”

The siblings shuddered as Andrea stirred the pot a big more vigorously as if to ensure the strange plant creature was truly dead.

Let’s see… This should be fine to go for awhile.

She looked out the kitchen window into her garden, taking a second look when she noted some of the herbs had been disturbed.

… That’s not normal.

“Sebastian?”

He swung down next to the window, peering out.

“I ssseee disturbed stuff.”

“And Robert’s not the type to go through my garden without explicitly asking me if he can snip down one of the plants.”

“... I scream?”

“No scream. We sneak.”

Sebastian dropped from his perch, hissing as he scurried after his sister.

“You never let me have any fuuun!”

“Brother, contrary to what you believe, you are not a good alarm clock.”

They quietly crept out, Andrea with a spear in hand, Sebastian darting through the shadows. Andrea looked around, taking note of some tracks in the dirt.

They look… insectoid...  Great, we got big  bugs. As usual.

Nothing looked as disturbed as she thought. A few herbs snipped down but that was about it.

Strange.

Her eyes narrowed as she made her way for her moon dial, noting the water level had gone down as well.

Whatever was here, was sneaky.  Not a spider. Spiders are too dumb for this and they’re purely carnivorous.

Andrea kept scanning the area, keeping as quiet as possible, listening for any off sounds… That’s when she heard it. It was the sound of scuttling footsteps. They sounded like the footsteps of a spider but… yet there was a slight difference. A light scratching of claws.

She let her ears guide her to the source, seeing a shape walking around in the dark, their white eyes having a slight glow to them. Now she was certain it wasn’t a spider since there were only two eyes and not the eight eyes spiders were known for, not to mention these eyes were more human shaped and were set higher on whatever the creature was in the darkness.

She narrowed her eyes, gripping her spear tightly, taking a defensive stance.

“Sebastian, be a dear and bring ‘em into the light.”

Sebastian disappeared from her view before slinking into the shadows following the creature.

“SCREEEE!!!!”

The creature gave a scream of their own, scuttling faster, trying to get away as Sebastian gave chase. He had to dodge a few hits from their own weapon before the creature came into the dim light of the light flowers.

Andrea’s eyes widened at the sight of the creature. It was a human bug hybrid like creature. The top half was humanoid while the bottom half resembled that of a scorpion. They were red and tan in color and wore a pale green cloak along with a gold headpiece and were wielding a spear that was made of an odd stone.

“What the…?” She shook it off. “Who are you!? What are you doing in my camp?”

The creature stared back her, tilting their head. They spoke but Andrea couldn’t understand them. The dialect wasn’t any language she had heard before. Though from the tone of the creature’s voice they sounded a little scared.

“Easy, easy…” She hesitated before going a bit closer. “Can you understand me?”

The creature stared on, seeming to try and process what Andrea was saying and gave her a confused expression in response.

Andrea hummed in thought before snapping her fingers as she recalled a spell she had read once.

I remember Melinda used it a lot when traversing the human world. Should work here too.

She focused as she conjured up a string of energy as it came around them both, chanting in an old language. When it was done the string faded away.

“Can you understand me now?”

The creature blinked before nodding.

“Y-Yes-” They brought a hand to their throat. “What… is this tongue I am speaking?”

“English. It’s the tongue my people speak as well as my husband. What was yours?” Andrea asked with a head tilt of her own.

“T-Thulecitian.”

“Hm… I’ve not heard of that one.”

“I have never heard of English before either.” The creature came closer. “What are you exactly?”

“I was going to ask you the same thing. I’m a Shadow Being.”

“Shadow Being… So strange.” The creature looked closer. “Why are your ears so far out?”

Andrea flicked her ears a little.

“They’re just like that. May I ask what you are too?”

“I am a Thulecitian.” The creature answered. “The dwellers of the underground.”

“Fascinating. So, you’re the little sneak who’s been taking from my garden.”

“I needed water… and those herbs tasted yummy.”

Andrea took note of how they sounded, her gaze softening.

Must be just a kid… not worth being mad over, Besides, this is definitely interesting.

“I-I promise I won’t steal again. I-I’ll make it up to you.” The Thulecitian bowed. “O-On my apprentice’s honor.”

“Hey, it’s okay.” Andrea held up a hand. “No need to bow. Just ask if you need something. I don’t mind sharing now that I know you weren’t causing trouble. What’s your name, young one?”

“L-Laika…”

“Well, Laika, my name’s Andrea… and sorry for scaring you earlier.”

“That creepy thing was yours?”

“I AM MY OWN TERRORBEAK THANK YOU VERY MUCH!”

Laika shrieked, backing away and pointing their spear at Sebastian.

“S-Stay back fiend!”

Sebastian gave an unimpressed look.

“Oh, that’s real polite. Reeeaaal nice. Hmph!”

“Easy now.” Andrea grabbed her spear, making her point it away. “That’s my brother.”

Laika’s jaw dropped.

“THAT is related to YOU?”

“It’s a looong story.”

“I USED TO BE PRETTY.”

Laika blinked.

“You mean… You used to be a Shadow Being?”

“YEH. BUT I ANGERED A KING AND HE CURSED ME!”

“Oh…” Laika frowned. “I see… So even beings like you are susceptible to such a mutation.”

“King Maxwell doesn’t like us very much. Namely my brother here. He used to work for him along with his former archivist.” Andrea explained. “The details aren’t ours to tell but… it wasn’t pretty.”

“I let my anger get a hold of me.” Sebastian bowed a little. “Sorry kid!”

“I-It’s okay…” Laika looked to Andrea. “I w-will make things up though. I promise.”

“Hm… Well, if you do wanna help, know where I can get some cave bananas? Robbie found some a few days ago but someone…” She looked to Sebastian. “Ate them all.”

“Oh, I can find them! And hunt some splumonkeys!”

“I’ll pay you in a good meal of Mandrake Soup. Deal?”

“Deal!”

Laika scurried off without another word. Sebastian looked to Andrea.

“THISSS ISSS GONNA BE INTRESSSSSTING TO EXPLAIN TO ROBERT.”

“Indeed, but honestly I think he’ll be happy to know we have nice neighbors.”

oooooo

“Andrea! I’m home!” Robert called as he came in from his long trip of scavenging for materials around the caves.

“Welcome home love!” Andrea grinned hurrying over to help him unpack. “Find anything interesting?”

“You just want first dibs on the crystals.”

“Maybe~” She gave a sneaky look before he pulled her into an embrace. “Eeep!”

“C’mere you!” He chuckled, kissing her head. “Missed you. What’ve you been up to?”

“Weeell…” She grinned sheepishly. “I met the neighbors.”

“... Eh?”

Andrea nodded.

“A being called a Thulecitian. Young one too. She was scrounging around the garden. Took a minute to understand her but she offered to make up for the stealing.”

“Huh… Intriguing. What did they look like?”

Andrea conjured up shadow flames that took the shape of Laika as Robert’s eyes grew wide.

“Fascinating. Do you know if she’ll be back?”

“I sent them on a little errand so, soon probably. She got happy at the idea of hunting splumonkeys.”

Robert grimaced.

“I don’t blame her.”

“So, we shall see. For now, how does mandrake soup sound?”

Robert’s stomach growled.

“Sounds wonderful.”

“Right this way then.”

Andrea lead Robert out back, quickly getting him a serving before getting her own and sitting down with him. They ate in silence, enjoying the food. They soon heard the scuttling of footsteps.

“Andrea! I’m back!”

Andrea smiled as she saw Laika approach, a sack slung over her back.

Laika grinned back before curiosity came to her face at the sight of Robert.

“Who is this?” she asked, pointing her spear at Robert.

Robert yelped, grabbing for his wrench.

“This is my husband!” Andrea quickly got up. “Robert, this is Laika. Laika this is Robert.”

“Your ears…” Laika tilted her head. “... They’re so tiny.”

Robert rubbed one of his ears unconsciously.

“Honestly, they’re considered big for some humans.”

Laika blinked.

“Hoo… mon?”

“Yes. That’s what I am, a human being.”

“Hoomon being… I thought there were just Shadow Beings up there.”

Robert smiled, giving a sheepish look.

“I’m not exactly local.”

Laika’s eyes grew wide.

“Are… you from another world?”

Robert grinned, giving a bow as he stood.

“Robert Wagstaff of Earth.”

“Wow!” Laika was in awe of the man. “I… I have so many questions. Oh, wait till I tell my chief. He’ll be amazed to know about other beings living down here!”

There’s more?

Robert smiled gently.

“Actually… if you’d be willing, I’d love to see where you're from. It’s my current task to map out these caves and make note of what lives down here. I’d love to know more if I may?”

“I’ll talk to my chief but I don’t think he’d mind.”

“Then we have ourselves a deal.” Robert held out a hand.

Laika nodded, giving his hand a shake.

“Indeed we do, Robert Wagstaff of Earth.”

He smiled.

“Please, just Robert, Ms. Laika.”

“Hee okay!”

“And as promised, I got food waiting for you Laika. If your still interested.”

Laika’s stomach growled as she grinned sheepishly, showing her pointed teeth.

“Starving.”

“Ah, rule number one broken!” Robert laughed.

“Rule one?” She asked with a head tilt.

“Don’t starve!”

oooooooo

*Deeeeep breath*

LOOK AT THIS PRECIOUS BUG CHILD.

That is all.

Waiting

Charlie sighed as she gazed out the window of her home, seeing rain fall outside. She would admit, she was not fond of rain, at least, not heavy rain.

Mostly because she was worried William might catch a cold after all he had been through. She brought a hand to the bump on her abdomen, feeling a small kick.

“I know, you miss Daddy. He’ll be home soon.”

Please, come home so I can stop worrying.

It was a little bit later that William soon returned, the man’s suit completely soaked.

“Charlie, I’m home.” He said, shedding off his coat.

Charlie looked at him, giving a small gasp.

“Oh goodness!” She grabbed some towels, hurrying as best as she could, throwing one right over his head. “You’re completely soaked!”

“WAH!”

William was a bit frazzled at Charlie’s reaction but did his best not to overreact, using the towel to dry of part off his head before pulling it off.

“C-Charlie, I’m fine, it’s just water.” He gave a sheepish look. “Wilson and I got caught off guard so we didn’t really have rain gear on to protect ourselves.”

Charlie shook her head, wrapping another towel around his shoulders.

“Water is cold and cold is bad for your asthma. I don’t want you getting sick.”

“I promise, I’ll be fine.”

She gave him a bit of a pout.

“Charlie, I’m okay, really.” He gave a gentle smile. “Little cold and wet but I’m okay.”

Charlie sighed before she smiled, hugging him a little.

“Alright, you win. BUT you’re putting some clean clothes on. I mean it!”

“Yes dear… and maybe a hot cup of tea?”

Charlie perked up, nodding before heading off to do so.

She’s been so protective lately.

William headed for the bedroom, quickly slipping off his wet attire in exchange for dry clothes. He sighed in relief, feeling warmth starting to come back to him. He made his way to the kitchen, finding Charlie already quick at work. He chuckled, seeing her trying to reach a high shelf for something. He hurried over, getting the thing she needed with ease.

“Here you go, Charlie.”

Charlie giggled, kissing his cheek quickly.

“Thank you dear. It’s almost ready.” She gave a sheepish look before getting back to work. “Hope Earl Grey is alright. We’re out of green.”

“Anything warm is good and you know I’m not picky.”

“Still.”

He shook his head, bringing his arms around her from behind, resting his chin atop her head.

“Charlie, why are you being so protective?”

“Because I love you. A lot.” She mumbled.

William chuckled, kissing her cheek.

“And I love you too, my dear.”

Charlie kissed his cheek in return.

“Now, go wait in the living room.”

“Alright, alright.”

William pulled away, heading for the living room, sitting down on the couch, doing what he could to relax.

She’s usually more relaxed than this… but I really shouldn’t question a woman’s motives when she’s pregnant. That’s what mother always said… as did Jack when Diana was expecting the twins.

In a few minutes, Charlie came into the room, carrying a couple of teacups on a tray along with a few pieces of dragon pie. She set them on the table in front of them before cuddling up to William’s side.

“Here you go. Hope you like it.”

He smiled, kissing her head.

“Thank you.” He took a sip, sighing in content feeling warmth spread through him. This was just what he needed on a cold chilly day.

Charlie smiled, keeping close to him, closing her eyes.

“... I just get so tired of waiting.” She finally said after a few minutes. “I’ve checked the calendar ten times, I’ve made six different pairs of mittens and socks, I’ve taken countless naps… I can’t wait anymore!”

William frowned a little, setting down his cup before bringing both his arms around her, resting his hands on her bump.

“I know my dear but sadly these things take time.” He nuzzled her a little. “It’s hard and stressful but… it’s just how it is.”

Charlie sighed bringing her hands up to rest over his, gazing up at him.

“I know. But it’s just hard sometimes. I get so excited and then I remember… Oh… Another four months. I just want to meet them.”

“I know love I know. But in time we’ll have our little one. Hopefully as healthy as they can be.”

And take after you.

Charlie nodded, huddling closer, cringing a big as she felt a kick from their unborn child.

“I bet they will be healthy with all the moving they keep doing in there.”

William smiled gently.

“I think they’re just eager too.”

There was another kick as they both laughed a little.

“Very eager. And they clearly love you already. They kick like this every time you come home.”

“I guess I’m in a sense glad for that.” William’s smile faded a little. “I admit… I’m worried they might not like me.”

Charlie gave him a gentle look, nuzzling her husband a bit.

“Will, they’ll love you. What is there not to love?”

“I’m not exactly ideal…”

“No one is.” Charlie kissed his cheek.

“Still… I’ve made a lot of choices I’m not proud of and… I don’t know. Doesn’t sound like someone who be fit to be a father.”

Charlie gave him a fierce look before turning around and hugging him tightly.

“Don’t you DARE say that about yourself! You made mistakes yes, but that doesn’t mean you’ll make those same ones.”

“Charlie I-”

“Tell me this. If things had gone according to plan back on Earth and we were having this same exact baby but funds were tight would you make that same choice? That very same choice?”

“I…” William lowered his head. “I… I would just… do everything I could to make sure everything would be alright.”

She tilted his chin up, kissing him quickly.

“And that is the man I fell in love with. I know you dear. When this little one comes everything’s going to change but in a wonderful way.”

“It’ll be quite the experience but I’m willing to go through with it.”

Charlie smiled warmly, touching her forehead to his.

“And I’ll be there to help too. We’re in this as a team. Just like we’ve always been.”

“That’s right.”

William smiled warmly, keeping his wife close.

Charlie ran her hand through his hair, nuzzling him.

“But I might still get overprotective.”

“I’m okay with that. Though no more surprise attacks with the towel?”

“Ha! Good one Will.”

“Charlie…”

She giggled, kissing his cheek.

“I just love my husband, okay?”

“... Fair enough.”

He held her close as she leaned against him, William stroking her back

“Though let me take care of you too. If we’re working together that means we take turns.”

“Fair enough.”

A Promise

Jack didn’t like how worried his father looked. His father had always appeared strong and never faltering. Not when he burned himself a little lighting candles. Not when he forgot to dry the dishes and left them in the sink for his mother to find later on. Not when his old knee injury was acting up.

But this… this was an expression Jack didn’t like seeing. Milo was leaning forward on their couch, holding tightly onto his cane. So tightly he thought he might break it.

Jack frowned, looking at the clock. It was so early. Why was he awake? Jack rubbed his left eye a little before going to his parent, tugging on his arm.

“Father, why’re you awake? The moon’s probably still out.”

Milo flinched a little at the touch before trying to put on a brave look.

“Jackie… I..” he sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I… Oh goodness, there’s no easy way to say this. The baby’s coming.”

Jack perked up a little, momentarily excited. His mother had told him months ago that he was going to be a big brother in several months time.

The excitement faded though as he remembered that wasn’t supposed to happen yet.

Jack looked up at his father, seeing genuine fear in his eyes, feeling his own fear crop up. He climbed up beside his father, looking him over before leaning against his side.

“M’sorry…”

“No, Jackie, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t be telling you-”

“No!”

Milo frowned, gazing down at his son.

“Jack...”

“It’s my baby brother or sister. I gotta know too! So… So I can help or something!”

Milo kissed his head, hugging him close. He had awoken in the middle of the night to Cornelia shaking him, telling him something was wrong.

Her pregnancy with Jack had been normal. Jack had been a healthy infant, born right on time. How could they have guessed that things would go so south this time around?

Just please… please, be born alive. Please be alive.

They waited for hours, Jack dozing off against his father in time. Milo, however, couldn’t help the fear he was feeling.

He just wanted everything to go well.

Milo closed his eyes, gripping the necklace hidden under his nightshirt tightly.

Please.

It was mid morning when the doctor appeared, a look of concern in his eyes.

“Mr. Carter?”

Milo felt his heart sink. He took a shaky breath, standing up after making sure Jack was still asleep.

“Yes?” He gestured for the doctor to follow him into an adjacent room. “How’s my wife? How’s… How’s the baby?”

The doctor looked grim as he spoke.

“Mrs. Carter is doing as well as she can be expected to after this type of ordeal. She’ll recover, just needs time. As for your child… He’s very small and frail. Very underweight. He was born so early. We’ll just have to wait and see.”

Milo swallowed hard. He looked up the stairs to where his wife and child were.

“You can’t be serious. He’s… He’s going to be alright, won’t he?”

“Sir, I can’t give him a good prognosis at this point in time. If he makes it through the year I’ll consider it a small miracle. I’m so very sorry.”

Milo felt like all the air had been sucked right out of his lungs. He felt numb. He wanted to cry out. To scream. To demand that the doctor fess up that it was some elaborate and cruel prank.

But it wasn’t.

“Thank you…. I… I need to be with them.”

oooooo

Jack was aware he was being carried. He yawned a little, burying his face into his father’s shoulder.

“Is it breakfast time yet…?” He mumbled.

“Later, Jackie. I want you to meet someone, okay?” Milo spoke quietly. “The doctor left to go get some medicine for the baby and your mother. We’re going to go say hello.”

Jack rubbed his eyes, yawning loudly before giving a nod.

“Okay.”

It was very quiet. Milo was smiling but the smile didn’t make it to his eyes. His eyes were still full of fear and worry.

Jack gulped a little.

“Now, when we go in there, I want you to go to the wash basin and clean your hands, okay? The baby can’t get any germs at all. Alright?”

“A-Alright.”

Milo sighed shakily before leading Jack inside, both of them washing their hands before turning to where Cornelia laid.

She was sitting up in bed, rocking her newborn. She looked up briefly, giving her best gentle look.

“Hello there, Jack. How’s my little fae?”

“I’m… I’m well.” Jack murmured, going to her side, being mindful to not brush his hands against anything. “Are you gonna be okay?”

Cornelia gave him a small smile, kissing his forehead.

“I will love. Now, are you ready to meet your baby brother?”

Jack nodded  leaning over as Cornelia uncovered the baby a bit. The infant was fast asleep, breathing quietly.  Jack smiled a little.

“This is William.”

“Hi, William.” Jack leaned over, feeling relief go through him. The baby was here and he seemed safe… He hoped, at least. “I’m Jack. I’m your big brother. You’re too little now but when you get big, I’m gonna show you all kinds of neat stuff. Like how to catch bugs and find good herbs and dig for crystals and neat stones. A-And….” Jack’s voice cracked, tears stinging his eyes. “And I love you.”

Cornelia looked behind him at Milo, giving him a nod. He lifted Jack up, setting him down beside his mother.

“Would you like to hold him?”

“B-But what about germs?”

“You’re clean, love. You’ll be careful with him. I know. Now, just like I showed you. Mind his head.”

Jack leaned back against the headboard, cradling William against him. The baby mumbled a little in his sleep before scrunching his nose up.

Jack gulped, bracing himself for possible crying, only it never came. William wiggled in the blankets, a tiny hand managing to escape it.

He’s so tiny… Oh gosh he’s really tiny.

Jack brought the arm holding him around him tighter, gently pressing his index finger against William’s palm. The infant grasped onto it tightly. William coughed a bit before settling down.

“I love you.” Jack whispered, holding him close. “I love you so much. I’m sorry you’re here early but I’m glad you’re here.” His voice cracked. tears running down his face.

“Oh, Jackie…”

Milo sat down, bringing his arms around his wife and children.

“We’re gonna make sure he’ll be okay.” He promised. “William is going to be fine.”

“He’s just got a bit of a challenge.”

Jack just hoped it would be a bit.

I got you, William.

oooooo

The first three months of William’s life were a blur for Jack. Doctors and nurses coming by every single day. All of them giving his brother medicine, examining him. Trying to make sure he would have a fighting chance.

He didn’t let his parents know how often he listened in on these appointments. He wanted to be there for his brother, even if William was sick all the time.

Especially tonight. Jack was in an unfamiliar place. A doctor they knew of for years but hadn’t gotten to come around yet.

They had to come to him tonight, however. When Jack and Cornelia were checking on William they had noticed something very, very wrong.

The baby had stopped breathing and in a flurry of emotions and fear they had ran three houses down, pleading for help.

Jack looked at his parents before sneaking off, adjusting his coat so it didn’t make any noise.

He had been told no family was allowed in the treatment room the doctor had but Jack didn’t care.

I’m his big brother. That’s MY responsibility. I’m the one who has to watch him.

Peering in through a crack in the door, he did.

He wasn’t sure what was happening but he did hear William crying which was a good sign as far as he was concerned. He couldn’t see him fully, but he did see how fast the doctor was moving.

“Alright little one, we got you breathing. Pupils responding normally too.”

Jack wished he knew what he was seeing. He wished he could do something to help or at least be in there to make sure William wasn’t scared.

You’re gonna be fine, Will. Just keep being a good boy.

“I know you’re there. I said to wait outside.”

Jack gulped before shaking his head, standing up straight.

“No.That’s my baby brother. I’m… I’m not letting him be alone.”

“Then stay outside that door at least.”

Jack gulped a bit but nodded. It felt like time stood still. All he could do was focus on what happening.

It felt like forever until the doctor came and opened the door fully, kneeling to Jack’s level. He smiled, giving him an assuring look.

“He’s going to be okay. He’s going to make it past one year.”

“Th-Thank you um… Doctor…?”

“Just call me Dr. Stiles.”  

“Thank you.” Jack ran in to see his brother fast asleep on the table. He had to stand on his toes, to see him clearly but it didn’t matter to Jack.

His baby brother was alive.

“Hi, baby.” Jack saw one of his hands was out as he pressed his finger against it gently. William’s face scrunched up a little before his hand grasped onto his brother as tightly as he could. “You silly little baby. Don’t… Oh goodness, William, don’t scare me like that again. I mean it. Never ever again.”

William coughed a little before opening his eyes slowly, looking at Jack before giving him an innocent smile.

Jack sighed in relief, smiling back.

“I promise... I’m gonna do everything in my power to help. You’re not gonna get sick like this again. Not as long as I’m around.”

Jack wasn’t sure how or when but he was going to find a way to keep that promise.

I’m gonna be a doctor.

I’m gonna be your doctor and you’re gonna get better. I’m gonna make sure you can do everything. Everything you ever wanted to.

The Cost of Freedom

CRACK!!

Walter cried out in agony as he hit the floor, having received another hit from the asylum doctor. This beating had been going on for what felt like hours to Walter. The doctor sneered at him, readying the belt again in his hands.

“I’m only going to ask you one more time, kitchen boy. Where is the girl?”

Walter stared at him for a few moments before giving the same smirk as he had before, coughing up a bit of blood.

“I’ll say it once and I’ll say it again, you’re not getting an answer out of me no matter how much you beat me.”

The doctor sneered.

“Who said I need to beat you anymore?” He grabbed him by his hair, forcing him to his knees. “You want her freed so bad? A dangerous inmate out into the world?”

“The only one dangerous here…” He coughed. “Is you!”

The doctor growled, shaking him a little.

“You don’t understand, boy. They’ll throw the book at you for this… or I’ll find a much better punishment for you myself.”

“Do what you want. The information you want you’ll have to pry from my cold dead hands.”

“So be it.”

The doctor, threw Walter down before pressing a button on an intercom.

“Get a room ready. We have a new patient.”

It wasn’t long before other doctors came into the room, taking Walter away and into one of the many rooms of the asylum. They threw him in without much care, Walter skidding across the floor.

“Enjoy your stay, traitor.” one of the doctor’s said before closing the door.

Walter laid on the floor, soreness keeping him from being able to get up. He glanced at himself, least the best he could without his glasses. His clothes were torn in some places, he was covered in bruises and judging by the warmth he felt on his face, he most certainly was bleeding from his nose and had blood on his lips from coughing some up.

He sighed, curling up on himself.

Least Willow got away… I just hope Maxwell is going to keep his end of the bargain in regards to me.

The room was illuminated by a single light bulb that flickered overhead, casting shadows across the walls. Walter shuddered, curling up more on himself, wincing as he felt his abdomen.

Something definitely got messed up. He put me through the wringer.

Of course, tick off the head doctor twice…

It was hours before he heard any sign of anyone outside.

“Hello?”

The door opened before it was quickly closed.

“Sorry for making you wait.”

Walter glanced up, squinting his eyes at the person before him. He recognized the voice but he wasn’t sure if it was who he thought it was.

“Maxwell?”

Maxwell knelt to his level, putting on a new set of glasses over Walter’s eyes.

“The one and only. Again, sorry for the wait, time got the better of me of getting Willow away from this place.”

“I-It’s fine. H-How is she? Is she okay?”

“She’s doing well for herself and you’ll see her in due time but right now, let’s focus on you.” Maxwell summoned magic aura to his hands, having it wrap around Walter, healing his injuries. “You know, I thought doctors were supposed to do no harm.”

“Tell that to ones who see patients like Willow as science projects over people.” Walter sighed in relief. “And then, when you break their rules this is what happens… At least here. There’s some good ones out there I’m sure.” He growled. “But not here… Not these people. They don’t care at all.”

“Hmph, cads the lot of them. Best we make haste now before more show up.”

“Wait, one more favor, please.”  

Maxwell raised an eyebrow, crossing his arms. Walter gave him a pleading look.

“It’s not huge I promise. Just… make it so my mother never gets any notification of me being forced to be in here. It’d scare her a lot.”

Maxwell thought it over before nodding.

“Very well. Might not be a pleasant experience for the doctors here but considering what they do to people here I honestly will not feel bad for what I will do them to keep that from happening.”

“I just don’t want my mother to worry… She’s the only person I have left that is family in this world and I don’t want to hurt her.”

There was sympathy in Maxwell’s eyes.

“I understand and I promise I shall do what I just said to keep that from happening.”

“Thank you.” Walter held up his hand. “I’m ready to go now.”

Maxwell took his hand, summoning shadows around them.

“Let’s leave here then.”

There was a rush of shadows around them before they vanished, something else, something quite dark left behind.

A terrorbeak skittered onto the bed, screeching as the door was opened before lunging for its prey.

oooooo

Walter felt a little dizzy as the shadows dissipated around them. He looked around, seeing they were in a forest area, taking note the trees were burnt to a crisp.

“Looks like she was through here rather quickly.”

“Oh goodness, Willow…” Walter gulped. “W-Where is she?”

“Somewhere far from here. Probably just best to follow the burn trail.”

“You can’t just take me to her?”

“Watch it. I’m already doing you quite a few favors in order to ensure your mother doesn’t find out about this.” Maxwell gave him a serious look. “You can’t make too many demands.”

Walter gave him a miserable look before sighing, adjusting his glasses.

“Right, right, my apologies. Nothing in this life worth having is easy to get, right?”

“Indeed.”

“Then…. I’ll just get to work.”

“Good.” Maxwell summoned a backpack to his hands, offering it to him. “Here, something to start you off. Know these simple rules. Keep your guard up, stay out of the dark and whatever you do, don’t starve. Best of luck finding your “sister”.”

Walter took it, nodding.

“Thank you, Maxwell. You’re a real pal.”

“Anything for a friend. Now, if you’ll pardon me, I have some “doctors” to check on.” He grinned wickedly before disappearing.

Walter took a deep breath before going through the backpack, finding an axe inside.

“Well… if I’m gonna survive.” He looked at the charred trees. “I’m gonna need something for a cooking means.”

Hang in there Willow. I’m coming!

ooooooooo

Alright here we go for another snippet. This one taking place directly after Walter made his deal to free Willow... The man has NOT had it easy.

This also kicks off the collection joining fanfiction.net and archiveofourown:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/14867045 - Archive of Our Own

https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12961102/1/Shadow-Snippets - Fanfiction.net

The Gift

The weather outside was cold and dark. Inside the house was warm and bright, however. Cecelia loved the home she lived in but it was a bit empty.

At least for now. She smiled, walking down the hall, a hand held to her belly.

Just a little bit longer. Then we’ll get to meet you finally, little one.

Now to just get your father to stop driving himself crazy.

She stopped at the music room, knocking on the door, taking note her husband didn’t seem to hear her. She smirked a bit, going over to his piano, taking a seat beside him.

“Hello? Eddie?”

“Mmm…?” He looked to her, a tired grin on his face. “Oh… Hello, Cece. You okay?”

“I’m fine. You look pretty out of it though.” She poked his forehead. “You need to sleep.”

“Aw Cece I’m fine. I’m…” Edward paused as a loud yawn escaped him. “Oh, pardon me, I’m fine.”

Cecelia crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow before wincing, feeling a sharp kick from their unborn child. She leaned forward a little hissing.

“Ow…”

Edward’s eyes widened, bringing an arm around her shoulders.

“You okay?”

“They’re being naughty.”

Edward kissed her head, bringing his hand over hers.

“Now, now… Don’t kick your mother so hard. I know you wanna play.”

Cecelia leaned against her husband, wincing as another kick was felt.

Edward leaned his head against hers, closing his eyes.

“You give me no choice then.” He started to hum softly, before it grew into full out singing. Cecelia kept close to him. The baby settled down as they both felt them settle.  “There we go. Good baby.”

“They want their Winter’s Feast presents.” Cecelia giggled a little. “They keep doing that all the time now.”

“We’ll see if they’ll be born on or before, huh? Just a little bit longer my dear.” Edward brought her into his arms, nuzzling her.

Cecelia relaxed, closing her eyes.

“Yes, just wish it wouldn’t hurt when they throw a tantrum like that.”

“Well, just means they’re going to be nice and strong. Now, let’s get you to bed.” Edward scooped her up into his arms, eliciting a small squeal from her.

“Oof!” She laughed a little. “You hypocrite! I tell you to go to bed and you’re fine. I need to and you're all “yes yes great idea Cece.”

Edward smirked, kissing her cheek.

“But that’s different, my dear. You're the most important person in my life. I can be worried.”

“You dork.”

He carried her off to their room.

“I am your dork. There’s a big difference.”

“Yeah.” She yawned a little. “Music dork.”

Edward smiled, lying beside her as she cuddled up to him. He brought his arms around her, resting his hands on her baby bump.

“We’re so close… I’m almost done with the song. Just a little bit more.”

Cecelia yawned nodding.

“And it’s your own fault if it’s not done when the baby comes.”

“Well, I know how to keep myself occupied then.”

They settled down, drifting off, content to there in the moment.

Soon it won’t just be us…

Edward was able to sleep for a few hours, until something broke him out of it.

“Ed… Ed wake up, please…”

He opened an eye, seeing his wife leaning over him. He looked at her confusion in his eyes.

“Cece, what’s wrong…? I-Is it morning already?”

“Ed… I think it’s time.”

He sat up fully awake now.

“WHAT!?”

oooooo

That was hours ago. It was the early morning now as he paced in the parlor. Edward had ran and fetched some help as soon as he realized what was happening.

“I guess the baby couldn’t wait. Mother, I am so sorry for waking you and father up-”

“It’s alright, son. Now, please, breathe.”

“R-Right. She’ll be okay?”

“I promise.”

Even with that, he couldn't help but worry. He looked at the sheet music in his hands during most of it, trying to keep himself busy…

But there was still a bit of fear.

“Oh gosh, what if we’re not ready? What if something happens?”

Percival got up from where he was sitting grasping his son by the shoulders.

“Ed, Edward, look at me.”

“What if the baby hates me!?”

“Edward!”

Edward looked to him.

“Breathe.”

He took a deep breath, exhaling slowly.

“Sorry, I just… This is terrifying. You know?”

Percival squeezed his shoulder giving him a knowing look.

“I do. I felt the same way the day you were born. I’ll be honest with you, you will never be ready. Be it your first child, or your youngest. It won’t ever be “ready”. It’ll be “As ready as I can be.” and I know you and Cecelia can handle it.”

“Right… Heh. They just couldn’t wait, could they?”

Percival smirked, following his son’s gaze to the tree in the corner of the room, a good fair bit of gifts under it.

“I told you not to go crazy.”

“It’s my first kid!”

“And see? You're already doing fine. Just remember, babies aren’t hard to impress. You were happy with just having us read or sing to you.”

Edward smirked.

“Or have me laugh whenever Sebastian dropped something on his head?”

“Oh, especially!” Percival laughed.

“OW! Melindaaaaa!!! Your baby is mocking me!”

“He did? I didn’t notice.”

They fell quiet, hearing someone hurry down the stairs. Melinda soon appeared at the doorway, a grin on her face.

Edward gulped a little.

“Is… Is she?”

“Everything’s fine. Edward, he’s beautiful.”

He felt tears come to his eyes. Had he heard that right?

A boy… I have a boy!

“He’s okay?”

Melinda smiled, giving a nod.

“Go on and see them. We’ll be in when you want us. Oh, congratulations, son!”

Edward hugged her quickly.

“Thank you, thank you!”

“Now, what are you waiting for, son?” Percival clapped his shoulder. “Go!”

“Going!” He hurried up to his and Cecelia’s room, coming to a stop outside the door to compose himself.

He couldn’t help but listen in, hearing the sound of a baby crying faintly.  He knocked a bit before opening the door.

“Cece dear? You… You okay?”

Cecelia  looked up, a tired grin on her face, holding a bundle in her arms. Edward came closer as she beckoned him over.  

“Just fine. C’mere.”

“Right here… Mother said we have a little boy.”

“A perfect boy.” Cecelia adjusted the bundle a little as Edward got a good look at their child. His eyes were closed as he held onto the blanket he was in, whimpering a little. “He’s been just getting it all out.” She rocked him, humming softly, as he hiccuped a bit before settling down. “There we go.”

“Oh goodness… M-May I?”

She moved a bit to give him room as he sat beside her, gazing down at his son.

My son…

“Oh he’s beautiful. Just beautiful.” He stroked his cheek, earning a little squeak from the child. “Hey there.”

The baby slowly opened his eyes, revealing dark blue eyes that looked up at him in curiosity. He reached out a little hand.

“Aba!”

“Y-Yeah. I’m your daddy.”

Cecelia leaned against him, looking to her husband. “So, what will we call him? He’s quite the gift. I say the best you ever got me.” She joked a little.

“I say the best gift you gave me. By far.” Edward chuckled before he hummed in thought. “Well… What was Emmett’s middle name again?”

“William but I don’t wanna call him that. He doesn’t look like a William.” Cecelia gazed down at the infant holding him close. “Hm… What about Wilson?”

“Wilson… I like it. Then for his middle name, my father’s name?”

Cecelia nodded smiling softly.

“Wilson Percival Higgsbury.” She sighed happily. “That has a nice ring to it. That’s it. He’s Wilson Percival Higgsbury.”

Wilson reached out at Edward, Cecelia offering him to him.

“You sure? What if I-”

“Hold your baby.”

Edward chuckled, taking him into his arms, cradling him carefully.

“Oh, Wilson… Welcome to the world, my little one.” He kissed his head, trying to hide the tears that escaped. “My Little Wil.”

Wilson giggled, nuzzling his father.

“Bah!”

“I love you… so much.”

“Aba!!”

“And I think he’s saying he loves you too my dearest.” Cecelia laid her head on his shoulder, gazing at Wilson. She was so tired but so happy all at the same time.  “December 20th… Just a few days before Winter’s Feast. Silly baby.”

“He’s a clever one. He didn’t want to wait to play with his gifts.” Edward chuckled. “A very clever boy!”

Wilson cooed, curling up against Edward.

Edward looked to Cecelia.

“Is it alright if I…? I mean, I finished it.”

“It’s your song to him and you know I love hearing your music.”

“Haha sorry. Guess this whole parenting thing is still a shock to me.” He cleared his throat. “Alright Wilson, I spent your mother’s entire pregnancy writing this just for you. It has no name but when you can talk I want you to name it. So, here it is.”

Cecelia fell quiet, as her husband began to sing. Wilson fell quiet as he listened to this new sound,a look of recognition in his eyes.

It wasn’t long before the little boy was fast asleep, resting against his father. Edward kissed his head.

“Happy Birthday Wil.”

“And what a wonderful day it is.” Cecelia kissed Edward’s cheek. “Thank you...  Thank you for everything.”

“Hey, we’re in this together.” Edward smiled. “And I’ll do all I can to help take care of him.”

He’s ours after all.

Our greatest gift.

ooooooooooo

This is my entry for Mother’s Day, the day Cecelia and Edward became parents. Fun fact: While Edward didn’t know OF the Shadow World/Constant, he did know of the holidays being of his mothers ‘country’ so they would celebrate Hallowed Nights, Winter’s Feast, ect as well as the usual holidays. Wilson of course being their greatest gift.

Vanished

It had not been Jenny Schuyler’s month at all. She felt like a weight had settled on her shoulders and on her mind.

On the outside, she tried to act like she always did. Work hard with her clients, run her boutique as best as she could.

When she was alone however… that’s when the pain took over. A cold deep pain that seemed to wrap around her, threatening to make her fall at any moment.

It was never easy to recover from a death. She had lost one sister already… and now…

Oh Winnie… Why did you have to go too?

Jenny wiped at her eyes before trying to focus on the project in her sewing machine currently. Her heart wasn’t in it though. Everything reminded her of what she lost. Reminded her of how her father had reacted to the news and then during Winona’s memorial service.

“No… No, she can’t be gone. “ Isaac had murmured, shaking his head. “Not my Winnie… Not my Charlie… Neither of them. This is just a nightmare…”

“Dad… Oh Dad.” She brought her arms around him, burying her face a little. “I miss them too.”

She shook her head, trying not to focus on it nut it was hard. It always was.

Before, it had taken time but Winona and her had been able to get their father to somehow move past Charlie’s disappearance, at least enough he could smile again.

But after the accident, she hadn’t seen him do much else besides work in the garden or tinker with his music boxes and even those seemed to mirror the pain he was feeling.

It was heartbreaking and she could only cope with what she knew best.

Throw yourself into work, Jen.

Jenny felt the pendant around her neck, before taking it off and winding up the tiny key on the bottom.

“This one’s for you, Winnie. Remember when Dad would make us these pendants? And you would never wear yours cause you were worried it’d break?” She spoke aloud to the silent air, opening the lid on the pendant as a tune began to play.

As she worked through the evening, the shop began to darken as the sun lowered from the sky. Doing anything to keep from thinking too much about it.

Because she feared if she may, she wouldn’t be able to stop.

Just don’t think about it… Don’t.

Force it out. You’ve had to help pick up the pieces before… Tomorrow, I got plans with Dad. I’ll take him out for lunch and we’ll eat until we’re sick and I’ll make sure he’s taken care of.

I’m not going to fall apart. I can’t afford to.

When she took notice of the time, she cringed. She knew she had to try to get some form of sleep if she was going to keep her plans. She didn’t want to walk home in the dark but a task had to be done.

I’ll take one of those big knitting needles Winona carved for me last Christmas and if I have to, that’ll be my protection.

With much hesitation, she closed up her shop, gathering up her things. She was halfway down the block when she realized she forgot her pendant.

She looked behind her, sighing a little.

I can just go back for it in the morning before I stop by Dad’s place.

She frowned before nodding to herself heading back.

“It’ll save me time and… then I won’t have to think about it too much.” She reasoned, slipping inside the backdoor and heading back to her workroom.

She looked around before seeing it. She picked it up, looking at the little image painted on the lid. Of her name surrounded by lilies.

With Love, from Dad it read under it in tiny writing. She closed it, holding it close to herself.

“I promise I’m gonna bring you out of this one Dad.”

She heard the backdoor open and slam shut. She cursed a little, fear going through her. Jenny quickly moved through the shop, hiking her skirt up a bit to keep from getting caught on things.

She heard footsteps moving around the back room.

Just go to the front door and leave. Run as fast as you can.

The footsteps increased and before she got to the door, something collided with the back of her head. Jenny saw stars as she stumbled, trying to keep her balance. She didn’t see her assailant, trying to jab at them with her weapon.

Her wrist was grabbed as she was thrown back against the counter, the glass in the display case shattering with the force.

“AUGH!!!”

She saw a figure with a hood over their eyes.

“Where is the safe?”

“I… I don’t know what your talking about.” She lied.

The figure growled.

“I said, where, is, the, safe?” He struck her again as she cried out.  

“IN THE ATTIC!”

She felt something sticky on the back of her head. It was throbbing as well, with every breath.

Just my luck. I’m being robbed because I made one mistake.

The figure disappeared from her line of sight. Jenny struggled to get up, wincing as she felt her head. She could get away, she was just a few feet from the front door.

She took a shaky step, then another… when her hands were around the doorknob, she felt her head swim.

Her grip lightened as she slid to the ground, leaning against the door.

It was quiet. Eerily quiet. She heard something moving about up in the attic.

There was a screech like an animal as well as the thief’s voice before she heard a loud THUD!

Jenny swallowed hard, her hands coming up around her pendant.

“Please, please leave me alone.” She whispered.

She closed her eyes tightly before reaching for the door, pulling hard on the knob, managing to get it open. She tried to run but the pain in her head intensified as she stumbled before collapsing, her head colliding with the pavement as she cried out.

Someone… Anyone… Please…

She looked around blearily until her eyes locked with a set of green ones that stood over her.

“Say, Miss, You don’t look so good.”  A familiar voice said full of concern. Jenny’s gaze managed to focus a little as her eyes widened in shock.

“You…”

“Let’s skip the pleasantries.”

“William why-”

“Let’s worry about you.” He knelt beside her, lifting her upper body into his arms. “Hm… I’d say that fiend managed to give you a good concussion but the blood… Tsk. So rough over such petty things.”

Jenny winced before relaxing as she felt the pain fade away.

“What’re you doing…?”

“Just taking care of things. I had an offer for you but I can’t make it if your too out of it to even properly agree.”

What the heck is going on? I have to be having a nightmare. This is just a nightmare.

The last time she had laid eyes on this man, she recalled a rough almost cold look in those eyes. Not these eyes that were filled with concern.

“Where’s… Where’s Charlie? Is she still…?”

“She’s alive. Winona too, Jenny. I… I wanted to take you to them.”

At least for as long as I could before he wakes up. I had to work so hard to get these few minutes of freedom.

I have to hurry.

William finished healing her injury before helping her up, making sure she could stand.

“I’ll send you back.” Somehow. “But… if you want to see them… or at least see Winona, I know where she’s been camped out.”

“Please… Please. Then I need to get Dad. He’ll be so happy.”

William winced at how desperate Jenny looked. He couldn’t blame her after the ordeal she had just been through.

He took both of her hands in his focusing.

“Just be warned… This isn’t normal.”

They disappeared within seconds, Jenny finding herself with another splitting headache as she looked around her. She brought a hand to her head with a wince.

“Mgh… What hit me again?”

William steadied her when she stumbled again.

“That’s the effect of this world. A headache is expected.” He explained quickly, handing her a backpack. “Winona’s camp is north of here. You’ll find her-” He gasped as he felt a chill go through him, fear in his eyes.

WHAT HAVE YOU DONE!? Maxwell shrieked in his mind, causing William to cry out a little.

“W-William!?”

“Go to her and stay with her. Stay out of the dark. Charlie is not… is not herself. She can’t control-”

YOU SHUT UP RIGHT NOW!

NO!

Jenny had a look of horror in her eyes as William struggled to even stay where he was.

“Just move! Stay out of the dark and don’t starve! You have to live!”

Jenny gulped before breaking into a run to where he had pointed to. She looked back, hearing William scream in agony, falling to his knees. She saw shadows come around him before fading away.

I don’t know what’s going on but I’m not going to question this chance too much.

Please ,Winnie, hang on.

Charlie, you too.

And Dad… Hang in there.

We’ll all be home soon.

oooooooooo

More feels for ya. This time how Jenny got transported... And showing some details about what finally broke William. Max was NOT happy about this

An Old Flame

The candles flickered gently, their flames dancing as they burned. Slowly but with a purpose.

The flames reflected off a gleaming crystal ball in the center of a table. The woman looked over the ball, focusing as images were conjured before her, reflected in the glass.

Some she had expected, checking on loved ones, focusing on ensuring she had a safe path to travel between the village and her more secluded home in the darker part of the woods for the next day…

But what came next surprised her. Her eyes grew wide as the image of a man was reflected on the glass. A large wrench in hands being used as a walking stick as he looked around him, a look of determination in his eyes.

Is… Is this correct? Her hands shook as they hovered over the crystal, waving them over to see if the image would remain.

The image was as strong as ever. The man was still there. She could see his eyes now.

Eyes she knew and missed.

Robert…?

“Andddreeeaaaa! Your caaaandles!” A voice hissed from the shadows.

“Scrying, Brother.” She retorted in response, turning back to the crystal, sighing, seeing the image was fading. She closed her eyes, whispering her thanks before blowing her candles out. There was a dim lantern she had on for her own protection but she knew the candles bothered him.

Andrea knelt down, offering her hand, a gentle smile coming to her face.

“Sorry about that. I… I saw him.”

“Who?” Sebastian slithered out of the shadows, cuddling up to his sister carefully, not wanting to cause her any sanity loss if he could avoid it.

Andrea hugged him, nuzzling him as he gave a little chirp.

“Robert. I-I mean I think it was him.”

Sebastian gave a sharp gasp before coughing a little.

“I ssshouldn’t have done that.”

Andrea shook her head, hugging him again. It was an odd arrangement. Sebastian was stuck like this but she still was able to enjoy his company. It was part of why her house was so far out.

That, and she liked keeping to herself.

But I won’t be by myself if he’s here.

If…

If he still likes me.

“Sssstop lookin like that.” Sebastian spoke, up giving his best serious look as he could manage, wriggling out of her hold.

Andrea hugged herself, giving a sheepish look.

“Yessss it’ssss that obvioussss I’m your big brother for ssssshadow’ssss ssssake!” He hopped up onto her table, tapping her crystal ball with his beak. “I made disssss for you!”

“You think…  he misses me?”

“Andri I know for a fact he does!.”

Andrea felt her cheeks heat up as her ears lowered a little.

“How about disssss? I’ll watch your boyfriend-”

“SEBASTIAN!” She shrieked a little.

“And do some Terrorbeak LOVE SERVICESSSS!”

Andrea felt her face heat up more, covering it with her hands.

“Oh my goodness…” She whispered. “You are too much.”

He slithered off the table and onto her back, nuzzling into her hair.

“I love you!”

“I love you too… Okay, Big Brother. You have a deal. But if you screech in his ear…” She gave him a playful look. “No chin scratches. For a year.”

Sebastian fell off his perch with a shriek.

oooooo

Robert sighed, wiping his brow with his sleeve. He looked up at the darkening sky, trying to recall the cycles from when he was younger.

Let’s see… Tonight should be the full moon. Which means I can avoid getting killed by the darkness.

The man smiled, nostalgia in his eyes as he looked upon the moon. It brought back memories.

“Oh, there she is.” Sebastian smirked, nudging Robert towards where Andrea was standing in the garden behind their home.

Robert blinked, noting she was leaning over what looked to him like a bird bath.

“Andrea?”

She jumped, looking to him, giving a little wave, a shy smile coming to her face.

He tugged at his tie before going up to her. It was daytime but there was a pale light coming from the bird bath.

“What do you have here?” He asked as she looked down into it. He followed her gaze, eyes going wide.

The moon reflected back at them. He looked to her as if asking permission as she nodded. He poked at the water as the reflection rippled but the moon stayed.

Andrea giggled quietly at the bewildered look on his face.

“The moon, even in the day time. Amazing.”

“The moon dial’s a lot of fun to use.” She blushed a little. “As the moon changes, the water amount does too. Pure moon water, perfect for making salves or elixirs with.”

“Incredible.” He murmured, gazing at her reflection in the water.

“Wonder if she still has that thing…”

“SCREEE!”

He jumped as he grabbed up his wrench, dropping into a defensive stance. A shadowy image flickered across his vision. A terrorbeak, as it flickered into a semi-solid form in front of him, hissing as it tried to make itself look bigger.

He moved back, confused when the creature didn’t try to attack him. Instead, the terrorbeak attempted to clear its throat.

“Robbie!! Been foreveerrr!” It hissed in a very familiar tone, as strained as it was. Robert’s eyes grew wide in horror.

“Sebastian…!?” He gasped, moving closer looking him over.

Good heavens…

What happened since I was last here?

“I know.” Sebastian sighed. “It lookssss really bad. But I promissse it’ssss not! … Well, okay I can’t do a lot without handsssss but I’m useful!” He tried to puff himself up a bit. “Sssseee?”

“Good heavens, what happened!?”

“... I ticked off the king.”

“Sebastian, no. You didn’t.”

“I did.” He gave a sad sounding chirp. “And Andrea moved far away sssso I could live with her sssstill when Melly’ssss not around.”

Robert frowned, kneeling to his level, tilting his chin up.

“Well, I’m certainly glad to see a familiar face. Even if it took a moment.”

Sebastian perked up, slithering onto his shoulder, giving a happy chirp.

“YAY!”

Robert chuckled.

“So, how’s it like being one of those?”

“Weird!”

He stood up, balancing Sebastian on his shoulder.

“I see… So, where’s Andrea? If it’s not too abrupt to ask.”

“HA! That’ssss why I’m here!” Sebastian laughed maniacally, a laugh that made Robert shiver a bit.

Even with that warped voice, I know Sebastian’s “I’m about to make your life Hell!” laugh.

“Why?”

“Terrorbeak Love Ssseervvicesss!” He cheered.

“...Eh!?”

Sebastian shrieked a little, making Robert, move faster.

“Mush human! MUSH! THAT AWAY!”

“UWAH! Hey!”

Robert, despite it, found himself laughing as he was guided through the moonlit fields, down an old pathway that had been cleared.

“Incredible…”

“Mm-hm..” Sebastian grinned.

Soon, they passed through a veil of vines as a small cabin was revealed.

“Out back.”

“R-Right.”

This garden was different from the one he remembered. It was more covered, the trellis’ built to ensure there was cover as the plants grew. The large moon dial in the center of the garden flowed with water as it pooled over, running across the ground, illuminating it.

Standing over the dial, her hands hovering above it, was Andrea. Robert’s heart skipped a beat as he took in her image.

She was a bit older herself but it was clearly her. Her hair flowing gently in the breeze as she gazed down at the moon’s image.

Andrea’s gaze was focused as she moved her hands over the dial, for her, the images changing and flickering… until she saw his own leaning over it.

Their gaze met in the water before both looked up. Robert felt his eyes get misty as he gave her a gentle look.

“I found my way back.”

Andrea’s eyes welled up with tears as she reached up, cupping his face in her hands. She opened her mouth to speak before biting her lip.

Robert smiled gently, cupping her cheek in his hand.

“It’s okay. I know it’s been a long time…”

Andrea shook her head before she threw her arms around him tightly, causing him to stumble back a bit before bringing his arms around her.

“A-Andrea…” Robert murmured, some tears escaping. It had been so long, he thought for sure he would never see her again.

“My Robert.” She mumbled. Robert’s gaze softened hearing her voice. Quiet but it was still her’s. Her voice that he missed so dearly.

He tightened his hug around her, burying his face in her hair. Back on Earth he always thought about how this moment might turn out if he got a chance.

He never imagined it would be like this… and he was so relieved she was right there in his arms.

“I know I’m not as young as I was and the beard probably has to-”

Andrea put a finger to his lips, a playful look in her eyes.

“I like whiskers.” She whispered.

Robert felt his face heat up before burying it into her hair again.

As always, she sets my heart a flutter.

“We have a lot to catch up on.. I have so much to tell you.”

“And I you. A-Are you here for… For a few days?” Andrea pulled back a little, worry in her eyes. Part of her worried he might vanish again.

Robert gave her a gentle smile, touching his forehead to hers.

“I’m here forever.”

Andrea’s eyes grew wide, tears running down her face before a bright smile broke out on her face as she closed the distance between them.

Robert brought his arms around her, holding the kiss for a moment before pulling back gently. He laughed quietly.

“You sure you want me around? I owe you for all this lost time.”

“You put up with Terrorbeak Love Services . I’m sure my brother didn’t make it easy on you.”

“No, he didn’t. But it was worth it.” He cupped her face in his hands, brushing her tears away with his thumb. “Look at you. So beautiful.”

Andrea blushed a little, nuzzling his hand, a quiet sound escaping her.

Robert grinned, kissing her head.

“I see you still purr like a cat.”

“Oh shush.” Andrea hugged him tightly, tucking her head under his chin. “You owe me extra hugs.”

“I do.” Robert looked over to the moon dial. “Especially since I know I interrupted your scrying.”

“In my looking glass and even the moon all I saw was you.”

He closed his eyes, keeping her close.

Even if he still had to get used to this world again, it was already home to him.

He was finally home as far as he was concerned.

Andrea smiled giving him a kiss on the cheek.

“Welcome home Robert.”

Robert nuzzled her, stroking her hair, sitting down in the grass, content to enjoy the last of the moonlight.

“It’s good to be home.”