Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction / Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction / InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Iliad ❯ Shame and Glory ( Chapter 6 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Clio's life changes for the better while Daphne just gets worse

Anime/Manga: Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction / Dragon Ball/Z/GT Fan Fiction / InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Drama / Hentai / Psychological / Romance | Type: Crossover | Uploaded On: 05.14.2009 | Pages: 12 | Words: 13.4K | Visits: 206 | Status: Work In Progress

Shame and Glory

The old adage seems to be true. Bad news often follows on the heels of good. After realizing I was carrying Sesshomaru's heir the initial burst of maternal joy faded to confusion and apprehension. Then this morning….

Daphne returned.

She stumbled through the doors and staggered down the steps barely making it to collapse on a sette. Tears streamed freely down her face. She didn't make a sound but her tears continued to fall. Kore, Harmonia, and I were instantly by her side. An initial glance of her person showed no bruising; at the very least she had not been beaten.

We held her and allowed her to just cry, we didn't press for details. After a while she looked up at me and whispered. “He tried to be a gentleman…he tried to allow me to enjoy it…but…I just…I…”

I finished her stutterings. “You just can't forgive.”

She nodded and bit her lip allowing her self to let out a small sob as her tears continued to fall. I wrapped my arms around my friend and held her close. Kore laid her head on her back and hummed soothingly.

At that moment I was not sure which one of us was stronger. Surely her strength of conviction is stronger then mine. It seemed at that moment that the prideful and strong willed demon woman I had once been was gone, replaced by a being; made tolerant and soft…

Yet…

I cannot bring myself to accept the loss of my fire. It can't be gone…

Not just because…because… I feel pride in the fact that I carry the child of the Western Lord. I have often wondered here in Lord Father's care how carrying the child of a man not my mate would feel. I know that I will have to fulfill my `duties' with more men…but…the idea of a child…the child of a lord…well that is more than I could have ever expected…before…

Holding Daphne like this and looking down at Kore I am even more sure that I will not lose my fire, but ever less sure of my thoughts on this child…and its father….

*~*~*~*~*~

Daphne too is with child…she is doubly cursed and blessed.

Blessed because now not Frieza nor any other man can threaten or bother her until the child is born.

Cursed because she cannot live with herself…not live with the thought that she carries a child not of her own choosing. Her spirit was already broken and now it lies in dust…

After being told the news she sits, silently staring at the ground. Persephone confides in me that she worries for the sake of the child after it's birth with Daphne in such a way. But I know…

I know she would never hurt the child and that she would raise it, but my wonder is could she ever love it…love it as Persephone loves Phoebe, as Selena loves Thalion.

As I will love my child….I vow here and now in the presence of such great sorrow that my children will be loved no matter their sire and that I will do my best to make sure they are happy and uncorrupted by Lord Father. In this way I will be far better a parent then mine were…

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

A few days turn into a few weeks and soon the curiosity of youngers over came their sensitivies and soon Vanessa, Diana, and surprisingly even Kore surrounded me as I saw with Persephone endeavoring to knit, a skill I had never been very proficient at. They stared at me as thought waiting for me to impart some secret wisdom. I raised an eyebrow at their penetrating gazes when Vanessa piped up with a catlike grin on her face.
“Sooooo….”

“So?” I questioned back mimicking her childlike actions.

“Come on! Tell us about your night encounter!” She asked excitedly curling up behind me to fit on the edge of the sette.

“VANESSA! Don't be crass!” Diana chastised. She looked at me with thos understanding eyes of hers and took my hand in a soft friendly embrace. “What she means is that Kore tells us you knew your guest.”

“That's not what I said! I said we knew OF him because he's a demon like us.” Kore corrected.

“We just wanted to know what he was like.” Diana continued.

Persephone lightly elbowed me with a catty grin on her face. “I think they just want to hear the juicy details.”

I chuckled good naturedly and Vanessa nodded her head enthusiastically in agreement. To be safe I made a careful glance around to make sure that Daphne was out of ear shot, hearing such mirth of my situation would only hurt her more.

“He is Daiyoukai no Nishi.” I explained in our language, chuckling at the blank looks I received. “He is the Demon Lord of the Western Lands.”

“Ooo! A lord!” Vanessa cooed.

I shook my head. I laugh even now as I write of the rapt attention I was receiving from these young maidens, my sisters.

“Yes, a very fine lord. He has always been as such even before these times. Tales of his strength and honor were like heroes legends to boys in our village.”

I paused as any good orator would in the telling of a grand story.

“And his good looks were widely talked of amongst every girl in the youkai.”

“His coloring was absolutely exotic. You two are the only demons I have met and yet he was so different from you both.” Diana observed.

I smiled absentmindedly touching my stomach. “Yes, his family's coloring is their mark of royalty. It is most rare.”

“What's he like?” Kore asked quietly, curiously.

“He provided surprisingly good conversation for a man so renown for letting his actions speak louder than his words, though mind you his actions DID speak for themselves….”

Kore blushed and Diana and Persephone smiled.

“So he was a masterful lover?” Vanessa questioned bluntly. Always to the point that nymph.

I smiled mischievously and pointed her with a disbelieving stare. “Yes. And honorable.”

“It saddened me to part company with him…” I added unthinkingly off in dreamlike haze.

Persephone grinned like a cat full of canary. “I would think when you say that that you were in love with the man?”

“Love?” I questioned sarcastically. “I should say not. Lust.” I elbowed Vanessa. “Appreciation perhaps. Only you can enjoy such a luxury Persephone.” I smiled.

“Mmhmm.” Persephone replied.

As I sit and recall our conversation I wish to convey how much I dearly appreciate my companions. How they can create such normalcy in a world so far from what it should be never ceases to amaze me. It is a welcome reprieve from the heaviness of my mind…

*~*~*~*~*~*~

The first three months of my pregnancy have flown by…the ailments that are associated with carrying a child trouble me little, as a demon the sickness is little, the aches are an annoyance at best. My hunger is becoming insatiable but I know this to be normal from all my mother once ate during her time with my youngers.

As of late I find myself feeling fonder of my niece and nephews. I know a fair bit about the rearing of children from living in this hall and from my life before…

As I sit here writing I find my eyes drawn to watch Phoebe giggle as she plays with one of the many toys her doting father brings her, not that any of these children father or not, lack for anything under Frieza's care….

Persephone too laughs with her daughter for no reason other than the joyous sound infects her happiness as well.

Thalion I can see is beginning to walk, his movements are rather unsure but such is his age, in not three months will the youngers be a year, Achilles is already two and quite the terror….to his mother too. ..

Selene watches nearby, near enough so that her fear is assuaged but not so close as to impede his independence. She smiles proudly at him. Such pride I cannot even begin to fathom.

Achilles and Heracles are quarrelling again, more alike that Achilles is taunting the poor child. Alcemene chides them and when she begins to lose her temper Achilles gives way and hugs her legs as though he were an angel and not the spawn of the devil himself, as if the horns weren't a constant reminder….

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

For the first time I was able to experience the other side of our captivity. Zarbon came to warn us of the impending visitor, Harmonia, Daphne and I were to be hidden away along with the children. Alcemene unthinkingly plopped Heracles into the frail arms of a dazed Daphne who only stood and stared for a moment until Harmonia who held a squirming Achilles touched her shoulder and slowly led her up the stairs to our rooms.

To my surprise I was left with Selene giving me a pleading look as she handed me Thalion who reached back for his mother. She kissed his little hands and walked over to my other sisters to join the line. Kore stared at me and I could see the fear in her eyes. This was the first she would have to stand without me before Frieza or his guests…

Even more shocking was what followed Zarbon and Persephone approached me with Phoebe. Zarbon handed her to me carefully and at that moment I carefully held both squirming bundles in my arms and looked quizzically at our master's most caring minion. “Take care of her, will you? Keep them all as quiet as you can.” I nodded in response knowing in that moment that I was being entrusted with more than his child, but the safety of all the children. The knowledge that this man, trusted someone such as I, with the safety of his child was staggering to say the least, but as a demon I bore it with ease I did not feel. Persephone smiled sadly at Persephone and then Zarbon, he squeezed her hands and left to retrieve the guest.

“Persephone…” I spoke firm but soft so as the others could not hear me.

She turned back to me with a soft question in her eyes. “Take care of them….” I let my meaning hang in the air around us. Although we all knew this kind of rhetoric meant nothing at our station such things were of little matter, the words alone meant something to our fading hearts.

I moved swiftly up the stairs and let myself into Harmonia's room and closing the door with a resounding click of the latch. Across the room Harmonia sat cooing to Achilles to try and quiet the noisy brat. Her tactics were not seeming to work, I quickly crossed the room and kneeled to eye length with the boy and giving him a glare any being young or old could understand placed my hand over his mouth and whispered “Shush.” His eyes widened and I found myself feeling a tad guilty as a tinge of fear filled the air, it was rare I smelled such an emotion anymore it was ever so common among the sisters, but a child's fear has a specially unpleasant scent…one I cannot bear. I give him a light pat on the head and poke his nose… I am becoming soft. Heracles is more behaved and curls up quietly in Daphne's arms comforted by the darkened room. Daphne simply stares at him blankly. She has no scent and even I can know longer tell what goes on inside her head.

I juggled both Thalion and Phoebe meanwhile I heard the large doors to our prison open.

I did not wish to think about Kore at that moment, I felt so helpless, more than I had ever felt since we were brought here….

I was pulled from my pitiful revelry by a small laugh. It came from my arms and when I looked down my heart became a thousand times lighter for it. Phoebe was giggling as she tried to grasp hold of one of Thalion's antennae he gurgles in protest and with a scowl I can only assume he inherits from his sire he swats her hands away…Phoebe just laughs.

I found myself smiling at their antics and I joined in their jostling and play before playfully shushing them with kisses on their heads.

Finally the door to the room opened to reveal Persephone she practically ran into the room plucking Phoebe carefully from my arms, relief evident in her eyes. “Hi baby.” She whispered. We all followed her out of the room and Selene too came to take Thalion from my arms kissing him on the cheek lovingly.

It was not till we were back down to the courtyard that Alcemene came for her brood. She seemed in a foul mood for not being chosen…Only she…

I was greatly comforted when Kore smiled at me and hugged me in her own reassuring way.

Harmonia was the first to notice who was missing…. “Where is Vanessa?”

Diana bit her lip nervously as she stared at Harmonia. Nothing needed to be said, it was question that didn't even really bear asking. We all knew the answer…

Our baby sister…had been chosen…

*~*~*~*~*~

Night has fallen and yet I do not believe that any of us sleep. We worry for young Vanessa…she is a nymph and never begrudges this existence other then to extol her great boredom, yet she is so young. She is not even 18 annuals…

I refuse to write a word about the injustice committed herein as such things are a constant in this life and under the rule of Lord Father…

On a separate subject…

I felt an unmistakable closeness with the children today. In that moment I knew the happiness in Persephone's laugh, in Selene's eyes. I knew in that second that I would love and adore my child when they come into this world. I will do everything in my power to make sure they are loved and safe as they can be. No more doubts, mo more questions. I have come to the same conclusion that Selene and Persephone did… I will be the mother they deserve.

It is as if I now know how to love…by instinct alone…

*~*~*~*~*~*~

Not two hours since my last entry and whilst lying awake in my bed, in a half sleep I felt the first stir of life from my child. It kicked, it was a firm kick that made me sit up and stare at my distended belly. I rubbed it soothingly hoping to sooth the tiny being inside, my worries must not be good for it. If I were a male demon I would know what gender my baby was going to be, but either way I felt immense pride when they kicked again, somehow I know it will be strong…

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Vanessa returned this morning and all were swarmed her in their worry. She simply sat down and stared quizzically off into space.

“Are you alright child?” Selene placed her hand carefully on her shoulder. Harmonia sat next to her grabbed her hand and held it tightly.

Vanessa simply turned to look at her and opened her mouth to speak but only succeeded in puckering like a fish. Then when she finally did speak she stuttered… “I….I…simply don't understand…that was nothing like imagined it…”

“Was it…painful..?” Diane asked carefully trying not show her own fear.

She shook her head her golden locks bouncing back and forth over her face. “Uh-uh…it was just boring…There was no romance, no passion, and I get the feeling it was over with far too quickly.”

Part of me wanted to laugh and the other part wanted to slap her for speaking so flippantly. In my condition my laughter won our and I was soon joined by Persephone and Alcemene.

Vanessa pouted at us. She motioned to Persephone and I and said, “You both had enchanting encounters with your guests, why don't I?”

I smiled and shook my head, “Vanessa not every man is romantic or enchanting, some seek only their own pleasure be glad at least he was not cruel.”

Vanessa hung her head a little. “I know. I just hope I pleased him, because I am not very pleased.” Harmonia chuckled and laid her head on Vanessa's shoulder with a smile.

We are all glad to have her back unharmed. No doubt she will sulk for many days about her disappointment.. It would seem she fancies an encounter like mine, enchanting and romantic she called it…well I cannot say it was not…

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Such busy times ahead…

This day is the second week since Vanessa's visitor. It also marks my six month term and in a week it will be Phoebe's birthday, not to mention that Achilles is now officially of age according to Lord Father to begin daily training.

Even as a demon I find this some what ridiculous. The boy is barely able to walk steadily at his 2 annuals. There is no denying he is strong. He can lift many things that no child should be able to and his aura from what I can gather with my own powers leashed promises great things as well.

Frieza has send his two strongest royal guardsmen to begin his training until he can find a more permanent and competent teacher for Achilles and all the boys…

It makes me think how if I had control of my own ki I could teach Phoebe, then maybe she could better defend herself against the likes within Lord Father's ranks. If my child is a girl I WILL teach her to fight even with what meager training I still possess.

As the birthday of our young three fast approach Vanessa has become anxious. She wonders at the possibility of a child of her own…

Since Thalion, Phoebe, and Heracles were all born in the same week we are having a grand party on the same day for all three of them. I am working on perfecting my drawing art by sketching portraits of them and of their mothers, they may not appreciate such things so young as they are, but some day…they will be precious…. Memories are…it is often all many have to comfort themselves….I find myself thinking of Daphne….

She sits melancholy beside Diana holding a spool of thread while Diana embroiders. Her stomach is rounded and we all make sure she eats well for the child's sake, but she has reverted to speaking very little…I suppose sheis lost in her memories. I wish fervently for her to be uplifted somehow…though I cannot fault her for her sadness, if I were a lesser being I too would succumb to such a feeling of hopelessness for this world I suppose…

Jeice has come to see her once or twice on his visits to the palace and he will surely be here for the birthday celebration…she does not look at him.

If circumstances were very different I would almost feel bad for him…almost…

He tries so hard to be a gentleman to her, I can see he is genuinely interested in their child, but she can only comment in passing, her excitement does not match his for obvious reasons…

Most of all I worry for the child…

Our children…the children of hate and pain….

*~*~*~*~

Today was the day of the children's grand celebration. As always we enjoyed the morning of the celebration for it was only us and the servants and we indulged in all the best foods, danced sang, and showered the children with love and gifts…

Strange to think it is not all that different from any other day in this respect…

Then came Lord Father and the Ginyu Force. Zarbon is our only welcome guest…

It is hard for him to show his affections for Phoebe and Persephone with Frieza and his other minions around…a weakness it is believed.

After Ginyu and Recoome successfully wound up their sons and Thalion had been adequately praised and all had been doted upon by Lord Father. He turned his sights on me and my pregnant sisters.

“My dears…how are you all feeling?”

“Well Lord Father.” We all said in unison. His eyes fell upon me and I feel their scrutiny burn through my skin, I have never shown Lord Father fear. I do not intend to begin now, now that I have a life to protect more than my own. I returned his look with one I hope matched his intensity and he smiled his cool smile. “Dear Clio, you have gotten quite large, I dare say you are bigger around then Harmonia and she is farther along then you.”

“It is because the child is strong.” I answered not missing a beat. It was what I knew he wanted to hear.

“Perhaps, you carry more than one, that would truly be a blessing for you?”

“I can only hope my lord.”

“I am very proud of the three of you. Such strong daughters I have.” He smirked as if he were privy to some private joke only he knew the punch line too. Then to my sheer horror he turned his gaze on Vanessa.

Vanessa who sat far away and slightly to herself for fear of this very moment no doubt, “How do you fair Vanessa?” He asked pretending he actually cares.

“Well my lord.” She said clearly though her eyes immediately found the floor after she spoke.

“Any news?” He prompted though he would know just as soon as we did if there were any that was prevalent to our `condition'.

She frowned and broke out. “None…sir..”

He frowned. “Well it would seem you have failed me.”

“Yes sire, but it will not happen again. I will try harder next time I promise!” She sputtered out her anxiety heightening at his hurtful words.

Frieza smirked again. “Very good….You are still very young Vanessa, perhaps the next guest you entertain will be more.. effective.”

She nodded hurriedly and I saw Harmonia lean over and take her hand in hers to keep her from shaking. Her odor of fear was so pungent to me and even Harmonia could feel it in the nymphling.

“Well then…before I go I have one more surprise.” Frieza turned to young Achilles and his smile made my skin crawl and at that moment I felt my baby kick…hard…as if it wanted out to defend me against the bearer of the eerie aura.

“I don't want Achilles to feel left out on this day so I have a present for him as well.”

He waved his hand and the guards opened the doors to our prison to reveal a man in a black spandex uniform, standard to many in Frieza's army, but without the breast plate, instead a strikingly clean and well cut blue over vest. He was the most fashionable man I had ever seen…

He had blood red eyes covered by oval framed glasses and black hair that hung partially in his face. He descended the stairs and bowed to Lord Father, he had black gloves covering his hands…there was something about him that was familiar to me…

“This will be the boys' new tutor. He will be leading the boys' studies in battle history and oversee their training… Allow me to introduce…Sebastian Michaels…”

At that moment I feared my eyes had bugged out of my head. First Lord Sesshomaru and now THE Sebastian Michaels…although not known by so formal a name he too is a Lord on our demon world. He is Lord of the Southern Land, the Dark Dwellers. Some of the most cutthroat demons of nightmare have hailed from there. As in awe as I was of Sesshomaru's legacy, that was to the extent of how terrified I was of this demon's infamy. He was the most dastardly of demons according to my mother's bedtime stories.

“He is a fellow demon.” Lord Father looked pointedly at Kore and I.

“He is privy too our situation and is eager to help all you ladies in any way he can. Your wish is his command…isn't that right…Sebastian?”

“Yes my lord.”

It was then I realized I had no reason to fear the imaginative stories of Lord Sebastian because I already lived with evil much worse…the being I call father…

“Sebastian, my good man, may I present my family…”

Sebastian stood up straight an almost pleasant.. smile on his face. He seemed to hone in on Kore and I because of our demonic blood.

“This is Kore and Clio.” Frieza played along with his gaze smiling his cold malicious smile. We curtsied. “Pleased to meet you Lord Sebastian.”

He stepped forward and took Kore's hand. “Please just call me Sebastian we're all friends here…What tribe do you ladies hail from?”

“The wind people.” Kore replied in a whisper very intimidated by our new brethren.

“A noble tribe for certain. A tribe that bears such beauties as yourselves can be none but the best.” His smiled widened and he bowed politely before turning and greeting each one of our sisters in turn. He was surprisingly charming and kind to Daphne which surprised me most of all. He stopped in front of young Achilles and looked him over. He inspected him to diagnose his potential though a two years old potential is not the same as his learning ability of this I am quite sure. And if he is Ginyu's son I doubt he has any learning capacity at all.

Sebastian still smiled however and after greeting the boy warmly announced his training would begin the following day.

Frieza was doubtless pleased as was Ginyu. How Sebastian's words were so important to them I no not why.

Soon they left us once again to our own devices. I can't help but to wonder about Sebastian…what will he be like tomorrow?

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The answer is interesting…

Sebastian arrived promptly this morning and although Achilles was by no means happy with waking up early or being separated from his mother, Sebastian managed to get him out onto the field. Most of us watched the training attentively, Alcemene especially. She'd never admit to it but I could see in her eyes she worried for her son being a warrior. I don't know what her home culture was like but it is not hard to tell it must have been one where mothers did not often lose their sons to battle.

Sebastian first accessed his strength, balance, and agility. As a two year old Achilles has little of the latter two although brute strength he was born with. Sebastian wasted no time on starting him on a basic workout to build balance and control. I was amazed as I watched Sebastian never got frustrated never frowned, he was always smiling and although critical, motivational as well. As I write this my child kicks at my stomach and I am proud that he will have such a teacher; a demon with patience and knowledge unparalleled. We have not seen his own skills yet, but I wager he is not one to brag or waste needless energy on pointless efforts. Every move he makes has purpose. I am eager to speak more with this enigma…

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

After Achilles' training was complete and he was thoroughly exhausted Sebastian joined us for our afternoon meal. He talked a little about his hopes for Achilles' training. Alcemene listened with exaggerated interest as Achilles slept exhausted in her lap next to his brother. After that he was quiet almost observant of us as we hate and had our small conversations about Phoebe's hair or joking about Thalion moving too fast for Selene to catch or asking how those of us who are pregnant are feeling. All mundane topics but there is little we can talk about freely in our world…especially with an unqualified outsider….

As usual Persephone, Alcemene, and Selene were busy hustling up the children for bed. Little Phoebe always insists on kissing each of her aunts good night. It is a ritual I find endearing. She even kisses my belly and in baby talk says, “Night Baby.”

I kiss her and repeat her words back to her before Persephone took her off to bed. As I was rubbing my distended belly lovingly I noticed Sebastian carefully watching me from across the marble.

I looked up at him and he walked closer to me bowing his head respectfully. “How fairs the Daiyoukai's heir?” He asked.

I blinked at him in surprise until I realized that he was a demon himself. “I supposed I shouldn't be surprised, you are a demon after all.”

He gave me a worried look for a moment before asking, “My lady with your ki so subdued how is it that the child receives any energy?” He motioned to my bracelets.

I smiled sadly as I rubbed my belly bump. I knew that my baby could very well be draining me of vital energy, but I never told a soul… “Well baby takes a little bit of energy from my sisters and anyone else who's around enough. I don't think anyone notices.”

“It is dangerous for you my lady.”

“Call me Clio, and I admit I feel a bit tired, but it is not as if I do anything strenuous here. If you have not noticed I have all the time in the world here for rest.”

He shrugged his shoulders and made a sign with his hands in mock surrender then leaned towards me and asked, “May I?”

I knew what he asked for and I granted it.

He placed his hand on my belly and fed the baby some of his ki. It was enough to ensure the baby's continued health and mine as well. I felt the way I had back, back before my ki restraining cuffs were on…it seems like forever now…although naught but a day in demon history.

“Thank you.”

“Think nothing of it my lady. It is the least I can do for a fellow demon and lord.”

“Clio.” I corrected again with a smile.

He chuckled. “Forgive me, old habits die hard.”

As one of the oldest living demons of our world he no doubtedly had more reason then any of us to become the emotionless monster most non demons characterized us as. But I could have sworn I heard a subtle hitch in the way he said `die'.

“Lord…I mean Sebastian”, I started teasingly trying to lighten the mood. “How is it you came to be in Frieza's employ if you don't mind me asking?”

He looked at me with a small smirk although his eyes betrayed a tint of sadness.

“No at all. I actually haven't been on demon world for almost 3 decades. I suppose its my legend alone that keeps me in power if only in name.”

I was a little surprised by this since I had never even heard so much as a rumor that the great and terrible Sebastian had ever left our world. He knelt down next to me to continue his tale we were set away from the others but I would wager he wanted no one but me to hear it. A fact that struck me as odd.

“I became intrigued of a humanoid child in that time. He was such like I'd never seen before and I indulged my interest by binding myself to him for his lifespan.” His gaze turned from me for a moment. “At first it was only hunger that drew me to him.” His eyes turned back to me with an almost uncertain look in them…

It is no secret that demons of the Dark realms feast on human souls or flesh to nurture themselves. Many demons have strange diets, the wind people are one of the rare kinds that don't but I do know that dog demons have a taste for raw meat…I know this all to well because I am forced to eat it at times when my child is hungry for it. It is not so bad, but I am sure if I were not pregnant I would not find it so…

“If you were expecting me to be shocked Sebastian you have been with the humans for too long.”

He smiled softly and nodded before continuing. “But then, his entire philosophy of life was so intriguing if a little misguided. I decided to try and guide him. Whether it was right to indulge a humanoid in the ways of demon logic I know naught. Well the boy survived much longer then expected and it was in his early years of adulthood that Frieza first made his appearance in our world.” Sebastian made a long pause that I was sure was from some kind of inner turmoil a seasoned demon would never portray outright.

“Somehow, even after 3 decades of relative anonmynity they found me. I think…it will always haunt me…that his death was because of my proximity to him not his own folly as I always thought it would be. Even I couldn't protect him… When Lord Frieza saw the boy…the man…his skills…his words…and me by his side…he was somewhat impressed I suppose.”

He stopped again and closed his eyes, it must have been an incredibly painful memory if it effected him so. I almost felt bad for asking…

“Frieza challenged me to a fight…and after he had…assessed my skills as I would learn later was what he was really doing, he killed my charge…in cold blood. But not before he forced the boy to turn over my control to him. I was unable to stop him. Now I have no choice but to obey Frieza's command.”

I placed a hand on his shoulder. “You are not alone in that my friend.” I whispered. He looked up at me and placed his hand over mine in a friendly gesture.

“I've never had friends.”

“Well for those who have nothing left friendship is the only refuge in this world.” I stated trying to sound optimistic but the words came out more defeated then I wanted them too.

“And motherhood.” He added looking pointedly at my stomach.

I nodded and smiled. He was right I would not trade my child for my freedom…not for anything would I give up this part of me. I find myself trapped in a mixture of excitement and apprehension at the coming birth of my child. I wonder if it is what all mothers experience…I truly hope so it would be one of the few normalcies of our existence in Frieza's palace dungeon.

*~*~*~*~*~*~

Harmonia's due date is close at hand and she is apprehensive but even still her proud smile never waivers. Her own apprehension fuels mine and I have become more susceptible to my mood swings of late. Luckily there are enough guards around to take out my anger swings on. Lord Father does not object to my physical or verbal bashing of his men because he knows it is a natural part of my pregnancy, I'm not sure my anger would stop even if he willed it so anyway….

My most common swings in mood are from angry to nervous. Kore and Persephone due their best to calm my nervousness and Sebastian too is a great help, when he is not training young Achilles he is providing stimulating conversation and amusement to us. Somehow he knows exactly what to say to calm my erratic mood swings. Even Kore is not so proficient at deciphering my feelings…I asked Sebastian how it was he knew such things about pregnant youkai and he said that after a few hundred years of running across them he had developed a wealth of knowledge in regards to the subject.

A ruthless demon lord he may be, but Sebastian had an interest and great knowledge for many subjects, the perfect teacher….

To all of us I dare say…

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

This morning Harmonia went into labor. She let out a gut wrenching scream at breakfast because the new pain of contractions was unexpected and came upon her much quicker and fiercer then it did upon our sisters. Once the medics helped her to her room with Vanessa in tow the screaming subsided some what.

The decision to allow Vanessa to go with her had been discussed amongst Harmonia, Persephone and I long before this day. Vanessa is young but Harmonia wanted her to be there and Persephone and I agreed it might be a good reality for Vanessa to face and Vanessa surprisingly readily agreed, her heart is bigger then we give her credit for sometimes because of her youth and vanity…

*~*~*~*~*~*~

Only occasionally screams are heard, but it has been many hours and the random screams and the slow passage of time is taking its toll upon many, especially Daphne. She sits between myself and Kore curled up in a protective position as best she can with her rounded belly. She must be fighting her reality with ever fiber of her being, but she never says a negative word against Jeice or her child or even towards her situation, I can't believe after all she's been through that she has come to accept it, but is internally fighting it. Only time will truly tell….

Kore and I hug her to us as we listen to Harmonia's cacophony of screams as she fights to bring her child into the world.

It would seem that my child feels the worry and tension as well for it kicks and moves constantly this day.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

As the night falls upon the windows of the observatory so to does a content silence we have not felt since the sun's rise. Harmonia has finally given birth to a beautiful baby girl…named Naira.

She is a sweeting, so quiet yet with the biggest eyes, with such clarity, the biggest surprise is that she has three of them. Three lavender eyes and a tuft of red hair the same as her mother's.

Persephone worries herself over the fact the child is a girl, she worries more for Harmonia's sake. She confides in me that she feels her Phoebe only survived for Zarbon's love, but she fears Frieza will not make such exceptions for Naira. It would destroy her and Harmonia no doubt, if it were the case, and I do not put it past lord Father to do such a thing…

But even with the shroud of worry that falls upon us, Naira is so beautiful a baby that no one speaks a word of it, Harmonia is so happy no one dares.

Vanessa is proud as a peacock for being there to help her nymph sister through the labor and dotes on both mother and child shamelessly with compliments.

After all of the sisters had seen the baby and assured themselves of Harmonia's health and happiness I suggested that the babies be allowed to meet Naira. Our children are the only friends each other will have in this world or the world outside and it is prudent for their security that they care and accept each other it is also important for their happiness…something which I would not trade for the world.

Achilles was not very interested in the baby but Thalion, Phoebe, and Heracles were seemingly amazed by their smaller cousin. The little one was just as curious as her clear eyes widened and she reached a tiny hand forward grasping Thalion's antennae and pulling. Thalion squeaked and pulled back glaring at the baby but Phoebe just laughed.

Selene chuckled. “It seems my son's antennae are a source of fascination for all the ladies.”

Heracles however did not learn from Thalion's mistake and moved closer to Naira who grasped his horn before Harmonia could stop her. However the grab seemed to bother Heracles more than Naira who sniffed and grunted before pulling away. We all laughed at that. Naira will be a strong girl, I can tell.

Lord Father came not long after the other children were put to bed, he had not been notified that it was a girl only that he had another grandchild. I could tell from the look in his eyes he was not impressed, but he somehow held off a full fledged sneer. He merely nodded in recognition of Harmonia and touched a claw to Naira's head. He stared at her for a moment before turning his back to leave and saying, “I suppose another girl is not a horrible fate…considering who the father is…but, don't let it happen again my dear.”

He walked out of the room to the sound of Harmonia's terrified whisper. “Yes, my lord.”

It seems every happiness in our house is followed by a ten fold fear, we cannot avoid…

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The waiting has become unbearable for me…it is only a week until my due date…

I anticipate it with my every breath hating the wait but dreading it all at once. There are some many thoughts running through my mind. Will it be a girl or a boy? Will it look like its father? If it does how will I feel? Will they be strong? Strong enough to protect themselves from Lord Father?

I worry myself into silence with these thoughts, Diana keeps asking me if I am breathing, I become so still.

I would never speak these words allowed to another soul, but I am afraid…

Even now surrounded by my dear sisters….

Kore and Diana joke quietly next to me trying to draw me into their banter with teasing sarcasm I cannot usually let pass without a witty retort, but now I am more concerned for my child, I find my hand wandering to my stomach more often then not, longer for a kick or a movement to reassure me of its' safety and health. My sisters are relentless with their distractions. Even the children it seems can feel the tension and are doing their best to cheer me.

Sebastian is here this morning and as he teaches Achilles, Heracles tries to mimic his big brother's actions not really succeeding since he is so young and he would rather wrestle with his eternal playmates. I can see them now laughing on the green. Even Persephone finds sport in their baby tussles. I do not understand Frieza's policy against fem__~

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

I write now in the early morning hours, barely able to put pen to paper with any success as I stare hypnotized at the face of my beautiful baby boy…my son…

He is so beautiful, so perfect, I can scarcely bring myself to look away from him for fear that he will disappear, like he's not real…but he's so very real to me…I knew it the moment I laid eyes on him, he is my world…

One so much more beautiful and promising then the one I am from

I was in the midst of writing this morning when I looked over to see Phoebe get flipped by Heracles on accident, she hit the ground kind of hard and before she could even let out a cry I felt a sharp pain in my stomach which caused me to drop my quill.

I twinged and the pain and let out a hiss in surprise, because Diana and Kore were so close they immediately were at my side.

The pain subsided for a few seconds and then returned with a vengeance. I gasped when it returned and that's when I knew it was nearing that time. I looked up to see Kore and Diana lifting me up and helping me to my room I looked back for just a moment to make sure Phoebe was fine and sure enough she sat more interested in my predicament than her own. Selene raced off to a guard to fetch the medical team and Persephone and Victoria raced up the stares to assist me into bed.

The sharp pain was slowly starting to become regular after a while and by the time the medical team arrived all were ushered out but Kore immediately. My son wanted to be born and he wanted to be born soon.

Kore stared worriedly at me and I felt as though her worry permeated my own so I just grasped her hand tightly and refused to look at her instead I stared incredulously at the doctor who examined me and told me it would be just a little while till I could start pushing.

The pain at that point was like a stabbing shock throughout my abdomen, it wasn't the most horrible pain I've felt as a demon, but it was surprising because of its coming and going.

Finally the pain just stayed and I knew instinctively it was time. I thought once the pain concentrated itself in my lower abdomen I could handle it, block it out and focus on the task at hand, but as soon as I started pushing the pain throbbed throughout my entire to parts previously unknown and back again, I let out a growl and squeezed Kore's hand so hard she had to lay herself half on the bed to avoid losing her limb.

Later she would tell me I looked so determined that she wasn't sure the growls were from pain or from instinctual focus.

They were most definitely from the pain, I was literally being ripped apart from the inside out by this tiny boy next to me, but she's right I was determined, determined to be strong for him, to see him, to make my lord proud…

After what felt like forever but was really only a few hours I gave one final push with all my strength and I was rewarded with a strangled cry followed by a more steady whine. I found renewed strength in that cry and sat back up on my elbows watching the medical team clean up the baby. Once the doctor finished with me making sure all was well and the baby was looked over and cleaned I finally got to see my beautiful son face to face. The moment he was in my arms the whining ceased as though he knew it was me, his mother.

Me a mother.

He has his father's face but my complexion. I was delighted to find a small tuft of brown hair on his head. At least he got a few things from me. He also had elvin ears and a blue crescent moon upon his brows and when his eyes finally opened to light upon me I let out a gasp of disbelief at his pure golden eyes. I chuckled to stop myself from crying, I wanted to cry because I was overjoyed that this little life was safe and healthy that he was a perfect mix of his father and I and yet I wanted to cry out at the unfairness, of my child being born without his father, a father who would never know he had a son with his eyes….

Even still I knew I could never love more than I did at that very moment the moment I held and kissed my little son. I knew, I knew why Selene, Persephone, Harmonia all had never regretted this day. I never would.

Kore smiled at me her eyes twinkling with our shared happiness and our tears. She sat beside me on the bed and hugged me around the shoulders. “He's beautiful Clio. I knew any baby of yours had to be the most beautiful I've ever seen.” I smiled at her and we nudged our foreheads together in a long time show of our eternal friendship. I was glad she was with me, she had been my friend for as long as I could remember and even though I wouldn't wish this life on her I was so happy that she was there with me to share that moment I would have chosen no one else. “Well thank you,” I replied. “But I'm sure you're babies will be just as handsome.” I sat back a little and held up my cooing son proudly and said,

“Kore, meet my son, Katsuo.”