!WARNING! PLEASE READ! WARNING! PLEASE READ!

Given the fact that the content of this entry is both controversial and sensitive, I feel obligated to issue out a few warnings:

1) My OCs beliefs DO NOT reflect my own. I simply portray them accordingly.

2) How I portray CANON characters to react to the issue IS NOT FACTUAL. Neither character, whether on the show, books, or graphic novels have ever dealt with this issue, so I can ONLY SPECULATE on how they would respond. Therefore, please be mindful and open to differing opinions.

3) There is a Bible reference in this. If your religion differs from this, please don't be offended. Your individual beliefs and faith are NOT being belittled or degraded in any way. Please read at your own discretion.

Overall, everyone, just have fun like always. Just remember that before you comment, be mindful, be courteous, be respectful, and most of all be mature. Also, SPOILERS AHOY!

Theme Fourteen:To protect those who cannot protect themselves…

After a quick rummage through her drawer, Nya pulled out one of her spare pregnancy tests. Exhaling softly, she turned around and offered it to Sasha. Sasha stared at it without taking it, biting her bottom lip.

"Do you really think you could be pregnant?"

Both young women shifted their attentions from the test to the voice. Ebony stood a few feet away along with Ayane, her arms crossed and her face neutral. Russet garnet eyes pierced platinum orbs accusingly, causing the red-head to frown and avert her gaze. And unwittingly, it landed right back on the test in Nya's hand.

"I don't know. I really don't. Cole and I only talked about the possibility briefly while in Monsoon."

"Why didn't the two of you use protection?" Ebony's tone was flat and frank as always.

Sasha had to stifle an eye roll. Knowing it was just Ebony being Ebony. "Because we didn't need to use protection. I told you all I've been on birth control since I was twelve. I don't have periods. My chemistry's all fucked up."

"Regardless, you still should've used protection like I'd suggested," Ebony pressed. "For it is the necessary and responsible precaution to take in such situations."

Sasha whipped her head to the Aga half-breed, her eyes narrowed dangerously and her fists clenched at her sides. "Don't talk to me like I'm some sorta juvenile delinquent, Ebony," she snapped furiously. "And for your information, Poseidonia wasn't the only time Cole and I had sex. We also did it in Temblor—at his dad's."

This came as news to all the Kunoichi.

"Temblor? You mean during that time before the Amaterasu festival?" Ayane asked. "When the two of you had to leave again because of the disappearance of Cole's brother?"

"Yeah. Though it kinda happened out of the blue. I mean, I wasn't really expecting him to want to…" Feeling some of the steam leave her, Sasha redistributed her weight to her other side, placing a hand on her hip. Her temper cooled in retrospect, remembering the somber reunion between father and son. Cole had been so stressed that night after getting the details from Lou: pacing his room and blaming himself for his brother's disappearance from the Marty Oppenheimer. Sasha had begged him to get some rest, but of course he didn't. She even had to stop him a few times from just leaving and rushing off to look for Dante blindly, and without even telling his father.

And when she had finally got him calm enough to at least sit, she had been on the verge of finding sleep. It had been then when he had slipped under the covers with her and had brought her close to his body. Sasha still remembered that one whispered plea in her ear from her fiancé. And even though she had been tired, she had known right then and there that she couldn't refuse him. Especially not if it would help him to rest afterwards. And now after all that has happened, Cole had just received a lead from his father about Dante's whereabouts. That he could possibly be located in Twilight City.

"This is horrible," Ebony groused, grimacing. "This is definitely something we don't need right now."

Sasha felt something in her snap. But before she could lash out at the other kunoichi, Nya blocked her path with an outstretched arm. The Kunoichi of Wind leveled her own frown at Ebony. "We don't even know if she's pregnant or not, Ebony," she rationalized. "So why are you jumping down her throat?"

"Oh don't be foolish, Nya," Ebony countered plainly. "Anyone could deduce that the mere notion of a baby on the way from any of us would be a burden on the clan, not a relief."

A spike of incredulous fear ripped through Sasha's body at the Kunoichi of Darkness's cynical and blunt tongue. Eyes wide and unblinking, she covered her mouth with her hand and took a shaky step back. Then another…and another, until the back of her legs hit the edge of Nya's bed, from which she unceremoniously flopped down onto it.

"Sasha!" Nya quickly kneeled down in front of the distressed Brazilian and tried to comfort her. "Sasha, it's okay. Really, it is. We don't know anything yet."

"That's not true, Ebony," Ayane chimed in, peering at her fellow kunoichi disapprovingly.

"Ugh…and here comes the exception…"

Ayane pursed her lips. "The coming of new life could never be seen as a misfortune or burden."

"Says Funshine Bear…"

Nya abruptly stood and whirled on the white-haired female, leaving the pregnancy test beside Sasha. "What is wrong with you?! No matter what happens—if there is or isn't a baby—we should be supporting her! But here you are—as usual—being a fuckin' doomsayer!"

"I am supporting her! In my own way! But forgive my integrity and not sugarcoating everything like the two of you are doing! Believe me that I would be more than optimistic about this circumstance if Ninjago were at peace. But it's not! Lloyd and Dominique are missing! The Serpentine are getting stronger and more conniving! My father is roaming free and doing God knows what! And now more than likely, Cole's going to have us return to Twilight in order to look for his brother, instead of looking for the ones that actually matter! Lloyd and Dominique! So you tell me, Nya—no both of you, is this really just the perfect time to announce a pregnancy?"

A dead silence was Ebony's answer as no one said anything, understanding the truthfulness of her logic. And taking a breath, Ebony continued in a more subdued tone. "Sasha is our leader. And if she becomes burdened with an unborn child, then make no mistake we will lose a very valuable member of our team. And we can't afford to, because our clan is small enough as it is and there's just too much that needs to be done."

Nya massaged her temple with a grimace etched across her lips, exhaling a huff. "Yes, Ebony, I get that. We all get that. But still—"

Ebony raised a hand. "I know. But if she is…it'll be her decision on whether or not to keep it." An even heavier tension permeated the room at Ebony's ominous words. "And it goes without saying what would be the safest route if she is."

Sasha stiffened and gritted her teeth painfully, clenching her knees in her hands and digging her nails into her skin. Ayane gasped, shocked and appalled. "Ebony! Do you really think getting an abortion is safe?!"

"*sigh*…Here we go again…"

"Getting an abortion is a risk in itself! Not to mention a flat-out sin!"

"Regardless, Ayane, there's an equal risk if Sasha were to keep the child. It has been deemed long ago that women's lot in life was to bear the pain of child birth. And furthermore, please elaborate on how abortion can be considered a sin? When all you're doing is getting rid of a group of cells? Barely even an embryo?"

A fire ignited within the female archer's dual-colored orbs. "The Celestial's tome clearly states throughout that whether or not a child is born or unborn they are considered an innocent life! And to take an innocent life is a sin!"

Ebony cocked a white eyebrow dubiously at Amaterasu's daughter. "An innocent life? Doesn't it state that taking any life is a sin? Which makes us all sinners here. Don't try to twist the Good Book's terms to justify your own actions, Ayane. Don't be a hypocrite."

Ayane recoiled as if slapped. "What are you talking about? I'm not!" She yelled brusquely. "We, Shikians, hunt to feed ourselves and our families, whilst preserving the land and maintaining the balance! And we kill our enemies to protect those who can't protect themselves! That is the very creed of this clan!"

"Perhaps," Ebony shrugged, nonplussed. "But it's still justification."

"Can we please just get back on track without bringing religion or whatever into this!?" Nya snapped, glaring at the Light and Dark kunoichi. "Ayane, I get what you're saying, but many women get abortions for valid reasons, especially rape victims. Sometimes it's just not the right time to bring a child into the world. It all depends on the woman, her beliefs, and her circumstance."

Ayane shook her head, her sky-blue and mint-green eyes misty with obstinate tears. "No. It's just wrong. I'd never take a life of a child. I just couldn't."

"Fine," Nya placated gently. "All I'm saying is that we shouldn't get worked up over a mere possibility and fill Sasha's head with our own two-cents," she ended, giving a pointed look at Ebony.

Ebony rolled her eyes once before sneering at Nya. "Tch, I only say what the two of you are afraid to say. Sasha is a grown woman, not a child that needs to be protected from the harshness of reality. She needs to be made aware of the bevy of consequences and repercussions she would face if the pregnancy test proves to be positive."

Three sharp raps suddenly came from the door, diverting the three kunoichi's attentions. Cole's voice carried through the barrier. "Hey, what's going on? Is Sasha in there? We heard yelling."

Nya quickly looked back to her best friend's pained expression and rigid posture on her bed before addressing Cole. "Uh yeah, she's in here." Not really sure what to do at this juncture, she sighed in acquiescence. "…Come on in."

At once, the door opened and the Ninja filed in with Cole in the lead. His viridian gaze immediately found Sasha and accessed her turtle-shelled disposition worriedly. Even though he didn't know exactly what had happened, for Sasha to be in such a state of duress, it had to have been stressful. Thus, shooting each kunoichi a withering glare, he made his way to her. But before Cole could take a seat beside her, he took astute notice of the rectangular-shaped pink and blue box lying purposefully beside his fiancée.

His eyes widened a fraction as he picked it up. He looked from it to Sasha wordlessly, the gears in his head already turning and formulating the reason as to why she was so downtrodden. The package hadn't been opened, so she hadn't used it yet. So then, she was scared. As he knew she would be, since she had expressed such concerns back in Monsoon yesterday. And most likely Nya, Ebony, and Ayane had said some things to worry her even more.

Still silent, he took his place beside her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. Nya tried to salvage the situation. "Listen, Cole, it's not what you think. Things just got a little heated that's all. We—"

"I don't wanna hear it, Nya," Cole interjected stoically, keeping his gaze on Sasha's saddened countenance. "I had expected everyone to have differing opinions about the subject. But nonetheless, I had also expected everyone to show their support."

Ebony's expression darkened as she cut her russet garnet gaze to the Clan Head. "Our current situation is a critical one, Cole. Surely you of all people can understand the folly of having a pregnant clan member at this point and time—"

"Enough!" Cole shouted, jerking his head towards Ebony. The power of his voice created enough resonance to reverberate off the walls. "Now I would like all of you to please leave. I need to be alone with her for a while."

Ebony was the first to move soon after, turning on her heel and exiting her shared room without a glance or a word. "Ebony?" Kai called to his girlfriend softly, but the Aga half-breed didn't stop. Kai hurriedly rushed after her. Ayane was next, a frown on her face and her eyes wet with angry tears. Her gaze locked with Zane's sympathetic one and he held out his hand for her to take. She took it with only a moment's hesitation, the tears finally falling down her cheeks. And together, the pair left the room.

Nya didn't budge. "Cole, this isn't fair. Sasha's my best friend and I want to be here with her."

"I'm aware of that, Nya. And you will. I'm only asking you to give me this," Cole said, trying his best to compromise. "You can wait right outside if you want. I just… I just wanna be the first one to know."

Nya looked ready to fire back a retort when Jay placed his hand on her shoulder. "Sweetheart, it's okay," he soothed gently. "C'mon, we'll be right outside. That way we'll be the first to know if Sasha decides to book it to get away from Cole's halitosis."

Nya quirked an eyebrow at her fiancé while Cole looked downright indignant. But to everyone's surprise, Sasha's lips upturned into a rueful grin as she breathed a weak chuckle. No matter how miniscule it was, the three were relieved to get a positive response from the kunoichi leader, and Nya's defensive body language seemed to unwind at her friend's show of joviality. She matched Sasha's grin with one of her own.

"Okay. Thanks, Jay." She then turned to her best friend. "Sasha, I'll be right outside the door. So just holler if you need me, okay?"

When Sasha nodded her thanks, Nya grabbed Jay's hand and left the room, with Jay reaching frantically out behind him in order to close the door. Now alone, Earth and Water sat in a contemplative silence. Cole rubbed Sasha's shoulder in a languid and comforting manner, and Sasha scooted closer and leaned her head against his in response.

"Sasha…"

"I'm okay…thanks. But I think I've procrastinated long enough." She lifted her head and turned to regard Cole fully, and he did the same. "There's no use worrying about something that may or may not exist. We need to find out…" Comprehending, Cole handed Sasha the pregnancy test. Sasha stared at the test in her hand, getting lost in her own tumultuous thoughts once again. But then promptly shook her head and stood up from the bed.

Cole rose as well. "Sasha." He took hold of her hand—the one grasping the test—and brought her back to him. He rested his brow against hers and met her wide-eyed and slightly apprehensive gaze with his own intense one. Cupping her cheek with his other hand, he leaned in and kissed her amorously. He took her lower lip betwixt his and suckled briefly before swallowing the moan that came from her parted lips from his gratuitous action. The kiss deepened quickly, opened-mouth and tongue-tango.

When they parted, Sasha panted as she stared up at him. "Wha… What was that for?" She asked breathlessly.

And Cole simply smiled at her, calm, cool, and collected. "I think you know."

With her heart continuing to thump loudly in her chest, Sasha gawked at him. Until…realization slowly dawned and reassured her troubled mind and heart. However brief it was, Cole had assured her in Monsoon wholeheartedly of his willingness to stand by her side through anything—to be her rock of everlasting support and dedication. Subsequently, it should come to no surprise that he was doing just that.

With her emotions still on the fritz, Sasha fought back the sting of tears and embraced Cole tightly, wrapping her arms around his neck. "We'll be okay, won't we…?" She asked, her voice a wavering mess.

The black ninja's strong hands rested on the small of her back as he turned his head and pressed a kiss into Sasha's hair. "Yeah, we will… No matter what the outcome, we will."

Parting once more, Sasha met her beau's gaze with as much strength as she could muster, smiled, and turned to enter the bathroom. When the door clicked shut behind her, Cole remained standing, his eyes locked on the door to the room that housed his future.

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Outside the door of Nya and Ebony's room in the hallway, Jay and Nya stood on either side of the door acting as sentries of sort. Both were quiet for a time, each absorbed in their own thoughts about the situation. Nya folded her arms and propped her foot up against the wall. She exhaled quietly before turning her attention to her fiancé.

Jay wore pensive frown as he stared at the ground, a thumb grazing over chin as he pondered. There was a pregnant pause as Nya watched him a moment more. Then, she tentatively opened her mouth. "Jay…what do you think about all this?"

Somewhat jarred from his brooding, Jay turned wide sapphire eyes to Nya. "Oh uh…" He ran a hand through his long bangs and gave a small half-smile. "To be honest…regardless of us being a clan, this ultimately isn't any of our business. Cole and Sasha are two consenting adults in a relationship. So it's only natural that they get to decide when they want to bring kids into the world. It's part of being an adult."

A crinkle of worry touched Nya's brow. "Are you saying you don't want to be a part of the baby's life if Sasha's pregnant?"

"No, that's not it," Jay replied, shaking his head. "All I'm saying is we're allowed to give our opinions about the matter. But since we have no say in the final decision, there's no reason to get upset about it. I personally believe that either or is fine." He shrugged. "There's no harm done if she isn't. And if she is, we simply keep doing what we've been doing: supporting her. That's not gonna change just because she has a little one inside her."

A truer smile stretched across Jay's comely pink lips as he leaned back against the wall and directed his gaze straight ahead, a peaceful and cheerful aura surrounding his being. "Cole has a lot on his plate, sure… But I can't picture him abandoning Sasha. He's way too responsible and love-struck for that nonsense. And Sasha… She's had her ups and downs, but she's a strong lady…" his mouth suddenly twisted into a crooked smirk as he winked over at Nya from his peripheral, "…have to be in order to keep you three dragonesses in check."

Nya laughed lightly, her brown orbs twinkling with both love and mirth at the blue ninja. "Jay…"

Jay let loose a few chortles himself before sobering up. "But nah, it's all good. And besides, I think we'd make some kickass godparents, sweetheart. And…maybe it'd serve for some good practice, yanno…?"

Jay bowed his head and cleared his throat a bit awkwardly. But despite the slight obstruction of his bangs, Nya could still make out the faint blush lighting his cheeks, which in turn caused her own cheeks to glow. A sweet joy encompassed her then and she found herself being drawn to the man by her side. She curled her arms around his waist and rested her head against his chest, comforted further by the loud throb of his heart.

"Yeah," she sighed happily, still blushing, "it would be. But you know…I understand where Ebony was coming from…"

Jay returned the embrace with a lazy smile, but his expression turned a bit rueful again at the mention his little sister/student. "Yeah, me too. Lil' Eb's just trying to protect everyone in her own way. Just like she did yesterday… Can't fault her for that."

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"Ayane, are you alright now?"

After exiting Nya and Ebony's quarters, Zane had led his girlfriend to the safe haven of his room, wanting some alone time with her, as well as to figure out the reason behind her tears without interruption. They now sat on Zane's bed with Ayane dabbing at her eyes with the ice ninja's handkerchief.

Ayane sniffed and exhaled a shaky breath as she tried to compose herself. Her heart still throbbed painfully from what had transpired in her sisters' room, but at least her tears had stopped pouring down her face. She lightly fiddled with the handkerchief in her hands before lifting her forlorn gaze to the nindroid beside her.

"I'm okay *sniff*… Thanks, Zane."

"Dearest…" Seeing Ayane's sorrow always made Zane a little melancholic himself, and he cupped her cheek tenderly in his hand. "Please, tell me what happened?"

Eyes downcast, the light kunoichi leaned into Zane's touch for comfort. "Oh…it's just Ebony," she began with a heavy sigh. "I'm more than used to her lack of tact and bluntness by now. But what she said was just too callous—even for her."

Zane furrowed his brow a bit. Though he had heard what the Master of Darkness had espoused upon him and his brothers' entrance into her and Nya's quarters', he wasn't sure if that particular statement was the cause of Ayane's sadness. Thus, he decided to delve deeper.

"And what exactly did she say?"

Ayane suddenly closed her eyes, a frown marring her pretty features. It was like just recalling the words said by her kunoichi sister had left her vexed and angry. "That the very idea of a baby on the way would be a hindrance on the clan, not a celebration…because of the—because of the trials and tribulations we're facing," the archer struggled to utter. "That… That if Sasha is pregnant…than the safest course of action to take would be an abortion—to kill the child that had barely even begun to live."

Abortion…? Oh, I see… Zane slowly let his hand fall from Ayane's face to let it rest on her knee. He then regarded the sullen kunoichi earnestly. "Your ideologies aside, Ayane, Ebony's logic is sound. It would be far too dangerous for Sasha to be pregnant as of now. Our enemies are great in number, while we are few. Thus, every able body of our clan is integral to ensure the safety of Ninjago."

Ayane just stared at him, eyes wide in disbelief. And reassuringly, Zane continued. "And don't worry. You may not have known, but during the early stages of pregnancy, the gathered cells have not developed into a fetus yet. Thus, Sasha would not be killing a child just…" the ice ninja trailed off, bewildered. "…Ayane…?"

Her eyes still wide and unblinking, tears gathered and rolled down the Shikian's cheeks. Dumbfounded, it was now Zane's turn to stare. What had he said? Surely Ayane understood—

"How… How could you say that…?" It was a whispered plea. One that struck loudly in Zane's ears. "And…my ideologies…aside…? You think it's just my…wishful thinking to want…to want to preserve…a child's life…?"

Zane gave a start. "N-No! I just wanted to establish neutral ground. I wasn't belittling your way of thinking or anything, Ayane. I was only trying to express my understanding of Ebony's reason—" Zane stopped short and roughly shook his head, realizing the metaphorical thin ice he was currently treading. "Uh…this is all speculation and conjecture, as we don't know if she's even pregnant—"

Ayane abruptly stood and whirled on him. "And if she is?!" She yelled, indignant and distressed. "If Sasha really is pregnant, are you saying you would advise her to get an abortion just because we're going through hard times?!"

"Ayane," Zane regarded his distraught girlfriend patiently, "I understand you're emotional, and that abortion sounds terrible to you. But you must broaden your views, moy angel. These are not just 'hard times' we are facing. As of now, we cannot just think about ourselves. Ninjago is the main protectorate and as such, must be considered in all of our decisions to ensure its safety. Our clan stands as an invaluable line of defense and we must not falter in that responsibility. We must do our utmost to maintain our strength, health, and support of one another…to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Please tell me you understand this?"

Ayane just looked at Zane, unmoving, her eyes red-rimmed and her cheeks flushed from crying. The glistening of fresh tears slowly dissipated and was replaced by something hard and unbreakable. The last drops of tears dripped from her chin when she opened her mouth. Her voice came out steady, but quiet.

"So…in other words…if we were in this predicament instead…if we had…given into our passion and desire for each other that night after the Couples' Ceremony…" Zane's eyes gradually widened. "…and I had gotten pregnant afterwards…would you then ask me to…to abort our baby…?"

Zane blinked, his mouth falling open as a deafening silence filled the room. He couldn't believe what he had just heard! This wasn't about them, so why would Ayane say such a thing? This was an unnecessary dispute. One that Zane didn't want to take part in. He looked at Ayane beseechingly.

"Ayane…please do not make this about us, because it's not."

"I'm not making this about us. I'm only asking you a hypothetical question, which I would appreciate an honest answer to."

Seeing little choice but to comply, Zane tried to picture it. He tried to picture himself asking Ayane to abort the baby conceived lovingly between them, because of the dangers that lied unquestionably ahead. He opened his mouth, and then closed it. And he did so again, his struggle apparent. Ayane watched him with the same amount of patience he had given her, her expression subdued as she waited.

The words formed in Zane's head, but his Emotional Framework was sending very distressed signals, hindering his mouth from speaking the logical words. Why? In the end, he remained silent. At a loss at how to articulate himself properly. And Ayane's expression didn't change.

"…It's not as easy now, is it?" She emoted. "You may not have known, Zane, but there's a little something called empathy. It's the ability to share and understand the feelings of another person—to put yourself in their shoes, and try to feel what they feel. It's easy for people to say what they think another person should do, because they're not the ones going through it themselves."

Zane faltered, piecing together Ayane's heartfelt logic. He felt like there was dry ice in his mouth and burning his tongue, but he made an effort to swallow. "Ayane…" he took a shaky breath, "…I am not saying we wouldn't be able to try again at a later date… I…"

Ayane smiled a very sad smile. "Thank you for being honest with me, Zane. Now I wanna be honest with you too. Even if you would've asked me to abort the baby…I wouldn't have… I would've tried my best to be happy and persevere, despite the odds stacked against me. And I would've done so with or without you…"

Ayane turned away from him then, and started heading for the door. And in a confused panic, Zane leapt up and grasped her arm to stop her. "Ayane! It was never my intention to cause you even more pain!" He got out desperately, flustered and stricken. "I was only answering your question!"

Never-ending streams of tears fell from Ayane's eyes when she turned to face him. And Zane looked like he was on the verge of tears as she reached up to cup his pale cheek. "I know…" she soothed thickly. "…I can't blame you for that. We can't expect to see eye-to-eye about everything, Zane. No couple is that perfect. I'm glad we talked about this…and I'm also glad we—we abstained that night." She bit her bottom lip to keep it from quivering too badly. "I'm not mad. I—*sniff*…I…haa… I just think I should be alone for awhile."

Zane brought her to him, hugging her tight and turning his face into her hair. "Do you have to be alone?" He asked miserably. "Because I don't want to let go of you. Not now, not ever."

With her face tucked into her love's chest, Ayane's hands trembled as they rose to clutch onto Zane's back. And the couple stood there in the middle of a room encased in white…and cried in each other's arms.

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Kai could barely keep up with Ebony as she stormed through the ship. He had tried calling her name multiple times to no avail. She was just too engrossed in her own musings to be distracted. Not to mention she had a very dangerous aura surrounding her. The Master of Fire could easily feel it. When Kai and his brothers had heard the yelling, they had mostly ascertained it coming from her, muffled albeit vehement nonetheless.

Kai frowned at Ebony's back as she rounded the corner into the entrance hallway. Had the idea of Sasha being pregnant upset her so much? But why? Wouldn't that be a great thing? Sure, it wasn't the most opportune time. But the baby would've been made from mutual love regardless. And isn't that all that really mattered? To brought into the world with two loving parents, instead of just one…or none…?

When Ebony slammed open the steel double doors leading out to the deck, Kai rushed to grab her hand. "Cereza!" If anything, that name would always capture Ebony's attention. The fire ninja exhaled gingerly, glad he finally stopped her. "Where are you going?"

"Nowhere," Ebony bit out, keeping her body turned away. "I just wanted some fresh air."

Kai didn't let go. "Okay, level with me, Shirayukihime, why are you so pissed?"

"I'm not upset. I'm just…antsy… Now let go."

Though a little worried, Kai complied and released Ebony from his grip. And she took a few more steps out into the sun, her head canted skyward towards the crisp blue sky. It was hard to believe the black showers had ever transpired yesterday with how beautiful the day looked. But Ebony's sights weren't on the scenery and the passing of clouds. She was anxiously looking for something. And Kai knew what.

"The dragons haven't returned yet," he said, knowingly, watching her tense and fold her arms. "They said they would once they've pinpointed Tengri's exact location."

"Oh…" Ebony frowned, clearly crestfallen by the news. But then she walked across the deck and leaned her back against the mast. "Then I'll wait here then. You can go back inside."

Kai approached her, ever observant. "Nah, it's okay. I'll wait with you… You know you're not the only one who's worried about them, right?"

Ebony met his gaze, but didn't comment. When everyone had woken up to find both Chosen missing, they were bewildered, of course. Given Dominique's grave injury—despite her unlocking her Light powers to heal it—they hadn't expected her to be that active. And with Lloyd's constant (albeit grumpy) monitor of her the night prior, for him to go MIA as well was increasingly unnerving. However, real panic didn't set in until the adults had finished searching the Bounty from top to bottom.

And the most frantic had been Ebony. She and her little brother hadn't exactly said goodnight on good terms last night. Though their quarrel wasn't extreme and Lloyd had apologized, Ebony had hoped to clear the air completely coming the morrow. But now with her kin missing, she's been on edge.

Kai stopped in front of her, watching the way the sun's rays played across her face and the way a small gust of wind rustled the longer strands of her bangs. He brushed a few of the more wayward white locks to the side with his fingertips and stared intently at her.

"C'mon, talk to me…" he beckoned in a low undertone. "…What happened in there?"

Ebony shrugged carelessly, her half-lidded gaze steadfast on the one before her. "Nothing much. Just a disagreement of sorts."

"About the idea of Sasha being pregnant?"

"Yes," Ebony affirmed with a grimace. "I just don't believe it would be ideal right now, what with there being so much going on. Not to mention, we already have two children to look after—which we've failed to do apparently," she added in a self-deprecating tone. She closed her eyes briefly and exhaled morosely. "The last thing we need is to add an infant into the mix and lose our leader in the process."

"Hey, I'm more worried about Dominique than Lloyd," Kai said. "The little guy's more self-reliant than you give him credit for, babe."

"I have no doubt that Lloyd is strong, Kai. But regardless, he is still just a boy and of need of guidance...especially now."

Kai nodded slowly. "True, but we can't hold his hand all the time. There are some decisions that he and Dominique will have to make on their own… Like this one."

"What, to leave without saying anything to anyone?" Ebony spat incredulously. "Do you really think they made this decision with absolute clarity?"

"Eh, maybe they did, maybe they didn't," Kai ventured with a wry smirk. "But the point is, not everything's going to go according to plan. Life's always gonna throw curve balls every now and then, babe. And the only thing to do is just adapt to the situation."

"But there are preventative measures that can be taken to ensure the situation doesn't spiral out of control," the kunoichi countered smartly. But Kai noticed the slight tremor in her body and the way her hands grasped her arms. "Things do not have to go awry. It's our intelligence that gives us the insight and forethought to act. But do you think such actions applied to Lloyd and Dominique's or Sasha and Cole's decision? I highly doubt it."

"Ebony…" Something was really wrong. Kai could smell it like a dank odor permeating the air. "…This isn't just about the possibility of Sasha being pregnant, or even Lloyd and Dominique's disappearance. Those two things were just the catalysts. This is really about your fear of losing control—your growing fear of the unknown."

Ebony's breath suddenly hitched and her garnet irises widened fearfully. She reached out to splay her palm over Kai's chest, as if the action could stay his words. "Kai… Kai, wait…"

Kai could see that Ebony was trying her damndest to reign in her emotions, her face stricken in unforeseeable pain. She plastered her back against the mast in a feeble attempt to distance herself. Kai felt the quivering hand on his chest and covered it with his own. He then leaned in close, his gaze heavy with concern and remorse.

"Ebony…last night…you were mumbling in your sleep. And Ifrit knows what language it was…" Ebony averted her gaze, her expression going haggard. "And then…you changed into your Aga form. And you started thrashing and you tore my sheets apart. And nearly me."

Kai remembered the morning, and how alarmed he was when Ebony suddenly changed shape in his arms. In his effort to soothe her frantic movements, he had hugged her close, entrapping her in his arms. He could still recall the feel of her tail wrapping painfully around his leg like a Constrictai. And the low, animalistic growling in his ear, and the stabbing prick of her sharp claws digging into his shoulders as she had held onto him just as tight. But Kai hadn't felt the pain in his body. His only concern having been bringing his girl back from whatever hellish pit she had been ensnared in.

"I'm sorry, Kai," Ebony whispered. But the fire ninja shook his head.

"I'm not lookin' for an apology, babe. Just answers. I know you said you didn't want to talk about it, but…" Kai moved his hand and placed his fingertips under Ebony's chin. He applied only the slightest bit of pressure in order to get her to turn her head to look at him.

The stoic mask of her normalcy tried desperately to sear onto her face… But it quickly crumbled, leaving shining eyes and a quivering lip in its wake. And when she spoke, her voice was quiet, strained, and thick.

"He… He said I'd start to lose everything—the voice I told you about…" Kai's brow furrowed, listening intently. "He said that…that I didn't belong here…and that he'd come to take me away."

Dumbstruck, Kai shook his head again. "Ebony—" But his words fell on deaf ears. Ebony wasn't looking at him anymore. There was a glassy fogginess to her eyes as she stared at nothing. And she continued to speak.

"He was so close… He'd never been so close…" Ebony's trembling hand reaches up to touch the back of her neck. "…I could feel him… He was right behind me… It was him wasn't it, Mother…? Who else could it have been…?" Her whisper was distant—so lost and unsure. "And all I could see…were white flames against black… Grimfeld… My brother… Those were his…"

Now truly afraid for his girlfriend, Kai grabbed Ebony by the shoulders and shook her. "Cereza! Cereza, snap out of it!"

Fearful and wide russet garnet irises focused on him. And slowly…the whites of her eyes turned black. In a flash, Ebony tore away from Kai and started running towards the railings. And panic-stricken, Kai rushed to stop her, her true name pealing from his lips. Swathes of silver, red and black converged around her form with frightening purpose.

Kai gritted his teeth, seeing the large twin wings manifest from the shroud and spread wide. Oh no ya don't! The light tap of human feet against wood quickly turned to the sharp click of Aga talons as the shroud dispersed and Cereza emerged, her black and silver dress catching the breeze and fluttering behind her as the platinum markings sprinkled across the back of her black wings twinkled like stars in a night sky under the sun's burning rays.

Nearing the starboard side's railings, Cereza was just about to leap when Kai gave a burst of speed and dove, catching her around the waist and pulling her down hard onto the deck. It was wrestling with a wild cat! This wasn't like the morning when Cereza had been locked in a nightmare; she was actively fighting against him—thrashing and growling, her eyes flaring a bright and violent red.

But this was just an instinctual effort to get away from a capture, no finesse or technique was being used as the Aga princess wrestled with Kai. And thankfully, the Master of Fire was able to keep his wits and prowess about him and utilize this knowledge against her. Unfazed by the brunt of her inhuman strength and the circulation of blood being cut off by a certain tail coiled around his leg, Kai grunted as he narrowly dodged a swipe of her claws, caught each of her wrists in his hands and pinned them down on either side of her hand. And releasing his weight, he dropped onto her smaller frame like a brick, hindering her movements further.

"STOP!" He bellowed down in her face, and she abruptly complied. He stared down at her, panting. She stared up at him, growling, her sharp teeth clenched…and crystalline tears rolling down the corner of her flaring red eyes.

Kai's heart clenched at the sight, but he kept his resolve and plunged forward earnestly. "I get it," he said in between breathes. "I get it… To hear those words in your dreams…and to wake up to find your little brother gone, your Phoenix gone…and the prospect of Sasha being pregnant and somehow losing her to some unforeseen danger… It all got to you…and it hit you…hard…"

Cereza went completely still under him. She stopped growling, and her eyes stopped glowing.

Burning golden-amber bore deeply into stunned russet garnet. "But I don't give a damn. I don't care who's haunting you, whether it's Grimfeld or even Garmadon. Because the shit they spill doesn't matter! Lloyd and Dominique are coming back! And if Sasha's pregnant then she's gonna be fine too!"

Shadows of doubt and worry darkened Cereza's face. "You can't be certain of such—"

"And you can't be certain of the opposite!" Kai countered hotly. "Sometimes all we have to go by is faith, Cereza. But this time we got something more than that—something you seem to keep forgetting." Kai took a breath and loosened his grip on Cereza's wrists. "Cereza…why do you keep thinking you're alone when you know you're not…? We've all been supporting each other for so long now. I know sometimes you feel like you're the only one who can do something—and you do a lot. But we build off of each other's strengths. That's what makes everyone here so strong. Let us stand beside you… Let me…"

"Oh Kai…" Cereza's voice was nothing more than a whisper as her wings stretched up and over to cover Kai's back as if to shield him. "…It's getting so hard to maintain control…and I just want to protect everyone… But…but I don't know if I can… I don't know if…if I'll be here to…"

Kai shook his head slightly, confused. "Why wouldn't you be here…?"

But Cereza didn't answer, her gaze looking despairingly into Kai's. And at once, he understood and brought her into his arms. Cereza took comfort in her love's arms as she rested against him, her wings still encircling them and cocooning them in a starlit night.

"No one's gonna take you away, Cereza," Kai uttered protectively. "You remember? I said you're not going anywhere. I promise."

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Sasha knew she only had to wait three minutes for the results. But why did they feel like the longest three minutes of her life? She sat quietly atop of the closed lid of the toilet seat, the pregnancy test resting comfortably under her hands in her lap as she waited. Her eyes drifted towards the door. Knowing who was waiting patiently on the other side made her smile somewhat. But it still perplexed her how she had come to be sitting here to begin with.

Me…? Pregnant…?

It was hard for her to imagine…this early anyway. Sure, she had thought about it—even more recently, since Cole had proposed back in April. Him and her settled down somewhere in a nice house with a steady flow of income. Just the usual, domesticated life. But she had pictured it further down the line, not now. Not in the middle of dangerous battles, conspiracies, familial issues and everything else muddled and lurking in between.

Thus, in retrospect…having a baby now would be…inconvenient.

Sasha made a face, not liking the word no matter how fitting it was. She then took a deep breath and exhaled it slowly. The heart and mind always seemed to be bitter enemies. Both made everything so convoluted and befuddled. She had always categorized herself as a logical person. But her falling in love with Cole made her think otherwise.

She smiled wryly in remembrance. Love at first sight, huh…

When had she allowed herself to be a part of some fairy tale? Did it even matter now? She was here. Her reality had been meshed together in a fantasy of Shinobi, elemental powers, gods and goddesses, humanoid snakes and ultimately heroism. With a little romance, friendship and sisterhood nestled in between. This has become her normalcy.

Sasha's smile gradually became more genuine and pure. "…I've… I've come a long way, haven't I, Waves…? We all have…"

A deep, soothing calm washed over the kunoichi leader as the spirit responded in her usual alto.

(Yes, I would believe so. But like your late sensei once said…there is always room for improvement, Sasha. Your journey is far from over…)

Sasha swallowed, remembering everything she and her friends, family and love had strived and bled to overcome up until now. She then removed her hands from her lap…and peered down at the pregnancy test.

(…And it looks like you have a little one on board for the ride…)

Pregnant.

That one word stared up at her. And she stared down at it for an inconceivable amount of time, unblinking and letting it sink in. But it was strange… Now that she knew, she felt…relieved, as if subconsciously she had been yearning for it. Where was the initial fear she had had? She could feel the prick of tears in her eyes, but they were tears of happiness.

A tentative knock suddenly sounded at the door and she immediately jerked her head up. Cole… She had rudely almost forgotten about him—the man that had helped create this miracle.

"Sasha…?"

However, before he could utter another word, she got up and ran to the door, throwing it open and jumping into his surprised arms. Yep. Again, she had surprised him. And he backpedaled, unable to find his footing and they both fell with an almighty thump onto the carpet.

Cole let out an "Oof!" as the air left his lungs from the unexpected tackle from the water kunoichi. His arms stayed wrapped around her no less as he panted and stared down at the sea of braided crimson. "S-Sasha…haa…"

Sasha couldn't find her words at the moment. All she could do was smile and cry into his chest with utter happiness and relief. Happiness and relief…not sorrow and pain… A few minutes ticked by before Cole worked up the courage to clear his throat and say something.

"Sasha…? I…I have to be honest here. I don't know if you're happy or sad, I really don't… Could you help me out here…?"

The Master of Water giggled lightly as she sat up on her knees, her legs straddling her fiancé's hips. Cole looked up at her from the floor in anxious anticipation, his emerald-jade gaze searching her face. Despite his age and maturity, at that moment, Cole looked so innocent. Sasha could easily discern the hopeful albeit resigned gleam in his eyes.

Still smiling, she leaned over him, face to face, letting her tears drop onto his cheeks and whispered sweetly. "Cole…I'm pregnant, honey."

His eyes became impossibly large. "You…you are…?" He asked just as soft, looking for affirmation. And she gave it with a slight nod. "And you're…happy…?" Her platinum glistened with unshed tears as she nodded again. "…Ah… Thank god…*sniff*… Thank god…"

Cole sat up gingerly and embraced Sasha, and the couple stayed that way for a time, reveling in the blissful euphoria of a baby on the way in result of their love. That is until Cole helped her off the floor and led her to sit upon another bed—this time Ebony's. And Mydnyte, who had been the silent observer through it all, unfurled herself from her bedding and leapt up onto Sasha's lap.

Sasha was a bit startled by this tender show of affection from the Bombay, given the kunoichi's somewhat abrasive behavior towards the feline as of late. But all seemed well with the world for Mydnyte as she purred and settled down comfortably, giving a nuzzle and a lick to Sasha's exposed belly.

Sasha grinned down at the cat and petted her gently along her silky back. "Animals…they always seem to know, don't they?"

When an elongated silence answered her, Sasha glanced over at Cole to find the "look" etched across his face. She sighed internally as she gauged each of his pensive features: the furrowed brow, the frown, the faraway albeit contemplative gaze as he stared at nothing. Sasha knew what Cole was pondering and decided to get the ball rolling rather than let the issue fester.

She had thought about this too during her cry, after all, and steeled herself. "Yes, Cole? Go ahead."

The ninja leader and Clan Head gave his partner a side-long glance from his peripheral, stony expression still affixed. "Do I really have to say it, Sasha? You already know how I feel. Now that we know for sure that you're pregnant, how do you expect me to condone you remaining on the front lines?"

Sasha placed a hand on his shoulder. "I understand, Cole. And I know I'm being reckless and irresponsible when I say this, but…I can't rest on the sidelines just yet. Not when my team is on the wire."

Cole looked at her, frowning. "You mean Ebony."

"No, I mean my team. This concerns all of them." Sasha removed her hand from Cole's shoulder with a tired sigh and looked down at the feline in her lap, now asleep and blissfully ignorant. She let her fingertips scratch lightly atop her head. "I need to choose a second-in-command… But before that, I think it's imperative I speak with everyone individually—to tell them and…find out where they stand."

Cole nodded slowly. "Alright… Okay, I hear ya. But, are you sure you wanna do this now? You've been so tired lately, amore. You may have slept well last night, but now you should be resting as much as possible. Why don't we postpone this until later? I can just tell 'em you're pregnant and that you wanna talk to 'em when you wake up?"

Sasha shook her head. "My mind wouldn't be able to shut off long enough for me to find sleep, baby. I need to do this now."

The Master of Earth caved much easier that Sasha expected, although he still wore that no nonsense frown as he stood up. "Alright, I'll go gather everyone up then. I'll send Nya in first, since she and Jay are still playin' sentry out there," he said, glancing briefly over at the door. "Plus, she's probably dyin' to get in here anyway. But uh…" he suddenly looked nervous, "…do you…wanna tell em'? Or—y'know…can I? Before I uh…send 'em in…?"

Sasha smiled at the unorthodox demeanor the powerful ninja displayed. Cole appeared almost constipated with how much he was keeping his emotions in check. It was obvious he wanted to celebrate in some way, but wasn't willing to fly off the handle given the current situation with the disappearance of Lloyd and Dominique. Thus, Sasha decided to throw him a bone.

Oh wow, this man… "Sure, amor," she said, with a soft chortle. "You can tell 'em."

"I can?!" His eyes shined like a kid's on Christmas day. "Okay, cool! Er I mean um *ahem* awesome." Sasha cocked an eyebrow at him. His mouth was doing something weird—like struggling to form either a deep frown or a goofy smile. Finally, his expression settled on an amalgamation of "happy but serious" and he turned to head for the door. He abruptly stopped, though, and turned back around like he forgot his car keys or something. And instead, strode up to her again.

With a tender hand on her shoulder, her leaned down and kissed her again. It was chaster this time around, but nonetheless passionate. When the two parted, Sasha stared at him, but this time chose to remain silent. The emerald-jade orbs that bore into hers… There was a message within. One that spoke of love, devotion, fealty and determination.

And for some reason, Sasha found herself blushing in face of such an ardent look, feeling the Elemental tethering between them strengthen. Cole had never been the best with words. But most of the time…he didn't need them. The gleam in his eyes changed suddenly—a struggle. He didn't want to leave her, even if it was only to go meters away.

Understanding, Sasha cupped his cheek and kissed him again. She then gently pulled back to meet his tumultuous gaze. "Go. There's work to do. You'll be back."

He blinked as if coming out of stupor, but then nodded firmly. "Yeah… Just relax, okay?"

"Of course." She tugged teasingly on his hair. "Just go."

And with that, he pulled away with a calm smile and turned to resume his trek to the door. But as soon as he opened it, he was greeted by Ebony's stern countenance with Jay and Nya flanking her.

"The dragons are back," she said without missing a beat. "And they've got intel on Lloyd and Dominique's whereabouts. Come to deck, everyone else has already gathered."

A/N: As you may've already guessed, this entry doesn't belong in Chibijago! but rather near the beginning of book two in the series Trials and Tribulations, The Agamemnon. I had just finished a grad paper on the social issue of abortion, so while my mind was flooded with information and ideas, I just decided to strike while the iron's hot, so to speak. I wanted to make each character's reaction real, palpable and diverse, since they all are anyway. However, some things may get either cut or revised upon the official release, so really this is just a place holder until I get to The Agamemnon. I hope everyone enjoyed this little preview of sorts and know that both My Quiet World of White and Praise Amaterasu are being worked on in my spare time.

Thanks, everyone!