Disclaimer: I do not own Ouran High School Host Club, it rightfully belongs to Bisco Hatori. I only claim ownership of Mayu Ishikawa (a.k.a. Bun Bun) and the Ishikawa Family and various others that appear. This story is inspired by Desire Climax and Kaichou-wa Maid-Sama.

Chapter 25 - Tea Master

Squeals of joy were heard all around the Castle from the patrons, Mayu couldn't help the smile plastered on her face, everyone seemed smitten with him, and they told her how much he looked like his mother. She tried many times to tell them about his real mother and how she was only his sister but no one wanted to hear it. They simply assumed that she was the mother and that was that, even though she asked them how she could have had a child without any of them knowing about it, and they simply came up with some excuse that related to the birth of bunnies. She laughed at their theory, Mayu quickly learned to roll with it, and everything seemed to return to some semblance of peace until the bell jingled. A single red eye glanced over at the entrance, Kairi had greeted the man, but his voice made her grin, "I WANNA SEE MY LIL' BUN BUN!" The patrons turned to see who was causing such a raucous, the man came into view, and she grinned.

"Da!"

"Bun Bun!" Immediately Aiden hugged his daughter then patted Kuyomi on his head, a few other patrons stated that he had such a beautiful grandson, he immediately grinned, "Why thank you! He takes after his mother in looks but I'm sure he'll have his father's personality." When the attention was diverted to Mori momentarily, he looked away with a slight flush on his face, and everyone had a good laugh about it. Aiden took a seat with Mori, "Is it alright if I sit with you?" Mori nodded, Mayu brought him a latte with a rosette on it, he smiled up at her, "The Special Bun Bun." She nodded and hopped away, when she was out of sight, Aiden leaned in towards Mori, "So how goes things?"

"Good. Kyoya's going to help with the cabin but I've yet to get a list from Snowbelle."

"Yeah, more than likely she'll plan everything this Sunday with her friends. Trust me when I say that she'll get it done in a fortnight." Mori only stared at him, "The last time she planned something, it was a small birthday party for Sakura and she waited to the last possible day to get it set up. The whole party, decorations, cake, drinks, and presents had all been setup overnight and she was sitting at the table waiting for her to get up." Takashi was shocked at the information, "So I'm warning you ahead of time that if she plans anything, it'll be done within a night." Aiden leaned back as his food arrived, "Merci beacoup Bun Bun." Mayu curtsied a little then bounded off to attend others, "So what are you getting her for her birthday?"

"I don't know. I've thought about it but I really don't know what to get her. She's happy with everything right now."

Aiden held a twinkle in his green eyes, Mori noticed, and the older male was only smirking as he sipped his latte, "I have an idea." His son-in-law leaned in closely as Aiden met him there, he made sure that Mayu wasn't around as the Ishikawa Head whispered, "Make her some manju." When they leaned back, Aiden took a bite of the special, and Mayu had come over, he exclaimed up at her, "I love it! Thank the chefs in the cavern for me!" She laughed, nodded, and headed off to tell them that her father loved their sweets, "I'm sure Kairi will help you out or Haruhi."

"How do you know about Haruhi?"

"I know everything."

"Kyoya tell you?"

"Some of it but the rest I have learned from my own sources." Mori saw a twinkle in the man's eye that meant every word he had said about the Ishikawa Family being pirates made sense. "Those scrolls aren't wrong and I may tease a lot and say things in good fun but they are true. My little Mayu has learned to read into it, she's very perceptive and I'm so glad that she's grown into such a strong woman."

"She's doing a Tea Ceremony for the Syndicates."

"I know, she'll be working on those namagashi no doubt, she'll perfect them too, that's how she is."

"She makes those?"

"Oh yes, don't let her fool you, she makes all the mochi sweets."

"But she never had dango." Mori showed him the photographs of the first time that she ate it, "If she makes them then why doesn't she eat them? She didn't even know what dango was."

"She makes them but she doesn't know what they're called. She usually doesn't eat them either, mostly they're made and given away as an extra bonus with her tea boxes." Mori nodded in understanding, "She just comes up with an idea and then implements it, that's why she didn't know what dango was or what it tasted like. Mayu gets her ideas from Lady Amaterasu, she may not know the names of things but she knows how to make them and that's extraordinary, it's as if she's gleaning information from her own blood from the past." Mori nodded once more and Aiden took another bite of his special, his phone rang, he looked at it, glared, and answered it. "I'm eating a nice cake with a latte being served by a cute bunny so leave me alone. I'll come back to the meeting when I'm damn well ready." Takashi snickered as the older male put the phone away, "If not for Mayu I think I would have had gray hair by now!" Kuyomi began crying, Mayu whispered that it was almost time for a diaper change, "Gimme, gimme!" It was reminiscent of the time at Umehito's beach when Mayu had wanted Kotoko, Mori smiled, and the little bundle was handed over to his father. "I want to change him! It's been ages since I've done it. I'll be back!" Mayu nodded as Aiden grabbed the diaper bag and headed into the bathroom so that he could spend some time with his son.

She was grinning while bouncing around the cafe, even Kairi couldn't help the good mood that she infected into the sultry cafe, Mori watched her, and thought about the manju. I wonder if it'll be that easy to make...hmm... He removed his phone, texted Haruhi that he wanted to make manju for Mayu's birthday, and asked if she would help him out with it. Immediately she responded with an ecstatic 'yes' and Mori smiled at it, he texted her back, thanking her for the help, and that they would get together soon without Mayu's knowledge. When Haruhi asked what kind of filling, he smiled, and texted back to that he wanted to put in a maple custard so that it would surprise her. Haruhi sent him a smiling emoticon, Mori thanked her in advance, then put his phone away the moment that Aiden came back. Mori took the bundle from him so that he could eat his food, and Aiden watched as Mori held the baby boy against his left shoulder, Kuyomi seemed to like the silent male, as they soon heard the infant snoring.

"He likes you."

"I'm glad."

"Me too Mori."

"Why did you want her part of my family?"

The Ishikawa Head grinned, leaned in close, and whispered, "Because I have always admired how strong your family is. The Morinozuka Family served the Hanninozukas without fail, that type of loyalty, that type devotion is what I saw in Mayu when she first began the path of the Light Maiden. I wanted her to be appreciated, to be honored, and protected because of who she is. That is the sole reason why I chose your family."

"You could have chosen Hanninozukas."

"No, Morinozukas. Your family has served them with such passion that I was astounded by it and I knew that she would be a perfect addition only because she serves Lady Amaterasu with the same loyalty and devotion that your family does. Your family are the only ones that would understand her devotion, loyalty, and passion to the Sun Goddess. No one else would be able to understand that except yours and you have been especially welcoming of her."

"Thank you for choosing my family. It's a great honor to be marrying the most devout and brightest Light Maiden."

"I can assure you that the honor is all mine."

"Why send the proposal to the Ootori Family as well?"

"A backup. Always have a backup plan, Mori."

"You can call me Takashi."

"Oh? I'm so glad!" They parted so that he could finish his cake while sipping his latte, "It's so relaxing here and she's doing such a good job! Nothing bothers her, she takes everything in stride." Mori nodded his agreement while he took a bite of his strawberry shortcake. "Remember manju." Mori nodded and stated that he already enlisted help in order to make it. "Awesome! I'm so excited for it! Mei's making a big bash about it." Mori raised an eyebrow at him, "Kyoya told me so I'm going to go all out for it too!"

"Hmmm, I should tell the rest of them too."

"The rest?"

"Ichiro, Shin, my family and my cousin's family."

"Oh, do it! Do it!" Mori smirked and nodded, "Mayu's never really had a birthday party before so this one is going to be so awesome!" Aiden was giddy like a child on Christmas as he finished his food, he asked Mayu for the check, she dropped it off, and he paid for it while leaving a tip that was ten times what the amount was. Mayu was going to protest but he embraced her, "Mayu, you're my little girl and you are a wonderful mother. You can't tell me to take it back because I won't, it's that simple. You should stop by your new home and visit Gammy. She'll want to see the little servant of the moon."

"I will Da. Probably today after the photo shoot."

"Good! I'll talk to you soon my little Solar Flare."

"Take care of yourself Da."

"Pfft! I do! I drink only your tea that's prepared by Miyuki and Sora so I know it's safe." Mayu laughed and he grinned as he placed a kiss on her forehead, and hugged her one last time. "He's going to grow up to be strong and healthy just like his older sister," he whispered. Mayu nodded, they parted ways, and she cleaned off the small table of Mori's empty dishes as well. She returned to take Kuyomi but Mori shook his head, and she grinned while returning to work. The little bundle was still sleeping on his shoulder, he kept him cradled with one arm while his free one sipped the refilled coffee that she had brought him.

It progressed more smoothly although patrons were still fawning over the little bundle that Mori held, he even took the diaper bag to the bathroom in order to change him, and then returned with a happy infant. Others even took to admiring the silent male when he fed the baby boy, he always did what Mayu had told him, and after he burped one final time, everything was put away back into the bag, and Mayu smiled warmly at him. Mori only gave a small one in return while Kairi announced, "You can go Bun Bun!" She jumped, the owner was grinning at her, and she huffed while heading to the back. "I wonder if she'll ever anticipate that."

"Maybe one day when you least expect it."

"Right you are Mori!" The male smiled as he got up, his table was already cleared off, and Mayu reappeared wearing her normal clothes. The bundle was wrapped around her while he held her market tote and the diaper bag. "You two are so cute together! Oh I can't wait for the Maple Matsuri!"

Mori smirked, "Neither can I." Mayu's face flushed and Kairi burst into laughter as they left, she was still blushing but Mori wrapped an arm around her shoulders to comfort her. Takashi was going to apologize but he thought better of it so they waited for the car to arrive, they got in, and were taken to Yue's Studio.

The photographer was ecstatic to meet the new addition to the Ishikawa household, Mayu was laughing at him, he asked, "Can I take some photographs of him?" Mayu nodded, immediately he brought up his camera, he made sure to turn the flash off, and the baby boy giggled up at the new person. "He's adorable! I wish the Twins would make baby clothes for him, he would be such a cute little model!"

"I don't want to share him with anybody," stated the maiden with a smile. "He's all mine."

"What about your own?"

"Them too. I'm a bit greedy when it comes to those that I love."

"Aww! That includes me too?"

"Of course!"

Yue laughed as the papoose was then handed to Mori, the male took a seat, and held the infant to his shoulder once more; the photographer watched as the silent husband-to-be smiled at the small bundle. He snapped a few photographs without his knowledge and he was definitely going to make a scrap book for her of all the nice pictures he had that were never used in the campaigns. Mayu emerged wearing a short cocktail dress, it was adorned with sequins, she shrugged at it, and then took her position on the props. Yue was having a blast as she posed here and there, she took the direction as he motioned for her to move in certain areas, and Mori watched her. It was like watching a dance of some sort, Mayu's motions were so fluid and natural. Takashi understood why her campaigns were so successful, her motions were natural, and it didn't look as if she was in a studio but out in the world.

Mayu left the stage to change into another dress, Yue moved some props around to make a different scene, then she re-emerged wearing a dark red ruffled cocktail dress, she sauntered with her red heels towards the little dining table that Yue had set up. Mori watched intently as she took a seat facing the camera, she crossed her legs, placed one hand on her knee, then rested her elbow on the table. Her chin rested on the very edge of her palm while the fingers curled, and she gazed off somewhere; as if she was waiting for someone. Yue had grown used to her poses so he snapped a few different angles but Mori was still impressed by how natural she looked. Then, all of a sudden, a small smile curved her red lips, as if to show that whomever she was waiting for had arrived. Yue snapped a few more then told her change again, the maiden got up, and nearly skipped to change. The photographer laughed, he moved the props around more, this time he brought a little cafe table, it had intricate white details all over it. A small vase with a flower in it, a saucer and cup, and a nice little menu laid out.

The Ishikawa Maiden appeared wearing a yellow dress with white polka dots on it with a dark orange sash around the waist, and a large sun hat. Delicate feet were wrapped in very high yellow heels, she walked as if she was used to them all her life, then she spun around, and sat on the chair. Again she crossed her legs but the opposite way this time, and gently glanced over her shoulder while her arm rested on the back of the chair, her other hand delicately gripping the table top. Yue snapped some photographs then she turned to face the cup, she lifted it slowly to her lips, pretending to inhale the scent, and a small smile curved her lips. Again Yue snapped some pictures, he was having a blast, Mori could see the huge grin on the man's face while Mayu pretended to sip whatever was in that cup. After some time, the photographer stated, "That's a wrap!" The cup was poised near her parted lips, her face tilted just slightly to give him a three-quarter view of her face, and he snapped a photograph while she raised a single eyebrow at him. "I'm using that one!" Mayu laughed, got up, and went to change out of the dress so that she would be more comfortable.

She reappeared but Yue noted that she had the dress, "I'm keeping this one." He laughed while Kuyomi was handed over to her since he began to squabble, "There, there little one. It's alright, I'm here." The boy immediately calmed down, she wrapped the papoose over her body, hugged Yue, and grinned at him. "Thank you for the photographs of him Yue."

"Don't worry, the moment that I've got them all finished, I'll send them over to you."

"I don't have an e-mail account."

"No but Mori does and I already have it."

Mayu laughed, "I should really get up to date with technology!"

Yue laughed, "Well when you do, let me know!"

"I will Yue! See you Friday, may Lady Amaterasu bless you and protect you."

"The same to you little maiden." The couple left while Yue locked up behind them then promptly skipped to his back room in order to go over the pictures he had for the next campaign teasers. The car was waiting for them, the couple climbed in, and the driver gave a little wave to the small bundle; the baby giggled. The automobile drove in a different direction this time, Mayu looked at Mori, and he only smiled while the driver grinned. Soon enough she knew that they were going to visit his family along with her Gammy, Mayu couldn't hide the grin on her face, and Mori leaned forward; he abruptly planted his lips on hers and she sat there shocked. She felt his tongue lightly touch her lower lip, she parted her mouth for him, and he immediately took advantage of her actions. It was a few minutes like that, battling tongues but eventually they parted, both of them panting, and Mayu wearing a bright blush while Takashi only smiled lovingly at her.

"How long until you stop blushing?"

"Never."

"Good."

"Why?"

"I love it when you blush." Her face heated up more and the driver couldn't help but laugh, Mayu chuckled, and Mori only grinned. They sat at a red light while the driver cleared his throat, the soon-to-be-married coupled looked at him, and he was smiling at them.

"Thank you Miss Mayu." She tilted her head, "You bring out the best in Mister Mori and everyone at the house appreciates you for who you are. We only want to thank you for choosing the family, we are truly honored to be basking in the glow of a genuine Light Maiden."

"There are false ones?"

"Yes and no. They follow the path of the Light but none are true to it as you are. They pray for selfish reasons and ask for menial guidance all the time, I have heard them at the temples in Okinawa, perhaps, one day, we could take you there and you can show them all what a true Light Maiden is all about."

"I would like that very much. Are you from Okinawa?"

"I am."

"It displeases you that they shame the religion so?"

"Yes it does."

Mayu smiled warmly, her eyes twinkling like two rubies in a fire, "Then it would be an honor for me to go to your home town and show the others what a true Light Maiden is."

"It warms my heart to hear you say that Miss Mayu. I am truly indebted to you."

"Nonsense! I'm part of the family and you're part of the family so I help my family."

"I am but a simple driver."

Mayu smiled, "You're more than that. You're part of the Morinozuka household and the Ishikawa household just as I am." He was shocked but soon smiled in return at her, "I'm glad you understand." He nodded and the grin that he wore never abated as he continued to drive towards the Morinozuka home. Mori leaned over and kissed her again, she returned it, and smiled, "You know how I am Taka."

"I know."

"Did Da tell you why he chose your family?"

"He did."

"Are you going to share?"

"Perhaps one day."

"What day?"

"When you stop blushing so easily then I'll tell you."

Mayu laughed, "I eagerly await that day."

"I do as well."

Soon enough the car pulled into the driveway, the driver opened the door for them, and they climbed out, she thanked him, and blessed him. He replied the same to her with a small bow, even though she protested, he said that he would continue to do it because he respected her. Mayu thanked him, he nodded, and leaned against the car while Mori and Mayu turned to the entrance. She grinned up at him and they headed up the stairs, she was going to knock but decided to just enter, and Mori laughed. Mayu slipped off her shoes and said, "Hello? Family? We're visiting today!"

The first person to barrel down the hall was Satoshi, he embraced his older brother, and then gently embraced Mayu since he saw the bundle in her arms. He looked down at him and gasped, "That's him?!" Mayu nodded, "He's so small! He has white hair like you! Oh my gosh! This is so exciting!" He turned around and hollered, "CHIKA! OUR LIL' BRO IS HERE!" Suddenly another male with blond hair followed Satoshi's earlier path but more carefully. When he saw Mayu, he embraced her gently, and she nudged him towards Mori. Chika bashfully hugged the older male as well while she grinned, then his attention was diverted solely onto the small bundle that was sleeping. "Isn't he just the cutest?!"

"What color eyes does he have?"

"I'm not sure. He doesn't want to open them yet." Chika laughed and she smiled, "Do you want to hold him?" Both younger brothers stared at her, both of them nodded, "Show me to the den and you can take turns." Immediately they were shown there, unfortunately there was the sound of padding footsteps, and Mayu laughed just as she sat down. Immediately Pome, Piyo, and Taiyo had joined her on the couch, "I suppose Dad let you all stay inside." The males stared at her, "He's my Dad too." Satoshi burst into laughter as she unwrapped the papoose and handed him over to Satoshi first, Chika was sitting next to him, the baby fidgeted but Mayu cooed to him, "Kuyomi this is Satoshi, he's your older brother. The one next to him is Yasuchika, you're other brother." Chika was smiling at her as she referred to him as a brother instead of a cousin and Satoshi was grinning as the baby grinned back him with his toothless mouth.

"I want to hold him," stated Chika. Satoshi handed him over and the Hanninozuka was bouncing him around, the infant didn't seem to mind in the least as he gurgled, and sputtered giggles. There was a gasp from the hall, Honey was standing there, immediately he sat down next to his brother, and Kuyomi was handed to him while Chika said, "This is your other brother Mitsukuni or Honey." Honey was grinning at the small bundle who seemed to be enjoying all the attention, and then another gasp. They looked up to see Reiko, she took a seat next to her husband, and the den began to get crowded but Mayu was laughing and Mori was grinnig.

"So cute! He has your hair Mayu," replied Reiko. The bundle was handed over to her, she smiled, "Hello Kuyomi. I'm Reiko, I serve Lord Belzeneff, the Great Cat Lord, one day you'll learn about him and Lord Tsukuyomi from which your name was derived. Mayu's a great mother and teacher, you'll learn well, and her spirit is strong." Reiko looked up at her bonded sister, "Can I take a photo for Umehito?" Mayu nodded, Mitsukuni removed her phone, took a picture of the little bundle, and Reiko had him text for her. "Umehito, this is Kuyomi, Mayu's little brother and future servant to Lord Tsukuyomi. Lord Belzeneff will definitely appreciate his services in the future. Can we give him something related to our great Lord?"

Mayu interjected, "Belzeneff onesie." Reiko was shocked at her but Mitsukuni typed it in then sent it to the Nekozawa heir. "I want him to have a Belzeneff onesie and maybe that can be part of the Gothic Clothing Line!" Reiko tilted her head, "Remember what I said that day?" She nodded, "I haven't spoken to them about it yet but when I get some free time, I will." She grinned while Reiko smiled in return, then another female gasp followed by an older one. Everyone looked to see Sakura and Yuna standing there, "Kuyomi's here to see everyone."

Immediately he was handed over to Yuna, she swooned over him for many minutes, bouncing him around, and cooing to him. Sakura grinned and that grin infected everyone around including the animals, then he was handed over to the Ishikawa grandmother. She smiled softly at him, "He's going to have Lord Tsukuyomi's pale blue eyes and will serve him well. He's going to look just like him just as you look like Lady Amaterasu. The Ishikawa Family has truly been blessed by our deities." Mayu's smile softened as Sakura took a seat next to all the animals, she was stroking his soft hair, "I'm so glad I got to see him."

"You're not going anywhere," replied Mayu.

Sakura looked at her and grinned, "Of course not! Why I'm still as fit as a fiddle and can still do a jig to one too!" Everyone laughed which brought Akira out of training, his half-naked body was gleaming with sweat, and he immediately gasped. "This is Kuyomi."

"I want to hold!" Before he could dash toward the bundle, Yuna punched him in the face, and told him to take a shower first. "Yes dear. I'll be back so don't go anywhere!" They all laughed as he dashed through the house to get cleaned off so he could hold the small little bundle of joy. In a few minutes he returned, Yuna was skeptical, "I washed! Sort of..." She only shook her head, Kuyomi was handed to Akira, he smiled down at the little bundle, "So adorable." The man's eyes softened, "I can't wait to hold more of you little guys!" Mayu's face immediately flushed as did Mori's, and Satoshi took the opportunity to snap a photograph, he sent it to Reiko's phone for her scrap book, and they grinned at one another.

The hours wore on and they had to leave, everyone was sad but Mayu cheered them up stating, "Tomorrow's training day so we'll be back!"

Akira did a fist pump, "YES!" Although no one really knew what his true intention behind that was, whether to see Kuyomi again or to train Mayu was anyone's guess. Yuna punched him in the face again, he laughed, as well as the others, and the couple said their farewells. Of course Mayu blessed them and on their way out Shiki greeted them. He embraced Mayu, she returned it, he patted the baby's head, to which he giggled, and he whispered something to Mayu, the maiden nodded with warm smile.

"You don't have to keep thanking me Shiki. I'm glad to do it."

"No, thank you for deeming me worthy enough to be brought into your shining folds. It truly is an honor and I am forever in you debt." Mayu smiled, hugged him once more, and he whispered, "I'll have the Pu-erh Tea for you soon. Some of my family live in Yunan and I keep in touch on a weekly basis." Mayu thanked him, hugged him tightly, and he responded, "Anything you wish for is my pleasure to bring to you. I can procure anything."

"Thank you Shiki." He inclined his head and they parted ways, Mori was eyeing her suspiciously but she only grinned at him while Kuyomi slept soundly after his busy day of meeting family. Repeatedly Mori tried to pry out of her what the butler had said to her but she wouldn't give in no matter how much he tickled her, licked her, kissed her, nipped her, and teased her. The driver was guffawing in the front and stated how stubborn she can be. "I'm as stubborn as my Dad when it comes to keeping certain things secret!" More laughter from the driver and Mori only whispered that he would find a way to get his revenge, "I look forward to it Taka as I'll repay it ten fold." She winked at him, he smirked, and gave that low rumbling laugh that she had fallen in love with, which made her flush red.

-::::::-

She was in her sparring uniform at the Morinozuka house, Shiki was actually the one who was teaching her since Mori had used his father as a punching bag after he slid his hands along Mayu's thigh muscle to keep her pose up. For some reason, Takashi only allowed Shiki to touch his fiancee, no one understood it, but that's how it was going to stay. The butler was more adept at teaching her kickboxing than Akira and when they asked him why, he smiled, "I was a kickboxing champion in my younger years until I procured an injury." When they asked him what happened, he replied, "I slipped on some ice and injured my kneecap." Mayu felt pity for him but he shook his head, "On the contrary, it was the best thing that ever happened to me because then I wouldn't be able to impart my wisdom unto you Light Maiden." Mayu thanked him warmly and he nodded while returning to teaching her about balance, everyone was in awe of his training, it was strict, and long. When others took a rest, he forced her to stay up, and she kept up with his demands because she wanted to be the best as well; she wanted to impress Mori. "Very good! I shall bring you some food now while you rest."

"Thank you Shiki."

He inclined his head, "My pleasure Lady Mayu." He disappeared down a hall while Kuyomi squabbled for a diaper change. The maiden laughed at him, the baby seemed to return that laughter, so Yuna took him away to change him while bouncing him around from hip to hip, and Akira's eyes glinted deviously.

"Mayu?" She looked at her second father, "Do you happen to know a special kind of tea that involves the color red?" Even though the others didn't understand his meaning, Mayu certainly did, and she smiled at him. His grey eyes traveled to her, she grinned, and nodded. "Oh good! When can you have it ready?"

"It'll take some time because it's not native here."

"Ah, I see. When you get it, let me know."

"I won't have to let you know." Akira raised an eyebrow at her as Shiki returned with some food her, and she stood up; he recognized that motion as her wanting to tell him something. She whispered, "I need you to get some Ashwagandha tea from India for Akira." The butler also wore a devious smirk on his face as he nodded that it would get done and she couldn't help that grin either. Mayu took a seat, looked at the food that he had made for her, and smiled. "Tanuki onigiri."

"The very same. I heard that you like you onigiri so I made something that I thought you haven't had before or haven't had in a long time."

Her eyes were full of emotion, "Thank you Shiki." He only inclined his head to her so she picked one up, took a bite, and chewed it with a smile on her face. She swallowed, "It's really delicious!" Once more the butler inclined his head to her as she took another bite of the food and Mori realized why Aiden had told him to make her manju for her birthday. Mayu always cooked for others and herself so when someone else cooked for her, she enjoyed it more, and he knew that was the same reason she enjoyed her dango so much. A devious thought began to form in his mind but her phone chimed, she picked it up, looked at it, and answered it. "Hello Tetsuya, how are you?" She nodded and listened to him, "I'm glad! I know Miho's been discharged but she needs bed rest. I told Ryota to let me know when she wanted to see Kuyomi so until then I'll let her rest." She laughed at his response, "Oh? They've settled on a date finally? When is it?" Mayu listened closely, "This Saturday? Not a problem! What time?" She nodded again, "Okay, this Saturday at eight in the evening. I'll be there with Taka and Kuyomi." Tetsuya exclaimed it would be an honor and her smile only broadened, "I'm glad! Have a blessed day Tetsuya." He replied the same to her, she nodded, and replied, "Alright then. Bye bye now!" They could hear an echoing chuckle as the they hung up the phone on one another. Quickly she texted the Twins, "The Tea Ceremony is this Saturday at eight, I'll be working on the namagashi as soon as I get off work that day. I'll be home waiting for you." She received a reply, "See you then!"

Mayu laughed while Yuna returned, "What Tea Ceremony? You're doing a Tea Ceremony?"

She looked up and nodded while taking another bit of the Tanuki onigiri and Mori replied, "Ritsu and Tetsuya asked her to do a Tea Ceremony for the Syndicate meeting." Yuna was impressed, "It's this Saturday."

"Can you do one for us?"

"Of course I can!"

"What's this about namagashi?" inquired Akira.

"When I do a Tea Ceremony, I always make namagashi to go with it. I make a lot of mochi sweets but usually I give them away with the tea boxes around the holidays."

Satoshi grinned, "I can't wait for our own Tea Ceremony!"

Reiko chimed in, "You know there's a reunion at Ouran coming up. Maybe we can arrange it so that you do one there in the old music room."

"Well, it's a petting zoo now," replied Satoshi.

"That's fine." Everyone looked at her, "I'd be delighted to do a Tea Ceremony in your petting zoo at Ouran. It would be an honor." The moment that she put the second riceball in her mouth, Satoshi hugged her from behind, she glanced over at him with the food in her mouth, and Reiko snapped a picture. She smiled up at him, the Dark Arts user snapped another one while wearing a small smile. Eventually he got off her so she could finish eating and return to training.

Mori was impressed with her, he watched as she injured herself quite a bit but never anything too serious and she never complained about it, instead she got right back up to try again. Dark grey eyes watched her carefully while Shiki was teaching her basic hit points, where to aim, and how much power to put in her kicks. Mayu was focused, her hair had reached down to her shoulders now, it was tied at the base of her neck, and he shifted in his seat at the thought of her having long hair once more.

The hours wore on, she finally took a seat on the side, she was covered in a light sheen of sweat, Mori eyed her while she caught her breath. That simple vision of her sweating was engraved into his memory, he imagined that he wanted to make her sweat like that soon, and Mori looked away with a small smile on his face. "What are you thinking about?" asked the maiden.

"Our wedding night." A single dark eye glanced in her direction, her face immediately flushed, and he chuckled; Yuna was sitting by watching with Kuyomi cuddled to her chest. He leaned over, lightly traced his index finger over her scar then around her naval, and placed his lips near her ear while he closed his eyes. "You look very exquisite when you sweat and I'll be sure to make you sweat a lot more than this on that night." Yuna watched in silent amusement as Mayu's face grew more red by the second, when Mori leaned back, he looked at her face, and smiled. She was flustered, she couldn't breathe properly, and he whispered once more, "That's what I like to see."

"U-u-um. E-excuse m-me T-T-Taka."

"Sure."

Mayu got up, she disappeared down a hall, then Yuna followed after her, and Mori stood from his spot on the sidelines. He wanted to spar with his father and Akira grinned at him as they began. Down the hall, Mayu was leaning against the wall, her heart pounding hard in her chest, and she looked up to see Yuna patting her shoulder. "It's alright. I've never seen him act like that with anyone so I'm very glad to have you part of our family Mayu. Come on, let's go get some tea, that'll help us." Mayu nodded, Yuna wrapped her free arm around her shoulders, and kept her close to her body for comfort. "Then you can take a shower to clean off and maybe even give Kuyomi a bath at the same time!" The maiden laughed and nodded, "I also heard that you're going to Okinawa to set some priestesses straight." Mayu grinned as her face began to abate, "That's good. So can you get your kimonos out of storage? I'm sure Shiki would love to get them for you."

"Yes. Before I leave today I'll give him the location of them unless he already has them there by some miracle."

"I know what you mean, the man's a ninja and a telepath!"

"How so?"

"Just the other day, I woke up hungry but I didn't know what I wanted to eat. I found him in the kitchen with two bowls of oatmeal made, mine had freshly sliced persimmons on top and his had some peaches. I invited him to sit with me and we talked all morning, he even made coffee!"

"He's a good person."

"I know and I'm so glad you sent him here. You know he's waiting for you to come here."

"I know. Almost though, very soon." Yuna nodded, "Where's Gammy? I haven't seen her."

"Ah, about that." They paused by a window and Yuna showed the annex that was built for Kuyomi, "Sakura tends to stay in Kuyomi's room until hers is finished, she's always knitting in there, and she's a huge help around here too! She cleans and cooks and takes care of our pets."

"I'm glad she likes it here."

"Boy does she! She's already rearranged our movies and books alphabetically then moved all the dishes around so that she can reach them too without having to ask for any help."

"She's stubborn too."

"I see that both of you take after Aiden in that regard." Mayu laughed as they reached the kitchen, there were two teas already made for them, and Mayu knew that it was the berry tea. "How does he know these things?!"

"I haven't figured that out yet, Mom." Yuna's mouth was open but it soon turned into a broad smile and she encompassed the white haired maiden in a hug that nearly crushed Kuyomi but the baby sputtered out giggles. It caused the two of them to laugh as well so they sat down, blew on the tea, and sipped it while discussing things about Takashi. Mayu told her how he's more flirtatious in the open and Yuna only nodded while grinning, stating that he got that from his father. "I figured as much!" The two women laughed together, soon they were joined by Reiko, she was smiling at them, looked at the tea pot on the counter, and poured herself a cup. She took a seat and joined in on the conversation about the coming Maple Matsuri even though Mayu was simply throwing around ideas, she had to go that coming Sunday to plan everything out. Reiko nodded while Yuna told her to have fun with it since it'll be the only wedding she'll ever have for herself. Mayu smiled and stated, "I can hardly wait!"

"Me too!" chimed in Reiko. The women laughed as they sipped their berry tea and Kuyomi simply continued to sputter his giggles as they conversed about all manner of things while sitting in their training uniforms.

-::::::-

Every day Aiden stopped by to see his little bunny and his son, every day he was never disappointed to see that Mori was there holding the small bundle, and Aiden took it upon himself to get to know his son-in-law better. Of course there was always the hounding board members of the Ishikawa Maple Company but the Ishikawa Head always told them the same thing about being served by a cute bunny. Mori had always smirked at the response which made Aiden grin, he asked about the manju, and Mori said that he was going to make it on Sunday for practice but Haruhi was helping Mayu out so he was at a loss and Haruhi said that she wasn't sure if they were ever going to be able to make it without mayu knowing.

Aiden's eyes lit up, he told Mori, "I'll ask Jackie before I go. When Bun Bun's in the back, you should be able to come over on Sunday when she does inventory day and she'll be able to teach you." Mori nodded, so when Mayu was in the back getting an order together, Aiden had finished his food, dropped the money for the check, and quickly tugged Jackie away from a customer. She was going to protest but he quickly said, "Mori needs help making manju for Mayu's birthday so he'll be over here on Sunday to learn while she's planning her wedding at a friend's house." Kairi grinned, nodded, and the father quickly dashed back to his table, and sipped whatever was left in his cup. Mayu returned to the floor, Kairi entered the back to tell Saki about Sunday, and Moir watched as Aiden hugged his little girl again, patted Kuyomi on the head, and left with a grin on his face.

As the days rolled by, Mayu was finishing up on Saturday, Kairi stated, "You can go Bun Bun! I know you've got some tasty namagashi to make!"

She laughed, "I'll bring some on Monday!"

"Save it for the special!" interjected Saki from the back.

"Tea Bunnies!" came Ren's reply.

Mayu laughed as she headed to the back room, Mori looked at Kairi, she gave him a thumbs up to let him know that tomorrow was all set. He nodded with a small smile and she knew that was his way of thanking her since he didn't want Mayu to get suspicious. His table was cleared off, Nao was there early to see the small bundle, Mori got up, and made his way to her. She cooed at the little boy, "I'm Nao Ishiara, also Thumper. You're such a cutie pie!" Mori smiled at the older woman, "Oh he is so adorable! He would make such a cute baby model!"

"Yue said the same thing," replied Mori.

"I bet he did!"

"You know Yue?"

"I worked with him from time to time when he was a young lad just learning the ropes of photography. He's a good man and his skill is the best." Mori agreed and she waved to the small bundle, "Oh I can hardly wait to see what yours will be Mori!" His face flushed red briefly before it disappeared and Nao only grinned up at him, "Your children will be just as beautiful as this little one and just as bright."

"They may choose to serve Lord Tsukuyomi or Lord Belzeneff."

"It doesn't matter. The moon reflects the sun and thus they will all have bright souls and a wonderful mother."

"I agree."

"Their father is also going to be wonderful."

"How can you tell?"

"The way you are with Kuyomi is a start and I can tell that you care for him as if he was your own. He's going to grow up and use you as a role model." Mori smiled and Nao grinned, "I'm off to work now! Bye Mori!" Just as she turned around, she embraced Mayu, the maiden returned the hug, and they parted ways. "Kuyomi's going to be a strong boy indeed!" The maiden nodded as they left the Castle to head home and Kairi informed Nao of Mayu's birthday. "We should do something for her here too!"

"Already planning!" came Ren's voice from the back. The rest of the crew laughed at her response and Kairi was grinning as she thought about what they could do at the Castle for Mayu, "I'm going to dress her up as a Cupcake Bunny!" Kairi's eyes twinkled as did Nao's and the pair were planning something devious for that day at the Castle.

Kuyomi was now being held by Mayu, she held him close to her bosoum, and Mori glanced down, when she looked up at him with a questioning gaze, he only replied, "I'm jealous of him." Her face turned as red as her eyes, he chuckled, while they walked with their hands entwined down the street towards the complex. Mori noted that her face was still very red as they entered the gate, headed up the stairs, and into the apartment. Mayu removed her shoes as did Mori, she turned around, locked the door, and put the chain on; hands hand slipped underneath her dress, they rested on her hips. Mayu drew in a breath, he kissed her bare neck lightly, and whispered, "The closer it draws, the harder it is for me to control myself." Once more her face heated up, he chuckled, slowly removed his hands from underneath her dress then took Kuyomi from her, and took a seat at the kitchen table while she followed aft her.

Mayu was cutting up vegetables to toss into the rice pot, there were already various lentils with a bit of black rice, white rice, and all that was left were the vegetables she was chopping. Once that was finished, she set it to cook, then brought out all of her ingredients to make namagashi. Mori watched as she brought out a bowl of red bean paste, "When did you make that?"

"Last night when you were sleeping." Mori stared at her, "I got up to feed Kuyomi and figured that I would make some red bean paste from scratch for the Syndicates. The more authentic it is then the better the talks will go." He smiled at her while she glanced over her shoulder at him, she grinned, then there were two knocks on the door. "The Tweedle Twins are here!" He chuckled, got up with Kuyomi on his shoulder, and unlocked the door for the twins. They gasped at the small bundle, Mori let them in, closed the door, and locked it once more.

They followed him to the kitchen while the bag was placed on the dining table, the Twins fawned over the small white-haired bundle. Kaoru was grinning, "He's adorable! Can I hold him?" Mori handed over the sleeping bundle, the baby boy woke up, and began to squabble but a few coos from Mayu calmed him down, "I'm Kaoru, your uncle!"

"I'm Hikaru, your other uncle!" The baby giggled, sputtered, and spit everywhere; Hikaru laughed while Mori picked up the burp cloth and wiped the little infant's face clean. "You're really good with him Mori." The silent host simply shrugged while Hikaru grinned as Kuyomi was handed over to him, Kaoru couldn't help but turn towards Mayu. "I just realized something smells delicious."

"I'm making namagashi for the ceremony later." Their mouths hung open, "If you wait long enough then I'll have some for you." Both males nodded enthusiastically while Mori chuckled, Hikaru took a seat next to the silent host, and Mori was answered his questions about the formula, bottling feeding, and anything else that he wanted to know about.

Kaoru had approached Mayu while she was forming the first batch of namagashi, he watched as she cut circles of dough then placed a small spoonful of red bean paste in the center, and her fingers carefully folded the sphere closed. His yellow eyes were focused on her hand movements, she shaped the sphere into a basic leaf then she removed a small knife, and the blade was gently placed onto the surface. Leaf veins appeared in the blade's wake, he was shocked at the end product, it was a leaf shaped pastry that had delicate lines to resemble the underside of a tea leaf. "Is that a tea leaf?" Mayu nodded, "Can I record you?" She nodded again, "Can I post it on our social media sites?" Mayu nodded again as the questions brought the attention of Mori and Hikaru, they watched as Kaoru whipped out his phone, and got it ready. "Okay, go!" Kaoru was grinning, "Hey fans of our fashion! We've got Mayu here, she's making namagashi!" The cellular phone faced Mayu, she was smiling, she gave a wave, and then it focused onto her flattened piece of dough. She used a circle cookie cutter to make it, then she put just a bit of red bean paste into it, sealed it, and gently rolled it around before placing it down once more. It was shaped, decorated, and then placed with its brethren. Mayu gave a thumbs up, Kaoru ended the video there, and grinned, "Thanks Mayu."

"No problem, I like to share." Kaoru sat down while Kuyomi was handed to him, Hikaru got up to watch the namagashi making, and he was in shock at how fast she could make them. The intricate details were amazing so he took a photograph of one, "I'll have some leftover for you guys."

Hikaru smiled, "Thanks."

"Any time. You're my friends." The Twin smiled and took his seat once more while the rice pot continued to cook, she finished up a few trays, they were placed in the oven, then she started it. "Okay. I'll eat dinner then get changed and let Tetsuya know." Mayu retrieved her phone, she texted Tetsuya that she'll be ready at seven. His response made her chuckle as it was set on the counter, the rice pot beeped, she dug out some bowls, "Are you two hungry?" They looked at one another, shrugged, and she laughed while Kuyomi began to squirm, "Yes, yes Kuyomi! I'll have it ready soon, just sit tight little one." The Twins stared at her while she proceeded to make a bottle for him, as it was heating up, she dished out three bowls of food, each one was placed in front of the males, then she grabbed the bottle, and shut the stove off. The liquid was tested on her wrist, it was perfect, Kaoru handed the bundle over, she looked at Takashi, he smiled, clapped his hands together, and said the prayer; which made Kuyomi calm down.

"Thank you for blessing this day with cool winds and bright sunshine Lady Amaterasu, may Lord Tsukuyomi keep the shadows safe, and protect Kuyomi. May Lord Belzeneff grow ever more powerful as the moon shines bright full or null."

"It was beautiful, thank you Taka." He only nodded while the Twins dug into the food, she fed Kuyomi, when Takashi was finished, he filled up his bowl, and set it down in front Mayu while taking the baby from her so that he could finish the feeding. She ate her bowl, got up, rotated the treats, then sat back down, by the time she was done eating, the treats were ready. The oven was shut off, she removed the trays, placed them on drying racks, then began to get ready for the ceremony. Mayu grinned as she took the bag, "Thank you for this Hikaru, Kaoru." She paused, "Ah, I'll be doing a Tea Ceremony at Ouran for the reunion in the petting zoo." They gasped while she grinned, "I intend to wear another kimono, this one's reserved for Syndicate meetings." Mayu winked at them as their minds began to churn with ideas on what to do next. "I'm going to get ready Taka."

"Alright." The Twins took a seat on either side of Mori as the bottle became empty, it was placed on the table, he burped the infant, and the boy settled down to sleep. Dark grey eyes looked from Hikaru on the left to Kaoru on the right, and he raised a single eyebrow. They laughed together which caused Kuyomi to giggle, they looked at the infant but his face had settled back into sleeping. "Hm...I wonder if he's really sleeping or pretending."

Kaoru started, "We've finished-"

Hikaru interjected, "Your request-"

"We hope that she'll-"

"Like it a lot since we spent quite a bit of-"

"Time on it. Although it's still a shock that you-"

"Would request something like that-"

"However we aim to please-"

"And help our friends!" they finished together. Mori only smirked at them, "Shall we wait until the Bachelor Party to give it to you?" He nodded, "Very well then! We have to gooooo..." He noticed that they trailed off as they had spotted Mayu emerge from the bedroom. His eyes had followed suit and his mouth fell open at her appearance, the silence was only broken by a baby's sputtering giggle.

Her longer hair was pinned to the side with the sun barrette that she had, the under layers were made of pale orange that faded to yellow before being encompassed by a deep crimson kimono, and the trims were embroidered with thin golden thread to resemble small suns. Each long sleeve had an embroidered sun with the same thin thread, another sun was on the back, and her obi was what drew the most attention. It was a pale yellow with orange and red thread depicting the sun high in the sky with a wolf howling, her feet were wrapped in white tabi while she held her geta with yellow straps in her hand. "Too much?" It was then they noticed her face, she wore rose colored lipstick with daffodil eye shadow, and vermilion nail polish. It was the first time that they had actually seen her wear nail polish, Mori's mouth finally closed, and she felt a little bashful.

"It's fine, Mayu. You're beautiful," replied Kaoru smoothly. Hikaru nodded, she thanked them warmly, "I'll help you pack the sweets." She thanked him again while he grinned at her, once in the kitchen, the sweets were placed in many rectangular containers that had a lids that snap onto them, the tupper ware was placed into her market tote, but she made sure to pack up quite a few bags of them for Kaoru. "What are these for?"

"For you and friends. I told you that I'd have some for you."

"Why so many?"

"When making mochi treats, I always tend to make way too many so I hope you like them."

"We will and we'll be sure to drop them off on our way around town." Mayu smiled and thanked him, "So what tea are you going to make there?" It was then that they noticed a jar in the cupboard, it was a large glass mason jar. "What is it?"

"A Tea Ceremony always uses matcha powder to make the tea. I intend to use the same. Tetsuya said that he'll have all the equipment there so it should be alright."

"Is that a special green tea?"

"Of course it is!" She winked at Kaoru, "It's been oxidized and powdered from the very tea bush that I personally raise so it should be perfect for tonight."

"It'll go well."

"Thank you Kaoru." She hugged him while they all left the apartment but the Twins noticed that Mayu made sure the diaper bag was stocked with everything that they would need while away, and they also noticed that Mori held the diaper bag as well as her market tote. It was locked up, the key dropped into the canvas tote, and then they all headed down the steps to the gate. Ritsu's limo was there waiting for them, once more they parted ways, and the door was opened for them; inside, the driver explained to them that things were already tense there. "I'll fix it." He grinned at her as he sped off towards the Kasanoda Residence.

-::::::-

Crimson eyes and dark grey eyes stared at the squabbling before them, both sides were trying to tear at each other's throats, and Kuyomi was quiet through the whole ordeal because Mayu was holding him. Mori blinked many times while Mayu's brow darted down, she could see that Ritsu was trying to calm them down but only ended up getting hit in the face, and she purposely gasped loudly. It drew the attention of everyone present, all the males stared at her, it was as if they were entranced by her appearance, Mori took Kuyomi from her, she nodded her thanks to him, and approached Ritsu. Still none of them could make a move, she gently moved his face to the side, there was some minor cuts, "I'll fix it." Ritsu smirked as he took a seat, Mayu was handed a kit, she dabbed gently at the cuts, then quickly patched it up for him, "All better. May Lord Tsukuyomi bless you with a quick recovery."

"Thank you Mayu."

"You're very welcome. Is everyone settled so I can start?"

"Yep, follow me." Mayu glanced over her shoulder at them, they were still in shock of her, so she turned back around, and they noticed that her tabi covered feet didn't make a sound on the wooden floors. Mori followed after her while Kuyomi was perched on his shoulder once more, in the proper area, the Morinozuka male took a seat, and soon enough everyone else was settled as well. Tetsuya had brought her a stack of small saucers for her pastries along with a stack of cups that were going to be needed for the Ceremony. "Everything's here except for the tea and namagashi"

"I have them."

"You're always prepared."

"If I'm doing a Tea Ceremony then it'll be done proper." The containers were brought out from her tote along with the jar of tea, they were set next to the equipment. Mayu poured the water into the pot but before she began to heat it up, her red eyes locked on everyone in the room, "Not a sound. You can discuss your business when I am finished." Everyone nodded their head, "Very good." She started heating up the water, her hands were clasped together, "Lord Tsukuyomi and Lady Amaterasu, please allow this to be a discussion of peace and please help them to realize that anger is not a solution to problems. Thank you for always listening to my prayers and, I may not need to ask this but I shall, please protect those I hold dear in my heart from harm as I know that they can be involved in some dangerous situations. Thank you for always listening to my prayers, my Lord and my Lady."

The water simmered, she placed some powdered tea into the tea pot, the water was poured in, she stirred it with a bamboo spoon, and then let it sit while she prepared the saucers with a single namagashi. When the tea was ready, she poured it into the cups provided, each pot made four cups so they were paired on the saucer with a namagashi. She set more water to simmer while a saucer and cup was given to the first four in front of her. Mayu bowed to them, they did the same as they took the items given to them, then they moved over so that the next four could get their tea and cake.

Eyes watched her every move, her hands were graceful in everything that she did from pouring the water into the heating pot, to pouring the tea into the cups, to placing the namagashi on the saucers, and then handing them over to waiting men. The room was eerily silent but she didn't seem to mind, in fact it was as if she was used to it, and Kuyomi was still sleeping so that was always a plus. But Mori began to realize that Kuyomi was in tune with Mayu, when she was doing something that required a lot of focus, the infant was always quiet, whereas if she was simply knitting or making dinner, he would cry. However his attentions were riveted onto her as well, the way she moved, it was all reminiscent of when she had served him at the Ishikawa Estate that day, a smile tugged at his lips, something glinted on her hand, and he noticed the ring. It never left her hand, this made his small smile broaden, and his eyes filled with untapped emotion as he watched her prepare the next batch.

Everything she did entranced those around her and he knew that Kuyomi was definitely going to learn the Tea Ceremony although he had a hunch that Mayu had some special Magic Club recipe up her sleeve for it. Finally the last batch was made, she still had just enough to make some for the servants in the house as well as for herself and Mori. So she made them, the servants came out to get it, she handed it to them with a warm smile, they inclined their heads to her, she did the same, then handed one to Mori, and he did the same. Mayu smiled while she had her own cup and namagashi, they all watched as she delicately nibbled on her treat while she sipped her tea. At this point Kuyomi whimpered, Mori handed him over to her, she cooed to him in a quiet voice but it was still audible in the silent room. "It's alright little one. I'm here, I'm here. Nothing to cry about now." The baby was still sputtering, "Oh, I see. You want a lullaby!" Her voice was still that quiet whisper, Kuyomi squabbled a bit more while she chuckled, that bell-like laughter, it entranced those around her, and she smiled, "Alright then." Mayu took in a deep breath, thought for a moment, and a smile caressed her face. Her voice was quiet in the room but everyoen could still hear her as she sang, "Unto you the moon shines and it is there, in the shadows that you'll find; everything you need to comfort you, so all of those sorrows you can shoo; you may not understand it now, but in time you'll come to learn of the moon and the mau; hush now little one, for with the setting moon comes the shining sun; two sides of a coin, two formed from the same loin; just like them we will always be together since we're two birds of a feather."

Mori was smiling at her, she returned that smile as Kuyomi settled down into sleep once more, she finished her tea, and her pastry was given to Mori. He took it with his teeth, he chewed it, then leaned forward, and kissed her. Blushes ran across faces in the room, Mayu felt him push that half-chewed namagashi into her mouth, so she took it willingly. When they broke apart, there was a loving smile on her face, Ritsu was grinning, Mori packed up the containers, and her mason jar. She stood up with him holding the bag and her tote, she held Kuyomi close to her body, and bowed to everyone present. "Thank you for the opportunity to perform a Tea Ceremony for you. It is truly an honor for this Light Maiden to perform one for the Syndicate Meeting. Please, be kind to one another as I am friends with both since women from both work at Shining Grove Greenhouse. I'm sure you can take some advice from them and get along." Her eyes were twinkling, "If not I'm sure I can ask Chiji for some understandings on the Sendo side?" There were gasps from that Syndicate, she laughed, that same bell laughter, and smiled at them, "I'm joking. Chiji is a good friend and I do not take advantage of my friends, you should do the same. Take care then. May Lord Tsukuyomi and Lord Belzeneff protect you in the shadows while granting prosperity and good health to you and your families. If not then do be careful that Lord Belzeneff does not cast a curse upon you in the shadows of my Lady Amaterasu. Have a good evening."

Mayu left it at that while she was guided from the room with Mori following behind her, she was smiling the entire time, the leaders were moved into another room so that they could discuss business and a possible treaty between them. She was lead to the den, she took a seat with Mori next to her, and Kuyomi was still sleeping peacefully. "You did very well, I was impressed."

"Tea is something I know how to do very well."

"I know." He kissed her temple, "I was reminded of when you served me. Your movements are so graceful that it simply entrances everyone."

"That's the idea. To induce a sense of peace, a place for comfort and free thinking. That's what I always envisioned for a Tea Ceremony and it's that philosophy that I bring with me when I perform one."

"It's beautiful."

Mayu smiled while leaning back in the couch, Mori joined her with his arm around her shoulders, "Tomorrow is my wedding planning day." He nodded, "I'll be sure to let go of all my inhibitions." He chuckled while she grinned, "Mom said that it's the only wedding that I'm going to get so I need to make it as special as I can." Takashi nodded, "I can hardly wait for it because then I can call you 'Takashi'." His eyes darted to hers, she was grinning, he leaned in to kiss her, and she returned it but they refrained from anything else as they were in Ritsu's home. "How long do talks last?"

"Well into the night sometimes."

"Ah, we could be here for awhile."

"You want to stay?"

"It's rude to leave without saying goodnight."

"Very true Little Maiden."

"You'll stay with me?"

"Of course. I'll never leave you alone."

"Good because I'll never leave you either." They kissed once more while she snuggled closer to him, the infant was cradled to her chest, he was sleeping soundly, and Mori asked about the lullaby. "It's from one of the scrolls. Meant for a servant of Lord Tsukuyomi but I added the last line in because it's true. Perhaps I'll add it to the scroll too." He said it would be a great idea, "Thank you Taka." They were silent for a little bit, "I love you Takashi."

"I love you too Mayu." Kuyomi sputtered gibberish at them, she chuckled while Mori smiled, "I guess he says that he loves us as well." Mayu nodded while Takashi grinned down at the little bundle, and it was then that they saw his eyes open. They were a very pale blue just as Sakura had said with a darker blue on the rim, "Nice to see you Kuyomi." Mayu chuckled the baby giggled and Mori kept that grin on his face while he pulled his little family closer together, as if he wanted to protect them from whatever dangers lay ahead, and he knew there would be more because Mayu's sisters were relentless.