Chapter 9: New Arrivals
Kate walked back to the group, Kanon close behind her. "Sue? Is there a chance that this child will survive?" she asked.
"I don't know.....I don't think Teazer is barren but.....that doesn't mean that she won't loose it. We best pray for her."
"Is there not anything else to be done?" Kate asked.
"Well I think it would do her good if she was back at home."
"Home....."Kate smiled a little at the thought. Kanon noticed this, and then turned her eyes to the ground.
Misto was thinking about home as well. He was just thinking about his sister when he felt a slight twang in his forehead then he saw her. Is younger sister Victoria was lying in her bed, she was in quite a lot of pain, but she still had a smile on her face. Misto gasped as the vision quickly came and left. Kanon looked at him slightly alarmed. Kate was the same "What is it, Misto?" she asked.
Misto shook his head to clear it "I just had a vision."
"I know how that feels." said Kanon. "What was it?
"My sister....." he said. Kanon face looked completely serious.
Sue then slapped her own forehead "Oh no! I completely forgot!" she said. She must have known about Victoria.
"Is she?" Kate asked.
"She is." Said Misto,
"Wait! Will she be harmed in the future?" Kanon asked slightly panicked.
"No she will be in labor." He said.
"When?"
"I'd say in about half an hour at most..."
".....and the child?"
"The vision didn't take me that far.....I just know we're needed at home."
"Then.....you should go....." Kanon said and turned away.
"Kate, she wanted you there....." Misto said. Kanon started walking away.
"I know Misto....but wait...." Kate watched Kanon walk away and followed after her. Kanon went out the door of courtyard and into the forest. She kneeled down on the grass as the wind began to pick up. The cool breeze seemed to comfort her. She sighed. Kate walked quietly towards her "Kanon....?"
"Why are you still here?" Kanon asked not looking at Kate. "His sister needs you."
"Well I....I was hoping that....."
"I can't come with you, Kate. I need to stay here, it's where I belong."
"Oh....."
"If I were to leave now, who knows what might happen....if I had not gotten here sooner, everyone would have been dead. Shishio would have finally won, and I can't let something like that happen....again." As she spoke, Kanon's heart was breaking. She so desperately wanted to go with Kate. Why couldn't Kate just stay with her? But she knew she couldn't make her stay.
"You should hurry....."
Kate nodded "I know I should, but...."
"But what?"
"I....I don't know." Kate sighed and turned around "Goodbye." It was the one word that she had hopped she would never have to say to Kanon. Kate walked back to the dojo, while at the same time Kanon took off into the forest.
Kate didn't know how she could leave, but knew she had to. She made her way back to the courtyard where Misto was waiting. "What happened, Kate?"
"She's not coming.....she can't come." As Kate began to cry, Misto let her rest her head on his shoulder. "We can't stay much longer Kate, the sooner we leave the better." Misto didn't want to leave yet either, he felt they had to wait a little longer, but they couldn't afford to lose much time.
Kanon kept running through the trees, till she found a cave she knew. Inside the cave glittered with crystals of different sizes and colors. "Draco....?" She said softly "Are you there?"
In answer to her call, the great dragon stepped into the light. Kanon smiled slightly at the sight of him, but Draco didn't return it. He just looked into her eyes and said "Why did you run, Ari?"
"I was scared.....I didn't know what to do."
"So you ran?" He asked in disappointment "Ari, I thought I taught you that running away won't solve-"
"I KNOW!! I know!" Kanon shouted, her anger rising. Her face started to grow red, her breath quickened. Her furry was building like the battosai was going to surface once again.
"You think I wanted to run?! Do you?! What would I do if I wasn't here to protect my friends?! I'd lose them, just as I lost you!!"
"You may lose Kate as well....." Draco said sadly.
Kanon looked up quickly, staring at the dragon "What....what do you mean?"
"I can see many happenings in the near future, Ari. Kate has her enemies too, Ari, she's been fighting just as you have. If something were to happen in her world wouldn't you feel responsible? You can't put the weight of the world on your shoulders...." Then Draco finally smiled "And besides, I see no danger coming to this world."
Kanon looked down to the ground; she felt she couldn't meet Draco's eyes.
"Ari.....go with them.....nothing will happen to you're friends.....I swear on our heart."
Once again Kanon looked up at the Dragon with a genuine smile on her face "Thank you old friend" She then ran as fast as she could back through the trees, and as she did so, Draco disappeared.....smiling.
"Come, we must leave" Sue said to the others. The portal had opened and was waiting for them. Kate kept looking behind her, hoping that Kanon would come running to join them, but there was no sign of her.
"Kate, lass, come." Said Templeton.
"I...I can't....I can't leave yet...." Kate said desperately.
Sue sighed. "Jerrie, you take Teazer and go first." She said. MungoJerrie took his mate and helped her through the portal.
"Templeton, your next...."
Templeton stepped through. Sue looked at Misto and Kate. Kate was still looking back.
"I'll go next. Misto, see that she comes." Then Sue to a step and crossed through.
Misto turned to Kate and waited.
Kanon was running as fast as she could, hopping that Kate wouldn't leave without her "Wait for me...." She thought "....I'm coming...."
Kate had almost given up hope when her friend came running through the doors "Hey guys! Wait up!!!!" she yelled laughing when she saw that Kate and Misto had waited like they knew all along.
Misto knew that unless somebody stepped through the portal, it would close up. "Hurry Kanon! Kate I must go now."
"Alright."
"I'll meet you there." And with that, Misto stepped through.
"Kanon! Come on hurry!" Kate shouted happily.
When Kanon reached Kate she stopped to catch her breath.
"Does this mean you're coming?" Kate asked.
"Yeah....."
"Then Jump!" Kate took Kanon's hand in hers. Kanon looked back for a moment a bit worried, and then she remembered Draco's promise "I swear on our heart...." Then she whispered "Thank you....my brother...."
"Come..." said Kate
And together they jumped through the portal, and it closed behind them.
~*~
Kate landed into Misto's arms like they were waiting to catch her. Kanon, unfortunately, land on her butt.
"Ow!"
Templeton came to help her up "I'm sorry, Lass, if only I were the catching type."
"Oh don't fuss Templeton. I'm fine. Cup of tea and I'll be right as rain. Well what are we waiting for? We got a baby to deliver!"
"Come along then." Sue said leading the way. Just when they reached Victoria and Plato's house, a young Jellicle girl came running from up the road "Sue!" the girl cried.
"Jemima? What is it, child?" Sue asked looking concerned.
"It's Mama! She has fallen and she won't wake! Papa doesn't know what to do!" The girl said, tears streaming down her red cheeks.
"Is there anything I can do?" Kanon asked.
"Yes Kanon there is." Sue answered and then turned to Kate. "Kate, lass, I must attend to her mother...."
"But Victoria needs-"
"I know she does. You remember what I have told you about delivery?"
Kate eyes widened. Sue couldn't be doing this....could she? Still Kate nodded and she answered in a shaky voice "Y-yes...."
"You have seen me perform this task many times, ever since you were a child. I know you can do this."
"B-b-but....I...I I...."
"There isn't time Kate! I know you can do this. I must go now." Then Sue ran, following Jemima.
"Sue!" Kate called after her "What if I....? Oh...." Kate put her hands on her head. This was actually happening. She sighed. Kanon put her hand on her shoulder "You'll be fine Kate, ok?"
Kate nodded
"So don't get your knickers in a twist....."
"Kanon!"
Kanon raised her hands, smiling "Ok ok! I'm sorry! I was just trying to lighten the mood here. Come on, I know you'll do wonderful."
Kate sighed, and pressed her face to Misto's shoulder "Lord, my life is out of my hands...."
"Kate, come on now.....Sue taught you well." Misto said. "Victoria has been waiting to see you."
Kate finally nodded. "Alright, let's go." Then she turned to Jerrie "You should take Teazer home to rest, Jerrie. I'll come see you as soon as possible." She said. Jerrie agreed.
"Shall I go with them?" Kanon asked.
"No, I think they need some time by themselves.....besides I may need you here."
"Alright then. Jerrie, Teazer, you take care of yourselves." Kanon said.
Jerrie nodded "You too, now. I'll see you in a while. Let us know how it goes!" Jerrie then helped his mate along the path to their home.
"Aye....."
Misto led the way to the door of his sister's home, Kate and Kanon right behind him. Kanon kept her hand on Kate's shoulder, hoping that would comfort her. Misto knocked on the door "Plato! Are you here?"
The door was answered by a tall Jellicle; his fur was white with red and brown patches. Kanon at first was slightly intimidated, for this Tom was quite bigger then Misto. She could tell that this Jellicle had great strength. But on his face he expressed concern.
"Oh thank goodness!" The Jellicle said "It was at least two hours since I called for Sue, I was getting worried."
"Don't worry, Plato, we're here." Misto said.
"Yes....Plato this is my friend, Kanon." Kate said.
Kanon walked up to Plato, all intimidation gone completely "It's a pleasure, Plato."
"That it is Miss." Plato smiled. "I'm glad you're all finally here. Victoria is having a bad time."
"Plato, don't be alarmed" Kate said trying to be calm her self "but Sue was called away. Don't worry; I'll take care of things."
"I may be a help as well" said Kanon "Megumi taught me a little about birthing babies."
"Come inside." Plato said.
Once inside Kanon whispered to Kate "It shouldn't be too hard right? Birthing a Jellicle baby?"
Kate nodded, a Jellicle baby was not much different from human a baby, and she's seen them both be born.
"Where is Victoria now?"
"In the bedroom."
Kate walked into the bedroom, bringing Kanon with her. She found Victoria lying in bed. Victoria was the only pure white Jellicle in Rosedail. She smiled at the sight of Kate and Kanon.
"How are you feeling, Victoria?" Kanon asked, as Kate went to Victoria's bedside.
"As well as I can be." Then Victoria looked at Kanon curiously "Who are....?"
"My name is Kanon Susanoo. I'm here to help...."
"I'm happy about that because-" Vicky paused when she had another contraction "Ahhh! Because I'm going to need help..."
Kate poured some cold water from the basin, wet a cloth and placed it on Vicky's forehead. "Just relax now...." She said.
"Kate what do I need to do?" Kanon asked.
"I need you to have Plato and Misto get a few things. Tell Misto to boil some water. Please asked Plato to get a bottle of wine, a spool of thread and a scissors." Kate helped Victoria sit up a bit on her pillows.
"Is that all you need?" Kanon asked before she left.
"Just look and get all the towels you can find." Kate answered.
"Alright. I'll be right back." Kanon left the room to find Misto and Plato. They were talking when she found them; Plato was already pacing the floor.
"How is she?" Misto asked when he saw Kanon.
"She's in a bit of pain. Kate says to boil some water, Misto."
"Aye."
"And Plato....?" Plato had been nervously cracking his knuckles.
"We need a bottle of wine and a pair of scissors. I'll look for thread."
And they all were about doing their tasks. Kanon made it back to the room first with the thread and many towels. Kate took them and placed them for when they would be needed. Then Misto brought hot water in a cauldron, and Kanon helped him set it down. Victoria smiled at the sight of her older brother "Hello Misto."
Misto kisses her cheek. Plato came in with the scissors, and the wine. Kanon quickly took the items from him, set them down and turned to both men. "Ok, you boys shoo!" Kanon started to usher them out "Women's work from here on in, ok c'mon out you go, move it or lose it, go on!" And just before they could reach the door... "OUT!!!!" Kanon shouted. Misto and Plato bolted.
"Alright, Victoria, how's it coming?" Kanon asked.
"Ahhhhhhh!!!!!"
"Does that answer your question?" Kate asked.
"Yes, it does..."
Victoria was now in great pain. Kanon took out some herbs from her pouch. "Here, eat these. They will help with the pain." Victoria took the herbs gratefully. Kate put the scissors in the hot water. "Alright, prepare to get your hands dirty." Kate said as she removed the bed sheets. She felt the white Jellicle's round tummy. "Victoria, I want you to breathe in between pushes. Here take this," Kate rolled up a rag and put it to Victoria's lips "bite down on that when you push." Victoria nodded.
Kate took a deep breath "Lord here we go....."
Kanon stayed by Victoria's side. Victoria grabbed her hand, squeezing tighter as the pain intensified. Kate was at the foot of the bed "Alright, Vicky, ready?"
"Y-yes.....Ahhh!" Victoria threw her head back. Kanon held her steady.
"On the count of three, push. 1, 2, 3...." Kate counted.
Victoria held her breath, as she pushed. Victoria squeezed Kanon so tightly she feared her fingers would break.
"Its coming Vicky....another push 1, 2, 3....."
"Ahhhh!"
"I see the head!"
"Really?" Kanon asked.
"Yes we have a head."
"Oh, oh! Is it a boy or a girl?" Victoria asked excitedly.
"I don't know, so far it's only a head.....alright 1, 2, 3....."
Victoria sobbed. "Your doing fine Vicky!" Kanon said.
"She's right Vicky, one more....1, 2, 3...."
Victoria gasped. Kate gasped as well "I got it!"
Kanon looked. Indeed a tiny little kitten Jellicle was in Kate's hands.
"It's a girl!" Kate said happily.
"Well done, Victoria...." Said Kanon "well done....."
"Everlasting cat.....oh....." Victoria breathed.
"Kanon I need towels. We must get this little angel clean." The tiny little Jellicle began to cry. Kate wrapped her up in a nice warm towel. Then she rested her on a pillow next to Victoria, who suddenly gasped.
"Oh dear....Kanon?" Kate said.
"Hmm?"
"Back to your position....."
"Why?"
"There's another coming!!!"
"Ahhh!!!!"
"Stay strong, Ladies." Said Kanon. "We're going to make it through!"
"Let's go Vicky....1, 2, 3...."
Victoria hissed through her teeth.
"Kanon open the wine bottle and give her a swig." Kanon did so and took the rag from Victoria's mouth. Victoria took a long drink. Kanon then replaced the rag in the white jellicle's mouth.
"Bite down on it Vic...." Said Kanon.
"Alright I see then head now."
Victoria cried as she bit down on the rag.
"Keep it up, we almost got it...."
"Kate! I want it out! NOW!!!!" Victoria yelled in a muffled voice.
"You're doing wonderful! Alright just one more Vicky just one!....1, 2, 3....."
Meanwhile in the other room, Misto was trying to meditate to pass time but Plato was pacing the floor and was distracting him. Suddenly Plato halted when he heard his mate shriek in the other room.
"Oh....suddenly I don't feel well...." He said.
"Plato, you're making me nervous, SIT DOWN!!" Said Misto "I'm worried enough as it is...."
Plato finally made up his mind and took a seat next to Misto. Kanon poked her head through the bedroom door. Misto and Plato both looked up at once.
"It's going great boys!" She said smiling, then another scream was heard behind her.
"Uh.....be right back...." And back inside she went. Plato and Misto tried to peek inside but the door shut behind Kanon before they could see anything.
Plato dropped his head into his paws. Misto pat his back "Plato it will be fine."
"First Kitten....think I'll make a good father?"
"Well there has to be something you can do."
Plato elbowed him in the ribs.
Back in the bedroom, all was well.
"Good girl, Victoria....wonderful...." Kate said, wiping sweat from her forehead. Kanon smiled as she watched Victoria hold two small bundles in her arms.
Kate sighed. "Two....I never thought I would deliver two."
Kanon grabbed Kate by the shoulders "You were great back there! See? You were worried over nothing."
"You were right. Better get the lucky father huh?"
"Yes, will you do the honors Kate?"
Kate smiled and opened the bedroom door "You may come in now Plato....."
Plato practically rushed to the door the moment she opened it. "Plato you have a daughter....."
".....and a son!" Kanon finished, smiling.
Plato's mouth dropped open. "Two of them?"
Victoria smiled "We have twins!"
Kanon smiled and elbowed Plato "Way to go, tiger, hehe....." Kate laughed. Plato sat at Victoria's bedside and took his daughter in his arms. "They're so tiny...." Misto just then stuck his head through the door "What did I miss?" he asked excitedly.
"We have twins in here!" Kanon said.
"And I think we should leave the love birds alone with them for a while. Come Kanon." The two girls started heading for the door. Misto hesitated. "Misto, don't worry. You will be seeing your niece and nephew for a long time. Come on." Kate said and Misto followed.
"Sue is going to be so happy."
"I'm so proud of you, Kate" Misto pulled Kate into a tight hug.
"What will they name them?" Kanon asked.
"I don't know....we'll have to find out at the celebration." Misto said.
"Oh yes I forgot."
"Celebration?" Kanon asked.
"It is Jellicle custom that when a kitten is born in a village, all the Jellicles and their friends all gather together to welcome the new arrival. And for twins.....oh it will be a party to remember!"
Kanon smiled at the thought.
"It should be tomorrow evening, when Victoria is rested." Said Misto. They were still hugging when Kate remembered "Jerrie!"
"Oh I forgot!"
"We should go to their house. I want to see Teazer and tell them the news." Kate said
"Alright" Kanon agreed.
After telling Plato and Victoria where they were going, the three of them headed down the path to Jerrie and Teazer's house. When their home finally came into view, Kate began to slow down. She knew this should be great news and it was! But then she thought of Teazer. This news could either brighten her spirits or bring her more pain. Still she would find out soon. Kate kept walking. Jerrie was not outside working like usual. Kanon sensed Kate's unease but said nothing. Finally they reached the door and knocked. "Jerrie! Open up it's us!"
They could hear Jerrie call from inside "Aye I'm comin'...." He opened the door "I'm sorry, Teazer's asleep."
"Oh I'm sorry, how is she?" Kate asked.
"Better."
"That's nice to hear." Kanon said.
"Come on in...." Jerrie stepped aside to let them pass. "You have news....how does your sister fare Misto?"
"Wonderful!"
"And....?"
"Twins!" All three said at once.
"Twins?" Jerrie said eyes wide.
"Twins!"
"Aye, that's wonderful news! You think Victoria can handle it?"
"She's now the youngest mother in the village but I'm sure she can take it." Said Misto "Ever since we were children she would take on anything."
Kate rocked on her heals, thinking. She looked towards the bedroom door, where she knew Teazer was sleeping. She wanted to go in and see her but knew she shouldn't be disturbed. The toms were talking amongst themselves. Kanon walked up to Kate "Is something wrong?"
"Hmm not really.....just wish there was more I could do....for Teazer I mean."
"Don't worry....she's going to be alright." Kanon smiled.
Kate smiled back and looked out the window. She stared into space for a while then something caught her eye. Kate frowned. Outside, on the trunk of a tree was a sheet of parchment, a notice. "Hmm...."
Jerrie and Misto looked up and noticed Kate looking out the window "You alright, luv?" Jerrie asked.
"Jerrie? Do you know what that's for?" Kate asked, still looking outside. Kanon saw it too and went outside to take a look. The parchment was held to the tree with a dagger. Kanon took it down and looked at it, but she couldn't read it.
"What is this Kate?"
Kate came outside to look "It's written in Jellicle...figures....few humans can read it. Here let me see...." Kanon gave her the parchment she read it silently. "Misto? Jerrie you better take a look at this...."
Both Toms came outside to see. Kate was now looked very worried.
"What? What is it?" Kanon asked, very concerned.
"It's a warning..." Kate said. "Macavity has returned...."
Kate walked back to the group, Kanon close behind her. "Sue? Is there a chance that this child will survive?" she asked.
"I don't know.....I don't think Teazer is barren but.....that doesn't mean that she won't loose it. We best pray for her."
"Is there not anything else to be done?" Kate asked.
"Well I think it would do her good if she was back at home."
"Home....."Kate smiled a little at the thought. Kanon noticed this, and then turned her eyes to the ground.
Misto was thinking about home as well. He was just thinking about his sister when he felt a slight twang in his forehead then he saw her. Is younger sister Victoria was lying in her bed, she was in quite a lot of pain, but she still had a smile on her face. Misto gasped as the vision quickly came and left. Kanon looked at him slightly alarmed. Kate was the same "What is it, Misto?" she asked.
Misto shook his head to clear it "I just had a vision."
"I know how that feels." said Kanon. "What was it?
"My sister....." he said. Kanon face looked completely serious.
Sue then slapped her own forehead "Oh no! I completely forgot!" she said. She must have known about Victoria.
"Is she?" Kate asked.
"She is." Said Misto,
"Wait! Will she be harmed in the future?" Kanon asked slightly panicked.
"No she will be in labor." He said.
"When?"
"I'd say in about half an hour at most..."
".....and the child?"
"The vision didn't take me that far.....I just know we're needed at home."
"Then.....you should go....." Kanon said and turned away.
"Kate, she wanted you there....." Misto said. Kanon started walking away.
"I know Misto....but wait...." Kate watched Kanon walk away and followed after her. Kanon went out the door of courtyard and into the forest. She kneeled down on the grass as the wind began to pick up. The cool breeze seemed to comfort her. She sighed. Kate walked quietly towards her "Kanon....?"
"Why are you still here?" Kanon asked not looking at Kate. "His sister needs you."
"Well I....I was hoping that....."
"I can't come with you, Kate. I need to stay here, it's where I belong."
"Oh....."
"If I were to leave now, who knows what might happen....if I had not gotten here sooner, everyone would have been dead. Shishio would have finally won, and I can't let something like that happen....again." As she spoke, Kanon's heart was breaking. She so desperately wanted to go with Kate. Why couldn't Kate just stay with her? But she knew she couldn't make her stay.
"You should hurry....."
Kate nodded "I know I should, but...."
"But what?"
"I....I don't know." Kate sighed and turned around "Goodbye." It was the one word that she had hopped she would never have to say to Kanon. Kate walked back to the dojo, while at the same time Kanon took off into the forest.
Kate didn't know how she could leave, but knew she had to. She made her way back to the courtyard where Misto was waiting. "What happened, Kate?"
"She's not coming.....she can't come." As Kate began to cry, Misto let her rest her head on his shoulder. "We can't stay much longer Kate, the sooner we leave the better." Misto didn't want to leave yet either, he felt they had to wait a little longer, but they couldn't afford to lose much time.
Kanon kept running through the trees, till she found a cave she knew. Inside the cave glittered with crystals of different sizes and colors. "Draco....?" She said softly "Are you there?"
In answer to her call, the great dragon stepped into the light. Kanon smiled slightly at the sight of him, but Draco didn't return it. He just looked into her eyes and said "Why did you run, Ari?"
"I was scared.....I didn't know what to do."
"So you ran?" He asked in disappointment "Ari, I thought I taught you that running away won't solve-"
"I KNOW!! I know!" Kanon shouted, her anger rising. Her face started to grow red, her breath quickened. Her furry was building like the battosai was going to surface once again.
"You think I wanted to run?! Do you?! What would I do if I wasn't here to protect my friends?! I'd lose them, just as I lost you!!"
"You may lose Kate as well....." Draco said sadly.
Kanon looked up quickly, staring at the dragon "What....what do you mean?"
"I can see many happenings in the near future, Ari. Kate has her enemies too, Ari, she's been fighting just as you have. If something were to happen in her world wouldn't you feel responsible? You can't put the weight of the world on your shoulders...." Then Draco finally smiled "And besides, I see no danger coming to this world."
Kanon looked down to the ground; she felt she couldn't meet Draco's eyes.
"Ari.....go with them.....nothing will happen to you're friends.....I swear on our heart."
Once again Kanon looked up at the Dragon with a genuine smile on her face "Thank you old friend" She then ran as fast as she could back through the trees, and as she did so, Draco disappeared.....smiling.
"Come, we must leave" Sue said to the others. The portal had opened and was waiting for them. Kate kept looking behind her, hoping that Kanon would come running to join them, but there was no sign of her.
"Kate, lass, come." Said Templeton.
"I...I can't....I can't leave yet...." Kate said desperately.
Sue sighed. "Jerrie, you take Teazer and go first." She said. MungoJerrie took his mate and helped her through the portal.
"Templeton, your next...."
Templeton stepped through. Sue looked at Misto and Kate. Kate was still looking back.
"I'll go next. Misto, see that she comes." Then Sue to a step and crossed through.
Misto turned to Kate and waited.
Kanon was running as fast as she could, hopping that Kate wouldn't leave without her "Wait for me...." She thought "....I'm coming...."
Kate had almost given up hope when her friend came running through the doors "Hey guys! Wait up!!!!" she yelled laughing when she saw that Kate and Misto had waited like they knew all along.
Misto knew that unless somebody stepped through the portal, it would close up. "Hurry Kanon! Kate I must go now."
"Alright."
"I'll meet you there." And with that, Misto stepped through.
"Kanon! Come on hurry!" Kate shouted happily.
When Kanon reached Kate she stopped to catch her breath.
"Does this mean you're coming?" Kate asked.
"Yeah....."
"Then Jump!" Kate took Kanon's hand in hers. Kanon looked back for a moment a bit worried, and then she remembered Draco's promise "I swear on our heart...." Then she whispered "Thank you....my brother...."
"Come..." said Kate
And together they jumped through the portal, and it closed behind them.
~*~
Kate landed into Misto's arms like they were waiting to catch her. Kanon, unfortunately, land on her butt.
"Ow!"
Templeton came to help her up "I'm sorry, Lass, if only I were the catching type."
"Oh don't fuss Templeton. I'm fine. Cup of tea and I'll be right as rain. Well what are we waiting for? We got a baby to deliver!"
"Come along then." Sue said leading the way. Just when they reached Victoria and Plato's house, a young Jellicle girl came running from up the road "Sue!" the girl cried.
"Jemima? What is it, child?" Sue asked looking concerned.
"It's Mama! She has fallen and she won't wake! Papa doesn't know what to do!" The girl said, tears streaming down her red cheeks.
"Is there anything I can do?" Kanon asked.
"Yes Kanon there is." Sue answered and then turned to Kate. "Kate, lass, I must attend to her mother...."
"But Victoria needs-"
"I know she does. You remember what I have told you about delivery?"
Kate eyes widened. Sue couldn't be doing this....could she? Still Kate nodded and she answered in a shaky voice "Y-yes...."
"You have seen me perform this task many times, ever since you were a child. I know you can do this."
"B-b-but....I...I I...."
"There isn't time Kate! I know you can do this. I must go now." Then Sue ran, following Jemima.
"Sue!" Kate called after her "What if I....? Oh...." Kate put her hands on her head. This was actually happening. She sighed. Kanon put her hand on her shoulder "You'll be fine Kate, ok?"
Kate nodded
"So don't get your knickers in a twist....."
"Kanon!"
Kanon raised her hands, smiling "Ok ok! I'm sorry! I was just trying to lighten the mood here. Come on, I know you'll do wonderful."
Kate sighed, and pressed her face to Misto's shoulder "Lord, my life is out of my hands...."
"Kate, come on now.....Sue taught you well." Misto said. "Victoria has been waiting to see you."
Kate finally nodded. "Alright, let's go." Then she turned to Jerrie "You should take Teazer home to rest, Jerrie. I'll come see you as soon as possible." She said. Jerrie agreed.
"Shall I go with them?" Kanon asked.
"No, I think they need some time by themselves.....besides I may need you here."
"Alright then. Jerrie, Teazer, you take care of yourselves." Kanon said.
Jerrie nodded "You too, now. I'll see you in a while. Let us know how it goes!" Jerrie then helped his mate along the path to their home.
"Aye....."
Misto led the way to the door of his sister's home, Kate and Kanon right behind him. Kanon kept her hand on Kate's shoulder, hoping that would comfort her. Misto knocked on the door "Plato! Are you here?"
The door was answered by a tall Jellicle; his fur was white with red and brown patches. Kanon at first was slightly intimidated, for this Tom was quite bigger then Misto. She could tell that this Jellicle had great strength. But on his face he expressed concern.
"Oh thank goodness!" The Jellicle said "It was at least two hours since I called for Sue, I was getting worried."
"Don't worry, Plato, we're here." Misto said.
"Yes....Plato this is my friend, Kanon." Kate said.
Kanon walked up to Plato, all intimidation gone completely "It's a pleasure, Plato."
"That it is Miss." Plato smiled. "I'm glad you're all finally here. Victoria is having a bad time."
"Plato, don't be alarmed" Kate said trying to be calm her self "but Sue was called away. Don't worry; I'll take care of things."
"I may be a help as well" said Kanon "Megumi taught me a little about birthing babies."
"Come inside." Plato said.
Once inside Kanon whispered to Kate "It shouldn't be too hard right? Birthing a Jellicle baby?"
Kate nodded, a Jellicle baby was not much different from human a baby, and she's seen them both be born.
"Where is Victoria now?"
"In the bedroom."
Kate walked into the bedroom, bringing Kanon with her. She found Victoria lying in bed. Victoria was the only pure white Jellicle in Rosedail. She smiled at the sight of Kate and Kanon.
"How are you feeling, Victoria?" Kanon asked, as Kate went to Victoria's bedside.
"As well as I can be." Then Victoria looked at Kanon curiously "Who are....?"
"My name is Kanon Susanoo. I'm here to help...."
"I'm happy about that because-" Vicky paused when she had another contraction "Ahhh! Because I'm going to need help..."
Kate poured some cold water from the basin, wet a cloth and placed it on Vicky's forehead. "Just relax now...." She said.
"Kate what do I need to do?" Kanon asked.
"I need you to have Plato and Misto get a few things. Tell Misto to boil some water. Please asked Plato to get a bottle of wine, a spool of thread and a scissors." Kate helped Victoria sit up a bit on her pillows.
"Is that all you need?" Kanon asked before she left.
"Just look and get all the towels you can find." Kate answered.
"Alright. I'll be right back." Kanon left the room to find Misto and Plato. They were talking when she found them; Plato was already pacing the floor.
"How is she?" Misto asked when he saw Kanon.
"She's in a bit of pain. Kate says to boil some water, Misto."
"Aye."
"And Plato....?" Plato had been nervously cracking his knuckles.
"We need a bottle of wine and a pair of scissors. I'll look for thread."
And they all were about doing their tasks. Kanon made it back to the room first with the thread and many towels. Kate took them and placed them for when they would be needed. Then Misto brought hot water in a cauldron, and Kanon helped him set it down. Victoria smiled at the sight of her older brother "Hello Misto."
Misto kisses her cheek. Plato came in with the scissors, and the wine. Kanon quickly took the items from him, set them down and turned to both men. "Ok, you boys shoo!" Kanon started to usher them out "Women's work from here on in, ok c'mon out you go, move it or lose it, go on!" And just before they could reach the door... "OUT!!!!" Kanon shouted. Misto and Plato bolted.
"Alright, Victoria, how's it coming?" Kanon asked.
"Ahhhhhhh!!!!!"
"Does that answer your question?" Kate asked.
"Yes, it does..."
Victoria was now in great pain. Kanon took out some herbs from her pouch. "Here, eat these. They will help with the pain." Victoria took the herbs gratefully. Kate put the scissors in the hot water. "Alright, prepare to get your hands dirty." Kate said as she removed the bed sheets. She felt the white Jellicle's round tummy. "Victoria, I want you to breathe in between pushes. Here take this," Kate rolled up a rag and put it to Victoria's lips "bite down on that when you push." Victoria nodded.
Kate took a deep breath "Lord here we go....."
Kanon stayed by Victoria's side. Victoria grabbed her hand, squeezing tighter as the pain intensified. Kate was at the foot of the bed "Alright, Vicky, ready?"
"Y-yes.....Ahhh!" Victoria threw her head back. Kanon held her steady.
"On the count of three, push. 1, 2, 3...." Kate counted.
Victoria held her breath, as she pushed. Victoria squeezed Kanon so tightly she feared her fingers would break.
"Its coming Vicky....another push 1, 2, 3....."
"Ahhhh!"
"I see the head!"
"Really?" Kanon asked.
"Yes we have a head."
"Oh, oh! Is it a boy or a girl?" Victoria asked excitedly.
"I don't know, so far it's only a head.....alright 1, 2, 3....."
Victoria sobbed. "Your doing fine Vicky!" Kanon said.
"She's right Vicky, one more....1, 2, 3...."
Victoria gasped. Kate gasped as well "I got it!"
Kanon looked. Indeed a tiny little kitten Jellicle was in Kate's hands.
"It's a girl!" Kate said happily.
"Well done, Victoria...." Said Kanon "well done....."
"Everlasting cat.....oh....." Victoria breathed.
"Kanon I need towels. We must get this little angel clean." The tiny little Jellicle began to cry. Kate wrapped her up in a nice warm towel. Then she rested her on a pillow next to Victoria, who suddenly gasped.
"Oh dear....Kanon?" Kate said.
"Hmm?"
"Back to your position....."
"Why?"
"There's another coming!!!"
"Ahhh!!!!"
"Stay strong, Ladies." Said Kanon. "We're going to make it through!"
"Let's go Vicky....1, 2, 3...."
Victoria hissed through her teeth.
"Kanon open the wine bottle and give her a swig." Kanon did so and took the rag from Victoria's mouth. Victoria took a long drink. Kanon then replaced the rag in the white jellicle's mouth.
"Bite down on it Vic...." Said Kanon.
"Alright I see then head now."
Victoria cried as she bit down on the rag.
"Keep it up, we almost got it...."
"Kate! I want it out! NOW!!!!" Victoria yelled in a muffled voice.
"You're doing wonderful! Alright just one more Vicky just one!....1, 2, 3....."
Meanwhile in the other room, Misto was trying to meditate to pass time but Plato was pacing the floor and was distracting him. Suddenly Plato halted when he heard his mate shriek in the other room.
"Oh....suddenly I don't feel well...." He said.
"Plato, you're making me nervous, SIT DOWN!!" Said Misto "I'm worried enough as it is...."
Plato finally made up his mind and took a seat next to Misto. Kanon poked her head through the bedroom door. Misto and Plato both looked up at once.
"It's going great boys!" She said smiling, then another scream was heard behind her.
"Uh.....be right back...." And back inside she went. Plato and Misto tried to peek inside but the door shut behind Kanon before they could see anything.
Plato dropped his head into his paws. Misto pat his back "Plato it will be fine."
"First Kitten....think I'll make a good father?"
"Well there has to be something you can do."
Plato elbowed him in the ribs.
Back in the bedroom, all was well.
"Good girl, Victoria....wonderful...." Kate said, wiping sweat from her forehead. Kanon smiled as she watched Victoria hold two small bundles in her arms.
Kate sighed. "Two....I never thought I would deliver two."
Kanon grabbed Kate by the shoulders "You were great back there! See? You were worried over nothing."
"You were right. Better get the lucky father huh?"
"Yes, will you do the honors Kate?"
Kate smiled and opened the bedroom door "You may come in now Plato....."
Plato practically rushed to the door the moment she opened it. "Plato you have a daughter....."
".....and a son!" Kanon finished, smiling.
Plato's mouth dropped open. "Two of them?"
Victoria smiled "We have twins!"
Kanon smiled and elbowed Plato "Way to go, tiger, hehe....." Kate laughed. Plato sat at Victoria's bedside and took his daughter in his arms. "They're so tiny...." Misto just then stuck his head through the door "What did I miss?" he asked excitedly.
"We have twins in here!" Kanon said.
"And I think we should leave the love birds alone with them for a while. Come Kanon." The two girls started heading for the door. Misto hesitated. "Misto, don't worry. You will be seeing your niece and nephew for a long time. Come on." Kate said and Misto followed.
"Sue is going to be so happy."
"I'm so proud of you, Kate" Misto pulled Kate into a tight hug.
"What will they name them?" Kanon asked.
"I don't know....we'll have to find out at the celebration." Misto said.
"Oh yes I forgot."
"Celebration?" Kanon asked.
"It is Jellicle custom that when a kitten is born in a village, all the Jellicles and their friends all gather together to welcome the new arrival. And for twins.....oh it will be a party to remember!"
Kanon smiled at the thought.
"It should be tomorrow evening, when Victoria is rested." Said Misto. They were still hugging when Kate remembered "Jerrie!"
"Oh I forgot!"
"We should go to their house. I want to see Teazer and tell them the news." Kate said
"Alright" Kanon agreed.
After telling Plato and Victoria where they were going, the three of them headed down the path to Jerrie and Teazer's house. When their home finally came into view, Kate began to slow down. She knew this should be great news and it was! But then she thought of Teazer. This news could either brighten her spirits or bring her more pain. Still she would find out soon. Kate kept walking. Jerrie was not outside working like usual. Kanon sensed Kate's unease but said nothing. Finally they reached the door and knocked. "Jerrie! Open up it's us!"
They could hear Jerrie call from inside "Aye I'm comin'...." He opened the door "I'm sorry, Teazer's asleep."
"Oh I'm sorry, how is she?" Kate asked.
"Better."
"That's nice to hear." Kanon said.
"Come on in...." Jerrie stepped aside to let them pass. "You have news....how does your sister fare Misto?"
"Wonderful!"
"And....?"
"Twins!" All three said at once.
"Twins?" Jerrie said eyes wide.
"Twins!"
"Aye, that's wonderful news! You think Victoria can handle it?"
"She's now the youngest mother in the village but I'm sure she can take it." Said Misto "Ever since we were children she would take on anything."
Kate rocked on her heals, thinking. She looked towards the bedroom door, where she knew Teazer was sleeping. She wanted to go in and see her but knew she shouldn't be disturbed. The toms were talking amongst themselves. Kanon walked up to Kate "Is something wrong?"
"Hmm not really.....just wish there was more I could do....for Teazer I mean."
"Don't worry....she's going to be alright." Kanon smiled.
Kate smiled back and looked out the window. She stared into space for a while then something caught her eye. Kate frowned. Outside, on the trunk of a tree was a sheet of parchment, a notice. "Hmm...."
Jerrie and Misto looked up and noticed Kate looking out the window "You alright, luv?" Jerrie asked.
"Jerrie? Do you know what that's for?" Kate asked, still looking outside. Kanon saw it too and went outside to take a look. The parchment was held to the tree with a dagger. Kanon took it down and looked at it, but she couldn't read it.
"What is this Kate?"
Kate came outside to look "It's written in Jellicle...figures....few humans can read it. Here let me see...." Kanon gave her the parchment she read it silently. "Misto? Jerrie you better take a look at this...."
Both Toms came outside to see. Kate was now looked very worried.
"What? What is it?" Kanon asked, very concerned.
"It's a warning..." Kate said. "Macavity has returned...."