Disclaimer: If I owned it would I need to write a fanfiction about it? I'd animate it, that's what I'd do.

A/N: Onward ho! My goal for this story, as short in chapters as it may be, will be to make it long enough to be a challenge for writers to beat…some of who I know will do it with ease. Like LadyMac, who could if she really wanted to…and some other people who I don't know about.

My word goal for this chapter…at least 10000! If not…then around 2k will do.

Oh, and the name of the sequel book to Howl's Moving Castle (per request of a reviewer) is Castle in the Air. So pick up the book and start reading people!

Oh yeah, I think this is going from a T to an M. Not for sex really, just the insinuations and a little teasing to everyone. Not that anyone really cares…not that anyone normally reads the A/N…

Close Your Eyes

Chapter 5

Sophie's mood improved as the days passed and she entered into her third trimester. The spell Howl had worked up for her allowed her to get by most days with little to no back pain at all, which was something Sophie thanked Howl for everyday. Howl at this point was scared to suggest the thought of having sex with Sophie to Sophie, namely because he didn't want to loose the children and also because he didn't know how she'd react.

"Sophie?" he would always begin, pondering what sort of reaction he'd get and what sort of mood she'd be in.

"What is it?" she would ask sweetly. Sometimes it came out "What in the world could you want?" which sounded a lot more moody. He didn't ask her anymore, not this far in the pregnancy and really fearing her reaction. He didn't want her to break down again, but then again, that aside, he feared a little that if he didn't ask, she'd ask him why he didn't love her that way anymore and would break down anyway, not understanding any of his reasoning. Thus the argument was, to tell, or not to tell, to ask or not to ask. To get hurt, or be forced to carry a heavy bundle up the stairs, heavier than a month ago, or some other odd thing. She still was into 'unique' dishes of milk and orange juice, or a salsa smoothie with peanut butter on top…which sunk to the bottom. Howl cringed with some of the things Sophie was still asking for.

"Howl, stop thinking so hard, it looks like you're lost!" Sophie said loudly, spurring Howl to look up from the couch where he'd been pondering things on to stare into his wife's kind and teasing eyes. Now in her seventh month of pregnancy, she was very big. Howl really though she had twins and wanted to know the genders, but she still always said no. They had arranged for a midwife for her ninth month to come and help her prepare for the birth and also to help around the house a little. Well, it was more like Howl had arranged it with Sophie's asking and persistent talk about how a midwife would help make the birth (which she only wanted a little help on pain wise) as natural and safe as possible, although she had agreed for Howl's sake and for her own life if her life was in danger he could use magic. She had a thought stuck in her mind that at nine months the baby's had fully developed so magic making sure they (or it) and she didn't die wouldn't harm the child (or children).

"I was just thinking for the sake of thinking," he said as he stood up and brushed a nonexistent piece of lint from his lapel. Sophie sighed; he was so different lately it bothered her, like there was something nagging at the back of his mind that he had yet to ask. "I didn't mean to worry you."

"You're so hopeless sometimes Howl," she said teasingly and smiled up at him. He sat back down and motioned for her to sit in his lap. "No way Howl, with the way I am now I'll probably squish you."

"I doubt that," he said in a reassuring way and she made her way over to him and sat in his lap. He let out a huff of air as everything in his lungs disappeared. He adjusted his sitting position and hers for that matter until he found himself able to breathe again.

"Howl, are you all right?" Sophie asked him with worry in her voice. "I didn't squish you did I?" He laughed, her concern for him was something that never failed to amuse him. He was sturdier than most and took great pride in that fact too, even without Calcifer he was strong.

"I'm just fine my love," he said. "Are you all right?"

"I'm sitting down comfortably, and that's something, but then again, I always do when I'm in your arms," she whispered.

"You're so sweet," he said with a laugh. "I love you."

"And I love you," she replied and her face went blank for a moment. "Were we going to talk about something?"

"I think I was going to talk about how beautiful you look." Sophie stared at him with amusement tinkling in her eyes.

"Are you buttering me up for something?" she asked with a knowing grin and a loving little kiss upon his lips.

"I would never think to do such a thing," he said with laughter twinkling in his eyes once more. "I don't need to butter you up to do anything." He let out a small cry of pain as she hit his shoulder playfully. "Well, perhaps for a few things my love, but that is all." Another cry of pain followed the first. "Many things then, does that suffice your appetite for pain?"

"Almost," Sophie said and lightly punched his shoulder one more time for good measure. "You're so wonderful to be putting up with me through all this."

"I really wouldn't have it any other way. I couldn't imagine any other woman carrying my children that would remain so beautiful throughout the entire pregnancy. For that matter, I wouldn't want any other woman to carry my child other than you," he whispered into her ear. "You are truly the only one for me."
"Do you think so?" she asked. "Howl, you are seriously buttering me up, what is going on?"

"Do you want the truth and the whole truth?" he asked her in a serious tone of voice. Sophie nodded and he sighed. "All right, it was just that I wanted to talk to you about… making love. We haven't done it since we found out you were with child and now it might be too late because I don't want to loose the child because we were….well, I mean…"

"I get what you mean. You're in the mood because it's been a while, eh?" she asked teasingly.

"Does that make it a yes?" he asked.

"Didn't you just say you didn't want to loose the child or children by doing it?" she asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Well yes but I'm sure there are ways…" he trailed off when the look on her face turned to glaring.

"Unless you know one of those safer ways Howl right off the top of your head the answer is no," she said and stood up, waddling to the stairs before going up. "I'm going to take a rest now Howl." She went up as quickly as she was able and disappeared around a corner.

"I see you're having a few problems Howl?" Calcifer asked as Howl stood up himself and went to his pile of books.

"It's no problem," Howl said as he began digging his way through his books. "I just have to find out how we can do it safely. There is a way. I could've sworn that in the midst of one of these books I saw something…"

"Have fun looking then," Calcifer said pleasantly. "Tell me what it is when you find it. I don't think Sophie will like it if it has to do with magic though, so be careful."
"I don't believe what I saw had magic in it. Why are you interested in this anyways Calcifer?" Howl asked with a glance at his friend.

"Maybe because I just want to make sure Sophie isn't going to go on another cleaning rampage or not talk to me if you mess this up," Calcifer said and tried to make a fierce face, which just ended up being a puff of flame coming from his mouth. "That and I'm curious. Is there anything wrong with being curious?"

"Nothing wrong at all," Howl said. "But sometimes I think you're a little too curious."

"Same goes with Sophie," Calcifer said. "She can be just a little too curious as well."

"I see where you two get it from then, each other," Howl said and sat down to begin reading one of his books. "Now don't bother me, I'm reading."

Calcifer let out a puff of flame. "Since when has that ever stopped me talking?"

Howl poured over almost every book related to pregnancy that he now owned, something he knew Sophie would have him get rid of once the children arrived. Most of these books would be gone then…well, gone in the sense Sophie wouldn't worry about having to clean them anymore. Howl, when redoing the baby room had also created a place for a sort of 'deep storage' for his collection of books. Sophie didn't know about the place, or so he hoped, because that was where he kept all his books that he wasn't using at the current time. Knowing Sophie though, she probably did know and kept the place clean and free from moths and just didn't tell Howl she was doing it.

"There has to be something here. She basically offered if I could find it!" he exclaimed as he paged through another book.

"Sure there is," Calcifer said and with a glare from Howl disappeared into the logs for a moment. "Do you want my help?"

"Do you know the book?" Howl asked. "I'm not letting you touch any of the books and you know why."
"I might know a name," Calcifer said. "But then again I might not."

"Just tell me the name Calcifer!" Howl exclaimed, standing up.

"I think Howl's just a little moody today, isn't he?" Calcifer teased.

"Don't give me that," Howl said with a dangerous note in his voice.

"Perhaps I should call for help from Sophie or Markl," Calcifer said and opened his mouth wide.

"I wouldn't wake Sophie if I were you and Markl is out with the witch of the waste. Apparently she's decided she'd rather live on her own now," Howl said with a sigh.

"When she's been turned back into her true age? I highly doubt that," Calcifer said.

"That's why Markl is with her. Apparently there's a home for old people who want to be independent. He's taking her there to see if that's where she'd like to stay," Howl said. "Sophie and I are paying for it of course, it's not as though the witch can take care of herself by herself anymore. Gives a little more room to our castle, don't you agree?"

"I for one will be glad when she's gone," Calcifer said. "I hated it when she first came here and was staring at me and then when she grabbed me and then she now keeps staring at me!"

"Come on, she's like our grandmother with the way she looks." Howl smiled teasingly at his friend, his anger quickly fading and he sat down and turned back to his book.

"I always hated my grandmother," Calcifer said.

"How do you even know your own grandmother?" Howl asked.

"Before I fell from the sky she boxed me on the ears. It hurt," Calcifer said. "She told me to take care and don't do something stupid."

"You're lying through your teeth and you know it," Howl said.

"I don't have any teeth to lie through," Calcifer said.

"Taking a literal meaning doesn't mean it's any less of a lie that came out of your fiery mouth." Howl turned the page of his book irritatingly and glared at Calcifer who shrunk back once again.

"Okay fine, so maybe I didn't have a grandmother but the witch of the waste still scares me and creeps me out. Let her go to an old folk's home. It'll be good because then she won't be able to scare your future children," Calcifer said, getting brave once again.

"You have a lot of opinions don't you?" Howl asked.

"You know what? There's a book down by your hand, you haven't looked through it yet I recommend you do. Get some from Sophie and come back less moody and less argumentative." Calcifer let out a huff of smoke and settled down. "I'm going to take a nap, have fun without me."

"Have fun? If that's what you think it is then you don't know what fun is," Howl muttered and then his voice turned to an upset whisper. "All I want is one night with Sophie…is it too much to ask?" He grabbed at the book that Calcifer had pointed him to and buckled down to read once again.

Sophie crept downstairs to see her husband once again immersed in reading. Not only was he vain and selfish but she thought he was starting to turn into something obsessive compulsive as well. She saw Calcifer sleeping by in the fire pit, clearly he must have gotten bored with what Howl was doing. She doubted he'd even realize she had woken up and come down. There was a banging at the door and Sophie rushed forward as quickly as possible to open it. Markl pushed past her and she shut the door carefully before walking back up to the main room.

"Where's the witch of the waste?" she asked.

"You know how she wanted to live on her own so I suggested this one place where old people can pretty much live independently?" Markl asked.

"Oh yes, I seem to remember Howl and her arguing over all sorts of things lately. I think she just might have had enough, so that's why you were gone?" Sophie asked.

"Yeah, and don't have me repeat any of what the arguments were about either. But anyways, she made up her own mind this place was to stifling so I took her to a place like she wanted. She's staying the night to see if it's right for her." Markl made a face. "She was really odd." Sophie smacked him upside the head. "Ow, what was that for?"
"I'm sorry she felt that way so badly she had to leave. I really knew nothing of this at all!" Sophie exclaimed and then sighed. "It won't be the same without her around. She really can't get on by herself too well, you do know that, right Markl?"

"There are people there to help the elderly. It's their job!" Markl said excitedly.

"I believe that's called a retirement home then?" Sophie asked.

"Na-uh, because she gets to do what she wants to do but they're there to make sure she's okay. It's like a prison but no restrictions and no cell bars!"

"That's not a kind way of putting it," Sophie said. "Does she want to really leave or is she just trying to go after another heart?"
"Could be," Markl said with a shrug. "I mean I saw a lot of young guys working there. She might just want their attention."
"She hasn't changed. So she's only leaving so she can live 'on her own' and be assisted when she needs to by young men?" Sophie asked with a sigh. "Well she can do that then, it's her choice!"

"I think she's just a little jealous Sophie that there isn't anyone here available. Markl is still too young and Howl is married to you," Calcifer's voice piped in and Sophie and Markl turned towards the fire demon. "She's probably also a little lonely. She didn't need help until her powers were drained from her and she became her true age."

Sophie pondered his words. "I think you're right Calcifer. Well, if this will help her feel better than by all means she should do it."

"Sophie, I'm hungry," Markl said. "What's for dinner?"

"I don't know. Something simple I guess. We have to eat on chairs near Calcifer again I'm afraid. Oh dear, come to think of it ever since I told Howl I was pregnant we haven't really had a meal at the table have we?" Sophie asked. "Sorry Calcifer, no offense."

"None taken. I'll take company when I get it. You should really be pregnant more often," he replied teasingly. "Why don't we have eggs?"

"That sounds good," Markl said as he licked his lips.

"Breakfast for dinnertime? That's ridiculous Markl, I don't think so Calcifer, not tonight." Sophie looked at the two disappointed faces and gave in with a sigh. "All right then, fine, we'll have breakfast for dinner. Howl, we're going to eat now, could I get a little assistance making it?" Howl didn't stir from the book he was in and she let out another sigh. "Howl, all I'm asking for is a little assistance." He continued to ignore her and Sophie let out a huff of annoyed air. "Fine then, I'll make it myself. I can cook just as well as you but don't blame me if I get hurt!" Howl raised his head then and looked over at her.

"What did you say about hurting yourself?" he asked worriedly.

"Ah, so those are the magic words," Markl said. "If Sophie might be in danger Howl won't hesitate to come to her aid."

"I wanted some help making dinner," Sophie said, ignoring Markl. "It's due to the fact I'm not entirely sure I could cook well in this condition, I mean I could possibly do it but I'm not sure I have the strength at the current time."

"Say no more, I'm on it!" Howl said and ran to grab the pan. "What do the two of them want?"

"Eggs!" Markl and Calcifer said.

"Breakfast for dinner? Why didn't I think of that myself. Sounds good," Howl said and then walked up to Sophie and gave her a quick kiss on the lips. "But of course you know eggs aren't just a breakfast food, right?"
"They are only a breakfast food for me when not in something I cooked," she said teasingly. "That's my philosophy."

"I see, well either way, we're having eggs…bacon too I suppose?" he asked and turned back to Markl and Calcifer, with Markl now standing by Calcifer's side. Both nodded. "I guess I am forced to be the chef tonight!" He went about preparing their dinner and Sophie waddled over to the book Howl had been reading from and let out a short gasp as she glanced over to see what had drawn his attention so. 'Karma Sutra for the expecting mother'.

Howl had a plan to get Sophie to have sex with him now. That book Calcifer had pointed out for him had been a great help. He had picked out one of the easiest things to do and one of the most gentle, the bathtub. The bathtub would be filled with water, well, of course it would and then because water makes people more buoyant and lighter (one and the same in this case) and thus would follow that love making would be easier. Of course Howl was taking all sorts of precautions and making it as romantic as he possibly could. Calcifer was right, he really was on edge lately and needed some. Only problem was, this late in the pregnancy really worried him and he was on the verge of backing out, if not for the fact then Sophie might think that he thought she wasn't attractive anymore.

He smiled as he remembered their wedding night. She had been nervous and he had been uncertain. Both really hadn't been in love before and neither knew what to do really, except for things they had heard…Howl had heard more than Sophie of course. For all Howl's flirting he had never really experienced the art of making love before Sophie. Howl laughed at the irony of it all, such a flirt and never experienced that next step. It wasn't because he had the sense to wait until marriage, it was simply because…well, he didn't exactly have an explanation for it. Perhaps it was his conscience that got the better of him and he didn't even know it.

Whatever it was it didn't matter anymore. He had Sophie and they had been each other's firsts. It had been a night full of magic and love and a bond so deeply formed that he would let nothing shatter it. And tonight would be another celebration of that love hopefully. Markl was already in bed, the witch of the waste now away, possibly forever, Hein sleeping by Calcifer who was extremely tired but extremely well fed from bacon fat and egg shells and then Sophie…who was doing a little cleaning up before coming upstairs to his surprise for her. Well, she probably knew something about it but it would still mostly be a surprise.

Howl sighed. The romance was still there in their lives even though she was pregnant and it would still be there once their family started, he'd make sure of that. He heard footsteps and peeked out the bathroom door to see Sophie coming upstairs, gripping the banister as she went up each step, muttering about something. Howl exited the bathroom after doing one final check and went to assist his wife.

"May I be of assistance love?" he asked and she looked up at him.

"Are you offering help?" she asked. "Because if you are I'm accepting it." Howl came down to the step she was on and helped her walk up the rest of the way. Once they were finally at the top Sophie gasped a little as she caught her breath.

"I think we might have to move the bedroom downstairs for you love," Howl said, "At least until the children are born. Either that or install some kind of elevator."

"No, no, I'm fine. This is nothing, really." Sophie's voice was reassuring but he still wondered if the bedroom downstairs, which used to be Sophie's old room, should be made for her once more to make things easier on her. "Besides, I prefer it up here. Our upstairs bed is so much more comfortable."

"I agree," he said with a smile. "Much more so when you're in it with me."

"How is the children's room coming along?" she asked him. "You've been reading a bit these past few days so I assume either you're waiting to finally adjust the room or your too busy with other things to finish it just yet." She didn't tell him she had a good idea what he was about to do just from the name on the book, and she was glad he had found a way. She did wonder lately if he still truly found her sexy and pretty enough and the book was proof of that. She wasn't vain, just worried what the pregnancy was really doing to their relationship sometimes, although (with that book) her worries had now faded and she was relieved he still wanted her.

"It's still in the works and will have to be once more if it does turn out to be that you are having twins," he said as they began to walk down the hall. The bathroom lay just ahead.

"What if I have triplets?" she joked.

"It's entirely possible, don't joke," he said. "I don't know what I'd do having three children right off the bat and everything. Two I can handle."

"But three would be trouble? Isn't it true the best things always come in threes?" she teased.

"I don't know. It's the first time I've heard that said," Howl said and realized they were at the door to the bathroom. He smirked. "I could test that out now…"

"What, test out that good things always come in threes?" she asked with a smile. She knew perfectly what he was up to now.

"Perhaps my dear Sophie, perhaps," he said and before she could respond he kissed her, gently brushing his lips over hers and her eyes closed as he slowly drew her in. His hand fumbled around her for the door and once his hand was on the knob, he opened it and gently nudged her in. Sophie gasped as she saw what was laid out for her and him. Candles lined the tub and it smelled so sweet in the air, which oddly enough wasn't making her feel sick, as in the earlier months strong scents made her nauseous.

"It's beautiful in here," Sophie whispered in awe and Howl came in behind her, shutting the door behind him. "You were looking at that book weren't you then, for ways to be with me…"

"I know it seemed like a ploy just to get some but I really do have method behind this madness," he said with a smile and kissed her gently again.

"What could that be? Oh Howl, I don't care about those!" she exclaimed and kissed him fiercely. "I thought you didn't want me anymore."

"Ah, one of the reasons comes into the light. I could tell a little you were beginning to worry I didn't find you attractive and sexy anymore. I promise you Sophie, I never once all through this so far ever found you lacking in attractiveness. The mere fact you're carrying my child means makes you more appealing to me than anything, the mere fact that you're carrying it willingly as well." Sophie smiled at the comment.

"Does that mean you don't have an ulterior motive other than that?" she asked. "I could have sworn you were on edge lately and I thought I heard Calcifer murmuring how you needed to get some or something like that."
"Multiple motives always lead to the same goal," he purred in her ear and kissed her neck. "Do you approve of the setting? I've done a little research and I think this will suit…"

"You always do research," Sophie said and her husband raised his head to look at her, his eyes twinkling with laughter. "But I accept this as a wonderful place to test such research." She watched him as he began to move to kiss her once again and sighed as he embraced her, wrapping his arms around her gently.

"Good then. Where shall I begin?"

Howl touched Sophie's hair, still slightly damp from the bath. Ah, just a few hours in there had done much to relax him, just as Calcifer thought it would, not that he'd ever tell the demon. She wasn't complaining about pain or anything so the children must be safe. He was glad they had done it now, because he'd be fine until after the children were born (or so his horny self hoped). He traced a finger down her side and leaned forward to kiss her damp hair before raising himself back up on his elbow to observe her. The bed was a little wet now but he didn't mind. She hadn't been completely out of it until she got into the bed with him and fell fast asleep. He really must have exhausted her, but then again, she always fell asleep in his arms whenever they had done it in the bed, it was normal and he loved that about her, really.

As he yawned, he realized he was tired as well, but he couldn't help it, watching this sight before him was just too much; she was just too beautiful. "Ah sweet Sophie, I don't think you even know what you do to me sometimes." He pulled the blankets up to cover both of them more and settled down to kiss her on the forehead and draw her into his arms. It was a little difficult to do so, but he managed to get her at least nestled in the crook of his one arm. Sophie smiled and snuggled closer to him and Howl closed his eyes contentedly. This was a woman worth keeping.

From downstairs Calcifer smiled and spurt out a mixture of flame and smoke as he reached over to grab another log. "I told him it would do him good, but did he listen? Yes! Finally, after all this time, it takes Sophie getting pregnant to get him to actually listen to some of my advice."

Sophie awoke the next morning in the crock of Howl's arms. She sat up and the memories of the previous night flooded to her mind. She shifted on the bed, wrapping a top blanket around her as she used the ladder to get down from the bed and went to fetch some clothes and began to waddle to the door to head to the bathroom. She smiled at the thought of the bathroom. "I think I'll have to thank Calcifer for suggesting such a wonderful book for Howl to get his ideas from."

Markl stared at the ceiling of his room as the morning light filtered in. He had just woken up and his eyes shifted towards the door. "I don't want to know and I don't want them to tell me."

Howl woke to see Sophie had already gotten up and was most likely in the bathroom getting ready for the day. He smiled to himself grandly. "I still got it."

… (A/N: Halfway there!)

As Sophie entered her eight month of pregnancy she found nothing could keep her from doing whatever it was she wanted. She wanted to do everything and anything that she could, from mending clothes that didn't need mending or cleaning rooms that had just been cleaned the day before. Whatever possessed her to do it didn't seem to tire her out in the end either. Calcifer called this the 'storm before the hurricane before the birth before the calm', whatever that meant. She cooked elaborate dishes each night and had forced Howl to keep the table they ate at clean around dinner time so she could pile high mounds of food around it. Howl and Markl and Calcifer didn't eat too much of it, just enough to be full, and they had to get to it quickly now because Sophie was eating for two, or three, or perhaps four as the case was. Sophie in the back of her mind doubted it was two or three children now because she had heard from someone how twins and triplets were always born prematurely, so she sincerely thought it was one…even though Howl had told her that each pregnancy was different.

He had returned to redecorating the baby's room, new designs being drawn up almost by the dozen as he poured over pieces of paper, designing rooms that would be fit for one, two and three children if the case came around to it.

The witch of the waste had decided to stay in the old folks home Markl had shown her to, the young men there were giving her the most attention she would ever need and she could do things by herself now with fresh energy that seemed to come from nowhere, like with Sophie although Sophie's energy didn't seem to tire her out at all. Whereas the witch seemed to take an early bedtime on occasion or would take naps once in a while as well (as per the letter the witch had had sent). Sophie was still sad and a little lonely now that she was officially the only woman left in the house but was glad the witch of the waste was happy where she was and resolved that when she could after the baby was born to visit often. Calcifer was the happiest of the family, excited to almost a fault that the witch of the waste would no longer look at him with those odd looks anymore.

Howl and Markl, although they pretended to be sad she was gone to save Sophie's feelings from being hurt, didn't mind much that she had left as there was a little bit more room around the house (even if Howl could remodel whenever he felt like it). There was also the fact they could practice spells and not have to watch out for anyone but Sophie, who had become adapt at avoiding them even in the late stages of the pregnancy.

Every day that passed Howl made sure to tell Sophie how beautiful she looked, kiss her around a dozen times and make sure she was quite comfortable wherever she went. He even did have to expand the bathroom in the downstairs now, just to make it better for her and to give her easier access. Markl kept feeling Sophie's stomach, as the child (or children) were quite active, kicking and pushing on the walls of her stomach as if to say hi. Calcifer would often watch though as Howl, more than Markl, would lay his head down on the flat of her stomach and rub his hands over her bulge, wanting to feel the life within her. Howl would stay there for long moments which seemed like hours, just talking to the future life or lives that awaited him. He even sang to them which Sophie was surprised at, because Howl, for all his lack of instrumental ability could sing a most beautiful song.

That being said, he really knew only how to sing child nursery rhymes and little songs that were from his place of birth but Sophie loved listening to it nonetheless. Her future child was very lucky to have a father like Howl, even if he was rude and vain. Yes, Howl loved to feel the life inside of Sophie and she found herself giggling at the touch of his fingertips against her bare stomach. Dresses no longer fit her, (they had stopped fitting her a long time ago) and she instead had to wear skirts that she could hardly see unless she was sitting down or looking over her shoulder and button up tops like the ones Howl wore. She could hardly see her feet ever and often told Howl she looked forward to the day when she could see them again.

Calcifer would make remarks here and there about planning out what names should be and Sophie would listen to all the names Calcifer would list, filing them away in the back of her mind while Howl completely ignored them, working on the baby's room and still trying to find spells to help Sophie give birth more painlessly. They had even called a midwife in to make sure she was all right and the midwife promised to assist with the birth when the time came.

"Howl dear, Hein has to go outside!" Sophie exclaimed and hushed Calcifer from saying anything for a moment, glancing towards the dog now currently waiting at the back door. "Would you let him out?"

"Very well," Howl said, disappointment in his voice. He stalked over to the door and opened it, leaving it open as Hein ran around in the yard. He had been neglected slightly over the past few months, Sophie realized and she resolved to pay better attention to him too once she had given birth as well. Markl was off somewhere for the moment, possibly getting sweets at the sweet shop where Sophie's sister worked but she didn't worry. He could take care of himself fairly well and she trusted he wouldn't do anything dumb while he was out. Truth be told, she trusted Markl in public more than she trusted Howl, but she would never tell Howl that, at least not to his face.

"So anyways Sophie, can I continue?" Calcifer asked and Sophie turned to face him again, smiling broadly and nodding.

Before Calcifer could say anything Howl was already back inside. "It looks like rain so I'm going to close the upstairs windows. I'll leave the ones here open, nothing like the smell for fresh rain but I don't want it getting on anything important upstairs." He bounded up the steps, leaving the door outside to the back open for Hein when he wanted to come back in. Sophie sighed and put a hand on her stomach.

"That's your father," she whispered to them lovingly.

Calcifer cleared his throat loudly. "Can I continue now?" Sophie nodded. "Good. Okay, a new boy's name I had in mind was Raul."

"It doesn't sound right to me," Sophie said.

"All right then, here's another boy's name, Yuki!" he said proudly.

"Still doesn't sound right."

"Never fear, I have more! How about Simon?"

"No."
"Onto girl's names then. How about Sophitia?"
"No," Sophie sighed. "it sounds to similar to my name, too similar."

"Raine?"
"No."

"Chihiro?"

"Nah."

"Tohru."

"Doesn't sound right."

"Okay then… Umi!"

"That's a girl's name?"

"Moving on… how about Wind or June?"

"Pretty but not quite," Sophie said and stood up, stretching out her arms and yawning. "I need to move around for a bit Calcifer. I'm sorry that the names aren't helping me find the right ones any easier, they are good choices though."

"I'll have more ideas tomorrow you can bet on it!" he said. Calcifer, for all the anger he had over the little things that didn't work out for him didn't get angry over not finding the right name. Sophie figured the reason he wasn't upset over it was because of the fact he got attention whenever he had ideas for names and was lonely enough not to argue when Sophie said the names didn't sound right, and just came back with more later. Or something like that, she couldn't really figure that one out. Calcifer just seemed to have all these names, like he'd been planning on this happening, which he probably was. Calcifer did a lot more than he said he did, and was also most likely scheming what he was going to teach the children once they were born. She smiled again and sighed.

"Sophie love, come over here for a moment," Howl said and she walked towards his beckoning hand and took it into her own. "Ah, there you are."

"What do you want to see me about?" she asked. "Don't tell me you actually want me to look at the plans for the children's room before it's done." Her teasing voice sent Howl to glare at her but she began to laugh and he sighed, giving up trying to do anything about her mood.

"No, that's not it," Howl said and brushed his hand against her cheek before drawing her into a quick and yet deep kiss.

"Howl!" she exclaimed laughing. "You're just all over the place, aren't you?" Howl began laughing with her.

"My dear, I think you are right. Perhaps I am much too restless!" he said. "I would suggest traveling somewhere for a while to shake it off, but at the moment you're not in much shape for traveling. How far along are you now? Eight months, right?"

"Yes Howl, look how big I am!" she exclaimed. Howl grabbed her hands and started to dance a little with her around the room. "What is up with you?"

"I found it! I found it!" he exclaimed.

"What did you find love?" she asked as he let her catch her breath. "What is it that you found?"

"The one spell I was looking for. I told you I'd find it!" he exclaimed. Sophie smiled at him, happy for him accomplishing a task…but she didn't remember what spell he had been looking for. Her look of joy changed to puzzlement and he looked at her with wide eyes. "Don't you remember the spell I told you I was looking for?"
"I don't recall it love, I'm sorry," she said bashfully. "I really honestly don't at the moment."

"It was the spell to make sure the pregnancy went smoothly. Just to make sure you don't suffer as much pain as what's normal. I found the spell! Now all I have to do is practice it to make sure I can perform it, not that I won't be able to in the end. No spell is too hard for me to master!" He looked at her with wide excited eyes and kissed her again. When they broke away from the kiss, she remained breathless and he kissed her again before she could catch her breath. She didn't want to spoil his happiness at all, and she was glad he had found the spell he had been searching for so that he could help her.

"Would you two lovebirds just get a room already?" Markl's small voice caught them both off guard and they turned towards the door to see the boy balancing a few packages as he made his way up the stairs.

"What do you have there?" Sophie asked, rushing forward as fast as she was able to offer her aid to the boy. She took a few of Markl's packages and carried them to the table.

"Sweets of course," he said. "The sweet shop where your sister works is the best! I got them all fresh too! This is the best stuff."

"I am a little hungry," Sophie said. "I wouldn't mind a few sweets and I'm sure the baby won't either."

"You speak as if you know its tastes already," Howl said as he opened up one of the packages with interest.

"Shouldn't I?" she asked. "I may not truly know what they'll like once they're born but right now when they're with me my tastes are their tastes, or his or her tastes, as the case may be."

"I see your reasoning," Howl said and pulled out a sweet bun.

"Doesn't it all look delicious?" Markl said and opened up another package. "I got something a little sweet and spicy for Calcifer too." He pulled out a piece of something and tossed it at the fire demon, who caught it in his mouth and chomped on it happily before licking his fiery lips. "Did you like that?"
"Tastiest thing I've had in a long time," Calcifer said. "Howl, even you should try a bit of it, although it might just be a little to hot for you to handle."

"Ha, I'll bet," Howl said defiantly as he reached into the same box that the sweet had come out of and pulled out a piece, popping it into his mouth. He chewed for a few moments before gagging and spitting what he had chewed out onto the floor. "HOT!"

"Howl, that's disgusting!" Sophie exclaimed.

"Eww, I'm not touching that," Markl said. Sophie let out a sigh and glared at her husband with a knowing look of 'you and your stupid pride' and went to grab the broom and dustpan, sweeping up the spit out food and she gave it to Calcifer.

"I'll eat it, but I won't enjoy it," Calcifer said with a shudder as the lump was fed to him. "It's got Howl germs on it. Only reason…" He paused to chew and then glared at Howl. "Only reason I ate it was because the cake itself was good. I told you it was too hot for you, but did you listen? NO! I mean seriously Howl, how stupid are you?"

"I'm not apologizing. You could have said no and not have had to eat it too," Howl said and tossed the rest of his piece at Calcifer, who at it without comment. "You're a sucker for sweets, no matter what form they come in because you don't get many."

"Wow, state the obvious why don't we?" Calcifer said. Sophie let out another sigh as she put away the broom. Those two fought like a married couple…which, at one point though they technically were…kinda.

"Shut up both of you," Sophie said and stole the other cake Howl was holding, eating it in a few short bites. She smiled at Howl's stunned look before reaching into the first box he had opened and eating another sweet. "Just enjoy these, all right?"

"I don't really think you should have too many of those my dear, I don't want you making yourself sick," he said. "I honestly don't need you to be sick when you make me sick so often already."

"I don't make you sick!" Sophie exclaimed. "You bring it upon yourself you child!" He let out a yelp as she bopped him on the head. "But back to the topic we began discussing before Markl came in, about the spell you found to make giving birth easier for me?"

"Ah, of course, all I wanted to enforce was that I would be practicing that spell often now to make sure I get it right." He let out a sigh and then smiled. "It is a little difficult, but nothing is impossible for me to do!"

"I can name a few things," Calcifer said and Howl glared at him. "But I won't, because friends don't do that to other friends. Of course, when the day comes I need something I will use blackmail."

"Fiend," Sophie said with a giggle.

"Learned it from the best Sophie, he's your husband." Calcifer let out a puff of flame and smoke and chuckled. "He is good at what he does though, I give him that."

"A compliment coming from you Calcifer? We certainly don't get those often," Howl said as he went over to the book he had been looking at and began reading it again. "It can't be helped I guess, sometimes you must flatter the wizard."

"That wasn't flattery. I meant it as an insult, that he's good at what he does before now and nothing else. He botches up everything…ah never mind, just ignore me like always," Calcifer said through puffs of smoke. Howl did just that, reading over and over again that one page of his book, making his way to the couch (without bumping into anything which was amazing) and sitting down so he could read better on the couch. Sophie sighed and hobbled to the kitchen for a glass of water. All that sugar had made her thirst. Markl began packing away the sweets and put them into a cupboard for later. Sophie had to drink two glasses before she believed her thirst had subsided and sighed as she sat the glass down on the counter.

Taking a hand and placing it on her stomach she smiled. "This is your family. They're odd and mean at times. They fight and argue and I fight and argue back, but they're family and loveable, never mind their entire wild faults." She felt the child (or children) push up against her hand and she took that to mean they understood. She did have the greatest family here, the greatest life. For being the oldest this was thing she had the most of, the one thing she wanted the most of.

Howl busied himself the next few days trying to learn the spell, although for a majority of those days he was really searching for all the ingredients in abundant proportions, some to practice with and actually do the spell with and then more should the need arise he would have to do it again.

"Ah hell that won't do!" he exclaimed one morning. "Why in the world did I pick these things? I can't use them in any spell much less this one! They aren't ready!"

"Watch your language Howl Jenkins!" Sophie exclaimed, using his least favorite last name. With how Howl was they went by two last names, his favorites, Jenkins and Pendragon. Jenkins was usually pushed to the side as Pendragon was always and would always be the preferred last name Howl wanted them to truly be under. However, when Sophie was mad, really mad or just extremely tired, moody or upset she would call Howl's name with Jenkins…just to show him how made she was. "If you don't watch your language then I won't let you design a room for the baby at all!"

"Then what will the baby do when it is born?" Howl had asked, shrinking beneath Sophie's piercing gaze.

"Sleep in our bed," she replied easily.

"Between us?" he asked worriedly.

"You'll be sleeping on the couch," she said, narrowing her eyes and that was the end of that. Howl promised he wouldn't swear until she was past the pregnancy, he certainly didn't want to sleep on the couch, which could get uncomfortable after a while even though it was extremely soft. He had held true to his word…so far. The though of sleeping on the couch, coupled with the fact Sophie had used Jenkins instead of Pendragon made him very afraid. Eight months pregnant Sophie frightened him now. She had energy still, coming out of nowhere and the house always sparked clean. All his potions and stuff kept getting rearranged and he finally decided to put labels on his things because she kept moving things around. He dealt with tropical green hair for a day and then sparkly blue before finally arriving back at the black he so longed to have as his color of hair once more. He didn't know how Sophie still had the ability to climb up and down stairs either. He figured after a while that was just that and didn't bring up the issue of sleeping in the downstairs room Sophie used to occupy before they married because she growled at him last time he brought it up.

Calcifer still listed off names, some more ridiculous than others and yet Sophie still listened, filing each away for later. She truly didn't believe that she would have any idea until the children were born and she exclaimed the names then.

Markl usually did the errands nowadays because as energetic as Sophie was, Howl didn't want her outside much with the beating sun upon her that could make her faint. Markl would take Hein with him for a walk and fetch Sophie whatever she needed, even though Howl would always suggest outrageous things as well (but he normally never got those for him).

"Sophie, have you thought of any names yet?" Calcifer asked Sophie one morning.

"I haven't really had the time or the thought. You've had so many already I'm sure anything I come up with would just be hopeless."

"Why?" Calcifer pressed.

"I don't know. I probably won't really know until it or they are born. That's just how it is sometimes," she said with a thoughtful look on her face as she sat down by the fire. "I probably seem really weird to you, don't I?"

"Nah, Howl's still weirder. And more vain. And more selfish. In fact, I think, no, I know that you're the best thing that's ever happened to him." Calcifer let out a puff of smoke.

"You've said that before," Sophie said with a laugh.

Calcifer smiled. "I know, but it's true. You know how he was when you first met him. Now he's loosened up a little and with his heart back and all I think he's learning how to care and how to be…how should I put it? Human?"

"I guess," Sophie said. "It's a little scary to think of how far we've come in such a short amount of time."

"I wouldn't trade it. If I could go back in time and change it I wouldn't. Not anymore. Sure, it used to be bad, but it isn't really anymore. It's actually quite nice, you know?" Calcifer asked and continued to smile. "This is a good day, isn't it?"

"I think this is a good year," Sophie corrected. "I don't know what else is in store, or the gender of the children or even how many, one or more, but I look forward to it."

"Ah, the wonderful anticipation," Calcifer said. "Sophie, are you nervous or excited?"
"Both and I'm worried too. The birth better go well," she said. "But we have a midwife, Howl found her and he is good at tracking down some good women once in a while you know. She said she'd help in any way she could. She won't even tie me down or force me to do anything unless it's absolutely necessary. I'm glad the old practices of childbirth are starting to die out."

"Actually, I think I know of only one place where the tradition of tying down women hasn't died out yet. It isn't healthy for the mother or the child to do that." Calcifer sighed. "I've seen a lot in my lifetime."

"I'll bet you have," Sophie replied. "I think I have too. Calcifer, when the child or children are old enough, I want to see more of the world, more of what's beyond those doors, you know?"

"I thought you of all people wouldn't have that much of a sense of adventure." Calcifer looked a little surprised.

"I don't, it's just; I guess I'm still curious about things. Books can't tell me everything the way they can tell Howl and I've always heard that experience is the best teacher," Sophie replied.

"Even if it isn't the kindest one?" Calcifer asked, finished a thought that had been running through his own mind at the time.

"What doesn't kill me makes me stronger, right?" Sophie asked with a smile.

"Curiosity killed the cat," Calcifer said.

"Um…let's see…" Sophie thought hard for a moment, trying to think of a saying that would beat the one Calcifer had just listed off. "Um…If at first you don't…no, that won't work…Love beats all, wait, that's not really a saying…"

"I win that round," Calcifer said and puffed out more smoke.

"I can see that," Sophie said and then looked around the room. "Wait, I thought Howl was here earlier…"

"He's off after another ingredient I think," Calcifer said. "Don't worry, he'll be fine. The worst that could happen is he'll come back with slap marks on his cheek."

"He shouldn't be doing that he's married!" Sophie said. "His wedding band should tell that story…"

"That's why he'd get slapped if he hit on a girl," Calcifer said dryly.

"He wouldn't do that unless he wants to sleep on a couch," Sophie said.

"Oy, right, you did threaten that for any number of things, didn't you?" Calcifer asked with a grin and looked towards the door. "No, I don't think he'll do anything like that. He may be an idiot at times but he's still a good man."

"I know," Sophie said with a giggle. "That's why I married him."

"You married him out of love, whether he was a good man or not," Calcifer said.

"I love him because he's a good man, kind, gentle and handsome…smart too," she said as an afterthought. Calcifer began to laugh and Sophie noticed he was low on wood and added a stick to him.

"You add the word 'smart' after a pause, that's funny," Calcifer said.

"I didn't mean it as an insult!" she exclaimed and Calcifer began to laugh. "I'm serious demon!"

"Oh, you didn't even call me by my name, now I'm shaking!" he said and continued to laugh. Sophie glared at him and then started to make her way out side.

"I don't have to take any of this," she muttered and opened the door to the flower fields and shut it behind her as she left.

"What…What did I say?"

By the time Howl began practicing his spells Sophie was officially nine months pregnant on the day her ninth month began. On the side he was designing the baby's room but other than that he was practicing how the spell would work properly (along with a few jobs that the king was paying him to do of course…one had to make a living!).

"I don't like it Sophie, he's working so hard on it," Markl said as they ate breakfast one morning. Sophie looked over to see Howl on the table, mixing things together once more.

"He's working so hard to get it right, how can you not like it?" Sophie asked, setting her plate down just outside of Calcifer's reach, Calcifer looking very disappointed. "Yes, you're not getting a bite of it. I'm eating for more than one you know."

Calcifer pouted. "Yeah, whatever. I can just imagine getting all the tasty leftovers from your kids though…" He licked his lips.

Sophie laughed at him. "All you'll most likely get from them is vegetables."

"More than what you've been giving me of late!" Calcifer exclaimed, trying to hide his disgusted look. Sophie never thought he could even really taste but if vegetables made him recoil in horror than it was very possible that he could. "I've gotten nothing from you!"

"Little to nothing," Sophie agreed and picked up her plate to begin eating again. "You know what though? It's almost over though…this pregnancy."

"Is that a bad thing love?" Howl's voice came through to Calcifer and Sophie near the fireplace. "Aren't you glad that it's almost over?"

"I don't know," Sophie said. "All of this…I don't know. When it's all over it may leave me feeling a little empty. Overprotective too. I can protect them when they're inside me to the fullest extent, but once born, I don't know. I only can hope I'll be able to protect them as well as before."

"You won't feel empty because they're be there for you to hold and love Sophie," Howl said and approached her, kneeling down beside her and putting his hands on her knee, looking up at her with his bright eyes.

"You wouldn't know," she said. "Unless you get pregnant you wouldn't really know. I know how I feel and that's that." Calcifer looked at her, then looked at Howl, then sighed and looked away because he had seen more than enough sappy romance to last him the rest of the week, not that it was sappy really, just…it still creeped him out to see Howl so deeply in love. Not that he minded much. The more in the house (of people who didn't creep him out like the witch) the happier he was, because the more he would have to talk to.

"All right Sophie, I won't argue with that," Howl said, rising and placing a kiss on her forehead. "I get it; it's a woman thing I guess. I know I can't wait until I'll be able to hold my son or daughter in my hands."

"I bet," Sophie replied with a smile. She watched Howl return to the table, working on the spell once more. Smoke rose up from the table and Sophie's eyes widened.

"Nothing to worry about," Howl said over the smoke and sparkles. "I have it all under control." A little of the smoke flowed over the room towards Sophie and Calcifer, who began coughing from the thickness of it. "I have it under CONTROL!" The smoke thinned and disappeared, but Sophie kept coughing. Howl ran and grabbed a glass of water before running to Sophie and handing it to her, which she took and chugged down without a second thought. He helped her stand and she set down the glass next to her half full plate.

"I don't feel so good," Sophie said and lurched forward towards Calcifer, who leaned back so he didn't burn her. Howl caught her and they fell to the ground, Howl struggling to keep Sophie from hitting her head, but he managed. He held her gently in his arms and she looked up at him, tear stained eyes and soot covered cheeks. "Love, I think it's time…"

"Time for what?" Howl's worried voice was soft, soft and full of concern for her. He didn't know what was going on. What was it time for? Her eyes went wide for a moment as though she were in pain.
"Howl, I think my water broke, the baby's coming!" she exclaimed.

TBC