AAN: time for a marriage and a birth, but will Holly raise the Lycan or will the Lycans mother?

Rituals and Births

Holly woke early hearing their guest cry out, it was before dawn and she knew Genki was sound asleep. Rising she made her way to Ashlee's room. She found the girl in tears, unable to rest due to her nightmares. Holly walked over to her with a sigh; she knew this would not be easy. Sitting down and pulled the girl into her arms. Ashlee welcomed the embrace without question, needing to be held for a while.

"It's alright, just let it out." Holly whispered to her, she found it interesting that the girl didn't think anything of that fact that Holly was in her human form now. The girl seemed to have adjusted to the Garou fairly quickly. * Probably because they were kind to her when her village wasn't. What is wrong with those villagers! * Even though she didn't have many friends in her village there were some who cared, they would have never abandoned her. Holly continued to comfort the poor girl knowing it would be a while before her nightmares stopped. Once Ashlee had calmed down enough to talk Holly smiled to her,

"You alright now?"

"Yeah… thank you…"

"Your welcome. Do you want to talk about it?" Ashlee eyed her a moment before speaking.

"I was having a nightmare… about my rape… the Lycans hurt me the most… probably because I was older. They said something about my being a strong breeder… I didn't realize what they had in mind till they started raping me. I can still feel their touch." she shivered in discomfort, Holly pulled her close again comforting her.

"I know it's horrible. I was raped and beaten once myself."

"You were?"

"Yes… it will take awhile to heal from this but you will in time." the girl nodded then asked,

"Did he force a child on you?"

"He did… but he killed it. He put a knife through my womb…. I can no longer bare children." the girl seemed shocked, she stayed silent. "Its alright. I came to terms with that. Genki has helped me immensely with that actually."

"You trust him?"

"Yes, he would never hurt anyone like that." Holly continued to hold her then after awhile she decided to state something the girl would need to know. "In time, when you are ready, you should find a guy you can trust too. If you can do that then you will heal much faster."

"I'm not sure I can…"

"You will in time. As you heal it'll become easier. After all it was a Lycan who hurt you, not a human or Garou."

"That's true…" after holding her a little longer Holly pulled back to give her some space and see if she would be alright now. She brushed the hair out of the girl's eyes then smiled to her.

"You look tired, why don't you try to get some rest. If you need me just call all right?" the girl nodded and lay back down. Holly quietly made her way back to bed, she found Genki still resting. He noticed her leave but didn't find it important enough to wake up fully. Holly snuggled into bed with him and went back to sleep.

When morning came Holly found herself in Genki's arms again. He was already awake but hadn't bothered waking her up. She smiled to him then moved to kiss him gently. After they parted Genki was the first to speak.

"So what was the commotion about early this morning."

"Ashlee was having a nightmare… reliving her rape…." Genki nuzzled his mate knowing she felt for the girl.

"I'm sure it'll take time for her to heal…"

"Yeah it will. It would have helped if the villagers had been nice to her in her own village though."

"Yes… but we can do nothing about that now."

"That's true…." she looked into his eyes, "all we can do is support her and try to help her through it now…"

"Holly she can remain here as long as she wants, you know I want to help as well." Holly smiled and nuzzled into him.

"Yes I know… I just sometimes forget how supportive you are and how easily you understand my feelings." he just chuckled. "We should get breakfast going. After that we can spend some time in prayer." He raised a brow but then smiled.

"Sounds like a good plan. I would enjoy praying along side you before work." Holly gave him a gentle kiss and rose to change. Genki gave her the privacy she needed and changed in the bathroom.

After breakfast the pair went off to pray, Granity accompanied them unsure of what to make of their version of praying but wanting to learn. After they finished Genki headed off to work while Holly went to check on Ashlee and talk with Granity. Autumn Harvest dropped by with another dose of medicine; though reluctant the girl accepted it. Autumn noticed how the girl was reacting and knew she would not what to mother the child but she also knew Holly would step in if needed. Right now Autumn would focus on saving the pair rather then whether the mother wanted the child or not. Autumn calculated that she was about three weeks pregnant now, which meant she had a little over a month to go before the birth. Holly had found it surprising when she heard of this until Autumn had explained things to her. * I never realized werewolves were born faster then normal children or that a Lycan could force a human to give birth in the same amount of time. * Holly subconsciously touched her barren womb as she thought about the upcoming birth. She felt a pang of longing and desire in her heart that had yet to be fulfilled but she soon pushed those feeling away. She began to focus on other things; tonight was her night to lead the hunt. She knew she was improving but still needed to work on her skills. She blushed realizing Genki would be speaking to the villages about their upcoming marriage today before he returned home. She knew that he planned to let her have a normal human marriage and a wolf marriage. He told her knowing both was for the best and Holly had agreed with him. After all she planned to teach Marie the human way but Rain Paws the wolf. She understood because of the children she had adopted that Genki wanted her to be prepared. She sighed and walked to the den wanting to speak with Bear Fur about learning some fighting techniques. She was sure he would oblige her and help her learn.

When Genki walked out of the meeting in the small village hall he found Holly training with Bear Fur. Larry found it interesting and asked for clarification on a few things. Genki answered his questions as his eyes gazed over his pack. He noticed that Rain Paws was playing with the other pups and Marie had joined them along with the village children. Some of the young baby sitters were near by watching over them. He saw Autumn Harvest sat with Ashlee letting the girl rest against her as she napped. He had been told this would be a trying and tiring time for the girl, he knew that was correct by how she was acting lately. With a sigh Genki proceeded to follow Larry back to the shop, he still had work to do and he knew he could speak to Holly later during the hunts preparations.

As the weeks pass Holly noticed a significant change in Ashlee, not just the fact that she had a baby bulge but she was irritable and seemed to tire out easily. Her body was still rejecting the child so she had to stay on the medicine but Autumn assured both the girl and Holly that the medicine would keep both the baby and Ashlee alive. Ashlee seemed less enthused then Holly but then she seemed to hate her unborn child. Holly understood her feelings but knew hate wasn't something the girl should have in her heart. Holly approached her later that night hoping to convince her to let go of the hate in her heart.

"Ashlee how are you feeling?"

"Fine… just a little tired." the girl could tell Holly had something on her mind.

"Ashlee… do you hate your child?" the teen stared at her unsure of how to answer at first.

"Yeah a bit…" her eyes showed mixed feelings about the subject.

"I know you still feel pain from what they did to you, and you don't want his child because of how it was created, but that isn't a reason to harbor hate in your heart." she paused a moment before continuing. "Moo fed on hatred and loved it when people held onto hate within their hearts. The others and I figured that out, and we also learned that hate can't co-exist with love and understanding." she waited again, this time placing her hand on the teens shoulder, "I know its hard and you don't like what's happening but let go of the hate. Even if you decide not to keep the child and raise it you shouldn't hate it. This child hasn't really hurt you; remember you body has tried to kill it and its just trying to live, just like you." she let Ashlee think about it knowing this was a hard decision for the girl. She seemed upset now but had let Holly finish, not interrupting her in anyway. It was surprising to hear about Moo, she hadn't heard anything about him in so long not since she was young and got told stories about him. She could hardly believe that Holly was one of the courageous seven but in a way it made sense to the girl. Holly seemed very different even with out being a Garou. Learning what gave Moo power was even more startling but she wasn't sure she could love the child. But then Holly had only asked her to let go of the hate not to love the child. It was true this child hadn't tried to hurt her and her body was trying to kill it.

"I will try."

"That's all I ask." Ashlee nodded and gave Holly a weary smile. She was exhausted from her day even though she hadn't done much. She would be glad when she finally gave birth so she could get her health back. Even though she knew the child would need her milk for a little while she doubted she would want to keep the child. Holly thought differently though, she figured the girl would bond with her child in time and she would get over the negative feelings towards it. Holly embraced the girl then smiled to her, "get some rest." the girl nodded and left to do so. Genki noticed immediately that holly was slightly upset when she lay down next to him that night. He knew the reason but couldn't think of anything to say that would put her at ease. Instead he just held her close and nuzzled her whispering some simple words of encouragement, "it'll be alright Holly." Holly nodded but the tears still fell, a tribute to how upset she was. Genki continued to hold her and nuzzle her hoping whatever she was feeling would pass. He knew that unless Ashlee accepted the child or Holly adopted it, Holly would remain upset with how things were going.

A week later Genki took a couple of days off work, he knew Holly wouldn't want him working when they were to be married. Genki set up a semi traditional marriage for the village though he changed a few things; he allowed the hand fasting to remain for everyone's comfort. He took Holly aside an explained that that was not how a Christian wedding was normally held. With Holly's encouragement he later edit that out as well making it an entirely Christian wedding as Holly wanted it. Once all set and Holly knew what to do they had Star Thunder marry them while he was in his human form. Once that was done the couple went out into the field near the den, shifting they began their wedding ritual. The pack and raptors attended this one along with a few monsters and humans who were curious. Genki and Holly preformed a complex dance together; then rubbed noses after inhaling each other's scent. They then gave each other a piercing in their ear. The earring Genki had chosen for Holly was a traditional style bone earring but it had scrollwork and gold tips with a blue jewel embedded on each end. Holly had chosen a similar style but his held a red jewel instead. The final step before their union song was the blood bind. Several of the monsters and humans alike cringed as Genki sliced his paw a crossed its larger pad, Holly doing the same. They then held hands letting their blood mingled as Bear Fur tied their hands together. They sang their joy for all the wolves in the area to hear and Tiger could tell they greatly enjoyed their union. Once this was done the couple invited the group to a feast in honor of their binding. The tether on their hands removed they washed the blood away and joined the feast. Neither seemed bothered by the wound they had just inflicted on themselves but then Garou could ignore pain to some degree.

The couple slipped off together later that night needing toe be alone. Genki showed great affection to his bound mate and she enjoyed everything he did. Genki didn't try to do a mating dance with her though, which made Holly wonder what was wrong. Genki noticed her mood change.

"What's wrong love?"

"Why haven't you tried to mate me?" Holly's voice was unreadable.

"Do you want me to? I don't want to cause you pain, you know that." his voice gentle and sincere. Holly now remembered what she had told him before. That just having sex would be painful for her. * He wasn't going to ask because he didn't want to put me in pain? *

"So you weren't going to ask to consummate our marriage?" Genki sighed,

"Not until I was sure you would be out of pain." he nuzzled her, "you know I put your well being over any rules."

"I know but still…."

"Its only a tradition, what matters is in our hearts Holly." He shifted so he could see her face now. He could tell his words meant a lot to her, he smiled to her then leaned in to let their lips meet. Holly eagerly accepted the kiss wanting to bond with him. The couple made out for several minutes before they parted for air. Genki saw a new and intriguing look in Holly's eyes. Holly rose and started her part of the rutting dance, Genki stood their gawking a moment before he smiled in understanding and began to perform his part. Genki made sure to watch her closely to be sure she really understood what she was doing but part of his mind scolded him for thinking she was ignorant. Finally Genki came up behind her mounting her, Holly held her ground letting him do so. "Holly are you sure you want this. I don't want to hurt you…"

"I know Genki. I want this, and I think we both need it. This is a bond we can't get with out rutting and you know it." he sighed, he knew she was right even though he still worried about this act hurting her.

"Alright… but if the pain becomes too much then tell me." Holly nodded,

"I will, don't worry so much." he smiled at her comment then sighed again. He could feel her brace herself beneath him. He carefully moved into position his body already knowing what was to happen. He nuzzled her and nipped her ear in affection making her whimper her affection in return. With one last positioning he moved his large canine member inside of her. In this for he wouldn't have to worry about the awkward angle but he knew she would still feel some pain. Holly closed her eyes and he slowly moved inside her. Once fully seated he waited a moment before moving again. He wanted her body to adjust to him to prevent any extra pain on her end. He slowly began to thrust knowing if he was too rough he might injure her. Holly whimpered slightly as he sped up but soon she was panting and moaning. Once he noticed she seemed to be feeling some pleasure he began to relax and let things happen naturally. He paid close attention to what gave her the most pleasure and of course anything that caused pain. He knew Holly wouldn't let him off the hook unless he enjoyed himself as well, and he couldn't say he didn't want her. So he would be more then willing to have another go at this once he was sure she had recovered and would be alright. He knew they would be closer then ever after this though and he would always feel their strong bond whether he was with her physically or not.

Over the next few weeks the couple explored what they could and could not do together. Holly continued to chastise Genki for his caution when it came to sex but soon gave up after she realized he would not give in when it came to her safety and comfort. One night the couple was awaked by what sounded like a yelp. The pair ventured to Ashlee's room finding her groaning in pain.

"My water broke…."

"Its alright. I'll get Autumn Harvest." Genki left to do so as Holly comforted the girl.

"Just relax." the girl nodded as Holly brushed her bangs out of her eyes. "About how far apart are the contractions?" Holly asked with a gentle voice.

"Around ten minutes…."

"Alright. I'm going to get some things ready. I would say your child should be born within the next couple of hours. Its different for every woman." Holly knew this well as she had helped deliver a few babies in the village. Holly got some extra towels and filled the basin with warm water. Autumn Harvest came in and just smiled to the girl. She checked the girl's vitals making sure he body wasn't going to throw a fit when the pregnancy was just about done. Ashlee was fine though, she still didn't want the child but she was glad she would feel better after the child was born. After and hour and a half her contractions increased in frequency and Genki left the room. Ashlee was now ready to give birth and he understood she wouldn't want him there. Holly encouraged the girl as she bore down, eager to be rid of the child within her.

Though stressful for the girl she made it through without much trouble. Holly let Genki know and he held Holly a moment before she returned to the girl's side. Autumn tended to the baby as Holly gentle cleansed the sore and exhausted teen. Genki wondered in after he was certain the girl would no longer protest and smiled seeing Holly tending to her as if she was their daughter. He could tell Holly felt proud of the girl but he also saw something that worried him in her eyes. * She's in pain… emotionally I'm sure this is stressful for her even if she is hiding it. She wants a child so bad… Lord what else must she go through before you reveal your plan for her? How long must she be in pain? * He knew odds were against his getting an answer anytime soon but he made a decision to pray about it later before he rested again. For now he helped Autumn Harvest, once the child was cleaned up he brought the young Lycan pup over holding him close so he felt safe. Ashlee looked over at him, mixed emotions in her eyes.

"Do you want to see him?" Genki's voice was soft and gentle, he saw the girl think about the question a moment. She then sighed and nodded, Holly seemed encouraged by the girl's response. Genki walked to Ashlee's side and leaned down to hand her the child she had bore. Ashlee took him gently making sure not to hurt him, Genki saw mixed emotions in her eyes again as she gazed at the infant. Part of her still hated how he was created but it was obvious to Genki she didn't entirely hate the child now.

"Is he normal? I mean I know nothing about Lycans…"

"He's a normal healthy male. Nothing odd about him other then his color, but that may darken in time." it was true he was more of a dark tan then the normal brown or black skinned Lycan. "His eyes will be blue until he gets a bit older. They will change then to their final color." Genki knew the girl had hazel eyes and Lycans usually had yellow or green surrounded by dark brown or black. So he wondered how much of her would show through. "He won't get his human form for some time yet. But he will need you for the next couple of months."

"Yes, I remember Autumn telling me that." the girls voice was unreadable and so was her expression. Genki touched Holly's shoulder getting her attention.

"I'm sure you must be tired and probably hungry." he saw the teen glance his way now. "We'll get you something to eat then let you rest. I will have his crib finished tomorrow, for now is it alright if he sleeps next to you?"

"Yeah that's fine." he nodded and got Holly to follow him out of the room. Holly prepared her a light snack and Genki made up some tea with herbs to help the girl regain her strength and prevent any ill after effects. Once the girl had her food and drink, the pair left her alone to rest. Holly pulled Genki aside to speak with him before he could head off to pray.

"Why are you doing this… she could…"

"You know she won't kill the child besides, I deliberately didn't finish the crib on time. I wanted her to have him next to her and bond with him." he saw Holly's expression change to concern. "Don't worry…" he held her a moment then smiled. "I'm going to go pray, do you want to join me?" Holly studied him a moment then nodded, he led her out to the alter and the pair began to pray. But each prayed separately this time, Genki prayed for Holly wanting the pain she felt to be relieved and Holly prayed for Ashlee.

When the couple returned to their room Holly broke down in tears. Genki pulled her into an embrace letting her cry it out, he knew she needed this more then she would admit. After her tears slowed again Genki moved to kiss her forehead softly.

"Its alright Holly… things will work out for the best."

"I know…" it took her a few more minutes to gather her thoughts enough to speak again. "Genki… it hurts…" her hand moved to her womb. But Genki knew it was her heart that was really hurting.

"Holly… be patient. I know you're in pain, and I wish I could relieve that pain for you. Please let it go, trust that the Father will keep his promise and you will have a child in time. The Father does things in his won time, and we don't always get to pick when it happens or how fast. Sometimes there are things we have to go through in order to be better prepared for what's ahead, and we don't know why. But there is always a good reason. Remember Sarah are barren and was able to have a child but only after it became a testament to everyone who's power had made it so." Holly nodded as a couple of tears slipped from her eyes.

"I know… I just… I'm tired of this pain…"

"I know, I know… please just hold out a little longer. I will help you in everyway I can but please don't lose faith." she nodded,

"I won't lose faith Genki…" he smiled and kissed her, his hands roaming over her body to bring her pleasure and let her enjoy his touch. He didn't need to rut with her right now, he just wanted to make her felt good after everything that had happened. After he was sure she was all right and she had enough pleasure the pair slept. Genki it out one final pray as he began to drift off. * Father… what are we missing? I know before Holly had a knowing that the time for her womb to become fertile was near. Was that just her thinking she knew it or are we truly missing something that we need to do first? * With that he let sleep consume him.

AAN: yep a bit shorter then most chapters. This one honestly gave me a lot of trouble and I have been busy with a few things as well. Hope you enjoyed it. I can see this ending in around 4 or 5 chapters so not much left here.