AAN: will Holly get her womb fixed? Will Genki understand how to help the dinos through the winter? Lets find out.

Divine Night

Genki woke with a start, he knew what he must do but was Holly ready? He hoped she was, * after all she is the one who wants this so much… I would hope she is ready for what is to come. * It had been months since she started her treatment and she had not become pregnant. Though she had tried every method known here by wolf and human doctors nothing worked. Genki had quelled some disagreements among the pack over the alpha females condition and her placement within the pack. Holly knew little of these and Genki planned to keep I that way. He would wait till she woke to tell her what he had discovered, it was the middle of the night and he knew she was exhausted. When the sun finally rose Holly was the first to wake. She stretched lightly with a small yawn; her eyes still burning slightly with unshed tears. She was trying to be strong; she didn't want to burden Genki with her tears every night even if she still felt so much pain. She stayed silent awhile just thinking about a few things. * I wish I knew why things must happen this way… I know there has to be a good reason but….it hurts so much. * Holly felt tears slipping from her eyes again, even though she tried not to cry she couldn't help it. Genki woke finding her in tears again; he pulled her close just holding her till the pain passed.

"I'm sorry…"

"Holly there is no need for you to be sorry. I know this is very painful for you."

"Thank you… I couldn't ask for a better husband…" he smiled, leaning in to give her a soft kiss.

"I'm glad I can help." he held her for a few more minutes then smiled again, "Holly I had another dream… I know what to do now."

"What do you mean?" she gave him an unsure glance.

"I know what we are to do. Now that it has been proven then medicine cannot heal you… the Father will heal you. He wanted them to see what he can do."

"Because they still don't believe?"

"Yes… this may be the last display of his power to them. If they will not believe after this then he may turn his back to them for now until he sees they are willing to accept his ways… or he may punish them… I'm not certain what he will do."

"I understand, what must we do?"

"First we need to pray and fast for seven days, on the seventh day we need to hold another feast in his honor, you and I must make an offering. The villagers need to be there." she nodded understanding, "once that is done we will spend time alone in prayer before uniting again." Holly nodded; she had never done anything like this but knew Genki wouldn't make such things up.

"I will do as you say we should. I believe you. Can you explain what I should do with prayer and fasting? I don't understand entirely…" he smiled and set about doing so, knowing this would be hard on them both. Garou tended to eat a lot but then this was important so he figured they could get through it.

The pair made breakfast for the others but decided to start their fast so they went to pray instead of eating with the others. Genki explained things to the pack that was in full support. Autumn Harvest agreed that they should still spend time with the pack even if they didn't lead the hunts. Genki noticed the villagers whispering once again about their decision to fast and pray. They always seemed to be whispering about something concerning the wolves' faith. Genki ignored them and went to work as always. Larry asked some questions but restrained himself seeing as Genki would inform him of there was something major going on. He had learned that Genki would let him know about anything important that was to happen. And by the end of the week Genki would indeed fill him in to the best of his ability. For now he let it be; concentrating on the task at hand. The raptors and Suchomimus could not understand the concept of fasting and praying, elder Bear Fur attempted to explain but the predators had little knowledge of any deity. Genki left it up to the elders to explain to them, he had no way of explaining it any better then they were.

Mid way through the week he came home to find the monsters upset with him again. After a long day at work and being checked over by Harvey who insisted they should not fast for a week he wasn't much in the mood to deal with them as well. Holly had apparently gone to the den to escape their gaze and complaints. As he washed up they began to complain at him,

"Genki tell Holly to eat. This is too dangerous." Suezo stated, "fasting this long could hurt her."

"Suezo, she is fine. We are both fasting you know, not just her. This is something we need to do together. There is no danger here, she will be fine."

"What are you nuts…"

"Why are you fasting?" Granity cut the eyeball off making him glare at her. Genki turned to face them now drying his hands.

"I had a vision. This is what I saw us doing, and I am being obedient. Holly wishes to have a child, the Father has answered with what he needs us to do first. He will heal her, but only after we obey."

"So you had a vision again?" Tiger asked he had already been exploring their religion with his brother, just as Granity had.

"Yes."

"Why all the trouble?" Hare asked, intrigued by this new development.

"Anyone can play the good follower and obey for a time to get something. But to prove our devotion we must do some difficult things before he will give us our hearts desire." Hare nodded, it made sense to him. "She will be fine, just relax. You know I wouldn't put her in any danger; I love her too much for that. Her magic was more dangerous then this." he had a point and they all knew it. After that he took off towards the den to round up his family. Seeing Holly relaxing in the sun made him smile. She seemed to take things easy when she was with the pack, not letting normal worries over stress her. He was glad for the change and knew it was a big help. He sat down next to her knowing she would notice him. She glanced over curiously but said nothing, within moments she moved to lean against him and enjoy being with her husband again for a bit.

By the end of the week the villagers knew of the feast that would be held and of the pairs diligence in faith. Though at their wits end with the monsters the pair still managed a civil conversation with the villagers who asked questions. The pack readied the feast as the pair went off alone to pray. Genki went about his normal work, and Holly took care of the children and Ashlee. She had been curious but she was less of a hassle then the monsters. By the time he got home he found Holly waiting for him, she was nervous and he knew why. He pulled her close and held her for a bit.

"It'll be fine Holly. Don't worry." She nodded,

"I'm trying. I'm just very nervous about the out come of this. What if the villagers still don't believe?"

"I don't know, but what I do know is that they can come to believe with out these miracles. But the must see the light within our hearts." she nodded, the pair moved off to get ready. Soon they walked out to where the pack had the feast ready, even the dinosaurs joined them after they had the young Bajul help get a larger prize on the hunt. Buaya seems mystified by this act but wanted to see what was to happen. So she was more then happy to have her mate hunt for the dinosaurs that would attend. Genki guided Holly out to where they would sit, once the group was gathered he rose and beckoned her to her feet. Bear Fur and Star Thunder offered a sacrifice to start things off. It was consumed within moments and only then did the group pray and eat of the feast. The dinosaurs seemed mystified as to what had eaten the offered meat. They decided to stay and watch the proceedings though they would stay a good distance from the altar. After the group had their fill, Genki nudged his mate. She nodded and rose gracefully to her feet, Genki walked with her to the altar where they met Bear Fur, Star Thunder, and Autumn Harvest. Genki put his arm around Holly knowing she was nervous about this, knowing the villagers would not see anything more beyond this was unsettling. The pair took a large chuck of meat and offered it. After anointing it with oil they both knelt and prayed.

"Father you told us to try through medicine and we did." Genki stated,

"Now we come before you after fasting as instructed. Please reveal your power and keep the promise you have made to us." Holly was equally as strong with her prayer, all fear gone for now.

"Let this be a testament to your love and your power."

"In Jesus name, amen." they finished in unison. Flames shot down from the sky again to consume the offering. This time though the flames that shot out around them formed a small fire cyclone. ' You have done well. I shall keep my promise and show all those who watch my power and love for my children.' with that simple statement the tornado was gone and the couple stood unharmed. Holly felt a fire within her and knew the promise was kept. The pair walked back over to their spot and conversed with the others awhile. Dr Harvey and Athena just had to examine them but where again mystified that the pair had no damage done to them. The Dinosaurs on the other hand now believe the wolves about this deity. They would be more then happy to worship Him, as they feared his wrath. Bear Fur spoke with them in private and let them accept the Father on their own. The villagers whispered once again but Genki let them be for now, he just answered the questions that came his way.

After the feast the pair went off by themselves, this night they would stay in wolf form and enjoy the night air. Holly smiled to the lover knowing he was as excited as she was.

"Holly, are you ready?"

"Yes." His gentle smile made her realize how proud he was of her. Soon he was kissing her, his loving flowing into her slowly. Each knowing that this night would be different for them. Holly knew she would have a child to take care of soon and Genki knew he'd be a father soon. He seemed to be a natural already so Holly wasn't worried at all. The couple united once more, enjoying each other and feeling each other's love. Genki knew this night would stay in his memory forever, though he was sure his mate felt the same way.

When morning came the pair returned home, they found the monsters waiting for them. They were up early and seemed to have been extremely worried about the pair. Holly gave them all them quizzical look, she wasn't sure what they were up to but she knew they were up to something.

"Holly thank goodness you are back." Suezo hopped over and leaned up against her. Holly instinctually comforted the eyestalk while the others sweated a bit.

"Hare what's up?" Genki looked to his friends,

"Oh nothing really. We just wanted to make sure you were all right. It was odd not having you here last night."

"We had another thing to do. You'll find out what it was soon enough." He glanced over to Granity, "are the villagers gossiping again?"

"Yes, quite a bit actually." He just smiled, and glanced to Holly.

"Lets get some breakfast started," she stated finally separating from Suezo. Making her way to the kitchen she started breakfast, Genki helped a little before going to the living room to play with Marie and Rain Paws. When the food was ready he brought the children along to eat. All the monsters seemed relieved that they were done fasting, though the pair didn't understand why they were so concerned. They let it be though, not wanting any more infighting for now. Genki soon left for work and Holly left for the den as it was her turn to baby sit.

Genki smiled seeing Larry speaking with Harvey and Athena. He knew all of them had questions but he was also certain they would wait till later to ask them. He was right of course; they waited till his work was complete to sit down with him.

"Genki are you sure Holly is alright? She seemed odd earlier today."

"She's fine, why? How'd she seem odd?"

"Well… she seems to think she is with child…" Harvey stated somewhat uncertainly.

"Perhaps she is. The whole reason behind that was to ask for divine help on the matter."

"You know as well as we do that she is barren."

"Let me ask you this then, if she is not and she actually is pregnant will that be enough proof for you? Will it be enough that you finally say the Father is real and so is His power?" they all looked startled by this. Glancing to each other a moment before answering.

"I think it would be enough for me." Larry stated; he seemed very close to a break through all ready. Genki saw the others hesitate a moment then nod,

"It would be enough." Harvey stated, "if this God of yours can truly heal her when nothing else can then it's enough." Athena only nodded in agreement. Genki smiled,

"I am glad you are all in agreement." he could see they were all unsure of his reasons but weren't going to ask anything further, "Harvey I will bring her to your office when we are sure you can tell whether she is pregnant or not. There is no point in doing so before hand." he nodded understanding Genki's point. Genki simply went back to his spot to work some more leaving the three to discuss things.

As the weeks past the couple united a few more times. Genki knew that the first time might not take, so he wanted to be sure. Holly had no reason to protest, besides she loved the attention he gave her while they made love. When Holly woke and found that she had not had her monthly once again she knew she was pregnant. Apart of her had felt it within but now it was confirmed. They would have to wait a few more weeks before Harvey would be able to tell but she knew all their hard work had paid off. She immediately woke Genki, though groggy he could see her excitement.

"Genki, my monthly has not come this month. You were right."

"I'm glad," he smiled and nuzzled her.

"Genki does it matter to you if it's a girl or boy?"

"No, any child would be wonderful. They are all precious." he could see that meant a great deal to her. Holly snuggled with him and drifted back off, she knew he wanted so more rest and would give him that. The news could wait a bit longer.

The monsters could hardly believe what they were being told. Suezo of course had to cause a fuss but after Genki challenged him to wait and see he soon shut up. They both knew the monsters wouldn't fully accept the pregnancy until it was physically visible. The dinosaurs and wolves accepted it easily and were overjoyed for the couple. All the mothers knowing it was a great joy for Holly considering how long she had waited. Holly found Ashlee watching her closely now; the girl seemed to have questions but refrained from asking them. Finally Holly sat down with the girl after her son drifted off to sleep.

"Ashlee I can tell you have questions, you are more then welcome to ask them." Ashlee looked surprised that she had been caught,

"Was it that obvious?"

"Yes, now what's on your mind?"

"Well how do you know for sure you are pregnant? Genki told me before that you were barren… and so did you actually." her voice was quite but filled with longing for understanding.

"I just know it in my heart. Its not something I can easily describe." the girl nodded, she remembered that feeling when she figured out she was pregnant.

"You really think this god of yours healed you?"

"I know he did." Ashlee remained silent a moment then out of the depths of pain and confusion stated simply,

"Do you think he would heal me?" her hand moving to her heart. Holly's gaze softened she wrapped an arm around the poor girl and held her gently.

"I'm sure he would be glad to if you asked him. Would you accept him as your god if he did?"

"Yeah… the mother never did that… no matter how I ask she doesn't help me."

"You want to ask him then?" Ashlee looked uncertain, "no ones forcing you. Its up to you."

"Can I think about it? I don't even know anything about him…"

"Would you like to know more so you can make a decision?"

"Yeah… that would be nice." Holly smiled and retrieved Genki's bible. She then let the girl read it and helped her understand it when needed. She knew it would be awhile before the girl decided but she wanted to be there for her no matter the decision to help her.

Genki found himself in the middle of numerous conversations about the Father and his ways with Tiger, Gray Wolf and, Granity. The three seemed close to finding their answers though Genki never thought they would be working so closely together though this. The three were happy for Holly and believed the couple's word on the pregnancy though the others doubted it. Genki wasn't certain of their reasoning on this but left it alone for right now. His main concern was making sure Holly had everything she needed for the child that was growing within her; her health and strength came first. Holly raced along side Genki as they pair traveled around the perimeter of their main territory close to the village. Harvey had protested that if she was pregnant that she should not be running around like this but Genki had assured her that in Garou form she could do many things a human could not. Garou had to travel in order to hunt and all the pack hunted together until the mother was close to giving birth, only then would she drop back into a lesser role. After meeting with Autumn Harvest, Holly was satisfied with the answers she had and accompanied Genki on his travels to make sure all was well. This type of thing united the pack and made sure all knew they were loved and important in some way. When the pack returned after a few days Holly saw Athena beckoning to them. Genki and Holly glanced at each other then loped over to see what was going on. As they got closer they shifted from all fours to two legs. Harvey walked out to join Athena, he seemed bothered but said nothing for now.

"Come dear, we should be able to tell if what you believe is true now." Athena stated gently attempting not to offend Holly by saying she was a nut or something. Holly smiled and nodded to the pair, following them in side Harvey's office. Holly sat down in the chair offered to her gracefully, her tail finding its way to the side out of the way.

"Will she need to change?" Harvey asked Genki, Holly too looked to him, uncertain if she need to or not.

"I wouldn't think so, the signs are the same for Garou as they are for humans." Harvey nodded then moved to kneel down. Carefully her placed his stethoscope on her belly and listened. Holly waited, she knew her fur was damping the sound a little she just hoped it wasn't too much. After all it would be quite embarrassing if she had to shift back when she had no clothing with her. After a few moments he pulled back and shook his head.

"I'll be, you are indeed pregnant." Athena seemed surprised by this news though the couple was merely happy that they now could tell the villagers this without them scoffing. Harvey checked her belly gently making she nothing appeared to be wrong then nodded. "You seem to be just fine right now. Though I'm not sure about all this running around…"

"Its fine. Garou are built differently then humans. Unless something strikes her belly directly it won't be an issue." Genki stated, his voice confidant yet gentle. Holly just smiled to the pair making Athena wonder if she had already known about all this before. Holly then turned to Genki and asked her question,

"Genki, will I have my child as fast as Ashlee did or will it be as long as a normal human pregnancy?" Athena and Harvey both looked to him now,

"Its hard to tell right now. But we'll know for sure in another month or so. There will be a change in the growth rate of this little one if it's a Garou birth." Genki had found out some information from Star Thunder and Bear Fur as far as birthing went, being a single male before he had no real experience with this. Holly accepted the answer though with a smile and a nod.

"I guess we wait then." Harvey stated, "I still can't believe this…" his voice was soft. Holly rose and placed a gentle hand on his shoulder.

"Relax, seek and you shall find." with those simple words she left leaving Harvey to gaped at her. Genki raised a brow then smiled to the pair and walked after her. Athena had understood the statement as well as Harvey did, though set in her ways she knew that if she sought a true answer she would find one. She took her leave to think some things over.

When the pair entered the house they found Larry waiting for them, he had his notebook with him, indicating he wished to speak with Genki.

"Larry are you here to add more to your notes?"

"Yes, if you wouldn't mind."

"Not at all." Holly walked off to make some tea. She returned with it, setting it before the two men. However, before she could leave Larry spoke up again.

"Holly would you mind staying? Some of my questions are for you as well." she looked surprised but obliged him and took a seat next to Genki.

"What did you want to know?" Genki asked, uncertain of what he had on his mind this time.

"Well first, how were you able to travel like that with out cause of concern about the child she is with?" Genki smiled and proceeded to explain as Holly relaxed to think about a few things herself. After a few minutes though she was snapped form her thoughts by the two men.

"I'm sorry what were you asking?"

"I wanted to know how you knew you were pregnant before any signs were apparent. Also do you feel this is Garou or a human birth?" Larry seemed very interested.

"I just knew I was. I guess it was intuition or something like that. As to the birth… I'm not sure yet… when I get a feeling on it I will let you know though."

"Thank you." he jotted some notes down then proceeded to ask more questions.

By the time he left Holly felt exhausted, she made dinner for the group with her mates help then headed to bed shortly afterward. Slightly worried Genki joined her; he didn't want anything happening unexpectedly. He nuzzled her as he lay down; she smiled tiredly and snuggled into him.

"You alright?"

"Yeah… just very tired from all the questions."

"You can't fool me. What's on your mind?"

"Its Ashlee… even with everything that has happened she still… is so distant from her son. I know she still feels pain but… to ignore him like that."

"Has she met his needs?"

"Well yes…"

"Then there is nothing to worry about. Just let things be for now. I think she will change her mind in time. Let her heal, she needs that more than anything right now."

"She asked me about the father and my pregnancy a few weeks ago."

"And?"

"I answered her questions. She still seems uncertain about trusting the father though."

"Give it time." Holly stared at him a moment then nodded. Slowly she let herself drift off to sleep. Genki smiled and began to think about that to do with the dinosaurs. * Too bad there isn't a hot spring or something nearby… they won't survive if we can't get them a warm place to stay. They need shelter, perhaps its time to start scouting around for a suitable place for them. I'd hate to have to build a building for them. They probably wouldn't appreciate it anyway after being trapped before in one. * He sighed and resolved to think about it more in the morning. Hoping a new day would bring a better perspective.

AAN: sorry for the delay on this… had issues with some writing block. LoZ Wind Waker helped though lol. Anyway hopefully I can get the next one up a bit faster.