Old Promises, New Mysteries: Book 2 of The Kinstone series

I woke up a couple hours later to the sound of the door creaking open and little feet trying to “sneak” their way over to me. I grinned as the feet crept over to me, pawing ever so quietly on the carpet. I reclosed my eyes, feigning that I was still asleep.

Tiny whispers rose through the room, inching closer and closer, becoming more and more distinct. I could feel the gentle warm of two little forms as they rounded my couch, with one shadow being cast over my face, another presence at my feet.

“Shhh,” loudly whispered a child’s voice, “you’ll wake her up.”

I fought back the urge break into a smile, biting hard on the inside of my mouth. When both shadows hovered over my face, I partially opened an eye, thankfully being concealed under my bangs.

Both forms, while hazy, reeled back, I quickly snatched up the little children before me, pulling them onto the couch with me. They both giggled loudly as I started to tickle them.

“Awww, no fair,” complained Micha.

His sister Luna, on the other hand, stared up at me. Her eyes shimmered with childish delight, which only made me laugh as her tail wagged furiously.

“Thought you could sneak up on your big sister eh?” Both kobold pups grinned, tails still wagging happily. I smiled, shaking my head as I patted theirs.

Micha and Luna were the twin children of the master shepherd on the Estate. Pretty much since the first day I arrived on the Estate, these two quickly came to see me as their “big sister”. I happily and gleefully took up the role.

I loved looking after the pups, playing with them, even taking them flying with me. Granted, I was only able to do while in eye-shot of their father and at max, flying at thirty to forty feet off the ground.

When Rachel de-aged me into a five year old last year, the pups were overly thrilled to have someone their age play with them. It was my time with these two that I was able to watch over the kids of the coven members who came to help decorate the Manor when we hosted the winter solstice festival last year.

As to why the twins are in my room, they often love to come visit me whenever they want to, or whenever they want to get away from their family. This stemmed from right after my duel with Irina, when they spent the night with me. Since then they've been coming to see me. Rachel tends to act like their grandmother at times, minorly spoiling them.

I smiled as I hugged them tightly to me, kissing both of their heads, “So what brings my two favorite little pups up to me?”

Luna looked up at me, “We wanted to come see you big sister. We haven’t seen you in a couple of days.”

I smiled, kissing her head, “Sorry about that, been kinda busy.”

She shook her head, “It's okay, we know her Ladyship has been teaching you a lot.”

I smiled, turning to her bother, “Have you been good little pups?”

Micha tilted one of his ears downward, telling me that he was about to lie, “Of course big sister.”

I smirked, looking at him in the eye, “Uh-huh, tell me the truth.”

Now both of his ears flattened, “We got in trouble with papa when we let the baby lambs get loose.”

I sighed, remembering the last round of births the flock had just had. “And why did you let them go?” raising an eyebrow.

The young pup lowered his head, “We thought they wanted to go out and play. But when we did, they just ran. Mama and papa ran after them to catch them up again.”

I nodded, “I see, and you know what you did was wrong?” The pup nodded.

I smiled, hugging them close, “Good. Now I’m not going to say anything that your parents haven’t already, so no lecture from me. Lord knows I messed up as well.”

Both twins looked up at me, eyes flashing with questions. “You did bad big sister?” asked Luna.

I nodded, “Yep…and got punished for it.”

Micha’s mouth stood agate, “But…but big sister never does bad.”

I smirked, “Even your big sister can make mistakes. But what should we do when we make them?”

Both twins looked up at me, “Learn not to repeat them.”

“Correct answer.”

I turned to see Rachel walking into my room, smiling. A small smile rose on my face, “Hey.”

She leaned against the door frame, “I am glad to see that you enjoyed your nap my darling,” now grinning, “only to be woken by the children.”

I smirked, “Well…it was nice while it lasted,” winking to the pups.

Rachel softly walked over to me, turning and leaning onto the back of the couch. The twins happily wagged their tails, hearing them batting against the cushions. I smiled, holding them close to me.

Rachel smiled down at me, “There were some packages arrive just now for you.”

I snorted, “That would be from Jenn and the others.”

She smiled softly to me, “I know how much you miss them my love. It’s nearly all their parents talk about.” I smiled up at her.

The children of the Coven of Colburn share a strong bond of friendship, and we hate the fact that we are spread throughout the country. We keep in near regular contact with one another, calling, texting, emailing, anything.

We all stay up-to-date with everyone’s lives. The oldest of the children share the tightest of bonds, given what I saw at the winter solstice. Even the boys chime into the talks.

Now it goes without say that it isn’t all sunshine and rainbows between everyone. We fight, bitterly at times, over the most inane of reasons. Often not speaking to each other for a time, only make up later on.

In the end, this fighting only proves to strengthen our friendships. We celebrate each other’s birthdays, share in on sorrows and woes, and lend a helping ear if the need ever arises.

I...often am seen as a sage amongst the older children, given my…"life experiences”. Many tend to email me with questions about life. It’s not really a role I take any pleasure in, finding it rather annoying whenever someone does have a question they don’t want to take up with their parents.

While some members do live near each other, most do not share in that luxury. Jenn of course lives in St. Louis, Heather in New York, although she’s told me that she actually hates living there, and Mandy’s home is in L.A.

It’s not for safety reasons that the coven is so spread out, but simply due to living all over the place. We really only get to see each other, altogether, during solstice festivals which are of course in the summer and winter.

Everyone loves the summer gathering because it takes place over three days, as opposed to a single night. Although, word on the grapevine is that the winter might in fact be extended longer, or some families are vying for slots to come help out more often.

My mother looked to me, stroking my hair, “You only have to wait a couple more months my love.”

I sighed, “I know, but…no one can predict the future can they?”

She nodded, “Quite true sweetheart.” I leaned my head back onto to the couch. Rachel smiled, “This will be your first birthday as my daughter.”

I nodded, my face flushing pink as it heated up. Her fingers twirled in my hair, tickling my ear with a few strands of it.

I giggled softly, “Oh hey, been meaning to talk to you about that. Well in all honestly, our lack of talking about it.”

She smiled, “I know my love, but I wanted to keep a few things secret for you pertaining to it.”

She walked around the couch, sitting in a chair across from me, “Last year was the first birthday you and I shared together, so I made it into a somewhat more formal affair. This year however, I decided for it to be more causal.”

I looked at her, “Causal for you still means dressing up.”

She grinned, “Well but of course.”

I sighed, shaking my head, but smiled, “Nothing fancy this year?”

She nodded, “Nothing fancy. As for the other reason why you and I haven’t discussed your birthday is due to certain 'surprises' I wanted to remain hidden for you.”

I cocked my head, “Okay…I’ll bite. What do you have in store for me?”

Rachel grinned, tilting a glance upwards as she motioned for the twins to come to her. Micha and Luna giggled as they slid out from my grip and crawled into chair with her. My eyebrows rose in confusion as they did.

I felt the soft touch of fur snaking its way over my shoulders, looking down to see white tails wrapping around me. My eyes grew wide as long thin arms draped over my shoulder.

My heartrate spiked as I felt someone kissing the top of my head. I looked up to see a white-haired woman with golden slit eyes standing over me, with a broad warm smile.

“Hello Aria-chan.”

My mouth dropped open, forming into a wide smile, “Miss Yukari.”

The nine-tailed kitsune smiled ever more, hugging me tightly, “It’s good to see you little one.” I smiled, holding onto her tightly, her tails wrapping around my body. She then lifted me off of the couch, setting me onto the floor, “Happy Birthday.”

I giggled, “Thank you.”

Yukari then released me from her tails as I soon found myself being snatched up into the air by two green gauntlet-like arms, being squeezed tightly against someone’s chest, “Aria-chan,” spoke another woman, with a slightly deeper voice.

I looked up to see a purple haired woman with dragon-like scales adorning the sides of her face with two antler-like horns growing from her head. “Asha!!!”

The ryujin grinned as she hugged me even tighter, “You can’t begin to imagine how much we’ve missed you.” Asha held me by placing her hand under my rear like a child. The only other person who was able to do this was Silvi, given how big both dragons were.

I giggled as she then spun me around, still hugging me. “I’ve missed you guys too,” looking to them both, “when did you get here?”

“Oh…about fifteen minutes ago, but who’s really counting sweetie?” spoke a third voice.

My heart nearly stopped as I craned to see another woman leaning against my door. Tears began to well up in my eyes as I stared at the red-haired woman, with Fenris standing beside her. “Marron,” I whispered. Asha smiled as she lowered me to the floor.

Marron grinned, opening her arms to me, “Now don’t just stand there, come give your big sister a hug.”

I stumbled over my feet, almost tripping, as I ran over to her, hugging her tightly, on the verge of crying. Marron smiled, stroking my hair, “I’ve missed you Baby Ahri.”

I buried my face into her chest, clinging desperately to her, “You’re here. I mean, you’re really here.”

She nodding, “Of course I am sweetie, you didn’t think that I’d miss your birthday now did you?” I shook my head, smiling up at her.

She wiped a tear away from my face, “Good,” bopping my nose softly. I giggled, stilling holding onto her.

We stood there for a moment, letting the world fade away from us, our eyes locked together. My big sister was here with me, for my birthday. “It’s a crime we don’t get to see each that often.”

I nodded, “I’d agree with you on that.” Marron smiled, stroking my hair.

I looked up at her, eyes still tearing up. Marron smiled, still hugging me close to her, “Forever a baby aren’t you sweetie?”

I giggled, nodding, “Maybe.”

She shook her head, wiping away my tears, “You’re gonna have to grow out of it eventually.”

I stuck out my tongue at her, “Never.” She laughed, ruffling my hair. I giggled once more, looking at the pair of daiyokai. They both smiled at me.

I then looked over to my mother, smiling, “So is this why we haven’t been talking much about my birthday?”

Rachel smiled, still holding onto the twin, “That would be correct my love. I wanted to keep their arrival as much of a secret as possible.”

I smiled, looking at everyone. Marron kissed the top of my forehead, rocking me gently. I blushed softly as I still clung to her.

Marron, my first big sister, was standing on my room for the first time in nearly a year, and I was excited. It’s always interesting that whenever I’m with the twins, I’m the mature older sister.

But whenever Marron and I are together, the roles became reversed. I still recalled the summer festival in New Orleans, where I literally was just a child around her all the time. Well not all the time.

Returning to the fact that most of the coven was spread throughout the country, some members were closer than others. Marron and I were chief among them. We texted, called, emailed, everything.

However the both of us knew it wasn’t enough. She wanted desperately to come back to Texas. Hell, I’d be ecstatic to no end if she could live here with Rachel and me.

I buried my face into her chest “So how’ve you been?” I asked.

Marron smiled, “Oh…staying busy with the fun stuff that comes with being an adult.” She grinned at me, loving tapping my nose. I smiled up at her, giggling.

I had long since stopped being an adult in every way. I think it all really started the moment I first transformed into a girl. Everything about me had changed and I slowly became the little girl that I am now.

I still remember the daily struggle between school and work, which became even more complicated because of throwing in the whole life altering event of receiving the necklace and the events of the following eighteen months. But that was all in the past, and she was here now.

I smiled as she stroked my hair softly, “What about you?”

I looked up at her, “Oh…just the usual, learning, living, making my mom’s life difficult.” I felt the cold stare shooting my way as Rachel glared at me. I grinned at her.

She then pulled back slightly, walking us back over to everyone. Both daiyokai now had gathered around my coffee table, with Asha sitting on her coiled tail, and Yukari on another chair adjacent to the couch. Marron smiled as she and I sat back onto my couch.

Yukari looked to me, “How have you been Aria-chan, despite from your letters? Still keeping up with your studies?”

I giggled, “It’s kinda weird that you lead right into my education.”

She smiled, “It’s only natural that I do, little one.”

I smirked softly, nodding. “I’m well for the most part. And thank you both so much for the tomes.”

She smiled softly, “You’re quite welcome Aria-chan.”

Pretty much since after I moved in with Rachel, both Yukari and Asha had been sending me tomes of lore and magic for my studies. I poured over every book they sent me, absorbing everything I could out of them.

“She has been ravenous in her studies,” beamed Rachel as she then looked to Asha, “the gossip has been aiding her immensely with her education into water magic, but admit they are unable to fully replicate the magic that ryujin wield.”

Asha nodded, “That is understandable, given how different both styles are.” I smiled. My mother nodded.

Yukari turned to me, “Back to my prior question, how are you doing?”

I smiled again, “I’m doing well. Granted, France could’ve gone better, but other than that, nothing to complain about.”

The kitsune shook her head, “That isn’t what I am referring to. I want to know how you have been, since that night.”

I looked to her, taking a long deep breath, letting it out in one long sigh, nodding. “I think I’m doing okay, I still miss them at times. And…and.” I sighed, lowering my face.

Marron pulled close to her, stroking my hair softly, “It's okay sweetie.”

I nodded, “Thanks Marron.”

I turned back to Yukari, “It hasn’t been the easiest of things. I’m actually amazed how long I lasted on my own after December.”

“You tried your hardest, Little One, no need to feel ashamed.”

I smiled, seeing Fenris appearing from my balcony. Yukari and Asha both nearly leapt out of their seats as they stared at the massive wolf.

“By the great sea dragon,” exclaimed Asha.

I smirked, shaking my head, “Please don’t scare people like that.” He grinned softy as he sauntered over, sitting in front of me.

Yukari looked at him, examining my bonded. “So this is the wolf that you have been telling us about Rachel.”

My mother nodded, “The one and the same.”

Asha shook her head, “I couldn’t even detect his presence.”

I leaned over on the couch and hugged the wolf from behind, looking up at them, “This is Fenris.”

Fenris looked to both women, “It is a pleasure to finally make your acquaintance. I was not yet able to properly greet you during your first visit here.”

Both women nodded but then looked to Rachel. “What is he talking about?” asked Yukari.

Rachel nodded as she began to explain how Fenris had been on the Estate since before my duel with Irina, having been watchful during my first birthday here, and then finally bonding with after Christmas.

“Well…that is interesting.” Asha gazed at the wolf, her tail still coiled tightly. I smiled, tightly hugging the wolf tightly.

The twins quickly slipped out from Rachel’s grip and ran over to Fenris, who happily laid onto the floor, letting the pups play on him. I giggled as I watched them, the wolf’s tails wagging softly. Rachel smiled at him and then at me.

I still was leaning over the edge of the couch, running my fingers through his fur, hearing him groan happily, eyes trained on me.

Yukari then looked to me, “May I see you in front of us Aria-chan?”

I perked my head up, craning my head over to Rachel, who nodded. I pulled off of the couch, with Asha hoisting the coffee table away, placing it beside her. I stood in front of both yokai. Yukari smiled as she looked me over, fingers softly tapping her lips.

A smile drew across her face, “Oh yes, while you are younger in body, you have grown quite beautifully. Far more adorable and wise since our last visit.” I blushed, smiling.

Asha smiled, “I would agree. A testament to your mother’s love and care.” Rachel beamed with pride as I giggled, twirling for everyone.

This was amazing; I not only had Yukari and Asha with me, but Marron as well. Three very important women in my life were all now sitting in my room. I giggled softly to myself; thinking how incredibly crowded my room felt. I hadn’t had this many people in my room in a long time.

Asha then looked to me, “Show us your kitsune form Aria-chan.”

I tilted my head at her, I figured she would’ve wanted to see me transform into a ryujin first. “Okay…I must be hearing things.”

She smiled, “No…your hearing is fine.”

I looked to her, still slightly confused, “You’re sure?”

She laughed, “I am very sure.” I raised an eyebrow at her, looking over to Yukari, who also smiled, nodding to me.

I sighed, relenting as my tails emerged from me. Eight flowing pinkish-blonde tails swished and swirl around me, feeling my ears moving upwards to the top of my head and growing into large fox ears. Both women smiled at me.

“Beautiful little child,” said Yukari. My ears flattened as my tails wrapped around me.

Asha smiled, “You look even more stunning than you did a year ago Aria-chan. I cannot wait to see you as a ryujin.”

I giggled, “I guess its show and tell time.” Both daiyokai laughed.

Asha smiled as she leaned over to me, “Not just yet. We have plenty of time. But for now, you truly are yokai.” I blushed, smiling to her.

I am yokai. My heart thumped happily at those words. Some might think that I could suffer from an identity crisis, given how many races I could transform into.

In all honesty, I really just didn’t care. For in the end, I'm still me. Each race I became is but a small portion of who I am.

Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Luna bolting from Fenris and tripping on a rug near “Model”, hitting the desk. Several models then began to tumble to the floor.

I reeled back and in a flash of magic, leapt over Marron, and rushed over to her. I wrapped three tails around her, shielding the pup as the other five tails flung outwards, catching the falling models before they slammed into the floor.

I carefully levitated the figures back onto the desk, sighing softly as I knelt beside Luna, unfurling my tails, seeing the little girl’s eyes well up with tears. “I’m…I’m sorry big sister.”

I shook my head as I patted her hair, “It's okay, you’re fine.” She buried her face into my chest as I picked her up and held her in my arms.

Rachel shook her head, “Why don’t we convene somewhere slightly less, ‘fragile’?” The group all agreed as we then left my room and headed downstairs.

We all adjourned to the parlor where Asha and Yukari sat across from Marron and Rachel. Fenris would lie down beside me, watching everyone. I sat with the twins cuddled in my arms. Their little tails wagged softly, gently batting against the armrests.

We all spoke together about our lives, beyond the letters and phone calls. I learned that the factions within Japan had settled for now, which to be honest, hadn’t been that big of an issue for me.

I did ask if it were all right that the two of them were here. Both women smiled, stating that their lieutenants were more than capable of handling the affairs in their absence. I nodded, leaning back into the chair.

Marron spoke of how busy she had been in Seattle since the summer festival. Her company had been commissioned by numerous celebrities for dresses and outfits for all kinds of events.

She had even been selected to go to various shows throughout the country, even a few abroad. I listened intently, also learning more about how everyone in coven was doing.

I then blushed when I heard how the coven had reacted to the events while Rachel and I were in France. Yet more fame heaped onto my reputation.

I knew Jenn had gushed when I told her about my trip, but I still couldn’t believe how many of the girls my age had reacted. I guess the fantasy of visiting a castle and being a princess is still somewhat alive in girls these days. I sighed as I held the pups closer to me.

I blushed as Rachel pulled out the photo album, which had been steadily growing thicker over the past year. In it was a picture of me on the day before she and I flew to France. All three women awed at it, telling me how cute I looked. Marron even stated how natural I looked while sleeping there.

I looked to my mother, who smiled at me. Rachel possessed the ability to take pictures of me when I wasn’t aware, hence the ever thickening album.

My ears flicked as I heard the sound of water droplets softly beating against the windows. I turned to see that it had started to rain, sighing softly. I looked to the twins, who had fallen asleep in my arms. I smiled, wrapping my tails around them.

Rachel walked over to me, “You seem quite content, my darling,” she whispered. I nodded to her, smiling, still stroking their fur. My mother smiled warmly, caressing their little ears.

“Take them home when it stops raining?”

She nodded, “I would say yes.” I smiled, starting to feel warmer as they lay against me.

The rain continued to pour, in fact it poured even harder. As night fell, Rachel helped pulled them off of me as we then laid them gently onto a couch, covering them in a blanket. I smiled as I stroked them as they slept. I then returned to my seat, curling my tails around me.

Yukari smiled, “You truly are kitsune little one.” I blushed softly.

I looked over to Asha, hoping she wasn’t offended. The ryujin smiled to me. I sighed heavily, covering myself with my tails.

“Still ever mindful of those around you, Aria-chan?” she asked.

I nodded, burying my face into my knees as it pulled them into my chest.

She smiled as she softly slithered over to me, cupping my chin, raising it so our eyes met. “You could never in dozen lifetimes ever hope to offend us. It is not the outer appearance we care for, but the heart underneath.” I blushed gently, nodding as I smiled. She nodded, “There’s that lovely smile we treasure.” I giggled softly.

When the rain had calmed, the twins' father Warwick, appeared. He gathered up his sleeping children and turned for the door. I hopped off my chair and followed after him, watching him easily carry both pups in each arm.

He smiled to me, “We shall see you tomorrow night, Young Miss,” he said softly.

I smiled in return, “Have a good night Master Warwick, hope the rain doesn’t on your way home.”

He bowed softly, “Thank you Young Miss,” he then bowed his head to me and turned for the door. I watched as he disappeared in the darkness.

Rachel stepped behind me, resting a hand onto my shoulder, “Come love, Asha and Yukari have something they wish to speak with you.” I nodded as I turned, heading back inside.

The daiyokai were both smiling as I returned the parlor. Marron had scooted herself to one side on the couch, patting the seat next to her. I smiled as I happily hopped next to her. Both women then looked to me.

“We wanted to discuss your trip to Japan,” started the kitsune.

I looked at them, “You’re not thinking of cancelling it are you?”

Asha shook her head, “No Aria-chan, we promised that you could return and we meant it. Now, remember your question from last year about who you would be staying with while you are there?”

I nodded.

“Well…after speaking with your mother, we have decided that the obvious and simplest option would be the Yukari will have guardianship of you.”

I looked at her, “But…what about you?”

She smiled, “I will still conduct your training as a ryujin, but will come to take you away when it is time to do so. Other than that, you will remain with Yukari.”

I blinked, “That sounds a little unfair if you ask me.”

The ryujin’s smile warmed, “Aria-chan, the most important fact that I take from this is that you and I will be spending more time together than ever before. And I’ll admit the fact that I would spoil you a bit too much. Given how I already do.”

I giggled, and then sighed heavily, “Still sucks though.”

Rachel placed her hand onto my shoulder, “It might seem that way sweetheart. But this arrangement will work for the best.”

My head tilted in disbelief, “Uh-huh, to you maybe.”

My mother smiled at me, “It will work. You’ll see my love.”

I sighed, “Well…if you say so,” I then looked back at the yokai, “I’m guessing you already have a plan of what’s going to happen while I’m there right?”

They nodded to me. “We do. But we won’t reveal it to you until your arrival,” replied Yukari.

My ears flattened out, “Oh come on.”

Rachel chuckled softly, “I know it’s a hard to wait more than you already have my love, but I assure you that your patience shall be rewarded.”

I let out a groan, “Oh fine.”

She then yanked on one my ears, “No pity parties young lady.” I yelped, blushing at her. Her face wore a firm yet gentle appearance, with her hand releasing my ear.

I rubbed it softly, looking back at the yokai, “How long will I be staying in Japan?”

Yukari smiled as she crossed her legs, “A little over two months.”

My heart nearly skipped a beat as my mouth held agape, “Two…two months?”

Asha nodded, grinning, “That would be correct.”

My face flushed deep red as I peered over to my mother, who was sinking deeply into her chair, clinching the armrests. She obviously didn’t like the sound of that.

To be honest, I was probably just as, if not more, nervous about the prospect of being away for two months. My eyes darted from side to side as I tried to piece my thoughts together.

My tails on the other hand were swishing around like crazy. Yukari grinned, “Well, it would appear that someone is rather excited about this bit of news.” My face blushed even more as I quickly wrapped my tails around me.

This was just nuts. While I had been waiting to actually go on this trip, it was at most still a far off dream. But now it was really going to happen.

When my parents left on their mission trip, I remembered how anxious they were during the months leading up to when I took them to the airport. All of the prepping, planning, putting into place contingencies for if the worst-case scenario were to happen.

Now granted I wouldn’t be facing possibility of getting mauled to death by a lion, which I think Fenris might have something to say before that was to ever happen. But this was just as big. Ok…way bigger, I’d be away for two whole months.

While there I’d learning more about my yokai forms, not just that, I’d literally being living in Japan. I imagined myself being immersed in the culture, both yokai and human.

I joked to myself about on how long it would take for me to revert back to English once I came home. What else would I experience while there? So many thoughts spun through my mind I thought I was going to hurl.

I saw a hand reaching through my cocoon of tails, softly stroking my face as it pried it open. Rachel smiled softly to me, “I know you are nervous, my love. Heavens know that I am as well.” I nodded timidly to her. Her hand caressed my cheek, smoothing it over softly with her thumb.

“Why don’t you come on out?”

I felt like sinking deeper into the couch, but felt another hand resting on my shoulder. I looked up through my tails to see Marron smiling at me. I looked at both women, sighing as I slowly unfurled my tails.

Everyone smiled softly to me. I curled my tails around my body, hugging them tightly. My ears then perked as the sound of rain started up again, hearing it beating against the windows. I wondered if Warwick and the twins were able to make it home in time.

Fenris then sat up, staring softly at me. I smiled, reaching out to him, stroking his fur.

“Can I take him with?”

Asha and Yukari looked at me, then to Rachel. My mother smiled, “I do not see a problem with it. After all, you will need his help during your training.” I smiled up at her, still stroking the wolf’s fur.

Asha exhaled softly, “A magical wolf in Japan. Amongst the yokai factions, I do not foresee many issues. As for the humans…well I think you already have that covered.”

I smiled to her, knowing that before I moved here how Fenris and I managed with him around me. I also recalled France once more. But this trip was going to be a combination of that and my old home, only amplified a thousand times over. I nodded softly to her.

Yukari peered at Fenris, as if studying him. His head turned towards him, with a smile rising from his lips. She smiled in return. “I will concur with the consensus. While you shall be under both of our protection, having your bonded as well will only add to it.”

I looked to her, “You mean from humans?

The kitsune smiled, “Not exactly. As I said, you’ll know what the plans are once you arrive.” I sighed softly. Great, be even more cryptic.

Again, this trip was going to be completely different than the first time Rachel and I went. I couldn’t wait for it. I looked to them, “What else will I be doing there?” Both women smiled to me.

“You will just have to wait and see,” answered Yukari.

Asha nodded, “Everyone is excited and anxious to see you again. I cannot begin to tell you how much they love hearing about you.”

Ok, a little backstory on who Asha is referring to. When I was taken during my first trip, I woke up in Asha’s home, a temple. Surrounding her were dozens of other yokai, shirohebi and nekomata.

In the few short hours I got to spend with the group, I had become friends with them. It might be a little weird at how fast a person can become friends with complete strangers, but then I will point out how that’s just how things work in life.

I tend to become friends with people quickly. My letters from Asha tend to be thicker as they are stuffed with letters from everyone. I always smile as I read over how they are doing. I actually have an entire binder dedicated to letters from Japan. And it grows thicker with each letter I receive.

I closed my eyes as I reverted back to a human, feeling exhausted. My eyes slowly grew heavy as my head bobbled slightly. It had been a long day, a really long day. I looked up at everyone, still having enough energy to talk.

But before I could say a word, I felt Rachel pulling me into her. “I believe you should head onto bed young lady. While it may not yet be your bedtime, you do need your rest.”

My shoulders slumped as I craned my head to her, nodding, “Yes ma’am.”

She then kissed my forehead, “Goodnight sweetheart.”

I smiled to her, “Night Rachel.”

Marron chuckled, “Beddy bye Baby Ahri. Want me to tuck you in and read you a bedtime story?” pinching my cheeks.

I glared at her, “Not, funny.”

She laughed, hugging me close to her, “Love you sweetie.”

I smiled to her, “Love you too Marron.”

Yukari smiled to me, “Goodnight Aria-chan.”

“We shall see you in the morning Aria-chan,” spoke Asha.

I slowly rose from the couch, smiling to both of them, “Oyasuminasai (Goodnight),” bowing my head to them. Both yokai grinned warmly.

Fenris and I then walked towards the door. I could feel warm and caring eyes watching me as I left the parlor. I could hear the voices coming from the parlor, speaking low enough to where I could make out what they were saying. Fenris and I slowly ascended the stairs, hearing his claws clicking on the marble tiling.

We walked through the corridors and came upon my room. I felt a gentle wisp brush through my mind, more like the passing of a comforting greeting. I turned to see Xiphos emerging from the shadows, “Good evening Little Scholar.”

I smiled to him, “Evening Professor.”

The sphinx walked up to me, his large eagle-like wings folded against his leonine body. His long white beard shifted against his chest with every step. I turned to face him, still smiling. “Another birthday draws upon you, little one.”

I nodded, “Yep. I’m guessing you already knew we had guests.”

He nodded to me, “That I did.”

The sphinx then stepped closer, lowering to his head down to look at me. His amber eyes peered gently into mine. His smile was soft and warm. I have to both laugh and blush at the family I had. Of course I had my mother, sisters, and aunt. Not to mention a father-figure in the giant wolf standing beside me.

Xiphos filled the role of my grandfather in some respect. He always looked after me, giving wisdom and advice whenever I needed it. Family isn’t always related by blood. Hehe, doesn’t even need to be related by race.

Xiphos stood taller than Fenris, and the two even shared a healthy friendship with the other. I looked at my still open door, eyeing my bed.

“Are you all right Little Scholar?”

I nodded, “This is going to be my first birthday as her daughter. And I have nothing weighing me down this time.”

The sphinx nodded, “This shall be different for the both of you. There is nothing troubling you this year as well.”

I looked to him, giggling, “Correct on both points Professor.”

Last year I still was mending my relationship with my birth mother, so I had much on my mind. But now I was here, and had put all of that behind me. I let out a soft yawn, stretching out my body.

He smiled tenderly, “Gather your rest, little one.”

I smiled, “Night Professor.”

His bearded face curled into a smile, “Goodnight little one.” I bowed my head to him and slipped into my room, closing the doors behind me.

I walked over to my bed, plopping headfirst into the soft covers. Fenris carefully hopped onto the bed, laying himself beside me. I looked over to him, meeting his gaze. I smiled, “Night Fenris.”

The wolf softly batted his tails against my legs, “Goodnight little one.”

I nodded, crawling under my covers. As I closed my eyes, the sounds of rain could be heard beating against my balcony door. I was going to wake up to it in the morning. Again, not that bad of a thing. I closed my eyes, letting the rain sing me sleep.

The sound of thunder crashing roused me from sleep. Man was it loud. I could easily sleep through the worst of thunderstorms, even when the house would shudder as the thunder clapped just outside your window. But this was way louder and rattled everything in my room. Not exactly the gentlest of wake-up calls.

I sat up on my bed, feeling the joints in my arms and wrists popping as I pressed my hands together. My room was still dark. Rain was still pouring heavily outside, hearing it beat relentlessly against my windows.

I craned my head over to my bedside table, eyeing the alarm clock that rested on it. 6:02 a.m. I sighed, rolling myself out of bed, setting my feet onto the soft carpet.

I leaned over and stretched, slowly feeling my body coming to life. After a couple minutes I wandered into my bathroom, shedding my clothes, and tossing them into my hamper.

After getting dressed, I plopped myself onto my couch, flicking on a lamp. My eyes then trained onto a package lying on my coffee table. It was wrapped in simple brown paper and tied together with string.

I leaned over and picked it up. It was slightly heavy and thick. I tapped my knuckle on it, hearing it knock like wood.

I slowly unraveled the string and opened it. My eyes grew as large as melons. It was the final book of the Dragon Wings series. As I opened it, something has written on the inside of hard cover.

To my beloved fan,

I thank you for all of your support and pray that your birthday is splendid and blessed. This is the second book off of the press, of which I had specifically pulled just for you. I look forward to your thoughts on it.

Minerva Oslont.

It was actually signed by her. A bright grin rose on my lips. I leaned backwards, eyeing one of my bookmarks. I had one in particular that I used with every book I read.

It really was just the printed art from a couple of my wall scrolls that I had stapled together. Simple as it was, it's served me well for years.

I hopped off of the couch and snatched it from my desk and retook my seat. I gleefully opened the book and started to tear into it. I was already twenty pages in before I realized it

A knock rang on my door, but I was so ingrained into the book that I simply didn’t notice it. a few moments later, I found my eyes being covered.

“Happy birthday, Baby Ahri.”

I grinned, “Hi Marron.”

She released her hands from my eyes and walked around the couch, sitting beside me. She smiled softly, looking at me, “Yet another book to read, eh?”

I giggled, “Yep.”

Her smiled never faded, “For as long as I’ve known you, you have always loved to read.”

I nodded, “Well you did take me to a couple bookstores, one was rather obscure.”

Marron leaned back in the couch, thinking. “That’s right, I remember now. The one with the clothing store attached to it.” I nodded.

She smiled, leaning over to me, pressing her forehead against mine, “I still love those few months that you and I were together. I always thought about what it would be like if you did live with me.”

I looked to her, “It would’ve been amazing I think,” feeling my face blush warmly.

Marron pulled back slightly and nodded, “You have no idea sweetie.” I smiled at her.

When Marron and I reunited last year, she revealed to me that she thought about asking me to move in with her. Granted that was before she was recalled early and I met Rachel a few months later. Truth be told, during those first few months I actually thought about the very same thing. But I never told her about it.

She grinned, patting my knee, “Come on, everyone is waiting for us.” I nodded, bookmarking my place in the book.

Marron and I then rose from the couch and headed for the door. She pulled me close her as we walked together. Fenris walked beside us, his fur brushing against my body. I smiled at him, running my fingers through his fur.

It was great seeing the table full for breakfast. The storm was still raging outside, even the wind had picked up slightly, hearing it howling against the windows. I worried about the twins braving the storm. I knew they would be devastated if they couldn’t come for my birthday.

I leaned back in my chair, remembering that last year I met Miriam, one of the leaders of the coven. I hope she’s doing well.

I have to laugh, because I kinda think of her like my grandmother at times. She definitely gave off that vibe. Hell, over the past year, I had come to see many within the coven as family. I even fantasied sometimes about if I were to become a full member, what I would be doing as an adult.

“I heard you have already unwrapped your gift from Minerva,” Rachel said, smiling to me.

“Signed and all. It’s great as always, still sucks that it’s the last volume,” I giggled.

She smiled, “Minerva told me she was going to send you a copy for you birthday. I am just glad it got to us in time.” I giggled once more, still holding the book.

Yukari then looked to Rachel, who in turn, smiled and nodded. “Aria-chan?”

I looked to her, “Yes Miss Yukari?”

She smiled to me, “As part of your birthday presents from Asharyume and I, how would you like to have a couple of lessons from us? Think of them as a prelude to your training come springtime.”

My eyes grew huge, “Really?”

She nodded to me, “We figured since we are here from the week, we could better utilize that time, rather than merely visiting with you.” I then craned my over to my mother who nodded to me.

“Yukari, while I did agree to it, I remind you of the box that you are about to open in front of my daughter.”

The kitsune chuckled, “I believe we can manage a little girl.”

Marron grinned, “Pride goeth before the fall, my Lady.” Yukari smiled at her.

My heart pounded in my chest. It’s no secret that I loved to learn, but now I was going to being learning from the very yokai that I would be staying with in just four and a half months.

I looked to them, “So whose gonna be teaching me first?”

Asha raised her hand, “That would be me Aria-chan.”

I smiled to her, “This is going to be so much fun.”

Both women smiled to me. Rachel leaned over, “Only two days however sweetheart. That will be how long they have before returning to Japan the day after. Granted, your lessons won’t be until the day after tomorrow.” I nodded to her. I leaned back into my chair, grinning like an idiot as my mind swooned with what they were going to teach me.

Throughout most the day, the rain didn’t stop. It wasn’t until the evening that it finally let up somewhat. I smiled happily when the twins and their father showed up. The party wasn’t as formal as it was a year ago. So I wore a simple party dress. Still not a fan of heels, but Rachel asked that I would. So I did.

Silvi and Velhemina also attended, but as always, started into their “routine”. It was good having everyone there. Now I had Fenris with me, so it felt even better.

Something that did catch my eye was how often he would sit beside Abigale. The two of them seemed to have become rather close recently. I giggled, picturing them as a couple.

Now I had seen her transform into her beast a couple times. As a kikimora, her true form was that of a winged wolf and bird-like scales on her paws. She was truly beautiful in that form. Well she looked amazing in her “human” form as well.

When it came time for gifts, we retired to the parlor. This year I decided to open the twins present first. It was hand drawn pictures they had made during their lessons, depicting the three of us together. I smiled, hugging them tightly to me, thanking them. I watched as their little tails wagged happily.

Next was Velhemina, she gifted me with a Dogwood sapling, one the many she had been cultivating in the greenhouse for me. I smiled her, hugging my aunt tightly as well. I wanted to plant a few around the Estate, hoping to add to the property.

Silvi’s gift was a necklace made from her scales. The scales appeared to be burning as I held them. I smiled, thanking her. Marron of course gifted me with three new dresses. I learned that it was she who made the outfit I wore a year ago.

Marron not only was a fashion designer, but was heavily involved with creating custom cosplays. That line of work had always been keeping her busy throughout the year. One of the dresses was a hanfu Lolita dress. I blushed as it looked like something a little child would wear. But I loved it anyways.

Asha and Yukari’s gifts were given at the same time. Both opened crates full of books on lore and magic for both ryujin and kitsune.

Marron actually laughed when they revealed it. “You do remember how much this little girl loves to read right? Knowing her, within two to three weeks she’ll not only have read everything, but will also have dissected, written notes, and reports on every book. ”

Both yokai laughed in return, acknowledging it. “We are very well aware of that,” exclaimed Yukari.

Within the cases were each small crystalline stones. I instantly recognized what they were. Lesson stones. Each probably housed dozens upon dozens of lessons that I would be diving into in the coming months. Rachel had given the very same kind of stones after she began my magic training a year ago.

During the times when I couldn’t come to the Estate or even shortly before I came to live here. I’d see her image and listen to her voice as she gave each lesson. It became a comfort for me during those times.

Asha smiled as she slunk over to me, pulling me into her lap. I blushed and smiled. She then motioned to another case behind the first one. I looked up to her.

She grinned, “I also had my girls pick up a few extra “little” gifts for you from Akihabara,” winking to me. I grinned brightly her.

I am and always shall be an anime fan through and through. But getting it straight from the source is incredible. I looked over to Rachel who realized what the contents of the other case were.

She shook her head, “Now you are merely spoiling my daughter Asharyume.” The ryujin smiled as she held me.

I smiled as the then pulled out the gifts I received from Jenn and the others. The first was from Heather. It was a brand new pair of designer shoes from a boutique near her. I smiled as I pulled out my phone, taking my picture of it.

Mandy’s gift was the latest album from a power metal group that I had fallen in love with over the past year. The last package was, of course, from Jenn. It was a brand new camera.

I had to giggle as I looked at it. I knew I was definitely going to be using it, alongside my phone, while in Japan. I quickly texted everyone, thanking them for the gifts.

The final gift, naturally, came from my mother. It was a picture of the both of us shortly after she asked to adopt me. I teared up because it was the first picture of us as a real family. I looked up at Rachel, tears now flowing down my cheeks as and hugged her.

She smiled, holding me close to her. “You are my heart and world, my beloved girl.”

I smiled to her, “I love you Rachel.”

She leaned over and kissed my forehead, “I love you too, my girl.”

Everyone smiled as they watched.

The rest of the night was quiet as we continued to talk. The rain had finally subsided a couple hours into the party. I looked over to see that the twins had fallen asleep.

Their father picked them up into his arms, holding tightly. “I pray you had a good birthday Young Miss,” he whispered.

I nodded to him, “I did sir.”

He smiled, hoisting the pups up as he bowed to Rachel, “A good night to you My Lady.”

She stood and smiled to him, “And to you as well Master Warwick.” He bowed his head one more time, and turned, exiting the parlor.

I myself was starting to nod off as I peered over to see the clock reading past ten. Rachel smirked as she walked over to me, resting a hand onto my head. “Did you have a good birthday sweetheart?” I nodded sleepily to her.

She smiled, “I’m glad. But now I see yet another child who must turn in for the night.”

I nodded, slumping deeper into the couch. Fenris and Rachel both then walked in front of me. Rachel then pulled me up off of the couch, “Wish everyone a goodnight and then it’s off to bed with you.” I smiled, feeling like a child.

I turned and smiled, “Have a good night everyone. And thank you for the gifts.”

Marron smiled came over and hugged me, “Love you sweetie. I’ll see you in the morning.” I hugged her back.

Asha and Yukari both came over and took turns hugging me and wishing me a good night. Silvi and Velhemina smiled to me as they stood up, also walking over to me. I felt like I was going to be smothered by the constant stream of hugs and kisses.

Rachel stepped in, “All right, all right everyone. I do believe that I was trying to send this little girl off to bed.” I blushed softly. She then turned to me, “Off to bed young lady. I will be there shortly.” I nodded, waving goodnight to everyone a final time.

Fenris and I then turned exited the parlor. I staggered up the stairs to my room, fighting back the urge to simply drop to the floor and fall asleep. When I finally got to my room, I closed the door and took off the dress, hanging it up. I slipped into some pajamas and crawled into bed.

Fenris decided to lay on the floor by my bed, hearing the massive wolf’s body plopping on the floor. I smiled, pulling the cover over me as I lied down onto the bed. Yet another amazing birthday was now in the books. My body felt as though it was going to be swallowed up.

The lights dimmed softly, then hearing the door creak open. I felt the bed depressing as I turned my head to see Rachel sitting beside me. I smiled to her, “Hey.” She smiled in return, stroking my hair, “Did you have a good time?” I nodded.

She then leaned over and kissed my forehead, “Good. Now get some rest sweetheart.” I gave a slight, gentle sigh feeling my body sinking into my bed, slowly closing my eyes.