Elpitha

[Limegreen Queen]

That's ok Zin! We can wait. Maybe.

[zinovia]

Elpitha: Chapter 35: A New Family

A/N: I don’t really know what to say about this chapter. I hope you like it! The only real announcement I have is that the end is near. Chapter 37 will be the last chapter. It’s been a long ride, hasn’t it?

Dust and leaves rose, branches shook, and fences trembled as the wind whipped past. Elpitha was not sure where she would end up. She just continued to run. When the wind changed direction, she followed it, and soon found herself out of town and in the woods. The wind changed direction again and she found herself running on a familiar rocky path.

Jack stood up slowly. The church seemed hollow and empty now that Elpitha was gone. His limbs felt heavy and it was with an effort that he began to drag himself towards the doors. Outside there was virtually no wind, but he hardly noticed as he began towards the square. It was too much. In an instant, Ellen was alive again. In a moment, the one wish that he had held onto for over a decade had come true. A miracle had occurred. He was on the receiving end of it, and yet he was broken. In one night he had lost her. She had died all over again.

Elpitha stood at the edge of mother’s peak, staring up at the sky. The wind was circling her, pushing her away from the precipice until she was in the center of the mountain top. Her hair flew forward as the wind blew suddenly through her. It was everywhere at once. Dust, twigs, pebbles, and dirt rose in the air as the wind flew by. It was as though a giant tornado formed, lifting up everything in its path. The tornado contracted, its diameter decreasing steadily until it was only about a foot wide. Then it began to shorten itself, so that the diameter increased again and nothing remained but a whirling sphere of dirt, pebbles, and twigs. The sphere rose slowly until it was five feet from the ground.

Jack stood on the ramp that led down to the beach. He heard shouts in the distance and saw that Won had another late-night visitor. A small ferry was docked next to his house and Won was visible making shrewd deals for more “quality merchandise.” Thoughts began to run through Jack’s head. Someone would definitely adopt Spike. There was nothing left behind that he really needed to take or that he couldn’t send for. He could even send for Spike, as a matter of fact. If he slipped out now, there would be no resistance. No one was expecting it and he wouldn’t be bothered. All he had to do was hitch a ride with that ferry…

Elpitha gasped. The sphere had disintegrated, and in its wake floated a little girl. She was in her night gown, the way Elpitha had last seen her.

“Mikri?” Elpitha whispered.

The girl smiled. “Elli!” She cried happily. Her childish voice echoed as she spoke. Elpitha shuddered.

“Are you… is this… is this real?” Elpitha asked quietly, more to herself than to Mikri.

“Mommy and daddy sent me.” The girl laughed. “They said you were lonely.”

Tears were escaping Elpitha’s eyes and rolling down her face. “Mommy and d… daddy?” She asked weakly.

“They said you were mad at yourself. They said… they said don’t be mad anymore. Wow, Elli, you got big!”

Elpitha laughed and sobbed at the same time. “Yeah, I got big. You didn’t, though…”

“Don’t be sad, Elli. I’m happy. We’re all happy up there. We want you to be happy too.” Mikri giggled. “Everyone deserves to be happy.”

“But… but even after what I did?” Elpitha asked, shakily.

“I forgive you, Elli. So do mommy and daddy. It was a mistake, that’s all. You were the one that got left behind. You were all alone, and that’s why I followed you. You were lonely and lost. I wanted to push you in the right direction. I wanted to help you so you wouldn’t be sad.”

“You… you were helping me… all along…”

“Now that you’ve found a new family, I don’t have to follow you anymore… but we’ll be watching. Always.”

Mikri’s body began to look dusty. The dust was falling off of her form and falling to the ground. Elpitha gasped and took a step forward.

“Wait! Wait!” She cried.

“Goodbye, Elli! Don’t cry. I’ll see you again!” Mikri cried in response. Her voice sounded hollow, as though it was coming from far away. The dust continued to fall, and her limbs fell along with it. Her feet disintegrated into falling dust, followed by her legs and torso. When only her head was left, there was a small explosion of wind, and the dust scattered and settled. Elpitha threw her arms over her face to keep the dust out of her eyes.

Jack walked down the ramp with determination. It was now or never. As he reached the bottom plank, however, it collapsed and he fell forward. Cursing, he rolled over and yanked his foot out of the hole. Gotz would have to attend to that later. Jack stood up and made his way down the beach. He hadn’t gone far, however, when he began to sink into the sand.

“What the…” He said. He stumbled and fell onto his face once more. “Stu must have been digging holes again. Elli really should do something about that boy.” He thought.

Jack stood up and continued to walk. As he neared the water, however, a fish jumped out of the water and hit him in the face. “What the hell is going on?” He cried in frustration as another fish flew at him. A third one hit him and a fourth. He dodged them and caught a fifth one, throwing it onto the beach in disgust. “Take that, you little… what’s the matter? Can’t breathe? Well then stay in the water where you belong!”

Jack was about to kick the fish back into the water, when it turned a beady eye in his direction and spoke.

“Where do you think you’re going?” A woman’s voice asked.

Jack stepped back.

Elpitha uncovered her face and looked around frantically. “Wait!” She cried. “Wait, don’t leave me!” She kicked up the dust at her feet as though expecting it to materialize into her little sister. Finally, she just sat down and put her face in her knees. They were… happy. They were happy. She was the one who was unhappy. She was the one who was miserable. All these years she had blamed herself, but there was nowhere to place blame. There was no one to point a finger at. She had been running for so long, but she was tired now. She didn’t want to run anymore. They were happy and they forgave her. That was all that she needed to know. She felt suddenly lighter. She felt as though a knot within her had suddenly come loose. She could breathe again. They were happy, and they forgave her. They forgave her…

It’s strange how the mind works. Under normal circumstances, the fact that a fish spoke would have been the first thing to cross Jack’s mind, and yet it was not. The first thing to cross Jack’s mind was the fish’s eyes. Fish don’t have beady eyes. Fish don’t turn their eyes in your direction and give you a piercing stare. Fish don’t fly out of the water and hit you in the face. My, but that’s a gorgeous fish. Then it hit him like a ton of bricks. The fish spoke… and what a lovely voice it had!

“Wake up, stupid!”

Jack gave himself a shake. “I… I… what the hell? Am I losing it?” He stuttered.

The fish spoke once more. “I am the goddess. I have taken this form.”

“But… but… fish don’t talk!” Three more fish flew out of the ocean and hit Jack in the face.

“Listen, will you? I’m losing patience.” The fishy goddess replied.

Jack’s brain snapped back to reality. “Yes… yes, of course! What can I do for you?”

“I came to tell you that you forgot something on Mother’s Hill. Go and retrieve it before it’s too late.”

Jack smiled sadly. “It doesn’t matter. I’m sure it was nothing of value, and I don’t have much time here.”

“Let me repeat that.” The goddess replied dangerously. “You forgot something on Mother’s Hill. Go and retrieve it before it’s too late.”

Jack’s heart skipped a beat. “You mean… Yes! Yes, I’ll go right now!” He turned and ran, his heart pounding in his chest.

“Mortals…” The goddess sighed as she disintegrated into thin air.

The clouds tired of watching Mother’s Hill. The young woman sitting in the center of it was no longer moving or speaking. She simply sat with her face in her knees, and so they parted and went on their way, allowing the moon to catch a glimpse of her as it sent down its silvery rays. The pale light showered her, but she seemed unaware that her audience had thinned to a single, shining spectator in the sky above.

It was here that he found her, panting slightly as he allowed his heart rate to slow down. She was so still and mysterious, bathing in the moonbeams, that she seemed almost divine. He took one tentative step and then another. If his footfalls made any noise, she appeared to be deaf to it. She did not stir. He inched closer, fear in his eyes as he approached her, as though he thought that if he lost sight of her, even for an instant, she would simply disappear. He sank to one knee in front of her and, reaching out, lifted her face to look at him. Her face was tearstained.

She laughed, more tears spilling from her eyes as she did so. “I saw her! Jack, I saw her!” She whispered.

Jack kept her face in his hands. He never wanted to let it go. “Who? Who did you see?” He asked shakily.

“Mikri… She said she was happy. They’re happy, Jack.” Elpitha laughed, tears still falling.

“That’s great. That’s… that’s incredible!” Jack laughed in reply, his eyes glistening. He laughed once more, and several drops spilled down his cheeks.

“They forgive me. All this time… and they never blamed me. They forgive me… Do you forgive me, Jack?”

Jack leaned forward, bringing Elpitha’s face closer to his. He kissed her, and her eyes closed automatically. It was more than forgiveness that she felt from him. It was more than friendship, companionship, and physical attraction. It was love, plain and simple.

When Elpitha finally opened her eyes, she found Jack looking at her, his eyes shining. She laughed and stroked his face. “I’m so sorry, Jack.” She murmured.

“Don’t apologize. There’s nothing to apologize for.”

They stared at the moon for a while.

“Jack?”

“Yes?”

“I’m really sorry.”

“Don’t apologize. It’s all in the past.”

More time passed in silence.

“Jack, I really am s…”

“Elpitha?”

“What is it?”

“If you apologize to me one more time, I’m going to throw you in the lake.”

Winter had arrived in full force. A blizzard howled through the town, battering the walls of any houses that dared to get in its way. Elli put another log on the fire. Baby Mike rolled around on a blanket on the floor. He was able to push himself up onto his hands, but not for long. Soon he would be crawling around. Stu was on his stomach in front of the baby, trying to get him to crawl forward. Doc sat in an armchair in the corner, poring over a file.

“It’s been over a season and the thought of Elpitha and Jack still brings a smile to my face.” Elli said.

Doc looked up. “Yes. I wonder when they’ll start going out.”

“Start?” Elli asked incredulously. “They’ve been going out for quite a while now!”

“But Elpitha hasn’t said anything about Jack being her boyfriend.”

“Never mind Elpitha. You know how she is. Trust me. They’re going out.”

“You’re right, of course. As a matter of fact, a little birdie told me that Jack has some plans for this coming spring.”

Elli jumped. “Is it a blue birdie? And is he planning on ripping out its tail feather and giving it away to someone special?”

“Perhaps.” Doc laughed.

“Oh, I’m so excited!” Elli cried. She reached for another log.

Doc stood up and grabbed it from her. “I really wish you wouldn’t do that. It’s not good for you, you know.”

Elli snatched back the log and threw it into the fireplace. “What’s the matter with you? What are you talking about?”

“Well I just finished going over your chart. You hadn’t been feeling well and I gave you an exam, remember?”

“And?”

“And you’re pregnant… again.”

Stu jumped up and clapped his hands. “Alright! Have another boy! There aren’t any boys in this town for me to play with!”

In preparation for their impending wedding, Daniel and Karen had spoken to Elli about Ellen’s house. Daniel had bought it and was living there now. Karen was staying with him during the storm.

“When are Mary and Gray going to finally tie the knot? It’s been ages since Gray proposed.” Daniel said suddenly, waking Karen from her reverie.

“Well the problem is housing. There isn’t anywhere in town that’s available. They really don’t want to have to live with Mary’s parents and be a burden on them. Actually, they’ve been looking at Elpitha’s house.” Karen replied.

“Elpitha’s house? But Elpitha lives there!”

“Perceptive. Look, she’s with Jack now, right? And Jack’s gonna propose himself soon. That’s what the rumors are anyway. Once they get married, Elpitha’s house will be up for sale.”

“How do you know Elpitha will say yes to the proposal?”

“Because if she doesn’t, me, Mary, and Elli will kill her. She loves him, no matter what she says. She’ll accept. I think she’s over her fears now.”

“Hmmm… Imagine that… Elpitha and Jack married. What next?” Daniel laughed.

Popuri shivered when as another blast of wind made the walls shake. Kai stepped up behind where she was sitting and wrapped his arms around her.

“It’s just wind, babe. Nothing’s coming through those walls.” He said soothingly.

They were seated at a table in his restaurant. Popuri snuggled against Kai. “Yeah… It’s too bad I got stuck here when the storm struck. I called mom and dad and let them know where I was so they wouldn’t be worried.”

Kai laughed softly. “Yes, too bad you got stuck in the storm… even though you knew about it well before anyone else, and even though I suggested that maybe you should get going before the storm got bad. Yes, too bad.”

Popuri snuggled even closer to Kai and pouted at him. “I didn’t know it was gonna be this bad! And besides, if you didn’t want me here, you could have just said so! I’ll go home right now!” She said sulkily. She made to stand up, but Kai held her in place.

“Easy there, doll. You know I like it when you stay over.” He gave a mock sigh. “It would be that someone like me ends up with not one, but two girls that wanna wait until marriage.”

“Hey! It’s better that way. Besides, it’s not like I surprised you with that one.” Popuri laughed.

“No. No, you didn’t. But still… A guy like me… I don’t know how long I can wait…” Kai sighed once more.

“Well, I won’t until I’m married. I told you that already! Why? What are you thinking of now?” Popuri asked with a scowl. She tried to get up again, but Kai held her down.

“Thinking of? Nothing.” Kai replied, reaching into his pocket. “Nothing at all. I just realized that I can’t wait anymore, that’s all. I’m a man. I have needs. Those needs need to be met.”

“Well, I don’t care! I won’t before I’m married!” Popuri cried.

“Well… Well then, I’m going to have to marry you. That is, if you’ll have me.” Kai replied nonchalantly, opening his fist and presenting her with a ring.

Popuri laughed out loud. “What? Oh, Kai! Of course I’ll marry you!” She took the ring and looked at it. “What’s this?”

Kai looked puzzled. “An engagement ring. That’s what they do on the mainland.”

“A ring? No blue feather?” Popuri pouted.

Kai jumped. “Why… yes! Of course! Do you think I would forget something like that?!” Popuri was not facing him. He stood behind her with his arms around her, and behind her back, he looked around frantically. On the wall to his left was a feathered mardi gras mask that he had picked up on one of his excursions. Casually slipping his arm away from her, he reached out and plucked off a large blue feather, hiding it behind his back.

Popuri turned to face him. “Kai, are you teasing me?” She asked, scowling once more.

Kai laughed casually. “Me? Tease you, gorgeous? Never!” He presented her with the blue feather. “Popuri, will you marry me?”

Popuri snatched the blue feather from him. “Oh Kai! Yes! Yes, of course I’ll marry you! Oh, I’m so happy!” She threw her arms around him. “Oh, Kai… I’m so excited. Do you think it will be tough being married?”

Kai laughed once more. “Tough? Don’t worry, baby. I’m always prepared!”

Elpitha was spending the night with Jack. Mikri and Spike slept on a rug before the fire, intermittently casting sidelong glances at their masters. Elpitha and Jack sat in armchairs facing a large window. They watched the storm rage outside.

“That’s so pretty…” Elpitha sighed. “Still, I wish spring would come.”

“Yeah, it’s pretty.” Jack agreed. “Cheer up. Spring isn’t that far away. Every season has its own perks.”

“True, but spring means new beginnings. There will be flowers and warm weather. Everyone and everything cheers up when spring comes along. Mother nature defrosts. It’s just… wonderful.” Elpitha sighed once more.

Jack smiled and glanced sideways at Elpitha, darting his eyes back towards the window before she could see him. “Yes…” He said softly. “I can’t wait for spring either…”

Until next time…

[melody]

That was very good, Zin! I loved it.

I'm so glad Jack and Elpitha are finally together. I was getting impatient. Haha ^-^;;

[Herfefiny]

Awwwwww! That was so adorable! I'm so happy for all the couples, and Elli.

[BorderWolf]

Excellent chapter Zin!

"Mortals" #lmfao#

“If you apologize to me one more time, I’m going to throw you in the lake.” #lmfao#

*exalts*

[Butterscotch]

“Elpitha’s house? But Elpitha lives there!”

We can't put one over on him!
And I loved Popuri and Kai's engagement scene ^^

[Limegreen Queen]

Butters, lol that was funny. I still like when he says that he'll throw her in the lake if she apologizes one more time. That was funny. I CAN'T THINK OF WORDS TO DESCRIBE IT! I WANT TO SAY EXCELLENT BUT THAT ISN'T IT. ITS FAR BETTER THAN THAT. Perfect job Zin!

[BorderWolf]

Zin, I also liked the part where the dogs were looking at Jack and Elpitha now and then. I thought of a humorous idea, that the dogs were saying to each other, "about time, we might have needed to go so far as to tie then up with our leashes when they take us to the city".

[zinovia]

first half of chapter 36 is done. one and a half chapters to go! lol

[zinovia]

Elpitha: Chapter 36: Wedding Bells
A/N: I may frighten some of you here. Don’t worry, lol.

“Shhh! Be quiet or they’ll hear us!”

“You’re the one who’s moving around, Elli! Stop shaking the branches!”

“Maybe we shouldn’t be here…”

“Now is not the time to chicken out, Mary!”

“I know, Karen, but this is a private moment… How did you even know that they were going to be here?”

“I was in the back of my father’s store when Jack came in to buy the blue feather. He got the prettiest one! He also told my dad what he was going to do tonight and swore him to secrecy. I made no such promise, though!”

“Quiet, both of you! I hear them coming!”

Jack emerged from the path first, leading Elpitha by the hand. They were in the middle of the woods and stopped before a tree, completely unaware of the three spies hiding only a few trees away behind a large bush. Elpitha smiled at the sight of her tree and scrambled up onto one of the branches easily. It was clear that she had done this many times before and had figured out just the right grips and footholds for climbing. The branch she was on was a large one, broad and sturdy. She leaned against the tree’s trunk, one leg swinging down freely while the other, slightly bent, rested on the branch. Jack smiled up at her.

“Just like old times, eh? How many times did I see you lounging in your tree when we were kids? You’d climb up too high and I’d have to get you down.”

“I can get down on my own, thanks.”

“Come down, then. I want to ask you something.”

“Nah. Don’t feel like it.”

“Come on, babe. Please? For me? It’s really important.”

“Nah, no thanks. I’m comfortable up here.”

“Get down here!” Jack laughed, grabbing at her leg. Elpitha laughed as well and scrambled up the branches so that she was out of his reach. She stuck her tongue out at him. Jack sighed. “Can you even get down from where you are now?”

Elpitha smirked. “Of course I can! I… “ She looked down. “I… I’ll try in about a month or so.” She wrapped her arms around the tree trunk and held on for dear life.

“Here we go again. Come on. You can make it. Just focus on what you have to do and don’t look down.” Jack said, exasperated.

“No… no, that’s fine. I like it up here. It’ll make a nice home. They’ll call me Sheera, Tree Woman.” Elpitha replied shakily, her eyes shut tight.

“I’m coming up.”

“No! We’ll both fall!”

“Just stay put and relax. Keep your eyes closed if it helps.” Jack said. He pulled himself up to the first branch and, from there, up to where Elpitha stood. “Don’t open your eyes. Just put your arms around my neck.” Jack said. Elpitha complied, shakily. He carried her piggy-back down to the ground and then set her on her feet. “There, now. All safe.” He said smiling.

Elpitha opened her eyes. “Yeah, well… I still could have gotten down myself!” She said. She heard rustling and eyed the bushes behind Jack’s back suspiciously.

Jack ignored her remark and smiled. “Are you happy with me, Elpitha?” He asked suddenly.

Elpitha blinked. “What’s the matter with you? You’re going all… funny!” She said, flushing.

“Please answer me.” Jack replied.

Elpitha sighed. “Yes, Jack. I’m very happy with you.”

“Do you want this to last for always?”

Elpitha’s heart began to race. She knew where this was going. “Y-yes…” She stammered.

Jack removed a blue feather from his bag. “Well, then, it’s a good thing I happen to have one of these for you… that is… if… if you’ll accept it…” He said softly.

Elpitha blanched. “Oh, Jack… I… wow… this is so…” She stopped and stared. Three heads had popped out of the bushes behind Jack.

It was Elli, Mary, and Karen. Mary had her hands clasped over her mouth. Karen was dragging her index finger across her throat and glaring threateningly. Elli shook her fist menacingly. Elpitha looked back at Jack.

“Yes…” She whispered. “Yes, I’ll Marry you.” She laughed. “Gimme that!” Elpitha snatched the feather out of Jack’s hands. “And let’s go back to your place. This forest has eyes.”

A little while later, Jack and Elpitha sat on the floor in front of Jack’s fire place. It was early spring, and there was still a chill in the air, especially at night. Jack had his arms around Elpitha, and she was cuddled against his chest, watching the fire as it crackled and spit sparks into the air. Elpitha glanced down at Jack’s hand as it rested on her stomach. It was a bear claw in comparison to her own hands. She took it and held her hand against it, so that the difference in size was even more apparent. Jack smiled and slipped his hand down so that his fingertips met hers. His fingers fell through hers, and he clasped her hand as he leaned down to kiss her.

“Madam! Madam, please! Put me down!” A short, pointy-nosed waiter cried as Karen shook him so hard that his feet left the ground.

“Now you listen to me, you penguin-suited dwarf! You better find it and find it quick, or I’m gonna find the biggest deep fryer in this town and make me some Kentucky fried midget!” Karen cried angrily, dropping the waiter. She was in her wedding gown and would have looked absolutely stunning if it weren’t for the fact that she was breathing fire. “Mom! Mom! Where’s my mother! Look at this mess we’ve got ourselves into now! Who’s idea was it to let the Gourmet cater my wedding? I swear, if I find him, I’m gonna kick him right in his fat ass!”

“Karen! Watch your language!” Sasha scolded, appearing finally. They were in the square, which was decorated for the reception of Karen’s wedding. Waiters in tuxedos dashed around, setting the tables and bringing out covered food trays. “You should be at the church already! What are you doing here? Stop stomping around like a fire breathing dragon! It’s not lady-like!”

“Lady-like? You know that wedding cake you made for me? With the five tiers and all the intricate icing designs?” Karen asked, forcing herself to be calm.

“Of course, dear. It was the least I could do for my darling daughter’s wedding!” Sasha replied, her eyes getting misty.

“They lost it.”

Sasha’s face turned red. “I’ll kill the bastards!”

The Gourmet happened to appear at that moment, and both women pounced on him.

“The cake! What happened to the cake!”

“You better find it, or you’re gonna be prying my high heel out of your…”

“Karen, quiet! Listen, you! I want my cake or I’ll…”

“Not to vorry, Madams. Your cake eez on its vay.” The Gourmet cut in, pompously. Behind him, four waiters wheeled in a gorgeous cake with a tiny groom and bride on the top. “Vee only kept it out of zee vay for safe keeping.”

Karen sighed a breath of relief and Sasha put a hand on her shoulder. “Don’t worry, dear. I’m sure nothing else can possibly go wrong.”

At that moment, Stu came dashing into the square. “Sasha! Karen! Come quick! Duke’s wig is on fire!” He cried.

“What! How on earth did that happen?” Sasha cried.

“He sat too close to one of those candles on the aisles.”

“Oh, Karen, I told you those candles weren’t a good idea!”

“Oh, be quiet and hand me that pitcher of water!”

Ah hour and two gallons of water later, Karen stood outside the church doors, ready to walk down the aisle towards her new life.

Now it was two weeks later, and it was Mary who stood outside the church doors while her mother fussed over her and her dress. Inside the church, Gray stood up front next to Carter. He looked pale, but excited. Behind Gray stood Saibara who grumbled at him to stand up straight. Basil gave his daughter away to Gray’s waiting arm, stepping back afterwards to stand with his wife, who stood dabbing at her eyes with a handkerchief. After they said their vows, they kissed for the first time as man and wife, Gray blushing furiously. They turned and ran down the aisle, avoiding the shower of rice being thrown at them from all sides.

Another two weeks had passed, and it was Kai and Popuri who ran down the aisle, out the door, and towards the square, the rest of the town following for the reception. The night passed by in an instant, and Kai and Popuri found themselves walking hand-in-hand down the beach towards their new home. Suddenly Kai picked Popuri up and ran with her towards the door.

“Come on, babe. I’m gonna carry you over the threshold!” He laughed.

The door creaked open, allowing rays of moonlight to seep into the room. A figure stood in the doorway, someone in his arms. He walked into the house and placed her down. The door swung shut behind them. Two more weeks had passed, and Jack and Elpitha surveyed their home, for the first time as husband and wife. The windows were open, and Elpitha sniffed at the cool fall air as it entered her new home. She could hear the breeze outside gently brushing against the house.

“It was a fall night like this when we met again after so long…” She whispered, turning to face Jack. “Listen… the crickets are singing again!” She ran to the window and peered outside.

Jack walked up behind her and put his arms around her. “I remember it well.” He replied. “It’s when I fell in love with you all over again.”

Elpitha smiled. “Lay off! It’s our wedding night. You’re pretty much guaranteed to score!” She laughed.

Jack laughed as well and hugged her tighter.

Forty-five days later, the honeymoon was definitely over. Elpitha and Jack had been fighting nonstop for about two weeks straight. It was getting to the point where Elpitha was spending as much time away from home as possible. She had locked Jack out of the bedroom and was avoiding him altogether. Jack, on the other hand, had a much different way of expressing his anger. He hounded Elpitha every chance he got, trying to force her to face him. He respected her wish to sleep alone, but every morning he waited for her at the breakfast table, ready to pick up where they had left off the night before. It was no different on this cold, winter morning. The atmosphere was frosty despite the fire crackling steadily in the fireplace. Jack sat at the table as usual, watching Elpitha pace.

“I thought you had outgrown this…” He sighed. “I am tired of having this argument, Elpitha.”

“Tired? Tired! You’re the one who keeps bringing it up! You’re the one who won’t let it die!” Elpitha cried, spinning around to face him. She placed a hand on each corner of the table and leaned forwards towards Jack. “Do you have any idea how horrible it’s been around here? I’m afraid to come home!”

Jack stood up, pointing a finger at her angrily. “Don’t you dare put all the blame on me! There wouldn’t even be an argument if you weren’t so stubborn!” He slammed his fist on the table and the whole house shook. Spike and Mikri hid under the couch. “I’ve had it, Elpitha! I’ve reached my limit!” His voice thundered through the house, a rough growl to it that sent a shiver down Elpitha’s spine. Her eyes glistened as tears began to form.

Jack wanted to take her into his arms. Everything inside of him wanted to comfort her and promise her that he didn’t mean it and that he would never frighten her again. However, he kept his face set and continued to stare her down. He had to remain firm. He couldn’t let his guard down. Elpitha took a shuddering breath.

“I’m not…” She began, but she turned suddenly and ran into the bathroom.

Jack could hear her vomiting violently. He sat down at the table and put his face in his hands. Some time passed after Elpitha had finished throwing up, and she had not returned. Jack had begun to worry when the sound of her sobbing softly reached his ears. He stood up and walked into the bathroom.

Elpitha was sitting on the floor next to the toilet, her back against the wall. Her knees were drawn up and she was sobbing into them. Jack crouched down and rubbed her back soothingly.

“Are you finished? Are you ready to get up?” He asked gently.

Elpitha turned suddenly and sobbed into his shoulder. “It hurts…” She said softly. “Why won’t it stop? Why does it keep happening?”

Jack didn’t respond. He helped her up and over to the sink. He splashed cold water on her face and helped her to rinse out her mouth with mouth wash. After drying her face, he picked her up and carried her over to the couch where he sat down with her on his lap. She felt weak, and for a moment he felt as if he would join her in her tears.

When Elpitha woke up, she was alone on the couch, a blanket draped over her. She sat up and met Jack’s eyes. He was sitting across the room, staring at her. He stood up when they locked eyes and walked over to her with a plate of toast and some tea. Elpitha didn’t touch it.

“Still not hungry?” He asked.

“I don’t know what it is, Jack. I just can’t stand the sight of food lately.” Elpitha replied.

Jack sat on the coffee table and faced her. “I was thinking a lot while you slept. This has gone on long enough, and you’re right. It is my fault. I should have taken action long ago instead of letting you neglect yourself.”

Elpitha was tired of fighting. “We’ve been through this before, Jack. You can’t force me to go to the doctor.”

Jack smiled suddenly as though a thought had just struck him. “Yes. Yes I can.” He said as though wondering why he hadn’t thought of it before. He could kill two birds with one stone.

Elpitha looked at him suspiciously. “How? You… you wouldn’t ever hurt me, so…”

Jack laughed at this. “Hurt you? Come on, babe. I’m having enough trouble keeping you from hurting yourself. No, I have no plans to hurt you. It’ll be easier on you, though, if you just go quietly.” He said. “It’ll probably be easier on me too.” He added with a smirk.

“What the hell are you talking about?” Elpitha asked irritably.

“Will you go to the doctor?”

“I already told you! No!”

“You don’t think I can make you?”

“No!”

“Alright, then. You asked for it.”

Jack stood up and reached out for Elpitha’s hand. She hesitated at first, but took it. When he led her into the bedroom, she pulled him around to face her.

“What do you think you’re going to do?” She asked suspiciously.

“I’m going to see who lasts longer.” He replied slyly, and shut the door.

The next day, Elpitha sat in one of the examination rooms, waiting for Elli to arrive. When she finally did, clipboard in hand, it was all Elpitha could do to keep from jumping out of the nearest window.

Elli smiled as though she could read her mind. “Relax, honey. I’m just going to ask you some questions.”

This didn’t seem to comfort Elpitha any. “Alright.” She replied, nervously.

“I’m surprised you’re even here! How on earth did Jack manage that?”

Elpitha blushed and didn’t answer.

“Alright, then just tell me what your symptoms are.” Elli laughed.

“For the past two weeks I haven’t been able to eat. I keep throwing everything up. I feel weak and tired and just sick in general. I thought it would pass, but it won’t go away.”

“How often do you vomit?”

“It’s weird. It’s mainly in the morning and even though the rest of the day I’m pretty OK, I can’t stand the sight of food, not even my favorites.”

For some reason Elli was smirking behind her clipboard as she scribbled. “I see… Alright, missy, I’ll get the doctor. Why don’t you change into that hospital gown and get comfortable over there.” She pointed to what looked like a hospital bed with a metal contraption at the end. It looked as though Elpitha’s legs were supposed to go in it, and that if she was lying in that bed with nothing but the hospital gown on…

“Um… Elli?”

“What, baby?”

“I’m supposed to sit there… with my legs like that… and I’m not supposed to be wearing anything underneath that gown?”

“You got it.”

“Why?”

The doctor jumped as he came down the stairs from his office.

“HE’S GOING TO LOOK WHERE!”

Half an hour later, Elpitha sat in the waiting room, her legs firmly crossed, and waited for the results of her exam. Finally, the doctor and Elli emerged from the examination room. The doctor gave Elpitha a rare smile as he climbed the stairs back up to his office. Elli, grinning from ear to ear, took a seat next to her with the clipboard.

“So what do I got? What form of torture are you going to use on me to cure it?” Elpitha asked glumly.

“Take it easy, don’t do any strenuous work or lifting, and call us in about two seasons.” Elli replied.

Elpitha stared. “What?”

“You’re going to have a baby!” Elli laughed.

“A baby!” Elpitha cried.

“Yes! The baby is having a baby.” Elli replied. “Where’s Jack? I’m surprised he didn’t come with you.”

“He wanted to, but I said I didn’t want him here. I was still mad about coming…” Elpitha replied.

Elli laughed once more. “Stubborn as always. I think we’re going to be giving birth within a season of each other.” She said, rubbing her belly.

At that moment, Jack entered the clinic. He looked anxious and walked over to Elpitha, taking a seat on her other side and drawing her closer to him with an arm.

“You didn’t have to…” Elpitha began.

“Yes I did.” Jack said, cutting her off. Then he turned to Elli. “What is it? Will she be alright?”

“Oh come off it!” Elpitha cried, cutting off Elli before she could answer. “I told you I didn’t want you to come! You are such a…”

Jack put his hand over her mouth. “Listen to me, you little brat! I knew damn well that you needed me here and the only reason I didn’t come was to teach you a lesson for being so damn stubborn and not admitting it. I wouldn’t have come at all if I wasn’t so worried.”

At first it looked as though Elpitha was going to explode. Then she sniffled. Finally, she burst into tears and shoved Jack away from her. Jack’s mouth dropped open. He reached out to comfort her, but she shoved his hand away. Jack leaned over towards Elli.

“It must be really bad. She never cries, and she’s done it quite a few times over the past couple of weeks.” He whispered. “I don’t know if she’s in too much pain or if she feels herself getting weaker. Is she… is she gonna make it?”

Elli swallowed the urge to laugh in his face. “I think Elpitha should be the one to tell you.” Elli replied, keeping her face grave and standing up to make her way gingerly up the stairs. “Elpitha with hormones…” She thought bemusedly. “May the Harvest Goddess save us all!”

Jack walked over to where Elpitha stood, still sobbing, her back turned determinedly away from him. He placed his arms around her, but she shook him off dramatically. Under normal circumstances, he would have picked her up, pinned her on the ground, and tickled her into submission. However, considering the circumstances, he decided to play along. He made his way around her and put his hands on her shoulders so that she couldn’t turn away again.

“Honey?” He asked sweetly. “Baby? What’s wrong?”

Elpitha sniffled and refused to meet his eyes.

“Awww, come on… I’m sorry I upset you. I just want to find out what’s wrong. Please tell me…” He said gently. “Won’t you tell my why you’re sad?”

“Because you’re a stupid jerk!” Elpitha sniffled irritably. “And it’s YOUR baby inside me which means IT will be a stupid jerk too!”

Jack nearly keeled over.

Until next time…

[BorderWolf]

LOL, great chapter Zin!

*applaudes*

*exalts*

[Herfefiny]

lol
That was the cutest shapter in the world! (I knew ELphita was pregnate al along #shifty#) It was so cute I almost cried! ;D GREAT JOB ZIN!!!!!!

[Limegreen Queen]

I'm so sad only one chapter left! That was a really good chapter Zin!

[Butters not logged in]

Great chapter Zin!

[zinovia]

alrighty, so let me see a show of hands here. who prefers a longer final chapter and who a shorter? it's all the same to me. I've written 1,300 words so far, which is almost half of a normal sized chapter.