(As I sat there in my room, I began to work on a drawing of some of my fellow club members as dragons - Sayori as a Sentinel, Yuri as a Deathgripper, Monika as a Night Fury, Sucrose as a Timberjack, Collei as a Snaptrapper, Himari as a Changewing, Kohana as a Whispering Death, and I even included my true Stormcutter form as a Titan-Wing. That’s when I heard someone - it was my “dad”. Of course, he isn’t really my dad - I just call him that. His real name is Masao.)

Masao: “Natsuki, can I talk with you for a moment?”

(I quickly ran downstairs, ignoring the fact my Stormcutter form’s tail is still visible.)

Natsuki: “Sure, what’s up?”

Masao: “I just wanted to check on how you’re doing. I know school and the club have been keeping you busy, and I want to make sure you’re taking care of yourself.”

Natsuki: “Oh, yeah, I’m doing okay. Thanks for checking in.”

Masao: “Good to hear. And I have to say, that drawing you’re working on is looking really impressive. You’re really talented.”

Natsuki: “Thanks, Masao. I’m trying my best.”

Masao: “Well, keep it up. And if you ever need to talk or if anything is bothering you, don’t hesitate to come to me.”

Natsuki: “I will. Thanks for being there for me, Masao.”

Masao: “Of course, Natsuki. You’re like family to me.”

(I smiled at Masao’s words, grateful for the support system I had in my life. As I turned back to my drawing, I felt a renewed sense of inspiration and motivation to keep creating and pursuing my passions. And as I finally finished the drawing, I suddenly got a phone call - it was from Yuri. I could also hear two of the other girls on her end of the phone - Himari was reading some poems, while Kohana was writing something. But then I could hear Monika screaming in pain - and she was saying things like “It’s too early”, “I’m not due yet”, and “I should have cancelled the meeting today”.)

Natsuki: “Yuri, what’s going on? Is everything okay?”

Yuri: “No, Natsuki. Monika just went into labor.”

Natsuki: “What?! Is she okay? Should we call for an ambulance?”

Yuri: “We already did, but the nearest hospital is quite far. We’re trying to keep her calm. Can you come over and help us in the meantime?”

Natsuki: “Of course! I’ll be there as fast as I can.”

(I quickly packed up my drawing supplies and ran out of the house, my heart racing with worry for my friend. I made it to the club room in record time and found the girls gathered around Monika, who was lying on the floor, sweat pouring down her face.)

Natsuki: “Monika! Are you okay? What can I do to help?”

Monika: “Natsuki, thank goodness you’re here. I don’t think I can do this alone.”

Himari: “I’ve been reading her some calming poetry, but she’s still in a lot of pain.”

Kohana: “And I’ve been trying to write a message to the hospital, but the reception is really bad in here.”

Natsuki: “Okay, hang on. Let me see what I can do.”

(I whipped out my phone and started Googling birthing tips and tricks. Within minutes, I was able to find some information that could help Monika through the delivery process.)

Natsuki: “Monika, try taking deep breaths and focusing on something calming. Maybe listen to some music or focus on a particular spot on the wall.”

Monika: (gasping for breath) “Okay… okay…”

(I could see that Monika was struggling, but she was doing her best to stay calm. I held her hand and talked her through each contraction, telling her that she was strong and that she could do this.)

Himari: “That’s it, Monika. Just keep breathing…”

Kohana: “I managed to send the message! An ambulance is on its way!”