Coming right up, Nonny-Mouse. I love that kid!
Side note: Shio’s nephew Masanori is featured extensively in @hamliet’s fanfic “The (Mis)Adventures of GOAT.” I’m, er, borrowing her character (with permission) for this!
“Where is he?” Shio bursts in the door to the hospital room where Hairu and Ui and their child are staying. “My nephew!”
Hirako dashes up behind him, flanked by Rikai and Yusa.
“Can he be our nephew, too?” Rikai asks.
“No! He’s an Ihei!” Shio crosses his arms as he flounces towards the bed.
“His name is Masanori,” Hairu says with pride. “Masanori Kishou Ui.”
“He has your hair!” Shio takes the bundle so quickly Ui nearly has a panic attack. He rubs the pink fuzz on the baby’s head and giggles. “I’m gonna be the best uncle ever, aren’t I, Hirako?”
“Undoubtedly,” Hirako says, exchanging a smirk with Ui.
“I love him. He’s perfect.” Shio kisses the baby’s nose. It whimpers.
“What does that mean?” Shio asks nervously.
“I don’t know!” Ui looks at Hairu, his face white.
“It means he’s dreaming,” Hairu says with a sleepy smile.
“Hopefully he’s dreaming of the future. When his best Uncle gives him the most fantastic playdate he’ll ever have.” Shio is clearly planning this, years in advance.
“Love you, Masanori.” Shio reluctantly hands the baby back to Hairu.
He saves his questions for after they leave the hospital. “Hirako, how did Hairu and Ui make a baby?”
Mercy and Magic 