Page 138

It was a promise he had once broken without understanding it. He would not break it again.

The first child was born shortly after.

A boy emerged with a furious cry, red-faced and indignant, his tiny fists clenched against the world. Fae collapsed against the pillows, weeping with relief.

Blaidd stared for a moment, the enormous, battle-hardened wolf incapable of speech.

"Oh," Fae whispered.

His hair was dark and damp against his little head.

"He has your scowl."

Myra laughed through her tears.

The second baby was not coming easily.

The midwife gave quiet instructions, and suddenly the room was moving again. Fae barely had the strength to lift her head.

"I can't," she whispered.

Blaidd leaned over her.

"Yes, you can."

"I'm so tired."

"I know."

"I can't do it again."

He pressed his forehead to hers.

"Listen to me, Fae. You've carried them all these months. You've given them everything. Just a little longer, my love."

She shook her head, tears slipping into her hair.

"Lisna."

Her sister was there at once and took her other hand. Another contraction came. The midwife urged her to push. And with her husband holding one hand and her twin holding the other, Fae found the last of her strength. Their daughter arrived a few minutes later. For one terrible instant, she made no sound.

The midwife worked quickly, rubbing the tiny body, clearing her airway.

Then came a cry. Blaidd sank to his knees offering silent thanks to the Goddess.

***

They named their son Kjenn, a northern variation of Kenji. Their daughter was Eika, inspired by Aiko, who had welcomed Fae into her heart.

Kjenn and Eika.

Kjenn's tiny hand was curled against his chest. Eika slept with her mouth slightly open, her dark lashes resting against her cheeks. Fae woke to the sound of a baby fussing.She opened her eyes and found Blaidd walking slowly around the room, Eika tucked against his shoulder.

Kjenn slept in his cradle.

"Give her to me," Fae murmured.

Blaidd turned.