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I looked to the midwives. "Is everything proceeding as it should?"

Elowen gave a reassuring nod. "She's strong. The baby is coming."

I took a deep breath, emotions swirling within me.

Just then, Acacia gasped sharply. "Thornix!"

"I'm right here."

She clung to me, her face etched with effort.

Kira's eyes met mine. "It's time."

My heart pounded. I steadied myself, all senses focused on Acacia.

"You're almost there," Elowen encouraged.

Acacia drew upon reserves of strength, pushing forward.

The room seemed to hold its breath.

But before anything more could happen, a sudden gust of wind blew through, extinguishing the candles.

The room plunged into semi-darkness.

"What was that?" Acacia whispered, alarmed.

Elowen moved to relight the candles. "Sometimes, nature answers in unexpected ways."

Kira spoke calmly. "It's alright. Focus on your breathing."

I felt a chill run down my spine but pushed it aside. "We're with you."

Acacia nodded, gripping my hand once more.

The atmosphere shifted, tension building.

And as the first light of dawn peeked through the leaves, we braced ourselves for what was to come.

Fourteen

Acacia

The warm glow of dusk bathed the forest in hues of gold and amber. I leaned against the ancient roots of the sacred tree, breaths coming in quick bursts. The earthy scent of moss and blooming flowers filled the air, mingling with the crisp aroma of pine. Sweat trickled down my forehead, and I clenched Thornix's hand tightly.

"You're strong, Acacia," he whispered, his voice steady yet laced with concern. His eyes, shimmering with that ethereal light, met mine. They grounded me.

A sharp pain coursed through me, more intense than the last. I bit my lip, stifling a cry. The world seemed to narrow to this single moment, the rhythm of my heartbeat, the grip of Thornix's hand, the life stirring within me.

"Focus on your breathing," he said softly, brushing a stray hair from my face. His touch sent a comforting warmth through me.

I nodded, inhaling deeply. The scent of the forest filled my lungs, calming yet invigorating. "I can do this," I murmured, more to myself than to him.

Another contraction hit, and I squeezed my eyes shut. "The baby's coming," I gasped.

Thornix moved closer, his presence a steady anchor. "I'm here."

With one final, determined push, a cry pierced the tranquil silence of the woods. Tears blurred my vision as Thornix gently lifted our son, awe etched across his features.