Page 55 of Claimed By the Krijese

Surprisingly, I do not think that will be necessary. Over the last sun cycle, our kills have grown with each hunt. We even made it through the cold season with plenty of food still left in the stores. Even more wonderful, Ashrif survived and while he is still weak, I have noticed that he has gained some of his strength back. I do not know what the cause of our good fortune is, but Sorin is certain it is from the prayer he made to our god. Perhaps it is.

We make it in good time down the winding descent and, like always, I pause at the opening to scent for danger. Once I am certain there is none, we step out into the bari field.

“Run ahead and let the Tavikhi scout know we are coming and will be there soon.”

Sorin does as I say and rushes through the bari that is no longer quite as tall compared to him. Over the cold season, our kit experienced a what his momo called a growth spurt. His leg coverings became too short and tight for him and he had to borrow several pairs from the chest within the storage tent. Instead of only his head visible, half of his chest is as well. It is hard to imagine my kit growing so.

“You can slow down a little, you know.” Iris chuckles softly and then sucks in a sharp breath. Her hold on me tightens and her body goes rigid.

“It is obvious I cannot, because you are in pain.”

A few beats pass and she relaxes. “It’s normal for contractions to hurt. Nothing unusual is happening. They come and go, and they’re still far enough apart that I’m not going to give birth before we reach the Tavikhi village.”

“I cannot help my fear and worry.”

Iris sighs and strokes my head. “I know you can’t, and I’m sorry if you don’t think I’m taking either of them seriously enough. If it makes you feel any better, I’m scared too. This is my first baby and yes, it’s nerve-wracking. I’m trying to be so positive is because we both can’t freak out. I wish I could rid us both of our fears.”

I nuzzle her cheek with mine, taking care not to graze her with my mouth claw. “I would carry your fears as well as my own.”

“You know I love you more than anything, don’t you?”

“As I do you.” The first time my sweeney said the words, I had stopped breathing. I had never thought to hear them from anyone, but from Iris they were worth everything.

We finally make it across the length of the bari field and into the grove of trees where Sorin and the Tavikhi scout wait.

“I have signaled ahead that you are nearby,” Katem says and fists his chest. “Congratulations on the arrival of your kit.”

“Thank you.” Iris smiles at him before she winces in pain.

Sorin fists his own chest since I cannot with my mate in my arms, and we take off again in the direction of the Tavikhi village where the calls of mellenje lead our path. At last there is a break in the trees and before us is the front entrance where two guards straighten to attention.

“Greetings, Kala, Iris, and your kit. Blessings on the upcoming birth. I will pray to Deeka for a healthy kit.” One fists his chest and gestures for us to pass through.

“You have our thanks.” I nod, although his words strike more fear in my hearts.

We do not get far into the village when Iris pats me. “I can walk from here. Sage said it’ll do me good to move around. It helps with situating the baby farther down in the birth canal.”

I hesitate before carefully setting her on her feet. I do not go far, but rather, remain close at her side in case she needs me. Sorin brackets her other side. Between the two of us, we will make sure she safely reaches the healer’s tent. Tavikhi and humans observe us as we make our way through the village. Voices carry on the air of our arrival.

Soon, Zander and London approach.

“You honor us with the birth of your kit within our village borders,” the shefir announces. “This night we will celebrate around the fire the newest member of your tribe.”

“Thank you, Shefir.” Iris fists her chest.

Sorin and I do the same.

“Sage is ready for you.” London walks with us while Zander departs, perhaps to announce our arrival.

“I’m more than ready for her.” My mate laughs and the sweet sound is a soothing balm.

At last, we reach the healer’s tent. Just as London moves to part the flap, Healer Sage steps out.

“How are you feeling?”

“Like I’m about to give birth.”

The Shefira and the healer both grin broadly.

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