Elián
The room grows quiet after Zephan leaves.
The mark on my wrist has settled now, the serpent and moonflowers wrapped around my skin like a living bracelet.
I lift my hand, turning it slowly in the light. The mark hums faintly beneath my skin.
Warm and steady.
I feel Zephan's magic. Flow through me as I run my fingers along the serpent's body, tracing the delicate curve of its coils.
"It's beautiful," I whisper to myself as I enjoy the peacefulness of the moment, and just then, the baby moves.
It's a sudden jolt that pushes hard against the inside of my stomach, and I inhale sharply in response.
"That's new." I breathe through the pain as I look down at my stomach.
Another kick follows immediately.
It's so strong, my hand flies up to my stomach instinctively.
"Hey," I call in alarm, and the baby shifts again under my palm, restless and impatient.
This is not the… once in a while sleepy rolling I've grown used to.
This feels deliberate.
…Demanding.
