Storm Trials: Chapter Nine

And the third Jewel arrives!

CHAPTER NINE: SONG MAIDEN

“We have an announcement,” Esben said the next night at dinner.

Artham glanced up from his meal. “What?”

Nia and Esben exchanged a glance. Artham’s face changed a little. “Are you serious?”

Nia just smiled, while everyone else was oblivious. “Yes. We’re gonna have another baby!”

A chorus of happiness rang out across the table. Janner and Kalmar had to have it re-explained, but when they finally did sort of understand, they were just as happy as the rest of them. The whole night was spent in happy rejoicing.

The topic of the new baby was carried into the rest of the evening when the family was having their discussion in the sitting room.

“We hope it’s a girl, so we can have a Song Maiden,” Esben said, grinning.

“Have you thought of a name, dearie?” Wendolyn asked.

Esben and Nia nodded. “We like the name Romy. Or Leeli. If it’s a boy, however, we’re thinking Rastlen.

Artham and Ari exchanged a glance. That would be an awkward situation, and one that might need to be cleared up. But could they risk that?

As the evening proceeded, talking of hopes for this Song Maiden, Artham was quiet and distant. Esben was oblivious as he rattled on about how happy he was for his new baby.

Artham had his eyes fixed upon that old chair where Emerald should be sitting…should be a part of this family…but she wasn’t. It stung him and filled him with rage for a moment, and he was only brought back to the conversation when Podo asked him a question.

“Wha-what did you say?” Artham asked.

Podo looked annoyed. “I asked if you would rather a boy or girl Song Master?”

“Uh…I have no preference, just ask that he or she be healthy.” He smiled as best he could, then quickly started talking pleasantly to Esben.

Some sadness, some fluff, some love, al lovely!! Hope you like! let me know if anything seems weird or wonky! Also the tagging isn't working so I'll try to do it in the comments!! 😭