Hush little baby

Anaisa startled at Ewan's cry. It was louder than any sound he'd made before. Stronger.

Deborah's eyes widened, and Trace seemed on edge.

The doctor stopped, and the hum faded from the air as everyone listened to the weeks-old infant's cries.

"Is he all right?" Trace asked desperately.

Seemingly in response, Ewan wriggled, moving his head and even lifting it slightly in the doctor's arms.

"He seems stronger. Certainly his lungs must be healthier," The wet nurse observed when the boy's cries became louder.

Anaisa had to agree. Ewan's week mewling cries were nothing compared to the sound he was making now, even accounting for the echoes of the cavern intensifying the noise.

The baby turned his head and rooted, and the doctor handed the baby to Deborah with a knitted brow.