Forever

Winter was particularly harsh that year in Chemois as snow drifts piled halfway up the Duke's Tower. Henry permitted his knights to stay away for longer than normal considering how dangerous it would be to travel. 

However, there wasn't much rest to be had despite it being the season of hibernation. 

The further along Irene was in her pregnancy, the more restless she became. Even though all the preparations were in place, she still couldn't sit comfortably. 

Since movement felt good, strangely enough, she and Henry often sparred with wooden practice swords before they went to sleep. While Henry wouldn't even come close to striking her, it was nice to connect with her on that level for the first time in months. 

During one of these evening sessions, Irene stared at her husband in shock as water fell from between her legs. 

It was time. There was no going back.