---
Kai paused, taking a breather, then continued, "No essence liquid baths. Light training is fine. I will keep you warm at night. My instincts say my time near you helps the little ones grow steady. If you want it and feel well, being close as mates will help too."
Luna's lips parted. She let two quiet tears slide and shine in the lamplight. A short laugh escaped her, shaky and full.
"Twins," she whispered. "I asked the world for one. It gave me two."
Kai crossed the room and drew her against him. She set her head under his chin, and they swayed a little, as if the floor were a boat and the sea very gentle.
"I will be with you at dawn and at night," he said. "Between drills and maps. If the wind wakes you, I will move the bed. If a smell turns wrong, I will bring mint. When they push your hand from inside, I will be there to feel it."
She laughed for real. "You talk like a man who has done this twice."
