The sky darkened with thick clouds, and cold rain began to fall, soaking the cracked ground around the hut.
Inside, the woman paced back and forth. Her steps echoed softly on the wooden floor, matching the steady pulse she felt deep inside her belly.
The child moved more now—strong and sure, like it was testing the limits.
She looked out through the small window. Figures stood just beyond the trees, watching, waiting.
The ground trembled slightly, a low vibration that made the walls creak.
The crow stirred, its feathers bristling.
Suddenly, a nearby tree cracked and crashed down, shaking the earth beneath her feet.
She pressed a hand to her stomach, steadying herself.
The whisper returned, cold and clear.
"It is time."
Her jaw tightened. Fear and determination mixed inside her.
Outside, the storm grew louder. Thunder rolled across the sky.
Inside, the child moved with a strong, steady beat — a signal that something was coming.