We return to the citadel the next morning, much earlier than I wanted to. The only bright moment is the sound of small feet running through the cavernous hallways before Che barrels into me. I give him a huge hug after twirling around.

He giggles and smiles proudly. "My brother should be born soon. Axel says within three days." He holds up three small fingers and my grin widens.

I wipe tears from my eyes and squat down to his level. His cheeks are rosy red, his eyes ...