Broken Antler Fen Thistle of Lorraine

Expecting to be chastised by her aunt, Ibis is shocked by how easily she accepted the news. There is a thrilling glow to Wraen after, as if she is excited rather than dismayed. Ibis feels a flood of relief.

Until Wraen asks after the father - and Ibis thinks of the two men, one practically a boy, she had taken to bed. Then she is thinking of her lost husband and her hormones kick in; Ibis' eyes collect a sheen of unwashed tears.

I don't know. It all kind of... happened. The father, who ever they are, is not going to be part of their life. Ibis struggles through the words and sucks in a breath. My children will never know a father. I don't think Akavir is ever coming back. W-what do I do?