From The Ashes

Epilogue- Part One

Valen's POV

"Valen."

Small hands gripped my arm tightly and shook. I groaned in response and tried to pull away.

"Valen, wake up. It's important."

I groaned louder and sat up, the thin silk sheet sliding down my bare torso.

"What's wrong?"

I rubbed my eyes and cracked my neck as I glanced over to my beautiful queen.

She was holding her swollen belly tightly and her thin white nightgown was soaked down the front. It took my slumbering brain a moment to realize what was happening.

"Holy shit!" I yelled as I jumped out of the bed and toward Indigo.

I grabbed her free arm and wrapped it around my shoulders to support her weight. She let out a small sigh of relief and leaned heavily into me.

"How long ago did this happen?"

"Not long. I woke up because I had to pee for the seventh time tonight and suddenly there was a pop and a lot of fluid. I think it's time to go now."

"You don't say," I grumbled as I carefully sat her down on the edge of the bed.

"Stay here. I'll get our bags and let the pack doctor know."

Suddenly, Indigo let out a fierce cry of pain and threw her head back. She gripped her mid section tightly and ground her teeth.

"We don't have time to get to the healing lodge. Tell her to come here. Now."

I was stunned for a moment.

"Are you sure?"

"Goddammit Valen, yes I'm sure. Get her here. NOW."

Her eyes flashed gold and I knew she wasn't playing games. My brain was still working at half speed, but I threw on a t shirt and mind linked the pack doctor.

She answered immediately to let me know she'd be there as quickly as possible. There had been an emergency earlier and she was just getting out of surgery. I relayed this information to Indigo.

"She better get here fast," she panted as she clutched her stomach once more.

Beads of sweat began to break out across her forehead.

I sent a quick message to Anton and my brother to let them know it was time. Knowing them, they would show up faster than the doctor.

Indigo screamed in pain as another contraction ripped through her body.

"What can I do?" I pleaded. I had never felt so helpless in all my life.

"Help me up onto the bed."

Her voice was strained and I could tell she was fighting to keep it under control.

I immediately obliged and helped her to the head of the bed. I arranged some pillows behind her back to try and help the pressure I was sure she was feeling.