Redeeming Kahlan

Chapter 3

Kahlan

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow over the chamber. I sat up in bed, feeling an unusual sense of discomfort that seemed to gnaw at my insides. As expected, Desiree stood at my bedside. I always thought the morning version of Desiree was annoying.

"Good morning, sleepyhead," Desiree said, all smiles as usual. *How are you feeling today?"

"To be honest, I don't feel too well this morning," I said, wrinkling my forehead. "My stomach feels unsettled, and I have a strange headache."

Desiree immediately sat down in concern. "Oh dear, what's it feeling like? It certainly cannot be as bad as your first night here," she said, chuckling.

I could only reciprocate with a weak smile. "Time has flown by, hasn't it? I can't believe it's been five months since that fateful day."

Desiree looked at me admiringly and said, "Indeed, my dear, you've grown so much in these years. And I must say, you've faced your demons with grace and strength."

"I couldn't have done it without you," I said, blushing. "And by demons, I hope the Alpha King tops the list."

We both burst out laughing.

"You've become like a daughter to me, Kahlan. Your presence has brought so much joy and light to this palace, even though it's no brighter than a candle."

I began rubbing my forehead. "I'm truly grateful for all you do, Desiree. I think this might just be a minor case."

"Well, you know, sometimes these symptoms could be a sign of something else."

"Something else?" I asked curiously.

Desiree added in barely above a whisper, "Perhaps... a pregnancy?"

"Oh, Desiree, you always have a way of seeing things that aren't there," I said, waving my hands dismissively. It's probably just a mild illness. It'll pass"

"Perhaps. But just to be sure, I'll send for the Maester. It's better to rule out anything serious."

"Alright, if it'll ease your mind, But I'm sure it's nothing." I agreed reluctantly.

"Better safe than sorry, my dear. You know I only want the best for you," Desiree said, patting my head.

As Desiree left to summon the Maester, I couldn't help but reflect on my journey since my first night here. But then again, what if Desiree was onto something? The possibility of another life growing within me both excites and scares me.

The sound of footsteps echoed through the chamber as Desiree returned with the Maester in tow. I shifted uneasily on the plush cushions, feeling a mix of curiosity and apprehension about the examination.

"Good morning, your grace," he said with a gentle smile. Desiree informed me that you're not feeling well. Let's see if we can figure out what's up."

"Good morning, Maester. I've been feeling a bit off today, with a headache and an unsettled stomach."

"I see. Just a few questions. Have you been experiencing any other symptoms? Fatigue? dizziness?"

I pondered for a while. "Oh Yes. I have been feeling more tired than usual lately."

"And have there been any changes in your appetite or weight?" the maester asked.

"Well, now that you mention it, I have been eating more than usual," I said guiltily.

"Alright," the maester nodded. "I'll need to examine you to get a better idea. Please lie down."

The maester began his examination, touching my abdomen and checking my pulse and breathing. As he stepped aside to assess his findings, Desiree leaned in with a smile.

"I'm feeling nervous right now. I hope it's nothing serious." I whispered to Desiree.

Changing the subject, Desiree said, "Did you hear about the recent happenings in the nearby village, Kahlan? I heard there was a mysterious visitor last week."

I am always grateful for Desiree. She always knows when to switch conversations. "Oh, really? What happened?"

"Well, they say he wore a cloak of midnight blue and spoke in a tongue no one could understand."

I was intrigued. "How mysterious! Did he cause any trouble?"

"Nahh... Quite the opposite, actually. Some believe he's a wandering healer with magical abilities."

"A healer with magic? That sounds like something out of a tale."

"It does, doesn't it?" Desiree asked. "But many villagers swear by his abilities, claiming he heals ailments they've suffered from for years."

"It's fascinating. I wonder where he comes from and why he travels so far to help others."

"Some say he's on a quest to find someone or something, but no one knows for sure. The village has warmly welcomed him, though."

"It's heartwarming to hear of such kindness in the world," I said, smiling.

The maester returned, his smile growing wider as he looked at me.

"I have good news, your grace," the Maester said, smiling. "After my assessments, I can confirm that you are heavy with children. Congratulations! You're due in 21 weeks."

Desiree was overjoyed. "Oh, Kahlan, this is wonderful news! A child, how marvelous!"

"It is!" I said, laughing incredulously.

My initial joy was soon overshadowed by worry and fear. I couldn't help but think about what the Alpha King's reaction to the news would be. Would he be pleased, or would he view the child as another burden?

"Thank you, Maester. It's... It's unexpected news." I admitted, my voice holding a hint of concern.

"Oh, my dear," Desiree started encouragingly. "I know it might be overwhelming, but you'll find the courage to face this new journey. Think of how happy the Alpha King will be when you tell him!"

I feigned a sigh. "I hope so, Desiree. I just can't help but worry about his reaction."

Desiree placed a reassuring hand on mine. "Be brave, my dear. Embrace this blessing with joy, and I'll always be here to help as best as I can."

I couldn't help but smile. "Thank you, Desiree. What would I do without you?."

"Now, come, let's focus on celebrating this news. We'll worry about the rest later. We'll share the joy with the Alpha King when the time is right."

I was happy with Desiree's reaction. But the Alpha King? Now that is a real worry. I'll just go along with Desiree's joy for now.

"I'll need that joy now," I thought as I nervously approached where the Alpha King sat, his cold gaze fixated on me as I entered the grand hall. The air felt heavy with tension, and my heart pounded within my chest.

"Your Grace, may I have a moment of your time?" I asked softly.

"Speak." His voice was cold, emotionless.

I took a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves, as I continued.

"I have news to share. I am heavy with children."

His stoic expression remained unchanged, but I just felt a glimmer of hope that he would be pleased with the news.

"Is that so?" He asked, his voice colder than before. "You know your purpose here is to bear me an heir. It is expected."

Oh jeez. What was I expecting?

"I thought... I thought you might be happy about it."

"Happiness is a luxury I cannot afford. My emotions are of little consequence."

"I understand, Your Grace," I said, trying to hide my hurt.

He just leaned back into his throne.

"You may leave now. Your presence is no longer required."

My heart sank as she turned to leave the grand hall. I had hoped for even a little warmth—some sign that he cared about the life growing within me. But instead, it was the same cold indifference he had always shown me.

It couldn't get any better, could it?