“Push, Your Majesty, push harder!”
Arina’s scream echoed through the room as her fingers dug into the sheets, and she pushed again, throwing her head back. Raena squeezed her other hand, trying to give her some of her strength and courage. It had been hours since the birth started. Raena had been through two births herself, but she couldn’t remember ever screaming as much. Even though all she did was sit by Arina’s side and wipe her forehead between contractions, her hands were shaking, and her body was covered in a cold sweat.
The room grew uncharacteristically quiet, and Raena looked at the midwife kneeling between Arina’s legs. The doctor was present in case other emergencies arose, and he was watching the birth with growing concern. Both of their faces looked dark and uneasy as Raena
