Tales of Fecundia(Non-Canon) - 'Challenging Gates'
Summary: As Queen Leila of Fecundia goes into labor in the quiet hours of the night, she attempts to distract herself by finalizing the king's upcoming banquet with her husband, Cedric. But as dawn approaches, the distractions fall away, and the Queen must face a grueling trial of childbirth. When the birth stalls and her strength falters, the King and a trusted priest must use an unconventional method to help her deliver their newest heir.
Warnings: MDNI. 18+ only. Contains highly explicit and graphic fictional depictions of pregnancy, prolonged labor, and childbirth. Includes detailed anatomical descriptions, cervical checks, a stalled delivery, and non-sexual breast/nipple stimulation used as a medical intervention to induce contractions. Reader discretion is strongly advised.
---
It all started on one particular moon of the summer - an uneventful night in the capital of Fecundia. The people unaware and it's subjects unaware -
-that the Queen of Fecundia, Leila Veridan, was greatly with child, and soon to deliver. Very soon but also very late in timing.
No one really knows when a pregnant Bearer's time of labor is to come. Only to prepare for its arrival, and what is needed to usher in.
King Cedric slept soundly on the left side of their white linen mattress bed, exhausted from the responsibilities and duties of the day before. He was accustomed to breathing in the sweet scent of his beloved Queen from a close breadth. His arms normally draped over her protectively - one holding her hand and the other, resting on the her swollen belly. Their third addition to the growing Robus house.
Yet his arms and hands would only feel the empty side of the bed on the right, and in his semi-unconscious state Cedric questioned the non-existent presence of warmth. Eagerly his hands searched and felt, for he had no pillow - for she was the king's pillow to cuddle, caress, and nuzzle against. This time - there was none.
The silver-haired king squinted his eyes as it adjusted to the darkness, and he could see from where he laid a dim myriad of lamp lights on one particular corner of their bedchamber, and an encumbered figured sitting by.
The Church says that Mellidone knows when a woman is ready to become a mother; only then does she let commence the trial of delivery. And the goddess had left Queen Leila waiting for a while now... But it seems like she had decided the time for her to bring forth her fourth child had finally come.
Only an hour after going to bed, the Queen felt the familiar squeezes of her labor that was starting. Her belly tightened and firmed up, signaling the internal preparations for the arrival of Fecundia's new heir. This one had taken its sweet time in its mother's womb, enjoying the warmth and comfort before joining its siblings earth-side.
The physicians and midwives would have advised her to stay in bed and try to sleep, to gather as much strength as she could for the impending birth - and it would be sound advice. But the early pains made Leila restless and excited, and despite the warmth of her husband's body next to hers, sleep wouldn't come. She was distracted, her mind occupied by all the thoughts racing through it. Sleep wouldn't come, and she couldn't force it. But there was one thing that always worked for her...
The awakened king would find his wife sitting at the work desk of their quarters, a bright lamp shining its light over the scrolls and papers spread over the wooden surface. Her curls were tied back, and her deep blue cotton robe kept her warm. In her slender fingers, a quill pen danced over the parchment, soft scratching sounds filling the silence of the room. The preparations for the royal banquet would keep her busy; there was much to be done before the king's birthday celebrations.
She turned to him, and greeted him with a smile. Her features showed no signs of distress or pain; they were soft and calm, ever graceful.
"The time has come," she whispered to Cedric as he came closer, one hand on her pregnant belly. She knew he'd know. "I could not sleep. So, I'm keeping my mind occupied."
Cedric's eyes briefly squinted before her words settled onto his mind in full realization - that she has felt it and yes, it was today. The king's eyes widened as he quickly sat up in their bed, rubbing his eyes, before looking to the window. The light of dawn, has not yet come. Then again, Robus children of Leila's womb hardly knew when to arrive on time. They arrive precisely the moment they desire to do so. The king chuckled at the thought before getting out of bed and walking short towards his beloved fecund queen.
"Hardly the first time our little ones have ever arrived on schedule," softly remarks Cedric, coming closer until his face met hers, following up with a gentle kiss to her forehead and taking her hand for another. "Then again...this particular one does feel different than the rest, no?"
Cedric was wearing his gray robes beneath his linen shirt, sitting beside Leila as he reclined on his own chair. His eyes soaking in the beauty of his beloved queen. Still maternally glowing and so full of joy and life. Cedric yawns, and leans forward near Leila's side.
"So what are you keeping yourself occupied with, my dear?"
Leila chuckled at the suggestion, setting the quill down to rub her pregnant swell. "I think this little one knows that it will soon have to share our love and attention with its siblings - and wanted to keep the exclusivity for as long as it could. But it could not stay there forever," she smiled down at her belly, feeling the slight shifts of tiny legs and arms getting in position. "It has grown big and strong, and knows we have been looking forward to holding them close."
Her gaze returned to her husband, full of tenderness. Their children had a habit of picking strange hours of the day to arrive, depriving their parents of sleep. And yet, every single time, Cedric would remain alert and steadfast by her side, watchful and caring, spending every minute of her labor next to her. She was fortunate and grateful for a husband like him - devoted, loving, supportive in words and in actions.
"I am reviewing the offers for the food and drink that we have received from the Lords Gardien, Halstead and Amatore. They have proposed a selection of delicacies for your feast," Leila replied, pushing one of the papers towards him. "We soon ought to decide on a menu. Though, to do that, perhaps we should finalize the list of guests first."
She leaned back on the chair with a sigh, her free hand resting on her belly. A sigh, and then a deep breath; a contraction seized her midsection again, but it didn't break her focus.
"What do you think, darling? What should we work on first?"
The king briefly scans the writing and spread out papers that his queen had placed on the desk, piecing together his own recollections on his own individual and group interactions with the three lords. Honorable, experienced men with their own respectable families. But most importantly - their track record of governance walked in the same path of integrity he and Leila both firmly believed on.
"Very kind of them that they sent their letters swiftly and without delay. After all, they could had easily sent the proposals much later before the feast...which would be a nightmare to gather. Still, we must take a note to thank them for responding on such quick correspondence." remarks Cedric, his eyes adjusting to the lighting of the lamp.
"Now as for the menu...it is true that we must finalize the list of guest first. The mealset would have to be intentional in a sense the food is catered towards what our guests could generally be allowed to eat, especially since there's that recent Scholar article about, what's the term...'allergies'? Now imagine if we were to choose the wrong one!"
The king smiles comfortingly to Leila when she leaned back. His right hand briefly brushing against one side of her largely swollen midsection before ending it with a soft pat. The supportive gesture spoke more than words in that moment. For it was the intention of supportive presence.
"Who do we currently have on our guest list for the feast at present?" Cedric asks calmly.
With slow, careful movements, Leila shuffled the papers around until she found the one she was looking for and slid it over to Cedric's side. Her expression did not change while the contraction lasted, remaining focused and composed. She was no stranger to these pains, after all, and had no fear in the presence of her beloved.
"This is the current list," she said, straightening herself up again. Rows of names and titles took up most of the page: members of the Cord were listed first. Such a celebration could not be without them, and etiquette dictated they were given a status of priority. Father Esau, who would soon be alerted of the Queen's labor, was listed there, amongst trusted councilors, army generals, distinguished nobles and trusted Ambassadors. And family, of course; House Veridan, Queen Astrid...
"Those who have a little cross next to their name," Leila continued, pointing the quill at her brother's name, "are the ones we can assume are confirmed. The Church, for example, and family. They will received a formal invitation, but we know already their answer will be yes. And then, the rest, we will have to learn their answer in writing."
The flame in the lamp flickered, casting shadows on the papers and the faces of the royal couple. "Every name here is someone who has attended in the past, whose presence we know you appreciate and enjoy. They have joined us in celebration before, and showed generosity and loyalty towards the Crown. But here," she brought to him another people, "are people who have not been invited before. They would attend this banquet for their first time - their first royal banquet. They are mostly new Merchants who hold a seat at the Guild's council, Scholars with new important contributions, and Ambassadors from abroad who have only recently arrived at the kingdom. I have personally met only a few of them. Perhaps we can go over them together - it is your choice in the end, my love."
Cedric slid his righg index finger down the list as he scanned through each name and under which affiliation. Some names he knew by heart and some by connection. Nonetheless, an impressive list. His eyes focused its shift from top to bottom, before sliding the next page.
"We should send a follow up RSVP unless our messengers are certain the invitations had been sent to our intended recipients." remarks the king, "But you have done well thus far, my love."
His index finger stopped at the new names that Queen Leila also mentioned, particularly the new ones Cedric had only heard by reputation and commendation.
"Do you recognize some of the Merchants listed here, Leila? Perhaps their family names might had been brought up during your past years as the daughter of the Veridans?" asks Cedric, looking to the other new names listed. "We can have a scribe look up the notable contributions of these scholars when they're introduced to us - after all, such professions tend to produce a sense of yearning for validation for these gifted people. They will remember when we speak well of them."
He taps one Ambassador Cedric was familiar with - the Lady Roxanna. "She's our key to introducing us to our dedicated Ambassadors. Inform her beforehand that we might expect her to initiative some of their introductions, including their cultural feats of course."
He then turns to Queen Leila, reaching for her hand and squeezing it gently. "The baby?"
She took his hand, her thumb brushing over his knuckles, and placed it on her belly. Her midsection felt firm underneath his palm, the muscles tightened around her womb. "The baby is doing well, my love. Getting ready to meet us," she smiled. "There is still time..."
She let his hand feel around for the baby, for its slight movements and shifts, while she returned her attention to the list of guests. Her eyes panned over the rows with the Merchants, many of whom she was on very good terms with. But the new ones...
"This name - Larsson. I remember it. Lady Larsson would bring her daughters to Hortensia to get their dresses tailored by us. Her husband was in forestry, if I recall well. I met him once, when I was Lady Chevalier's assistant, but he has since passed away. I assume his children have taken over the business. Lord Owen Larsson... Strange, I don't remember a son. Perhaps he is the son-in-law?"
Her eyebrows furrowed for only a second. "I have received letters and reports from the Larssons, and heard the Guild speak well of them. But should they be invited, it will be the first time I meet them in person. And these two... Lady Samalea and Lord Aquilina. The newest members of the Merchants' Council, I hear. Samalea owns amber mines near the mountains. And Aquilina manages the fisheries off the coast of Scarlet Cove. I have not had the chance to meet them in person. They were elected only last month; my confinement had already begun."
Leila's features twitched, and a soft grunt escaped her lips. A deep breath followed it, and then a long, steady exhale - repeated for as long as the pain lasted.
"And the Scholars... I know them not. Lord Grou of Ostina spoke highly of them - they're his recommendations. Astronomers, historians, a-alchemists... Distinguished at the Academy..."
Cedric's heart fluttered at the trust and vulnerability Leila was around him. Her gestures a firm reminder of how much their love and bond had grown, complimented by the lives they had created and cherished through their children. The king nods trustingly at his queen's response - he can count on her to decide the right choices leading to the delivery of their child.
Until then, plans still had to be made.
"Hmm...the local registrars should have updated records on them should we need them. If it is indeed true has has passed and he was only known to have daughters...It's very possible Lord Owen's final wishes was his house's name must not die out, and had her daughters(at least one of them) opt for a matriarchal marriage. Meaning - the son-in-law agrees to carry the family of his spouse so that the house survives. That...would be the only plausible answer. But since we have received their correspondence, we might as well ask casually in-person."
Cedric pulls his hand that was on Leila's swollen middle, rubbing his chin as he briefly ponders the new mentioned members of the Merchant's Council. "Fecundia's roads haven't been kind to those on the mountain path, but perhaps the demand for amber must have covered well for such a high cost. And Aquilina's fishery positions on the Scarlet Cove...curious as to how he was able to pay-off the officials considering they almost always charge bribes for a favorable position in the fisheries. Still, their success in such a short amount of time is both interestingly curious to me as it is skeptical. When you are able again, my love, I propose we catch up with the Merchant's Council again."
Cedric did not comment on his beloved's grunt, letting her labor quietly as a gesture of trust in his queen's abilities.
"Alas, the Scholar circle is one I have yet to fully study," admits Cedric, chuckling. "But I will beseech Lord Grou for his cooperation as to why he recommended such wise individuals. Is that everyone, my love?"
Leila listened closely to Cedric's responses, her eyes fixed on the list - it helped her focus to lock her eyes on one thing while she rode the waves of the contraction. Her body had done this twice before, and she knew what to expect. But it remained a trial, and the pain - though manageable still - could not be so easily ignored.
The aches lessened by the time Cedric finished his review, and she looked back up to him again. "It will be a while before I can be at the head of the Merchants' Council again. But those who direct it now in my stead would gladly share more information. And of course, we may consider inviting Lady Samalea or Lord Aquilina personally to Castle Partus. Lady Samalea might benefit from speaking with Lady Elian of Lacedaemon - Roxanna. I believe there are synergies waiting to be explored between the two, and the Ambassador has been quite open to engaging with the kingdom's mine owners."
Leila shot another look at the papers with the names, and then nodded her head. "That is everyone, yes. Once the list is confirmed, we will proceed with the invitations. But now - here comes the difficult part."
In this context, one would think the Queen was referring to her condition. Yet, nothing in her gestures or expression showed that she was about to face something difficult - though it would come later.
"Seating arrangements. The cornerstone of diplomacy. I need your help with that, my love, because the mistake of seating General Sterling next to Lord Khalil still haunts me," Leila said with a guilty laugh. The royal artist, known pacifist and vocally anti-violence, next to the head of the army. It was a rookie mistake seven years ago, but the Queen still cringed at the memory of her error.
Cedric's facial expressed soured with an equally bothered smile when the two bickering guests were mentioned. For even with her best efforts, even they could not fully guarantee the social cohesion of those who are seated - only the ability to predict and provide projections. The king let's out an uneasy chuckle alongside Leila's laugh, vividly remembering the skirmishes.
"General Sterling had deliberately controversial opinions on Fecundian warfare...now if only the wine was not as strong that night. We probably would not have dispatch a guard to restrain the general...and a servant to carry the unconscious Lord Khalil, " comments Cedric, reminiscing the humorous situation, albeit lightly.
"But you are right, seating is just as important as the program and catering that precedes it. In which case...instead of a long banquet table, why not a few circular ones dividing each group? We can safely filter our guests much easier that way."
A dim blue sky was starting to show outside their windows, signaling the advent of the coming dawn.
"We could sort the guests based on what we believe are their ambitions or the culture they're working under." suggest Cedric, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "The Scholars could be joined with those of the Merchants, with the worst being an imbalance of personalities. But nonetheless, still preferable. Those of the Military may next to those of the Church, for while each have differing views to each other, we point out how much they need each other, we can also focus on what binds us all together - duty, human potential, dedication, hard work, possibility, and many others."
Leila let out a scoffing laugh, hiding her face in her hands. "Oh, please, do not remind me. To this day, it is perhaps my biggest blunder as Queen! I thank the goddess Lord Khalil didn't blame me for what happened, otherwise I dread the thought of what he might have depicted me like in our portrait!"
Her laugh rang like birdsong in the dim-lit room, like a sprite of the night lingering until the very first minutes of the dawn.
"But yes, perhaps we can consult with Tharius Mercer for where to seat our military guests. He knows them well, and well... I find him less intimidating than the General." Leila reached for a clean sheet of paper, and then dipped her quill into the ink pot. Then, with steady hands, she sketched several circles around a larger rectangle: the main table, and those of the guests. A plan for the banquet hall, a guide to avoid mishaps.
"We will be seated here," she said, writing 'Crown' on the rectangle table. "And our guests can be spread out on these tables here. The Church and Military can be the ones closest to our table... Haa, and then... Mm, g-give me a moment."
The Queen paused and closed her eyes, bringing her hands to her lower back, where the pain was more intense. Slowly, she got up from the chair, straightening her body, her hands still on her hips. Her belly, hung low between her legs, protruding from her abdomen when her back arched.
"I'll... Just pace around for a bit. Some movement will do me good," she sighed, giving him a smile as she began a slow waddle towards the window.
"But yes, we should find the right balance in each table. What do you think? Put all the good friends together, and those who don't know each other together? Would that help them get acquainted? Or maybe, it would create an awkward atmosphere... Perhaps, those most known to us, and most sociable, could be seated with the newer guests - maybe that would be more pleasant..."
Cedric nods in agreement. "Yes, Tharius would be more versed in that area, I'm certain. He could very well bridge the gap between us and those of the military. So let us send a quick word for his support and collaboration in this matter." The king watches Leila sketch, intently watching her graceful hands at work as she drew out the table layouts."
When his beloved queen came to briefly pause, his attention went to her hands, joining her as he gently rubbed his hand just above the spot where Leila was rubbing. The moment she makes an effort to stand, Cedric helps her - gently pulling her up with his arm strength. Nodding again to acknowledge Leila's intention to pace.
Cedric instead takes Leila's place and takes the quill pen in her stead, looking to her as she continues to plan even in her current state. Glancing between where she stood and the parchment he's resuming for her.
"I propose we use all the available info we have from our sources then intentionally designate them in where they think they'd be suited - based on our deductions anyway. Then hope to Mellidone all goes well." says Cedric, who was about to write when he paused. "...have we also considered what parting gifts to leave them as honored guests? Maybe we can opt for a generally-acceptable present?"
"Parting gifts? Oh, I had nearly forgotten about that," Leila replied from the other side of the room, swaying her hips while her hand rested on the mantle piece of the fireplace. "You are right, we must give them something at the end of the night. But I think they should all receive the same item, otherwise I fear there might be divisions amongst our guests. One person complaining that another person's gift was better... I would rather not have to deal with that."
Her steps resumed, and she made her way back to her husband, hands cradling her pregnant swell. Movement had always helped her, and tonight, this was no exception.
"Though I do believe that the Cord, those who are closest to us within it, are deserving of an elevated gift. The night of the banquet is to celebrate you, my dear, and they will be the first to raise their glass and drink to your good health and fortune. I have no doubt that they know they are appreciated, but such a gesture would underline it further. What do you think?"
She came to stand next to him where he sat, one hand resting on his shoulder. Her midsection was at the height of his head, currently soft in the absence of a contraction.
"That is true...we can agree on the guests receiving the same items to avoid any display of favoritism to our honorable patrons. Perhaps, something that reflects the occasion, like a special trinket from our metal artisans, with variations for men and women who are in attendance." adds Cedric, who makes the note on an empty sheet of paper for his wife's reference. He can hear her soft steps towards him as he writes on her desk, turning to her only after he had finished.
"And an elevated gift for our lords and ladies of the Cord...yes, this has my approval as well. We could have a separate ceremony to avoid any misunderstanding for them and those in attendance. We are grateful for their service and allegiance to us, after all-" He pauses after feeling Leila's reassuring touch on his shoulder, and he brings it to his lips as he looks up to her in rapt adoration. His thumb gently caressing the top of her hand before letting go.
"Please, perhaps you'd like to sit instead of me," offers Cedric, who stood up from his chair and stepped aside should Leila step in his stead and sit back down. A soft smile of appreciation as he puts his palm gently against the side of her pregnant, covered swell.
"-you have been working so hard, and I appreciate everything you have done for me, this family, and the kingdom, my love."
The Queen chuckled softly, lifting her hand to caress his cheek and tuck a lock of his silver hair away. "I am fine, my dear, do not worry. It helps me to walk, the pain becomes less. And the pressure on my back is lessened somewhat when I'm upright."
Her explanation came with a soft smile, and the golden light of the lamp shone on her face, still not showing any signs of fatigue or distress. Though she could feel the pressure mounting, the familiar sensation of the baby's descent into the birth canal, she kept her composure. The pains increased only a little in intensity and frequency - yet she remained in control, relaxed for as long as she could still.
"It is simply my duty, Cedric," she responded. "My duty as Queen, assigned to me on the day you placed the crown atop my head. That day, I swore to the Goddess that I would do all that I am asked to; that I would work hard for the kingdom and its people. And for our family. For you, my king and husband, and for our children. And for as long as Mellidone keeps me able, I will continue to do so."
Many doubts had been cast upon Leila when she became Queen: her competences, her knowledge, her background, even her intentions. But no one since that day had doubted her loyalty and devotion.
"Now, let us finish up here before this little one gets needier. A commemorative gift... A brooch, perhaps, designed to mark the occasion; one that can be worn later on too. Suitable for either sex, though I believe some of our female guests tend not to wear them..."
Her swaying recommenced, slowly from side to side, a distraction from the incoming pain. "I hear from the ladies in court that bracelets are returning to fashion. The Ambassadors of Lacedaemon and Selenia wear a lot of them, apparently, and it has created a trend amongst the nobles. Haa..." A short pause, a purse of her lips. "We could discuss it with our jewelers... I trust their creativity and skill."
Bless you, Leila. I am proud to have a wife like you.
Cedric smiles with a soft chuckle and an affirming nod, before turning his attention to the paper in front of him. Quill pen in hand. "Right...a brooch would most definitely be suitable for both parties, but just because it's versatile in both situations does not mean it is always the best for both..."
The king ponders quickly on other alternatives - a special wine? No, this would only cater to those who drink...Flowers? Too cheap. It must be something of equivalent cost relative to what the Crown is willing to give up-
Bracelets are returning to fashion.
"Bracelets...of course! Since we'll be having the guest list, we could file a custom order of brooches for the men and bracelets for the women? Our jewelers would be no doubt, capable of the task we have for them." states Cedric, looking to Leila for feedback.
"Mm. Their designs have never once disappointed us. I am certain that they'll -unf- rise to the occasion once again."
At its height, this contraction forced Leila to pause and breathe deeply, this time for longer. Her belly tightened, muscles wrapping around the baby in her womb, urging it to move farther down. She rocked her body from side to side, grasping on the back of the chair for support, thin fabrics swaying with her movements.
Deep breaths, long exhales, do not let it overwhelm you...
She thought to call for the midwives, to send word for Father Esau to prepare the birthing room. But right then, the intense pain faded, the belly was released of its tight hold, and Leila relaxed once more. Good, this was progress.
"I will request they propose some designs, something appropriate for the event. And we shall choose which ones we like best. Perhaps I will consult my sister; Beatriz has a good eye for jewelry," Leila said, and for the first time, a hint of fatigue was in her voice. But her strength was still there, unwavering.
"Now, for the seating arrangements..."
The discussion resumed with new ideas and suggestions, along with her pacing around. Though only thirty minutes later, she would sit back down again; to write it all down, she claimed, but the truth was that she got tired. New tables on the plans, names scratched out and replaced by others, scribbled notes next to guests. A lively back and forth as the sky outside slowly began to lighten, casting away the dark colors of the night. There was still time before the sun would rise.
And still time before the baby would come, it seemed, though perhaps less than they thought. The contractions were closer together, and soon demanded the Queen to stop what she was doing and focus entirely on them. Soft moans left her lips between the exhales, though still in control. Planning became secondary, and she was quieter now, but she remained very much involved.
"And now... Back to the food..."
The king's expression slightly tensed as Leila took slightly more time to pause and breathe deeply, longer than the previous ones were. The change of shape in her distended middle also confirmed it - his heavily pregnant queen was going through another contraction. Only this was more intense than the other. Still, Cedric had faith - the queen would signal when it's truly time.
"I'd expect we'd have quite a number of established jewelers in Fecundia, in the capital alone," comments Cedric, who begins writing another note for the jewelers on a fresh sheet of parchment. "On your suggestion, I was initially thinking we'd form a Merchant advisory board specifically on whom to pass the contract order to. But Lady Beatriz as your designated consultant would simplify things. Speed things up even because of fewer approval gates."
As dawn was starting to show, it became clear to the king Leila was starting to become tired from standing. She gestured for an extra seat and he quickly provided one for her to sit on. Cedric notes this, but does not press his wife any further on her progress. He did find that he was starting to speak more often than she would, but that was alright - she was still giving useful perspectives and recommendations on the matter.
"Yes, on the subject of food, I'd say a full course meal consisting of Fecundia's staple delicacies and known recipes. Made by the finest kitchen staff composed of distinguished cooks specifically for this occasion." proposes Cedric, who is now the one standing and pacing behind Leila as the secondary think tank.
"We source the raw food directly from our trusted source of grocers, but also station our food tasters as part of the screening process. Not to critique the food, but to determine whether they are safe for consumption."
Leila nodded, her head in her hand, elbow on the table and her other hand on her belly, legs spread apart. She blinked slowly at him, fatigue gradually catching up, but she wouldn't let it take over her.
"What was this term you mentioned earlier? Allergies? I remember one of the medical scholar's presentations of the condition. What a curious thing, really... It made me glad that I do not have any - that I know of, at least. And neither do the children, it seems."
Sheepishly, she lifted her head again, reaching for one of the papers. "But do we know if any of our guests have these allergies? It is new knowledge, and perhaps not very public yet. I cannot think of anyone on the list who has aversions to foods. Ungh..."
Another twinge; the pain was seconds away. Leila straightened herself up for it, holding onto the chair and the table. She grimaced, gritted teeth fighting against the urge to make noise. The pressure had been mounting and mounting for hours now, pushing against her cervix, forcing her body to open. At this stage, there were very few things that gave her relief, and planning the meal was not one of them anymore. She found herself hoping her waters would break soon, releasing much of that pressure. She had no way to know how close or how far she was from that stage. But perhaps, it was finally time to call for someone to give her that answer.
Still bracing the contractions, she turned to the window. The first light of the day could be seen on the horizon; a deep orange chasing away the blue of twilight. Not long now.
She turned to the king, a hand reaching out to him; asking him to get closer, to hold it. "I need a favor," she said between heavy breaths. "Soon the children will be awake; someone ought to be with them in the morning, in our absence. Will you call for my sister Clara? She and the nannies can look after them. And Flora should not miss her tutoring lessons..."
"It's still very much a developing research study by the Scholars, but there's no doubt in the evidence that such condition exists. Not just for us, but on our own children. But 'tis true...let us hope it is not present in our children or to those we love."
The king watches Leila labor again, just as she was about to reach for her papers. He walks behind her and puts his own on the chair should she lean forward. No words were said during the subtle labor, just the affirming silence of each other's presence...and company.
You can do this, my love. I believe in you.
Cedric took up Leila's hand onto his, letting it firmly slide as they established mutual eye contact. At her request however, he wanted to clarify further.
"You want me to leave you in your current state to do so and so, or will a servant suffice for that?" asked Cedric, a subtle twinge of concern pasted over his face.
"A-A servant will s-suffice," came the Queen's response in a strained voice, just as the grasp on his hand relaxed with the pain subsiding. Experienced as she was, Cedric's constant presence was not really necessary; she could afford to go a few minutes without him. But she could tell her body was trying harder now, she could sense the time fast approaching. Those grunts and groans, they were a sign of a switch happening within. And she didn't want to be alone for it.
"A-and, ask them to call for Father Esau as well. I feel that I have made a lot of progress; I'm curious how much my body has opened by now."
Neither her voice nor her face showed urgency or stress. If Leila was starting to grow worried, it was hidden well underneath a layer of trust and confidence in her own body. She smiled at him, her features softening into an expression of love.
"Worry not, all is well. My body is telling me what it needs, and I am listening. This is no different than with our daughter or our sons," she reassured him, her tone genuine. Leila was not one to deceive or lie; not to her husband, and not to herself.
"Go, fetch the servant. I'll go over the delicacies that Lord Gardien and Lord Halstead propose. I, for one, know what I would like to taste at the banquet," she laughed, and retreated to straighten her body once more.
The king lets out a humored chuckle before he nods and quickly makes for the doorway of their bedchambers. It was not like he was going to be gone for too long, after all. Surely there is still time?
He would dash quickly but in orderly manner as he brisk walks through the hallway, and sooner than later he came across one of the maidservants who were preparing new bed covers for the vacant bedchambers of other guests/tenants of Castle Partus. His presence causing her to quickly curtsy, as the king approaches her.
"Please see to it that the twins are cared by the wet nurses presently available, and tell Princess Flora she is to proceed with her lessons without the Queen and I when they start later this morning."
"And one more thing, inform Father Esau or have a messenger send quick word: Queen Leila is in labor."
At the mention of her mistress' giving birth, the maidservant politely curtsies again and runs off as much as her she could possibly run with a dress - carrying her bundle with her. Cedric retraces his steps and heads back to the bedchamber.
He opens the bedchamber door and enters again.
Cedric would find his wife right where he left her, sat at the desk, quill in hand, writing on the papers. She hadn't moved - not that she was likely to, given the advanced state of her labor.
Leila smiled at him in greeting, a tilt of her head beckoning him to rejoin her at the desk. Her expression was calm, though her sluggish movements and faint beads of sweat on her forehead meant that another contraction had just run its course, bringing her close and closer to the final act.
"Thank you, my love. Flora has improved so much in mathematics that I would hate for her to miss a lesson," she sighed, leaning back on the chair. "And the boys, well - they can be a handful. Clara can keep up."
She motioned at the papers, sliding a new list towards him. "My proposal for the menu. What do you think? I tried to pick a balanced selection of dishes. I may not know whether our guests have allergies, but I do know, from our past feasts, that they certainly have preferences..."
She brought a hand to her abdomen, rubbing the side of her pregnant swell. "Oh, this pressure... A-anyway, it's an initial plan. You should include your own picks, my dear. Though I like to think my choices are to your liking, too."
The king lets a sigh of relief to himself. Perhaps he was overthinking things - his queen will be alright. They will be alright. Seeing his queen still sitting there, he walks up to her and places one hand on her shoulder before leaning forward to look at her currently written notes.
"She has, hasn't she?" remarks Cedric at the mention of their daughter. "No doubt she's inherited those gifts from you, my dear. As for the twins...it's nothing Clara can't handle."
His eyes shifted to the new list when Leila brought it to his side. Squinting as he reads the list from top to bottom. "That is true...generally most wouldn't bother themselves to be adventurous for their prefered cuisine-"
He then takes a spare quill pen and writes a revision note on the side of her list: smoked venison over basted wine.
"-that will be all for me, my love. Thank you." He looks to Leila and smiles, following up with a kiss to her pasty forehead. "You must need a fan, perhaps?"
Leila leaned over to take a look at the paper, humming in approval. "Mhm. A fine choice. And one that I know many guests would appreciate."
She moved the paper to the center of the desk, away from the working area, and tilted her head to receive his kiss. "Mm, yes, perhaps. Or a nice chilly breeze. Unf... To think the night is almost over... Where did all the time go?" She sighed and turned her gaze downwards, at her belly. "You'll be a child of the morning, like your older sister, little one... You waited so long to make your appearance, surely you could have waited a few more hours so that I could have slept?"
With a chuckle, she looked back up to her husband; round green eyes searching for his. "Could you bring me a glass of water? I will finalize the lists here," she said, stifling a wince as she picked up the quill once more.
"Of course."
The jar of water and wineglass cup was on a small side table not too far from where the two stood, and Cedric walks toward it - pouring one for the queen. The long neck of water-filled glass bottle pouring onto the glass cup.
"I don't think I recalled coming up with a name for our little one, haven't we?" brings up Cedric, who walks back to Leila and places the filled wineglass cup near an empty spot of the desk. "It's either we choose one now or later on when the baby arrives."
"Thank you, my dear," she replied, picking the glass up with her free hand and bringing it to her lips. She drank nearly the whole glass in one go, realizing only in that moment just how parched she was.
"We have not decided on one, no. Though if my memory serves me right, it's because we could not agree! Unf--" she chuckled, but then it quickly turned into a sharp inhale.
The Queen brought a hand to her belly; she knew right away, this one was different. Sharper, deeper, more forceful than the ones before it. It stopped her in her tracks, only until she could catch her breath again.
"Ugh...mmf... But I s-still like the name Melina...for a g-girl," she muttered, nearly overcome by the pain. She tried to regain her composure, but to no avail. In fact, that's as far as her distractions could take her.
She reached for the water, just as the contraction struck again. She grunted in pain, the quill scratching across the length of the page. Her fingers missed the glass, tipping it and its contents over the table.
"N-no! Th-the... Haa, ughnn--"
The king quickly rushed Leila's side and quickly reaches for the half-drenched papers, moving them to a dry corner of the desk. He then puts one hand to the side of her pregnant swell, checking to see if it's still tightening from the contraction.
"Melina's a lovely name, Leila. I'm certain of it," reassures Cedric, and glancing also to the wet papers. "We can have the papers dry off and it'd still be useable but right now...it seems you need to get ready soon, my love."
The king looks to the closed door of their bedchamber, as if it half expecting Father Esau to join in right after. But there was none. Perhaps he's coming from the Grand Cathedral.
Nevertheless, Cedric walks over to their bed and straightens the covers in preparation. Unless the Queen is able, it's fair to say the delivery would take place here. When he is finished with that, Cedric returns to her side, holding her hand and an affirming palm against her swell.
"You're doing great, my love."
The Queen's panting breaths were interrupted by grunting noises, her hand still clutching the quill tightly. Cedric's hand would find her belly firm, like solid rock, seized entirely by the labor pains.
"I'm sorry... Nghnn- I m-made a mess... The lists-- Argh!" Leila yelped, still in the throes of the powerful contraction. Her shock was evident: at the pain, at her clumsiness, at the thought that the whole night's work would have to be thrown away. "S-sorry.. Sorry, Cedric, th-the papers... I didn't mean..."
She stopped herself, trying to catch her breath. No, she couldn't keep thinking about that; whatever happened, happened. The baby was coming, and she had to focus. She had to slow down and pace herself. The pain would be intense, but she couldn't let it frighten her.
Straining, she shifted in the chair and wiggled out of her dressing robe, tossing it on the back. She had to get ready. She had to focus.
"The baby..." she whispered to Cedric, reaching up towards his arms - she wanted to stand. "It's time... I feel th-the need to push. My body -ungh- wants to push..."
The king gently carried reached out and held Leila's forearms as he quickly pulled her up to stand. Two thoughts ringing in his mind as he considered their options - find her a resting spot or be a pillar for her to lean on as she stood. Though this wasn't their first time, Cedric was also aware this also meant the pacing of the labor is not the same as before. The baby will arrive more urgently than Flora or the twins, Finnian and Eirwyn.
But he still needed to check.
So Cedric gripped Leila's arms, and slowly led her to the bedchamber mattress. Whether she chooses to lean against it, climb on, or assume a different position entirely, was up for the Queen to decide on her own.
The contraction waned, but the pressure persisted. When she stood, Leila could feel just how much the baby had descended in her pelvis, the head lodged in her birth canal and inching closer to the exit. She was right in the middle of the transition now, and her body was screaming at her to push.
But she knew she couldn't give in, not like that. It would be a losing battle to mindlessly start pushing. She had to match herself to the rhythm of the contractions, distinguish the pain from the constant pressure, and work with her body - she had to calm down and focus.
Once at the bed, she grabbed onto the post of their canopy bed and rocked her hips, knees bent under the pressure. She brought one hand to her belly, feeling it relaxing under the thin fabric of her nightgown.
Calm, calm... Wait for the pain...
She lifted a knee up to the mattress, leaning her body into a careful lunge to open up her body. "Haa, haa... Unf, ughn... There is s-so much pressure..."
The hand that was on her belly moved down to lift up the hem of her nightgown, finding its way between her legs. Her fingers softly felt around: no head yet, but a growing bulge under her folds.
"I hope - unf - my waters break soon..."
The door opens, and Father Esau arrives.
"Your Majesty, I rushed as soon as I could muster. Apologies, I was sleeping in my bed chambers until-" The priest froze, seeing the Queen already in position by the bed on a semi-squat lunge. With Cedric knelt close to her, rubbing her lower back.
"-and not a moment too soon." ends Esau, who rolled up his sleeves as he joins King Cedric who's knelt behind Leila. "How much progress has Her Highness achieved?"
"She's experienced pains in the middle of the night, and has been awake since." says Cedric, keeping both hands planted on Leila's lower back. "But it's only now they're starting to intensify. But her waters have not broken yet."
Father Esau nods, and looks to the door entrance before speaking near Queen Leila's side.
"Your Highness, will you require a full birthing staff?"
The Queen greeted the priest with a nod of acknowledgement, and it was all she could muster before the pain of the next contraction demanded her full attention. The aches resumed strong as ever, and with them came the urge to push once more.
"N-no, I don't th-think there's enough t-time..." Leila whimpered in-between deep breaths, shaking her head. But even if there was time, a full birthing staff meant a crowd barging into the room, and it was a known fact the Queen did not prefer that. "Only th-those you need t-to -unf, urgh- to conduct the d-delivery..."
She strained as she rocked her body, keeping herself stable with the wooden post. Having felt her womanhood just seconds ago, she could visualize it now: the head moving down, pushing through her walls, breaking through her petals...
Leila moaned in pain and grunted, her forehead glistening with sweat. "My b-body wants to p-push... Ungh, mmf... Father, your e-examination... P-please tell me if I sh-should push..."
"Of course."
Father Esau attempts to stoop lower so his eyes could meet where the Queen's opening is, but realizes the struggle of having to angle his back so low just to get a good look. King Cedric doesn't flinch from such act, knowing this was just part of delivering their child. The priest tries again, but finds the position awkward. He turns to his liege. "Your Majesty, for the purpose of this examination we must move the Queen onto the bed and on her back so I could check. But I cannot carry her alone - I will need your cooperation."
Cedric looks to his beloved wife, and then to Father Esau. Nodding.
So with great effort, the two slowly lifted the laboring Queen Leila on top of the bed, and has her lie on her back. The priest taps her thighs, gesturing her to spread them in a wider stance.
"This is only for the examination, Your Highness." reassures Esau, "When we can gauge your current progress, you may resume whatever position feels best for you. Now, if you please just relax-"
The priest rides up the hem of her nightgown just above her pregnant belly, pulling down her undergarments down to her ankles. Then, with a soft insertion, sinks his index and pointer finger between her swollen nethers. Father Esau closes his eyes as he concentrates.
Very good. She's opened up.
Father Esau pulls out his fingers and smiles supportively to the queen.
"Your body is open, Your Highness. You may push at your moment of urge."
Despite the pain and her groaning, Leila helped the two men as much as she could, letting out a long exhale of relief once her back was on the soft pillows. It wasn't the most comfortable, now with the full weight of her baby pressing against her organs, but she had been on her feet for so long, it was a welcome change.
Her body clenched slightly around Esau's fingers when he inserted them, a familiar and brief intrusion. She tried to steady her breathing, to find a good pace; the contraction had left, but it would soon be back.
Father Esau's response only confirmed the Queen's assumption that her body had been working silently and efficiently to open up for the birth. It had allowed her to occupy herself with other tasks, to focus on planning for the banquet, but now it was time for her to give it her undivided attention.
"Thank you, Father," she said softly, taking a few moments to rest. Her chest rose and fell with each deep breath, her body shifting in search of comfort and relief. She pushed herself to lie on her side, taking the weight off her back, and raised one knee to give her baby space.
The next contraction found her in this position, and this time, she was fully ready. "Haa... Haanh... Uuughnnnn! Hhnnghnnn! Unf, haa... Haahn.... Hhhnnghhh!"
When Cedric noticed Leila was shifting to one side, he helped her by placing one hand against her back and gently pushed her as an extra boost. Instinctively holding up her raised knee and supporting it with his own strength. They were not strangers, both already well educated and taught on the practices of childbearing before Flora was even born.
"That's a good angle." comments Esau, nodding his approval before he leans forward and gazes between her legs. "Now let's see Fecundia's next prince...or princess."
Cedric also glanced to where Esau was peering through, curious as to how much progress his beloved has made thus far.
"That's it, Your Highness," encourages Esau, putting his two fingers across her swollen folds, gently parting them open like straightening the seam of a folded fabric. "Let us take a peek and see - what you have been blessed with..."
"Hhnnghhn! Uhn, huh... Hhnnghhn... Heughnnnn!"
The Queen continued to groan, bearing down just as the contraction wanted her to do. Her face was half-buried in the pillows, one hand grasping onto them while the other found Cedric's shoulder to hold on to. Her belly shifted and tightened with the contraction, shrinking slightly into her abdomen with every strong push Leila managed.
Though still hidden inside her birth canal, Esau would be able to clearly feel the shape of the baby's head pressing down. A round bulge was forming around her womanhood, pushing against the Queen's opening, soon to stretch her out. A boy or a girl? Soon the royal couple would know.
Leila exhaled deeply with a loud moan once the contraction ended. Her body relaxed but the immense pressure didn't go anywhere; it took all of her restraint to wait for the next pain and not keep pushing.
"Haa... Haa..." Leila panted, bringing her hand down to rub her pregnant swell. "S-so much pressure..."
Cedric sets Leila's thigh down and kisses her forehead before pulling out a handherchief, wiping the sweat off her forehead. "Nothing too strong for you, my love." He puts one hand against Leila's own that was rubbing her pregnant swell, then glides off and gently rubs a vacant spot.
Fight hard, little one. Your mother will bring you forth into our arms very soon.
"That is to be expected." states Esau, bringing a metal basin, some clean cloth, and a ceramic jar of water nearby. "But we can use the intensity of the pains alongside more favorable ways to push. But let's see first how this one is doing." Esau turns to Cedric, and the king nods as he once again pulls up Leila's leg again in preparation for the next pain.
Father Esau gently taps her resting leg with his fingers, counting the seconds.
"Ready when you are, Your Highness."
Leila gave her king a hum of appreciation at his caring gestures, tired eyes panning to look over at him with all the love she didn't have the strength to utter. Every motion he made, every word he said to her was filled with his affection, and it was in moments like this, when their children were about to enter the world, that her love for him burned brighter than ever.
"Nghhn... Mmmf, ugh..." At the sign of the first aches, the Queen resumed her position, her right hand now holding the bottom of her belly while the left one continued to grip the pillow. She considered Esau's words; he was right, a different position would perhaps be more effective. But if she could stay a little longer like this...
A first push, and then a second one; Leila knew what to do. The pain was her tool, guiding all of her efforts down there, at her bulging opening, her blossoming petals. Strong pushes, focused breaths - and then, some relief.
"Hhnnghhhh! Huunnghhnnnn! Guh, haa... Huuhn, mmf... Hhnnghn-- Aargh!" She felt a pop deep inside her womb, a familiar sensation as a splash of clear fluid gushed out from her. In that moment, it was like a gift from Mellidone herself - all the pressure flowing out of her, making her feel lighter, like she could breathe freely again.
"Aaah, finally... Oh goddess, thank you..." she panted, her voice muffled by the pillow pressed against her cheek. It was only a small mercy, this brief release - now the pain was going to be more urgent than before. "Ngghnnn-- urghnn! Hhnnghnnn...!"
The priest smiles warmly as the clear fluid gushed out of his female liege - a good sign that no fetal distress is implied. The fluid that once cushioned and protected Fecundia's next royal kin flowing out of it's mother as the two watched in gentle silence. Cedric watches in awe as he held his wife's leg, letting out as sigh of relief as he too, knew what the clear fluid meant for the baby's health.
Father Esau kept his hands poised, choosing not to wipe the fluid trickling down her nethers. His reason as that the fluid softened and lubricated the Queen's birth canal and skin of her opening. Nonetheless, he placed dry towels under her, the absorbent fabric soaking in the birth fluid.
"A little respite." remarks Esau at Leila's waters breaking.
King Cedric nods again, taking Leila' hand and kissing it supportively. He leans close to Leila and spokes softly to her ear.
"You're doing so well, darling."
Tiredly, the Queen lifted her head. Leila couldn't really see the fluid, but the calm reaction of the two men and the lack of distress or urgency in either one's voice told her everything she needed to know: the baby was doing just fine. It was confirmation that for all these months, she had kept her baby safe and healthy in her womb, and had done so well in preparing for this moment.
She let her head drop back on the pillow, taking a few moments to rest. Another hum for Cedric's gesture, and this time, a soft chuckle too. "My king..." she said quietly, "thank you."
Knowing the respite would not last long, Leila did her best to gather her strength and prepare. Pushing on her side had proven useful, but in her experience it wasn't the most effective. She needed a wider range of movement, better control of the urges.
"I want to b-be on my hands a-and knees," she muttered, looking first to Cedric and then to Father Esau - whom she knew would approve of the switch.
Slowly she pushed herself off her side and up, until she was on her knees. Her heavy belly settled between her legs, with her nightgown bunched up above it. At this point, it covered only her engorged chest, and she would rather have her bare skin be her infant's first contact with its mother. And so, it was removed.
Now bare, she leaned forward on her hands just in time for the contraction. She spread her knees a bit and, like this on all fours, began a slow rocking motion, syncing it up with the force of her contraction.
"Haa, haa, anh... Hnnnnghhh! Heuuunnghnnn! Mmf, nnghn... Hauuughnnnn!"
Both the priest and the king aided Queen Leila once again into the next position. With Cedric taking Leila's arm and supporting her lower back and Esau placing a fresh set of dry cloth on her new spot on the opposite side of the bed. It was both an intimate and vulnerable position to be in, but it was also clear the only people in the room were those the Queen believed and trusted to see her in such gravidly exposed state.
Especially when she initated the remove of her nightgown which left her bare.
Father Esau quickly reached for the queen's nightgown and neatly folded it before setting it aside.
King Cedric on the other hand, began putting the darkened drapes on the windows for privacy and for Leila's assurance that she was safe.
Cedric turns just as Leila is about to face another contraction, and quickly hurries to her side. Esau remains close by, observing the queen's efforts between her thighs. Both their facial expressions remaining solemn yet warm.
This is all on her. They were just helping her but the true battle - rested on Veridan queen's vigor and stamina.
Perhaps it was vulnerable and exposed, but the Queen used this position with all her other labors - and with excellent results, her midwives would testify. Such concerns were of little importance when a new life was about to be born.
Leila rocked her body back and forth, bringing it backwards and low every time she pushed, working right alongside the contraction to bring her baby further down. The mounting pressure in her lower spine and the surging weight in her womanhood told her she was close - it would soon begin to burn, and she should not fear it.
"Hhnnngh! Huunnghnnnn! Haah, urgh... Ah, haa, haahn... Hhhnnnghnnnn!"
With each push, Father Esau could see the bulge grow bigger and rounder, and the first signs of her folds parting. Glistening with amniotic fluid, her reddened opening twitched with the pain, ready for the imminent crown.
"Hhhnnnghnn! Huuhnngh! Guh, haa... Haa, haa, a-ah... C-Come on, baby... Unf, uhn..." Leila panted, her pregnant belly relaxing as the contraction left it. "Haa, haa... Mmmff..."
The two watched intently as Queen Leila worked to push out the baby into the world. Both eyes fixated on the gateway of life as the queen pushes with powerful effort. It wasn't time yet to cup the perineum or apply any sort of oil for the skin to stretch.
But it was time for some pressure-alleviating methods.
The king gently kneads on the bare lower back of Queen Leila, using his fingers to massage her slightly curved back with a firm press, with motions that flow upward and downward. Father Esau was closely by, examining her bulged opening and taking note of its complexion. Soon, the gaps of rest will become less and less as things start to intensify.
The only question was - how much left was still needed to be unraveled before them?
"Deep inhales, Your Highness," advises Father Esau, "Allow yourself as much air as your body needs. You will not have the same luxury later on." The priest says this plainly, knowing the Queen was well are of this. "If this position is too much, we can resort to trying another one that's favorable."
Cedric's tender but intentional hand was a welcome relief from the pressure, received by a content moan that indicated he ought to keep going. Her back arched and curved, her hips swayed from side to side; Leila moved her body to prevent it from going stiff, but also to guide her child towards her opening.
Each deep inhale sucked her pregnant belly into her abdomen, and then dropped again with each exhale. "N-No, it's fine," the Queen replied softly, tucking a runaway lock of hair behind her ear. "I like it like this. I-I can keep going."
She sounded confident, concentrated. Esau and Cedric could see the outside of her body, shifting and changing as it prepared to birth, but she could hear it, she could feel its needs. Despite the pain, she was in perfect tune. And so when the next contraction came, she got back to work.
"Haa, haa... Unf... Hhngh, gah... Hhnnnghnnn! Heeuunnghhhh! Aaargh!" Eyes closed and hands gripping the bedsheets, Leila pushed again, rocking backwards with the force of the contraction. The lips of her womanhood twitched and parted, opening up for the incoming head.
With quick panting breaths, Leila lowered herself on her elbows, and kept going. "Hhnnnghnnn.... Haaaughhnnnn! Aaaughnnn, unf, haa... Haa, haa, haa... Hnnnnghnnn!"
A slit, and then a small teardrop shape; the very top of the baby's head was right there.
The king smiles at Leila's verbal signal and continues to knead down with his firm hands until the next contraction starts. His forearms matching the flow of the Queen's bodily sway like two slithering serpents dancing together. His eyes keeping watch on whether her body starts to stiffen or freeze suddenly, which would indicate the start of a contraction.
Father Esau naturally confirms Leila's decision with a solemn nod, remaining by the queen's side as he watches carefully. He had nothing but respect for her and his calm demeanor reflected that. For she was just as much a warrior of Fecundia as she was a mother, the childbed her battleground.
When Leila starts to groan again, the two closes in behind her, keenly observing the progress displayed on the queen's gateway of life. Breathes held as if cheering her own in anticipation. The flower quivers and as the Queen roars, it blossoms-
"Wonderful push, Your Highness."
"That was a big one, my love! I'm starting to see the baby's head now."
Small grunting pushes accompanied the end of the contraction, but they were not strong enough to move the baby further down. Her folds relaxed and closed again - only for a few moments.
"Haa... Unf... G-Good, because I can definitely f-feel it..." she said between heavy breaths. The Queen pushed herself back up, and slowly sat up so that her body rested on her knees, which where spread apart and open, forced by the incoming head. "It's right there... Almost..."
She cradled her belly, now softened again, and felt her baby's tiny limbs move around at the last chance they got. For in a few minutes, they would be wiggling in their mother's arms.
A short break for deep breaths, and back to the fight. She got on all fours again, this time determined to bring the head to a crown.
"Nnnghnnnn! Hauughnnnnn! Hhnnnghmnnnn! Gah, ah-- ow, unf... Hhnnnghmnnnn!"
Little by little, her womanhood opened up again. The top of the baby's head pushed her out, filling out her opening and creating a teardrop shape. It gradually grew bigger, Esau would see, stretching with each strong push.
"Aaaughnnn.... Hhnnghhn! Heughnnnn! Ah, haa, haa, hah... Hauughnnnn!"
Pale skin with a little hair; the very first look at their baby. It sat there, lodged snugly in her exit, stretching it out. Her vulva took its shape now, her petals opened up in an oval shape.
"Huuunghnnnn! Mmff, unf... Heughnnnn! Argh, unf... Burns... The pressure..."
It was all the Queen's efforts as the priest and king watches on, with Esau choosing not to intervene yet. Two men mentally urging the ruler on, albeit for different reasons entirely but still the same goal. To bring the unborn child to its mother's bosom. Each push, hoping it'd be the last, until reality reveals it was not to be.
Cedric rubs his wife's lower back again in a supportive manner. This time, to convey the sensual expression of accompanied presence. The Queen was seen, guided, and helped. She was safe- the baby was safe. The king reaches for Leila's hand, squeezing it firmly before letting go.
"Yes, my love. You're so close-"
Father Esau's expression remained calm, letting the two share a tender moment in silence but in each other's presence. But it would stop again as Queen Leila got into position once more.
"A little bit more now, Your Highness," rallied Esau. "For your child!"
The priest watches as the crown starts to part wider until it was unmistakenly the blessed 'teardrop' shape. A form that only starts to curve further into a circle. Just a little more, just a few more-
Father Esau reaches out and pressed a cloth against Leila's perineum, trying to prevent her from tearing and allowing her skin to adjust to the baby's size. The only question was - how much was left to be revealed still?
"Yes, Your Highness." confirms Esau, "Now you must breathe between your pursed lips, and pant!"
At Esau's cue, the Queen pursed her lips and began to pant rhythmically for the last stretch of this contraction, thighs quivering from the intensity of her efforts. "Haa, haa, haa... Haa, haa, haa... Haa -- ughnn! Haa, haa, haa..."
The head bulged a little more and then retreated only a little, just enough to settle nicely in Leila's opening until the next contraction could push it further down. It wasn't a step back - this mother knew by now that she couldn't rush this stage, or she'd risk injury to herself.
Leila continued to pant even after the contraction ended, though the pressure remained. Her face was flushed from the efforts, and it was now that the signs of exhaustion made themselves visible. But the Queen had strength left in her still.
"Haa... Haa... My dear... S-some water?" she asked quietly; all the groaning and panting had left her throat dry.
King Cedric dashed towards one part of the room and pours a cup for his tired queen. One hand angling the chalice up to her lips and another hand raising up Leila's chin. He gently pours the cooling liquid onto her pursed lips, smiling encouragingly as she gulps it down.
"Drink as much as you need."
Father Esau begins fanning air into Leila as she drinks, hoping to cool down her body temperature and provide some relief. His eyes glancing to the bulging scalp that's lodged between her legs. At least no signs of any stuck shoulders. Experience also helped immensely in this situation - Queen Leila having Princess Flora was not the same Queen Leila having her third pregnancy in this one.
"There is still to change positions if you change your mind," reminds Esau. "Her Highness can lie on her side again if she prefers the support on the side, or on her back if she'd have that I take over and assist her for the final legs-"
In her tired state, cool water tasted like nectar, rejuvenating the laboring Queen. She drank it vigorously; every bit of energy would help in this last stretch of childbirth.
Grunting noises and short strains filled in the gap between the contractions, small acts of resistance against the overwhelming urge to keep pushing all the time. The priest's calmness was a clear tell that there was no distress, no urgency to get this done as quickly as possible. She could take her time and listen to her instincts.
The next pain came faster this time, intense and powerful as ever. "Hhngh! Unf, oh goddess... Hhnnnghnnn! Heuughnnh! Haa, haa, haa... HUUUNGHNN! Hhhnnghnnnn! Haa, haa, haa..."
Leila pushed with all her might, each guttural groan enlarging her opening, stretching her sensitive skin out to accommodate the head. Yet, as soon as she stopped straining, the head retreated, sliding back into her velvety tunnel.
"Huughnnnn! Heughhnnnnn! ARGHH! Ugh, unf... Come on, baby, c-come on... Haa, haa, haa-- HNNNGHNNNN! Haa, haa, haa... Hauughnnnn!"
The Queen gave it her all, keeping her bottom low in each push. Thighs quivering, belly shrinking, only inches closer to the end.
She pushed herself up to be on her knees, trembling hand reaching for the bedframe for support.
Small twinges of considerable worry was starting to set in between the two men. But both handled it in different ways - Father Esau waited for Leila to get into position before sliding his index finger around her opening as if to coax her folds to stretch further. To perhaps create a gap where progress could be forced on one angle. It was also to measure the circumference of the emerging baby's head. Perhaps, there was more to the meaning behind her struggle.
King Cedric knelt by Leila's right side, being her firm anchor to the mental state of pained delirium that is labor. If she was losing sense of reality, he'd be there to remind her. Track of time? Her sundial. No resolve? Her source of motivation. Cedric lovingly wipes off her beads of sweat on her forehead, putting a firm warm hand against the mound of her raging swollen midsection.
"The baby's right there, my love. You only need to push a bit more now..."
King Cedric turns to Father Esau, communicating to him with a facial expression. The priest stopped what he was doing for a moment - he knew what his liege wanted.
He want to have a moment with their soon-to-be birthed son, or daughter.
Cedric gently taps the topmost scalp of his offspring's crowning head, visualizing someday, this child would also receive a crown of equivalent authority in the future. One finger become two, and the king sighs contently as he swirls around the spot as if playfully tousling a toddler's hair.
Then he stops, and pushes against it firmly. Counterpressure. His other hand placed atop Leila's bare buttocks to let Leila know who was holding their baby now.
"...Please push for me now, Leila. For our child-"
It wasn't only exhaustion and pain that tormented the laboring Queen, but also disappointment. If her body was ready, why was she progressing so slowly? If it had opened up, why was she struggling? She was pushing so hard, giving it all she had...
She leaned into the king, nestling her head on his shoulder; aside from the pain, he was her only other constant in this trial. A whimper escaped her lips as she closed her eyes for a brief moment. "I-I'm trying... It's so m-much, the pain..." she moaned. It was rare for her to complain; this truly was a challenge... "I-I'm so tired..."
Cedric's warm and caring touches, familiar and comforting, attempted to pull her away from despair. His rubbing elicited tiny moans from where his fingers stimulated her, spreading signals all around her red, stretching folds. And then, a tiny kick, a reminder: this wasn't over, and someone was waiting for her.
He got her; he was holding her, both of them. They were safe, he was there. She had to keep going.
Mellidone, give me strength! For our child...
"Hhhnnnghnnnn! Heuughnnnnn! Come on, c-come on... Haaauuughnnnnn! HNNGHNNNN!" Leila gritted her teeth and strained, bringing her body down low on the mattress with the force of the contraction. Little by little, the head pressed against Cedric's hand, now taking up the entire length of her opening.
"HUUUNNNNHGGHHHH! Aaargh! Guh, haa... Haa, haa, haa - Haa, haa, haa... Haah, hanh, hhnghnn..." The Queen kept going, leaving her body no chance to backtrack. "HHUUGHNNNN! AUURGHNNN! Hnn, haa, haa... Haa, haa, haa... B-burns... Heuughnnnnn!"
More of the baby's scalp emerged, stretching out the Queen's petals as far as they would go - and it stayed there! Leila cried and groaned, her whole body trembling from the effort - but she would not let a second go wasted, not when she was so close, when their baby was right there--!
Father Esau could only look on in awe as the intensity of the delivery played before him. He had witnessed countless births under his experienced years, and he thought there was no scenario he had not come across. But tonight he has been proven wrong.
The king and queen's bond was strong that it endured the very bane of a woman's struggle - the pain of childbirth.
Let me help you, my love!
Sensing Leila's waning stamina, Cedric dug his fingertips around the baby's head. His rough-skinned but firm hands guiding the gradual emergence of the baby's arrival. If the queen was to pop the baby out, he'd cushion the spurt. He was dictating the flow from the outside, but that also meant cooperation from his wife's own pushes. His fingertips just sliding around the tightened, elastic skin of her folds. Swirling gently in a flow-
"-come on, Leila!" urged Cedric. "That's it...that's it...nice and easy.." His right hand rotating in a counterclockwise motion, fingers sliding underneath her labial skin. Beckoning, coaxing, urging.
In the distance, the tolling of the Cathedral's bells announced the arrival of a new day; the sun had risen, gracing the kingdom with its light and warmth. Soon, they would chime for the arrival of a new heir.
Leila did not say anything in response. Her voice was now only to moan and pant rhythmically, to breathe through the pain - a pain so intense that took away her words. Her folds burned, stretched out tightly under the relentless battering of the head that sought to break through to the other side. The head staying lodged there meant progress; but it also meant zero relief.
The contraction barely ceased, or if it did, she didn't feel it. The pain squeezed her abdomen once again, making her belly tight and rock-hard. "Hhhnghnnnn! Hueeenngghnnnnn! HAUUURGHNNN! Haa, haa, haa -- Huuuunnghnnnn! HUNNHGHNNNNN! B-Burns, unf, burns! Ow, hhnghnnnn! Hhnngh--- AAURGHNNNN! F-fuck!"
The head pressed firmly against Cedric's hand, filling up the space that he was making with his fingers. Her folds parted as far as they could go, the skin thinning under the pressure. She pushed and grunted, her body quivering. And in turn, the head pushed and pushed - and it broke through.
Tufts of hair, the top of the forehead, the very tips of the ears - the entire width of the head spread the queen open. It stayed there, stretching her out completely - in-between worlds, the infant waited.
"Hhghnnn, haa... Heuughnnnn! Hghhnnghnnn! Haa, haa, haa... Ah-unf, angh... Gods, unghn! D-Did I tear? A-am I b-bleeding? F-Father..."
It pained the king to see his beloved queen struggle and fight so hard. But he also knew the only way forward was through. King Cedric bit his lip, feeling compassion with each groan, cry, and grunt coming from her. She's working so hard...and yet, why hasn't the baby's head fully emerged?
Cedric was the first to answer.
"Y-You're not bleeding or tearing, Leila." says Cedric, looking at the half-emerging head of their child. "It's just that-"
"-the head is only half out." interrupts Father Esau, extending his as if to tell the king he could take over from here. "Your Majesty, we need to let the Queen rest for a bit while we reassess our options." He gently taps Leila's thigh, and instructs the Queen. Cedric follows suit, and begins helping his wife reposition to a semi-lying position.
"Your Highness, you've done well. Rest a little." The priest brings out his own cloth, and wipes the sweat off her face as she's helped by Cedric.
Leila had very little time to recuperate, unable to resist the urge to push through the burning sensation, to ignore her body's need to pause. But her grunting pushes were interrupted by her husband carefully moving her, a change met with a tired groaned.
It wasn't until her back was against the pillows that she realised how stiff her body felt. She had to keep her legs spread open to make space for the emerging head, her belly tight and firm. She reached a hand down between her legs, timid fingertips touching the top of the head - soft and squishy, just as she remembered. And yet so solid, so big... Her fingers went to her clitoris, touching it gently for some relief.
Esau's words only barely registered. 'Options'... She was too dazed to think about its meaning. Her other hand moved to her belly, and then to her chest; she felt something wet, but paid it no mind. Her body knew it would soon have to nourish a new life, and had been ready for some time now: milky-white droplets formed at her nipples, a precious fluid ready to touch the infant's lips, her engorged breasts ready to offer warmth and comfort.
"Nnghnn... C-come on... Co-come on, baby..." Leila grunted, drops of amniotic fluid leaking between her outstretched folds. "Hhnnghnn.... Huuunnhhghhhnn! Haa, haa, haa... Huuuughnnn! Haaughnnnn! Ergh, unf, haa-- Haa, heuuughnnnnnn! HAAAURHHGHNNNNN!"
Father Esau looked at the exhausted queen and thought long and hard - time was running short and also of the essence. If the baby's head is prolonged in this position, damage is possible or worse - no it's too early to consider this a possibility. He had to think of something. Queen Leila has been playing her part near perfectly as any fighting mother would.
The silver-haired king was Leila's side where she needed him right now. Up until now he wasn't entire sure now on what's the best approach to take from here - to risk hurting Leila further by pulling the baby out, incorporate the use of a tool by the Scholars, or bet on Leila again that she would push through in her current state. All options promised an outcome, but it would be choosing right one for the right time.
Cedric closes his eyes, but could not cover his ears as Leila attempts another push with the same result.
"Father Esau..." says Cedric, with a pressuring tone.
"-I'm thinking, Your Majesty!" outbursts Esau, realizing he had shouted against the king. "I'm so sorry, it's just-" Esau's eyes caught sight of the Queen's nursing breasts, specifically one nipple that had droplets that the priest thought were whiteheads.
"-It's just??" clarified Cedric, looking at Father Esau quizically.
"Your Majesty," addresses Father Esau, "I know this request is rather crude by nature but please bear with me - grope and and squeeze Queen Leila's breasts."
King Cedric blinks. Ohhhhh.
The silver-haired king wastes no time as he knelt close near Leila's upper body, reaches out with both hands and brazenly grabs her bountiful chest like low-hanging fruit. With a hesitant delay, he starts to squeeze and release.
Squeeze and release.
Cedric's embrace, with all its good intentions, found Leila in the middle of the contraction, right when her body felt like it was about to be split in half. And so, at first, she was averse to his touch, shifting and wiggling slightly. Until, well-- Until she felt its effects.
A rush of pleasure coursed through her bloodstream, in stark contrast to the pain she'd been feeling for hours. Her nipples hardened under his touch, slow and circular motions expressing milk from her heavy breasts. Like a waterfall it came over her, soothing, comforting, empowering.
"Nhghn... Cedric... Ah- hah, unf..." The Queen leaned her bod into him, nuzzling her face in his chest as she tensed up for the next pain, hands holding her belly. "Mmf, haa... Hhnnnghnn! Huuunnghnnnn! Haaaughhnnnn!"
Leila pushed as hard as she could, bringing her chin to her chest with strain and gritted teeth. The stimulation had released a new energy in her, a new force that bore down on her womb, urged the body to act...
The baby's head shifted, her body quivering, and it began to budge again. Little by little, it pushed out: more of the forehead, then the eyes, then a tiny button nose...
"Aaaargh! Huuunghnnnn! Hauuughnnnnnn! Guh! Haa, unf... Haa, haa, haa - Haa, haa, haa... Hnnnghnnnnn! Hhnghnnnyaaughnn!"
...And more cheeks, and the ears, and the lips, and then -- a loud moan, a strong push, and a head!
The baby's head popped out with a gush of amniotic fluid, and Leila cried out in relief, her whole body trembling.
The old priest sighs, and the king sighs in insurmountable relief. Perhaps, it was finally over. The baby's fully emerged head, now a physical indication of that fact. Cedric gives a soft chuckle. The kind of chuckle that is completely done with the situation and joyful that at long last - it was over.
They only need to get the rest of the baby out.
Father Esau moves in in front of the Queen, slipping his hands as he checks the baby's neck for a cord. Finding none, he turns to Queen Leila with a warm nod. "You've done well, Your Highness. Rest easy but when the next one comes - do no hesitate. I shall help you as well."
Cedric rests his head on Leila's right shoulder, turning his head to kiss her cheek.
"I'm proud of you, my love."
Leila's moans filled the room, softer and calmer this time, as the pain subsided and the contractions waned. What a relief it was, getting the head out; all of the burning pressure dissipated, and finally, Leila could relax.
The Queen leaned her head on Cedric's, humming at his kiss. "Mmmf...Thank you, m-my dear... My king..."
Sheepishly, she brought a hand to her vagina, chuckling weakly when she felt the head resting there, tiny delicate features simply waiting to be adored. She groaned when the head turned, the baby getting in position for the final stretch of childbirth.
She cradled her belly, making tiny grunting pushes and panting noises as she waited for the last of the painful squeezes. And when they finally came, her gaze found Father Esau, her stoic helper. He could tell she was exhausted, but there was still a gimmer in the Queen's green eyes. She was ready; her child would be born now.
"Haa, unf... Hhnnnghnnn! Hauunnghnn! Gah, haa, mmfff.... Heuuunnghnnnn! Huuunghnnnn!"
Her folds parted again, revealing the shoulders nestled within. Already stretched before, they opened around the baby's body as it pushed through. Little by little, with steady, strong pushes...
"Hnnnghnn! Hauaughnnn, HEUUGHNNNN! Unf, haa, oh Cedric, a-ah... Hauughnnnn, hhnnnghnnnn!"
With a trickle of fluid, the baby's shoulders would come into the priest's waiting hands, followed by its round tummy and strong little legs. The sensation took Leila's breath away, and her sharp gasp was followed by silence.
Her first thoughts were a prayer. Mellidone...
The baby grimaced and wiggled, its mouth opening up with a gurgling sound. "Ngh, gurgle... Nyeh- Waah, waah!"
And the Goddess answered her quickly, sending her the sweetest song.
