Aysling lay exhausted, her sweaty body pressed against Azura's chest, trembling from the pain, while her mate looked even paler than her, visibly distressed. He was constantly prepared to share his magic with her and even bleed if necessary to restore her strength.

Olivia and Malla stood beside Merkat, bringing clean cloths and water, encouraging Aysling to keep pushing through.

“Come on, sweetheart. Just a little more,” Olivia whispered, wiping the sweat from her daughter's forehead, her heart breaking as she witnessed her suffering.

“I can see it! Aysling, he’s almost here! Your dragon is almost here!” Merkat exclaimed with urgency, prompting Olivia to shift between Aysling's parted legs, ready to help deliver the baby.

“Push harder, daughter! Bring your baby into the world! Come on, you can do it!”

Aysling felt a sudden, intense release, as if something heavy had finally left her body.

“AAAHHHH!” she cried out, giving one final push, and a breathtaking golden egg tumbled onto the n