Archus

Inside the humble nipa hut on the outskirts of a walled city, the young maid cradled the newborn in her arms, her brown-feathered wings fluttering softly as she gazed down at him with a tender smile.

"Rin," a weak voice called out.

The maid turned, clearing her throat nervously. "Oh—sorry, Ma'am Laya," she said, offering a gentle smile. "Here's the little one." She carefully placed the sleeping infant against his mother's bosom.

A soft chuckle escaped the exhausted woman's lips. "Just call me Miss, Rin. We're all maids here."

"It's an honor, Miss Laya," Rin replied with a bow.

Laya smiled as she caressed the baby, her eyes full of warmth. She adjusted the blanket around him, securing him against her.

"Miss Laya, what's his name?" Rin asked in a hushed whisper.

"His name is Archus," Laya murmured, her voice laced with affection. "But you can call him Arch."

Rin's eyes sparkled with joy. "Welcome to the world, baby Arch," she cooed softly, her words filled with warmth.

"Welcome to the world, my child," Laya echoed, holding her son close.

A rustle came from the corner of the room.

"Done," a calm voice announced.

A woman, her dark hair tied in a neat bun, stood up from where she had been tending to medical tools. Short deer-like antlers protruded from her head, and her bloodied maid uniform bore testament to the arduous task she had just completed. She closed a small briefcase before turning to the others.

"Laya, I'm heading back to the mansion. I'll leave Rin here to look after you," she stated, her voice steady and composed.

Laya offered a tired but grateful smile. "Okay. Thank you, Lyn. Sorry for putting more work on you."

"It's nothing," Lyndis replied, bowing slightly before turning toward the door.

"Miss Lyndis," Rin called hesitantly.

The woman paused but did not turn back. "It's fine, Rin. Just take care of Laya," she said, then stepped out into the night.

The room fell silent, save for the quiet breathing of the mother and child. Rin turned back to them, her expression softening as she watched over them.

Outside, the rain had stopped, and the storm clouds began to part.

A new life had begun.