One of the elders steps forward. "Yes, our annual harvest is soon upon us," he says. "We need all the hands we can get to ensure it goes smoothly." He glances over at another villager, who nods in confirmation.

"There are fields that need to be plowed, crops that need tending, and food that needs preserving for the winter.

As you offer your assistance, Toji finally reappears from the forest, his stride purposeful and confident. When he sees you talking with the villagers, he raises an eyebrow but doesn't interrupt. Instead, he walks off in the direction of the village elder's hut, no doubt to discuss his own business there.

"Give it all to me,"

he growled roughly, digging his fingers into her hips. She arched her back, pressing their bodies together even tighter as she came apart beneath him once more. Sweat dripped down her brow, mingling with her tears as she rode out the last waves of her orgasm.

Finally, spent and satisfied, they collapsed together onto the soft bed of leaves, their heavy breathing filling the quiet air.

After what seemed like an eternity, Toji spoke.

"We should find shelter before dawn."

She nodded weakly, wrapping her arms around his chest. The heat from his body was a welcome relief from the chill of the night air. They lay there for several long moments, content to just breathe each other in until finally, exhausted beyond measure, they fell into a deep and dreamless sleep.

One of the elders steps forward. "Yes, our annual harvest is soon upon us," he says. "We need all the hands we can get to ensure it goes smoothly." He glances over at another villager, who nods in confirmation.

"There are fields that need to be plowed, crops that need tending, and food that needs preserving for the winter.

As you offer your assistance, Toji finally reappears from the forest, his stride purposeful and confident. When he sees you talking with the villagers, he raises an eyebrow but doesn't interrupt. Instead, he walks off in the direction of the village elder's hut, no doubt to discuss his own business there.

"Oh my god,"

the midwife breathed, wiping the sweat and blood from her brow. She placed the squalling mass into Celia's arms, and for a moment, there was only silence. Then, as if responding to some unspoken command, Toji leaned in and pressed his lips to hers.

"Our baby,"

he corrected softly, brushing a tear from her cheek. He glanced down at the tiny form cradled in Celia's arms and felt an overwhelming sense of awe and love wash over him. They had done it; they had created new life together.

"Look how beautiful she is,"

he murmured, unable to take his eyes off their daughter.