Book Two, Chapter 32 Summary

The woodshed is not as hidden as Theo remembered, but he concedes that if Xan performed a ground search of the forest, they would be found no matter how secret their hiding.

They prepare for the birth in the woodshed, laying out the supplies. Miriam says they will need to light a fire once the baby is born to keep mother and child warm, despite the risk. Theo is sent outside during the preparation. He feels excluded, but sitting in the quiet forest gives him a moment to appreciate why Julian wanted to have the baby away from prying eyes.

Theo is very hands-on during the birth. He supports Julian from behind and he holds her hand. He is also very respectful of Miriam, whom he recognizes is a capable mid-wife. The baby is born and is a boy...