1564024802

nature of childbirth. A way for the Three-
Faced Goddess to keep the balance, to avoid
flooding the lands with too many immortal
children who would devour her resources.
Manon scanned the half-ruined camp,
though.
The crone read her question in her eyes.
“Our men dwell at our homes, where they are
safe. This camp is an outpost while we
conduct our business.” The Crochans had
always given birth to more males than the
Ironteeth, and had adopted the Fae habit of
selecting mates—if not a true mating bond,
then in spirit. She’d always thought it
outlandish and strange. Unnecessary.
“After your mother never returned, your
father was asked to couple with another young
witch. He was the sole carrier of the Crochan
bloodline, you see, and should your mother
and you not have survived the birthing, it