Cyrus looked between them and finally smiled properly, though it lasted only a moment. "You are helping."
Zyran looked very pleased. "Of course I am. I am a treasure."
Isabella muttered, "A cursed one."
"A rare one."
"A troublesome one."
"A treasured troublesome curse."
She laughed again, and Cyrus felt relief move through him so strongly that he almost had to look away. As long as she could still laugh, he could breathe. As long as she could still glare at Zyran and complain about the babies being rude, he could tell himself there was still time to prepare.
Meanwhile, Osiris had already failed his task.
Completely.
Cyrus had given him clear instructions.
Very clear instructions.
Find Kian.
Tell Kian quietly.
Ask him to find experienced women.
Do not frighten the palace.
Do not scream.
Do not let panic lead the way.
Osiris remembered all of it for about seven breaths.
Then the panic ate the rest.
