We crossed the bridge and stopped in the clearing in which we had left Vasek. Sari and I shared a horse. She was wrapped up tightly, I had fussed a little over keeping the baby warm, and she had her arms around my waist. Fergus had insisted on coming along as well, and he entered the clearing first on his own horse. He trotted around the edge, and dismounted near the entrance. He tied his horse to a nearby tree.

"I'm going to keep watch, but out of sight," he said. I nodded and he disappeared into the trees. I dismounted and helped Sari down, then tied the horse with the other.

"So when is he going to get here?" Sari asked. I shrugged and put my arms around her. I was a little apprehensive for many reasons. We stood near the entrance and didn't have to wait long.

{Sari,} Vasek came out of the forest, {it's really you.}

{Vasek,} Sari moved forward and embraced her brother.

{How have you been? We feared the worst for you.} He ran his hands over her neck and wrists, {No collar?}

{I've been fine, Vasek, just fine, and I'm not a slave.} She pulled back, "I'm sorry, but this coat is just far too warm, Rhyn." She removed it and threw it to me. She turned to Vasek, who had a stunned look on his face.

{I... You... Who...} Vasek stammered. He cleared his throat and gripped the hilt of his sword, {Who did this to you? I swear I'll...}

{No, Vasek, it's okay, everything's okay,} she put her hand on his face, before taking his and laying it on her stomach with her hand on top. {This belongs to my mate.}

{You've taken a mate?} Vasek entered proud brother mode, {A strapping young tiger no doubt.} He laughed heartily, {You must take me to meet him. Is he up north, above the river?} Sari looked at her feet and stepped backwards. She twisted to face me. {Sister?}

I stepped forward, clearing my throat. I slipped Sari into my arms, {He's right here, Vasek.} Vasek's face twisted, and my stomach dropped to the ground. My heart pounded hard and fast. I didn't know whether to run, or say something, or just make it quick and drive my own sword through my chest.

{No, you can't, it can't be. Sister, is this... is this... What is this?} Vasek's hand darted for his sword again.

{I have sworn my life and my child's life to this man, Vasek. We are mated, and you will not harm him.}

{How is this even possible?} Vasek clutched his head. This was a lot for him to deal with all at once. I relaxed a little.

{We do not know, but it is the case,} Sari said. She looked at me and smiled. I smiled back, and turned to Vasek.

{Will you please come back with us, to Lyn'knoll?} I asked, {We can talk and you can rest.} Vasek looked up and down.

Vasek grimaced, {I don't really have much choice, do I?}