"What?" Theon's voice came out as barely a breath. He stepped forward, his own legs feeling suddenly unreliable. "What did you say?"
Vael resumed pacing. His movements were faster now, more desperate. "I know. I know. This is bad." He ran both hands through his hair, yanking at the blond strands. "I mean...the situation. She can't get pregnant before consummation night. It's bad luck. And the council will rule the child as unworthy."
His voice cracked on the last word. Vael stopped abruptly, his shoulders heaving with the force of his breathing. He looked around the entire space, but he wasn't exactly seeing anything in particular.
"Stay calm," Theon said, moving closer. He kept his voice low and measured. "We can figure this out."
Vael shook his head violently. "I can't." His voice broke again. "I can't, Theon. You don't understand—"
