*Storm's POV*

I turned around slowly, trying to hide the panic that was welling up inside me. In front of me stood a tall, stern-looking guard with a crossbow aimed at my chest. There was no way I could outrun him, and with my water breaking, my chances of escaping without notice were rapidly dwindling.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I tried to find the words to plead for mercy, but the pain of the contractions was overwhelming, making it difficult to speak. I lifted my hands as the guard had instructed, my mind racing to come up with a plan.

"Please, sir," I managed to choke out,...