The birds' calls echoed through the trees around the young girl sitting on the branch. She slowly rubbed her hands along her stomach, noticably pregnant. Her feet kicked idly as she stared off into the distance.

There was a rustle behind her, and another figure appeared out of the brush and swung down next to her, kneeling down.

"Are you okay, dear?" The newcomer spoke softly, brushing her earthen-colored hair behind her shoulder. No answer was necessary. Elicia knew why she was here.

The girl gave no response, simply rubbing her belly and staring. Elicia swung her legs down on the side of the branch and hugged her lightly.

"You'll make a fine mother, dear. Don't worry." Elicia smiled softly, draping an arm over her shoulder.

"Will I? How can you know that?" The girl's voice was choked, on the verge of sobs. She sniffed and gasped softly, trying to control herself.

"I know. You'll do fine. All mothers go through this kind of thing. They worry about not being good enough, not deserving the baby. They think they won't be able to rise to the occasion. But they always do."

The girl leaned against the Lunar, a small tear running down her face. "I can't. I- I just can't. I..."

Elicia patted her comfortingly. "You can. Believe me."

Her shining eyes rose to meet the Lunar's, new tears forming inside them. "Do you really think so?"

"Of course I do. I know you can do it. You'll be a good mother. You just have to trust yourself."

The girl hugged Elicia tightly, before letting go and wiping her eyes, her bracelets jangling as she lifted her arm. "Okay. I... believe you." She sniffed wetly. "I'll go back."

"Good. I'm not saying it just to comfort you, love. You will be a good mother. I can tell." Elicia rose to her feet, gently picking the girl up and stepping carefully along the branch. They disappeared among the trees, back to Halta.