CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY THREE - Under the Mage's Eye

It was on a quiet evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon and bathed the mansion in a warm golden glow, that Elara requested a private audience with Anna and Erik. The couple exchanged a glance, sensing the gravity in the mage's tone. They followed her to a secluded study, one that Elara had claimed as her own since her arrival. The room was dimly lit by flickering candles, their flames casting dancing shadows on the walls lined with ancient tomes and mystical artifacts. Elara gestured for Anna and Erik to sit in two high-backed chairs while she remained standing, her silver hair shimmering in the candlelight. "I've made a discovery," Elara began, her voice low and measured. "One that I believe is directly related to your child and the unusual circumstances of this pregnancy." Anna instinctively placed a hand on her swollen belly, feeling a flutter of movement within. Erik leaned forward, his body tense with anticipation. "What kind of discovery?" he asked, his voice a low rum