Excerpt: The Evil That Men Do

Alira lay, exhausted, on the birthing bed. One nurse stayed at her side, calmly wiping the sweat from her forehead and murmuring incomprehensible platitudes.
“Where’s my child?” she whispered.
“The doctor is checking him over.”
“He’s a son, then?” Her tone lacked any hint of interest.
“Yes, a son. A fine, healthy boy.”
“Then why can’t I see him?” Again, her tone lacked emotion.
“You’ll see him soon, citizen Alira.” The nurse leaned closer to whisper in her ear. “The doctor just wants to do a simple test. It won’t take long.”
Alira managed a weak nod. “He’s fine?” she asked softly.
The nurse straightened and patted her hand. “Yes. They’ll let you see him very soon now, I’m sure.” After a check of the various instruments monitoring her patient, she added, “I have another mother to check on in the next room over. You’ll be all right here alone?”
A wry smile twisted Alira’s mouth. “I’m used to solitude. But thank you for your consideration.” She watched as the nurse left, then closed her eyes, but not to sleep.
::My son,:: she sent, the effort making the sweat pop from her forehead again. ::My son, I love you.:: Her secret Talent, her secret shame that she had told no one that she could, with effort, send her thoughts to others and read others’ thoughts in their minds. Her dread secret that her son shared her Talent, even so new to the universe.
::Mother?::
Her eyes flew open. He was so strong! ::Sarthin, my son,:: she sent, tears of relief flooding her eyes. He was alive, he was well!
::Mother!:: The call was more insistent. What were they doing to him? She stirred restlessly, and a second nurse came in to check on her. She willed herself to display a calm she did not feel. Fearing someone might notice her Talent, she refrained from sending again while this second nurse stayed.
::Mother!!:: The call this time could not be denied. She opened her eyes and willed the nurse to leave. He did.
::Child of my heart, take care. Hold back a part of you or They will take you away.:: Fear shot through her again at the thought of losing her son, too.
::I will not let Them take me.::