Vitality

In the fourth millennium AUC, the Roman province of Gallia flourishes in the Empire’s west, where strength, cunning, and creativity are honored, and vibrant traditions endure beneath terracotta roofs. 

Sapient beasts—humans, hyenas, foxes, ravens, snakes, and frogs—wear practical clothing and rely on sophisticated devices, vehicles, and animal companions. Roman laws and customs shape daily life in markets, temples, and family homes.

I’m Lucretia, a raven lawyer married to Phineas, an electrician. Through the Lotus bookstore, we’ve become close friends with Eugene and Magid— as well as younger Phillip and Lucian. 

We chose to raise our young at home while balancing our respective careers. Luckily, my mother is available to watch our eggs, so we don’t need a nurse by the nest. 

One morning, Phineas and I discuss the arrangement with her.

“You know it gets cold here,” my mother, Martha, says.

“The new nest has plenty of warming functions,” Phineas replies.

“The incubator can be precisely adjusted,” I add.

“All right, sweetheart. I’ll make sure there are enough supplies before settling in,” she says.

In the months that follow, Martha diligently watches over my clutch while Phineas and I work. We often come home to her stories and, sometimes, gentle critiques. Though she can nag about the house, I know her intentions are kind. 

One afternoon, she calls me.

“It’s time,” she says.

“Okay, Mom,” I reply. “I’ll come home after calling Phineas.”

Phineas and I rush home, arriving within moments of each other. We exchange quiet smiles, hurry upstairs, and find my mother beaming.

“You’re just in time,” she says. “Your babies are about to hatch.”

Phineas stands behind me, arms around my shoulders, as we watch the nest. After what feels like an eternity, the three eggs begin to crack, pieces breaking away until our offspring emerge—small, delicate, but full of life.

“What names did you pick?” my mother asks.

I look at Phineas. “We decided on George, Douglas, and Ciel.”

“Those are beautiful names, sweetie. I’m proud to be their grandmother,” she says, smiling at the chicks.

In the days that follow, Phineas and I take parental leave and savor time with our raven infants—even if the new responsibilities sometimes feel overwhelming. With a custom stroller and supplies in tow, one afternoon we head to the Lotus bookstore.

Seeing the stroller, Eugene and Magid come from behind the counter. Their faces are beaming with joy.

“I heard about the hatching some time ago,” Eugene says. “It’s a delight to finally see you and your hatchlings.”

“They look so healthy!” Magid adds.

“Thank you,” I reply, gently stroking my babies.

“They’re absolutely adorable,” Phillips says, emerging from the back with Lucian.

“You should bring them by more often,” Lucian says. “Many of us would love to help babysit.”

“Thanks,” Phineas says. “We’d appreciate that.”

Surrounded by friends, we savor the vitality of new life and the warmth of their support. Phineas and I look forward to building our lives together. The store fills with joy, shared by everyone.