"You are wonderful with d'Artagnan," says Aramis, and though he's hardly a young boy, he is still very much in need of guidance. "I have seen you look out for him, temper him more than once. Besides, I do not know how strict I will be." Children should be joyful, after all, allowed their freedoms until they come near to harm.

She draws a breath. "I would like them soon," she admits. "As soon as we have room for them. And you?"