Dead Empress Backwater The song of spring

Sharlee had only been a new mother for a couple of weeks now. She was happy to have her three little ones who were currently sleeping in the den. She'd come out for a little sun and fresh air while they didn't need her. The tawny woman hadn't been far from them since their birth. She hated the idea of being too far from them but knew that as time passed things wouldn't remain as they were.

She laid down just outside the birthing den in a nice warm patch of sun. Above her she could hear the birds chirping and all seemed well in the Backwater for once. She knew that soon she'd had to get back to her duties. Then it would be time to start teaching the children what they would know to support the pack.

The Valle woman rolled on to her side and closed her eyes. The warmth of the sun amd chirp of the birds lulling her to sleep.

When Dace awoke, mother was absent and his siblings were tucked against him, still slumbering soundly themselves. He blinked bleary eyes and stretched out his limbs until his tiny toes spread, then stood and gave his thin, stubby fur a shake. Taking a few steps forward, he paused to look back upon his brother and sister, both looking utterly at peace. It crossed his mind to disturb that calm, particularly by body slamming @Jacynth awake, but he'd already tortured his favorite sibling enough earlier in the day. Deciding he would be merciful (this time), Dacian chose instead to head into the light.

When his copper eyes adjusted, he looked around and promptly spotted his mom. A broad grin lit up his dark features and his short tail began to wag wildly, but it wasn't only because he was happy to see her. She appeared to be sleeping as well, giving him the outlet he'd wanted. Dacian scurried over, and clamped his teeth down upon Sharlee's tail.