Dear Niravadhi()The Time of Pregnancy and Birthing

[Lonestar]

These are a series of assorted posts done on the pack chatzy once again while Dris was expecting and while she was birthing.

Dris()Leaves crinkled all around the grotto, raven peaks flickering apprehensively with each time the sound came anew, which was every few seconds for the breeze rustled the fallen debris almost constantly before it blew rebellious hairs of the essa's coat away from the main mass. Weight shifted slightly as a low growl escapes, muzzle tucking itself underneath hind leggings as the fatal curled into an even tighter ball, or at least what would have been tighter had the ever growing belly not been in the way. The lass did not like being without Niravadhi around, especially at a time like this when her anger would be easily triggered due to the slight hormone imbalance. Worries that normally entered into her mind, did. It seemed like a never ending circle of fears that plagued her mind even when hunting, a entertainment that usually gave her peace and pleasure. Too many things in the world could harm the younglings still developing within her stomach and it made Dris paranoid to simply think about it. Luckily, not many had come in contact with her lately and she did not care if her mate was there. After all, he was the father and traditionally would protect both her and the offspring. The concept was amusing to her now. Before, the independent nature of her being and the passiveness of her companions made it easy for them to coexist with her being the dominant figure. Roles seemed to have flipped flopped recently, annoying the fea with how vulnerable she felt towards the outside world.

[Lonestar]

Snow Angel*Czarina of Hades and Hera of Arcadia, where of no match for the blood raged empresses of these lands. For a foe among rivals, not a hero in sight. The lupine of alabaster. Asleep in the lair, I breathe not a sound. My muscles move not an inch, as I listen and listen carefully. Every creek, every pop, any movement is heard. Not a sound unread by my ever listening drums. Daylight calls for me to wake. Now my skin fights to wake me from my drifting slumber. Bumps form on the surface of the dermis as my body begins to shiver against the earth. Appendages unfold slightly to shuffle up the tunnel of my lair so that I could take a peek outside. Once to the top, I scanned the meadow. Indeed summer had ended and brought with it the death of foliage. One by one a leaf discolored from shades of emerald to crimson to halcyon. The foul hint of amber marked their end. A world of color has forming beneath the tree’s canopies. I slouched down in the sod from where I stood, to bask in the sun’s soft rays. As my body heated up from the cool air underground I created mental blueprints of my day. I wished for a kill to sooth my aching dry throat. Ah, yes. That would do. I hopped to my feet and scurried down the small hill that led to the dens of the fellow canines. As I strode pass I relished not a soul lurked around. Slowing to a stop I eyed a den with movement. I moved closer to the entrance and circled to its back. I lowered myself down so that my nostrils could identify the creature that moved within its walls. I knew Adah’s pups lived in here but they where to petite to make such a racket. The smell was familiar but not in recent times. The perfume was of her. The one who left. Plans of attack filled my mind. Each one ended in gore. Before I could follow through I heard dirt crushing behind me. I glared over my shoulder expecting to see someone but instead I saw the gaping hole to the chamber of Nira. I knew he was not in, perhaps going over the border control. I left the female who wished to sneak in, to herself as I headed towards the one I had learned be named Dris. The mate of Nira. I came to a halt, just outside her home. My breath exhaled. Dris. The words where simply, but alerted her of my being.

[Lonestar]

Niravadhi::The pale light of dawn was barely creeping across the horizon as I made my familiar patrol of the western border. It was the final stretch I was to complete, for the other borders had been controlled only a few days ago. Padders fall upon the cool turf in a regular beat of two, banner hanging easily around my hocks, as springy steps carry me ever onwards. No thought is given to where mitts are placed, for the path had been worn down well over the past year from my frequent passing through. Dome is shaken gently to send a wayward leaf back onto its final journey towards the ground, the soft tones of amber and ochre filling the forest with the message that winter was on its way. Kissers quirk into a gentle smile, for the cycle of the seasons was almost analogous to my checking the pack boundaries. Although, my period was markedly shorter than at of the seasons. I went on my wanderings once every one to two weeks, just to make sure. Rarely something occurred, but I knew that I would never be able to forgive myself for not having done all in my power to remain watchful. A cool breeze runs through my robe, sending a slight shiver along the spinal region. My coat had already begun to thicken, yet there was still ample time for the new pelt to wrap me snugly against the cold winter. Not that this winter would be nearly as bad as the ones I had experienced in my youth. I had long since grown accustomed to the short daylight hours with wreaths of fog and bitter winds, my senses learning how to navigate myself safely through the harshest of winter gales or snowstorms. No, I didn’t think I would experience a winter like that again…or at least, not in a hurry. Nostalgic expression is painted upon guise as I trot onwards. In a way, it was a shame, for the world looked so different when everything was blindingly white and crystal clear. But there had always been a distinct safety hazard associated with winter. How easy it was to lose your grip on a sheet of ice, or be blown of a precipice in the midst of a full-flung gale. I didn’t bother trying to count the number of deaths I had heard about, both from our pack and those of our neighbours. A healthy body and a healthy mind kept most of us through the bitter days with a distinct lack of food. But when spring returned, life was all the more enjoyable, the more precious. At this, a new train of thought crossed my intelligence, a dark shadow with silver orbs floating in my mind’s eye. Ah, there was no denying that life was precious now. Not so much mine, as hers. And perhaps, soon, those that would look up at us. I was reaching the halfway mark, preparing to cut across the lands to make my way back to the camp and my loved one, when a foreign scent lands upon my nasal passageways, causing haunches to act as brakes. Once structure reaches a halt, snout is lowered towards the ground, catching the faint wisps of an unknown dove. Intellect is immediately focused on analysing the data, for there was little use in running straight to Snow, only to say I didn’t have the answers to any questions she had. Brow furrows as an answer to the lass’ time of entrance is calculated. It had not been long after I had patrolled the borders last. Turning to follow the trail in an attempt to discern where the maid had travelled next, I reach a boggy patch that successfully ended the trail. Stupid rain, I scowl, looking at the turf in a final attempt to gain information. Lip curls in slight annoyance when nothing is found, before haunches tense beneath me. Half a moment later, I was darting through the woodlands at a steady canter, my long legs covering the ground with ease. Just before entering the camp, I slowed to an elastic walk, my breathing only a touch faster from my exertion. At least, if all else failed, I was in good shape, I mused. Narrow torso is pushed between a bramble thicket, allowing me to enter the sunlit glade. Padders set the course towards the ranee’s den, before a familiar glimpse of white and the corresponding scent catches my attention. Turning about, I spy the two lady’s I was most anxious to see. Snow, for passing on my newly gleamed information, and Dris, simply because she was Dris. Making my way towards them, smile graces my features for a moment, as I dip my head in greeting to my alabaster dove, before ribbon darts forwards to run gently across an ebonite cheek. Good day I say politely, rump lowering to the ground. Snow, I was just passing the western border, when I was alerted to the arrival of a fae. I’m not sure where she came from as such, nor where she was headed, but she entered the pack grounds about five days ago. Tenor vocals are allowed to subside while I waited for my leader’s judgement. I did not think this newcomer meant harm, though it wasn’t exactly my place to make such judgements.

[Lonestar]

Dris()Lobes lay flat against tiara as the lass is pulled from her ever hyperactive state of mind at the sounds that the changes in seasons did not create. Padders were drawling nearer to the heart of the camp, causing chin to lift from the ground while neck twisted backwards to look at the impending arrival. Upper lip quivered, even in her state of pregnancy the damsel ready to do battle. Perhaps the urge was even stronger now that there was more than just her own life to preserve. Formation rolled from one side to the other with a little difficultly, the maiden, scowling as her belly fought against this action. This is growing ever irritating. Thankfully, she did not have long until the time to conceive would be upon her and then nothing in the world could stop the contractions the vixen knew well would cause intense suffering. Often times, before coming here, the Evil Angel had often wondered why the female gender had to carry the brunt of the burden of procreating. All the males had to do was supply their sperm while the fatal’s abdomens grew large, their size hindered their ability to move, and shouldered the pain of pushing little beasts from their insides. A bleached coat flashed through the trees, peaks moving to stand erect as nasal passages widened to bring in the scent. Frown formed immediately and malice filled features dropped all pretensions. Adah? The other girl had been gone from the pack lands for months now, her pups without a mother unless Rouge could be considered a replacement. Although, the sister to the alpha had been supplying both her own offspring and Tykel's with nourishment, Dris did not believed this allowed her to replace the role Adah had been dealt the moment she became impregnated. Iron surfaces watched as the varg moved slowly towards the den entrance, hesitating for a second before disappearing halfway into the depths. A slow smile pulled across lips at the sight. Ah, so the newly returned wolf still held her reservations and her worries. It was the price that had to be paid, even if it were a sad one for that little group. Then, another scent was lifted to her through the breeze and gaze turned to land upon yet another pearl hued bodice. It was strange, three of the fea's who resided her were all white and at times it was hard to discern the difference between them if one simply had a singular glance and nothing else to go off of. At first, it seemed the queen was moving towards the old sorceress, but then her path changed, moving in the direction of slayer. Ah, crap. Thoughts raced as position shifted upward, crown lifting proudly. It was against her character to submit and even in this state; the matron would hardly let the overlady forget it. Snow. Came the usual emotionless reply. Pair lifted easily to meet the alpha's emeralds, expression almost blank even though the slight glow of pregnancy could not be kept from coal features. Silence stretched on a bit, ears flickering this way and that as a way to occupy the rather bored mother to be. Soon, however, splitting of twigs and the well know aroma caught her attention and alerted the lady to her mate's arrival, wolfish grin spreading instantly across features and jaws parting to let tongue dangle from the side of maw when anxious liquids landed upon the roan pelt. A soft bark was given to him in greeting while the baron still made his way towards the grotto. Happy excitement filled cage, the duchess hardly able to hold herself still while she waited for his last few strides to bring her beloved to her side once again. Plume thumped against the earth and muzzle buried itself into thick nape once the duke halted before her, saliva covered ribbon running over her cheek before his attentions turned towards Snow Angel. Business needed to come first and Dris was luckily in a good enough mood to let such a needed conversion between her lover and their guest take place.

[Lonestar]

Adah|What should she do? Should she say something to them, an assurance of her love or should she remain speechless, and leave? No, she couldn't leave them, not now. Moving deeper into the darkened depth of the natural home of the little ones. They at least looked healthy. She would have to thank Rouge for that, but was that her place? Fate didn't leave the anxious mother to worry any longer. " Dris." The whisper of sound came from the outside world. Harks flattened on instant at the tone. It wasn't an excited exclamation of warm greeting, nor a hostile declaration of challenge. A simple statement that the alphess knew the fatale to be outside. Dris and Snow? Before she would have grinned widely, and crept outside to watch the two face off from the safety of the shadows. The two were a comical show of pure mule-like stubbornness, and pride. Neither one would submit to the other, or give an inch of ground. Even now, a small smile spread across the maiden's lips at the memory. A simple reply answered. "Snow." The monotone lyrics replied, increasing the grin on the former sorceress's profile. Frame was shuffled forward at an attempt at stealth. There was a reason the exuberant pup had failed miserably at any attempt of stalking. Adah much rather prefer run her prey into the ground. It was much more straightforward, and frankly, the idea of being still for any extended period of time was not on her agenda. This female had places to go and people to see. Speaking of those people, cobalt gaze touched down on the coal frame of Dris, and her mate, Niravadhi. Adah had always tolerantly viewed Nira as an adopted uncle, though in truth he was closer to her brother, Aden, then herself. In the beginning, she had resented him and his voice of wisdom. As she grew older, she had grown to appreciate it more. At last she set sights on her leader, Snow Angel. Spit fire, and sass. Adah commented dryly, holding back a snicker. How did she view the Ranee? At times, it was a distant, disgruntled view of her as the one who held power over her. Others, she felt kinship with the ivory lady. The hesitation returned. Walking out there, would be the same as walking out onto the minefield. Snow Angel would certainly resent her, maybe Dris as well. Nira, she had never viewed as a violent lupine, so she was sure she could count him out of the fight, unless his beloved was included. Sapphires examined the bulging belly, then counted Dris as well, out of the fight. That only left Snow Angel. Still not a comforting match up. A timid step forward carried her body out of the shadows, eyes locked on the Ranee's figure.

[Lonestar]

Snow Angel*It was rather engaging and comical whenever the soon to be commander and I communicated. Even being in the same presents of each other was intriguing. I scanned over her torso. Her abdomen was budging. Glancing back to her eyes I wagged my brows and struggled not to laugh. I never expected such a sin from this creature. She never did seem to be the motherly type. From the forestry came a crack. A large animal of some sort was approaching where we stood. I had no reason to try and figure out who was coming for Dris became delighted. Rolling back on my heels I allowed Nira to enter and greet his beloved. Soon his attentions moved towards myself. He spoke of a lupine that had entered our lands. My thoughts hesitated on the matter before I spoke. "Well, we have had a lot of new comers upon the land. Perhaps it was someone that you have yet to meet. Even if it is a stranger, I believe as soon as they notice the scent of our numbers they will turn back. My eyes fell upon the fertile female. I also believe that if a stranger where to walk in and saw her. They would be quick to make a run for it. After all, who would want to mess with an expecting female? None the less, one named Dris. Drums hummed to the pitter patter of someone slithering in behind us. Was she attempting to be silent? I had no need to turn around to face the canine. Her perfume had already given her identified away. Still not facing her, a smile formed upon my lips. Each pearly white tooth gleamed though my gums. Adah dear. I called out, now choosing to turn around to face the girl. Hello there. I spoke again this time rising from the sod to step over to her. As I moved closer my smile grew larger. Where have you been? Ah, call forth the interrogation.

[Lonestar]

Niravahi::I press my bodice against the rounded form of my mate. I had tried to be as quick as possible on my rounds, knowing that this far along in the pregnancy cycle, dames often sought comfort, or had a craving that needed immediate attention. I smiled ruefully, thinking back at all the scenes I had watched in my past. A bright smile paints its way upon my guise at Dris’ exuberant welcome. It did my heart good to know that we shared something that not all vargs had the fortune to share. Hearing Snow out, I nod my head in reply. Her answer was as good as I would get, kissers twitching slightly at the mention of Dris. Pregnant or not, she was not someone you wanted to cross. A gentle smirk slowly hides the bright smile, although sapphires burn ever brighter. It was amusing how Dris and Snow refused to back down even by the width of a toenail. Snow, because she was alpha and set in her ways, and Dris…because she was Dris. I had learned that her youth had not exactly been easy, so her stubbornness was probably most easily attributed to that. Something that I would not complain about, since otherwise my other half would either no longer be alive, or in the clutches of some other brute. Snout is lowered to run gently through the ebonite wisps at her nape, scenter inhaling her perfume. Watching her rounded belly, I felt a sudden wave of guilt, at the fact that she had to carry the greatest burdens. I had only now bothered to think of it, and now that I did, I was seriously regretting my decision of taking part in the consummation of partnership. I had had to do one, small act. The one act that would bring three months of discomfort….well, perhaps a little less than three months…..and then at least a year of education. At least I would be able to help with the education aspect, I mused, muzzle still pulling its path through my maiden’s cloak. But with the pain of birthing….I hadn’t a clue. Not that I was going to ask anyone….but the last time I heard, mates could get very vindictive in response to the labour pains…..and Dris was vindictive enough without her pups if you put her mind to it. A soft sigh is emitted from maw, dome pulling upwards at the slight shifting sound of a body close by. Nares scan the air for the cause of said disturbance, before Snow’s lyrics suddenly allow the puzzle to fall into place, without myself doing much at all. Adah. How long had it been since I had last seen her? Too long…especially since she had had pups of her own that she had supposed to nourish and care for. Dome twists to allow cobalts to fall upon the sheepish figure of the young lass I had watched grow up. Looking upon her pale form, I found it difficult to be upset. A twinge of regret and disappointment lay within my orbs, easily readable to those who thought to look. I would not condemn her, for she had gathered the courage to return to the pack, but I would not lie and say that I would welcome her back unconditionally. She had let down her mate, but more importantly, she had abandoned her pups. With my fatherhood approaching imminently, I suddenly realised the enormity of such an action. And yet….what would cause a mother to do such a thing. Perhaps she had been scared of the responsibility it brought. I could not know, but I knew for certain that I harboured that little fear as well. Except I would fight it with all my determination to do my mate justice. Then again, her family had not necessarily been a happy one. She had grown far closer to her brother than her parents, and she had no taken the departure of her father with much grief. Perhaps that was another cause for her disappearance, that she felt she could not do justice to the term of family, after all she had experienced and witnessed. I could only hope that she had come back with the right reasons, for wanting to raise her family with pride and love, no matter the difficulties that lay ahead. Sorrowed orbs rest upon Adah for a long time, vocal chords remaining eerily silent. Finally, they begin to vibrate softly, tenor vocals soft as sapphires lock onto the other’s icy gems. Welcome back, Adah. You shall meet no hostility from me, as you may have guessed. But I hope you know what you came back for. Life is a precious gift that should not be wasted in vain. Rump is pulled from the turf, two strides taking me towards the petite princess. Muzzle passes briefly across her shoulder in a gesture of comfort and support, before steps are retraced and roan structure is seated beside my mate once more.

[Lonestar]

Dris()Carnivorous grin spread across kissers as the leadess parted her lips in answer to the brute, mentioning the raven lass in doing so. A not so strange malicious glint lit silver depths, looking quite odd upon the features of a wolven with child. Ah, it is true; nature of beasts cannot be hidden even in situations which draw out the opposite in all. It was good the bleached queen recognized this. Such a pity it would be if she allowed herself or any other to cross the dark lady's path with the foolish misconception that the maiden would not lash out in return. Ah, well spoken Snow Angel. Musing vocals teased slightly as the fierce expression slowly faded away, lids slowly lowering over depths as muscles relaxed at the soft caresses of a mate. Some things in life between lovers were meant to be enjoyed, even in the presence of another who was not a part of the duo. With orbs hidden from the world, the essa began to fade away from the present, letting her mind engulf her for once as thousands of different thoughts started to flow though, this time in an organized, steady pace, not overwhelming the baroness with things to sort through. Without warning, one strain in particular dawned upon the slayer and stuck, dismissing all other fragments of mind instantly. Niravadhi was hers. Hers until the day they died or until he decided her attitude was too much to live with constantly. Amused smile danced upon guise. The poor brute. He knew naught yet what he had committed himself to. Dris was lucky the lord loved her, although, if one asked the male, he would have switched it around to say he was lucky that she loved him. One strange word comes to mind when thinking of these two; twiterpated. Hazy lyrics float into the fea's out of touch state, forcing shades upward and liquids to move in search of the figure of the being who was now addressed by the alpha. Adah. The younger varg, who was not much younger than the Evil Angel, had not been around for quite some time, her absence not being missed even by the most detached member of the pack. It was hard not to judge, now that her own belly ballooned with the promise of tomorrow, but the coal vixen tried her best to stay out of the situation. None of it really concerned her and besides, the newly returned fatal and she hardly knew each other. The rest made up the family, for now. Something inside of the matron told her that after the birth of her offspring, her world would be turned upside down and many things would not be as they had been before. Harks flickered from Adah's direction to Snow's as the later ivory creature addressed the other, inquiring whereabouts before shifting of weight from behind caused peaks to shift attention instantly, neck twisting while mercury depths searched for the roan coat of her partner, tiara tilting in curiosity at his hindquarters as the drake stepped over her and headed towards the sorceress, emitting his own form of welcome. Pair watched until carcass disappeared from her vision again as it moved behind her, the comforting heat returning in a sudden wave that form leaned into involuntarily. The urge to give her own greeting to her fellow female nearly pushing her to do so, but the awkwardness she knew she would feel at doing so keeping the lady from making a fool of herself. Syllables arranged themselves in her head better when the times called for sharp wit, not guiding wisdom. That was more Nira's area.

[Lonestar]

Adah|Remember that 'not so comforting matchup'? Yeah, it was terrifying now. Adah felt naked and vulnerable before her former friends. What should she say? What could she say? Glacier locked on the first speaker, Snow Angel, who greeted her as a cat would to a mouse before dinner. " Good evening, Snow Angel. I see your disposition certainly hasn't improved." Adah commented dryly, receiving a comforting surge of confidence. This was the same old, Snow, she had bantered with before. As the alphess stepped forward, Adah steeled herself not to step back. Even so, her discomfort at the closer distance within striking range was surely obvious. " Here and there, you know. Seeing the world as my brother once said he would." Aden, ah, dear Aden. Where was he now? With the thoughts of Aden, came the voice of Nira. He spoke of welcome, and reassurance, but the emotions in his eyes were all but those. They held such sorrow and pity, that she wanted to snarl with rage. From a very young age, pity was the worst thing you could feel for the young wolf. Adah could handle people being angry at her, but to pity her? It is, Uncle. I have learned my mistake, and I will gladly pay any price my family requires of me for that important lesson." Lyri were expressed with an emotionless profile, but fury swirled with fear raged through her veins. Niravadhi pitied her, and Snow Angel resented her. A dry grin curled the lips of the sorceress. At this rate, she wouldn't be here long. Cobalt chasms inspected the widened stature of the fearsome lady known as Dris, then grinned at Nira. " Congratulations. It looks like you will be a father soon." Adah conveyed to her adopted Uncle, haunches folding to press her rump onto the forest floor. " How has the pack been? I trust no one has gotten eaten by any grizzlies since I left." Jest as she may towards Nira, her gaze often strayed to stare warily at the other ivory maiden. Even with her new confidence, Adah realized the threat that the Ranee could present, and knew it to be true, all too well.

Snow Angel*Like a crazy eyed hare caught in-between a hard place and it’s soon to be killer Adah showed she was not scared on the outside. Though, just by looking at her you were unable to tell what emotions that where hollering on the inside. Hesitation and motivation where all that I could in fact see from the girl. But, just as I had expected from her was the witty comment that rolled off her tongue. Ah, now that was the pup I once knew. “What kind of welcoming committee would I be otherwise?” My lyrics where smooth as they responded to her. As I tip toed closer I could see that her moment of confidence was weakening as she struggled to not step back from my approach. My lips curled back up into the grin as I stopped my advance closer to the lady. Here and there, you know. Seeing the world as my brother said he would. As her voice hushed to the end I quickly began to process this. I could not find any fault in seeing the mysterious of the planet but her timing was rather poor if I must say so. My interrogation of Adah had ended as I no longer paid any attention to her. I fell into my thoughts about the offspring that she had, I’m sure, intentionally abandoned. The motherhood and fatherhood was thriving at the current time. Adah, the youngest of our unrelated family had brought forward a brood herself. Perhaps her absence from them was from pure immaturity. Maybe, her mind was still in teenage mood, confused as to what exactly to do with the squealing objects. I was around the same age as Adah when I had become a mother. I was not completely lost as to what to do but none of them had survived to adult hood. My second litter had a better chance for one of the three had survived under my care. My only living son had been removed from me when he was just a pup. Probably for the better. I knew Adah was lucky for she could leave her children under the watchful eyes of the extended family. The luxuries of living in a pack. From behind me I managed to pick up the harsh lyrics coming from the one I had talked to not long ago. Now turning to face the others I could see Adah mingling with her adopted uncle. She seemed to notice Nira’s thoughts and was very unpleased with them. Their conversation did not call for a word from me just yet so once more I relaxed down into the vegetation. As I laid still and quiet from behind, I watched the soon to be parents, imagining their offspring. Nira, the shy-ish one, and Dris the opinionated one. The first thing that came to my mind where two tiny pups. A small pup was counting the pieces of dirt that fell to the ground as the other collected fur from its siblings back to make a warm bed for itself. Intelligent pups with a bite. What really had me wondering, would they be little angels or little demons? As I watched over Dris I couldn’t help my raise my brow. To me, Nira’s genes where going to have a hell of a hard time finding a place to fit in.

[Lonestar]

Niravadhi::A soft sigh passes silently through my chasms upon hearing Adah’s emotionless reply. It was polite….almost too polite for the ivory princess, and I wondered whether she had somehow misinterpreted my gaze or my words. Though in the end, I guessed it mattered very little. She had accepted that she had made an erroneous decision and was prepared to deal with the consequences. I couldn’t ask any more from her. What bothered me far more greatly was Adah’s reference to her brother. I supposed it was up to me to explain to her that her brother had left, for Aden had only really confided in myself, before he left the lands that reminded him of so much grief. I felt a deep sense of loss at the dark knight’s leaving, for the two of us had been so very alike. Aden had almost become a son to myself, especially after my dear friend Pur had left the encampment. In retrospect, they had been a very sad family. There had been no evident dislike or fighting, and yet still everything seemed to crumble apart. Whatever was to happen in my future in respect to my family, I knew that it was such disintegration that I would have to keep away at all costs. Structure leans more closely into Dris’ swollen side, seeking the comfort that her gentle heat granted me. My sombre thoughts are startled to a halt upon hearing Adah’s words directed at myself again. For a brief moment, silence stretches between us as I processed what exactly she had said before a bright smile forms upon my features, although a slight hint of hesitancy is clearly visible within my clear sapphire lanterns. Thank you Adah. I reply warmly, my gaze straying to meet a silvery pair, before ribbon flicks discreetly across a sooty lobe. At Adah’s continued speech, I turned back to her, a smile still playing upon my lips. The pack has been well, and no-one has been attacked by said beastie. Lyrics pause for a moment, while cheeky expression is flashed towards my mate. Though I suppose I will be kept on my toes well enough by a certain other creature A small smirk settles upon my façade, as I turn back to my mate and press my flank more forcefully against her ebonite one. For a quiet moment I relax into the touch, only to leap to the side in shock as the rounded abdomen of my partner shakes violently. Surprised yelp is released from between kissers, as gems remained glued at the offending body part, before wary gaze is turned towards my mate. Was that movement normal? I had felt slight vibrations before, as our little angel’s wreaked havoc within their home, but never before had they created so much mayhem. You had better behave yourselves I think warningly, not wanting Dris to suffer too much discomfort at our offspring’s antics. Upon seeing my love’s expression however, any thoughts of misbehaving pups are thrown out the window as I step closer to my mate in grave concern.

[Lonestar]

Dris()Silver caves watch the proceedings blankly, the words spoken by each wolven passing through her brain without much thought given to them, until the younger lass spoke outward at the maiden's mate, her previously playful syllables now blank and unfeeling. Such was her way, not this one’s way. Orbs jumped instantly to attention, staring relentlessly at Adah. Sapphire depths held resentment and anger. Hackles raise then, if only slightly, the instinct to attack, to protect becoming the foremost source of power, but the lass was able to hold herself back, merely dropping her dome a bit and flashing pointed daggers at the other from behind blackened lips. Even weighed down, no fight would be put off. This point the essa chose to make clear. Muscles tightened, ready for action if such was called for; waiting for the bleached fatal to make the intentions of what she would do next clear. The bloke would try to stop her, this was an inevitable occurrence, and perhaps the alphaess would as well. Neither would succeed. Bodice relaxed a bit as lyricals once more turned teasing, the sorceress pointing out the ebon lady's current condition and congratulating her mate. Smile spreads across slate guise, pools jutting towards the male as his sentence reached her lobes and extra weight is distributed to her side, a mischievous growl vibrating cords in reply. Ah yes, a beast of a different kind, I am. Smug tunes emit, pair still watching the baron while inside of her, children begin to stir, wiggling against her tightly pulled skin. For a moment attention shifts to bulging abdomen, dome tilting curiously at the younglings beneath coat, but gaze is soon jerked back towards Niravadhi as her lover jumps away in a frightened manner, a surprised expression lifting upwards towards him, remaining there for a few moments before recognition starts to set in. Chuckles escape at her lover's antics, but are soon cut short as a violent spasm shakes her diaphragm, an unexpected gasp of pain escaping suddenly parted lips. What was wrong with her? The pups had moved around and kicked out before and nothing like this had ever happened. Uncertain steels look towards her mate for an answer, even as she knew he could offer none. They then jump to the younger damsel, resting there before moving to look at Snow, another wave of pain rocking through her frame as this game of questioning with her eyes continued. A groan in released, the Evil Angel flopping helplessly onto her side, cheek resting against the cool sod. Lids shut over surfaces, blocking out the images, but not the sounds, although those did not come to her as clearly as they had before either. Senses brought in information in a diluted form; mind not able to process the strands for it was focused on locating the source of such abrupt agony.

[Lonestar]

Adah|Birth. Harks drew flat at the signs the fatale showed. A powerful shudder rocked the mistress of evil, otherwise known as a contraction. An accompanying shudder rocked the former sorceress. During her training, birth had been a horrible lesson. It was always so painful, so horrifyingly graphic that her father had skipped the lesson entirely, leaving it up to Adah to learn through experience. Cobalt gems met silver briefly, and in that brief moment, guilt and worry coursed through her veins. Under normal circumstances, Adah would have told the mother-to-be that there was basically nothing she could do. Nature would instinctively guide the mother through her process. All she and the father-to-be could do was watch, comfort, and soothe the distress female through this difficult time. In extreme cases, there was a herb to speed the process but it both endanger the offspring and mother, so Adah never resorted to it unless it was absolutely dire that she do so. The mother lowered herself to the ground, perhaps not in the most careful of manner but certainly effective none the less. A groan of pain was emitted into the air, and Adah shot Nira a glance. It was the mate's place to comfort the mother, not hers. Most likely, the former sorceress would be snarled away for any attempt, because she was a stranger and the mother's senses would be distorted and confused. A hawk screeched from above, bringing up the concern of where they were in this precise moment. In the open, exposed. It was too late to move Dris, but the pack would have to keep their eyes open for any danger for the vulnerable. At a loss of what to say, and whether she should say anything, Adah mumbled. "It's going to be okay. Just go with your instincts."

Snow Angel*Life seemed so simple but it was hard to bring about and it could be murdered in the matter of a minute. The gift was so fragile. No matter how hard one could try to wrap it up behind steel bars, you could never protect it against its end. The miserable contractions would be the only beginning of the agony to come. The weight a mother must bear, the prices we must pay. One would think that a daughter, a sight-seer, a bystander would soon come to realize that a night of bliss with a knight was not all fun in games. Like a statue I had not moved an inch from my pose, the only thing to awaken me from my deepening thoughts was the cry of labor. As the fog unclouded from my vision I stared right into the eyes of the concerned female. My head crocked to the side for I became slightly confused as her look was so pleading. I remained quiet as I watched the look of the girl, I felt so guilty for her. There was nothing I could do to ease her discomfort. I left the commanders features to take a glance at the father-to-be; he seemed to be regretful of his choice to give into the lady. From experience I knew his remorse for what he had done would soon turn into delight when his eyes would come across the tiny face of the darling offspring. Even for Dris, she would soon discover the pain was well worth it. Now returning my intention back to the lass I began to conjure up a plan of action. It’s going to be okay. Just follow your instincts. Allowing myself to look towards the speaker I issued out the first command. Adah, would you mind taking a quick stroll through the boundaries and then take up post somewhere close. It will be good to give Nira and Dris some space. If you would like, set up post close enough so you can observe. Just be on the lookout. Once more I rested my sights on the couple. Just hang in there sweetie, focus on Nira. I always admired mother hood and the bitches who where able to withstand it. Dris might not of liked my comment but I could not help but show a caring side for the soon to be mom. Lifting up from which I laid, I lumbered off in search of something quick that the beta would be able to consume when she was done with the birthing. I knew that was the job Koga use to do for myself when I was going through the motherly experience but I never did enjoy being left alone at that time. I did not want Dris to feel all alone in the process like I had. Nira’s only business now was to comfort his mate and await the little demons or angel’s to be.

[Lonestar]

Niravadhi::Worry is etched deeply into my features as I eyed my mate for a heartbeat longer. The pain in her silvery orbs was so unusual that it made me feel all the worse for not being able to help in any form. It wasn’t exactly my fault that things had come as they had come, for it was the evil angel that had wanted the pups as well. Any other thoughts are banished from my mind as I stride forward with a confidence that belied my inner turmoil. I barely heard Adah’s mutterings, despite the fact that she had trained as a healer. Nor did I hear Snow’s orders. As the two pale femmes drifted away, I bent over my mate gingerly, not wanting to incite any unpleasant feelings be being too close, or too sudden or whatever. The fates had never blessed the male race with an understanding for what occurred within the female’s mind during birthing. Yet no amount of stories that I had heard retold, of mates threatening to beat the living daylights out of you, or the, as I had come to understand it, the castration of the being that had caused the lass all the pain, could stop me from lowering my snout gently and run it slowly through the thick ebonite locks at her nape. Limbs fold beneath me as I press my flank against her back in order to give her something to lean against, as well as give her a form of anchor. Muzzle runs tenderly across all of the coal expanse I could reach, before snout came back towards a flopped lobe to murmur words of comfort. Ribbon creeps out of its den to sweep slowly across the maid’s features, the loving caresses telling her more than words on how much I wished that I could ease her pain. As I pressed my bodice against hers, feeling each contraction as her body vibrated heavily, I suddenly realised why I loved the stubborn lady so much. Not only were the two of us so beautifully similar and at the same time, total opposites…but she was in the process of proving that no amount of pain could sever the tie between us. Perhaps she would lose control of her tongue at some point in the labour process, yet I didn’t think that was a true judge of character. Of course you are going to want to curse the being that caused you so much pain and discomfort into oblivion. As my tongue pulls tenderly across her cheekbone, I suddenly remember a song that I had heard in my puphood. A soft, haunting melody that never failed to bring me peace. Barely thinking about what I was doing, for my lover may well be past taking in her surroundings, I rested my snout close to her hark and began to sing softly. The first tones were hesitant, as though I was worried about robbing the song of its justice, yet bit by bit, my voice strengthened, until tenor vocals were left hanging in the atmosphere around us, weaving its spell of calm upon myself if not on anyone else.

[Lonestar]

Dris()Breathing had accelerated quickly, the situation becoming even more bizarre for the maiden as time progressed. By now, she had realized the inevitable; contractions of labor were the cause of such pain that rocked her body as nothing else ever had. It was a good thing she had collapsed earlier. Having to deal with the ripples of muscles tensing at different intervals that always seemed to grow closer together while standing up would not have been one of the lass' best ideas. Murmurs could be heard from the other lady's standing by, three pair of sapphires staring down at the ebony fatal as if she were from freak show they could not take their eyes off of. Steel met each one briefly before jerking away, lids closing over depths to fight against another wave. This had been coming, it was not something Dris had taken lightly or overlooked, but birthing had been an underestimated employment. Naively, the essa had thought she would take it as she had any other sort of pain, blocking it from her mind and gritting her teeth to keep any sort of weak noise from escaping. The source was too great however and frankly, she did not care if vocal cords cried out in affliction. More muttering came to her from what seemed another world in which the others lived, the damsel not even caring to see who spoke this time. A warm pressure from outside of the raven figure came suddenly to her side, dome jerking up off the floor and iron pools searching frantically for the source till they landed upon the roan duke. Surfaces softened and frame relaxed as much was possible in the current predicament, cranium swivelling until chin rested upon lanky limbs of a lover. Serenity flooded through system then, a sort of peace settling upon the mother while her children pushed towards the light, their father laying beside her and comforting her only as he could. Lobe is soon hidden within his nape as harder contractions begin, perfectly kept knives pushing against another with such force that one was bound to chip. Tape is felt upon her cheek and lyrics of a song heard, but neither really matter. Niravadhi was there, that was all she needed. As the longest spasm so far drew to a close and the fea finally able to breathe, a curse was let loose from lips, tired pair gazing up at the male. Oh how the gods must be laughing in their thrones. Crude smile pulled across features before it was replaced by a grimace, muscles pushing against the little carcasses inside abdomen until the first's muzzle is exposed to the air. After that, breaks between the work came shorter, one little slimy body sliding out onto the sod, and a second before the waves subsided and a heavy sigh was released, the ordeal finished, but the job only just beginning. After a moment’s pause, the Evil Angel trying to quickly regain her breath, figure rolls up onto underbelly, head directed behind the maiden at the small, sack surrounded beings that lay in the dust. Instinct forced the maiden to her feet, head dropping towards the pups as ribbon set to work, the protective covering breaking easily under the pressure. As tongue cleaned both bodied off, it became evident that both of the offspring resembled their grandmother in coat appearance, their light silvery strands catching the daylight. It was too bad that the parents would have to wait a few days to see what eyes the young ones would have. Such a thing was always important. Attention turned towards Nira as a broad, proud grin came to lips, vocals cooing to her mate as jowls parted to release sound. Come love. Meet your son and daughter. Chest swelled at the words and patiently, the essa waited for him to join her, dancing silvers looking down upon the nearly identical younglings while the names she had chosen for them rose to the forefront of her mind. Dear Faolyn and Lyulf. Motherly lyrics said, snout nuzzling the tiny bodies as she spoke their names.

[Lonestar]

Lyulf::My peace is ruptured. I go, rather abruptly, from being suspended, still, content, in tune with my mama's every movement, every breath to... Change. I'm moving. It's out of control, yet my small bod is still. That's what has to be. There is tightness. There is a brief burst of pain, and then, then there is cold. I don't like it. It's hard, and rough, and I should be doing something, something important... Gentle flexy touches my protection, scraping it away. I open my tiny, soft maw, and let out a disconcerted yowl. No! I want that back! Tiny limbs flail, meeting far less resistance then I'm used to. I squeak, squeal, wail, as wet leaves my sacs, to be replaced by cold, odd, shifty. There's something else I can do, too. Funny ticklies are in my maw, my throat. One belongs to my mama. The rest are alien. Beats, beats like from inside the warm, the warm I so desire to be back in, they surround me, clearer, but their message still incomprehensible. I let forth another shriek. I don't like this! Not at all! Padders close, unfurl as I meet resistance, I kick out. So much going on... So much out of my control.

Niravadhi::As one song comes to an end, I seamlessly move on to another, my tenor vocals never ceasing their soothing sounds as my bodice absorbed each contraction of the black queen beside me. At the lass’ words, I smile down at her fondly, sapphires twinkling merrily at seeing that my Dris was still there. More likely, they are cursing that their plan to make you break has failed I answer back, snout running along her nape and shoulder before ribbon returns to caress her features. The contractions grew harder and more frequent, my heart beating against my ribcage in a manner so furious I thought it was about to jump from its cage. Then a new scent permeates the air, bringing my thoughts abruptly to the cause of the foreign aroma. Crown is turned slowly, almost fearfully as I see the exact origin of the scent. A moist bundle of…something…covered in slime and liquid lay at Dris’ rear. Oh gods….the pups. What was I supposed to do with them. Surely they couldn’t breathe in all that liquidly stuff. Limbs refuse to move as I stare in shock at the pups, panic threatening to engulf me yet again. Calm down, calm down, I think furiously, forcing my heart and breathing to slow. It is only then that I notice that my dark angel has left my side. Sapphires scan the area for her shape, before gaze alights on her form, meticulously clearing the slime and blood from the two small bundles of fluff. Her soft words seem to break the spell I was under, pillars snapping up underneath me so quickly I felt dizzy for a moment. Hesitant steps forwards are taken until I am standing beside my mate, staring down at two argentine figures. They looked so small and helpless, I thought, noting how one of the pups seemed to be protesting loudly against being brought into the world. A tender smile forms upon my features as I turn to Dris, my moist tip pressing against hers for a long moment before I drew away. They are beautiful. Just like their mother. Thank you Speech is somewhat hoarse with emotion as I turned my burning sapphire gaze from my mate to look down at our pups. Cautiously, snout moves forwards to run across the two small bodies with a touch lighter than a feather. Scenter draws in the singular scent of the two beings that created the family that Dris and I had awaited. Harks flicker at the sound of Dris’ next words, yet it takes me are longer to process them. Faolyn….Lyulf I say softly, my gaze sliding somewhat out of focus. Scottish names. Dome is raised, allowing my orbs to meet the proud silver gems of my partner. Snout moves forwards as ribbon flicks across one ebonite cheekbone, before crown is cocked to the side. Can I do anything for you? Do you want something to eat? Drink? Do you want a rest? Now that the initial shock at being a father had passed….Wait…I’M A FATHER!!! I felt the need to provide for my family. Although…hadn’t Snow said that she would get something? I couldn’t remember. Ah well. Dris had the final say in this matter, not myself, nor Snow nor anyone else.