Lost Creek Hollow Spring Wind

At just over one-month-old, Shadowpups’ baby-blue eyes had opened. She and @Stormpup grew more active by the day. Eventually, they explored every nook and cranny of the den.

A fresh Spring breeze wafted through the hollow’s entrance, and it sparked Shadowpup’s curiosity. She stuck her head outside of the den’s entrance and peered at the green world outside.

They weren't of her flesh, but she took care of them as if they were because Silvertongue had asked her too.

Today Shadowpup moved about exploring. Stormpup close behind. She hummed softly as they moved about. A small smile on them. She was fine without Ingram. Missed his presence and the familiarity he brought but he had too many demons to be able to love her and the children.

Shadowpup’s care was split between Ashpaw, Crowfeather, and Silvertongue and soon the lines of who was her singular life-giver would be blurred altogether. Today, she gravitated towards Riverclan’s star.

Her big eyes peered at the world outside and then she became scared! Quickly, Shadowpup retreated back into the safety of Ashpaw’s arms. “Ba! ba!” She babbled nervously.

Ash Paw knew somw maybe confused by their dynamic outside of Riverclan, but honestly they were doing well and thriving.

A watchful gaze as the small pup moved towards the den mouth. Though they were swift to return. A gentle paw across her pack, she rubbed gently.

Big out there isn't it. Would you like me to move closer with you?  she creeped gently towards the den mouth and then settled covering it. And if Shadowpup so wished she could flip right in the circle of her fore legs and paws.

Shadowpup’s big doe-eyes looked up to Ashpaw, thankful to have her milk-mother’s support. Though the little one couldn’t speak words or sentences, she certainly understood them. She was an intelligent and bright-minded little girl.

The child nodded emphatically at the question. Yes, I want your support! And when Ashpaw positioned herself, Shadowpup jumped right into her arms. It was the perfect, safe place to watch the outside world go by.

Suddenly, a stellar jay flew past with a noisy flap of its wings and landed on a nearby branch. Shadowpup gasped and ducked her head, as if she were scared it would fly right into the den!

There wasn't anything quite like a bright eyed child gazing at you. Ash Paw hadn't known such happiness until her own and then these ones. Though she wasn't a perfect mother and her children were more wild than anything.

Ash Paw gave a soft hum in her chest and rubbed a paw along the girls downy ears.

It's okay. Just a pretty steller Jay. Probably going to their nest.

Shadowpup was comforted by Ashpaw’s words and gained the confidence to observe the iridescent blue and black bird hop among the branches.

“Jay?” she repeated as her gaze followed it. Shadowpup admired the crest on its head and the vibrant cerulean of its feathers. Suddenly, the bird found a grub and flew off toward its nest. The chirping of baby birds made Shadowpup’s ears swivel.

“What’s dat?” she asked Ashpaw.

Ash Paw watched the bird with the child. The bright colors and the way it bobbed and weaved through the branches a skill, sometimes she marveled at. They were so small and yet so agile. It was amazing to her to watch them flit and flutter about. Nature was majestic, truly.

Ash Paw chuckled. Baby birds. Little wee ones. They are letting their parents know they are hungry. Much like you and your siblings do.

She pressed a gentle kiss to the pups head.

Last from me <3 Thank you for the short and sweet thread!

The child giggled when Ash Paw’s kiss ruffled the locks on her forehead. It made Shadowpup feel loved and supported.

“Babee burd,” she whispered, voice filled with awe.

Then, she turned around and licked Ash Paw’s chin. “Chirp, chrip!” she squeaked, imitating a chick in the nest.