Ouroboros Spine crooked but upright

Pleased by her acceptance, Tonravik quieted. She hated to speak, but the question that had been asked begged answering by tongue. When Echelon looked away, Tonravik again lay on her side, comfortable in this cool, dark cavern. It was clear now there was nothing more to say, but the alpha was unconcerned with the presence of Echelon who would be welcome at her side up until her cubs were born. Then, no one but the cubs would be safe from her. Loosing a yawn, the tired leader began to drift off into a light nap.