Sawtooth Spire this whole rhapsody

800th post!

There was something good to be said in the differences between himself and Tonravik. Two different beasts. Two different ways to be learned. Where Tonravik did not so much understand the value of play, Iqniq saw much gain in these little lessons. No two wolves were consistent. Battle and sparring strategies had to be flexible and able to change on the fly. The same was true for hunting. No matter the scenario, these times of play encouraged quick, critical thinking. It built up instinctual responses and crafted reflexes. Iqniq would not discourage play.

On his back, the playing field was leveled. Ping nipped at him just as Iqniq nipped back. Their paws both bantered each other. Their teeth, falling upon fur with gentle nudges as Iqniq waited to see what Ping would make of this mock battle. The pup darted free. The father flipped back to his stomach and lay there with his hind paws coiled beneath him. Fox boy was demonstrating his sly nature. Perhaps now was also a good time for a lesson in humility.

Ping bolted for the skull. Iqniq was ready for him. He let the pup get his teeth around the bone head and turn away before Iqniq snagged Ping by the tail and put an end to his escape. He pulled the boy back towards him and wrapped his arms around him, tucking the child against his chest as he nuzzled him. His nape. His belly. He snuggled the boy relentlessly and made every effort to trap the boy within his affections.