Silvertip Mountain The best defense is attack

She was successful in grabbing his scruff, but he was still able to move enough to try and grab her front leg. As soon as his teeth touched her, she released him and went for his face. Instinct took over play mode, and Steady turned instantly submissive, his tail tucking between his back legs as his ears folded on his head and he flattened his body to the ground, moving his head to the side to avoid her teeth in his eyes.

While he knew this was play fighting, Zaria really had the upper paw here. They had a couple spars now, and Steady was getting the idea that his Alpha really knew what she was doing. He also understood that these play spars could turn real if they weren't careful, and he didn't want to push her. Going for the eyes, even in play, was a clear enough sign for him that he had lost, and he willingly submitted to the winner.