Redhawk Caldera a shadow tilts its head at me

Raven's heart broke when Fox began to sob (dryly!) against her. She settled on her haunches beside the Alpha female, lifting a foreleg to wrap around her shoulders and snuggling close against her. She didn't say anything. First of all, she wasn't sure what more to say. Second of all, she figured Fox wouldn't want any silly platitudes right now. Raven would just be there for her grieving mom.

Only after sitting there in silence and holding Fox for several moments did Raven become aware of a strange smell. Her mouth dropped open in a silent gasp. Her mother was in heat. Instinctively, the yearling scanned their surroundings to make sure nobody was approaching to take advantage of Fox's vulnerability. She then huddled closer to Fox, wondering if her parents had managed to couple before her father's untimely death but too afraid to ask at the moment.

When Fox's (dry!) weeping settled somewhat, Raven finally spoke. "I'd like to stay here, if you'll have me back." I want to be here for you, her bright, wet eyes added for her as she looked imploringly into her mother's sad face.