The Sentinels estranged

By the tense uneasiness that filled the air, Muses understood that something had not gone to plan. She was aware that some wolves would die during pregnancy - it was a trait her father abhorred - although it was a bad omen. Her brows furrowed, black lips drawing into a taut line. She observed as Doe got to work removing the whelps. It was perhaps better to save them, although the mother had been weak. Idly, Muses wondered if her father would have shown such compassion.

As it was, a little over half of the litter appeared to be strong. While some were hideously gnarled, defects contorting their little bodies, there were four that appeared to be well developed, although Muses wouldn't trust herself to confirm it. "The living ones must be tended to," She murmured, turning towards Deirdre to relay the instructions. With a bit more boldness, she added, "The dam's body should be removed immediately. It is a bad omen, and it would be a bad fate for the pups to cling to her weak spirit." She sighed, ssuddenly weary, and reluctant to take the body away herself. Where did they even bury the dead? What if they did not want the body of the deceased to taint scred burial grounds?

Instead, she returned her focus to Doe. Following her example, she pulled towards her the sack of a random pup - it was difficult to discern any distinguishing figures while they were still in the placenta - and carefully tore away at the nourishing membrane, using her tongue to wipe the pup and to stimulate breathing.