Broken Antler Fen Starboy

Pearl watched the scene from the back of the den, warm and cozy with the other three snuggled against her. Her head rested on her paws, smiling as Ben waddled his way to the entrance. Even though she knew he wouldn't go far, she had to make sure he could get back, so she allowed him a few more steps outside before gingerly getting up and joining him. 

She saw Seb returning with a plump-looking rabbit in his maw, mouth watering at the sight. Pearl sat and watched his exchange with their son, who seemed- out of it? Not fully there? She wondered about this briefly before the father opened the rabbit and the warm smell tickled her damp nose. 

Hopefully the pups would take to meat fast, as their rapidly maturing bodies (and teeth) made it all around more difficult for everyone to keep on milk. But her aspirations for the near future were quickly thrown aside as Ben uttered his first coherent word. Her face broke into a wide, suprised grin, looking to Seb with glee. He'd never been much for talking, but her ecstacy only grew when he appeared to like eating the hare's meat. Her tail wagged rapidly as she said, "First word and first meat! Look at him go!"