Blackfeather Woods sinnasaik

she laughed quietly at the joke, but it was soon back to business, with another contraction rippling through Shivali. Tahani pressed back as she pushed, and another pup was born, Shivali quickly licking the membrane from its face. there was no time to feel joyful; things went south rather fast.

the pup didn't respond--the body was still, stiff. Shivali licked and licked, to no avail. finally, she pressed the body to her, closing her eyes. grief washed over Tahani, though she knew she couldn't let the emotion rule over her. there was work still to be done. she presses her nose to Shivali's head, a mournful whine escaping her lips.

"i am sorry, sister," she murmured, shutting her eyes as well. she stood and waited for the next pup to come. it wasn't uncommon for new mothers to lose one or more of their first litter; she hoped the others would come out alive, healthy and hearty.