Redtail Rise to the river—

There wasn't a trace of upset around her as she looked at him. Instead, the uncertain air around her transformed to joy. Ashlar's smile grew to match hers and his tail lifted some, waving behind him as she shared her news.

Pregnant!? He knew she wanted it, but was still both surprised and thrilled when she confirmed it. Ashlar nodded and came forward with eager caution, putting his cheek gently against her side to try and hear what she was talking about.

There was definitely something. He heard a quiet sound, something apart from her louder heartbeat. He couldn't tell how many but since she'd pointed it out, he didn't think it could be anything else. His eyes widened.

I can hear them. He said quietly with a voice full of wonder. They're - Something moved, subtly, beneath. He pulled back finally, beaming. That's amazing!! Ashlar didn't care one bit that no part of them was his. This was some of the best news he'd ever heard, especially because of her own reaction to it, and it showed with every inch of his body language. Do you know how long?!

Gannet had told him some about pregnancy and childbirth. He ran over it again impatiently. 9 weeks is how long usually, but sometimes it's faster. And they'll want special food sometimes, or be sick in parts. He was ready for almost anything, but he'd definitely help with the hunting! His trip to the shore was momentarily forgotten, completely blown away by this new development.