Northstar Vale Time to see the world

ember was first, but that didn't matter. first; last; she had no notion of hierarchy;

only the feeling of slipping into the world from the warm, wet place of the womb. she rolled and gasped, finding no air past her sac, which was broken with a lick.

she cried out gently and wriggled toward the teat, smelling milk.

her lips popped and smacked, seeking sustenance. eventually, she latched onto a teat and feasted.

her belly grew round.

she was satisfied.

sleepy.

drifting. . .

away. . .