Sun Mote Copse Sun Mote Copse, Forever

Stingray, unlike everyone else, was still asleep when the howl happened.

Njord's deep timbre woke him with a start and a snort. Up popped his head, dumping snow down his shoulders and into his rapidly blinking eyes. It had settled over him through the night like a cozy woolen blanket. He'd stayed up too late again.

Hauling himself to his feet, Stingray gave a brisk shake and cleared his throat before lifting his voice up to join his parents and a third somebody he hadn't met yet. His voice wavered a little, still thick with sleep, but he was pleased it didn't crackle or squeak. It seemed he was finally past the point in his life where his voice betrayed him in that fashion.

Smacking his lips, Stingray set off in search of a suitable breakfast to share with his mom.