Sun Mote Copse glitter and gold

She would’ve liked to join Nyssa’s prancing, though there was no way she could move like that right now. Meerkat chortled at the thought, eyes still following her pack mate’s exuberant movements… at least until she dropped the rabbit at her paws, declaring it Meerkat’s for the taking.

Thank you, Nyssa! she remembered to say after staring at it hungrily for several beats. I think I know what you mean. When you feel those first hints of spring after a long winter, it’s like a weight lifts from your spirit, one you didn’t even know was there until it’s gone and you’re left to enjoy the sweet relief of its absence.

Still moving hither and thither, Nyssa asked how she was doing and remarked on Njord’s welcoming attitude. She was happy to hear that Nyssa was settling in well. Meerkat couldn’t help but wonder if she’d met her sister or her son yet and just hoped it would never make Nyssa doubt her place among them.

We’re happy to have you, Nyssa, Meerkat said, surprised but pleased by the nudge to her chin. Really, she continued after giving Nyssa’s nose a little nibble, we’re lucky to have such a happy spirit among us. And a good hunter too!

This time, she didn’t just stare at the dead rabbit. Maneuvering carefully around her own swollen belly, she bent to pluck at the carcass. As she tore into it, her pale tail swept the snowy ground behind her, creating an imprint that resembled a haloing sunbeam.