Noctisardor Bypass a pelican leaps from chair to chair

Kikimora existed quietly, sleeping more than anything. She was a pitiful little thing, deprived in the womb to have her appear as though half the size of her largest sibling. Unaware of her disadvantage and the potential to be shunted to the bottom of a future pecking order, the down-furred babe was content nestled among her brother and sisters.

There was movement around them, the transfer of guardianship, and Kikimora gave a little wriggle as she parted her jaws in a yawn.