Snowforest Taiga house of the dragon

The pups had begun playing near the den’s mouth, always strictly supervised by one parent or the other. Raider watched in fascination as their eyes cleared and their ears perked. Her own often twitched at their childish vocalizations. They were more of a handful now, yet no less of a delight.

Their growth—and ability to take regurgitated meat—freed up some of her time, which the Alpha female divided between hunting and patrolling. She set out today to find some fresh meat, leaving the trio in @Riley’s care and ignoring the persistent, slight malaise that had come over her the night before.

Her search for small game took her toward the grotto, though Raider lost the trail. She slumped in the shade, feeling worse now. It was neither particularly hot nor sunny this morning, though she felt feverish. Her tongue lolled from her red muzzle in a shallow pant. She could feel a headache coming on.

She wanted to get back to the den and rest, though she hesitated. The mother feared bringing a contagion back to her family. Even if it was just some summer cold, such a thing could be dangerous for the pups. Raider stood, long tail flicking pensively, and began walking toward the small plain they shared with the rise.