Boartusk Heights sangrosa

If he hadn’t been in a mood before, he certainly was now. Vincent had been roused from his nap by the handmaiden as she collected each of Reyna’s fledglings, and then was marched to where the Matriarca sat, waiting.

The boy moved to where he was instructed, indignant, though his displeasure was quick to dissipate as a curious metallic scent hit his nose as Paloma worked to serve each pup a portion of lamb meat. As each child sniffed at their piece curiously, Vincent stared down at his, nose wrinkling – not in disgust, but as a way of wordlessly asking those around him: what is this? His gaze swung to look down the line at his sisters, scrutinising each and looking to see what they made of all this.

He exchanged an uncertain glance with Nymphora, then watched as she delicately nipped at her portion, which finally prompted the boy to conduct his own taste-test. First a peck, then a hesitant gnaw on a corner, before Vincent slowly realised what a delicious gift mother had bestowed upon them.

Mismatched toes held down his piece as the prince began to tear into it feverishly. In time, he would come to savour the pleasant flavour but for now, he was overcome with the base desire to simply consume.