Swiftcurrent Creek violet curse

off-screen cameo!

The howl sounded, for the second time. 

The first time, she had not recognized his voice, though she had been informed afterwards by her brother that it had been Lestan- and that Swordfish had been with him. Now, all the cards were on the table. Swordfish knew that he had sired pups- but also that he would have to wait before he saw them. 

She fussed over them; taking pride in how much they had grown, how animated and beautiful and sweet. At the sound of Lestan’s howl, she gave each pup a nuzzle, smoothing the fur of their brow. She wondered how much of what she was in them was from her, and how much of it was from him.

She did not explain to them what might happen; she simply tilted her head back and offered what was intended as a greeting; so that whoever met Lestan and Swordfish at the borders might know that she was ready.