Ouroboros Spine Something there

Valiant was looking for Raindrop as well. He was just returning from a night of border marking, tired and sore but in good spirits. As was his custom, he headed straight for Raindrop's den instead of to his own preferred sleeping place under the stars.

He'd dug a new bed for himself, closer to Raindrop, and would not have to travel far to turn in either way.

"You're looking well," he said as he padded toward her, his tail whisking at his heels. She smelled good, too — healthy and vital. He thought, perhaps, he could detect a hint of something else. He did not dare name it, but asked, "How're you feelin'?"