Bloom

FitzDutiful awoke to the feeling that something was... off. At least, that was the best word to describe it. He noticed Raissa was missing and let himself wake up before padding softly outside. As he approached the entrance to his den he realised something else was different. An enticing, powerful scent was in the air and it stirred something within him. He moved towards his mate's silhouette in the darkness and the scent got stronger.

It overpowered him, drove him, and he felt as though he wanted nothing more than to take her in the way one mate took another. His mind fought frantically against his heart. Now wasn't the right time. They had only taken on one new member since, and the encounter with the dogs had done nothing save to prove how unstable the world was right now.

Suddenly, he realised there was another male in their pack and his eyes darted around keeping a wary eye out for Copper. He liked the young male, but anyone near Raissa right now would be prone to attack. They were still too close to the borders for his liking, but he didn't trust himself to say anything. For now, he watched her.