Bearclaw Valley could wrap up the sun, and protect the girls

she had not thought much of the life stirring within her belly. she would not think much of it at all, until the day came that they parted from her.

for now, her focus was merrick

she was never meant to be a mother, a child-rearer -- merrick pulled her down alongside him, keening into the softness of her darkened ruff.

she simply remained there, immovable yet puzzled by the nameless demons that plagued her bear.