Ouroboros Spine xlvv. before he gets there

shikoba has been spending her time doing extra patrols and hunting after the birth of kukutux's children. it is incredibly important that the new generation of moonglow is provided all of its needs, whether that is with love or with nourishment. today, shikoba's hunt is promising as a large hare hangs from her teeth. her intent is to put it in a nearby cache by the ulax, but she notices something.

as she approaches, she sees one of the other woman of moonglow pushing herself deeper into what must be her own den. at first, shikoba would simply walk away to let the woman have her own privacy. however, the scent that clings to the air warns shikoba that something is wrong, or different at least. thankfully with kukutux's litter being born so soon, shikoba does not forget what birth smells like. with a small sense of familiarity, the native can now try and figure out how she can help this woman.

her pace is a quick trot towards Löté as a choppy bark is offered, to let her know that she is no longer alone. she stands at the mouth of the den, dropping the heavy rabbit from her jaws. concern is written over her scarred face. "need help?" a simple question that some may call stupid considering the circumstances, but shikoba is always wary of others she does not truly know well. besides, pregnancy means hormones, and hormones can cause strange behavior. the last thing shikoba wanted was to be chased away and cause further damage to the expecting mother.