Bearclaw Valley i've seen their worlds inside my head

he was welcomed home; merrick seemed to wilt in a paroxysm of relief. the witch snuck close as he dared, seeking her warmth. he would not touch her again, not until the known dangers of her teeth had passed. up and up his muzzle lifted, staring first toward the girl cloaked in blood and the dark boy who had once shrunk away.
merrick did not return the growl; merely laughed aloud and cast himself down alongside their mother. his gaze shifted to the son now, and he saw a razor knowingness in the command of the boy's small bulk.
there now, perhaps some ember that could be coaxed. "good," he grunted toward the pair, intrigued to see if the daughter would capitulate or fight.