The show of affection was gladly welcomed, her tail thumping harder against the ground. Kirain absolutely beamed at her dearest friend. Once Stardust settled by her side, the tension melted from her body, leaving only warmth and joy behind.

I'm well! So very well! I’ve never been so in love and happy in my life, Stardust. I’m still rather emotional from the hormones, but Lestan has been by my side, comforting me through it all. She let out a blissful sigh, her eyes softening. How are you? How is the Rise? Have I missed anything? How are the pigments coming along?

As eager as she was to gush endlessly about her pups, she wanted to check in with her companion. Life in the den had become her haven, and most of what she knew came only from what her husband shared when he returned from his trips. She suspected he kept any troubling news to himself to spare her the heartache. She made a small face at the thought before her gaze drifted back to her babies.

Everything went well in the end. There was a moment I worried for our youngest… but he’s come into himself over the days and grown so much stronger. As she spoke, she gently nuzzled each pup in turn, helping to show which one she meant. This is Saorlaith, our second born. Aren’t her little white socks adorable? And this is Eilidh, our first. Look at her coat, just imagine how lovely it will be as it grows in. And last, but never least, this is little Faolán.

At her touch, Faolán stirred, squirming with tiny whines as he sought comfort. Kirain was quick to soothe him, covering him in tender licks and whispering softly until he settled once more beside his sisters. When she looked back at Stardust, her eyes shone misty with happiness.

Noticing the rabbit skin, her expression brightened even further. Is that the perfume? I’ve been looking forward to it so much! Not that I mind the smell, but milk breath does get a little old. She laughed gently at herself.