Uncertainty and unfathomable doubt swirled within the saplings mind. After the demise of his father and the changes within the packs Plague was left feeling confused. The ramblings and whispers of the Abraxas religion as well as the spiritual dream he had caused a load of contradicting theories and ideals. To watch his mother and siblings mourn over Archon instilled pain and sorrow within his core that would likely remain there for moons to come. On one paw he wanted to be strong for his family and move on from their loss. But on another he just wanted to curl up in his den and sleep the days away. The feelings were said to be normal due to experiencing trauma so early on in life but that did not mean Plague was equipped with the ability to handle them. Long, mostly alabaster, legs carried the growing pups form across the amber terrain. The sun was only just rising as it was early morning. Her dreadful rays kissing the redwater rocks for the first time. A lingering chill began to wither away as time went on. But, it was not uncomfortably hot just yet. Plague usually kept to himself just due to his more gloomy demeanor but the male was feeling a slight bit more lonely then usual. Rather then delving into pissing contests with his overly ambitious siblings the pup made his way to his mother's den. He had always been the closest with Deathbelle and wanted to spend some time with her. Paws slowed as he neared the den and a slightly raspy deepening voice filled the air with caution, "Mother..."

Deathbelle settled into the den she shared with her children as the sun rose above the horizon. Soon the five of them would be leaving her side and choosing their own places to sleep. She hoped that the Empire would be settled into the permanent home that she and Sirius had scouted so long ago. The volcano would surely finish its temper tantrum soon, and the pack would put down some real roots.

The Empress curled up on the plush furs that made up her royal bad. She missed the palace she birthed her children into, but she hoped they wouldn’t have need to return there. They would have a new beginning in the east and Ashen would thrive. If only they would get there. She was beginning to drift off into a nap when she heard her only son’s sweet voice at the entrance of the den.

Belle lifted her head from dainty paws with a soft smile as her ivory tail wagged slowly against the fur beneath. Plague was already huge, at almost nine months old he was taking on his father’s height. ”My son,” she greeted warmly, leaning back to offer him a place beside her. The pups were getting too big for snuggles, but she would offer the option to him either way. ”Will you come sit with me?” If he sought her out for something more specific she would gladly take to her paws for him.

Plague felt thankful his call was met with a reply. His dear mother's sweet voice filled his ears and his heart with warmth. A certain warmth he no longer felt so often. At times the world felt so cold he could hardly remember what it was like to have his former ignorance and giddiness back. Puphood had been swept away into the volcano with his father. Which left the boy grasping at any tendril of bliss that he may be able to latch onto. With this warmth came a very soft grin and large paws carried his rather tall form into the den. Emerald eyes took in the sight of his mother lounging and in good health. With a nod in reference to her question the pup moved to nuzzle lovingly into his mother's scruff. Just as he would if he weren't already massive for his age. After the snuggle Plague took a step back and sat in front of Deathbelle. Uncertainty filled his gaze but his expression was rather void of emotion other then the small grin. "How are you doing, mother?" His voice was raspy as he was coming to age. Soon it would deepen as he grows into a full yearling. The question held an air of pointedness as if asking for the truth rather then a sugar coat that maybe his other siblings would benefit from.

What she regretted the most about losing Archon was that her children’s father was stolen from them along with their childhood. They deserved so much more than what they were given, and it seemed like it was everyday the Empress wished she could change the past. However, she still reveled in Plague’s soft smile as he drew more near to her and offered a sweet smile. He gave her unabashed affection and she returned his nuzzles grateful he didn’t think himself too old to give his mother some love.

Her eyes found his forest green gaze as he sat back and questioned after her. Again and again she was impressed by how thoughtful and wonderful her brood were becoming. They were faced with incredible struggles but she couldn’t have been more proud of them.

”You shouldn’t be fretting over me,” she told him as she offered another nuzzle to his cheek. ”But I am well.” She pulled back with a smile on her dark features. ”What about you, Plague?” She asked in return as she settled back down in the furs of the den. Belle wanted the truth but she didn’t want to press him either. ”What brings you to see me?” He was very much allowed to just come and see her, but if he needed anything she wanted to be there for him.