A CORNUCOPIA OF OPIATES

The solitary brute was wandering alone through the southern portions of Alacritis when the call came. He stilled, ears perking as he listened at length. He hadn't spoken to or seen Morphine since the mating that had sent him spiraling into a darker place within himself. For the last several weeks, he had only tormented other creatures or been wholly unpleasant, his only desires to rip someone or something apart, and to see his offspring. Her call was the signal that one of his dreams would today be realized.



Seraphim's feet carried him swiftly through the trees, following the sound to its source. He came upon her as she was entering the most difficult part of her labor her face contorted in pain, her eyes becoming red with blood. His eyes scanned the area on which she lay, the ground coated in deer pelts beneath the large roots of the willow tree. She had created an impressive little birthing cave. The brute came to sit beside her shelter, verdant gaze narrowly focused on hers - the only comfort he felt that he could offer. Seraph felt some sympathy for the dame, recognizing that the physical pain she was enduring would be unlike any he would feel in his lifetime, but such was the curse of being a mother.



It seemed that it was over as soon as it had begun for him. The tiny forms had finally emerged from her womb into their little world beneath the roots, and Seraphim found himself smiling for the first time in weeks. He focused his gaze on the pups, seemingly unable to look away. Finally, something he had dreamed of had come to fruition. He had children to care for, with a mother who expected nothing from him. While it wasn't under ideal circumstances, it had still come to pass and that was enough for him. Sparing a glance at Morphine, he gave his little congratulations.



They're perfect.