momma's always right

Venom’s mind was racing the whole way back to Ashen. As white gloved paws ate the sandy terrain she had the healer Kiyo and her companions along. The Empress felt no threat from them and would keep her word on inviting her for shelter and sustenance for her work. The trip was much shorter on the return, her paws moved with a purpose as did those that followed her. She tried to focus on the steady rhythm of her feet as her thoughts made their rounds back to her belly. There was no visible difference, but the woman sounded certain and more of her assessment by scent alone.

She hated to admit it but she was uncertain of the unknown this created, was her pregnancy poorly timed? The thought of terminating had struck her harshly, but she would consider if her mate did as well but… With every step she took she was more certain of this outcome. They should have waited, but Venom would not shirk her unexpected blessing. Hattori would be the father of her heirs, however much sooner than intended.

Her heart quickened as she approached the border, she kept her exterior cool and collected, but wondered how long she might keep up. She felt grounded as eventually white paws fell on home soil. With a quick glance to her guests to make sure they were sound she sent out a quick call for Hattori to join her in settling the healer before finding a private place to disclose their news.

"Speech"