It had been a long time since Nibble had felt this quickening in her belly but it had also been a long time since she had entertained a suitor. Remarkable had caught her eye quite thoroughly; he was quick, he was handsome. She’d had no choice but to be won over by his charms. And now, well, it wouldn’t be so bad being a mother again. She’d enjoyed it enough the first time and this time she could enjoy it without the worry that came with being a first-timer.
On one sunny day, when the weather felt right, Nibble got to work, determinedly searching her neck of the swamp for a suitable den. She didn’t normally have a set resting area, simply dropping wherever looked comfortable, but that was about to change, at least for a little.
It only took a little time until she found a dry hollow that she could clean out and then prepare by laying down gathered ferns. A few stomps later and it was as good as it was going to get. No frills but more than enough space for a little clutch of eggs, somewhere she could watch over until they were born, ready to join the world and join her ramblings.
“You’ve done well!”
The voice right behind her, caused her mane to fluff out, as she turned, lip curling in a defensive snarl to face the intruder. A sheepish looking Kiokote who glowed as though touched by rainbows.
“Oh, I’m so sorry,” he dipped his head apologetically. The bubbles around his head bounced with his movement. “I didn’t mean to startle you! I should have announced myself properly first. I was just so charmed to see you at work making such a nice little spot and well - ahem!”
He dipped into a bow. “My name is Once Forgotten. I am here to bless your children, in the name of the MotherFather. I hope that will make up for my blunder.”
Her back was still slightly bristled but Nibble could hardly be annoyed anymore. “It’s fine,” she grunted. A blessing, eh? That would do well. Give them the best head start anyone could ask for.
Her ear flicked as she asked, “what kind of blessing?”
“Well, what would you like?”
What would she like?
“Make em strong.”
That was always a good bet. It could mean anything. Body or mind.
The chosen one nodded thoughtfully.
“Very well, I ask the Motherfather to guide them, to offer them the strength required to overcome whatever obstacles stand before them or challenges that life brings them. May she watch over them always.”
His rainbow gaze was kindly, warm, glowing.
“Thank... you.” It came out a low growl but he seemed to sense the gratitude lurking in her heart.
“I wish you well,” he said, and with another dip of his head, he left, wandering off down the track, leaving her to her little den.
Nibble let out a massive sigh.
Well, she was glad that was done with.
Time to get a snack.