Morning brought sunlight filtering through the lodge windows and the sounds of cooking and conversation from the main area. Akira woke instantly, alert as always, to find Kova already awake and watching her with bright silver eyes.
"Morning, cub," she said, reaching out to ruffle the fur between his ears.
He responded with a happy whine and promptly pounced on her hand, play-biting with gentle pressure. Good sign. Playful cub meant healthy cub.
Liam was already gone from his sleeping area, his scent fresh enough to indicate he hadn't been up long. Akira helped Kova wash his fur with water from a basin provided, then led him toward the main gathering space.
The lodge was busy with morning activities—bear clan members preparing food, checking weapons, coming and going on regular patrols.
