Xanthos

Xanthos padded along the outskirts of the Nursery cave impatiently as the mothers inside prepared their pups for his judgment. For any pup that was not deemed worthy would surely be cast out and left to fend for itself. Males, weak and unoriginal pups were almost guaranteed to be disposed of. The only redeeming qualities that could save them would be heightened abilities, unique coats or markings, and a decreased fertility. Xanthos was a provider and knew breeding to females struggling with fertility would increase the chances of birthing a pup that would fetch a pretty penny, to ensure the pack had what it needed to survive. The eldest of the females approached Xanthos with a soft nod, signaling the pups were ready for judgment. Anxious energy filled the air within the cave as the mothers displayed their pups. Xanthos looked over each pup, paying close attention for anything that would stand out. This process took quite a bit of time, but was a necessary process. He would then mark each pup found unworthy with a dirt pawprint on their head. The mothers reactions would vary, some would cry and beg him to reconsider, some just nodded coldly, and others wept silently knowing the fate their pups must face. At the end of the judgement period, the marked pups were carried off, never to be seen again. The mothers were never to know where their pups went. It was a cruel cycle, but one ultimately deemed necessary. Only Xanthos and his pup disposal team knew where the pups would end up. Rowena nuzzled under her mates chin as he waited outside the den, resting on his hind end "I've made the arrangements, my love. The grizzly will take as many as she can handle, the rest will be sent to the usual adoption den. The pupsitters are already awaiting the new batch" she sighs softly, leaning into his sunkissed fur "I understand how difficult this is for you, even if they don't. You do everything you can to keep us safe and thriving, it is appreciated" she licked his muzzle softly as he sighed deeply, seemingly letting go of the tension built up "Thank you Rowena, It's refreshing knowing someone understands the necessity of it all" he rests his head atop hers, nuzzling between her ears