a den of inspiration

I'm 99% sure that concept largely comes from the fact 3 month birth control pills will have 7 placebo pills at the end, and when you take them you get your period.

People often assume that there's some health reason that you have to take the 7 pills and have a period. Like you have to reset your cycle or something.

But like.

You don't.

You can just skip the 7 placebo pills and start on the next pack. Most that's likely to happen is light spotting when you start out. There's no reason your body needs to go through a menstrual cycle unless you're planning on getting pregnant.

The whole reason we still have those sugar pills in there is largely sexism from the 60s. Most birth control packs still have them primarily as a holdover from the time period, despite the fact medical science considers it largely unnecessary (although in the US you have at least one company that's finally ditched them, thank god).

Pairing: Tim Drake/Jason Todd Rating: Explicit (and please mind the tags) Chapter Wordcount: 4.9k

Jason tries to sell off his first heat to make ends meet for the upcoming winter. When he’s taken by traffickers instead, he’s sure that’s the end of him—until he’s rescued by a mysterious alpha. That “rescue” comes with a price: Jason’s heat hits shortly after, and… one thing leads to another, and now Jason and Tim are bound together by a fledgling mate bond. It’s not the first time Jason’s had to make the best of things, but… he finds it a little bit easier this time, especially as he grows to genuinely like Tim. Unfortunately, just as Jason is starting to settle into mated life, Tim’s ex-pack starts getting involved, and they don’t exactly approve of Tim’s choice in mate...

i was going to wait longer to post this, but... i've been dying to share it, lmao, so i'm doing so as a birthday gift to myself <3

under the cut is a preview of the first chapter, as well as chapter content warnings. i hope you enjoy <3

@bunnie-paws

@quiet-corner-nest

@feral-alpha

@alphawithanxiety

@alphabumblebunny

@transalphabf

@omega-gender

@miscecanis

@omega-puppy

@thebetaisin

@fated-fragrance-omegaverse

@cozy-fairytale

@a1ph4-w01f

@omegapheromone

@angel-omega

@feralomega

@miscecanis-musings

@omegaversebookshelf

@omegaverse624

@malriex

@strawberrycakeomega

@sanguine-alpha

@gothic-alpha

@abosideblog

imagining an alpha’s first time bottoming

they’ve been fantasizing about this for a long time, but this is the first time they’ve ever felt safe enough with a partner to ask for it. their belly is twisted into knots, but despite their nerves, they settle, presenting to their partner.

their partner takes their time—opening them up slowly, carefully. “look at you,” they croon. “taking my fingers so well.” the alpha’s face burns. they whine—only to choke on a keen when their partner’s fingers crook, brushing their prostate and setting their nerves alight with pleasure.

under such careful ministrations, it doesn’t take long for the alpha to fall apart. tension melts away with each broken whine and whimper. it’s only when they’re trembling, hardly able to hold themselves up, that their partner pulls away. they cry out, mourning the lost—but the sound barely escapes their throat before their partner’s cock is pressed against them.

“shh, shh,” their partner soothes, stroking their palms down their sides. “s’alright, i’m here. i’ve got you.”

the breath leaves them all at once. their stomach tightens with—nerves? anticipation?

their partner presses in, just as maddeningly slowly as they had fingered them.

they pant into the sheets, fabric growing damp from drool. their hands clench, unclench—half-desperate to just yank their partner forward.

the keen that escapes them when their partner finally, finally bottoms out is embarrassing. or it would be, if they could think beyond the feeling of their partner’s warmth draped against their back; the sensation of feeling finally, exquisitely, full.

their partner moves; settling into a rhythm that keeps the alpha’s brain fuzzy with pleasant, humming static. their body buzzes. helpless, high pitched growls roll from their chest, around pleas for more, yes, there.

“such pretty noises,” their partner murmurs, stroking their chest, their belly. “you’re such a good alpha, darling. always making sure i’m taken care of. s’my turn, now. gonna make you feel just as good as you do me.” their hand closes around the alpha’s cock, stroking in time with their thrusts.

heat builds, and builds, swelling deep in their belly until—

white.

they keen their partner’s name, orgasm rolling through them. distantly, they feel their partner grip their knot, holding it with the perfect amount of pressure.

they come back to themselves slowly. the first thing they’re aware of are gentle kisses and nips, pressed against their nape and shoulders. their chest is rumbling. when they started purring, they’re not sure, but they can feel an answering rumble in their mate’s chest. they sigh softly, contently.

“everything you imagined?” their mate asks, lips against their neck.

“better,” they reply.

»masterlist«

[miscellaneous things that either didn’t fit in the other posts; i didn’t think of them in time; or i didn’t have enough of to group them together. will likely add to this in reblogs~]

Suppressants — Available in pill, shot, or intravenous form, listed in order of how strong each effect is. This blocks the hormones which cause heats / ruts. Doctors recommend going off of them for once cycle every two years. Not doing so is unhealthy and can lead to problems, including stress cycles or infertility.

Scent Patches / Blockers — A small, circular patch applied over the gland. These are usually wafer thin and nearly translucent on the skin, but can be thicker depending on the need. These block a person’s scent. How much depends on scent strength. If someone is particularly stressed they can “burn” through the patch, and cause it to lose its effectiveness. These can cause irritation if worn for too long.

Scent Concealer — An oil or powder applied directly to the scent gland. This changes or mingles with the natural smell to work as either a blocker, enhancer, or even to present as a different dynamic. Some will also use it if they have an “unpleasant” smell.

Sympathy Cycles — Sometimes when a packmate goes into heat or rut, their other, same-dynamic packmates will join them. This is especially common around just-presenting pups, or if someone is experiencing a stress cycle. A sympathy cycle can also trigger around a stranger. (And sometimes pups will have sympathy cycles with a parent or packmate they’re close to.)

Stress Cycles — When someone experiences a great upheaval or stress, they can be catapulted into heat/rut. It’s thought that this is meant to call/rally pack to comfort or protect someone. It may also happen to attract pack, if someone has gone without one for too long.

Feral — Like a stress cycle, a feral state is triggered by great upheaval or stress. It’s more likely if the stress is life or pack-threatening, or caused by overwhelm. Some people are more likely to go feral / go feral more regularly. Some people never experience a feral state. Instinct takes over completely. Someone who is feral can usually be coaxed from the state by a packmate—but packless people require more special care.

Everyone nests. Nests are generally rebuilt every two weeks or so, to clean the blankets, pillowcases, and nest covers. Scented items may be changed out more frequently, to keep the scent fresh/strong.

There are several different types of nests, with three being most common:

The classic, built on a frame (generally round) or the floor. They’re often surrounded by canopies.

Dens, which are more built somewhere more enclosed—such as a closet or modernized victorian box bed.

Perches, which are built somewhere raised—such as a loft/bunk bed or hammock.

The materials and set up of nests vary. Some prefer soft and blush, others more sturdy. Some want fuzzy, others silky, and others more linen/cotton. I've got a pinterest board with several examples.

(The stereotype is that alphas prefer dens, betas prefer perches, & omegas prefer a classic nest. This is reflected in media, & marketing for the various types.)

Each dynamic can be very territorial over their nest. Entering without first being invited is a good way to get yourself bitten.

Victims of abuse, or who lacked stable lives, may show a lack of interest in nesting, doing only the bare minimum. Others become even more territorial and defensive of their nests, not even allowing pack in. Still yet others may hide their nests. It can take time for their instincts to realize they’re safe.

Omegas become very fussy nesters during pre-heat. Their nest has to be just right, and this can cause frustration, sometimes to the point of tears.

If there’s space enough in the home, a pack will have a special pack nest they’ve built together. These are communal lounging spaces. Pups spend a lot of time there. If there isn’t space enough, the pack leader’s nest will double as the pack nest.

Pups tend to nest with their parents/guardians for the first two or three years of their lives. After that, they generally share a nest with other pups until around ten to twelve, when they develop a desire to have their own space.

If there aren’t enough pups for a pup nest, pups may stay longer with their parents or rotate between nests.

Older packmates may also choose to nest together, especially in times of stress… but also just because.

Pups usually build nests with their parents and/or siblings, to teach them how to do it on their own.

Pups moving into their own nest is something of a coming-of-age event. If funds are available, a big deal is made of picking out and setting up a frame (if applicable), and pack members will all gift pillows, stuffed toys, blankets, etc. Some will be new, others hand-me-downs. The pup then assembles their nest, usually alone, and shows it off. They usually have company the first night, though some want to prove they’re Big and sleep alone. There’s often a bit of an adjustment period, though, and they may end up regularly back in their childhood nests.

also

All of the dynamics have scent glands. The glands are located on their necks, wrists, and inner thighs. These glands can be very sensitive, especially during a heat or rut—during which they swell, overproducing scent.

Alphas tend to have spicy or woodsy scents—cinnamon, pepper, cloves, ginger, pine, cedar, sandalwood, campfire.

Betas tend to smell very light and airy—mint, citrus, aloe vera, cucumber, rose, lavender, almond, pumpkin, tea leaves.

Omegas tend to smell fruity or sweet—caramel, honey, vanilla, peach, strawberry, coconut, apple.

Pups have milder versions of their dynamic scent, mixed with a milky-soft pup smell. Their scents are soft and easy for packmates to cover.

Scenting is an important part of pack bonding. It’s a tender expression of affection, a wordless way of saying “I’m here, I care about you, I want people to know we’re connected even when we’re apart.” Each member of a pack will almost always smell like at least one other member. Mates also always smell like each other—sometimes so intermingled it’s hard to tell who’s who. Pups’ scent is almost always masked by another packmate’s—usually their parent(s).

cycles

Heats / ruts, or cycles, happen every 3-4 (or 2-3?) months, and last anywhere from 3-5 days. Suppressants (given in pill and patch form) can help ease the symptoms, or stop them completely—though the latter can be dangerous if overused. It’s recommended to have a natural heat / rut every 2 years.

Beta do not experience a cycle. (Or, perhaps, they experience a much more mild form—I haven’t decided.)

Cycles are not inherently sexual. Most cycles are pack-oriented—meant to strengthen pack bonds, not entice sex. However, they can turn sexual, if sex is instigated.

The days leading up to a cycle are referred to as pre-rut or pre-heat. Often the first sign of a pre-cycle is appetite, which can seem to double overnight as the alpha or omega’s body stores necessary calories. They may experience mood swings. Some may also find themselves clinging to someone—this is especially common in younger a’s & o’s; latching on to an older packmate (of any dynamic) to soothe themselves. They’re especially sensitive to rejection from this person. They spend a lot of time prepping their nests, making sure they’re comfortable, and filled with things that make them (and their pack) feel safe. Both stockpile lots of water, and easy to eat foods. Other pack members (or mates, during a fertile cycle) will supply fresher food when they can—usually by heating prepped meals and/or grabbing cut fruit/vegetables.

Pack Ruts increase an alpha's natural desire to protect their pack. They are often restless and aggressive, reacting violently to perceived threats or intruders (save for pups). Unless they feel particularly safe, they will spend a lot of time alert, sometimes even getting up to patrol the area around their nest, though always keeping their pack in sight. When not doing that, they're scenting and nuzzling their pack, ensuring their well-being and reaffirming their claim. They begin producing more, stronger pheromones, causing their scent glands to become swollen and sensitive. Some Alphas become so restless they may refuse sleep or food; body tension / pain from hyper-vigilance; and tension headaches. They spend most of this time deep in their instincts, clingy, extra sensitive to rejections, & at times non-verbal.

Pack Heats increase an omega's natural desire to nurture their pack. They want to surround themselves, and their pack, with soft things and comforting scents—keeping their pack close and covering them in their scent. They're very protective during this time, especially of pups, and can be just as aggressive as alpha to perceived threats or intruders. They begin producing more pheromones, which can make their scent glands swollen and sensitive. Some omegas report cramping, dizziness, and fatigue, to varying severity. Some omegas experience cravings, while others report nausea or just a general lack of hunger/disinterest in eating. They spend most of this time deep in their instincts, clingy, extra sensitive to rejections, & at times non-verbal.

Fertile Ruts, in addition to the symptoms of a pack rut, increase an alpha's sex drive. Their refractory period is lessened considerably, though if their knot is to "catch" (whether in an omega, or by using certain toys) it can ease the symptoms, and allow them to rest a little longer. Their skin and erogenous zones become more sensitive. They become flushed and feverish.

Fertile Heats, in addition to the symptoms of a pack heat, cause an Omega to produce slick. Their skin and erogenous zones become more sensitive. They become flushed and feverish. Their body craves a knot, desiring to be filled. Normally, it takes a lot of prep for them to be able to take one without pain, but that time is lessened during a fertile heat. It takes multiple orgasms to settle them. During heat, they’re also able to bloom. Blooming is very common... in romance novels. However, it only happens when an Omega feels safe, cherished, protected. A bloomed Omega requires almost no prep to take a knot—though it also means that, without protection, a pregnancy is almost certain.

Packless cycles, also referred to as dry cycles are less frequent, as without a pack to make them feel safe, the body doesn’t enter into a cycle. However, they do still happen (unless the alpha or omega is suffering from malnutrition or other complications). They’re very painful, both physically and emotionally.

pregnancy

For economy of language, except when talking about a specific dynamic, parents will be referred to as a "dam" and "sire."

Female alphas, female betas, and both omega sexes are all capable of bearing pups. Both alphas, male betas, and male omegas are all capable of siring pups, though it's quite difficult for an omega.

Most pregnancies only result in one, maybe two pups. However, on rare occasions, a beta or omega may have litters—litters being 3-4 pups.

Pregnancies generally last around 9 months.

Female alphas have a very difficult time getting pregnant, and their pregnancies are often considered high-risk until the sixth month mark, with c-sections being common. They are incapable of having litters.

Betas rarely have litters—usually just twins, at the most, and that’s still rarer than a single birth.

Omegas are the most fertile of the three dynamics, and have the highest chance of having litters. Litters are generally only conceived if an omega feels safe/cherished/protected, and are more likely if an omega blooms during conception.

bonds

Bonds are essential for people’s health & well-being. While it is possible for an adult to survive without any, it leaves people weaker and more susceptible to illness. It’s harder to generate body heat, & can leave a person feeling numb or depressed.

Pups, especially those under twelve, don’t tend to survive long without bonds, often succumbing to illness.

There are four types of bonds.

Packbond. A packbond is a surface level bond that allows you to sense your packs emotions & well-being as long as you’re in range. Pack size determines range—the larger the pack, the larger the range. It’s formed by licking over & nipping the scent gland.

Imprint bond. Imprinting is very similar to a packbond, with the main difference being it appears instantaneously. It is most common in parents and pups, usually occurring at birth—but sometimes a packless puppy will imprint on an adult. Siblings also have imprint bonds.

Matebond. A matebond is a deeper bond, which allows you to sense your mate’s emotions & well-being over a slightly larger range. Matebonds are formed by a bite, hard enough to draw blood. It must be done with the second set of fangs, formed during presentation. It will scar.

Truemate bond. The easiest and most obvious way to know if you’re someone’s truemate. A truebond allows you to not only sense emotions and their well-being—it also allows a pair to share thoughts, though this can take practice. It’s formed the same way as a mating bond.

A bond can be muffled or blocked temporarily if a person doesn’t want their pack or mate to know how they’re feeling. It is difficult to maintain a block without practice. Pups find it nearly impossible.

Bonds can fade over time, and need occasional re-affirming. This is done through scenting, and/or skin-to-skin contact.

It is possible to force a pack- or matebond on someone else. It’s considered a crime to do so in the modern-era, but some areas allow the bond to be consented to by other packmembers.

Bonds can be broken, either purposefully or through death. Omegas have the easiest time doing so, as they tend to be most in tune with their bonds. However, doing so is painful for both sides, and can send a person into a drop or feral state. It also leaves behind a craving for touch, body aches, and sometimes fatigue or fever. Bonds which are allowed to fade don’t leave behind as intense of symptoms, but they’re still present. Having other packbonds to rely on can lessen the intensity.

If a mating bond is broken, the scar will fade, but never fully disappear.

truemates

Truemates are rare. Some people believe that everyone has a truemate, but the world is so large it’s hard to find them. Now that the world is “growing smaller”, so to speak, it’s more likely that there will be an increase in truemates. While it is true there are more than there once were, it’s still very rare.

Truemates are also very difficult to spot, which contributes to their rarity. Some people don’t even believe in them, creating bias.

There are several signs of a truemate. Other than the first sign, all other signs of a truemate can’t be detected until both pairs hormones have leveled out. (Usually between 17-22.)

First, the smell. Your truemate will have a very appealing smell—moreso than any other person’s smell. It can bring with it a feeling of safety, as well. This isn’t an immediate flag, though, as it’s not unusual to meet someone whose smell you like over another.

Second, smelling them around a season will trigger a fertile cycle—and will until a bonding. If someone already has a mate, or romantic partner, though, this can be easy to miss—as their scent can also trigger a fertile cycle.

Third, they have a very calming influence. Their scent, their voice, their sounds—all of them can help ease their truemate out of panic, rage, etc.

An alternate version of truemates. The biggest difference is that fated mates know each other instantly—whether by first scent or on sight.

bonds addendum

Re-discovered an old omegaverse wip of mine, & the worldbuilding notes to go with it. It’s not as fleshed out as what I have now, but I did find something I liked, had forgotten about, & want to reincorporate:

Once it was common for packs to have an insignia or crest they wore to show their allegiances. In modern times, though, pack crests have mostly faded out, especially as packs are more fluid & flexible now. However, those who want a visible connection, and not just scenting, may sometimes have pack bracelets, or some other small, visual way of expressing unity.

Everyone nests. Nests are generally rebuilt every two weeks or so, to clean the blankets, pillowcases, and nest covers. Scented items may be changed out more frequently, to keep the scent fresh/strong.

There are several different types of nests, with three being most common:

The classic, built on a frame (generally round) or the floor. They’re often surrounded by canopies.

Dens, which are more built somewhere more enclosed—such as a closet or modernized victorian box bed.

Perches, which are built somewhere raised—such as a loft/bunk bed or hammock.

The materials and set up of nests vary. Some prefer soft and blush, others more sturdy. Some want fuzzy, others silky, and others more linen/cotton. I've got a pinterest board with several examples.

(The stereotype is that alphas prefer dens, betas prefer perches, & omegas prefer a classic nest. This is reflected in media, & marketing for the various types.)

Each dynamic can be very territorial over their nest. Entering without first being invited is a good way to get yourself bitten.

Victims of abuse, or who lacked stable lives, may show a lack of interest in nesting, doing only the bare minimum. Others become even more territorial and defensive of their nests, not even allowing pack in. Still yet others may hide their nests. It can take time for their instincts to realize they’re safe.

Omegas become very fussy nesters during pre-heat. Their nest has to be just right, and this can cause frustration, sometimes to the point of tears.

If there’s space enough in the home, a pack will have a special pack nest they’ve built together. These are communal lounging spaces. Pups spend a lot of time there. If there isn’t space enough, the pack leader’s nest will double as the pack nest.

Pups tend to nest with their parents/guardians for the first two or three years of their lives. After that, they generally share a nest with other pups until around ten to twelve, when they develop a desire to have their own space.

If there aren’t enough pups for a pup nest, pups may stay longer with their parents or rotate between nests.

Older packmates may also choose to nest together, especially in times of stress… but also just because.

Pups usually build nests with their parents and/or siblings, to teach them how to do it on their own.

Pups moving into their own nest is something of a coming-of-age event. If funds are available, a big deal is made of picking out and setting up a frame (if applicable), and pack members will all gift pillows, stuffed toys, blankets, etc. Some will be new, others hand-me-downs. The pup then assembles their nest, usually alone, and shows it off. They usually have company the first night, though some want to prove they’re Big and sleep alone. There’s often a bit of an adjustment period, though, and they may end up regularly back in their childhood nests.

Everyone nests. Nests are generally rebuilt every two weeks or so, to clean the blankets, pillowcases, and nest covers. Scented items may be changed out more frequently, to keep the scent fresh/strong.

There are several different types of nests, with three being most common:

The classic, built on a frame (generally round) or the floor. They’re often surrounded by canopies.

Dens, which are more built somewhere more enclosed—such as a closet or modernized victorian box bed.

Perches, which are built somewhere raised—such as a loft/bunk bed or hammock.

The materials and set up of nests vary. Some prefer soft and blush, others more sturdy. Some want fuzzy, others silky, and others more linen/cotton. I've got a pinterest board with several examples.

(The stereotype is that alphas prefer dens, betas prefer perches, & omegas prefer a classic nest. This is reflected in media, & marketing for the various types.)

Each dynamic can be very territorial over their nest. Entering without first being invited is a good way to get yourself bitten.

Victims of abuse, or who lacked stable lives, may show a lack of interest in nesting, doing only the bare minimum. Others become even more territorial and defensive of their nests, not even allowing pack in. Still yet others may hide their nests. It can take time for their instincts to realize they’re safe.

Omegas become very fussy nesters during pre-heat. Their nest has to be just right, and this can cause frustration, sometimes to the point of tears.

If there’s space enough in the home, a pack will have a special pack nest they’ve built together. These are communal lounging spaces. Pups spend a lot of time there. If there isn’t space enough, the pack leader’s nest will double as the pack nest.

Pups tend to nest with their parents/guardians for the first two or three years of their lives. After that, they generally share a nest with other pups until around ten to twelve, when they develop a desire to have their own space.

If there aren’t enough pups for a pup nest, pups may stay longer with their parents or rotate between nests.

Older packmates may also choose to nest together, especially in times of stress… but also just because.

Pups usually build nests with their parents and/or siblings, to teach them how to do it on their own.

Pups moving into their own nest is something of a coming-of-age event. If funds are available, a big deal is made of picking out and setting up a frame (if applicable), and pack members will all gift pillows, stuffed toys, blankets, etc. Some will be new, others hand-me-downs. The pup then assembles their nest, usually alone, and shows it off. They usually have company the first night, though some want to prove they’re Big and sleep alone. There’s often a bit of an adjustment period, though, and they may end up regularly back in their childhood nests.

these lists are non-exhaustive, and i may reblog or edit with additions~

noises

Pack Calls. Meant to attract the attention of pack immediately—whether to alert danger, expression of loneliness or helplessness, or simply to alert to a cycle beginning. (A pup call is the same thing, though younger sounding and harder to ignore.)

Purrs. Usually an expression of happiness or contentment, but they can also be use to self-soothe or comfort. Purring promotes healing. The sound can be made unconsciously or on purpose. An alpha’s purrs tend to be low and rumbling; sometimes almost inaudible, and easier to feel than hear. Bets and omegas have more mid-toned purrs. Pups have loud, rumbly, often uneven purrs.

Growls. In betas and omegas, a growl is a warning. Alphas will growl as a threat, in play, during sex / arousal, and sometimes even when they yawn—and as such, tend to make the noise the most. Pups may also growl in play. Alphas have the deepest growls, followed by omegas. Betas have fairly mid-toned growls. Pups have tiny, high-pitched growls.

Snarls. Much like a growl, but deeper and more threatening. This isn’t just a threat or warning, but often the precursor of a fight. Snarls may also be heard during a fight.

Chuffs. A low huffing noise used as a signal to ‘come here.’ Often used on pups or younger siblings. They’re difficult to ignore from packmates—especially older packmates or parents. Alphas are especially good at chuffing.

Croons. Low, musical sounds meant to comfort and reassure. They’re often used to help lull pups to sleep.

Trills. A high, musical sound that express happiness, joy, excitement. Adult alphas have a harder time making them, and rarely do so, but happy betas, omegas, and pups make them frequently.

Whines. A high pitched expression of sadness or discomfort. These tend to sound uniform among adults, and a little higher in pups. Pup whines, especially before speech, usually indicate hunger, lack of attention, or a need for changing.

Keens. High pitched calls of want or need, though they can also be used to express more acute pain—like grief.

mannerisms

Scruffing. Refers to grabbing the back of the neck, fingers touching the scent glands, and squeezing gently. This triggers a flood of submission hormones, forcibly relaxing the muscles. It can induce drowsiness. This can be comforting when done by a trusted packmate, but terrifying and unpleasant when done by a stranger. The effect lasts longer in pups, or those in their cycle.

Submission bite. Refers to biting the back or side of the neck. Like a scruff, this triggers a flood of submission hormone, though it’s much stronger. A hard enough bite can cause a mild paralysis, the limbs becoming too heavy to move. The bitee is more susceptible to orders given by the biter. In both the case of a scruff and a submission bite, the hormone can be fought, but it’s difficult. Submission bites are typically denote the end of a challenge fight. Submission bites given outside of that are considered a form of assault or abuse, as scruffing is considered a more appropriate way of dealing with any unruly or rebellious behavior. It’s considered unconscionable for an adult to give a submission bite to a pup.

Nipping. A light bite, and a common way to express affection both platonically and romantically. Romantic partners may nip at each other’s necks, ears, jaws, & lips. Platonic packmates may nip pack members shoulders, arms, fingers, or noses.

Scenting. An important part of pack bonding, and a way of expressing, "I'm here, I care about you, I want people to know we're connected even when we're apart." Covered in more detail here.

Claiming bites. Referring to the bite claiming someone as pack or mate. Pack bites are more like nips, and accompanied by licking, while mating bites will draw blood, and leave a scar. Pack and mate bonds are covered in more detail here.

Nuzzling. Rubbing noses is a common way of greeting close pack members. Cheeks may also be nuzzled. Romantic partners will nuzzle shoulders, backs, thighs, the back of the knee, etc. Alphas find it very comforting to have their neck/throat nuzzled.

Forehead touch. Another common greeting between close pack members, though slightly more common in romantic partners.

Head-butting. A playful variation of the forehead touch.

Wrist-brushing. Pressing the wrists together. A gesture of comfort or intimacy. It’s also common to stroke the gland with the thumb—something omegas find especially comforting.

Scent-guarding. Raising the shoulders and/or lowering the chin to block the scent glands, often paired with wrapping the arms around the stomach. An expression of fear, meant to try and block or suppress one’s scent.

Throat-baring. Lifting the chin and showing off the throat is a sign of submission. It may be done out of respect, trust, or fear, or as a way to show that one isn’t a threat. This is considered the best way to approach someone in a feral state.

Teeth-baring. Sometimes this is a warning. Other times it’s a challenge, especially when compared with snapping their teeth or snarling.