An Archive of Our Own, a project of the
Organization for Transformative Works
“Now! Does everyone have their cargo safely stowed?” Ingo clicked the heavy heels of his boots together, standing sharply at attention as the Sneaslets before him dutifully held up one berry each precisely selected by them for a particular purpose. In unison they answered with a resounding,
Ingo walked the line, inspecting each offering carefully and with a critical eye before taking a deep breath and straightening with a quick tug on his cap.
“Bravo, young ones! I expected nothing else from the children of our Noble Lady Sneasler!” He snapped into position, tipping his hat this time. “Now, protocol and safety checks are complete such that we can board the train to our destination. Remember to be quiet to ensure the comfort of other passengers. ALL ABOARD!”
With another squeak of excitement quickly followed by silent stalking footsteps, the Sneaslets scurried single file up the mountain path, looking back towards Ingo for another approving nod before entering the mouth of their den. Their Warden followed, lowering himself down to sit beside his Ward with her offspring positioned in a perfect semicircle before her.
“Sler…” She purred in amusement, a chuckle in her own way, covering her nose demurely with a set of claws.
“Children, it is time to disencumber. Orderly now, there you go.” One by one the Sneasels placed their selections in the basket beside their nest before clambering over the side for cuddles and a nap. Sneasler rolled her eyes at her strange little Warden but accepted the chin scratches that traveled fluidly behind her ear in that way she liked. “How are you feeling, my Lady? Better I hope?”
“Sneas.” It was like a sigh of disappointment. Ingo understood. Sickdays were suboptimal but necessary sometimes.
“Not to worry. With our expert care, you will be back on the cliffs soon enough!” She hissed just a little, a sound of pain. “Ah, I apologize, Lady. I will endeavor to maintain a lower volume during your convalescence.” Blandly, she waved a claw in his direction, sleepy eyes closing with a low rumble. All forgiven. “Sleep well. I will watch the mountain for a little while.”
