Should've been working on something else, but this came to mind and just did it. Took a little longer than expected as I got lost in what to do at a certain point, but eventually found my way back.

Kind of a rendition of my first illustration with them, this time showing more the maternal intimacy.

--------------------

Nestled within the great hollow of the ancient tree, a knocking of bone of wood sounded from the meeting of Cachusa's crown as she failed to miss the low arc. Still unaware and clumsy with this new form. Bearing the dull ache with clenched teeth, the precious bundle in her lithe arms remained undisturbed. The thick furs of her coat kept Miriam from the cool night air as fever or harrowing dream was upon her dampening brow.

With gentle motions, Cachusa wiped the sweat from the child's brow with the white locks of her head. She had a moment to examine her visage in a stream's waters in which she washed their outer filth free, catching the gaunt features drawn of life. A cadaverous palor from crown to foot, how could this be the majestic form once lost to her people?

Wrestling her wings into the shallow crevice, the Penumbress pulled her child's weight against her bosom and sheltered them under the shadow of her steely feathers. Miriam stirred momentarily, unconsciously pressing into the warmth of her mother's bosom and settled into shivering repose again. Cachusa tucked her nose and lips into the child's wavy curls, inhaling then exhaling a deep sigh.

They were alive; even after losing everything that was important or taken for granted, broken as they were and soon to discover the pieces that remain, it meant more than anything in this very moment.