Rising Sun Valley the knife's edge

I’m in the Sunspire. You’re in the Creek.

The reminder stung. Bazi’s ears fanned back, slowly. If she had gone with Ferdie to see Fox, would things have been different? Perhaps Jace’s punishment would have been less severe - he might even have been lauded as a hero for protecting Nightingale and Sky. But it had not gone that way. Jace had stood up for Ferdie. Bazi would have heeded the fiery alpha’s words and driven her den-mate out of the Creek without question. She couldn't help but imagine herself in Sky’s paws, reaching out to touch her friend only to be leaped upon by some demon creature. What he had done was unforgivable, but Jace was a victim of his own kindness - a trait she simultaneously loved and loathed. There had to be a clearly distinguishable line, even if it cut through a few hearts; on this she and Fox agreed. Done was done.

Jace said something conversationally banal, skirting the real issue. Bazi responded with a moment of glassy-eyed silence before she breathed a great, long sigh. ”I wish you hadn't defended him,” the girl stated quietly.