The Heartwood But now it's like the night is taking sides

Indeed, the fox made a wild leap and soon dashed off into the night. Riled, Bronco urged her to come along before speeding after it. Meerkat promptly scrambled after them both, thrilling to the chase even though she quickly fell behind. Despite her relatively slender frame—and certain folk's beliefs to the contrary—she wasn't actually that agile or quick. Sure, she could run fast in a straight line on flat terrain, but as the fox zig-zagged through the dark forest, every single obstacle, twist and turn caused her to fall further and further back.

Soon, she lost sight of the fox and Bronco altogether in the darkness. Meerkat began to slow, panting as she trotted along in their wake. Despite her own inability to contribute directly, she had enjoyed the chase. Her heart pounded in her chest and she grinned, silently wishing her brother success out there in the unseen night.