Otter Creek Falling to pieces

She was glad for the break in conversation. Although she'd never struggled greatly going up and down the plateau path, climbing mountains like this was altogether different. Within minutes her muscles felt strained and her breathing was heavy. Junior soon indicated that they would rest and Saēna, thankful for the opportunity, seated herself heavily on the darkening ledge.

"I'm game," she said after panting for a moment. She squinted back in the direction of the plateau, then shook her head. "I wasn't home very long, so I doubt they'll miss me overnight." It hadn't seem like any of them had even seen her at the gathering, even though she'd been the first to speak up against Peregrine's departure. Osprey Sr. had taken the spotlight on that though, and Saēna had slunk away quietly before hearing the rest of what was said.

"C'mon," she said at length when she got to her paws again, "let's see if we can find shelter. It's been cold as balls lately."