Redtail Rise On Top of Spaghetti

Feb 1: I’m going to archive this but if you’d like to continue it, I’d be happy to; just revive it and tag me in your next reply! :)

They paused thoughtfully at Ashlar’s question. Avicus hadn’t made any declarations as of yet, though Masque couldn’t help but think of the altercation at the borders last week. Some instinct told them it was more important than ever to avoid unnecessary risks.

I think I’ll just observe today, if that works for you, they replied, beginning to move. Speaking of which, I just came across a dead squirrel a ways outside the territory, near the grotto. It didn’t have any marks on it but it smelled odd. Something told me to avoid eating it.

As they padded along the scent trail, Masque glanced inquisitively at Ashlar’s face, wondering if he might have any explanations or theories about the rodent’s fate. He speculated aloud, though of course the wolves would never know for certain.

Only a short while later, the badger’s scent thickened in Masque’s nose. They exchanged a glance with Ashlar and proceeded with stealth in mind. The trail led the pair to a set, its entrance burrowing into a small slope. There was a spoil heap just below the small hole, evidence of its recent excavation. The Toweard observed all this with eyes and nose.

They then looked around for someplace to hide close by, leading Ashlar to a screen of brush that still afforded them a view of the badger’s lair. Before settling down to wait, Masquerade squatted to empty their bladder, knowing they might have to hold position for a while. They then slung their belly to the earth, their patience awarded more than an hour later when a badger trundled into view.

True to their word, they did not attack, despite several prime opportunities. Masquerade just laid still in the brush, watching it, learning about it, filing away her observations for future hunts.