Redtail Rise Spirit of Tara

Masque paced herself alongside New Snow, dirtied snout even with the woman’s shoulder. They walked close enough that they occasionally brushed against one another, each small point of contact strengthening the familiarity and bond between the pack mates.

She recognized the terrain as they approached the den where New Snow had whelped a pair of pups late last summer. Masquerade waved her tail approvingly. It had served the mother well last year, so why shouldn’t she use it again this season?

But as they each roamed closer to the lair’s mouth, Masque’s hackles prickled. There was a fresh odor lingering here, not to mention prints in the dirt just outside the den and several scattered piles of droppings. Her muzzle scrunched as she tried to identify the scent, dirt falling loose from her whiskers.

While she was busy assessing spoor, something stirred in the den’s interior. There came a loud chittering and then out barreled a raccoon, its teeth bared as it lunged at New Snow, swiping at her with a mitt full of sharp claws.

Feel free to write the lil’ rascal, of course!