Redtail Rise Savin’ his Pennies for someday

Relic remained motionless, though there was a palpable tension radiating between him and Ancelin. Masquerade looked between the two young men with a slight squint of disapproval and a shake of their head. In-fighting was such a waste. The rise should be united, each member uplifting everyone else in the pack rather than spending time and energy on something so petty and pointless.

Redd stepped forward, recapturing the Caru’s attention. Their neck stiffened as they peered now between their sister and Lilia. There was no sign of enmity or hostility. It occurred to Masque that Redd meant to test the swarthy Bjern’s mettle. She would earn the title by proving herself through a challenge. Masquerade’s tail twitched in approval.

When Augur motioned for the onlookers to make room, Masquerade retreated several steps. They and the three males formed a rough circle around Lilia and Redd: a makeshift cage match. There was no temptation to sit, not with the air crackling with tension and vigor. Masque’s legs remained straight, paws planted, muscles twitching as they waited for the she-wolves to make a move.

It seemed fitting that Lilia should strike first, with Redd there to challenge her. Masque’s spine stiffened as the Bjern lunged forth with a guttural battle cry, looking quite fearsome as she snapped at the hinge of Redd’s jawline, where her jugular pulsed in her neck. Without realizing it, the Caru inhaled sharply and trapped the breath in their chest, confident that Redd would boldly counter such a fierce attack.