Nova Peak Malice

The stranger’s 180° shift in demeanor caught Masquerade off guard. Their head reared back, though they remained stiff-legged and motionless otherwise. Of course, she was right: no matter how they felt, Masque didn’t actually own this mountain.

I have no interest in following or harming you, they said flatly. I just don’t want you here, they very nearly added, though the inexplicable turn of this woman’s temper told Masquerade this situation could quickly escalate in a way they didn’t want.

Huffing out a breath, they began walking. They treated her just like the rutting moose and gave her a wide berth. Masque didn’t take their eyes off her as they passed in the direction of the rise. She was a wildcard they would hopefully never see again after this.