Redtail Rise And I felt his blood pour fast and hot,

He half expected chase. There were sounds of stirring, the crunch of leaves — but when he turned back Masque was upon her side, regarding him.

With a flop Riley collapsed atop the leaf pile, sending a flare of earthy scents into the air. From the debris he extracted a broken branch and chewed it, watching Masque as she watched him.

His energy dwindled; the rousing play woke his appetite, but for now the weather was balmy and the sun warm — and this patch of leaves awfully comfortable.