Redtail Rise Deadlatch

Let’s sit then, Masquerade suggested, and talk.

They looked around for a good spot, then motioned for Mulherin to follow them toward the base of a Pacific madrone. The weak sunlight filtered down through its spindly, winding limbs, creating a spiderweb of light and shadow in the grass below. They settled there with a small huff, waiting for their brother to join them.

I’m tired too. The past few weeks have been a whirlwind, haven’t they? I do feel hopeful that everything will settle down now. I mean, it’s sort of my job now to make that happen.

Their lips curved into a small smile. Masquerade was once more the pack’s caretaker, in a much more powerful capacity. They took their duties more seriously than ever, embracing their role as the pack’s peacemaker.

Don’t worry, the power hasn’t gone to my head, Masque quipped, and I haven’t forgotten any of you. I’m Caru again. More than ever, it’s my job to guide you. But with everything that had happened, they had to wonder, Do you think you’re still interested in being a leader yourself someday?