Redtail Rise Deadlatch

Mulherin dipped too, the two of them both flush with the ground momentarily. But then he sprang toward them with a loud bark. Masque stayed low until he was nearly on top of them, trying to find that sweet spot before he lowered his head toward theirs.

In theory, they would grab him by the throat before his muzzle—and all those fangs!—blocked them. But it depended not only on Masque’s timing but Mulherin’s ability to anticipate what was likely a very predictable move. Masquerade fully anticipated failing, with a hopeful gleam in their goldenrod eyes.