Redtail Rise wildcard

She had wondered if they returned to challenge, to claim this place as their own.  This possibility kept her wary, her stomach tight even as she watched them silently and awaited their words. Masquerade had been Avicus' chosen heir, and despite giving the position over, it was clear her deference had not been true.  Wealda would defend her place, but she had wondered too often these past weeks if Masquerade would not be more fit.  Self-doubt warred with her need to protect stability, and their re-appearance brought all of this back into her immediate thoughts.

She had sought to rely on her sister like no other, but this had been a mistake.  She was glad to see Masquerade well, but she was not glad to see her here.  Not when they so clearly could not co-exist within a pack.  This truth had cut her more deeply than any since Avicus' death, and her presence was a stark reminder of that as well.

She could understand that nature drove Masquerade from her side.  This did nothing to ease the feelings it brought forth.

Why are you here?  She asked, her tone subdued.  She did not need explanations or apologies; Masquerade and Riley's actions were their own, and what was done was done.  If they sought to return, she did not think she could refuse them, though she knew it would likely mean another fracture within them.  Masquerade had left too much of a mark here; Redd had never assumed she could erase that.