Redtail Rise diamond eyes

As soon as the words slipped off their tongue, Masquerade felt something inside them clench. Their eyes darted to Mul’s face, just hoping they hadn’t worried him with this offhanded remark. They hadn’t meant anything by it. They didn’t know why they’d even said it…

Oh, they said, blinking in surprise at his laughter, I wouldn’t really want to go anywhere. This is the only home I’ve ever known. It’s…

The Caru lapsed into pensive silence for several minutes, their face falling into a stony mask. They thought about how they’d been feeling in the aftermath of Avicus’s disappearance, namely how nearly their whole sense of home had vanished with her. They heard Redd’s voice in their head, reminding them, “This was her home. We are her legacy.”

Catching themself, Masque shook their head and said, I’m sorry, Mul, I got lost in my thoughts. I won’t lie to you; I’ve been struggling. But you and the other pups, you give me a sense of purpose. I care more about you guys than I care about myself, they admitted softly.

But this conversation was getting too heavy for someone so young. Masque flashed their little brother a smile, then prodded him in the ribs with their snout, hoping to distract him with a tickle.

We’re meant to be practicing our prowling skills! they reminded him a little too loudly.