Redtail Rise LI

Redd is close by; she'd heard the footfalls, caught the scent. New Snow arrives, too, but Avicus's attention is trained on Masquerade, who begins to rouse.

wha' happened? she questions softly—but perhaps her daughter is too addled to answer. her golden eyes seem far-seeing, clouded.

what had happened? but there's only mystery to Masquerade's fall.

Ancelin has left no doubt as to his intentions.

i will no' allow ihh', Avicus says firmly, straightening and dipping her nose toward her nephew's scent markings in gesture. she meets Augur's gaze again, kind but sure. i will no' be dihh'repeck'ed like dhih'.

as to Masque. . . her heart seizes painfully at thought of Ashlar; surely he'd be the best person to look after her, while the Wealda deals with matters elsewhere. she looks back to Redd—if she's within view; if not, she chuffs in invitation.

we will waih' here un'hil Mack can walk, she decides. perhaps she should summon @Mulherin as well; she knows the boy is close with his older sister.