On Top Of The World

Redrum remained fixated on the dual thrones, briefly distracted when his brother, Ripper appeared and sat with him, returning their usual shoulder bump greeting as he fought to maintain his composure. Questions swirled in his head, golden eyes a bit too wide, fur a bit too bristly.

Redrum's heart pounded in his chest as his mother, Medusa, finally stood before the pack and made her announcement. His fiery golden eyes were fixed on her, taking in every word with a mixture of anxiety and apprehension. It was an announcement of his promotion to Heir, but also that Enki would be helping to lead Insomnia from now on. Redrum felt a jolt of surprise. His mother had always been a formidable leader, and now she was entrusting part of that role to Enki so she could focus on him. The weight of responsibility began to settle on his shoulders. Was it his fault? Did she need to sacrifice her time and energy that much? Shame settled deep within the pit of his belly, but he stamped it down and tried to hold his head high.

He glanced at Enki, who offered him a reassuring grin and a wink. The boy felt a rush of gratitude for the support he was being shown, but it was tainted by an uncertainty he couldn’t quite put his finger on. ’So on that note, Red's first task will be to lead Insomnia's next raid!’ This made Redrum’s heart drop. The responsibility of the next raid. He nodded, tail lashing behind him and he sat there, taking in his mother’s words and commands. But the enormity of his new role hit Redrum like a tidal wave, silently he steadied himself. This was his chance to prove himself, to show his mother and the pack that he was ready for the responsibilities of leadership. Medusa continued, speaking on the lost members, which left Redrum feeling a bit more irritation than his mother probably did. He did not like that.

Then, she announced the promotions of his elder sister, his brother, and his friend, Cadaver. Which he was infinitely more pleased about. Redrum could feel the shift in the pack's energy. When Medusa finished, she turned the floor over to Enki, who spoke with the same calm authority, reinforcing the importance of learning and growth.

Finally, it was Redrum's turn to speak. He took a deep breath, stepping forward to stand by his mother and address the pack. “Thank you. Mother.” He began, his voice steady, he was fighting to keep his voice from breaking or halting. “And thank you. Enki. For your. Support. Redrum is honored. to be named heir. Redrum is ready.” His gaze swept over the pack, meeting the eyes of his fellow packmates. “Do your part. For the raid. Give it your all. Redrum will.” With that he fell silent, his head high, a grin on his face like that of his mother’s.