bold (adj.)

Old English beald (West Saxon), bald (Anglian) "stout-hearted, brave, confident, strong," from Proto-Germanic *balthaz (source also of Old High German bald "bold, swift," in names such as Archibald, Leopold, Theobald).

☀️ With their moms being best friends it's no wonder he and Numskul grew up close, born in the same season. He always saves a thick-marrowed bone or two for when his favourite scout returns home, but the reunions seem few and far between, lately. Like the sun and moon, their orbits rarely seem to overlap these days...

But folk around here look at him with great expectations on their mind. A leader of the hunt, perhaps he'll next be leader of the pack? Smarts, strength, assertiveness - what more could you ask for? Ambition, perhaps. But then again, ambition could be a dangerous thing.

So when Lacuna makes her final journey to the Other Side, everyone expects Balthaz to return as Syndica's new boss. And return he does, to much fanfare. He bows his head in gratitude, then waves a paw for silence. His mate Numskul and his sister Duete take their seats, flanking him. Only the three of them know what's about to come next. A thrill zaps up his spine. Who knew disappointing everyone could be so exciting?

Golden eyes scan the crowd. The sun shines high behind him like a halo. Balthaz takes a deep breath. Last chance to turn back.

"I'd like to introduce you all to the new management."

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